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Historical Hellions

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From bluestockings to scandalous heiresses, these strong-willed, unconventional historical romance heroines don't let anything stand in their way when it comes to love and happily ever after. Featuring seven novellas and novels from award-winning and bestselling authors.

The Pursuit of Pleasure by Elizabeth Essex
Independent, politically-minded heiress Elizabeth Paxton has never wanted to marry, but longs for the freedom afforded to widows. The last thing she wants is dangerously attractive Captain Jameson Marlowe as a husband.

The Thief Steals Her Earl by Christina McKnight
The Earl of Cartwright is determined to find out who stole from his family. When he finds out the thief is the woman he's fallen in love with, he must choose between duty and love.

Secrets in Scarlet by Erica Monroe
When a bluestocking with a scandalous past meets an idealistic sergeant, sparks fly as they work to solve a murder...but her secrets may lead to their undoing.

Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua
Inspired by the tale of Sleeping Beauty--a scorching hot historical romance novella from the Fiery Tales series. One sleeping rake, one scorching kiss, one night of unforgettable passion...

The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards
A spinster finds freedom as a theatre set painter until a chance meeting with the marquis who broke her heart has her questioning what she wants for her future.

The Madam's Highlander by Madeline Martin
What's the madam of a successful bawdy house in Edinburgh to do when she finds one of the English supported Black Watch soldiers needing to desert his post? She helps him, of course - but there's a high price to pay.

Reckless Wager by Christy Carlyle
Victorian propriety and passions collide when a beautiful widow makes a wager with a wounded police detective bent on solving the Ripper mystery.

1587 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 11, 2017

102 people are currently reading
155 people want to read

About the author

Elizabeth Essex

45 books332 followers
When not re-reading Jane Austen, sipping tea or mucking about her garden, Elizabeth Essex can be found at her computer, making up wonderful stories about people who live far more interesting lives than she.
Elizabeth Essex

It wasn’t always so. Elizabeth graduated from Hollins College with a BA in Classical Studies and Art History, and then earned her MA from Texas A&M University in Nautical Archaeology, also known as the archaeology of shipwrecks. While Elizabeth loved the life of a working archaeologist, after writing and reading all those dry, dusty reports on ship construction, she would daydream about how lovely it would have been if only someone had fallen in love on just one of those ships. And so now she writes stories about just that.

Elizabeth lives in Texas with her family, in a house filled to the brim with books.

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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,992 reviews16 followers
April 9, 2017
Historical Hellions: Seven Historical Romances!
What a great box set!! This has all of my favorite authors in this set. But if for some reason you haven't read some of the authors work...this is a must have. This book is about 1587 pages so they are mostly full length books.
Here is the list of books you get:
1. The Pursuit of Pleasure by Elizabeth Essex is book One in the Dartmouth Brides series.
James and Lizzie were once childhood friends but then James went left he didn't come back for 10 years. Now he is back and thinks to marry Lizzie to keep his estate safe while he is on a mission. But unknown to her she thinks she is marrying him and just a back up plan if something does happen to him. But this deception leads to Lizzie getting into trouble and when her husband comes back she makes him aware of all the damage he has done. Can he get her to ever forgive him?
2. The Thief Steals Her Earl by Christina McKnight is book One in the "Craven House" Series.
This is the story of Simon Montgomery, the Earl of Cartwright and Judith Pengarden. Judith and her twin sister Sam has taken to stealing to secretly help out there oldest sister who is like a mother to them and has also been helping abused women. Judith and Sam realized that their sister is in need of money to keep the house and to help others. So this takes Judith to break into a house were they steal a vase they can't get rid of and at one outing was spotted by a young girl. So Judith happens to meet Simon who dabbles in art, antiques and such. Judith thinks to get closer to him and see if he can help sale the vase. Simon is bookish, quiet and is not that popular with the town..but does have a reputation for Art and antiques. When he meets Judith he finds her to be smart than most women he runs into and she seems to be interested in what he likes too. So Simon starts a friendship of sorts with Judith.
3. Secrets in Scarlet by Erica Monroe is book Two in the "The Rookery Rogues" series.
Sergeant Thaddeus Knight of the Metropolitan Police has come to look into a murder at a London Factory. Poppy O'Reilly is hiding something but nothing to do with murder. But with Thaddaeus looking around for information will he find out what she is hiding?
4. Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua is book Four in the 'Fiery Tales" series.
Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain is a known Rake and five years ago he was surprised by Catherine ( although he didn't know her name back then). She came to him in his sleep and created the best 'sex' that he ever had ..then left before finding out her name. . Adrien has never forgotten her and has been search to find her. Five years later his half sister was asking him to distract a women that is engaged to her "protector". Adrien has not intended to do such a thing for his sister but once he sees Catherine he know she was the lady five years ago. So he goes after Catherine for his own purpose.
5. The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards
A spinster finds freedom as a theater set painter until a chance meeting with the marquis who broke her heart has her questioning what she wants for her future.
6. The Madam’s Highlander by Madeline Martin
What’s the madam of a successful bawdy house in Edinburgh to do when she finds one of the English supported Black Watch soldiers needing to desert his post? She helps him, of course – but there’s a high price to pay.
7. Reckless Wager by Christy Carlyle is part of the "A Whitechapel Wagers" series.
Victorian propriety and passions collide when a beautiful widow makes a wager with a wounded police detective bent on solving the Ripper mystery.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Profile Image for Kelly Marie.
429 reviews24 followers
June 15, 2017
This box set is perfect! *I received a copy in exchange for my honest reviews

