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Bow Street Brides #1
A Dangerous Seduction
A MURDER….
When Lady Scarlett Sherwood’s husband is killed in a riding accident that turns out to be no accident at all, she becomes the number one suspect in a murder investigation that takes the ton by storm. Her accuser? None other than the dark, ruthless Sir Owen Steel, Captain of the Bow Street Runners… and the only man Scarlett has ever loved.
A BETRAYAL…
Owen was just the poor son of a baker when Scarlett spurned him for a highborn lord. Now he is one of the most powerful men in England, but he never forgot the woman who left him humiliated and heartbroken. He always vowed he would make Scarlett pay for her treacherous betrayal, and what better way to seek revenge than to see her imprisoned for murder?
A DANGEROUS SEDUCTION…
But old passions are hard to ignore, and one kiss is all it takes for Owen and Scarlett’s sizzling chemistry to be reignited. Soon they find themselves swept up in an affair that could have dangerous consequences for them both. Because there is still a murderer on the loose, and he’s just found his next victim... Scarlett.
When Lady Scarlett Sherwood’s husband is killed in a riding accident that turns out to be no accident at all, she becomes the number one suspect in a murder investigation that takes the ton by storm. Her accuser? None other than the dark, ruthless Sir Owen Steel, Captain of the Bow Street Runners… and the only man Scarlett has ever loved.
A BETRAYAL…
Owen was just the poor son of a baker when Scarlett spurned him for a highborn lord. Now he is one of the most powerful men in England, but he never forgot the woman who left him humiliated and heartbroken. He always vowed he would make Scarlett pay for her treacherous betrayal, and what better way to seek revenge than to see her imprisoned for murder?
A DANGEROUS SEDUCTION…
But old passions are hard to ignore, and one kiss is all it takes for Owen and Scarlett’s sizzling chemistry to be reignited. Soon they find themselves swept up in an affair that could have dangerous consequences for them both. Because there is still a murderer on the loose, and he’s just found his next victim... Scarlett.
300 pages, Unknown Binding
First published February 14, 2017
412 people are currently reading
934 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Eaton
89 books489 followersJillian Eaton has written over forty historical romances and is known for finding the perfect balance between "intense emotions, sizzling chemistry, and light-hearted humor" (Swept Away by Romance). She grew up in Maine and now lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and their three boys on a 17-acre farm where they rescue and rehabilitate senior horses.
When she isn't writing, working at the barn, or playing a cutthroat game of Harry Potter Monopoly with her family, Jillian enjoys gardening, hiking, and being an adjunct professor at her Alma mater, Delaware Valley University.
If readers are new to her books, she always suggests the following:
Sweet and Swoony Romance: Duke at First Sight
Spicy and Mysterious: A Dangerous Seduction
All Around: Bewitched by the Bluestocking
Bit Darker: The Duchess Takes a Lover
When she isn't writing, working at the barn, or playing a cutthroat game of Harry Potter Monopoly with her family, Jillian enjoys gardening, hiking, and being an adjunct professor at her Alma mater, Delaware Valley University.
If readers are new to her books, she always suggests the following:
Sweet and Swoony Romance: Duke at First Sight
Spicy and Mysterious: A Dangerous Seduction
All Around: Bewitched by the Bluestocking
Bit Darker: The Duchess Takes a Lover
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
March 24, 2017
I had never read this author before and this book did not have much going on at Goodreads, a site I use to help decide whether I should review a book. I don't remember what made me say yes to this review - probably the blurb and the excerpt she provided. From page one I was into it. And by 25% I was in love and I started getting that sweaty feeling of - this is going to be goooood. I fell in love with Scarlett and Owen Steel.
In the prologue we get a brief glimpse into the life of young Scarlett - titled, wealthy, with a huge dowry and distant parents who want her to make the perfect match. She is spoiled, and acts a bit spoiled, but she is also head-strong. She meets Owen Steel at the market one day as he is selling his family's baked goods. She falls immediately for his looks but he sees a spoiled, wealthy girl and wants none of it. But they end up spending time together and they fall in love. But when it comes time for Scarlett to marry, she falls for the pressure from her parents and chooses a viscount, instead of going with her heart and choosing Owen.
So she had chosen Rodger. She had chosen Rodger in a vain hope that what she felt for Owen would fade in time and she would be happy with the grand houses and the fancy carriages and the exciting social life that being married to a peer would provide her. And for a time she was happy. Until the disillusionment set in and she realized that no money on earth could purchase the only that really mattered.
Love.
All of that is briefly mentioned in the prologue, and then we get a few brief flashbacks during the book which tells the story of Scarlett and Owen's young love. But when the book officially starts in chapter one, Scarlett has been married to Rodger for seven years - seven years of hell. Oh he was charming and endearing when he courted her, but in marriage he is verbally and physically abusive. He has had several mistresses, including her best friend which completely devastated Scarlett. She knows she chose wrong and it is a struggle every single day for her not to think about Owen and what his life turned out to be - having not seen him since the day she chose Rodger.
Owen has been busy - he joined the military and fought in France, which made him grow up quick. When he comes home to England and his parents have died, he joins the Bow Street Runners and becomes Chief Magistrate. He has never forgotten Scarlett, although when he thinks of her all of his thoughts turn bitter, as he is still devastated that the love of his life didn't choose him. When Scarlett's husband falls off of his horse and dies in the theater district, Owen is assigned the case. With Rodger's saddle manipulated, this was no accident - and this brings Owen back into Scarlett's life.
