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Sinclair and Raven #2
Seeing Danger
Lord Devonshire Sinclair has accepted no woman could live at his side and understand what he is capable of…until now.
He understands his family’s heightened senses are a result of a long ago pact between the Sinclairs and the powerful Raven family. To Honor and Protect is their creed.
Miss Lilliana Braithwaite has always appeared a woman of little sense, with a tendency to dress like a color-blind field mouse. Dev had, for two years, ignored her until one night he finds her on the streets of London, attempting to rescue a child, and thereby hurling herself into danger. From that day forth everything between them changes, and in Lilly he finds the woman who could tame his heart. However, she does not appear convinced by that fact.
With only a matter of months before she receives her inheritance Lilly is determined to hold her secrets close. No easy task when Lord Sinclair seems equally determined to meddle in her affairs. Lilly tries to repel him, but finds herself weakening as he rescues her from the fiend intent on disrupting her plans. Soon she can not walk away from Dev, but can she allow herself to trust him enough to give him her heart?
From USA Today Bestseller Wendy Vella comes an exciting Regency series about legend, love and destiny, with a hint of magic.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2016
1391 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Vella
99 books832 followersWendy Vella is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of historical romances filled with mystery, intrigue, unconventional heroines, and dashing heroes.
Connect with Wendy in her Facebook reader group facebook.com/groups/wendyvellareaders or sign up for her reader newsletter at WendyVella.com to get goodies, exclusive excerpts and behind-the-scenes peeks.
Wendy also writes small town contemporary romances under the name Lani Blake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
February 25, 2023
As eldest of the Sinclair family. Devons family is his life and come first for him. Until he finds himself attracted to the eccentric Lilly. Nice story .
January 15, 2018
This really needs an editor. It rambles interminably with unattributed dialogue and numerous repetitions. The characters are all far too self-centred and there is the Mary Sue curse of ‘unusually coloured eyes’
Dnf at 27%
Dnf at 27%
Want to read
June 25, 2023💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/14/2018)! 💝
September 17, 2021
Rinse and repeat...and repeat...and repeat. There wasn't much new to learn about the characters or the family and the plot was a rehash of the first.
December 27, 2016
3.5 stars
I expected more after reading the blurb, which was the reason why I read the first book in the series! But the story had no highlights, especially in comparison to book 1, which felt very similar and I wanted Dev to struggle more with his emotions. It all went too smooth for Dev and Lilliana, I like my historicals to have a little bit more drama.
I expected more after reading the blurb, which was the reason why I read the first book in the series! But the story had no highlights, especially in comparison to book 1, which felt very similar and I wanted Dev to struggle more with his emotions. It all went too smooth for Dev and Lilliana, I like my historicals to have a little bit more drama.
December 20, 2018
Whaaaaat happened? The first book was so good! This book is awful. And it has a large part to with Devon. Case in point, I had to open the book I JUST finished to get his name. What a rude butthead. He was way too high handed and in not a sexy way. I would say that he was worse than Edward Cullen in some ways. And don't get me started ooonnnn (opens book again) Lily. She was kind of interesting, but at the same time frustrating as hell. I did not get her motivations at all and she spent the entire book proclaiming to hate Devon. I didn't believe their romance one bit. Also, the family really didn't shine, like in the last book.
December 2, 2020
Ohhhh the Sinclairs **swoon**
She has done it again! I have fallen in love with each hero and drooled as they start domineering and end as putty in their women’s hands.
Each passionately wooing their ladies until they swoon!
This series is great. I literally can not put the book down when I start. Highly recommend this series and the others in this author’s regency collection.
She has done it again! I have fallen in love with each hero and drooled as they start domineering and end as putty in their women’s hands.
Each passionately wooing their ladies until they swoon!
This series is great. I literally can not put the book down when I start. Highly recommend this series and the others in this author’s regency collection.
September 4, 2021
5 STARS
This is the second book in the series and it was as enjoyable as the first this author really knows how to put a story together this was Lily and Devon’s story and it had lots of love, danger, romance and intrigue and a little bit of the paranormal thoroughly recommended.
This is the second book in the series and it was as enjoyable as the first this author really knows how to put a story together this was Lily and Devon’s story and it had lots of love, danger, romance and intrigue and a little bit of the paranormal thoroughly recommended.
September 2, 2021
A marvelous adventure
The Sinclair/ Raven families continue to grow in size and love! Devon, eldest sibling and head of the family, finds his soulmate who also happens to be a cousin to his brother in law, Duke James Raven. The drama and action as well as passion are unending with a mystery twist at the end!
The Sinclair/ Raven families continue to grow in size and love! Devon, eldest sibling and head of the family, finds his soulmate who also happens to be a cousin to his brother in law, Duke James Raven. The drama and action as well as passion are unending with a mystery twist at the end!
February 28, 2018
If I could give this a rating of none (or worse), I would. Instead, this is a DNF, and I'll tell you why:
The first book of the series features a genuinely icky anti-hero "hero" who doesn't understand consent, and in fact frequently ignores the heroines boundaries and "no, don't kiss me" to take what he wants. The rest of the characters, the Sinclair family, were absolutely delightful characters, and so I figured that the issue with the Duke of Raven was a one-off for the first novel, and the rest would be a different tone.
I was wrong. Dev Sinclair, the eldest brother, is the hero of this book - but Vella (the author) might as well have just continued writing the Duke of Raven. Dev Sinclair's everything - attitude, behavior towards others, his family - changes to being the rakish and rapey behavior of the Duke, instead, complete with forcing his kisses on a decidedly uninterested woman after 1) rescuing her from a moving carriage that was kidnapping a child she was trying to rescue (so you know, after she'd been injured and traumatized, he decided he just couldn't help himself and HAD to kiss her, regardless of her interests) and 2) the next time he saw her, at a ball, where she repeatedly told him to leave her alone, stop asking her about what happened the night he helped, stay away from her - in fact, she was so determined to get away from Dev she hid from him. Naturally, he found her and then what did he do? Forced himself on her, again, complete with the revolting "open for me" line at kissing her.