The Pursuit of Pleasure by Elizabeth Essex

Another up until 2 AM read! This one is steamy and will give you chills for many reasons. I love a story with smugglers, secrets, and a bit of mystery. You will be hooked from the start like I was because you know right away how they will be with each other. I had my suspicions from the start about who was involved in the smuggling and was partially right. Some favorites include her a shooting and the twists surrounding everything. The ending was perfect.

Lizzie is definitely opinionated, educated and voices her thoughts to anyone. She comes off as a wild child many times, but also is very stubborn and doesn't always think thing through. I did love her for fighting things she believed in and her struggle to be true to herself.

Jamie (Jameson) convinced himself that everything was apart of his plan and nothing else, but from the start, you know the truth. I loved him right away because he had a hint of mystery to him and also spoke his mind. He is on a mission that isn't quite going to plan in many ways.

I highly recommend this one.

The Thief Steals Her Earl by Christina McKnight

This one will definitely keep you guessing at times. I was never sure what was going to happen and when it would happen throughout the book. They both were doing what they could to help their families just one wasn't a good idea. Their families are very unique and different, but lovable. I loved the ending a ton and how everyone reacted.

Jude is a very smart lady. I did love that she wanted to help her family no matter what. When she set her mind to something she did it even if it wasn't for herself. She is a bit quieter than most, but not really shy.

Simon is the shyer one out of the two. I loved how awkward he could be and how smart he was. He definitely has had his struggles but is determined to take care of his sister and make sure his family is restored.

I really wanted to know more about his sister and mother. The same for her sister and trips.

Secrets in Scarlet by Erica Monroe

Erica is an excellent writer! Just when I thought I knew who all was involved in the murder and crime there was an unexpected twist to it and I wasn't sure anymore that I knew the answer. This book will keep you on your toes with the mystery and romance. I loved learning about the police and factory and I was able to picture everything. I was sucked in from the start when the girl kept drawing an "L" on her dress and by how much Thaddeus wanted to solve the murder. I also wanted to know more the other murder he talked about.

I wanted to hug Poppy so much because she didn't trust anyone. The more I learned about what happened to her the more I felt for her and wanted to see someone confront the man over it. Normally I don't like a heroine that ignores her feelings and does the things she does, but she has good reason to be like that. She is a brave woman who loves with all her heart and will blame herself when it's not her fault.

Thaddeus is someone that you will instantly love. He did not have the background that I expected him to have. He is very kind and caring and a bookworm and when you meet his family you are even more shocked that he is so kind and caring. When he started talking about Shakspere it made me love him more because it was a natural part of him and he didn't use it to get what he wanted. He is not quick to judge anyone and thinks about things differently than most.

Again I loved the history involved in the story and wanted to know more about the gentleman thief. towards the end, I wanted to know more about Strickland because he was not the kind of man I thought he was in the beginning and can't wait to read more about him.

Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua

Normally I don't like ones at this spice level, but I loved this one. I loved that it was set in France, that there was a small mystery surrounding that night, and a twist at the end I did expect. There is a lot of steam in this one, but enough of a story to balance it out for me.

Catherine had her reasons for what she did five years ago and the memory of that night has stayed with her. Once she told her whole story everything made sense and I loved her.

Adrien is not shy at all about the life he lives, but he is still loveable. There is something about how he wanted answers about that night that makes you love him because it wasn't for bad reasons.

Reckless Wager by Christy Carlyle

I love the setting of this one! I never was sure what was going to happen with them because they both and things in their pasts that affected them. I loved that they were both going to help Rose and the wager they had. The ending was perfect and I didn't want to put it down.

Kate survived her first marriage and didn't believe in love anymore. Every time the guy she was thinking of marrying came around I wanted to scream no! I wanted to jump and down when she realized you could love again.

Benjamin had a passion for his job. I loved him and his sister and the how much he loved his job. I wasn't expecting his reasons for never going home or what his boss told him. I was very happy in the end about where they were going.

The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards

This one is a bit different and I loved it. I loved that I didn’t really know what was going to happen for sure in this one. They both had changed in the few years since they last saw each other and fate brought them back together. I loved when they both got made and told people off.

Beth is stubborn and not always for the best reasons. She tended to blame herself for things and needed Micheal to make her see herself and lift her up. I felt for her from the start because she seemed so real in how she felt.

Micheal has been searching for Beth for a long time. He never stopped loving her and saw her worth when others didn’t always. I loved that he didn’t care about doing what his father wanted and followed his heart.

