The Wicked Heir

Spare Heirs #3

by Elizabeth Michels

The Spare Heirs Society Cordially Invites You to Meet Fallon St. James: The Mastermind

When the love of Lady Isabelle Fairlyn's life is betrothed to her twin sister, Isabelle vows to find a suitable replacement before the end of the season. He must be a talented dancer, have a keen fashion sense, and be perfectly dashing in every way.

Fallon St. James is the farthest thing from perfectly anything. As head of the secretive Spare Heirs Society, he must stick to the shadows...even as Isabelle's friendship pulls him reluctantly into the light. But when Isabelle gets involved with the one man who could destroy Spares, Fallon must decide between protecting his life's work―or risking everything to save the woman whose warm smile leaves him breathless.

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Historical, Regency Romance, Regency, Historical Fiction, Fiction

352 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 4, 2017

About the author

Do you want to know more about Elizabeth Michels? She loves to hear from her readers! Connect with her on social media!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/e.michels.novels


Elizabeth Michels is the award-winning author of the Tricks of the Ton series and the Spare Heirs series. This Regency Romance author grew up on a Christmas tree farm in rural South Carolina. After tip-toeing her way through school with her focus on ballet steps and her nose in a book, she met a boy and followed him a thousand miles away to Kansas City, Missouri where she lived for many years. Together, they spent their summers with his family in England, soaking up culture and history. Elizabeth attended Park University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BA in Interior Design.

​Elizabeth now spends her days creating plots and concocting characters in a lake-side town in North Carolina. When she is not typing as fast as human movement will allow, she is caring for her husband and little boy. Elizabeth Michels is a lover of happily-ever-afters. Whether in her writing life or in her home life, she spends her days with one word on her lips: love. She invites you to read her stories, get lost and enjoy. www.elizabethmichels.com

Reviews

[Phoenix77 · Rating 1 out of 5]

I can't really write a review for the book because I couldn't make it past Chapter Five. The storyline should have been really cute yet it takes F-O-R-E-V-E-R to get things out of neutral and into first gear. By the time the plot catches up to the story description from the back cover I was bored.


I skipped to the end just to see where all of this build up was going and guess what... somewhere in all the pages I skipped there's a Big Misunderstanding! Nope, not gonna go there!


Glad there are enough dissenting reviews posted that this book will get a fair shake from its intended audience. For me, I'm off to something else...

[Joana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've received an eARC via NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.

Review in Portuguese: http://pepitamagica.blogspot.co.uk/20...

I really enjoyed reading this book but, in the end, I questioned myself about how long would this relationship last.

Fallon St. James is the “boss” of the Spare Heir Society, and he tries to control and know everything – not in a bad way, but simply because he started out alone and got used to having all the weight of the world on his shoulders, not trusting anyone else – queue Isabelle. She showed him that he didn’t need to do it all alone, that he must enjoy the good things in life and not only see it in the eyes of others.

Isabelle is an innocent and a naïve young lady, who believes in the good and sees it even if it’s not there – she always wants to believe a person is its better version. And she loves art, so she spends her afternoons at the British Museum, looking after her family’s collection, especially a painting that will be part of her dowry.

And in the middle of all of this, Isabelle is caught between the vengeance of a former member of the Spar Heir Society, being manipulated and deceived. For good and bad, this is what hurts her. Even if they thought they were doing it with her best interest in mind, Isabelle isn’t dumb and she deserved to know the truth from the start.

But Fallon doesn’t give up trying to take care of her, even knowing he doesn’t fill her list of requirements for a husband. In the end, Isabelle discovers that the only thing she really wanted was someone that would love her and take care of her, and that would allow her to do the same for her loved one.

With mystery and revenge, art and romance, this book took me to a sweet world, one of which I plan to keep being part of by reading the rest of the books in this series – soon, hopefully!

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! Maybe I was just in the mood for this type of story. I liked both the hero and the heroine in different ways. They were perfect for each other.

This book is not quite murder mystery. Not really a spy book. It does have action, and the Spare Heirs Society was quite interesting. On the other hand, I didn't have to think too much. I could just read, enjoy, and let the book take me where it would.

I have read one other book by Elizabeth Michels, but I don't remember enjoying it as well. After this read, I plan to re-read that one and continue with more. I look forward to the inevitable story about the heroine's twin sister!

[AnnMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wicked Heir is the third book in the Spare Heirs series by Elizabeth Michels. It can easily be read as a stand alone novel.

