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Scandalous Ballroom Encounters #4
Submitting to the Marquis
Lady Sophie Baxter must wed a wealthy lord by the end of the Season, or risk the ruin of her family. However, her father does not have just any lord in mind. He’s set his sights on Simon Fitzwilliam, Marquis of Ashton—a man known amongst the ton for being as cold and aloof as he is rich and powerful. While his frigid gaze and reserved demeanor prove intimidating, Sophie cannot help but wonder if there isn’t more to the marquis than meets the eye. Curiosity leads her to accept the marquis’ suit, and before long she learns that Simon’s secrets are far darker than she could have ever imagined. Darkest of all being the hidden chamber behind a locked door, filled with ropes, restraints, and implements of torture … a chamber her husband has specified she is never to enter. Yet, Sophie soon discovers that what appear to be instruments of torment are capable of unlocking the most exquisite pleasure. Convincing him to teach her the ways of submitting to his dominance will be easy. Uncovering the secrets of his heart and soul will be one of the hardest things Sophie has ever done.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2017
444 people are currently reading
513 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Vale
37 books576 followersVictoria Vale writes erotic romance that refuses to stay in its lane. She hops between history and suspense, blending danger with desire until the edges blur. Her stories are marked by bold heroines, irresistible heroes, and heat that never behaves the way it should. Love Me Darkly (2025) proves passion is always at its best when it misbehaves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
September 12, 2018
I had not read much on BDSM, I was quite surprised that I liked this book. This story had depth. I gave the book 5 stars because of the quality of the writing and the storyline.
A true love story about an innocent and broken man.
I really, really enjoyed the story. Well done
A true love story about an innocent and broken man.
I really, really enjoyed the story. Well done
September 13, 2018
Hard to rate. Sometimes I'm in the mood for erotica and BDSM is the erotica flavor du jour. It can be titillating and I enjoy it in its milder forms, but I find it mostly falls into 2 camps.
1) the hero is a sadistic bastard and it's too much for me (see Carolyn Faulkner's Prima)
2) the hero is a poor, abused man-boy who has turned to domination to cure his demons (see this and 50 Shades of Grey)
I wish there were more where the hero is not a sadist and not using bdsm as therapy. More of a tough, sure-of-himself manly man who isn't a sadist, but unashamedly enjoys the spanking kink. I have found precious few. Sue Lyndon's Rules of War sort of fits, but it's not a consensual bdsm with all the rules and safe words. I think that one falls more into the domestic discipline genre.
The writing was not bad, but I can do without the endless info dumping re: the nature of the bdsm relationship and rules, etc etc. I can also more than do without the child abuse. It makes me sad, angry and casts a pall over the romance. Also, I don't know anyone in "the life" but find it hard to believe that it's always a sign of such abuse and that the Dom is, at heart, an angry victim who just needs a woman to truly love him.
The aftermath of the scene where the H loses it and goes too far could have been handled better. His remorse was sincere, but she forgave him far too easily, IMHO. Also, it being a big catharsis for him to confess his childhood horrors and heal through prayer was just.... I dunno... All I'll say is YMMV
The sister thing was weird too. The fact that they shared the same sex dungeon (separately, thank god) was just too squicky.
I know that's a lot of complaining for a 3, but there were some hot light bdsm scenes before we got into all the child abuse (sexual, emotional, physical). Wishing for the days when we could have a cold, mysterious hero with a soft spot for the h who doesn't have to have his gooey core opened by an often, IMHO, pushy h for "romance novel therapy". I know the strong, silent type is mostly a fantasy and not realistic, but neither is this branch of 'pop psychology' for lack of a better term.
1) the hero is a sadistic bastard and it's too much for me (see Carolyn Faulkner's Prima)
2) the hero is a poor, abused man-boy who has turned to domination to cure his demons (see this and 50 Shades of Grey)
I wish there were more where the hero is not a sadist and not using bdsm as therapy. More of a tough, sure-of-himself manly man who isn't a sadist, but unashamedly enjoys the spanking kink. I have found precious few. Sue Lyndon's Rules of War sort of fits, but it's not a consensual bdsm with all the rules and safe words. I think that one falls more into the domestic discipline genre.
The writing was not bad, but I can do without the endless info dumping re: the nature of the bdsm relationship and rules, etc etc. I can also more than do without the child abuse. It makes me sad, angry and casts a pall over the romance. Also, I don't know anyone in "the life" but find it hard to believe that it's always a sign of such abuse and that the Dom is, at heart, an angry victim who just needs a woman to truly love him.