The Madam’s Highlander by Madeline Martin

This was amazing! It was very different because she was a madam and that it showed the darker side of things. I loved how they interacted with each other and how they kind of evened each other out. It was a quick read that I wish was longer because I wanted more. I loved the ending and that everyone found happiness.

Freya wouldn’t hesitate to injure or kill someone if needed. I loved her because she was very different and that she had a secret that you wouldn’t expect. The moment she threated the one guy I knew she was going to be a favorite.

Ewan did what he thought was best to protect his mother. I loved the way he thought about things and what he did when he needed to think. When he told them to go I didn’t know what would happen to him.
Profile Image for Tracy Emro.
2,129 reviews64 followers
January 2, 2018
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for a copy of this book that was provided to me by the author*

This was a great set!

The Pursuit of Pleasure - Elizabeth Essex - Full Length Novel - 4 Stars: This is the story of Lizzie and James. They were friends in their youth before James disappeared for 10 years. He is back and offers Lizzie what she has always wanted - to be a widow! The book is good, but feels a little disjointed. I know Lizzie and Jamie are in love, but the story really lacked romance - but that was more about the personalities of Lizzie and Jamie than any flaw in the writing. They simply are not lovey-dovey type of characters.

The Thief Steals Her Earl - Christina McKnight - Full Length Novel - No Rating - I did not read this book.

Secrets In Scarlet - Erica Monroe - Full Length Novel - 5 Stars: This is the story of Poppy and Thaddaeus. Poppy is a single mother trying to do the best she can for her daughter and Thaddaeus is the police sergeant trying to solve a murder. Poppy tries hard to keep Thaddaeus out of her life, but he will not be swayed. When danger threatens and secrets are revealed - I fell in love with Thaddaeus - he was a perfect hero. His love for Poppy was beautiful and unconditional. He made this book for me. Poppy was a good heroine and I understand her need to protect her daughter - but I think she could have trusted Thaddaeus with the truth much sooner than she did.

Sleeping Beau - Lila DiPasqua - Novella - 5 Stars: This book was scorching hot - I a surprised my kindle didn't melt - HOT! I loved this story - it might be my favorite in the set! This is a very, very loose interpretation of Sleeping Beauty. Adrien and Catherine shared a night of passion years ago - but Adrien never knew who the woman was and she has haunted his dreams since then. Catherine had her reasons for seducing Adrien 5 years ago - but she had no idea who he was. She is now a widow on the cusp of remarriage when she meets Adrien again. They immediately recognize each other, but Catherine steadfastly refuses to acknowledge their prior meeting. When Adrien finally gets the truth, Catherine agrees to be his lover until her betrothed arrives. They spend several HOT nights and days together and when Catherine's intended shows up early, they are dismayed - neither is ready to say good-bye. Adrien lets Catherine go and it seems that there will be no HEA - but the author throws in a shocking twist that changes everything!

The Art of Seduction - Eileen Richards - Long Novella - 4 Stars: This book was a bit different than I imagined it would be from the blurb. It is about lost loves reuniting, Beth and Michael were in love but lost touch when Michael was called home to attend his dying mother. Five years later they meet again by chance and this time Michael is not going to let Beth slip away. This book really explored the social class differences in the era and the struggles young unmarried women faced. There is a love story, but it seemed downplayed in comparison to the social issues. I really liked Ms. Richards writing style and will definitely read more of her work!

The Madam's Highlander - Madeline Martin - Long Novella - 5 Stars: This was the lone Scottish offering in the collection and it was fantastic! Ewan Fraser is a member of the Black Watch, he joined in hopes of redeeming his honor after his father was hung as a traitor. Freya is the owner of a brothel and loathes the English and the Black Watch - so when Ewan asks Freya for help - she refuses. Desperate to save his mother he does the only thing he can - he threatens hers! Furious Freya has no choice but to agree. When she goes to his home and finds it burned and his mother hiding from the Redcoats, she takes his mother to her home. When Ewan learns of her fate, he renounces his service to the Black Watch and becomes a fugitive. Freya agrees to take him to his mother. When they arrive at her home they are confronted with an English solider and Freya tells him Ewan is her husband. These two slowly form a bond and fall in love. When Ewan is discovered and all hell breaks loose - he sacrifices his freedom to save the woman he loves. It seems all hope is lost and months pass without word of his fate. I don't know how she did it - but Ms. Martin turned it all around in the last chapter and accomplished what seemed impossible just a few pages before - a touching and believable HEA!