Lady Isabelle Fairlyn is in love with the man of her dreams, Brice, a man that once, years ago, showed her a kindness that she's never forgotten. She lives in her parents house, her parents argue a lot, and Isabelle dreams of marrying Brice and living happily ever after. In her world there would be on arguing, just plenty of smiles and happiness. Brice doesn't even know she exists! When he ends up getting betrothed to none other than her twin sister, Victoria, she is heartbroken. But with her always positive approach to things, she knows she must move on, and sets out to find another Mr Right. That Mr Right, happens to be a manipulative villain, hell bent on revenge on both Isabelle's father, and on Fallon St James' Spare Heirs Society. He is determined to woo Isabelle and then use her to wreak his revenge.

Fallon St James recently met Isabelle at a society event, their meeting was a memorable one. It is also where he learns that she has a huge crush on his friend and fellow Spare Heir, Brice. She hero worships the man and Fallon knows that her dreams of marrying the man are wasted because he isn't the man she thinks he is. When he ends up betrothed to her sister Fallon is relieved both because of the unsuitability of Brice for her, but also because he has started to form an attachment to her himself. Of course he is no good for her either, so he knows his jealousy is ridiculous.

Fallon's and Isabelle's lives are thrown together when in her search for her new Mr Right, she ends up grievously injured and set up for art theft by that man! The only way to make sure she recovers and to keep her safe is for Fallen to whisk her off to his home where he keeps her locked up in his bedroom. He can't let her roam his house because it is also the home of the Spare Heirs Society, a secret society that nobody, especially Isabelle should know about.

Of course Isabelle being Isabelle it isn't long after she recovers that she ends up seeing Fallon as a hero, and she finds herself in love with him. As for him, well if nothing else he finds her good fun, and he definitely lusts after her. He can't allow himself to love anybody, so he fights the good fight not to fall for her while at the same time continuing to run the society, and most importantly, making sure nobody finds out about the supposed art theft that would ruin Isabelle and her family's reputation. Isabelle could also end up in prison!

Can Fallon and his men get their man, keep Isabelle safe, and keep her family from ruin. Can Fallon also keep from falling in love with Isabelle. Even if he could give in and return the love she tells him she feels for him, he isn't good enough for her. He's not the hero she thinks he is. Can they possibly have a happy ending?

I think this story was wonderful, there was never a dull moment from beginning to end. Isabelle's view of life was so simple and uncomplicated, she sees everything through rose coloured glasses. She is the perfect person to befriend Fallon who has seen way too much of the seedier side of life. She is the light to his darkness. It was wonderful to see Fallon begin to loosen up a little. Alongside the romance of the story, the suspense and intrigue involving the villainous Grapling, kept me hooked. Why did he want revenge against Isabelle's father and the Spare Heirs? Could he be stopped? I loved this book and I fully intend to go back and read the other books of the series, and of course read the next book in the series which is about Brice. I am really looking forward to that!

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.

[Erin Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Spare Heirs... I just love this concept. This was my first book in the series, but now I want to go back and read them all. It's such a great idea to focus on those second sons who won't inherit, but have no jobs or "meaning" in life. Although, I can't imagine a much better spare heir than Fallon St. James, and I fear the others will pale in comparison.

The Story-
Isabelle is a romantic. She keeps a diary, loves to read romance, and reminded me of the heroine from Northanger Abbey. Since she daydreams her fantasies, of course her ideal man is tall and blonde with worldly interests and charisma. Unfortunately, he doesn't seem to realize she is alive, but when his best friend, Fallon St. James, notices her light stalking (like all teenage girls do), they become unlikely friends. There's a mystery, friends-to-lovers, and other fun stuff that I don't want to spoil.

My Thoughts-
I could see how someone could become annoyed with the heroine, but I felt such a kinship with her that I forgave her naivete. As for the hero, he was one of my absolute faves of recent reads. The plot is wonderfully captivating, and the characters are well-developed. My mystery feels more high stakes than most in Regency romances with a truly evil bad guy.

The Bottom Line-
If you read Regency, this series is a must, and I suspect that this is one of the best heroes in this series. A very fast read that will have you smiling and sighing. I can't wait to read about another "Spare Heir" (hopefully Lord Brice). 5 stars

[eyes.2c · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

'You're smile lacks meaning.'

