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Sinful Brides #1
The Rogue's Wager
Lord Robert Dennington, the Marquess of Westfield, has long reveled in the freedom afforded him as the ducal heir. He knows he must someday do right by the Somerset line, but he’s in no hurry to give up his carefree existence.
Helena Banbury is a bookkeeper in a gentleman’s gambling club, adept at analyzing numbers and accounts but helpless for lack of influence. She’s never belonged among the nobility on the gaming hell floors, but neither does she feel completely herself among the men who run the Hell and Sin Club, despite the fact that they are family. The once-illiterate girl from the streets wants more than the gilded walls her protective cage can offer.
When Robert mistakenly enters her chambers one night, Helena is forced out of her predictable life and thrust into the glittering world of Society. Will the charms of the marquess prove more perilous than any danger she ever knew on the streets?
Helena Banbury is a bookkeeper in a gentleman’s gambling club, adept at analyzing numbers and accounts but helpless for lack of influence. She’s never belonged among the nobility on the gaming hell floors, but neither does she feel completely herself among the men who run the Hell and Sin Club, despite the fact that they are family. The once-illiterate girl from the streets wants more than the gilded walls her protective cage can offer.
When Robert mistakenly enters her chambers one night, Helena is forced out of her predictable life and thrust into the glittering world of Society. Will the charms of the marquess prove more perilous than any danger she ever knew on the streets?
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2016
1929 people are currently reading
1816 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
136 books2,557 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 452 reviews
October 6, 2022
4.5 stars. I think this is the first Christi Caldwell book I've actually read—and it was super exciting, because now I have a whole new author's backlist to read!!!! And most of her books have great ratings and the summaries sound totally up my alley, so hooray!! I stumbled upon this book, because I decided to checkout which romance books were available through Kindle Unlimited and the book summary really piqued my interest.
Setting. London, England, 1821-1822
Our Heroine, Helena Banbury (24). Helena lives with her four "brothers" in their hugely successful gambling hall empire, the Hell and Sin Club, where she is responsible for doing the books, due to her tremendous gift with numbers. The brothers' and her backstory are interesting and they are the setting for this series, so I think we'll be getting some really great tortured heroes out of this ::rubs hands excitedly::. Helena is a fascinating contradiction, because she has been exposed to the greatest cruelties in life, was born illegitimate, lived on the street, etc., but now for the last 10+ years she has been completely sheltered within the gaming hell and basically isn't able to go anywhere. Her life is completely controlled and protected by her brothers and she has no real say or independence, so she's an interesting contrast of cynical experienced woman and sheltered curious girl.
Our Hero, Lord Robert Dennington, the Marquess of Westfield (33). Robert is the son of a duke who is a basically good guy, with not much going on in life. His adult life was heavily formed by a horrible betrayal by a woman whom he thought he was in love with, and that really shaped his view of women and station. He sees most people as wanting something from him and is always wary and suspicious that people want him for his title and position, rather than himself. In many ways, he's a bit blah really, because he didn't really have much that he was doing with his life and it kind of seems like he was hung up on something that happened 12 years ago ... so when is he going to get over it already??
But I quickly fell in love with Robert and how much he was able to care for Helena; I also appreciated his self-awareness in terms of realizing that he should have been more aware of what was going on in his family and he is increasingly aware of how much his life was privileged and sheltered compared to all that Helena had to go through. I mean, he is just DREAMY and his feelings, actions, and words to Helena are lovely and very sigh-worthy.
Thoughts. I really loved both the main characters. Helena is super strong and one easily falls in love with her and feels for her; notable for its uniqueness is that she has a scar on her face and scars on her body. And think I've already waxed poetically enough about Robert lol.
Given these two characters, another author could easily have thrown in some Big Misunderstandings, and I was SO grateful that Caldwell didn't and that for the most part, the characters are pretty open and honest with one another. The secondary characters are all well-rounded and interesting and it's always good when you're able to enjoy more than just the main characters. The dynamic between Helena and her "family" was SUPER fascinating; she and the boys have been through a lot together, though a lot of it is still shrouded in mystery.
Her brother who is the only one that is actually a brother by blood, Ryker, is the hero of the next story, which is surprising, because he is TOUGH; I mean ... wow. He seems impenetrable. More so than any other hero I think I've ever read, so it will be very interesting to see how Caldwell pulls this off. And given this extreme, I would have thought she would maybe leave him till last, like with Balogh's Bedwyns and other series that I can't think of off the top of my head right now lolol.
Series. This is the first in a new series, though it comes right after the novella Tempted by a Lady's Smile , which is the fourth and last book in Caldwell's Lords of Honor series.
Excerpt. One of my favs:
Caldwell's Sinful Brides Series
Book 1 — The Rogue's Wager (4.5 stars)
Book 2 — The Scoundrel's Honor (4 stars)
Book 3 — The Lady's Guard (4-4.5 stars)
Book 4 — The Heiress's Deception (4 stars)
Caldwell's Wicked Wallflowers Series
Book 1 — The Hellion (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Vixen (4.5 stars)
Book 3 — The Governess (TBR)
Book 4 — The Bluestocking (4.5 stars)
Book 5 — The Spitfire (TBR)
Other Caldwell Books I've Loved (and Enjoyed Out of Order)
The Lady Who Loved Him (The Brethren, #2) — 4.5 stars
Tempted by a Lady's Smile (Lords of Honor, #4) — 4 stars
To Tempt a Scoundrel (The Heart of a Duke, #15) — 4 stars
Setting. London, England, 1821-1822
Our Heroine, Helena Banbury (24). Helena lives with her four "brothers" in their hugely successful gambling hall empire, the Hell and Sin Club, where she is responsible for doing the books, due to her tremendous gift with numbers. The brothers' and her backstory are interesting and they are the setting for this series, so I think we'll be getting some really great tortured heroes out of this ::rubs hands excitedly::. Helena is a fascinating contradiction, because she has been exposed to the greatest cruelties in life, was born illegitimate, lived on the street, etc., but now for the last 10+ years she has been completely sheltered within the gaming hell and basically isn't able to go anywhere. Her life is completely controlled and protected by her brothers and she has no real say or independence, so she's an interesting contrast of cynical experienced woman and sheltered curious girl.
Our Hero, Lord Robert Dennington, the Marquess of Westfield (33). Robert is the son of a duke who is a basically good guy, with not much going on in life. His adult life was heavily formed by a horrible betrayal by a woman whom he thought he was in love with, and that really shaped his view of women and station. He sees most people as wanting something from him and is always wary and suspicious that people want him for his title and position, rather than himself. In many ways, he's a bit blah really, because he didn't really have much that he was doing with his life and it kind of seems like he was hung up on something that happened 12 years ago ... so when is he going to get over it already??
But I quickly fell in love with Robert and how much he was able to care for Helena; I also appreciated his self-awareness in terms of realizing that he should have been more aware of what was going on in his family and he is increasingly aware of how much his life was privileged and sheltered compared to all that Helena had to go through. I mean, he is just DREAMY and his feelings, actions, and words to Helena are lovely and very sigh-worthy.