Reckless Wager - Christy Carlyle - Long Novella - 5 stars: This story was amazing! Set in Victorian England in Whitechapel - it was not your traditional Victorian romance. Kate has been widowed for 10 years and is considering getting married, but the abuse she suffered in her first marriage still haunts her and she doesn't really want to give up her volunteer work in Whitechapel has her second guessing her decision. She meets Detective Sergeant Benjamin Quinn when a young woman comes into the clinic and claims she was assaulted by Jack the Ripper. The young woman, Rose, refuses to talk to anyone from the police, save Ben. Kate tracks him down at a pub and agrees to go to his flat to talk. Ben is drunk and ends up passing out, when Kate goes to leave, he briefly wakes and they share a heart stopping kiss. Kate leaves never expecting to see him again - but she wants to! These two cross paths again and Kate concocts the "wager" to make Ben include her in the search for Rose. The more time they spend together - the more they want. Ben has been hurt before, by choosing to join the MET, he lost the woman he hoped to marry and the relationship with his family became estranged. He has sworn off women and love, but he is drawn to Kate. I really loved this story, it is well written, well researched and paced perfectly.

I really enjoyed this collection and would highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Pat.
358 reviews
May 6, 2017
Updated review for complete box set:

Book 1: The Pursuit of Pleasure by Elizabeth Essex - 5 Stars
Elizabeth Paxton gets more than she bargained for when Capt. Jameson Marlowe comes back into her life - adventure, independence, sorrow, rapture and possibly love. This was an exciting read that was full of emotion, suspense and intrigue along with a nice twist. Very enjoyable read!

Book 2: The Thief Steals Her Earl by Christina McKnight - 5 Stars
What would you do if you thought that your family had big money problems? Would you become a thief? What would you risk to help your family?
Miss Judith Pengarden's (Jude) family seems to be having money problems. Simon Montgomery, The Earl of Cartwright (Cart) has been struggling to restore his family's antiquities and financial health caused by a corrupt uncle. They are attracted to each other, but there are hidden secrets that could tear them apart. If these secrets are uncovered will it be the demise of their relationship? Jude and Cart have more in common than they realize. Things could fall apart never to be the same again.
The story is complex and well-written. It has a nice blend of humor, drama and romance. It was hard to put down, because I could not wait to see what happened next. The main characters are smart and courageous and very amusing. Both have their vulnerabilities which make them very endearing. Very enjoyable and entertaining read!

Book 3: Secrets in Scarlet by Erica Monroe - 4 Stars
This story is a thrilling mystery romance which involves Thaddeus Knight (police officer) and Poppy O'Reilly (weaver). Thaddeus is working to solve a murder when he meets Poppy, and he believes that she might be able to help him. He is also very attracted to her so he figures he can kill two birds with one stone - solve the murder and get the girl!
Thaddeus is an awesome hero. I loved his character. Poppy was sweet but a strong and fierce heroine. The story was well written with very vivid and realistic descriptions that made the story come alive. The characters are complex and well-developed. There are characters who are villains, and you will hope that they get what they deserve. Of course, that remains to be seen! I enjoyed this book immensely and look forward to the next installment.

Book 4: Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua - 5 Stars
One scandalous night five years ago has haunted both of the dreams of Adrien, the Marquis de Beaulain (Beau) and Catherine de Villecourt and now they meet again. Will their reunion be a welcome one? After all, five years have gone by and their lives have moved forward, and the lady is now betrothed to another man. There are questions about that night that need to be answered, and the lady is not willing to answer them. Beau is determined to get those answers at any cost, and the story gets very interesting.
This is a very entertaining read with well-developed and very interesting characters. The story is well-written with just the right amount of sizzle. I look forward to reading more from this very talented author.

Book 5: The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards - 4 Stars
Beth is the daughter of a famous artist. Michael, the son of the Duke of Stafford, mentored with Beth's father. When Beth's father died it made her the only source of income for herself and her mother. The end result was that they fell upon hard times and had to begin a new life at a lower station. When Michael meets her again he wants to help her. Even though there is a connection between them Beth believes he is above her station, and she wants to remain detached and independent.
This is a very nice love story with likable characters, with the exceptions of Michael's father and Beth's mother. Michael's father is not likable at all, and Beth's mother is just too annoying to like. The story is well-written and has a steady pace. Read the story to find out if they get their HEA.

Book 6: The Madam's Highlander by Madeline Martin - 5 Stars
This is the story of Freya and Ewan, the heroine and hero. They have both experienced the horror and tragedy of war. When Ewan asks for Freya's help it leads to an exciting story and maybe a chance at love.
I loved this story. It was well-written and had drama, suspense and stirred my emotions. It moved at a steady pace, and the characters were interesting and very likable. Read on to find out if they find their bit of happiness.

Book 7: Reckless Wager by Christy Carlyle - 4 Stars
This story takes us back to the days of Jack the Ripper. Kate is a widow working at a clinic in Whitechapel, and Benjamin is a detective obsessed with catching the Ripper. Both have been hurt by trusting in love, and both are afraid to try again. When they come together to help someone at the clinic (who claims to have been attached by the Ripper) they just might get a second chance at love.
This story was well-written and interesting. The characters were likable and entertaining. How will it all work out? Read the story to find out.
16 reviews
September 29, 2017
Keeps you wanting more

Sad to see the last story END . Will be looking for more books of the authors. Especially the last book
Profile Image for Twinsie Talk Angie J.
1,809 reviews
March 31, 2017
Christina McKnight's Story