From there Dev decides to force his younger sister Essie to do his bidding, bullies her into telling him she's going to visit Lilly, the unfortunate victim of his advances, then forces his way into the trip, house... it's just awful. This isn't the sensitive, thoughtful, kind Devonshire Sinclair of the first novel, who respected the agency of his sisters and that of other women. This is a rapey brute, a clone of the Duke, who thinks of nothing but what he can take from the heroine, whether or not she is interested - it's all about his thirst, his needs, his use for the woman. It's vile and revolting, and obviously a theme of these novels. So no, did not finish, do not recommend, wish I hadn't spent the time at all, and recommend - unless you have a thing for bossy, rapey heroes with cloned personalities who see women as objects to use for their lust and not much else, at least if they're the main character - you avoid, as well.
The first book of the series features a genuinely icky anti-hero "hero" who doesn't understand consent, and in fact frequently ignores the heroines boundaries and "no, don't kiss me" to take what he wants. The rest of the characters, the Sinclair family, were absolutely delightful characters, and so I figured that the issue with the Duke of Raven was a one-off for the first novel, and the rest would be a different tone.
I was wrong. Dev Sinclair, the eldest brother, is the hero of this book - but Vella (the author) might as well have just continued writing the Duke of Raven. Dev Sinclair's everything - attitude, behavior towards others, his family - changes to being the rakish and rapey behavior of the Duke, instead, complete with forcing his kisses on a decidedly uninterested woman after 1) rescuing her from a moving carriage that was kidnapping a child she was trying to rescue (so you know, after she'd been injured and traumatized, he decided he just couldn't help himself and HAD to kiss her, regardless of her interests) and 2) the next time he saw her, at a ball, where she repeatedly told him to leave her alone, stop asking her about what happened the night he helped, stay away from her - in fact, she was so determined to get away from Dev she hid from him. Naturally, he found her and then what did he do? Forced himself on her, again, complete with the revolting "open for me" line at kissing her.
From there Dev decides to force his younger sister Essie to do his bidding, bullies her into telling him she's going to visit Lilly, the unfortunate victim of his advances, then forces his way into the trip, house... it's just awful. This isn't the sensitive, thoughtful, kind Devonshire Sinclair of the first novel, who respected the agency of his sisters and that of other women. This is a rapey brute, a clone of the Duke, who thinks of nothing but what he can take from the heroine, whether or not she is interested - it's all about his thirst, his needs, his use for the woman. It's vile and revolting, and obviously a theme of these novels. So no, did not finish, do not recommend, wish I hadn't spent the time at all, and recommend - unless you have a thing for bossy, rapey heroes with cloned personalities who see women as objects to use for their lust and not much else, at least if they're the main character - you avoid, as well.
January 17, 2021
Absolutely loved this entire series.
September 20, 2016
** I was given an opportunity to read this book in order to provide an honest review.
I must admit that I fell in love with Wendy Vella’s writing after reading the Langley Sister Trilogy. Since, I have become such a fan that I have read many more of her historical romances.
In Seeing Danger, Ms. Vella creates a story filled with suspense, mystery, love and hope. Though the book is centered on Lord Devonshire Sinclair and Lilliana Braithwaite she still includes the Sinclair and Raven families which bring so much to the tale.
Lord Sinclair, Devon or Dev, to his family and friends is gifted with “sight” – not just the ability to see, but to see for great distances, inner workings and a person’s aura. His family has been tied to the Raven family for over a century; protecting them in times of need.
Devon has dismissed Lilly as flippant and strange with her over the top dressing the last couple of seasons. It is only when he saves her while she is in the process of saving a child that he realizes there is so much more to her.
Lilly has a secret. I can’t and won’t give it all away, but will say that I found myself having lots of emotions for her. There is a whole other side to Ms. Braithwaite.
Devon could have chalked the pull he feels to Lilly up to the Sinclair/ Raven connection as she is a member of the Raven family, but he doesn’t which makes me love him even more. He knows what he wants and he goes after it!
The romantic relationship between the two is as suspenseful as the investigation they are involved in – I could not put this book down!
It is my opinion that you can read this book without first reading Sensing Danger, but I HIGHLY recommend you read that one first. Ms. Vella introduces the family and many other characters in that book, but more importantly it is also a five star read!
Were there some editing errors? Sure (nothing overwhelming). Did it take away from the story? ABSOLUTELY not!
I must admit that I fell in love with Wendy Vella’s writing after reading the Langley Sister Trilogy. Since, I have become such a fan that I have read many more of her historical romances.
In Seeing Danger, Ms. Vella creates a story filled with suspense, mystery, love and hope. Though the book is centered on Lord Devonshire Sinclair and Lilliana Braithwaite she still includes the Sinclair and Raven families which bring so much to the tale.
Lord Sinclair, Devon or Dev, to his family and friends is gifted with “sight” – not just the ability to see, but to see for great distances, inner workings and a person’s aura. His family has been tied to the Raven family for over a century; protecting them in times of need.
Devon has dismissed Lilly as flippant and strange with her over the top dressing the last couple of seasons. It is only when he saves her while she is in the process of saving a child that he realizes there is so much more to her.
Lilly has a secret. I can’t and won’t give it all away, but will say that I found myself having lots of emotions for her. There is a whole other side to Ms. Braithwaite.
Devon could have chalked the pull he feels to Lilly up to the Sinclair/ Raven connection as she is a member of the Raven family, but he doesn’t which makes me love him even more. He knows what he wants and he goes after it!
The romantic relationship between the two is as suspenseful as the investigation they are involved in – I could not put this book down!
It is my opinion that you can read this book without first reading Sensing Danger, but I HIGHLY recommend you read that one first. Ms. Vella introduces the family and many other characters in that book, but more importantly it is also a five star read!
Were there some editing errors? Sure (nothing overwhelming). Did it take away from the story? ABSOLUTELY not!
January 12, 2021
Love strikes when you least expect
Love, love the book. I could not put it down. Devon never thought he would find his mate with his color. Lilliana just wanted to help the children. But when Devon saves her and the child, he is flabbergasted that Lilliana has the green aura he does.
When she is abducted he knows something is wrong that the other half of him is in trouble. Such a wonderful book with some revelations. Can’t wait to read more of the series!!