And just like that Fallon St. James' life takes a different course.
I really liked St. James but struggled with Lady Isabelle Fairlyn. In someways she seemed too childlike for St. James. At moments I found it hard to relate to her. She seems so young with a head (and diary) full of a young woman's dreams. We're told her diary is full of swooping letters with 'silhouettes of flowers and swirls of ink fashioned into vines.' However there are moments when Isabelle is no shrinking violet. (And that's when I like her). She is searching for her true love. At about the age of sixteen she fixated on another Spare, Mr. Kelton Brice, as that person. Isabelle is now three years older. To her Brice is the epitome of the perfect partner. She has plans for him!
His friend and fellow Spare, Fallon St James, just doesn't cut it. He's too serious and brooding in appearance and manner. He doesn't smile and he can be quite off putting. But appearances can be deceptive and Isabelle discovers previously unlooked for depths in this gentleman she terms piratical.
St James is the leader of the Spare Heirs Society, a secretive organization that has influence spread in all sorts of places. He needs to focus on the Society and its various tentacles to ensure its profitability.
When Isabelle is threatened by Reginald Grapling, a man who has mysteriously escaped from prison; a man previously hunted and brought to justice by the Heirs, Fallon must act quickly to find him and at the same time protect Isabelle. Fallon may be trying to save Isabelle but who will save him from the powerful attractions he feels for her?
In the end their story is one of action, mystery and a reluctant romance.
Isabelle's twin sister Victoria has her own story, that plays out somewhat here. She seems to me to be a very interesting character. I am looking forward to her involvement with the Spares.

A NetGalley ARC

[Amy ~ Love At 1st Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth Michels goes big in The Wicked Heir, the newest addition to her Spare Heirs series. This story abounds with big adventure and big romance. I love heroines who are smart and determined, yet new to the splendor and risks of love. I love dashing heroes who use their brains to scheme and their muscles to protect those important to them. And I love historical romantic suspense because the stakes are always high. Instead of just suffering societal consequences, if the hero and heroine don’t solve the problem, they could lose their lives. You’ll be swept away by this story where danger and passion intersect on every page.

Lady Isabelle Fairlyn was known to fall in love easily. When the love of her life is betrothed to her twin, Isabelle is determined to find a replacement. One who meets all her requirements for a happy match. He must be a fine dancer, fashionable, have an engaging smile. And most importantly, he must be someone to take her away from her father’s home, a place of constant bickering, to a world where no one yells and there is always peace and joy.
Fallon St. James was nothing like Isabelle’s dream man. As head of the Spare Heirs Society, he’s used to living in the shadows, on the murkier side of the law. This group was his life. One couldn’t always adhere to honesty and virtuous actions when it was a matter of surviving and managing the lives of men who might otherwise have nothing. Men born of quality but without inheritance, lands, or the ability to work in trade. Fallon gave those men a wage and, more importantly, a purpose - influencing and quietly profiting from society, keeping the seedier side of London running safely. Fallon’s entire life was exact, carefully orchestrated and planned, but once he met Isabelle Fairlyn, he was completely thrown from his normal course.
Upon meeting Fallon, Isabelle immediately decided that they would be the best of friends. Being Isabelle, she quickly confided in Fallon all about her unrequited love and pursuit of a match. Fallon was intrigued by Isabelle. She was beautiful, guileless, and seemed to live within her dreams to keep the ugliness of the world at bay. She was a curiosity to him and he couldn’t seem to walk away from her. He liked the light and laughter she brought into his world. Isabelle enjoyed that her new friend was so different from anyone of her acquaintance. He was so serious and stern yet kind. She’d never experienced the feelings he seemed to elicit in her.
But when Isabelle sets her sights on the one man who could not only destroy her life, but also the life Fallon has built, he has no choice but to step in. So, after a series of rash decisions, Fallon takes Isabelle to the one location he is sure she’ll be safe. His bedroom. But neither anticipated the feelings that would develop between them. Despite their growing attraction, Fallon knows he shouldn’t encourage anything with her. Isabelle was a distraction from everything he should be focusing on. Once this whole ordeal was solved, she’d return home. “And the light she brought into his life would be extinguished.”