I received this book from the author for an honest review. I really toiled with my rating in this book. I mean is it a 4.5 or 5. I was just back and forth. Then I went back and reread a scene…Christina will know…the Door scene…..yep it still gutted me so 5 stars it is.
AHHH!! OMG If you would have told me before reading this book I would be dumping Harold, from The Lady Forsaken Series, I would have said you are cray cray…GASP…however Harold I think we may need to take a little break so I can see how I am feeling about Lord Cartwright/Cart. No hard feelings right???
Lord Cartwright/Simon/Cart is so unlike any hero that Christina has written before. He is so nerdy and awkward but I fell in love with him. He is the person at a gathering with their nose stuck in a book. He is unsure of himself socially and really could care less about breaking a Ton rule. He is just after getting his family Earldom back in the right financial shape it should be after being stolen from by his uncle.
Judith/Jude wants to help her sister Marce but knows Marce will not have any of that. Her and her twin steal a vase to hopefully sell for money. This money she will give to her sister to call off the debtors who keep sending final collection notices.
When Jude and Cart meet, they are both thrown together and thought that they might just “tolerate” the others company but they actually get along. Then something happens to Cart and he gets upset at himself for making a fool out of himself. When any other Ton woman would have run away, Jude stays to help him.
The two are so similar and they both love art. Granted he loves to find it and she loves to steal it…Snickers…..but I just loved how put out she makes him. She makes him feel alive and actually interested in life again. I love how he uses scientific data to tell us the readers how he feels about Jude. I love how she is so confused because she is guilted by why she is friending him yet also she is so consumed with spending as much time with him as she can
The side characters are amazing. Sam I wanna throat punch. Payton just needs a hug. Garret *purr* needs to find the right woman. THEO!! OMG she steals the book!! LOVE HER!! But I am telling you …Christina is going to make us wait until the very last to know about Marce! I FREAKING need to know about her!! I am consumed with the need to know!!! AHHHHH,………….
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,117 reviews13 followers
April 14, 2017
Historical Hellions is a great set of books by a group of very talented authors.

The Pursuit of Pleasure by Elizabeth Essex
Lizzie Paxton and Commander James Marlowe (Jamie) agree to have a marriage of convenience that turns out to be anything but. Jamie wants to complete his mission to catch smugglers. Lizzie wants freedom and independence. The story flows well and has enough mystery and twists and turns to keep the readers‘ attention from beginning to end. Jamie and Lizzie are interesting and sometimes frustrating; they are truly made for each other. This story of a spy and a spitfire make an enjoyable read.

The Thief Steals Her Earl by Christina McKnight
The Thief Steals Her Earl is a bit different from many historical romance stories. The hero and heroine are both from families mired in scandal. Both families are on the edge of poverty. Simon, the Earl of Cartwright, has become an antiques dealer in order to rebuild the family’s coffers after his uncle and guardian wiped them out. Judith Pengarden lives at Craven House, once a premier brothel run by her mother, now a shelter for abused women run by her older sister. On their second attempt to help with family finances by stealing valuable, Judith broke into the wrong (Simon’s) house. When Jude and Simon meet, she asks him to help her sell a vase (one she stole to help with family finances). As they become acquainted, they begin to fall in love. When Simon discovers she has been dishonest, she tries to “fix” the mess she has made. Well, thank goodness for butlers! The last part of the story will have you smiling, crying, and cheering. This is a delightful story with an engaging plot – a dose of drama, some humor, and a bit of mystery. The main characters are well done – strong and smart. The secondary characters are likeable, especially the two younger sisters. I look forward to the rest of the series.

Secrets in Scarlet by Erica Monroe
This story is wet in 1832 in the Rookeries (lower working class areas). Thaddeus is a policeman trying to solve a murder near the factory where Poppy works as a weaver. He convinces Poppy to help him gather information about the murder. Their feelings for each other grow as they work together to solve the crime. There are secrets that make it hard for them, especially Poppy, to trust each other. The murder mystery and the romance blend together perfectly. There are lots of twists, turns, and surprises in both. Secrets in Scarlet is a well-written story that keeps your interest from beginning to end. The strong, relatable characters draw you into their story. If you like some mystery and suspense in your romance, you will love this one.

Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua
Sleeping Beau is a romp set in France during the reign of Louis XIV, which by all accounts, including this one, was quite a bawdy time. Adrien, the Marquis de Beaulain (Beau) and Catherine de Villecourt met five years before this story takes place and have not seen each other (except in dreams) since. They meet again at a house party overflowing with courtiers. The attraction has not died. Adrien has decided to do whatever he can to win her. Catherine fights it. Throw in a sister who wants Catherine’s betrothed, a father who is the King of France, a maid, and three uncles and you have a wild trip. How will it end? You won’t foresee what happens, or at least how it happens. The story is well written and interesting. The characters are captivating. I particularly liked Beau’s uncles. Like I said, this one is a romp!