I love how Scarlett goes from spoiled young woman to a woman who realizes life is not pretty dresses and fancy balls. She really grows up in the seven years married to Rodger and her eyes have been opened to the real world. She is strong and while her marriage is a disaster, and her best friend betrayed her, she still has spirit left. I liked that about her. When Owen comes back into her life, it's almost too much emotion for her to take. She has always loved him and she didn't believe she would ever see him again.
Owen has carried so much anger around with him these past seven years, he is so intense and growly and made me swoon. He is still in love with Scarlett - of course he is!! But his pride and his heart are so, so broken he lashes out in anger. It's so sexy. *wink* He slams doors and steals brutal kisses from her. Oh Owen!
“Stop what? Showing emotion?” Her laugh was bitter, and just a bit sad. “Not all of us hide behind stone walls, Captain Steel. Some of us actually feel things.”
His jaw clenched. Is that what she truly thought? That he was cowering behind a wall made out of stone? If only she knew how much he felt.
Anger. Pain. Resentment.
Yearning. Desire. Lust.
From the second he’d seen her again he had been fighting a war inside of himself. A war he did not know if he wanted to win… or lose.
“I feel more things than you could possibly imagine.”
“Oh really?” Her eyes sparked with challenge even as tears continued to roll down her cheeks. Each one that fell cut Owen anew, slicing through his armor as though they were made of daggers instead of salt and water.
“What do you feel,” she asked, “besides loathing?”
“This.” Lowering his head, he pressed his mouth to hers.
Scarlett has to convince Owen her love for him is real and it all plays out so well. Scarlett's best friend, while betraying her by having an affair with Rodger, plays a prominent role in this book and you will have to read it to discover her story. Owen's fellow Bow Street Runner, Felix, who is a former thief, gets the next book and I neeeeed it now. I love how it ended with him.
As Rodger's fall from his horse was not accidental, there is a suspense plot, but it's not heavy in the book. You will probably figure it out pretty easily - it was enough to bring Owen and Scarlett together - but light enough to not overshadow the adorable romance or great characters this book has to offer.
A well done, sexy, emotional historical romance that I very much enjoyed. Highly recommend.
Grade: A
In the prologue we get a brief glimpse into the life of young Scarlett - titled, wealthy, with a huge dowry and distant parents who want her to make the perfect match. She is spoiled, and acts a bit spoiled, but she is also head-strong. She meets Owen Steel at the market one day as he is selling his family's baked goods. She falls immediately for his looks but he sees a spoiled, wealthy girl and wants none of it. But they end up spending time together and they fall in love. But when it comes time for Scarlett to marry, she falls for the pressure from her parents and chooses a viscount, instead of going with her heart and choosing Owen.
So she had chosen Rodger. She had chosen Rodger in a vain hope that what she felt for Owen would fade in time and she would be happy with the grand houses and the fancy carriages and the exciting social life that being married to a peer would provide her. And for a time she was happy. Until the disillusionment set in and she realized that no money on earth could purchase the only that really mattered.
Love.
All of that is briefly mentioned in the prologue, and then we get a few brief flashbacks during the book which tells the story of Scarlett and Owen's young love. But when the book officially starts in chapter one, Scarlett has been married to Rodger for seven years - seven years of hell. Oh he was charming and endearing when he courted her, but in marriage he is verbally and physically abusive. He has had several mistresses, including her best friend which completely devastated Scarlett. She knows she chose wrong and it is a struggle every single day for her not to think about Owen and what his life turned out to be - having not seen him since the day she chose Rodger.
Owen has been busy - he joined the military and fought in France, which made him grow up quick. When he comes home to England and his parents have died, he joins the Bow Street Runners and becomes Chief Magistrate. He has never forgotten Scarlett, although when he thinks of her all of his thoughts turn bitter, as he is still devastated that the love of his life didn't choose him. When Scarlett's husband falls off of his horse and dies in the theater district, Owen is assigned the case. With Rodger's saddle manipulated, this was no accident - and this brings Owen back into Scarlett's life.
I love how Scarlett goes from spoiled young woman to a woman who realizes life is not pretty dresses and fancy balls. She really grows up in the seven years married to Rodger and her eyes have been opened to the real world. She is strong and while her marriage is a disaster, and her best friend betrayed her, she still has spirit left. I liked that about her. When Owen comes back into her life, it's almost too much emotion for her to take. She has always loved him and she didn't believe she would ever see him again.
Owen has carried so much anger around with him these past seven years, he is so intense and growly and made me swoon. He is still in love with Scarlett - of course he is!! But his pride and his heart are so, so broken he lashes out in anger. It's so sexy. *wink* He slams doors and steals brutal kisses from her. Oh Owen!
“Stop what? Showing emotion?” Her laugh was bitter, and just a bit sad. “Not all of us hide behind stone walls, Captain Steel. Some of us actually feel things.”
His jaw clenched. Is that what she truly thought? That he was cowering behind a wall made out of stone? If only she knew how much he felt.
Anger. Pain. Resentment.
Yearning. Desire. Lust.
From the second he’d seen her again he had been fighting a war inside of himself. A war he did not know if he wanted to win… or lose.
“I feel more things than you could possibly imagine.”
“Oh really?” Her eyes sparked with challenge even as tears continued to roll down her cheeks. Each one that fell cut Owen anew, slicing through his armor as though they were made of daggers instead of salt and water.
“What do you feel,” she asked, “besides loathing?”
“This.” Lowering his head, he pressed his mouth to hers.
Scarlett has to convince Owen her love for him is real and it all plays out so well. Scarlett's best friend, while betraying her by having an affair with Rodger, plays a prominent role in this book and you will have to read it to discover her story. Owen's fellow Bow Street Runner, Felix, who is a former thief, gets the next book and I neeeeed it now. I love how it ended with him.