As with all the books in this series, I was immediately hooked. Ms. Michels writes a strong, suspenseful plot interwoven with a beautiful romance. I adored Fallon and Isabelle. Isabelle had such a positive view of the world. She was refreshing and enchanting. Though she appeared to live in a dream world at times, she was no fool. Just romantic. She needed an anchor and Fallon became just that when her life became a storm around her. Fallon was a control freak of sorts. The Spare Heirs Society was his life and he felt obligated to always be in control of every facet of the group. He had to learn that accepting help didn’t make him weak. He thought no lady would ever fit into the life he’d carved out for himself. But Isabelle was no average lady. Their strong, developing relationship is only enhanced by the suspenseful plot. The suspense kept me turning the pages even as the intense romance made me want to stay immersed in the story. Ms. Michels’ flawless writing style beautifully depicts the era detail, and society rules and rituals. I fell in love with these characters as they learned and grew as a result of the obstacles before them and as a result of each other. I have loved every book in this series. I am eager for Brice and Victoria’s story. I can’t wait for Brice to meet his match. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.

[Under the Covers Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am loving how the timelines of the books in this series are somewhat overlapping.  The one downside is that because they aren't released too close to each other, my memory is a bit faulty and it takes me a little while to catch back up and for things to come back to me.  That being said,  THE WICKED HEIR was quite the fun read.  I had been intrigued by the mysterious head of the Spare Heirs Society, Fallon St. James, for a while.  When the other heroes need something taken care of, that's who they go to.  So he must've been the biggest and baddest one around, right?

I loved getting to know him through the rose colored glasses of the perpetual romantic, Isabel Fairlyn.  She fancies herself in love with the most unlikely man, and a member of the Spare Heirs.  She's kept detailed accounts of her feelings in her diary for a while now, and figured this is the season she'll reel him in and they'll be married and happily ever after.  Except he's never really given her more than a glance and for all intents and purposes has no interest.  The one that does seem to be captivated by her is St. James and they quickly develop an unlikely friendship.  The man with all the secrets who lives on the edge of the law, and the prim and proper Lady who dreams of balls, gowns and fairytales.

I really enjoyed their friendship, their banter, and the way their relationship developed.  The situations they often found themselves involved in were also a lot of fun to read about.  This is, without a doubt, my favorite in the series so far.  It kept a nice and steady pace, it was entertaining when it called for and swoony as well.  I loved both main characters, as well as the whole lot of side characters.  I'm left wanting to get the next book sooner rather than later because, as I'm sure there's bound to be some overlapping of timelines as well, I need to make sure my memory stays fresh to remember all the details.  With a spunky heroine and a rake it promises to be a great read.

*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Ms. Michels, and I enjoyed it. Thanks go to the publisher and Net-Galley for the invitation to read and review. The Wicked Heir has a unique premise, making it an interesting read.

The plot intrigued me from the start and I remained engaged until the end. The pacing is steady and the writing flows well. I enjoyed Ms. Michels writing style a great deal. Although this is the third book in The Spare Heirs Society, I did not have any difficulty reading this book as a stand-alone.

Lady Isabelle’s character was a mixed bag for me. She came across as flighty and she lives with her head in the clouds, but she has her moments, just not strong enough for me to fall in love with her.

Fallen St. James is a much more fleshed out character. I felt I came to know him and like him. He places his honor and dedication the Spare Heir Society above all else in his life. At first, he just sees Isabella as an obligation, but when he has to spend a lot of time in her company, he was drawn to her naiveté. I enjoyed seeing him soften and begin the see the shades of gray in life.

One of the things I enjoy most in Regency romance novels is the sexual tension between the hero and heroine, and this novel has that key ingredient. The attraction grows to a slow burn and had me rooting for Isabelle and Fallon to find their happy ending, especially Fallon. This couple definitely proves opposites attract.

If you enjoy a rousing romance with interesting characters, a bit of mystery and a great romance, then The Wicked Heir is the book for you. Happy reading!

[Angel Hatfield · Rating 3 out of 5]

When the love of Lady Isabelle Fairlyn's life is betrothed to her twin sister, Isabelle vows to find a suitable replacement before the end of the season. He must be a talented dancer, have a keen fashion sense, and be perfectly dashing in every way. Fallon St. James is the farthest thing from perfectly anything. As head of the secretive Spare Heirs Society, he must stick to the shadows...even as Isabelle's friendship pulls him reluctantly into the light. But when Isabelle gets involved with the one man who could destroy Spares, Fallon must decide between protecting his life's work—or risking everything to save the woman whose warm smile leaves him breathless.
This book was ok. It dragged a bit in the beginning and my opinion of Isabelle dipped a bit. One thing that annoyed me, and annoys me when historical romances do this, is her feelings for someone just because he was nice to her at one point. I get it that times were way different back then but it just irritates me. What saved it for me was Fallon and the action of the book. I will probably try another book from this author.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ms. Michels expertly sets the bait and reels in readers. Isabelle and Fallon are caught in a war. With dueling hearts, secret agendas and suffocating danger, it's no wonder they have time for all the suspense thrown their way. Yet somehow they manage to overcome the obstacles and ensnare readers in the process. The Wicked Heir teases the heart, awakens the senses and boggles the mind. Intensely passionate and dangerously sweet.

[Jeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

The mysterious Fallon St. James and the Lady Isabelle Fairlyn are front center in the 3rd installment of this wonderful series. St. James is always in control of himself and every situation until he runs into Isabelle. She is the complete opposite of him with a sunny optimistic outlook on life. The plot is rich with intrigue, self discovery and passion. The plot was flawlessly woven with an emotional journey that left you turning the page with anticipation. The suspense left you holding your breath with the creative masterpiece of story telling. You absolutely will fall in love with these people and their story.

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

The Wicked Heir brings us back into the dashing, secretive world of the Spare Heirs Society for another adventure… and another heir finds his match, even if he wasn’t looking for one.

It would be easy to see Isabelle as a flighty, marriage minded young miss with nothing but dreams and fantasies in her head. But that would be a mistake for she is so much more than what is seen by others. Yes, she wants the fantasy of the perfect match, the ideal man especially once the man she’d pinned her young crush dreams upon was suddenly announced as her twin sister’s betrothed. Nothing like a wake up call to shake up your dreams. What she’s truly looking for is an escape from her parent’s home, from their constant arguments, from the not always so pleasant life she has to a world of her own choosing. In that she is not so different from many young ladies of her time and place in society. What she will discover is her ideal man is a wickedly, unexpected man with danger in his eyes and a love for her in his stubborn heart.

Fallon didn’t really have the time or the inclination to look after a young miss with stars in her eyes and an impossible to find checklist of that perfect match she’s on the hunt for. Yet Isabelle is actually quite charming with a vivid mind and no sense whatsoever for her own safety and self-preservation. As Fallon finds himself as her designated “friend” he’s suddenly quite interested in a woman who is falling for the charms of a truly vile, dangerous man. Isabelle believes she may have found the man she’s looking for, what she actually is to this villain is a pawn, a easy to use for revenge conquest. And Fallon is not about to let that happen – even if he has to whisk her away to the one place she certainly should not be… his home, his bedroom.

I enjoyed my time spent in the world of The Wicked Heir. Isabelle and Fallon are an interesting match, what appears as opposites actually finds more things in common with each other than either thought. You can see Isabelle growing, and Fallon softening his heart toward one woman who finds her way into his heart and will not let go. There are some dark moments, a vile villain to defeat and a touch of mystery, suspense to this one that will make this an enjoyable read for any one who likes to solve a puzzle along with their romance. I had fun, I enjoyed it and now I’m looking forward to the next story in this series.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Widya Rahardja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received an advanced reader copy in exchange for a fair review

This is my first book that I've read from Elizabeth Michels, and I must say that I'm glad my first book turned out to be an amazing and enjoyable read, which left me hanging for more

The story begins with Lady Isabelle Fairlyn spying on the man of her dreams, Brice, and later how she formed unusual friendship with Brice's friend, the leader of the Spare Heirs society, Fallon St. James. Isabelle valued her friendshiop with Fallon very highly, and when she got her heart broken when she heard about Brice's betrothal announcement with her twin sister, Victoria Fairlyn, she went to Fallon to seek comfort. Fallon, a man who only knows how to work and tried hard in keeping Spare Heir alive, appreciate the friendship he had with Isabelle. For him, Isabelle is very important, so when Isabelle got tangled with the traitor of the Spare Heir, Fallon did all he could do to keep her safe, even at the risk of losing her

As the center of the story, Isabelle Fairlyn felt real to me. Pining over your first love, trying her best to attract the attention of the man she dreamed of, always being honest, believe in the good of everyone, and fiercely loyal to the people she loved, even to the new friend she knew nothing about. She's just the perfect girl in my mind. She has her own opinion but that doesn't mean she becomes rude or didn't care about the rules of the society. She's just your usual lady, another one among the girls in the ton, and yet she make me so drawn to her, make me cheer for her, and make me almost cry for her when she got her heart broken through an unfortunate accident

I usually like the hero in historical romance, so it's easy for me to fall in love with Fallon St. James as well, but not for the usual reason. He's got a big buden on his shoulder, couldn't smile honestly, not being able to live his life the way he wanted it, and yet his genuine friendship (and love, though he would never admit it) to Isabelle changed him little by little