The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards
Michael is the only son of Duke of Stafford. He fell in love with Beth while he mentored with her father who was a famous artist and once president of the Royal Academy. They were engaged, but were pulled apart due to family obligation. Their attempt at keeping in touch was thwarted by someone who was intercepting the letters they wrote to each other. Upon his mother’s death, Michael returned to London, but could not find Beth. Five years later they meet accidentally and begin the journey back to the love they once knew. It will not be easy. Beth and her mother fell on hard times after the death of her father. She has worked painting, not the art she loves, but sets for the theater. She doesn’t trust easily, and she is terribly unsure of Michael. Michael’s father and society as a whole disapprove of the match. Michael believes it is possible for them to be together. Beth does not believe it will work out. Beth’s mother is determined to see that it works (she’s a schemer). Is there a way to overcome these obstacles? Eileen Richards has written a beautiful love story with wonderful characters. (Except the Duke; you don’t have to like him.) You will love finding out if love conquers all for Michael and Beth.

The Madam’s Highlander by Madeline Martin
The Madam’s Highlander is a lovely story that brings together two wounded souls. The war with the English has taken a toll on both Freya and Ewan. When Freya’s family was attacked by rogue Redcoats, their servants murdered, and her sister raped, she blamed herself. She now runs a successful brothel. She also takes in war widows and other hopeless women, educates them, and helps them find jobs. Ewan’s father was hanged as a spy. To redeem the family’s reputation, he becomes a member of the Black Watch, Scotsmen who fight for the English. When Freya agrees to help him by checking on his family, they are brought together to try to find a way to keep both families safe. They did not foresee all that this endeavor would involve. There is action, mystery, betrayal, redemption, and love in this tale. The characters: the hero, heroine, and the secondary characters are wonderful. The good guys are strong willed, courageous, and caring. The bad guys are worthy of the name. It was not easy, but by the end of the story, Ewan and Freya will know love.

Reckless Wager by Christy Carlyle
Kate is a widow from an abusive marriage. She spends her time helping at a clinic in Whitechapel and wants to do more to help the women in this area who are mistreated by the men they are with. Benjamin is a police detective who is determined to solve the Ripper murders in Whitechapel. Here is where they meet. Both have been hurt by love in the past; each wishes to avoid it happening again. Will they take a chance to have a second chance? Maybe. What will happen to the Ripper, or the suspect? Reckless Wager is well written and interesting. The characters are well developed and engaging. A good read.
Profile Image for Wendy Bernard Blair.
9 reviews4 followers
April 11, 2017
Of the 7 authors for this anthology book Madeline Martin and Erica Monroe are the only authors I've read before. The others are all new authors for me. I received an ARC of this book for my honest reviews. A couple of the stories just didn't work for me but the other 5 stories were excellent. I also had pre-ordered this book so I ended up buying as well.


I received this book free for my honest reviews.



2-1/2 STARS. The Pursuit of Pleasure by Elizabeth Essex.
This was the hardest one and took almost 3 times as long to read than a book this size usually takes me. I found the heiress Elizabeth way to opinionated, stubborn and childish acting at times. She never wants to marry but she wouldn't mind being a widow so she won't have to answer to anyone and can then do as she pleases. Enter a man from her past. Commander Jameson Marlowe. He is in service with His Majesty's Royal Navy. He offers her dream come true. Marry him and with how dangerous his duties are, chances are she'll be the widow she wants to be. But she'll be left with a house and all his money. She's agrees and they are married the next day. After one night of passion he ship is leaving port. A week later her dream comes true. A letter from the Admiralty arrives special post saying that he had been killed in the line of duty. It comes as quite a shock to her that she actually loved her husband and was devastated that he was dead. Be careful what you wish for. But he's not really dead, he went undercover to find out who the ringleader is for a smuggling ring. The smugglers are using his, now her house as part of their smuggling operation as the house has been un-lived in for years and has hidden passageways leading down to a cave on the beach. She moves in the day she received the letter. Then shortly thereafter the magistrate arrives arresting her for the murder of her husband and throws her in the goal. Jamie finds out and visits the prison as a priest and then just leaves her there and tells her she can't tell anyone that he's still alive.
In the end the smugglers are found, they make up and live happily ever after. I had to force myself to finish the book as both Elizabeth and Jamie were selfish, annoying etc..
There are some typos in this book. Missing letters to words or the whole word missing in some sentences. In the blurb description he's a Captain and in the book he's a Commander.



5 STARS. The Thief Steals Her Earl by Christina McKnight.
Craven House Series Book 1
This book has such a great romantic dialog to it. It's a refreshing change from the norm. Both the hero and heroine come from families that are on the edge of poverty. Simon is the scholarly type, Jude's the shy timid twin. This is a excellent read filled with family betrayal, humor, a little mystery and of course love. It's a must read and as this was first published in July 2016. The second book in the series is already out and available. The Mistress Enchants Her Marquis is Jude's twin sister Samantha's story.