As Rodger's fall from his horse was not accidental, there is a suspense plot, but it's not heavy in the book. You will probably figure it out pretty easily - it was enough to bring Owen and Scarlett together - but light enough to not overshadow the adorable romance or great characters this book has to offer.
A well done, sexy, emotional historical romance that I very much enjoyed. Highly recommend.
Grade: A
January 2, 2026
"You were always beautiful, but now […] Now you are stunning." His arm fell away as a sneer curled his lip. "But then the most vicious things always are."
This book had been on my TBR list forever and I finally picked it up as my last book of 2025.
As a young girl, Lady Scarlett fell in love with Owen Steel, a baker's son. They planned to elope to Gretna Green and get married, but at the last moment, she decided to marry Lord Sherwood instead, because he could offer her a more luxurious lifestyle. After seven years of a horrible marriage, her husband is killed and she's the number one suspect. The captain of the Bow Street Runners is none other than her childhood sweetheart, and he hadn't forgotten her betrayal. Nevertheless, sparks fly between them, and when Scarlett herself is in danger, Owen does everything in his power to keep her safe.
It's a decent story without any big surprises or much depth. The characters are fine, but they reconcile a bit too easily without much groveling. The crime plot was pretty far-fetched, and the writing style was a little bit peculiar at times.
I wouldn't rule out reading another book in the series, but I'm not really eager to do so.
2.5
This book had been on my TBR list forever and I finally picked it up as my last book of 2025.
As a young girl, Lady Scarlett fell in love with Owen Steel, a baker's son. They planned to elope to Gretna Green and get married, but at the last moment, she decided to marry Lord Sherwood instead, because he could offer her a more luxurious lifestyle. After seven years of a horrible marriage, her husband is killed and she's the number one suspect. The captain of the Bow Street Runners is none other than her childhood sweetheart, and he hadn't forgotten her betrayal. Nevertheless, sparks fly between them, and when Scarlett herself is in danger, Owen does everything in his power to keep her safe.
It's a decent story without any big surprises or much depth. The characters are fine, but they reconcile a bit too easily without much groveling. The crime plot was pretty far-fetched, and the writing style was a little bit peculiar at times.
I wouldn't rule out reading another book in the series, but I'm not really eager to do so.
2.5
January 18, 2020
5 stars - Historical Romance
I’m so glad that I came across this indie author and that she has an extensive backlist because I’m loving her writing style and seasoned voice. I really liked all the novellas in the A Duchess for All Seasons: The Collection, but they felt somewhat rushed because of their shorter lengths.
A Dangerous Seduction , the first novel in the Bow Street Brides series, is an emotional, passionate second-chance romance, and I loved it! I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator, Mary Sarah, does a fabulous job with the characters and accents and really enhanced my enjoyment of the story.
The book cover is a bit off-putting because it doesn’t accurately reflect the time period, but don’t let that keep you from giving this well-written, affecting historical romance a chance.
I’m so glad that I came across this indie author and that she has an extensive backlist because I’m loving her writing style and seasoned voice. I really liked all the novellas in the A Duchess for All Seasons: The Collection, but they felt somewhat rushed because of their shorter lengths.
A Dangerous Seduction , the first novel in the Bow Street Brides series, is an emotional, passionate second-chance romance, and I loved it! I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator, Mary Sarah, does a fabulous job with the characters and accents and really enhanced my enjoyment of the story.
The book cover is a bit off-putting because it doesn’t accurately reflect the time period, but don’t let that keep you from giving this well-written, affecting historical romance a chance.
October 25, 2019
Very different approach to the traditional historical romance.
Lady Scarlett is a naive sixteen year old. She's also a rich, spoiled member of the aristocracy. When she develops a crush on a poor bread baker's son, she embarks on a secret relationship.
But when it comes time to choose between marrying the poor boy she loves, or a wealthy Lord, she jilts her sweet Owen.
This story was enjoyable except I had trouble relating to Scarlett. She was so self absorbed from start to finish. She jilts Owen and breaks his heart. And then years later, she assumes the worse of her best friend and refuses to listen to her.
This was a solid 3 star read and would have ranked higher if Scarlett hadn't been so annoying. I look forward to more of this series and can't wait to read Felicity's story.
Lady Scarlett is a naive sixteen year old. She's also a rich, spoiled member of the aristocracy. When she develops a crush on a poor bread baker's son, she embarks on a secret relationship.
But when it comes time to choose between marrying the poor boy she loves, or a wealthy Lord, she jilts her sweet Owen.
This story was enjoyable except I had trouble relating to Scarlett. She was so self absorbed from start to finish. She jilts Owen and breaks his heart. And then years later, she assumes the worse of her best friend and refuses to listen to her.
This was a solid 3 star read and would have ranked higher if Scarlett hadn't been so annoying. I look forward to more of this series and can't wait to read Felicity's story.
September 28, 2017
A Dangerous Seduction is $3.99 $0.99 cents until 10/1!
If you like enemies-to-lovers, fiesty heroines, devilish heroes, a secondary (and very scandalous) romance, and a good ol' fashioned whodunit, you're going to love this historical romance.
Trust me. ;)
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"There is no point, is there?" Scarlett asked.
Owen's eyes narrowed. "No point to what?" He was trying to listen to what she was saying,but it was rather distracting having her more or less sitting in his lap. It had been manageable when she'd been unconscious, but now that she was awake and squirming...
He knew he could have stood up and set her down on her own two feet, but he wasn't ready to let her go. Not because he enjoyed holding her. No. Of course not.What was the saying? Hold thy friends close and thy enemies closer. Yes. That was it.