Thoughts. I really loved both the main characters. Helena is super strong and one easily falls in love with her and feels for her; notable for its uniqueness is that she has a scar on her face and scars on her body. And think I've already waxed poetically enough about Robert lol.
Given these two characters, another author could easily have thrown in some Big Misunderstandings, and I was SO grateful that Caldwell didn't and that for the most part, the characters are pretty open and honest with one another. The secondary characters are all well-rounded and interesting and it's always good when you're able to enjoy more than just the main characters. The dynamic between Helena and her "family" was SUPER fascinating; she and the boys have been through a lot together, though a lot of it is still shrouded in mystery.
Her brother who is the only one that is actually a brother by blood, Ryker, is the hero of the next story, which is surprising, because he is TOUGH; I mean ... wow. He seems impenetrable. More so than any other hero I think I've ever read, so it will be very interesting to see how Caldwell pulls this off. And given this extreme, I would have thought she would maybe leave him till last, like with Balogh's Bedwyns and other series that I can't think of off the top of my head right now lolol.
Series. This is the first in a new series, though it comes right after the novella Tempted by a Lady's Smile , which is the fourth and last book in Caldwell's Lords of Honor series.
Excerpt. One of my favs:
Understanding dawned.Bottom Line. READ!!! Seriously, I have already added it to my buy-in-paper-form list, because I know I'll want to reread in the future. I can't wait to read more Caldwell books and am super excited to have finally started in on this author's books; I've obviously seen her around a lot and I even own a couple of her books, but just never got around to reading them. Well: better late than never!!
The lady believed he didn’t wish to dance with her. He ran his gaze over her sharp features, and the mark upon her cheek. The world was on the whole a merciless place. What was that world to a woman who wore scars upon her skin, and called a gaming hell home? “You misunderstand, Helena.”
He may as well have presented her an unsolvable word riddle for the befuddlement in her expression. “I do?”
Something tugged at his heart, an organ he’d long believed incapable of feeling anything for anyone beyond his family. “Quite the opposite, love,” he murmured. “I am looking forward to the opportunity to properly . . . touch you.”
As her eyes formed round moons, and her breath hitched noisily, another surge of masculine triumph gripped him. For her flippant words, desire fairly seeped from her tall, lithe frame. Then all hint of passion receded. She squinted up at him. “Are you making light of me?” she demanded.
“I’ve well learned the perils in crossing you, madam,” he assured her with a dry twist of his lips. Some of the tautness left her narrow shoulders and as she held his gaze, something passed between them. Something indefinable. Some peculiar connection that came in mention of that first exchange that had temporarily changed the course of her life.
Caldwell's Sinful Brides Series
Book 1 — The Rogue's Wager (4.5 stars)
Book 2 — The Scoundrel's Honor (4 stars)
Book 3 — The Lady's Guard (4-4.5 stars)
Book 4 — The Heiress's Deception (4 stars)
Caldwell's Wicked Wallflowers Series
Book 1 — The Hellion (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Vixen (4.5 stars)
Book 3 — The Governess (TBR)
Book 4 — The Bluestocking (4.5 stars)
Book 5 — The Spitfire (TBR)
Other Caldwell Books I've Loved (and Enjoyed Out of Order)
The Lady Who Loved Him (The Brethren, #2) — 4.5 stars
Tempted by a Lady's Smile (Lords of Honor, #4) — 4 stars
To Tempt a Scoundrel (The Heart of a Duke, #15) — 4 stars
June 5, 2017
I didn't really enjoy this one. It'll be easier just to list the reasons. (I do have to be fair and say that I was recently on a streak with some really wonderful historical romances, so I'm reading with some high standards right now.)
1). The H was an idiot. Why can't characters have normal responses to traumatic events? Why must a man betrayed by the woman he loved spend his next twelve years as a rake? Ugh. That's not really a normal reaction. And he didn't decide that he needed to change for a good while. He made an arrangement for a tryst with OW after he met the h. Plus too much inner monologue did not make me like him. I didn't need to hear about his other lovers and such. No thanks.
2) The h was a hormonal mess. It was honestly ridiculous. She would chide herself for having wanton thoughts about the H and then go right back to having them.
3) The near insta love was unconvincing. Plus the H claimed that he's always wanted the h? Then why was he hooking up with a widow after meeting the h? Ugh. Like I said. Unconvincing.
4) The language was modern and the writing needed another edit as well.
5) Too much inner monologue, not enough showing through action or dialogue. Neither MC was all the developed beneath the veneer of traumatic pasts.
6) The ending was too dramatic and then sappy.
1). The H was an idiot. Why can't characters have normal responses to traumatic events? Why must a man betrayed by the woman he loved spend his next twelve years as a rake? Ugh. That's not really a normal reaction. And he didn't decide that he needed to change for a good while. He made an arrangement for a tryst with OW after he met the h. Plus too much inner monologue did not make me like him. I didn't need to hear about his other lovers and such. No thanks.
2) The h was a hormonal mess. It was honestly ridiculous. She would chide herself for having wanton thoughts about the H and then go right back to having them.
3) The near insta love was unconvincing. Plus the H claimed that he's always wanted the h? Then why was he hooking up with a widow after meeting the h? Ugh. Like I said. Unconvincing.
4) The language was modern and the writing needed another edit as well.
5) Too much inner monologue, not enough showing through action or dialogue. Neither MC was all the developed beneath the veneer of traumatic pasts.
6) The ending was too dramatic and then sappy.
did-not-finish
January 6, 2024DNF 10%
The premise of this book is stupid, improbable and anachronistic but also incredibly boring.
The premise of this book is stupid, improbable and anachronistic but also incredibly boring.
February 6, 2017
'The Rogue's Wager' 'The Rogue's Wager' by Christi Caldwell is book one in the new series "Sinful Brides. This is the story of Lord Robert Dennington, the Marquess of Westfield and Helena Banbury. Robert when he was younger thought he fell in love and was going to marry the woman who worked for his family. But his heartless Grandfather opened his eyes to that woman. From then on Robert was harden to women and changed to be more of a Rogue. Now in the present time his Grandfather is gone and his father is trying to bring Robert back to the man he used to be. Helena was living on the streets as a pick pocket and was abused. It left her with physical and mental scars. But her 'brothers' on the streets took her in and started to keep her safe and isolated from other people. Now in the present day she is wanting to get some freedom and try to overcome some of her past. On an accidentally meeting when Robert was pretty drunk he ended up in Helena room. Can these two overcome that past that changed both of their lives to more forward to a happy ending? This was such a great story that I can't wait to read about the other characters to come in other of Ms. Caldwell's books."My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
November 28, 2018
4 stars - Historical Romance
I really liked this one!
I really liked this one!
November 6, 2016
Very disappointed by this one. What started off as an interesting premise (a lord come upon financial troubles chances upon a street-wise bookkeeper working at a gambling hell) slowly deteriorated into a complete farce. A combination of average writing and ineffective editing is probably to blame, but mostly I just wanted the author (Christ Caldwell) to get out of her character's heads and let their actions do the talking. But, based on an extremely convoluted scene towards the end in which one character is shot (still no idea how that even came about) I suspect that Christi is actually incapable of writing action sequences.