5 STARS. Secrets in Scarlet by Erica Monroe.
As I was reading this book. I kept getting the feeling of deja vu. When I finished the book I went to Amazon and typed the title in and yes this was originally published in September 2014. It is book 2 in The Rookery Rogues series. This is a very well written book. I enjoyed reading it this time just as much as I did the first time. Well worth the time to read it more than once. :)



2 STARS. Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua.
This book has too much coarse language and very explicit sex scenes. First encounter begins in the first couple of pages. I Love a good love scene but there is so much nasty language and explicit sex that I had trouble finishing this book. To me there's a difference between a good love / sex scene and pure smut. And there isn't any sense in so much coarse language as far as I'm concerned. I won't be reading any other books by this author.



5 STARS. The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards.
She's the daughter of a Famous artist. He's the only son of a Duke. They were engaged 5 years earlier. Michael's mother became quite ill. He went to her side and stayed until she passed away. When Michael returned to London he found out that Beth's father had also passed away. She and her mother had moved and he wasn't able to find them. They both said they had written letters to the other while apart but somehow the other never received them. They have some obstacles to overcome. Michael's father doesn't approve of Beth. But love prevails in the end. Their story is beautiful. I enjoyed reading it and can't wait to see what other books this author has written.



5 STARS. The Madam's Highlander by Madeline Martin.
Another excellent book. Madeline never disappoints. Freya is a Madam with her own Bawdy house. Ewan is a Scot who's in the Redcoats Black Watch. He wants her help, she says no. I don't like being extorted she tells him. She does what he asks. When she reports back to him. The news she gives him makes him furious and he goes AWOL. She helps him. Their story is Soo good. It's beautiful. I love what Ewan says to Freya when he proposes. It's so romantic. Part of it made me giggle. This is a must read. Like me you won't be disappointed with this book.



5 STARS. Reckless Wager by Christy Carlyle.
A Whitechapel Wagers book.
This book was very well written. It's a quick read. And a second chance at love.
893 reviews6 followers
June 27, 2017
Love and madness.

I truly loved the Historical Hellion s books by all the authors. The men are sad and brawny and the women are sad and strong. Together they help each other overcome and the love is then so strong, you can actual feel it.
125 reviews3 followers
July 8, 2017
Historical Hellions

Fun, fast reads with a bit of history too. An inexpensive group of stories that I enjoyed reading. These groups are always a buy.
Profile Image for Maria Dariotis .
783 reviews17 followers
April 13, 2017
I recieved an ARC copy from the author for my honest unbiased opinion.
This was such an enjoyable story I found myself reading way into the night to finish it. It's not the typical story of a rogue/scoundrel who's looking to redeem himself to his true love, Lord Cartwright or Cart to his friends is a bookish hero more interested in history and documenting archeological artifacts. He's an Earl but an almost bankrupt one thanks to his uncle. All his life he has thought of nothing but to take care of his family especially his younger sister Theodora ( Theo). He does what he has to so that they could maintain what's left of his inheritance . Miss Judith/Jude Pengarden is on a mission, she has devised a plan with her twin Samatha to help their sister Marce with some of the families debts . Being knowledgeable in antiquities Jude steals a rare vase in hopes of selling it to help with the mounting debts. At a social gathering she overhears Cart talking and realizes that he's the perfect person to sell the vase to or introduce her to someone who is interested . But all her plans backfire and sent her in a tizzy , the more time she spent with Cart she knew she couldn't use him and it all started with their electrifying kiss it consumed them both , for Cart it was something his academic mind couldn't understand , for her it was bonemelting delicious . Throughout the story Cart attempts to understand his feelings toward Jude, but he's never felt this way about anything or anyone in his life before.
Will Jude's thievery be too much for Cart to handle and discard their budding love or will he throw his bookish uptight self and brace the future with her. This was a fantastic story of love truly being the real thief of hearts. Christina McKnight has a way of weaving magic in her stories that pulls you in and keeps you there until your done!
This is for Christina McKnight's contribution to this box set, although every single one of the stories in the set are spectacular and worth the read



The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards

I was gifted a copy by the author for my honest unbiased opinion
Spring 1825
Elizabeth Bishop the daughter of a renowned painter has had a tough life, a talented artist in her own right has been working in the theatre as a prop artist. The death of her father has been hard- she not only lost her father five years ago but also the love of her life Lord Micheal Langston the heir to a Dukedom. Her one dream if she was to dream is to enter her painting in the Royal Acadamy of Art - it would only come close to her other dream for a life with Micheals Langston - but those are just dreams and dreams never become reality! Or do they?

Micheal never forgot his mentors daughter Elizabeth he had loved her with all his heart she was in his blood, when his mother summoned him because she was ill he had no choice but to leave with a promise to wed Elizabeth. Five years have past and Elizabeth was never out of his thoughts or his heart. When a chance meeting at he Academy brings them face to face he vows to never let her go again even though she wants nothing to do with him. What's a man to do with the woman he never forgot or stopped loving? Seduce her until her defences are destroyed! But Elizabeth will not make it easy for him, there's no better reward than fighting and succeeding in love.
A wonderful story of lost love second chances and redemption. Heartfelt and poignant will leave the reader with that fuzzy warm feeling all day. I Love Eileen Richards style of writing it never ceases to amaze me with the emotions of her characters they leap out and grab you with their story! Highly recommend!