His grip tightened, settling Scarlett more snugly into the crook of his arm. There was a smear of dirt above her right brow and another beneath her chin. Her hair was snarled and a button was missing from her jacket. She was a mess, in every sense of the word. And he wanted to kiss her so badly he ached.
"No point to us." Without any warning her gray eyes flooded with tears.
"Stop that," Owen demanded gruffly. He knew it was most likely an act, but seeing her misery so blatantly displayed made him feel as though he'd been punched in the gut.
"Stop what? Showing emotion?" Her laugh was bitter, and just a bit sad. "Not all of us hide behind stone walls, Captain Steel. Some of us actually feel things."
His jaw clenched. Is that what she truly thought? That he was cowering behind a wall made out of stone? If only she knew how much he felt.
Anger. Pain. Resentment.
Yearning. Desire. Lust.
From the second he'd seen her again he had been fighting a war inside of himself. A war he did not know if he wanted to win... or lose.
"I feel more things than you could possibly imagine."
"Oh really?" Her eyes sparked with challenge even as tears continued to roll down her cheeks. Each one that fell cut Owen anew, slicing through his armor as though they were made of daggers instead of salt and water.
"What do you feel," she asked, "besides loathing?"
"This." Lowering his head, he pressed his mouth to hers.....
If you like enemies-to-lovers, fiesty heroines, devilish heroes, a secondary (and very scandalous) romance, and a good ol' fashioned whodunit, you're going to love this historical romance.
Trust me. ;)
♥ Amazon US - http://amzn.to/2iThZXw
♥ Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/2iHxxOt
♥ Amazon DE - http://amzn.to/2r99sma
♥ Amazon AU - http://amzn.to/2rYPFKo
♥ Amazon CA - http://amzn.to/2nEINQf
"There is no point, is there?" Scarlett asked.
Owen's eyes narrowed. "No point to what?" He was trying to listen to what she was saying,but it was rather distracting having her more or less sitting in his lap. It had been manageable when she'd been unconscious, but now that she was awake and squirming...
He knew he could have stood up and set her down on her own two feet, but he wasn't ready to let her go. Not because he enjoyed holding her. No. Of course not.What was the saying? Hold thy friends close and thy enemies closer. Yes. That was it.
His grip tightened, settling Scarlett more snugly into the crook of his arm. There was a smear of dirt above her right brow and another beneath her chin. Her hair was snarled and a button was missing from her jacket. She was a mess, in every sense of the word. And he wanted to kiss her so badly he ached.
"No point to us." Without any warning her gray eyes flooded with tears.
"Stop that," Owen demanded gruffly. He knew it was most likely an act, but seeing her misery so blatantly displayed made him feel as though he'd been punched in the gut.
"Stop what? Showing emotion?" Her laugh was bitter, and just a bit sad. "Not all of us hide behind stone walls, Captain Steel. Some of us actually feel things."
His jaw clenched. Is that what she truly thought? That he was cowering behind a wall made out of stone? If only she knew how much he felt.
Anger. Pain. Resentment.
Yearning. Desire. Lust.
From the second he'd seen her again he had been fighting a war inside of himself. A war he did not know if he wanted to win... or lose.
"I feel more things than you could possibly imagine."
"Oh really?" Her eyes sparked with challenge even as tears continued to roll down her cheeks. Each one that fell cut Owen anew, slicing through his armor as though they were made of daggers instead of salt and water.
"What do you feel," she asked, "besides loathing?"
"This." Lowering his head, he pressed his mouth to hers.....
May 18, 2018
This was an adequate second-chance romance. Nothing more, nothing less. I enjoyed the first half much more because of the build-up and the flashbacks to what once was, but the second half really fell flat. One minute Owen is accusing Scarlett of murdering her husband, and the next, they can't keep their hands off each other. Scarlett wasn't the most likable of characters, especially because of her tendency to jump to conclusions and her inability to see what's right in front of her. Also, I just didn't feel the attraction between Owen and Scarlett. But, I'm willing to give this author another chance, so I've already downloaded A Dangerous Proposal, which features Felicity and Felix from this book. Now there are two people who have chemistry! Let's just hope it holds up in the next book.
June 16, 2017
This is my first book by Eaton. It is an interesting flashback to youth romance mixed with murder mystery.
The Story-
Scarlett fell in love when she was young, but made a decision she learned to regret. When her husband ends up dead, the Bow Street runner who is investigating happens to be the man she rejected all those years ago.
My Thoughts-
These are well-developed characters who have grown up and learned some hard lessons, but I found myself enjoying the flashback love story more than the current one. Scarlett was somewhat too self-absorbed for my taste, and the hero enjoyed punishing her for the past a little too much. That being said, it is entirely entertaining and kept me intrigued.
The Bottom Line-
A different take on a historical with the flashback scenes and the murder mystery. Enjoyable. 4 stars
The Story-
Scarlett fell in love when she was young, but made a decision she learned to regret. When her husband ends up dead, the Bow Street runner who is investigating happens to be the man she rejected all those years ago.
My Thoughts-
These are well-developed characters who have grown up and learned some hard lessons, but I found myself enjoying the flashback love story more than the current one. Scarlett was somewhat too self-absorbed for my taste, and the hero enjoyed punishing her for the past a little too much. That being said, it is entirely entertaining and kept me intrigued.
The Bottom Line-
A different take on a historical with the flashback scenes and the murder mystery. Enjoyable. 4 stars
March 30, 2017
Up until the 50% mark I really liked this book and was intrigued by the hero and heroine but soon after they just got on my nerves. I wish they would have spent more time with each other just talking. As soon as they laid eyes on each other they were this tedious insta-lust I'm so very tired of. I wish we would have seen more of Owen's work as a Bow Street Runner, he was the magistrate after all. So many lost opportunities there, in my opinion.