I also love that the story between Isabelle and Fallon didn't immediately start in the beginning of the book, which most historical romance usually start, and that their love is not coming from instant attraction for each other, and rather it comes from the heart-to-heart talk and form the start of an unusual friendship. I love and cry with them along the way from beginning to end, and when I realize that I have nothing more to read, I want to read more of the book. It was that wonderful

For all the enjoyment, the laugh and the tears I shed while reading this book, I gave it a solid 5 stars. I hope that my next encounter with the author, especially about the hinted book regarding Isabelle's twin sister, Victoria, and Brice, would be an amazing one as this one as well

[Book Gannet · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my first book from this series and author and I have mixed feelings about it, because on the one hand I loved Fallon and quite enjoyed the mystery plot, and on the other there’s Isabelle. I tried to like her, truly I did, but every time the story switched to her perspective I was continuously battling the need to put the book down and read something else.

Isabelle is a dreamer, a fantasist and a frequent escapee from reality. This isn’t entirely a bad thing, I have an active imagination and love a bit of whimsy and silly fun, but Isabelle takes it to the extreme. She doesn’t just make up ridiculous stories about people she’s never met, she believes them and really is foolish beyond permission. Which is why she’s in love with a man simply because he winked at her once, believes Fallon is secretly a pirate and is oblivious to real dangers that swirl around her. I feel mean for not liking her, but in truth, there were times when I wanted her to be kidnapped simply to get her out of the story for a bit.

Which is a massive shame, because I genuinely love Fallon. He’s a great character, caring, loyal and a bit of a control freak. He looks after and commands his spare heirs with all the diligence he possesses (which is a lot), all while believing himself cold and worthless. He’s not, he’s wonderful. The way he cares for Isabelle was lovely, even if she didn’t really deserve it at times. I don’t know where he found the patience to deal with her ridiculous stunts, but it just proves what a good man he is, even if I was worried about his sanity at times.

I’d love to be able to say that Isabelle improved or grew on me, and around the halfway mark I had hope, but then came the pigeon scene. It started out as quite amusing, but by the end I wanted her to fall out the window. What really got to me, though, was how selfish she was regarding her sister. Her behaviour there proved she’s not nearly as sweet and lovely as she likes to pretend and I was very disappointed in her.

What didn’t disappoint was the mystery plot. It sneaks and creeps its way in around the romance, showing hints of danger and antagonism here and there, and I really enjoyed it. I loved getting a glimpse of what the Spare Heirs Society is really about and even if this heroine didn’t appeal to me in the slightest, this book still left me wanting to know more about this series and these characters.

So my feelings are mixed. Fallon is a five star hero, the plot was a good four, but Isabelle barely scrapes two stars, leaving me somewhere in the middle. Of course other people’s mileage will vary depending on how much patience they have for Isabelle. Perhaps my own will change when I’ve read more of the series. I guess I’ll have to catch up with the first two books sometime and find out.

(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review For: The Wicked Heir by Elizabeth Michels 'The Wicked Heir' by Elizabeth Michels is Book Three in "The Spare Heirs" series. This is the story of Lady Isabelle Fairlyn and Fallon St. James. I feel this can easily be a standalone book. Fallon is the head of the Spare Heirs Society and likes to be in control of things. Isabelle has only had the title of Lady for a few years and looks for the good in everything it would seem. Isabelle has eyes for Fallon's friend Mr. Brice at first. There first true meeting has them in a situation that is somewhat funny when you know how much Fallon is so serious. Fallon is taken back by Isabelle and her attitude toward him and other things she does. From the first moments of their meeting when she describes how Ms. Brice Smiled at her and then she criticized Fallon smile I knew this was going to be another great book by Ms. Michels. I will say that Ms. Michels is on my favorite go to list of authors when I want a great romance book! Loved this story!"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H... https://twitter.com/soapsrus68 https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR... http://booklikes.com/bloghttps://roma... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...

[Happily Mary After · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this historical romance, Michels writes a heady love story that has it all – intrigue, passion, humor, and suspense — and readers will be captivated when the controlled and mysterious Fallon St. James is bowled over by the cheerful daydreamer Lady Isabelle Fairlyn.

Isabelle lives with her head in the clouds idealizing life and love, and she’s written an exacting list of her ideal husband’s attributes. She meets the enigmatic Fallon, and he doesn’t meet any of her requirements, but there’s something about him that she cannot ignore. He’s also attracted to her and in agreement of their incompatibility, but both cannot deny the pull between them and form a friendship of sorts.