Profile Image for Janet.
5,183 reviews64 followers
April 10, 2017
Hellions

The Pursuit of Pleasure by Elizabeth Essex
Independent, politically-minded heiress Elizabeth Paxton has never wanted to marry, but longs for the freedom afforded to widows. The last thing she wants is dangerously attractive Captain Jameson Marlowe as a husband. A well written page turning novel where everything isn’t what it appears to be. The characters have warmth & depth & I thoroughly enjoyed it

The Thief Steals Her Earl by Christina McKnight
The Earl of Cartwright is determined to find out who stole from his family. When he finds out the thief is the woman he’s fallen in love with, he must choose between duty and love. When I previously read thi novel I found it a bit lack lustre but it grew on me at second reading.

Secrets in Scarlet by Erica Monroe
When a bluestocking with a scandalous past meets an idealistic sergeant, sparks fly as they work to solve a murder...but her secrets may lead to their undoing. As with all the Rookery Rogue stories they are somewhat dark & take you into the murkier side of London. This is a well written very enjoyable book, the characters have depth.

Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua
Inspired by the tale of Sleeping Beauty—a scorching hot historical romance novella from the Fiery Tales series. One sleeping rake, one scorching kiss, one night of unforgettable passion. I enjoyed the retelling of the fairy story but there were a few too many sex scenes which spoilt it a little for me. The characters were well portrayed & the pace was good.

The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards
Elizabeth Bishop finds freedom as a theatre set painter until a chance meeting with Michael the Marquis of Langston who broke her heart five years ago has her questioning what she wants for her future.Elizabeth first got to know Michael when he was one of her father’s an art student A delightful story of misunderstanding, meddling parents & second chances. The characters are well portrayed, both Michael & Beth will have you routing for them. Lady Bishop was totally exasperating & I wanted to shake her, the Duke of Stafford so pumped up in his own conceit & Lady Cassandra who had eyes only on a title, all of their characterisations were spot on. I found it hard to put down

The Madam’s Highlander by Madeline Martin
What’s the madam of a successful bawdy house in Edinburgh to do when she finds one of the English supported Black Watch soldiers needing to desert his post? She helps him, of course – but there’s a high price to pay. The first story I’ve read from the author & although Highlander stories aren’t my favourite – men in skirts don’t do it for me!!. So saying did enjoy the story & will be reading more from the author

Reckless Wager by Christy Carlyle
Victorian propriety and passions collide when a beautiful widow makes a wager with a wounded police detective bent on solving the Ripper mystery. Another first for me & it had me hooked from the beginning. Set in Whitechapel, so not the best part of the city. It had everything for a good read. As it’s the third in the series I now need to go & read the earlier books

Seven well written stories, I read some of the authors before & a couple are new to me. I love thee collections as it opens the door to new authors. I thoroughly enjoyed all the stories & recommend the collection

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
Profile Image for Dottie.
289 reviews27 followers
April 1, 2017
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review of Madeline Martin's contribution "THE MADAME'S HIGHLANDER".
Freya Campbell is a Scottish lass who runs a successful bawdy house. She's very much a Miss Kitty like character, the prostitute with a heart of gold, taking widows in her employ while providing them with an education and an honest wage for whatever work they desire in her establishment.
Ewan Fraser is a member of the black watch, a Scotsman who sided with the English... and therefore a traitor to his countrymen. When Ewan asks for the famed Madame's assistance in a family matter, neither he or Freya can imagine all the adventure will land them in... including a marriage.
Madeline Martin has given readers a delightful romp in the highlands once again!
Profile Image for Teri Donaldson.
339 reviews8 followers
April 11, 2017
What a fabulous anthology from some of the best authors writing Regency romances today. It is such a treat to have seven novellas and novels in one collection at an unbelievable price of $.99.
Each story is unique to the author. You will enjoy love, passion, intrigue, humor, heartache and more. We have Dukes, Rogues, Scots, smugglers, soldiers, debutantes, blue stockings, heiress and even a madam.
I have read previous books by each of these authors so I knew that I would enjoy this collection. It exceeded all of my expectations. I encourage you to download this fabulous book today and enjoy every story!
Profile Image for Melissa.
351 reviews18 followers
April 11, 2017
I have read Eileen Richards book "The Art of Seduction in this collection. It was a great story about getting a second chance at love. The hero and heroine had an agreement to marry that was thwarted by life and circumstances. They are reunited through a chance meeting. They each have their views on how they will move on and this leads to the meat of the story. If you are a fan at second chance stories then I would give this selection a read.

I received a copy of this book to read and review.
Profile Image for Kacy Rozier.
99 reviews4 followers
April 12, 2017
Great Box set! I read this because Madeline Martin is my favorite Historical Author! All these stories were a good read very talented Authors!.... there were a couple that really didn't "move" me into a 5 star review. All in all I recommend the read of the box set!
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