April 17, 2021
Enjoyable book about a couple who fell in love as teens. Scarlett has second thoughts about living life being poor and makes a decision that haunts her for years. I plan to continue the series.
added-it
April 10, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/10/2021)! 🎁
June 25, 2022
I didn't care or anyone in this book. Too much drama.
March 31, 2017
A Dangerous Seduction ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ written by Jillian Eaton
(Bow Street Brides #1)
I read somewhere that sometimes our lives have to be completely shaken up, changed, and rearranged to relocate us to the place we are meant to be. This is basically the essence of this love story.
Lady Scarlett's Sherwood was a woman of the ton. She love dresses, jewelry and parties. She, however, sacrificed a lot. She sacrificed her true love for materialistic things. Owen Steel was the son of the village baker and both of them were in love. But when Scarlett saw the way she would live married to Owen she chose money.
She never really loved her husband but he provided for her every materialistic wish but that could not make her love him. She realized she married a vile man and was his arm decoration. When he was murdered Scarlett became the prime suspect. The case against her driven by the now Captain Owen Steel of the Bow Street Runners.
When Scarlett met Owen again, all her old feelings come back along with much regret. Owen wants revenge because she left him. Owen still has powerful feelings regarding her.
This was a really good read. I enjoyed the twists and turns during the exploration of the murder. I loved the renewal of an old stronger than strong love.
A Book Obsessed Review Team Selection.
(Bow Street Brides #1)
I read somewhere that sometimes our lives have to be completely shaken up, changed, and rearranged to relocate us to the place we are meant to be. This is basically the essence of this love story.
Lady Scarlett's Sherwood was a woman of the ton. She love dresses, jewelry and parties. She, however, sacrificed a lot. She sacrificed her true love for materialistic things. Owen Steel was the son of the village baker and both of them were in love. But when Scarlett saw the way she would live married to Owen she chose money.
She never really loved her husband but he provided for her every materialistic wish but that could not make her love him. She realized she married a vile man and was his arm decoration. When he was murdered Scarlett became the prime suspect. The case against her driven by the now Captain Owen Steel of the Bow Street Runners.
When Scarlett met Owen again, all her old feelings come back along with much regret. Owen wants revenge because she left him. Owen still has powerful feelings regarding her.
This was a really good read. I enjoyed the twists and turns during the exploration of the murder. I loved the renewal of an old stronger than strong love.
A Book Obsessed Review Team Selection.
June 23, 2019
Always Owen🐺💕
Victorian Era Adult Romance💕 and Murder💀 Mystery
An Earl's daughter, Scarlett💃💋, sees the young man she wants when she's only 16, but Owen Steel🐺 is a vendor selling bread in the market at the time. She can't marry a commoner!
Scarlett💃💋 ends up marrying Roger👺, Viscount Sherwood, because he is tall and handsome and seems caring at the time. But just a few years later and he's a drunken sot who does nothing but argue with her and even mistreats her at times. The handsome man is gone to fat, blotchy skin, and thinning hair from his drinking.
The final straw was When she caught him with her bff, Felicity. Now Scarlett💃💔 and Roger👺 only act civil when out at functions or visiting.
Seven years she's been married, but Scarlett💃💋💔 has never forgotten Owen🐺💔.......
When Roger👺 is found dead💀, supposedly from a fall from his horse🐎, none other than Owen Stee!🐺🔫 comes to inform her of the suspicious death! He is now Captain Steel🐺🔫 of the Bow Street Runners!
Seven years are like seven seconds to Scarlett💃💋....
Wonderfully plotted and written Romance💕. I was enthralled from start to finish!
Victorian Era Adult Romance💕 and Murder💀 Mystery
An Earl's daughter, Scarlett💃💋, sees the young man she wants when she's only 16, but Owen Steel🐺 is a vendor selling bread in the market at the time. She can't marry a commoner!
Scarlett💃💋 ends up marrying Roger👺, Viscount Sherwood, because he is tall and handsome and seems caring at the time. But just a few years later and he's a drunken sot who does nothing but argue with her and even mistreats her at times. The handsome man is gone to fat, blotchy skin, and thinning hair from his drinking.
The final straw was When she caught him with her bff, Felicity. Now Scarlett💃💔 and Roger👺 only act civil when out at functions or visiting.
Seven years she's been married, but Scarlett💃💋💔 has never forgotten Owen🐺💔.......
When Roger👺 is found dead💀, supposedly from a fall from his horse🐎, none other than Owen Stee!🐺🔫 comes to inform her of the suspicious death! He is now Captain Steel🐺🔫 of the Bow Street Runners!
Seven years are like seven seconds to Scarlett💃💋....
Wonderfully plotted and written Romance💕. I was enthralled from start to finish!
June 26, 2019
A Dangerous Seduction is book 1 in The Bow Street Brides series by Jillian Eaton. I really enjoyed this book. It has romance, murder and mystery and humor all rolled up into one package. I liked the heroine Lady Scarlett Sherwood. She is honest and incredibly sassy at times. Captain Owen Steel is a bit of a mystery at first. He’s been betrayed in the past and isn’t ready to give up the defenses of his heart when he meets Scarlett again. There are some sizzling steamy scenes. And an unusual twist towards the end of the book that I wasn’t expecting. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
September 2, 2019
Owen is a magistrate, who deals with a former crush that he felt left him in the dust, for money and power. This book had a great build up, but the second half was more about anger, to gratification by sex. Yawn. Since they were trying to find their way again, and a murderer, it seemed talking more should have been in order. It was just okay. I have read other books by her , that I liked better. The time period, plus his past hurts, and how he practically put a noose around her throat, for her husband's death does not equal mad passionate love. So many books use this formula, as if they have run out of banter, between the characters. It was a kindle unlimited so, it is fine. 3 stars.