Love, love the book. I could not put it down. Devon never thought he would find his mate with his color. Lilliana just wanted to help the children. But when Devon saves her and the child, he is flabbergasted that Lilliana has the green aura he does.
When she is abducted he knows something is wrong that the other half of him is in trouble. Such a wonderful book with some revelations. Can’t wait to read more of the series!!
August 11, 2021
The fun and games continue!!
Deception, missing children, redemption, kidnap and a huge dollop of misperception form the basis for a scrumptious heated battle of wills between Lilly and Devon. Especially as they wield and wrangle stubborn determination, with such artful style their banter and encounters become almost electrified by it. Ultimately, working (even if begrudgingly) to uncover secrets, find answers, dissolve misunderstandings and explore the heightened intrigue and alluring fascination that is so vibrantly flowering between them. Revealing that their projected strength and desperate instinct to control may just be encased in a fragile vulnerability stemmed from a desire and desperate need to tenaciously protect and care for the ones they love the most.
Resulting, in a teasing, heat infused, at times touchingly tender, and witty chemistry that wraps up Lilly and Devon in one absorbing romance. That despite being seeded in dislike, quickly blossoms into a burning desire, a mutual need to protect and belong, an overwhelming magnetic connection and a fiery empowering love.
What an adventure and what a family!!! I just love each journey that continues to see them delightfully grow and make me laugh as I enjoy wallowing in their remarkable bond, drama and unpredictability. They literally shine with loyalty, joy, devotion and heart.
Making book 2 just as fabulously absorbing for me as the first!
Deception, missing children, redemption, kidnap and a huge dollop of misperception form the basis for a scrumptious heated battle of wills between Lilly and Devon. Especially as they wield and wrangle stubborn determination, with such artful style their banter and encounters become almost electrified by it. Ultimately, working (even if begrudgingly) to uncover secrets, find answers, dissolve misunderstandings and explore the heightened intrigue and alluring fascination that is so vibrantly flowering between them. Revealing that their projected strength and desperate instinct to control may just be encased in a fragile vulnerability stemmed from a desire and desperate need to tenaciously protect and care for the ones they love the most.
Resulting, in a teasing, heat infused, at times touchingly tender, and witty chemistry that wraps up Lilly and Devon in one absorbing romance. That despite being seeded in dislike, quickly blossoms into a burning desire, a mutual need to protect and belong, an overwhelming magnetic connection and a fiery empowering love.
What an adventure and what a family!!! I just love each journey that continues to see them delightfully grow and make me laugh as I enjoy wallowing in their remarkable bond, drama and unpredictability. They literally shine with loyalty, joy, devotion and heart.
Making book 2 just as fabulously absorbing for me as the first!
October 5, 2021
Very good book! Loving these siblings!
October 30, 2017
I have a soft spot for historical romances that involve the paranormal. They are so few and far between, and even less are written well. I have never read any other novels by this author, but I am interested in reading more, especially the prequel to this novel. I enjoyed the author’s Sinclair family and their abilities almost as much as I enjoyed their history/mythology. Their family dynamic was both amusing and heartwarming.
I felt the author’s style was simplistic and I appreciated how straightforward her characters were both in action and words. I also loved her female leads who were strong without being unrealistic especially for their time era. The love that grew between Lilly and Devon felt natural and I found myself rooting for their happy ending. Devon was an exemplary hero.
As far paranormal historical romances go, this is an enjoyable read. The story is simple enough with a heartwarming romance and HEA.
I felt the author’s style was simplistic and I appreciated how straightforward her characters were both in action and words. I also loved her female leads who were strong without being unrealistic especially for their time era. The love that grew between Lilly and Devon felt natural and I found myself rooting for their happy ending. Devon was an exemplary hero.
As far paranormal historical romances go, this is an enjoyable read. The story is simple enough with a heartwarming romance and HEA.
September 6, 2020
What happens when two protectors clash over the best way to keep everyone safe? You get the dramatic battle of wills between Devon and Lilly that’s at the heart of this book. Dev is a natural-born protector and nurturer. Everything he does is to make sure that the people who matter most to him are safe, cared for, and well-loved. Lilly has a bit of a momma-bear streak that she’s kept well-hidden from most everyone, along with the ‘real’ her. She’s carefully maintained her independence to be able to help the street children she’s dedicated her life to. When her cause puts her life in danger, she learns what it means to be one of the people who “matters” to Lord Devonshire Sinclair. At this point, I adore the extended Raven and Sinclair families, because it’s in the family interactions that this series really shines. The mystery is good, the romance is fun, the paranormal abilities are a delightful twist, but it’s the family drama that keeps bringing me back book after book.
August 15, 2021
A Must Read!!
Highly recommended! I enjoyed this book even more than the 1st one in the series!! Just a pleasure to read
Highly recommended! I enjoyed this book even more than the 1st one in the series!! Just a pleasure to read
August 30, 2019
Rating: R for sex
Sex: multiple scenes
Language: frequent Lord's name in vain
Violence: attempted kidnapping, kidnapping, arson, threats
HEA: yes
Would I read more of the series: yes!
This is an excellent second story in the series. I love when we get to continue interacting with characters from beginning stories, and because it's a family, we know the characters are coming up in the next stories. The story has the overarching plot of street urchins going missing, but there are lots of little tensions in the story, as well. I love the creativity of the author and how she dresses Lilly!
----SPOILERS----
Dev is walking home when he sees a child being abducted and a woman and other children giving chase. He turns on his sight, sees that her color is his exact same shade of green, and is surprised. He gives chase, and captures the woman and the boy as they fall out of the carriage. It turns out to be Miss Lilliana Braithwaite, a woman he had thought to be a bluestocking with odd fashion sense and no social sense. She won't answer his questions about what's going on, and then turns on the personality he knows.
They dance at a ball, and she still won't answer his questions, trying to put on that antisocial personality. He finds her again in the conservatory, and kisses her. Essex then manipulates Lilly to sit beside her at supper, along with Cambridge. Essie procures an invitation to the house on Temple Street because she has knitted garments for the children.