And to top it off, the part I found most compelling about the story (the dukes finances) is never even resolved. I wanted to see Helena go through the finances and uncover a dastardly plot. Perhaps she has to work on the books in secret because their lives are at risk. Maybe she decides to infiltrate 'Society' to find out what's really going on?
There was so much potential here! And then it's all ruined by the meandering thoughts of the main characters, who just seem to keep going in circles around the same 3 points. The author didn't give her characters good reasons for their choices, and consequently those characters seemed a bit stupid.
So no, I can't recommend this one, and don't think I'll be bothering with anything else by the author. I can't even recommend it for the sexy scenes, since they were decidedly simplistic (a bit of nub-rubbing and thrusting until there was blissful floating).
Trust me, you can do better.
And to top it off, the part I found most compelling about the story (the dukes finances) is never even resolved. I wanted to see Helena go through the finances and uncover a dastardly plot. Perhaps she has to work on the books in secret because their lives are at risk. Maybe she decides to infiltrate 'Society' to find out what's really going on?
There was so much potential here! And then it's all ruined by the meandering thoughts of the main characters, who just seem to keep going in circles around the same 3 points. The author didn't give her characters good reasons for their choices, and consequently those characters seemed a bit stupid.
So no, I can't recommend this one, and don't think I'll be bothering with anything else by the author. I can't even recommend it for the sexy scenes, since they were decidedly simplistic (a bit of nub-rubbing and thrusting until there was blissful floating).
Trust me, you can do better.
no-way-jose
June 3, 2025No rating, DNF too early.
Ew. I can't even imagine walking in to my grandfathers library and witnessing the scene that he walked in on... (no spoilers, but you will know what I mean once you start the beginning of the book)
I only started to read this book so that I could better understand and be ready to read the second book in the series. After a few chapters, I bailed. I'll take my chances on reading the second book blindly...
I just did not like the characters at all. The hero seemed like a big baby, moping around for 12 years after getting his heart broken. Come on! Then too much rehashing of information, esp. how manipulative the grandfather had been, etc. Then the St Giles gangsta villains seemed like they were gonna be over-the-top brutal.... Just not what I am looking for.
Ew. I can't even imagine walking in to my grandfathers library and witnessing the scene that he walked in on... (no spoilers, but you will know what I mean once you start the beginning of the book)
I only started to read this book so that I could better understand and be ready to read the second book in the series. After a few chapters, I bailed. I'll take my chances on reading the second book blindly...
I just did not like the characters at all. The hero seemed like a big baby, moping around for 12 years after getting his heart broken. Come on! Then too much rehashing of information, esp. how manipulative the grandfather had been, etc. Then the St Giles gangsta villains seemed like they were gonna be over-the-top brutal.... Just not what I am looking for.
February 24, 2017
The Rogue's Wager is a fast paced story. Not to much realism but I did like both H/H Helena Bansbury the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Wilkinson and Robert Dennington the Marquess of Westfield heir to his father the Duke Somerset. Both the H/H have had traumatic events take place in there lives especially Helena, she has scars on her face and hands to prove the physical abuse she suffer as a child. Roberts pain came at the hands of his grandfather who has sex with the women he was going to elope with. He was young and naïve. This two meet in a gaming Hell owed by Helen's brothers. I liked most aspects of the story. It just took way to long for this couple to really come together and to overcome there personal misconceptions of people. I also, got tired of hearing how scared Helena was. I almost felt at times that Robert was falling in love with a tall, unattractive, scared Helena because she was safe and not the usual beautiful petite young women of the Ton. I am not quite sure I like this perspective. However, The Rogue's Wager is an excellent additions to the Sinful Bride series!! I do Recommend reading it if you like HR.
RE READ: 2/24/17
ARC Provided by NetGally for a Honest Review
RE READ: 2/24/17
ARC Provided by NetGally for a Honest Review
September 12, 2016
I've read some amazing books. I've been carried away by all of Christi Caldwell's previous stories, fell in love with her characters and am always craving more. This book, this story is different. This story is better. The best book of 2016. One of the best books of all time.
When you read the prologue you will be left in shock. You will be left thinking, "Holy Wow, did that just happen? Did I just read that?" You'll be left desperate to read every word on every page because that prologue starts with a BOOM!!
The Rogue's Wager is dark but llumious. It is delicate and fragile but at the same time it is sturdy and strong. It's descriptive and inviting. Enrapturing, engaging and fulfillilling.
Helena, the heroine is a duke's by blow who grew up begging, stealing and doing whatever she needed to do to survive. She has been tortured and abused by an evil man then rescued, guarded and protected by her brother. Now her life is about to change. After breaking the rules her brother made for her protection, she goes to stay with her father, the Duke. She doesn't want to be there but she is. She wants to do her time then return to her life. With every thing that Helena has survived, she doesn't feel defeated. She is confident and assured. She has accepted who she is and has a calming sense of herself. Don't get me wrong, she has barriers, fears and sadness with in but she doesn't let them control her or dictate her choices. She is scarred and so beautiful.
Robert, the hero is the son and heir of a duke. He grew up in a home full of love with his parents. He has a sense of equality between nobles and servants. He sees every one as human rather than his lessers. Even after his joy and innocences is destroyed by his cold, heartless grandfather, Robert's heart yearns for love but he has learned to lock it way due to the betrayals of his family. He has resolved to marry for duty and not let emotion become involved. As broken as his heart is, as closed off as he wants to be and wants others to be, he can't help but see more in others. He can't help see beyond the titles, the money, the flash of the ton.
When Helena and Robert's worlds collide, the earth quakes, the air changes and electricity ripples. The realities they have accepted for themselves are ripped open and raw. They get a chance to see through their pasts, share their experiences and share themselves in a way neither ever thought possible.
This story is stunning, heartbreaking, revitalizing, refreshing, accepting and so much more than the reader would ever expect. As I said above, the prologue will tear you up and snag you in which leads to chapter after of chapter of stunning seduction. Christi seduces your mind, your heart and your emotions. She leads you on a merry chase, builds up your anticipation, then blows your mind with the finalization. You'll be saying (expletive needed) and will be left emotionally and mentally satisfied in a way never have been before.
I am thrilled and super excited for the next part of this fantastic new series.
When you read the prologue you will be left in shock. You will be left thinking, "Holy Wow, did that just happen? Did I just read that?" You'll be left desperate to read every word on every page because that prologue starts with a BOOM!!
The Rogue's Wager is dark but llumious. It is delicate and fragile but at the same time it is sturdy and strong. It's descriptive and inviting. Enrapturing, engaging and fulfillilling.
Helena, the heroine is a duke's by blow who grew up begging, stealing and doing whatever she needed to do to survive. She has been tortured and abused by an evil man then rescued, guarded and protected by her brother. Now her life is about to change. After breaking the rules her brother made for her protection, she goes to stay with her father, the Duke. She doesn't want to be there but she is. She wants to do her time then return to her life. With every thing that Helena has survived, she doesn't feel defeated. She is confident and assured. She has accepted who she is and has a calming sense of herself. Don't get me wrong, she has barriers, fears and sadness with in but she doesn't let them control her or dictate her choices. She is scarred and so beautiful.