July 1, 2017
When Lady Scarlett Sherwood's husband is found dead, Captain of the Bow Street Runners Owen Steel believes she is the guilty party. But they have shared a past that blinds him.
It was an enjoyable enough story but would have preferred much more mystery and less of the romance.
Several things did distract from the story for me, as far as accuracy is concerned, which is why I didn't give it 3 stars - in this time period divorces were expensive and a long protracted process, not started and finished within a couple of months. I can't imagine there is any place in Surrey which was a four day carriage ride from London. Hampshire is not to the east of Surrey, and in England there is a ground floor beneath the first floor.
It was an enjoyable enough story but would have preferred much more mystery and less of the romance.
Several things did distract from the story for me, as far as accuracy is concerned, which is why I didn't give it 3 stars - in this time period divorces were expensive and a long protracted process, not started and finished within a couple of months. I can't imagine there is any place in Surrey which was a four day carriage ride from London. Hampshire is not to the east of Surrey, and in England there is a ground floor beneath the first floor.
October 2, 2018
Most enjoyable read. 4☆
August 17, 2017
A SOLID 3.5 STARS!
I am actually glad this one didn't have the sort of angst that makes me feel like shit after.
The HEA was well executed for me, as a reader since I have read many similar stories like this....maybe I'm just sick of the unsatisfying HEA that leaves a heartbreak.
OUR HERO's love story with our heroine is a typical rich girl and poor boy troupe based in historical London. Years ago, the love of his life chose another over him and with his bitterness, he worked himself to the bone rising through the ranks and finally becoming a runner. Dedicated to his work, Owen he cannot believe his luck when he stumbles upon Scarlett's dead husband, immediately suspecting her of murder when her earring was found at the scene of the crime. Of course, a love so deep will never truly leave a person and he finds many excuses to meet the recently widowed Scarlett with motives of investigating her alibi. One thing led to another and soon they were on the road to renewed passion and a reunion. It's a pretty straightforward love-hate romance. I like the way the met, despite the heroine being a super flirt...it wouldn't have been nice if she turned those charms on anyone else other than Owen...it would have shoved her into a bad light.
OUR HEROINE was once a flighty young sixteen year old who chose a rich Lord to marry over the lover of her life, a baker's son. Years later, maturing into a seasoned woman, she is filled with loathsome regret for the foolish mistake she made, constantly having Owen in the back of her mind. When her husband is murdered, and Owen comes bearing the bad news as well as accusing her of possibly killing her own husband, she is appalled yet perhaps there was still a chance that they can still repair old wounds and finally be together. I enjoyed seeing her struggle to win back Owen's affections although be warned that he never truly forgot or hated her. As the two rekindle their old flame, the killer slowly comes into the limelight and you'll sort of feel...'WHAT? That's it?" Well, I was more invested in the characters' relationship so I can I can let that part slide.
OVERALL I'm just glad it wasn't too angsty that I wanted to throw my entire ebook against the wall. It had a nice balance of predictability and love-hate bickering that just made it thoroughly enjoyable. I will be looking forward to reading Felix and Felicity's story.
I am actually glad this one didn't have the sort of angst that makes me feel like shit after.
The HEA was well executed for me, as a reader since I have read many similar stories like this....maybe I'm just sick of the unsatisfying HEA that leaves a heartbreak.
OUR HERO's love story with our heroine is a typical rich girl and poor boy troupe based in historical London. Years ago, the love of his life chose another over him and with his bitterness, he worked himself to the bone rising through the ranks and finally becoming a runner. Dedicated to his work, Owen he cannot believe his luck when he stumbles upon Scarlett's dead husband, immediately suspecting her of murder when her earring was found at the scene of the crime. Of course, a love so deep will never truly leave a person and he finds many excuses to meet the recently widowed Scarlett with motives of investigating her alibi. One thing led to another and soon they were on the road to renewed passion and a reunion. It's a pretty straightforward love-hate romance. I like the way the met, despite the heroine being a super flirt...it wouldn't have been nice if she turned those charms on anyone else other than Owen...it would have shoved her into a bad light.
OUR HEROINE was once a flighty young sixteen year old who chose a rich Lord to marry over the lover of her life, a baker's son. Years later, maturing into a seasoned woman, she is filled with loathsome regret for the foolish mistake she made, constantly having Owen in the back of her mind. When her husband is murdered, and Owen comes bearing the bad news as well as accusing her of possibly killing her own husband, she is appalled yet perhaps there was still a chance that they can still repair old wounds and finally be together. I enjoyed seeing her struggle to win back Owen's affections although be warned that he never truly forgot or hated her. As the two rekindle their old flame, the killer slowly comes into the limelight and you'll sort of feel...'WHAT? That's it?" Well, I was more invested in the characters' relationship so I can I can let that part slide.
OVERALL I'm just glad it wasn't too angsty that I wanted to throw my entire ebook against the wall. It had a nice balance of predictability and love-hate bickering that just made it thoroughly enjoyable. I will be looking forward to reading Felix and Felicity's story.
March 13, 2021
This is the second full-length book I've read by this author. I liked a previous novella she wrote; maybe she should stick with plots of that length. I thought her most recent book was disappointing but wanted to give her another chance. I typically enjoy mysteries and Regencies featuring detectives. But this book barely earns 2 stars from me. Silly dialog, impulsive, spoiled heroine who constantly has to be saved by the hero and spurns her poor best friend time after time, suspecting her of doing awful things. The heroine is actually the very definition of a toxic person. (BTW it looks like the friend, Felicity, is the heroine of the next book. I hope she is given some kind of reprieve because she can't catch a break in this book).