The day of the visit, Lilly's brother, Nicholas, announces he is marrying her to a man old enough to be her grandfather, Danderfield. She accuses him that it's because he's gambled away all of her money, and she gets a look that indicates that may be true. She goes to her home on Temple Street. No one knows she owns it. She has it for children of the streets who are hurt and in need of help. Essie and Dev come, see her endeavors, and then they all learn another child has been taken. Dev escorts Lilly to the Watch Tower. She is nearly run down in the street, but Dev saves her.
After they make the report, and Dev throws around his title and James's title and his uncle's title, Dev returns home. There he learns that Lilly is a Raven, James's cousin. Far back, she's also a Sinclair.
They go to a ball, where Nicholas forces Lilly to dance with Danderfield. Then she and James chat, renewing their friendship. She hides from Danderfield with the wallflowers. Dev finds her, but she gets an old lady to talk cures at him. Then he discovers she had supernatural senses, too; hers is touch. She wears gloves and hasn't touched anyone since childhood because of the horrible emotions she senses. Except when she touches him.
Dev goes to the docks to inspect his new ship, a step in becoming wealthy. He sees Lilly near a bar. She's inspecting a rental to provide a hiding place for children. He rescues her from brawlers.
They go to a spooky house with his family and her boy helper, Toby. Dev can see in the dark; she's terrified of it.
Lilly gets lured to an alley on behalf on a child, and is kidnapped. Dev feels something is off, searching for her at the ball. He speaks bluntly with Nicholas, then two of Lilly's street friends show up, and they all congregate at the front of the house to begin the search for her. Nicholas goes to the Watch Tower. When they find her, Dev rescues her, and then there's a fight involving all of them as they try to leave the warehouse. Toby is gravely wounded. As he lies dying on a bed at James's house, Dev takes Lilly's gloves off and has her touch him. She heals him.
After she rests, Dev makes love to her and tells her about the senses. At breakfast, Nicholas shows up. Dev, Lilly, Nicholas, and James talk. Nicholas says he's changing. Lilly agrees to marry Dev.
Two weeks later, Lilly rides the banister with Samantha and Emily, then they and Nicholas take Samantha's dog for a walk. Toby runs up. There's a fire at the children's house. Lilly rushes there; it was just a small fire. There's a threatening note, however. Devon arrives, and wants to get her out of London. She convinces him to let her stay, and they make love on the carriage ride back home.
Devon hires Mr Spriggot (private investigator) and Mr Brown (Bow Street Runner). They're the ones who are helping James find more brothers and sisters. They're also now finding Lilly's abductor.
The family goes to a type of circus, and someone nefarious sets the building on fire. Dev has the twins in his arms, and everyone's holding on to each other, making a chain, as they leave the building. Lilly gets wrenched away, so Dev gets out, puts the twins down and tells them to stay, and goes back in. When everyone's out safely, the twins are missing. Dev and Eden turn on their extra senses to pinpoint where they are. They've been kidnapped, and are being taken away in a carriage. They secure horses, and follow (Emily takes Samantha and Warwick home). The carriage leads them to Danderfield's estate. They rescue the twins and all the other missing children, then enter the mansion and find paperwork confirming who is involved.
When the men and the magistrate go to arrest Danderfield, Devin gets shot and dies. Lilly races in there, puts her hands on him and has everyone else put their hands on her hands. She also has James hold her there so that she won't collapse until the job is done. She brings him back to life, it removes the bullet, and leaves no scars. However, she is unconscious for two days, which scares Dev. A month later, they get married.
Cam (#3 or #4) is 28, Lilly is soon 25, Warwick is 8.
Sex: multiple scenes
Language: frequent Lord's name in vain
Violence: attempted kidnapping, kidnapping, arson, threats
HEA: yes
Would I read more of the series: yes!
This is an excellent second story in the series. I love when we get to continue interacting with characters from beginning stories, and because it's a family, we know the characters are coming up in the next stories. The story has the overarching plot of street urchins going missing, but there are lots of little tensions in the story, as well. I love the creativity of the author and how she dresses Lilly!
----SPOILERS----
Dev is walking home when he sees a child being abducted and a woman and other children giving chase. He turns on his sight, sees that her color is his exact same shade of green, and is surprised. He gives chase, and captures the woman and the boy as they fall out of the carriage. It turns out to be Miss Lilliana Braithwaite, a woman he had thought to be a bluestocking with odd fashion sense and no social sense. She won't answer his questions about what's going on, and then turns on the personality he knows.
They dance at a ball, and she still won't answer his questions, trying to put on that antisocial personality. He finds her again in the conservatory, and kisses her. Essex then manipulates Lilly to sit beside her at supper, along with Cambridge. Essie procures an invitation to the house on Temple Street because she has knitted garments for the children.
The day of the visit, Lilly's brother, Nicholas, announces he is marrying her to a man old enough to be her grandfather, Danderfield. She accuses him that it's because he's gambled away all of her money, and she gets a look that indicates that may be true. She goes to her home on Temple Street. No one knows she owns it. She has it for children of the streets who are hurt and in need of help. Essie and Dev come, see her endeavors, and then they all learn another child has been taken. Dev escorts Lilly to the Watch Tower. She is nearly run down in the street, but Dev saves her.
After they make the report, and Dev throws around his title and James's title and his uncle's title, Dev returns home. There he learns that Lilly is a Raven, James's cousin. Far back, she's also a Sinclair.
They go to a ball, where Nicholas forces Lilly to dance with Danderfield. Then she and James chat, renewing their friendship. She hides from Danderfield with the wallflowers. Dev finds her, but she gets an old lady to talk cures at him. Then he discovers she had supernatural senses, too; hers is touch. She wears gloves and hasn't touched anyone since childhood because of the horrible emotions she senses. Except when she touches him.
Dev goes to the docks to inspect his new ship, a step in becoming wealthy. He sees Lilly near a bar. She's inspecting a rental to provide a hiding place for children. He rescues her from brawlers.
They go to a spooky house with his family and her boy helper, Toby. Dev can see in the dark; she's terrified of it.
Lilly gets lured to an alley on behalf on a child, and is kidnapped. Dev feels something is off, searching for her at the ball. He speaks bluntly with Nicholas, then two of Lilly's street friends show up, and they all congregate at the front of the house to begin the search for her. Nicholas goes to the Watch Tower. When they find her, Dev rescues her, and then there's a fight involving all of them as they try to leave the warehouse. Toby is gravely wounded. As he lies dying on a bed at James's house, Dev takes Lilly's gloves off and has her touch him. She heals him.