Robert, the hero is the son and heir of a duke. He grew up in a home full of love with his parents. He has a sense of equality between nobles and servants. He sees every one as human rather than his lessers. Even after his joy and innocences is destroyed by his cold, heartless grandfather, Robert's heart yearns for love but he has learned to lock it way due to the betrayals of his family. He has resolved to marry for duty and not let emotion become involved. As broken as his heart is, as closed off as he wants to be and wants others to be, he can't help but see more in others. He can't help see beyond the titles, the money, the flash of the ton.
When Helena and Robert's worlds collide, the earth quakes, the air changes and electricity ripples. The realities they have accepted for themselves are ripped open and raw. They get a chance to see through their pasts, share their experiences and share themselves in a way neither ever thought possible.
This story is stunning, heartbreaking, revitalizing, refreshing, accepting and so much more than the reader would ever expect. As I said above, the prologue will tear you up and snag you in which leads to chapter after of chapter of stunning seduction. Christi seduces your mind, your heart and your emotions. She leads you on a merry chase, builds up your anticipation, then blows your mind with the finalization. You'll be saying (expletive needed) and will be left emotionally and mentally satisfied in a way never have been before.
I am thrilled and super excited for the next part of this fantastic new series.
June 28, 2019
3.75 STARS
Almost dropped it during the first half, but it pulled me in in the end. Looking forward to continuing the series!
Almost dropped it during the first half, but it pulled me in in the end. Looking forward to continuing the series!
October 25, 2016
Author Christi Caldwell's Montlake debut, THE ROGUE'S WAGER (Sinful Brides Book 1), is a shining example of brilliance encompassed in a book. There is simply no other way to describe this work of art.
Lord Robert Dennington is a cynic when it comes to women and relationships. At the impressionable age of 21 he walked in on the fiancée he thought he loved, in a very compromising position with his own grandfather. That defining moment altered Robert from the young man in love to the rogue who keeps everyone at arm's length. Robert knows that someday he will have to do right buy his title of Marquess of Westfield and marry to secure the next generation, but he is determined that the woman he chooses be interested only in his title. Until that time however, he will do as he pleases, and in excess.
Helena Banbury, a bookkeeper in a gentleman's club, is a Miss of dubious beginnings and a savant when it comes to numbers. Her job as her "brothers" club's bookkeeper keeps her busy and well away from the public... that is until the night when a very soused Robert Dennington wanders into the private area of the Hell and Sin club and wakes up on on the wrong side of town and in the bedroom of Helena Banbury. The plot thickens when Helena's brother, upon discovering his sister had the Marquis in her abode,sends her to live with her father in town. Helena is an unwanted reminder of her father's infidelity to his wife and is treated with disdain by the woman. Helena however, has the determination of steel, for even though she would much rather be back at the Hell & Sin Club, she won't let anyone make her feel less than she is.
Although from two different worlds, Robert and Helena's acquaintance steadily becomes a friendship and much more. Robert's trust issues are at the forefront and Helena's abusive childhood and its lingering effects make for one of the most amazing and intense love stories to date. Not a read for the faint of heart, A ROGUE'S WAGER by the prolific Christi Caldwell is the journey of a lifetime and a veritable roller coaster of emotion. Christi Caldwell never ceases to hold this reader well within her grasp with every golden tale spun. This first in the new SINFUL BRIDES series is a winner and I eagerly await the next one! Bravo Miss Caldwell...
Lord Robert Dennington is a cynic when it comes to women and relationships. At the impressionable age of 21 he walked in on the fiancée he thought he loved, in a very compromising position with his own grandfather. That defining moment altered Robert from the young man in love to the rogue who keeps everyone at arm's length. Robert knows that someday he will have to do right buy his title of Marquess of Westfield and marry to secure the next generation, but he is determined that the woman he chooses be interested only in his title. Until that time however, he will do as he pleases, and in excess.
Helena Banbury, a bookkeeper in a gentleman's club, is a Miss of dubious beginnings and a savant when it comes to numbers. Her job as her "brothers" club's bookkeeper keeps her busy and well away from the public... that is until the night when a very soused Robert Dennington wanders into the private area of the Hell and Sin club and wakes up on on the wrong side of town and in the bedroom of Helena Banbury. The plot thickens when Helena's brother, upon discovering his sister had the Marquis in her abode,sends her to live with her father in town. Helena is an unwanted reminder of her father's infidelity to his wife and is treated with disdain by the woman. Helena however, has the determination of steel, for even though she would much rather be back at the Hell & Sin Club, she won't let anyone make her feel less than she is.
Although from two different worlds, Robert and Helena's acquaintance steadily becomes a friendship and much more. Robert's trust issues are at the forefront and Helena's abusive childhood and its lingering effects make for one of the most amazing and intense love stories to date. Not a read for the faint of heart, A ROGUE'S WAGER by the prolific Christi Caldwell is the journey of a lifetime and a veritable roller coaster of emotion. Christi Caldwell never ceases to hold this reader well within her grasp with every golden tale spun. This first in the new SINFUL BRIDES series is a winner and I eagerly await the next one! Bravo Miss Caldwell...
February 7, 2018
The Rogue's Wager a moderate paced story of Helena Bansbury the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Wilkinson and Robert Dennington the Marquess of Westfield heir to his father the Duke Somerset.
Both the H/H have had some sort of traumatic episode take place in their lives but none more that Helena who grew up in the streets of St. Giles before being rescued by her brother Ryker Black. A woman with visible scars on her face, hands and back to prove the physical abuse she suffered as a child at the hands of her brothers worst enemy. Robert’s pain came at the hands of his grandfather who had sex with the women he was going to elope. She was well below his station but being young and naïve, he didn’t care. The two meet Hell and Sin gaming club owned by Helen's brothers and became attracted to each other when she was sent to live with her father, the Duke of Wilkinson. He had no hang ups on station, however she placed more on it…above love until Robert breaks down her wall. It shows the heroines venture from the ugly streets of St. Giles into the world of the Ton. She is strong and he non-discriminatory. The characters are human, real and heartfelt individuals.
What I liked about the story?
It was a very good story that dispelled that sometimes station doesn’t matter where love is involved.
What I didn’t like about the story?
It took too long for the H/H to come together and overcome misconceptions of people. It was too much emphasis placed on how much was afraid of things even though she stood up to her brothers and those that worked for him. She was a tall, unattractive, petite woman that managed to capture the love of her Marquess.
A very nice novel by Christi Caldwell and narration by Tim Campbell kept me captivated on every word. I enjoyed the first book of the Sinful Brides series from beginning to end… it did not disappoint.
4.5 Stars
Both the H/H have had some sort of traumatic episode take place in their lives but none more that Helena who grew up in the streets of St. Giles before being rescued by her brother Ryker Black. A woman with visible scars on her face, hands and back to prove the physical abuse she suffered as a child at the hands of her brothers worst enemy. Robert’s pain came at the hands of his grandfather who had sex with the women he was going to elope. She was well below his station but being young and naïve, he didn’t care. The two meet Hell and Sin gaming club owned by Helen's brothers and became attracted to each other when she was sent to live with her father, the Duke of Wilkinson. He had no hang ups on station, however she placed more on it…above love until Robert breaks down her wall. It shows the heroines venture from the ugly streets of St. Giles into the world of the Ton. She is strong and he non-discriminatory. The characters are human, real and heartfelt individuals.