The aftermath of the scene where the H loses it and goes too far could have been handled better. His remorse was sincere, but she forgave him far too easily, IMHO. Also, it being a big catharsis for him to confess his childhood horrors and heal through prayer was just.... I dunno... All I'll say is YMMV
The sister thing was weird too. The fact that they shared the same sex dungeon (separately, thank god) was just too squicky.
I know that's a lot of complaining for a 3, but there were some hot light bdsm scenes before we got into all the child abuse (sexual, emotional, physical). Wishing for the days when we could have a cold, mysterious hero with a soft spot for the h who doesn't have to have his gooey core opened by an often, IMHO, pushy h for "romance novel therapy". I know the strong, silent type is mostly a fantasy and not realistic, but neither is this branch of 'pop psychology' for lack of a better term.
October 9, 2018
ngl i usually steer CLEAR of bdsm cause that shit is just not for me
but alas
ive embraced my dark side.
5 stars. this book was delicious
but alas
ive embraced my dark side.
5 stars. this book was delicious
June 3, 2021
Loved this!
The hero fell in love first, he wanted her ...ALOT!
The first time he saw her, he instantly knew he wanted to make her his. So lucky for him that the heroines family was borderline impoverished and she had not much of a choice in marrying him, it wasn’t forced, but she still chose him.
He was a sadist basically. Had a HORRIFIC childhood that made him the ‘master’ (which I believe it to be the male dominant in bdsm play) he is today. He never smiled or laugh, it was borderline a condition he had, he didn’t know how to be happy. One day, He spied the heroine, in one of these balls, laughing and having fun, and he wanted her to essentially be his ‘salvation’, he wanted her to be the light in his world that will bring him out of darkness which he hopefully would eventually lead to an end of his dominating behavior once he married the heroine. But obviously, such things don’t come to an abrupt end...or end at all.
One day she finds him in his dungeon where he and another man (a random earl or some other titled gentleman) was training on of the female submissive ( the earls mistress). He was teaching the two of them the proper way to do BDSM without hurting each other....but to our poor innocent heroine, it looked as though the two men had tied up the women and were whipping her in turn....damn. So he turns around and sees his innocent wife and she bolts 🏃! I felt sorry for the hero aswell because this would’ve been his last BDSM lesson (they don’t actually use the term BDSM in the book but it’s easier to say on here🤷🏾♀️)
So obviously he runs after her and explains what he was doing, he ends up showing her that the earl and the mistress were actually okay and not beating her like a dog. So now she’s asking questions and long story short , they try things out which eventually leads her into becoming a submissive in the end. She really didn’t want her husband to have a mistress so she insisted on taking up the roll of a submissive ....and end up liking it.
She also discovers the secret about his past and understands why he is who He is. She fixes him and they still get there hot nights with the riding crop in hand 😛
The hero fell in love first, he wanted her ...ALOT!
The first time he saw her, he instantly knew he wanted to make her his. So lucky for him that the heroines family was borderline impoverished and she had not much of a choice in marrying him, it wasn’t forced, but she still chose him.
He was a sadist basically. Had a HORRIFIC childhood that made him the ‘master’ (which I believe it to be the male dominant in bdsm play) he is today. He never smiled or laugh, it was borderline a condition he had, he didn’t know how to be happy. One day, He spied the heroine, in one of these balls, laughing and having fun, and he wanted her to essentially be his ‘salvation’, he wanted her to be the light in his world that will bring him out of darkness which he hopefully would eventually lead to an end of his dominating behavior once he married the heroine. But obviously, such things don’t come to an abrupt end...or end at all.
One day she finds him in his dungeon where he and another man (a random earl or some other titled gentleman) was training on of the female submissive ( the earls mistress). He was teaching the two of them the proper way to do BDSM without hurting each other....but to our poor innocent heroine, it looked as though the two men had tied up the women and were whipping her in turn....damn. So he turns around and sees his innocent wife and she bolts 🏃! I felt sorry for the hero aswell because this would’ve been his last BDSM lesson (they don’t actually use the term BDSM in the book but it’s easier to say on here🤷🏾♀️)
So obviously he runs after her and explains what he was doing, he ends up showing her that the earl and the mistress were actually okay and not beating her like a dog. So now she’s asking questions and long story short , they try things out which eventually leads her into becoming a submissive in the end. She really didn’t want her husband to have a mistress so she insisted on taking up the roll of a submissive ....and end up liking it.