The most cringe-worthy conversation takes place when Felicity reveals what happened to her years before and the heroine keeps asking, "Why didn't you tell me?", while flashbacks showed that she outright refused to talk to Felicity after the traumatic event happened. In fact, she kicked Felicity out of her house in a fury, leaving her friend to deal with the trauma on her own.
The many flashbacks merely serve to drag down the plot. The only element here that barely works is the hero, but his feelings are merely skimmed over while the heroine has her little fits. He deserves to be transplanted to a better book.
Language is PG-rated. There is pre-marital sex (a fairly ridiculously-timed scene) and the heroine spends more time lusting after the hero than she does trying to save her own skin.
The most cringe-worthy conversation takes place when Felicity reveals what happened to her years before and the heroine keeps asking, "Why didn't you tell me?", while flashbacks showed that she outright refused to talk to Felicity after the traumatic event happened. In fact, she kicked Felicity out of her house in a fury, leaving her friend to deal with the trauma on her own.
The many flashbacks merely serve to drag down the plot. The only element here that barely works is the hero, but his feelings are merely skimmed over while the heroine has her little fits. He deserves to be transplanted to a better book.
Language is PG-rated. There is pre-marital sex (a fairly ridiculously-timed scene) and the heroine spends more time lusting after the hero than she does trying to save her own skin.
May 23, 2017
This was my first Jillian Eaton book, and I think it was a great read. I felt like I was in the story with the characters and I enjoyed every page of it.
This story follows Scarlett who is in an unhappy marriage. She regrets her decision that she made seven years ago to choose between a man she loved and a man who was rich. She hasn’t seen Owen since that day. Now all of a sudden he’s back in London. Her husband is dead. Owen is investigating his possible murder. And Scarlett is a suspect.
The synopsis alone with enough to peak my interest, but as soon as I started reading I was hooked. This is one of those historical romances that has a little bit of suspense woven in. There were so many questions that I thought I had answers to, and then the author would throw a loop in the story and it would open up more questions for me. The chemistry she wrote between Owen and Scarlett was so strong. This is their second chance at love, but understandably oh and is not as eager to take that chance at Scarlett. She broke his heart seven years ago so he’s not wanting to get it broken again. The pacing of the book was great; I think I read the entire thing in one day because I just didn’t want to put it down. If you are a fan of historical romances then you need to check out this book.
This story follows Scarlett who is in an unhappy marriage. She regrets her decision that she made seven years ago to choose between a man she loved and a man who was rich. She hasn’t seen Owen since that day. Now all of a sudden he’s back in London. Her husband is dead. Owen is investigating his possible murder. And Scarlett is a suspect.
The synopsis alone with enough to peak my interest, but as soon as I started reading I was hooked. This is one of those historical romances that has a little bit of suspense woven in. There were so many questions that I thought I had answers to, and then the author would throw a loop in the story and it would open up more questions for me. The chemistry she wrote between Owen and Scarlett was so strong. This is their second chance at love, but understandably oh and is not as eager to take that chance at Scarlett. She broke his heart seven years ago so he’s not wanting to get it broken again. The pacing of the book was great; I think I read the entire thing in one day because I just didn’t want to put it down. If you are a fan of historical romances then you need to check out this book.
July 3, 2025
I listened to the audiobook version of this title and it was awful!
1. The story was basic and puerile. If it was supposed to represent how Bow Street Runners performed their tasks, then it was either naive or infantile. Certainly disingenuous.
2. The narrator cannot annunciate correctly. Practically Every Word that had a letter ‘A’ or ‘E’ in it, was spoken incorrectly. I’m horrified that she was paid to narrate this.
3. The book was written and read as if it were a fairy tale! Overly light and fluffy, in one scene or overly light and dramatic in another. The story of itself was so poor, it deserved its awful narrator!
4. This is currently a free selection in the Audible Plus catalogue. It’s not worth paying for, please do not purchase.
5. I’ve subsequently read reviews by others who probably read the book. Perhaps it comes across far better when just pure prose or perhaps the main audience have been North American, because British audiences would not have credited half of the behaviour, attitudes or surmises demonstrated in this piece of prose.
1. The story was basic and puerile. If it was supposed to represent how Bow Street Runners performed their tasks, then it was either naive or infantile. Certainly disingenuous.
2. The narrator cannot annunciate correctly. Practically Every Word that had a letter ‘A’ or ‘E’ in it, was spoken incorrectly. I’m horrified that she was paid to narrate this.
3. The book was written and read as if it were a fairy tale! Overly light and fluffy, in one scene or overly light and dramatic in another. The story of itself was so poor, it deserved its awful narrator!
4. This is currently a free selection in the Audible Plus catalogue. It’s not worth paying for, please do not purchase.
5. I’ve subsequently read reviews by others who probably read the book. Perhaps it comes across far better when just pure prose or perhaps the main audience have been North American, because British audiences would not have credited half of the behaviour, attitudes or surmises demonstrated in this piece of prose.
September 30, 2017
Bravo! Excellent love story AND an excellent whodunnit story. Lady Scarlett is the prime suspect in her husband's murder. Owen is the lead detective in the case. The problem is, Owen & Scarlett have a heart breaking history that occurred ten years ago. All this is set in England during the days of Hyde Park, The Season in London and the so called "important" connection of landing a titled husband. This era always fascinates me so I was caught up in the back stories of both Owen & Scarlett. The mystery of the killer was interesting and challenging and the clues led me to the guilty party. Unfortunately, I was WRONG and surprised by the shocking twist! Loved it!! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Five stars.