What I liked about the story?
It was a very good story that dispelled that sometimes station doesn’t matter where love is involved.
What I didn’t like about the story?
It took too long for the H/H to come together and overcome misconceptions of people. It was too much emphasis placed on how much was afraid of things even though she stood up to her brothers and those that worked for him. She was a tall, unattractive, petite woman that managed to capture the love of her Marquess.
A very nice novel by Christi Caldwell and narration by Tim Campbell kept me captivated on every word. I enjoyed the first book of the Sinful Brides series from beginning to end… it did not disappoint.
4.5 Stars
November 14, 2016
Can someone please tell me how I have never read any books from this author prior to "The Rogues Wager"?
Well I am no longer blind to her writing and look forward to reading more. Ms.Caldwell writes a great historical romance.
Robert Dennington, the Marquess of Westfield dared to love once and came out the other side, heartbroken and hardened he is perfectly happy not to feel that affectation any longer, an occasional mistress, and a few seductive widows meet his needs now, of course eventually he will have to pick an appropriate lady and have an heir for the title , but when he is ready and no sooner.
Especially since his father recently held a house party at their country estate trying to match himself and sister off under the guise that it was his fondest whish to see them settled before he died, which he claimed he was.now days after returning it is the anniversary of the day his heart was broke for the first and last time and he intends to pass his time at Club Sin a hell in St.Giles.
Of course not until the Duke finishes revealing the real reason he wishes he and his sister to make good matches; the dukedom is almost broke.
Helena Banbury, bookkeeper and sister to the owner of Club Sin for nearly twenty years is finding herself feeling trapped. She knows it is only her brothers protecting her , her brother rescued her from Diggory, when he had her at six out pickpocketing and he rescued her from the physical abuse suffered at his hands after her mother passed away. However, she is finding his rules confining, he will not allow her onto the gaming flood as to get a better feel of use of liquefied and foods she is expected to keep account me and give supply recommendations upon.What is a women to do, a bookkeeper , we'll sneak on the floor and hope you don't get caught; first rule broken.carefully sneaking around the floor she finds herself enraptured, even though she knows better , with a Lord, blond hair blue eyes, eyes that lock on hers causing her heart to flutter and her breath to quicken; but she knows better and quickly leaves for her room on their private floor.
Hours later her sleep is disturbed by a very drunk, very handsome Lord, the very same one whom caught her attention earlier in the night ; getting him off their floor before any of her brothers or his men see him is priority, she should not care but she does.
Helena's life is about to get more exciting, for when she awakes in the morning, she has overslept and finds herself not alone , but with that very same drunk Lord from the night before, seems she forgot to lock her door before heading back to bed.
Robert awakes to find the women from last night in his bed and sorry he can not remember what happened, but more than willing to have a repeat performance, that is until a dagger is drawn on him.. Robert leaves Helena's room and the hell. But Helena's day is about to get worse, she is summoned by her brother , who asks her why she was so late to their morning meeting, she lies , and yet another rule broken, unaware her brother knows about Robert or the fact that he sees her continued questioning and now her lying as a reason to send her away , but he does.
Her brother has called upon her father, the Duke of Weatherly , the very man who abandoned them and their mother years ago and she is being sent off to his home innMayfair for the next three months and then if at the time she does not still wish to stay as a member of the ton , may she return home .
Dreading her time in Mayfair and attending ton balls and functions, but seeing Lord Robert Dennington again,,gives her and idea, he owes her for getting her sent away from her home and the independence she did have. Helena gets Robert to agree to pay curt to her while she is in Mayfair so as to keep away any suitors who would seek her out just for the dowry her father has attached to her; so she can return home .
Robert willing agrees , especially since he finds this women captivating, he has not been able to get her out of his mind since he first met her. These two from different worlds find themselves trying to resist falling in love, but are failing miserably at it.
Can an independent women from St Giles and a disenchanted with love Marquess, find a happy ending?
Arc Graciuosly supplied via Netgalley for an honest review!
Well I am no longer blind to her writing and look forward to reading more. Ms.Caldwell writes a great historical romance.
Robert Dennington, the Marquess of Westfield dared to love once and came out the other side, heartbroken and hardened he is perfectly happy not to feel that affectation any longer, an occasional mistress, and a few seductive widows meet his needs now, of course eventually he will have to pick an appropriate lady and have an heir for the title , but when he is ready and no sooner.
Especially since his father recently held a house party at their country estate trying to match himself and sister off under the guise that it was his fondest whish to see them settled before he died, which he claimed he was.now days after returning it is the anniversary of the day his heart was broke for the first and last time and he intends to pass his time at Club Sin a hell in St.Giles.
Of course not until the Duke finishes revealing the real reason he wishes he and his sister to make good matches; the dukedom is almost broke.
Helena Banbury, bookkeeper and sister to the owner of Club Sin for nearly twenty years is finding herself feeling trapped. She knows it is only her brothers protecting her , her brother rescued her from Diggory, when he had her at six out pickpocketing and he rescued her from the physical abuse suffered at his hands after her mother passed away. However, she is finding his rules confining, he will not allow her onto the gaming flood as to get a better feel of use of liquefied and foods she is expected to keep account me and give supply recommendations upon.What is a women to do, a bookkeeper , we'll sneak on the floor and hope you don't get caught; first rule broken.carefully sneaking around the floor she finds herself enraptured, even though she knows better , with a Lord, blond hair blue eyes, eyes that lock on hers causing her heart to flutter and her breath to quicken; but she knows better and quickly leaves for her room on their private floor.
Hours later her sleep is disturbed by a very drunk, very handsome Lord, the very same one whom caught her attention earlier in the night ; getting him off their floor before any of her brothers or his men see him is priority, she should not care but she does.
Helena's life is about to get more exciting, for when she awakes in the morning, she has overslept and finds herself not alone , but with that very same drunk Lord from the night before, seems she forgot to lock her door before heading back to bed.
Robert awakes to find the women from last night in his bed and sorry he can not remember what happened, but more than willing to have a repeat performance, that is until a dagger is drawn on him.. Robert leaves Helena's room and the hell. But Helena's day is about to get worse, she is summoned by her brother , who asks her why she was so late to their morning meeting, she lies , and yet another rule broken, unaware her brother knows about Robert or the fact that he sees her continued questioning and now her lying as a reason to send her away , but he does.
Her brother has called upon her father, the Duke of Weatherly , the very man who abandoned them and their mother years ago and she is being sent off to his home innMayfair for the next three months and then if at the time she does not still wish to stay as a member of the ton , may she return home .
Dreading her time in Mayfair and attending ton balls and functions, but seeing Lord Robert Dennington again,,gives her and idea, he owes her for getting her sent away from her home and the independence she did have. Helena gets Robert to agree to pay curt to her while she is in Mayfair so as to keep away any suitors who would seek her out just for the dowry her father has attached to her; so she can return home .
Robert willing agrees , especially since he finds this women captivating, he has not been able to get her out of his mind since he first met her. These two from different worlds find themselves trying to resist falling in love, but are failing miserably at it.