After she rests, Dev makes love to her and tells her about the senses. At breakfast, Nicholas shows up. Dev, Lilly, Nicholas, and James talk. Nicholas says he's changing. Lilly agrees to marry Dev.
Two weeks later, Lilly rides the banister with Samantha and Emily, then they and Nicholas take Samantha's dog for a walk. Toby runs up. There's a fire at the children's house. Lilly rushes there; it was just a small fire. There's a threatening note, however. Devon arrives, and wants to get her out of London. She convinces him to let her stay, and they make love on the carriage ride back home.
Devon hires Mr Spriggot (private investigator) and Mr Brown (Bow Street Runner). They're the ones who are helping James find more brothers and sisters. They're also now finding Lilly's abductor.
The family goes to a type of circus, and someone nefarious sets the building on fire. Dev has the twins in his arms, and everyone's holding on to each other, making a chain, as they leave the building. Lilly gets wrenched away, so Dev gets out, puts the twins down and tells them to stay, and goes back in. When everyone's out safely, the twins are missing. Dev and Eden turn on their extra senses to pinpoint where they are. They've been kidnapped, and are being taken away in a carriage. They secure horses, and follow (Emily takes Samantha and Warwick home). The carriage leads them to Danderfield's estate. They rescue the twins and all the other missing children, then enter the mansion and find paperwork confirming who is involved.
When the men and the magistrate go to arrest Danderfield, Devin gets shot and dies. Lilly races in there, puts her hands on him and has everyone else put their hands on her hands. She also has James hold her there so that she won't collapse until the job is done. She brings him back to life, it removes the bullet, and leaves no scars. However, she is unconscious for two days, which scares Dev. A month later, they get married.
Cam (#3 or #4) is 28, Lilly is soon 25, Warwick is 8.
June 13, 2022
A great read
It was so hard to put down. I was glued fo the pages from start to finish. Dev and Lilly were just perfect together. But they didn't start that way. He didn't much care for her and she felt the same.
It was so hard to put down. I was glued fo the pages from start to finish. Dev and Lilly were just perfect together. But they didn't start that way. He didn't much care for her and she felt the same.
June 23, 2021
It keeps getting better!
I love Ms.Vella's gift of story. Each of her takes in this series brings new mysteries to explore. The family keeps getting bigger and more secrets are discovered. I can't wait to see what happens next!Enjoy!
I love Ms.Vella's gift of story. Each of her takes in this series brings new mysteries to explore. The family keeps getting bigger and more secrets are discovered. I can't wait to see what happens next!Enjoy!
February 1, 2026
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This book is part of the Raven and Sinclair series. It can be read as a standalone. The author has some free bonus epilogues available on her website for some of the books in the series.
Centuries prior, a Sinclair saved a duke of Raven. The Sinclairs were then charged with protecting the Raven family. Over time, they have developed special abilities. Dev, the male main character in this story, has phenomenal sight. In addition, he can switch his sight to see auras and can tell when two people are a perfect couple because their colors match. When the siblings are together their powers are stronger. In addition, when one sibling is in trouble, the other siblings have a sense that something is wrong.
I liked the interaction and care between the Sinclair siblings. They were good people. The brothers were supportive of their sisters’ independence and strength. In the first book, there was an interaction between Eden and her elder brother, Devon, that I thought that he showed a chauvinistic attitude but later came to realize that the family recognized him as their leader. Devon says at one point that his sisters are strong and independent, and he wouldn’t have them any other way.
That being said, in this book, I really did not care for his pushiness. He inserts himself into Lilly’s life even after she makes it clear that she does not want him to do so. He does so because he is curious and feels that, because he is, he should get answers. He also is shocked to find out that her aura color is a perfect match for his. As a result, he wants to boss and protect her. I am ok with the protect part but the boss part, while true to the unequal male/female relationships at the time, was aggravating. In addition, Dev wants to seduce her. Given that in this time, high born women were expected to remain pure, his motives were not good ones. When someone suggests marriage to him, he inwardly rebels. It was not a good look.
In addition, there is a point when he realizes that Lilly has a special ability from a long ago Sinclair ancestor. He decides to explain it to her later. I thought this might be because it relates to one of his secrets and it seemed a bit unfair that he wanted to keep his secret but demanded all of hers.
Lilly helps street children and has established a small home where children can come and get a meal. She finds out that someone is taking children off the street for unknown purposes. Dev accidentally discovers her rescuing a child that is being kidnapped and inserts himself into the situation. I applaud his involvement because it is a decent thing to do. In addition, him pressing the matter as a peer and a man lends weight when the situation is brought to the authorities. However, again, he presses into it without addressing Lilly’s objections.
Dev had a difficult childhood due to his father and he and his siblings were harangued by her father and told they were freaks. He was also a gambler that kept them poor and isolated. After he died, Dev took on a quasi fatherly role towards his siblings.
Lilly’s father recently died and her wastrel brother, Nicholas, is now her guardian. If she can remain unmarried until she is 26 (one year from now), she will inherit money. However, her gambling brother wants to marry her off to an elderly man with whom he has made a financial arrangement. Nicholas has lost all of the family’s money and wants Lilly’s. Lily is a cousin of the male main character of the first book, James.
Lilly acts recklessly at several points during the story. I thought there were a few times especially after she receives a note where she could have thought before she acted. Small spoiler… one person in the story changes in a very surprising way. Additionally, Lilly finds out something surprising about herself.
The series spans years as the younger children grow up and fall in love. Many main characters of future books were introduced.
I probably will not continue reading the author. I was too annoyed with the highhandedness of Devon in this book. There was a similar thing in the last book, but I was hoping it was a one off. It does not appear to be so.
This book is part of the Raven and Sinclair series. It can be read as a standalone. The author has some free bonus epilogues available on her website for some of the books in the series.