Fallon is the head of the Spare Heirs Society, which provides a livelihood and brotherhood for gentleman who are not first-born sons and who are without socially approved career options beyond the clergy and military, and his life is consumed with running the organization. When threats against the Spare Heirs also target Isabelle, Fallon seeks to protect her, and they find themselves thrust together and in close quarters. As he begins to really get to know Isabelle, he falls hopelessly in love with her, and his very foundation is rocked. He is devastatingly charming as he begins to loosen his tightly wound control under Isabelle’s warm regard, and he is well and truly gobsmacked. The Wicked Heir is perfectly paced and thoroughly romantic, and Michels has a talent for weaving an enchanting, engrossing and suspenseful tale.

Recommendation appeared on USA Today’s Happy Ever After on July 6, 2017.

ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

'The Wicked Heir' by Elizabeth Michels is Book Three in "The Spare Heirs" series. This is the story of Lady Isabelle Fairlyn and Fallon St. James. I feel this can easily be a standalone book.
Fallon is the head of the Spare Heirs Society and likes to be in control of things.
Isabelle has only had the title of Lady for a few years and looks for the good in everything it would seem. Isabelle has eyes for Fallon's friend Mr. Brice at first.
There first true meeting has them in a situation that is somewhat funny when you know how much Fallon is so serious. Fallon is taken back by Isabelle and her attitude toward him and other things she does. From the first moments of their meeting when she describes how Ms. Brice Smiled at her and then she criticized Fallon smile I knew this was going to be another great book by Ms. Michels.
I will say that Ms. Michels is on my favorite go to list of authors when I want a great romance book!
Loved this story!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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[Jana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naozaj dobra kniha 😁😁. Vlastne tato seria, aby som bola presna. Pacilo sa mi vsetko, od priatelstva, cez tajomstvo, az po zlocin...a laska samozrejme 😉. Bolo to take osviezujuce....aj som sa casto smiala. Nebol to len tak hocijaky romanticky pribeh...malo to nieco do seba. Dej tu rozoberat nebudem, na to je anotacia....ale paci sa mi ako autorka vsetky pribehy rozprava subezne, nie ako v inych seriach, kde nasleduju po sebe...tu sa vsetky osudy krasne prelinaju a doplnaju. Som rada, ze som na autorku natrafila 😁.

[Erica Chilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this title to read & review for Wicked Reads

DNF @30% automatic 3 stars

While I enjoyed Fallon & the premise, I couldn't suffer through struggling with Isabelle's narration.

I understand she is sheltered, uneducated, ignorant, and a dreamer, but her mental & emotional age is stuck in the range of a ten-year-old girl. I'm not saying she is juvenile or childish, more like she has a mental handicap. I read her as being younger than her years, so all romance & lust skeeved me out, finding Isabelle unable to consent to romance in any capacity.

Case in point, at the start, a man "winked" at her, so therefore they are soul-mates & she fell instantaneously in love with him.... forever. & she beat this mentality like a dead horse. All narration by our heroine was insufferable, as it was like reading the diary of a preteen, not 20+ years of age.

[Karen Llanes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth's books are delightful to read. The wicked Heir has a happily ever after tale. Isabelle has happy tales to tell that can make a man like Fallon smile and open his heart. Fallon the man who is used to being in charge will he share his story with Isabelle so they can share their life together.

[Kelsey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Isabelle's naivety was annoying the whole book. She was supposed to be portrayed as chipper and upbeat but it came across as immature, almost TSTL.

Fallon, on the other hand, was an incredible character and worth the whole book.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Fallon he is amazing and I wish he was real. Elizabeth michels has a great writing style that makes you feel as if you are feeling what the characters are feeling. I hope there will be a fourth book.

[Laura · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book landed on the DNF pile. I did not like the first chapter. I felt like I was missing a lot of information. I really didn't like Isabelle or Victoria.


I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank You.

[Kim Vanravenswaay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isabelle has quite an imagination, she makes up a story for all the people she encounters. She also seems to act selfishly. Not sure what Fallon sees in her at the beginning. Although she does end up showing some compassion towards the end of the book. I guess you could say that I just didn't like her character much. Fallon however more than makes up for her. I've read the other Spare Heir books, and couldn't wait to read his story.

[Taylor Sorenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this installment in the Spare Heirs! Fallon and Isabel are just the sweetest--his seriousness balances her boisterousness perfectly. Can't wait for the next story!