Can an independent women from St Giles and a disenchanted with love Marquess, find a happy ending?
Arc Graciuosly supplied via Netgalley for an honest review!
January 21, 2018
This is the first book in the "Sinful Brides" series, and the first book I've read by this author.
I really enjoyed the authors writing and voice.
The characters in this book were far from perfect. In fact, I would describe them as diamonds in the rough.
They were smart, funny, charming and each trying to figure out who they really are in the world they live in.
I really enjoyed this story, and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I really enjoyed the authors writing and voice.
The characters in this book were far from perfect. In fact, I would describe them as diamonds in the rough.
They were smart, funny, charming and each trying to figure out who they really are in the world they live in.
I really enjoyed this story, and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
October 30, 2016
Pretty good read. I really enjoyed Helena. Robert wasn't too bad either, but it was our heroine who pulled me into the story and didn't let me go.
Read
February 4, 2023rtc
October 2, 2016
Helena is a young woman who loves numbers. She lives a cloistered life as bookkeeper of her brother's gambling hell. However, after many years of this life, she is beginning to feel restless right around the same time as a former bad guy has returned to the scene. Robert is a Duke's son who was betrayed in love when young and lived a rogue's life ever since. His father has recently been after him to marry, but he still feels sorry for himself over what happened 10+ years ago. When he goes out to drown his sorrows one night, he ends up in Helena's quarters. She doesn't welcome him, but doesn't reveal him either. I guess she's taken by his good looks and her need for a more interesting life.
This ends with Helena being "sent away;" more to another world than very far. She doesn't fit in this new world, but Robert finds he can more readily spend time with her there. He hates secrets in a paramour, even a fake one, but is determined to find Helena's out. Of course there is also some drama related to her past that had to rear its ugly head as well. I wasn't at all surprised at the unveiling of the hidden villain, however.
I wished that Helena's relationship with her various "brothers" had been more developed. As it was, all we saw were a handful of short scenes that didn't illustrate the depth of the feelings she states they have for each other. I also didn't understand how Black had so much control over everyone or why he was so cold to her while claiming he was doing what was best for her. The entire "very close" family felt like a bunch of teammates who were pretty new to each other and mostly supported each other because they had the same ultimate goals. I didn't get a feel for deep history and affection.
The romantic element was okay, but not great. There was attraction, and the two spent some time together getting to know each other and surprising one another. However, the physical aspect moved far too quickly, and I didn't buy Helena's sudden throwing caution to the wind when she was with Robert. Overall, I felt that more could have been done to build the physical relationship in stages along with the suspense.
I received a copy for review through NetGalley.
This ends with Helena being "sent away;" more to another world than very far. She doesn't fit in this new world, but Robert finds he can more readily spend time with her there. He hates secrets in a paramour, even a fake one, but is determined to find Helena's out. Of course there is also some drama related to her past that had to rear its ugly head as well. I wasn't at all surprised at the unveiling of the hidden villain, however.
I wished that Helena's relationship with her various "brothers" had been more developed. As it was, all we saw were a handful of short scenes that didn't illustrate the depth of the feelings she states they have for each other. I also didn't understand how Black had so much control over everyone or why he was so cold to her while claiming he was doing what was best for her. The entire "very close" family felt like a bunch of teammates who were pretty new to each other and mostly supported each other because they had the same ultimate goals. I didn't get a feel for deep history and affection.
The romantic element was okay, but not great. There was attraction, and the two spent some time together getting to know each other and surprising one another. However, the physical aspect moved far too quickly, and I didn't buy Helena's sudden throwing caution to the wind when she was with Robert. Overall, I felt that more could have been done to build the physical relationship in stages along with the suspense.
I received a copy for review through NetGalley.
September 13, 2016
Lord Robert Dennington, the Marquess of Westfield is done with women. They are all conniving and not worth his time. Especially those who make his heart race. So now he will be alone, until the time he decides to take a wife who only wants him for his title. Robert will never again be cowed by the fickle emotion that he believed to be true love. That is of course until he became so foxed on the spirits that he ended up in a random women's room and has no clue how he ended up there. Besides the fact that he saw her the night before and he wasn't all that, how do you say, put off by how she presented herself to him.
Helena Banbury has been protected by her "brothers" for close to two decades. Ever since her torturous childhood they have kept her in a gilded prison in their gambling hall. So for the last 20 or so years she has been held up in her small rooms, and her small office meant for her bookkeeping. While living by the millions of rules that her brothers have told her over and over again. And then of course the one time she breaks the rules her whole life is turned upside down and she is forced to spend four months with the people of the ton, the people she, and her brothers, absolutely despise.
This was a great read, that although you have to read carefully especially at the beginning, is truly worth the time. I have read some other Caldwell books and each time I read a piece of literature by her I becoming increasingly enamored with her writing style as well as the historical romance genre in its entirety. The characters in this book developed so well throughout this book that they felt real to me. The pain of betrayal, the pain of heartbreak, as well as the pain of being abused by those who should protect you. All of these characters go through so much that it makes many realize just how much those around us go through and yet we never think about it. This book did a great job at depicting how life may impact us but we decide who and what life turns us into.
I definitely recommend this book to all historical romance lovers, and to all Caldwell lovers.
~A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Helena Banbury has been protected by her "brothers" for close to two decades. Ever since her torturous childhood they have kept her in a gilded prison in their gambling hall. So for the last 20 or so years she has been held up in her small rooms, and her small office meant for her bookkeeping. While living by the millions of rules that her brothers have told her over and over again. And then of course the one time she breaks the rules her whole life is turned upside down and she is forced to spend four months with the people of the ton, the people she, and her brothers, absolutely despise.
This was a great read, that although you have to read carefully especially at the beginning, is truly worth the time. I have read some other Caldwell books and each time I read a piece of literature by her I becoming increasingly enamored with her writing style as well as the historical romance genre in its entirety. The characters in this book developed so well throughout this book that they felt real to me. The pain of betrayal, the pain of heartbreak, as well as the pain of being abused by those who should protect you. All of these characters go through so much that it makes many realize just how much those around us go through and yet we never think about it. This book did a great job at depicting how life may impact us but we decide who and what life turns us into.
I definitely recommend this book to all historical romance lovers, and to all Caldwell lovers.
~A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
May 28, 2021
The heroine is a knife wielding math wiz, illegitimate daughter of a duke, street urchin turned bookkeeper, sister of a notorious gaming hell owner with emotional and physical scars. Despite all of this Helena is one of the most timid and bland heroines in any historical romance I have read. Her sister Diana, a minor side character, outshines the h.
I think this needed another round of editing, there was a lot of repetitive phrasing and general confusion with timelines and characters. The story was haphazardly done with no depth to the plot or any character. This is highly rated on GR so maybe it's a me thing and I'm just missing the magic of this book.
I think this needed another round of editing, there was a lot of repetitive phrasing and general confusion with timelines and characters. The story was haphazardly done with no depth to the plot or any character. This is highly rated on GR so maybe it's a me thing and I'm just missing the magic of this book.
January 7, 2018
I absolutely loved Robert and Helena's story!! When the H/H of a story are of different classes, you always end up with added conflict as they try to get past those barriers. I absolutely loved Helena and hope that we get to see more of her in the coming books. She has a tough exterior having grown up the way that she did, but it just made her a more complex character.