Centuries prior, a Sinclair saved a duke of Raven. The Sinclairs were then charged with protecting the Raven family. Over time, they have developed special abilities. Dev, the male main character in this story, has phenomenal sight. In addition, he can switch his sight to see auras and can tell when two people are a perfect couple because their colors match. When the siblings are together their powers are stronger. In addition, when one sibling is in trouble, the other siblings have a sense that something is wrong.
I liked the interaction and care between the Sinclair siblings. They were good people. The brothers were supportive of their sisters’ independence and strength. In the first book, there was an interaction between Eden and her elder brother, Devon, that I thought that he showed a chauvinistic attitude but later came to realize that the family recognized him as their leader. Devon says at one point that his sisters are strong and independent, and he wouldn’t have them any other way.
That being said, in this book, I really did not care for his pushiness. He inserts himself into Lilly’s life even after she makes it clear that she does not want him to do so. He does so because he is curious and feels that, because he is, he should get answers. He also is shocked to find out that her aura color is a perfect match for his. As a result, he wants to boss and protect her. I am ok with the protect part but the boss part, while true to the unequal male/female relationships at the time, was aggravating. In addition, Dev wants to seduce her. Given that in this time, high born women were expected to remain pure, his motives were not good ones. When someone suggests marriage to him, he inwardly rebels. It was not a good look.
In addition, there is a point when he realizes that Lilly has a special ability from a long ago Sinclair ancestor. He decides to explain it to her later. I thought this might be because it relates to one of his secrets and it seemed a bit unfair that he wanted to keep his secret but demanded all of hers.
Lilly helps street children and has established a small home where children can come and get a meal. She finds out that someone is taking children off the street for unknown purposes. Dev accidentally discovers her rescuing a child that is being kidnapped and inserts himself into the situation. I applaud his involvement because it is a decent thing to do. In addition, him pressing the matter as a peer and a man lends weight when the situation is brought to the authorities. However, again, he presses into it without addressing Lilly’s objections.
Dev had a difficult childhood due to his father and he and his siblings were harangued by her father and told they were freaks. He was also a gambler that kept them poor and isolated. After he died, Dev took on a quasi fatherly role towards his siblings.
Lilly’s father recently died and her wastrel brother, Nicholas, is now her guardian. If she can remain unmarried until she is 26 (one year from now), she will inherit money. However, her gambling brother wants to marry her off to an elderly man with whom he has made a financial arrangement. Nicholas has lost all of the family’s money and wants Lilly’s. Lily is a cousin of the male main character of the first book, James.
Lilly acts recklessly at several points during the story. I thought there were a few times especially after she receives a note where she could have thought before she acted. Small spoiler… one person in the story changes in a very surprising way. Additionally, Lilly finds out something surprising about herself.
The series spans years as the younger children grow up and fall in love. Many main characters of future books were introduced.
I probably will not continue reading the author. I was too annoyed with the highhandedness of Devon in this book. There was a similar thing in the last book, but I was hoping it was a one off. It does not appear to be so.
February 14, 2018
Devonshire is the eldest of the Sinclairs and worries most about protecting his talented family. One day in the street he sees a young woman throw herself at a carriage to save a street urchin from being kidnapped. She is Lilliana Braithwaite. Before he can think about it he’s rescuing her.
***
Needs tighter editing. Quite repetitive. And the whole story setup is that the Sinclair are cursed to rescue Ravens, and when Devon gets the odd feeling he’s felt twice before (whilst rescuing Ravens) with Lilly, he’s too slow to get what it means. She’s a Raven… duh. She turns out to be the Duke of Raven’s forgotten cousin.
People ask questions that have been asked and answered earlier.
Devon has super eyesight but he barely notices a carriage about to run over Lilly, and he says he saw the driver, but not clearly enough to bother trying to find him. Or maybe he just didn’t bother to search?
And I know it’s a common trope in romances, but she keeps telling him NOT to touch her, and he ignores her. *frowns* even so much as to kiss her when she’s said ‘no’.
*eyes narrow*
This is NOT the behaviour of a guy who allegedly respects women and knows them via his sisters.
He literally says ‘not all men’ to her.
Plus, he is told she is both Raven and Sinclair, and then he gets very pushy when she says she doesn’t like to be touched. Duh, maybe she’s got a gift; you know, LIKE YOU. [note: it takes them a further 100 pages to work this out… I kid you not]
It’s also wonderfully naive to think that having a room for the children to hide in will protect them from a gang that is capable of taking them off the street. You know?
Gee I dunno… it could be a TRAP!
Dev tells her brother Lord Braithwaite, he should care for his sister, and hug her… *blinks* I agree with the sentiment but it’s an extraordinary thing to say to this man who has destroyed other characters, and sold his sister to an aged lord. Then, minutes after this charming speech, he announces he has had a change of heart.
It feels so silly it’s ridiculous. It isn’t earned, you know? Even the author knows that. It would have been better plotting to have this about face occur after she’s rescued.
And it may seem obvious but her brother might also be a Raven and a Sinclair, doncha reckon?
STOP saying people’s names in every line of dialogue.
The bad guy reveal was just… silly. Three people, two of whom we haven’t even heard of before and the third had no motivation.
I gave book 1 three stars, and I liked the ‘what if’ idea… but this is just… not good. Even the idea of hiding in plain sight by dressing badly has potential… but breaks down too easily in the execution. She’s not fully committed and wears nice gowns when she’s not at a ball. People have lives outside of the ballroom, you now. Someone will see her NOT looking ridiculous.
2 stars
***
Needs tighter editing. Quite repetitive. And the whole story setup is that the Sinclair are cursed to rescue Ravens, and when Devon gets the odd feeling he’s felt twice before (whilst rescuing Ravens) with Lilly, he’s too slow to get what it means. She’s a Raven… duh. She turns out to be the Duke of Raven’s forgotten cousin.
People ask questions that have been asked and answered earlier.
Devon has super eyesight but he barely notices a carriage about to run over Lilly, and he says he saw the driver, but not clearly enough to bother trying to find him. Or maybe he just didn’t bother to search?
And I know it’s a common trope in romances, but she keeps telling him NOT to touch her, and he ignores her. *frowns* even so much as to kiss her when she’s said ‘no’.
“What don't I understand?” Dev took her other hand, turning her in the seat to face him. He uncurled her fingers from the fist they were clenched in and lifted them to his face.