[Koki · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Sny sú vrtošiví malí darebáci."

Isabelle odjakživa snívala o veľkej láske. Zamilovať sa pre ňu bolo vždy jednoduché. Muž musel iba spĺňať zopár podmienok, ktoré si vytýčila pre svojho ideálneho princa. Stačilo mať blond vlasy, krásny úsmev, nosiť módne šaty a vedieť tancovať. Nuž, dievča muselo dlho vymýšľať zoznam požiadaviek na svojho budúceho manžela 😆 Na druhej strane, aspoň vidieť, že je skromná a nie veľmi náročná 😉

Jej dlhodobým objavom bol Kelton Brice. V jej očiach dokonalý džentlmen hoden jej lásky. Vôbec nevadilo, že na plesoch si ju nevšímal. Isabelle k jej "nehynúcej" láske stačil iba moment, kedy na ňu sprisahanecky žmurkol. Zvyšok recenzie je tu: http://kokinakniznica.blogspot.com/20...

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Series: Spare Heirs Society #3
Publication Date: July 4, 2017

I rarely give 5-star reviews, but this one definitely deserves it. I haven’t read the other books in the series, but you don’t need to read them in order to enjoy this book.

First, I’ll mention the Spare Heirs Society. It wasn’t what I thought it would be. Since I hadn’t read the first two books of the series, I assumed that it was a group of gentlemen who had banded together to help each other succeed financially in life by advising each other on investments, etc. Not so, although they do some of that kind of thing. To me, they sound sort of like a benign mafia. They do help the downtrodden by providing protection to places that are generally preyed upon – like gaming hells and brothels, etc. The members are paid a stipend and those who need it are even offered a place to stay in the ‘headquarters’. I’m thinking that maybe after this book they may head toward more aboveboard, totally legal enterprises. I hope so.

Fallon St. James is a total control freak. We don’t really learn a lot about his background other than his deceased father was a drunken lout as is his brother (the heir). Evidently the brothers never see or talk to each other. Fallon is the head of the Spare Heirs Society and he devotes his entire being to the organization. He is always planning, meeting, etc. in furtherance of the Society – it is his whole life and he doesn’t know how to make room for anything else. He sleeps little and eats little because those are wastes of time he could be spending working for the Society. So when he meets Lady Isabelle Fairlyn and she decides they will be friends, he has no idea what to do with her.

Lady Isabelle Fairlyn has only been a ‘Lady’ for about four years. Before that, he father was an unlikely heir. Isabelle is definitely a Pollyanna – she only sees the good in everything. She lives in books and stories of romance and love. Her head is definitely in the clouds and she ‘falls in love’ every other month. Because of the contentious relationship between her parents, she absolutely can’t abide conflict and therefore, her version of love means that there will always be agreement, sunshine, butterflies and unicorns. Yes – she does sound immature, but I don’t think she really is – I think she just has no idea of what love really is because she hasn’t seen it.

When the villain sets his sights on Isabelle with an eye to ruining her, her family and the Spare Heirs because of an old grudge, Fallon has to save her. When he finds her unconscious and nearly dead along with a ‘confession’ letter about missing artwork from the museum he takes her to his home (which is also the SHS headquarters). He has to keep her locked up in order to keep her safe and protected – so – of course he locks her in his bedroom. Why – well – nobody other than him can provide her with the protection she needs. Well, I told you he was a control freak!

As they spend the next month in close proximity to each other, they get to know each other and really care for each other. Fallon, however, can’t see a future for them together because of the Spare Heirs. Plus, he’s afraid of her finding out about the Heirs and what they really do. The read, the solution to the troubles and the road to love are all wonderfully done with the excellent writing of Elizabeth Michels. I definitely recommend the book.

"I requested and received this book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."

[Jessica Grogan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was an okay read. Definitely felt like you need to read the other books first, which I did not. I was pretty much lost about who people were the entire time.

[Anna Swedenmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must buy book! I was totally lost in the story. My heart was involved as well as mind. I felt horrible for the young heroine that she was innocent and naive and wanted love with all her heart or her perception of love. The hero... a little grimy a little worldly and strong. Masculine and arrogant but needy in his own way. Each of the characters in this story sang to my heart and my mind. I only wish we had such an organization in this day and age! Not to mention those hunky arrogant loving gentlemen! Such a story is truly timeless and one that I shall remember. I can only say buy the book and enjoy the journey in your reading! I was given this book in return for a honest review. Anna