I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series, which features Ryker, Helena's brother.
I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series, which features Ryker, Helena's brother.
April 9, 2018
3.5 Stars
October 25, 2016
This book leaped ahead of the pack and has become my favorite of Caldwell’s books…and that was no easy feat. In a nutshell, the story is about two people who live totally different lifestyles. These two people have been wounded because of what they feel is betrayal by the very people who should always protect them. They carry scars both visible and invisible that threaten to keep them from ever being truly happy. And they both shape and live their lives in accordance to the pain they have experienced – unwilling to take chances on their heart or love.
Lord Robert Dennington, the Marquis of Westfield, grew up in the shadow of his grandfather the Duke of Somerset. He had everything that life could afford him in terms of luxury. It would seem that life was now his for the taking. Yet, he is not happy and while he knows that he has to do right by the title and marry, he is in no hurry to give up his carefree, rogue existence. And as far as he is concerned – because he has learned the hard way, and learned well -- there will be no investment in matters of the heart. He no longer believes in love.
Helena Banbury is almost twenty-five. She grew up in the Dials – alongside the worst of what London has to offer. Helena grew up knowing that her next meal could not be taken for granted. After living on the street and being abused as a child by a cruel and horrific man that claimed to be her protector, she was rescued by her brother and eventually they moved to a gentlemen’s gambling club – acquired by her brother, where she works as his bookkeeper. Her world exists only within those walls – walls that she hasn’t seen past in years, but yearns to see beyond, if only once. But her brother and her surrogate brothers protect her every move from that danger that scarred her physically. They keep her hidden from Digger, the man that brutalized her and killed her mother – the horrible man that haunts her dreams.
On a night that Robert feels particularly sorry for his circumstances, he over-imbibes. That happens to be the same night that Helena decides to sneak and see what the gentleman’s club looks like and who comes -- beyond the safety of the walls of her apartment. Thinking she is unseen, she moves about the floors of the club in the shadows, before finally returning to her apartment for bed. Robert, who always stays in rooms that he rents stumbles into what he thinks is his room. But – you guessed it – he wakes up in her room. And this rude awakening (this morning) could be considered the first day of the rest of their lives.
Life and circumstances abruptly changes for both of them – and nothing comes easy. Can they individually face what they fear will destroy them? Facing and freeing oneself of fear takes courage. Can they overcome their scars? Can they ignore the haute ton’s expectations and create their own? Can they decide what they even want? Can they learn to lean on each other?
While we all know that there is a HEA with this book, (as with all of her books) I will leave it to you, the reader, to read it and find out how Christi Caldwell brings you there. I will tell you that Helena Banbury and Robert Dennington (Lord Robert Dennington) are worthy of every minute you spend pouring over their lives. I cheered for each of them. I wept for each of them. And I cheered again and again. The characters in this book are rich and dynamic. They seem almost real. You know them through these written pages. Their story is tremendous, and is full of surprises. I want to know more. They are now ‘book family’ to me, and I want them happy. Christi Caldwell -- my pompoms are waiting in the corner – and I am happily looking forward to Lady Diana and Lord Ryker to perhaps have their day- find that person that makes their toes curl! Happily… Robert and Helena will be part of their stories. To everyone reading this, I encourage you to buy and read this book. I promise you will not be disappointed. I closed the last page with one word on my lips...more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lord Robert Dennington, the Marquis of Westfield, grew up in the shadow of his grandfather the Duke of Somerset. He had everything that life could afford him in terms of luxury. It would seem that life was now his for the taking. Yet, he is not happy and while he knows that he has to do right by the title and marry, he is in no hurry to give up his carefree, rogue existence. And as far as he is concerned – because he has learned the hard way, and learned well -- there will be no investment in matters of the heart. He no longer believes in love.
Helena Banbury is almost twenty-five. She grew up in the Dials – alongside the worst of what London has to offer. Helena grew up knowing that her next meal could not be taken for granted. After living on the street and being abused as a child by a cruel and horrific man that claimed to be her protector, she was rescued by her brother and eventually they moved to a gentlemen’s gambling club – acquired by her brother, where she works as his bookkeeper. Her world exists only within those walls – walls that she hasn’t seen past in years, but yearns to see beyond, if only once. But her brother and her surrogate brothers protect her every move from that danger that scarred her physically. They keep her hidden from Digger, the man that brutalized her and killed her mother – the horrible man that haunts her dreams.
On a night that Robert feels particularly sorry for his circumstances, he over-imbibes. That happens to be the same night that Helena decides to sneak and see what the gentleman’s club looks like and who comes -- beyond the safety of the walls of her apartment. Thinking she is unseen, she moves about the floors of the club in the shadows, before finally returning to her apartment for bed. Robert, who always stays in rooms that he rents stumbles into what he thinks is his room. But – you guessed it – he wakes up in her room. And this rude awakening (this morning) could be considered the first day of the rest of their lives.
Life and circumstances abruptly changes for both of them – and nothing comes easy. Can they individually face what they fear will destroy them? Facing and freeing oneself of fear takes courage. Can they overcome their scars? Can they ignore the haute ton’s expectations and create their own? Can they decide what they even want? Can they learn to lean on each other?
While we all know that there is a HEA with this book, (as with all of her books) I will leave it to you, the reader, to read it and find out how Christi Caldwell brings you there. I will tell you that Helena Banbury and Robert Dennington (Lord Robert Dennington) are worthy of every minute you spend pouring over their lives. I cheered for each of them. I wept for each of them. And I cheered again and again. The characters in this book are rich and dynamic. They seem almost real. You know them through these written pages. Their story is tremendous, and is full of surprises. I want to know more. They are now ‘book family’ to me, and I want them happy. Christi Caldwell -- my pompoms are waiting in the corner – and I am happily looking forward to Lady Diana and Lord Ryker to perhaps have their day- find that person that makes their toes curl! Happily… Robert and Helena will be part of their stories. To everyone reading this, I encourage you to buy and read this book. I promise you will not be disappointed. I closed the last page with one word on my lips...more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2016
OH. MY. GOODNESS. What a whizzbang first book in a brand new series (Sinful Brides) by Christi Caldwell. What a wonderful premise for a story -- and sooooooooo many great characters for the subsequent books. There was a teaser included for the next book and I am already chomping at the bit to see that one. It has the potential to be even better than this one!!!! I read the book straight through.
For you sticklers for historical time accuracy, this book will make you a little crazy because there just isn't much realism in it. It doesn't bother me in the least and I'm someone who does tend to get huffed up about historical inaccuracies. I just think the story is so good that I just don't care!
Talk about a clash of cultures -- or of worlds colliding - well -- you've got it in this book. Helena Bansbury is the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Wilkinson and she was raised in the Seven Dials. She was grossly abused, forced to beg and taught to be a pickpocket before her brother found and rescued her. She became the bookkeeper for the gaming hell that her brother and 3 others who were like brothers started. On the other hand, Robert Dennington the Marquess of Westfield and heir to his father, the Duke of Somerset led a life of privilege and ease. Well -- until you meet his grandfather. You meet him and see what a piece of work he is in the very beginning of the book. Everything in Roberts life, from that point on, is colored by what happens in the prologue.