“Don't.”
“Do,” Dev said gently. (pp. 117-118).
*eyes narrow*
This is NOT the behaviour of a guy who allegedly respects women and knows them via his sisters.
He literally says ‘not all men’ to her.
Plus, he is told she is both Raven and Sinclair, and then he gets very pushy when she says she doesn’t like to be touched. Duh, maybe she’s got a gift; you know, LIKE YOU. [note: it takes them a further 100 pages to work this out… I kid you not]
It’s also wonderfully naive to think that having a room for the children to hide in will protect them from a gang that is capable of taking them off the street. You know?
“Is it a child, miss?”
“Yes, Bee. It says we are to go to Jane Street, as there is a child in trouble, and it was signed by Toby.”
“Toby can't write though, miss.”
“I know, but why would anyone else send me a note if there were not a very real danger?” (p. 155).
Gee I dunno… it could be a TRAP!
Dev tells her brother Lord Braithwaite, he should care for his sister, and hug her… *blinks* I agree with the sentiment but it’s an extraordinary thing to say to this man who has destroyed other characters, and sold his sister to an aged lord. Then, minutes after this charming speech, he announces he has had a change of heart.
It feels so silly it’s ridiculous. It isn’t earned, you know? Even the author knows that. It would have been better plotting to have this about face occur after she’s rescued.
And it may seem obvious but her brother might also be a Raven and a Sinclair, doncha reckon?
STOP saying people’s names in every line of dialogue.
The bad guy reveal was just… silly. Three people, two of whom we haven’t even heard of before and the third had no motivation.
I gave book 1 three stars, and I liked the ‘what if’ idea… but this is just… not good. Even the idea of hiding in plain sight by dressing badly has potential… but breaks down too easily in the execution. She’s not fully committed and wears nice gowns when she’s not at a ball. People have lives outside of the ballroom, you now. Someone will see her NOT looking ridiculous.
2 stars
March 10, 2020
Seeing Danger – (A Sinclair and Raven Novel Book 2) – Wendy Vella
The Sinclair family was given the job of protecting any member of the House of Raven. All the Sinclair’s have heightened senses, hearing, sight, smell and use of herbs. In Book 2 we meet Lillian Braithwaite a woman who has taken up the crusade of saving the homeless children in London. Except the only people who know her secret are her maid, a footman and the couple who run the safe house she has started to house the children. Everyone else in society thinks she has no taste in clothing and is a bit of an airhead! One dark night Lord Devon Sinclair ends up saving her and a boy she was trying to rescue, after that night Devon Sinclair knows that what she shows society is not at all who she is.
Lillian is not a trusting person. After losing their parents, her brother, now the new head of the family has changed as a person and not for the better. He basically pays no attention to her, giving her the chance to work without him knowing about her project. Now that Devon Sinclair knows she has to dissuade him from telling her secret. What she doesn’t know is Devon Sinclair thinks she is amazing. He has great esteem for what she is trying to do but is very worried about what might happen to her because of the areas of London she goes into.
This second book is very interesting as it establishes more of the backstory for many of the characters (James, Duke of Raven) as well as establishes a family history for Lillian as well. By the time book 2 takes place the Sinclair family also finds out that the younger Sinclair siblings also have heightened senses.
Vella has taken the reader through a maze of plots and subplots in this story, with kidnappings, fires, threats and innuendos as well as peppering humor and love throughout the story. If you like historical romances with story lines that move and include darkness as well all the other elements that make for a good read, I highly recommend Wendy Vella’s Sinclair & Raven Series)
The Sinclair family was given the job of protecting any member of the House of Raven. All the Sinclair’s have heightened senses, hearing, sight, smell and use of herbs. In Book 2 we meet Lillian Braithwaite a woman who has taken up the crusade of saving the homeless children in London. Except the only people who know her secret are her maid, a footman and the couple who run the safe house she has started to house the children. Everyone else in society thinks she has no taste in clothing and is a bit of an airhead! One dark night Lord Devon Sinclair ends up saving her and a boy she was trying to rescue, after that night Devon Sinclair knows that what she shows society is not at all who she is.
Lillian is not a trusting person. After losing their parents, her brother, now the new head of the family has changed as a person and not for the better. He basically pays no attention to her, giving her the chance to work without him knowing about her project. Now that Devon Sinclair knows she has to dissuade him from telling her secret. What she doesn’t know is Devon Sinclair thinks she is amazing. He has great esteem for what she is trying to do but is very worried about what might happen to her because of the areas of London she goes into.
This second book is very interesting as it establishes more of the backstory for many of the characters (James, Duke of Raven) as well as establishes a family history for Lillian as well. By the time book 2 takes place the Sinclair family also finds out that the younger Sinclair siblings also have heightened senses.
Vella has taken the reader through a maze of plots and subplots in this story, with kidnappings, fires, threats and innuendos as well as peppering humor and love throughout the story. If you like historical romances with story lines that move and include darkness as well all the other elements that make for a good read, I highly recommend Wendy Vella’s Sinclair & Raven Series)
August 25, 2018
I loved this Book 2 just as much as Book 1! The family, the Sinclair's, are such fun, caring & loving bunch of siblings & they each have a special sensory "gift". Lord Devonshire Sinclair (Dev), our hero knows the heightened senses of his family & that they are a result of an agreement made years ago between & Sinclair & the Raven families to Honor & Protect the Raven's. He feels destined to remain alone in his life as no woman would ever understand him or his siblings "gift". Then along came the senseless, obviously color blind by the way she dresses Miss Lilliana Braithwaite (Lilly). Dev has ignored her existence for 2 years but he finds her one night on the streets of London, attempting to save a child & putting them both in danger. All bet are off, because from that night everything changes for Dev & Lilly From that day forth everything between them changes. Dev sees Lilly as a woman who could tame his heart & understand the family "gifts". Lilly doesn't seem to sure about that fact; however, Dev keeps butting in to her affairs & he rescues from a horrible fate & she begins to weaken towards him. Soon she is hooked but can she trust him with her heart? I highly recommend this book & this series & can't wait to read the next one!heart?