January 9, 2018
A wonderful story of a second chance at love!
This is my first book by this author. And, I really couldn't put the book down!
Owen and Scarlett's story was very heartwarming and touching. It was sad when I learned how they separated. I was so happy that they came over all the odds and found a way to forgive each other and find love again.
I just wish the story was a tad bit longer. I was absolutely enjoying it. Watching the two bicker with each other, and then loving on each other the next.
The ending made me chuckle the part where Felicity meets another Runner. They were so cute and I just found out the next book is about them so I will surely be buying that book next!♡
This is my first book by this author. And, I really couldn't put the book down!
Owen and Scarlett's story was very heartwarming and touching. It was sad when I learned how they separated. I was so happy that they came over all the odds and found a way to forgive each other and find love again.
I just wish the story was a tad bit longer. I was absolutely enjoying it. Watching the two bicker with each other, and then loving on each other the next.
The ending made me chuckle the part where Felicity meets another Runner. They were so cute and I just found out the next book is about them so I will surely be buying that book next!♡
May 6, 2021
Lady Scarlett, immature and self-absorbed, Owen Steel, angry and bitter. They were to marry seven years ago, but Scarlett left him to wed a rich, titled man after considering how her life would change as a wife to the poor son of a baker. She was only 16 and didn't want to give up her friends, parties, fancy dresses, and security. She suffers an unhappy marriage until her husband is murdered. Owen, now a Bow Street Runner, plans to prove she is the murderer. The soothing cadence of Mary Sarah's excellent narration enlivens the story. Scarlett stays immature and unlikeable to the end and I think Owen caved too easily from hatred back to love but c'est la vie. I'm moving on to book two and I'm happy to see Mary Sarah is again the narrator.
September 25, 2017
This is the first book in the Bow Street Brides Series and starts the series off on a high note. Can passion and chemistry overtake revenge. Years ago Owen was heartbroken and humiliated when Scarlet rejected him for a wealthy man. Determined to get revenge, that's his plan, but one kiss is all it took. Memories flooded back of what they once had. Then she's the main suspect in her husband's murder and they're not safe. The real murderer is on the loose and coming for them. Lots of drama and suspense to keep you page turning. A great historical romance that can be read in an afternoon. I received an advance copy and voluntarily chose to review this book. Can't wait for book #2,
December 6, 2017
After reading a rave review about this historical, I was disappointed in it. I liked the sound of the plot- a young woman chooses someone of her class to marry rather than the boy she loved. Years later, her husband is found dead, and the boy is a Bow Street Runner who is investigating the death. The young woman is now a suspect. Sounded right up my alley. I could ignore the kitschy cover but I thought that the characters spoke and acted like modern teenagers, the mystery was poorly developed and the couple’s past told in flashbacks seemed to me incomplete . I couldn’t help feeling that this was a poor man’s Lisa Kleypass with none of her subtlety or complexity.
June 27, 2019
The premise of this book sounded great, so I purchased it for $0.99. Despite the interesting premise, the execution could have been much better. I had some problems with the story itself, in particular the too quick resolution of the conflict between the heroine and her best friend, and the conflict between the hero and heroine. Characters were not fully developed and sometimes stereotypes -- like the scheming mother incapable of love. However, the appalling number of grammatical errors (e.g., possessives, misuse of "to" and "too") and anachronisms ("Ms." was not a common term of address until well into the 20th century) really took me out of the book.
July 27, 2019
A disappointment. Emotionally immature hero and heroine, angry sex, clichéd dialog and plot points, and a murderer who . And the thing that made me want to throw the book against the wall was the setup for the next book. A disgraced mother, whose husband left and divorced her for another woman, comes across a man rifling through the heroine’s jewelry. He menaces her and flirts with her, calling her “love” over and over, until he reveals he is a thief turned Runner, kisses her, and leaves. Very believable, that scene. *sarcasm* I won’t be reading book two.
January 3, 2022
Stopped at 37%; neither protagonist is likable
I feel like this book is an echo of classism from the same period as Gatsby, and the weird sexist tone is there as well. The female protagonist is beautiful but a bitter spoiled brat. The men are angry and entitled. At the 37% point, there is no real romance at all in the book. The characters are rude to each other and can have each other or not; I just don’t care for either of them.
The author needs to learn how to use commas properly, to avoid back story dumping, and how to write engaging characters that the reader wants to root for.
I feel like this book is an echo of classism from the same period as Gatsby, and the weird sexist tone is there as well. The female protagonist is beautiful but a bitter spoiled brat. The men are angry and entitled. At the 37% point, there is no real romance at all in the book. The characters are rude to each other and can have each other or not; I just don’t care for either of them.
The author needs to learn how to use commas properly, to avoid back story dumping, and how to write engaging characters that the reader wants to root for.
February 18, 2019
Only 3 stars
Plot was pretty good and villain was not who you'd expect it to be. That said, I don't think if I was her supposedly beat friend, I would be as forgiving as she. Heroine was pretty much spoilt (much like her Mother) and I couldn't find much to like about her nor could I root for her. The other thing I didn't like was the constant back and forth between the last and present. Here's hoping the other books of the Bow Street Brides will produce Heroines and Heroes that are likable.
Plot was pretty good and villain was not who you'd expect it to be. That said, I don't think if I was her supposedly beat friend, I would be as forgiving as she. Heroine was pretty much spoilt (much like her Mother) and I couldn't find much to like about her nor could I root for her. The other thing I didn't like was the constant back and forth between the last and present. Here's hoping the other books of the Bow Street Brides will produce Heroines and Heroes that are likable.
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