I don't do spoilers, so I won't give you a blow-by-blow of the story. However, I will say that the story of these two coming together, finding the ability to trust and falling in love with each other is a really wonderful read.
"I requested and received this book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
For you sticklers for historical time accuracy, this book will make you a little crazy because there just isn't much realism in it. It doesn't bother me in the least and I'm someone who does tend to get huffed up about historical inaccuracies. I just think the story is so good that I just don't care!
Talk about a clash of cultures -- or of worlds colliding - well -- you've got it in this book. Helena Bansbury is the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Wilkinson and she was raised in the Seven Dials. She was grossly abused, forced to beg and taught to be a pickpocket before her brother found and rescued her. She became the bookkeeper for the gaming hell that her brother and 3 others who were like brothers started. On the other hand, Robert Dennington the Marquess of Westfield and heir to his father, the Duke of Somerset led a life of privilege and ease. Well -- until you meet his grandfather. You meet him and see what a piece of work he is in the very beginning of the book. Everything in Roberts life, from that point on, is colored by what happens in the prologue.
I don't do spoilers, so I won't give you a blow-by-blow of the story. However, I will say that the story of these two coming together, finding the ability to trust and falling in love with each other is a really wonderful read.
"I requested and received this book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
February 17, 2017
3.5 stars.
I read this one because it gave me a better pic regarding the next book hero which is this heroine's brother.
Well, this story is good but I'm not the hero's fan! He was the typical good for nothing aristocratic who was bitter for 12 years because of his youthful mistake and keep blaming his awful grandfather and his father too for it! Grown up man, it was 12 years already, gosh!!!
Here what he thought about himself at 85%,
“I did everything wrong,” he said in harsh, guttural tones. He’d been precisely the self-centered, pompous bastard his father had all but pointedly accused him of being. And if it hadn’t been for Helena, how blind he still would be to everything that mattered. Robert scrubbed his hands up and down his face.
85%!!! Just too little too late for me to start to like him:(
I like the heroine tho, she is a bookkeeper who is good with numbers and working for her brother's gaming hell business, just pity we didn't see much of her work connected in this story especially when the hero family fortune can get some help from her expertise.
Oh well, I really wanted to read Ryker's story now, he was a duke's bastard, growing up on the street, ruthless, cold and the owner of a very successful business but hate his father and the ton very much!
And his future heroine? Of course true blue aristocratic! Lol..
Just in case you wanted to know, this series on KU.
I read this one because it gave me a better pic regarding the next book hero which is this heroine's brother.
Well, this story is good but I'm not the hero's fan! He was the typical good for nothing aristocratic who was bitter for 12 years because of his youthful mistake and keep blaming his awful grandfather and his father too for it! Grown up man, it was 12 years already, gosh!!!
Here what he thought about himself at 85%,
“I did everything wrong,” he said in harsh, guttural tones. He’d been precisely the self-centered, pompous bastard his father had all but pointedly accused him of being. And if it hadn’t been for Helena, how blind he still would be to everything that mattered. Robert scrubbed his hands up and down his face.
85%!!! Just too little too late for me to start to like him:(
I like the heroine tho, she is a bookkeeper who is good with numbers and working for her brother's gaming hell business, just pity we didn't see much of her work connected in this story especially when the hero family fortune can get some help from her expertise.
Oh well, I really wanted to read Ryker's story now, he was a duke's bastard, growing up on the street, ruthless, cold and the owner of a very successful business but hate his father and the ton very much!
And his future heroine? Of course true blue aristocratic! Lol..
Just in case you wanted to know, this series on KU.
May 26, 2017
I just want to say there was nothing sinful about this female character, She had grown up with torture, and serve beatings, that left scars. What she is is smart, and brave. Her brother owns a gentleman's club, in a bad side of London. She is restricted to her office, and private quarters, and serves as his book keeper. Mr.Black protects her, and three brothers of the streets, and runs the sinful den, full of rich gentleman who gamble, and drink to access away from the eyes of society. The story is about her meeting a marques, on the wrong floor one night, and even though she is innocent her brothers send her to her birth father, who is a Duke. There she meets a sweet half sister , and learns more about the father who gave her birth, but left her and her mother in the hands of evil. She also is reacquainted , with Robert the Lord that started all her troubles, with her brothers. She faces all types of danger, and the snobbery of the ton. She learns that not all rich people are pampered, and do have to make difficult choices. I loved the romance, and the growth both characters go through. I also do hope more stories evolve from this book. Her brothers, and his sister, are all still available. This is a new author for me, but I will be reading more. The storyline flowed well, and her characters wanted me reading more. I also loved the ending.
July 20, 2017
As a young man, Lord Robert Dennington, heir to the Duke of Somerset, learned to distrust women. Twelve years later his father is insisting he finally settle down and marry. He agrees it’s time and plans to find a proper bride with no feelings attached. He celebrates, a little too much, at a gaming hell and ends up in the owners’ sister’s room.
Helena Banbury works as the bookkeeper in her brothers’ club. They are very protective of her. Waking to discover the hungover Robert in her room she tries to get him out before her brothers discover him. But in that club, her brothers know everything. Worried that she is unsafe and how she wants to live her life, they contact her biological father, the Duke of Wilkinson, who is happy to take her into his home. She is to use the 4 remaining months of the Season to see what her life could be like and make her choice.
At her father’s home, she finds a lovely half-sister and a wicked step-mother. She runs into Robert at a ball and convinces him he must pretend to court her as it’s his fault her brothers sent her away.
Pretending to care about each other turns to love. But first, there are a lot obstacles in the way.
I don’t like to read or write plot spoilers. This is a good book and I hope you’ll try it.
Helena Banbury works as the bookkeeper in her brothers’ club. They are very protective of her. Waking to discover the hungover Robert in her room she tries to get him out before her brothers discover him. But in that club, her brothers know everything. Worried that she is unsafe and how she wants to live her life, they contact her biological father, the Duke of Wilkinson, who is happy to take her into his home. She is to use the 4 remaining months of the Season to see what her life could be like and make her choice.
At her father’s home, she finds a lovely half-sister and a wicked step-mother. She runs into Robert at a ball and convinces him he must pretend to court her as it’s his fault her brothers sent her away.
Pretending to care about each other turns to love. But first, there are a lot obstacles in the way.
I don’t like to read or write plot spoilers. This is a good book and I hope you’ll try it.
January 21, 2019
Awful!
I’m giving this one star because it is the only way I can review it. I didn’t make it past the first chapter. The beginning scene with the grandfather is so ridiculously unbelievable that I couldn’t keep reading! Disgusting!!
I’m giving this one star because it is the only way I can review it. I didn’t make it past the first chapter. The beginning scene with the grandfather is so ridiculously unbelievable that I couldn’t keep reading! Disgusting!!
May 7, 2017
The story and characters are likeable. The writing is inefficient, choppy, and repetitive. I skim read most of the book.
February 15, 2020
We spend an awful lot of time in hero and heroine's heads for how little we learn about them. I didn't h a t e the book, it was just really repetitive and could stand a more ruthless editor.
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