November 16, 2020
I somewhat liked the Hero although he could be a bit too assertive and was too pushy when it comes to making the heroine open up to him. I wished he could have just left the heroine alone the first moment she said no, because honestly, she's not worth it.
Lily is one of the heroines that is too headstrong to the point of stupidity. First she refuses any kind of help from the hero and his family despite her problem being something that she honestly couldn't handle by herself. Then she forces herself to despise the hero. Yeah, he could be a bit brash and rude, but then I thought she would find his brutal honesty refreshing as she has been hiding and lying through a personna for so long (There was a scene where she did find his honesty refreshing but then she continued hating him anyway because she likes him deep inside? What?).
But anyway, I DNF'd at the part where he was clearly hurting at the memories of the people he was not able to save during his stint at the military. Instead of being sympathetic, the heroine instead started to mock his pain, his insecurities and his need for control.
Lily is one of the heroines that is too headstrong to the point of stupidity. First she refuses any kind of help from the hero and his family despite her problem being something that she honestly couldn't handle by herself. Then she forces herself to despise the hero. Yeah, he could be a bit brash and rude, but then I thought she would find his brutal honesty refreshing as she has been hiding and lying through a personna for so long (There was a scene where she did find his honesty refreshing but then she continued hating him anyway because she likes him deep inside? What?).
But anyway, I DNF'd at the part where he was clearly hurting at the memories of the people he was not able to save during his stint at the military. Instead of being sympathetic, the heroine instead started to mock his pain, his insecurities and his need for control.
January 28, 2018
Very cute and heartwarming
This is the story of Devon and Lilly. He is the oldest of his siblings and takes care of the rest minus Eden who is married to James. Both are side characters throughout the story. While Lilly is trying to save a little boy from being snatched off the streets Devon sees her and helps rescue both . He recognizes her and is a bit startled as she has a different persona out in society. She puts on as a scatterbrained young lady who has bad fashion sense. Devon becomes curious about her instantly. She tried her best to dissuade his attention but he enlists the help of his siblings who enchant her. They offer her acceptance and kindness when her brother does not. There is an attempt on Lilly's life which they are then trying to solve as a group. Devon and all his siblings have "gifts" and Lilly has a secret one that comes to light. The various situation they find themselves in are written with humor. I enjoyed reading this book and am buying the next.
This is the story of Devon and Lilly. He is the oldest of his siblings and takes care of the rest minus Eden who is married to James. Both are side characters throughout the story. While Lilly is trying to save a little boy from being snatched off the streets Devon sees her and helps rescue both . He recognizes her and is a bit startled as she has a different persona out in society. She puts on as a scatterbrained young lady who has bad fashion sense. Devon becomes curious about her instantly. She tried her best to dissuade his attention but he enlists the help of his siblings who enchant her. They offer her acceptance and kindness when her brother does not. There is an attempt on Lilly's life which they are then trying to solve as a group. Devon and all his siblings have "gifts" and Lilly has a secret one that comes to light. The various situation they find themselves in are written with humor. I enjoyed reading this book and am buying the next.
November 2, 2025
This is the story of Devon Sinclair and Lilli, his disagreeable match. Dev knows she id made for him because her aura "color" is green a color only he has. Lilli has other plans for her life than being someone's wife. She has established a home for the street boys of London. A safe place where they can rest if they are tires and hungry or go to heal if they get hurt. This is something no one in he family or social class knows about and that's the way she wants it to stay. When Devon prevents her from being dragged into a carriage along with one of the boys he sees a different Lilli from the one he sees at the balls they attend and wonders why she hides her true self from the others. He is determined to get to the bottom of Lilli's secret and she's determined to keep him out of her life.
This was a well written story that I enjoyed reading. I have read others in this series and found them just as interesting as this one. I do plan on reading more of Ms. Vella's stories and encourage you to give them a try.
This was a well written story that I enjoyed reading. I have read others in this series and found them just as interesting as this one. I do plan on reading more of Ms. Vella's stories and encourage you to give them a try.
May 17, 2018
After reading a depressing book on the Holocaust, this was a palette cleanser. It was your typical romance, at first the two don't like each other but in reality they are attracted to one another. Quickly (too quickly for my taste) the hero falls in love with the girl. She is obtuse and doesn't get it and tries to fight her feelings. Mix in a semi-mystery and its your easy beach read.
I will say the last 100 pages dragged, lots of "I can't live without you," and contrived emergencies. Girl gets kidnapped, hero's baby sisters get kidnapped, all the male characters get to flex their muscles. I could have cut those last pages by about 70, just had the hero and heroine get married and be done with it.
Still for historical romances, if you want a quick read to just take your brain away, this is good.
I will say the last 100 pages dragged, lots of "I can't live without you," and contrived emergencies. Girl gets kidnapped, hero's baby sisters get kidnapped, all the male characters get to flex their muscles. I could have cut those last pages by about 70, just had the hero and heroine get married and be done with it.
Still for historical romances, if you want a quick read to just take your brain away, this is good.
November 20, 2021
Wonderful read
Loved this book. The storyline was intriguing and very touching. I couldn’t help but love the heroine as she risks her life to protect the abandoned children. The dialogue was enjoyable, although there were many typos. The characters were well developed and relatable (okay maybe not the magic part!) but that only added to the intrigue and mystery of the story. The only part I was disappointed with is the character change in our heroine’s brother. It was too sudden and simply unbelievable and unrealistic. It should have been much more gradual, maybe prompted by threats and repercussions on the part of the Sinclair & Raven clans. That would have been more in character with him. Otherwise, it was a wonderful story, filled with intrigue, suspense and humour. Lovely, lovely. Really enjoyable.
Loved this book. The storyline was intriguing and very touching. I couldn’t help but love the heroine as she risks her life to protect the abandoned children. The dialogue was enjoyable, although there were many typos. The characters were well developed and relatable (okay maybe not the magic part!) but that only added to the intrigue and mystery of the story. The only part I was disappointed with is the character change in our heroine’s brother. It was too sudden and simply unbelievable and unrealistic. It should have been much more gradual, maybe prompted by threats and repercussions on the part of the Sinclair & Raven clans. That would have been more in character with him. Otherwise, it was a wonderful story, filled with intrigue, suspense and humour. Lovely, lovely. Really enjoyable.
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