She also discovers the secret about his past and understands why he is who He is. She fixes him and they still get there hot nights with the riding crop in hand 😛
February 12, 2018
I have never felt this conflicted while reading and rating a book. While I particularly am not a champion of BDSM but then one cannot tell the depth of water unless one has tested oneself. Some of other bdsm books I have read have made me cringe as they always centred on only sex but this one was different , not that I am an arbiter of bdsm to even consult with. The hero marries the heroine by using the fact that her father needed money . Heroine is not quite so excited at the prospect, understanably so. But all hell breaks loose when she witness him observing and indulging in a bdsm tableau which ,since it is something new to her, seems disgusting to her. She thinks they were torturing the girl but then H explains her. Eventually she ask him to teach her the art of submission , which I think was a way to make him open up to her , acting on her sister in law's advice. She seems to enjoys ,though sometimes the pain is too much , the pleasure afterwards makes up for it. The hero still cant open up fully and when she tries to question his past when she chance upon some disturbing evidences ,all the angst ,bitterness ,anxiety bubbling beneath his gruff facade suddenly find a way out and explode, reliving all his unhappy and bitter past. He still has not been able to reconcile with unjust hand life played and so unable to come terms with his unexpected feeling for his wife. What he doesnt realises is life is never fair . You just have to accept and move on. His uncle was an embittered soul who thought that H snatched his right to marquessate. He became a violent man and a paedophile. The H was quite the same as he too let his bitterness rule over him yet when he saw a chance of light and salvation in the dark enveloping him, he grabbed it with both hands. That made him a better man.
I was unsure between 3 and 4 stars from beginning to end but then apology ,after that savage manifestation of his inner demons in brutal sex , made the decision. Its always easy to ask forgiveness from those in professional spheres of our lives or even friends, but our ego always comes up in relations we feel more close to and it becomes more hard to apologise to them. So it was quite brave of him to own up to his mistake. Yes ,the h forgave him way too easily but maybe she was too overwhelmed by the accident. Overall it was a good read.
I was unsure between 3 and 4 stars from beginning to end but then apology ,after that savage manifestation of his inner demons in brutal sex , made the decision. Its always easy to ask forgiveness from those in professional spheres of our lives or even friends, but our ego always comes up in relations we feel more close to and it becomes more hard to apologise to them. So it was quite brave of him to own up to his mistake. Yes ,the h forgave him way too easily but maybe she was too overwhelmed by the accident. Overall it was a good read.
June 30, 2021
This wasn't an easy book to read. It dealt with a lot of dark issues such as paedophilia and rape (which could be a TW for some). Especially the scene at the stable where the hero lost control and raped his wife. Before that, he almost killed a man (with good reason but still). He used BDSM as a means to forget the years he was abused by his uncle. I honestly think this acts as a band aid and he seriously needs therapy. I wasn't comfortable with the fact that the wife took him back almost immediately after the rape in the stable. I know that the author didn't mean to condone rape but it felt as if she was. So, I couldn't comfortably recommend this book. The writing was exquisite as always hence the 3 stars.
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December 12, 2020
As the first book I read by Victoria Vale, I was mightily impressed by the first few chapters of Submitting to the Marquis. I feel like I am always impressed by a new historical erotica novelist whose stories have a plot. I enjoyed the BDSM language here too, however I did lose interest about halfway through simply because the marquis was another dom with a sad past, and I didn't particularly feel the couple's love.
Essentially, Lady Sophie Baxter marries a man she doesn't know, a Marquis of Ashton, Simon Fitzwilliam. Unbeknownst to her, Simon fell in love with her at first glance at a country party and after doing his due diligence of creeping on her and making sure she checks out all right on paper, he decides to marry her.
Sophie is compelled into the marriage since Simon's money will save her family from financial ruin while Simon hopes Sophie can cure him of his BDSM tendencies. Sophie is one of these heroines with an inner light, a warmth and vitality to her that Simon craves because he is very cold.
Their marriage goes well until Sophie finds out what is behind Door Number Three, a literal door that Simon tells her to never go peek into, which leads to a BDSM dungeon where Simon is training subs for his friends and acquaintances.
This is where the plot stopped becoming interesting to me but you can sort of take it from there. IDK why but it failed to continue to capture my attention after this point. I already knew where this was going, and the psychological development and the BDSM stuff never went beyond the surface, which is why I checked out.
Essentially, Lady Sophie Baxter marries a man she doesn't know, a Marquis of Ashton, Simon Fitzwilliam. Unbeknownst to her, Simon fell in love with her at first glance at a country party and after doing his due diligence of creeping on her and making sure she checks out all right on paper, he decides to marry her.
Sophie is compelled into the marriage since Simon's money will save her family from financial ruin while Simon hopes Sophie can cure him of his BDSM tendencies. Sophie is one of these heroines with an inner light, a warmth and vitality to her that Simon craves because he is very cold.
Their marriage goes well until Sophie finds out what is behind Door Number Three, a literal door that Simon tells her to never go peek into, which leads to a BDSM dungeon where Simon is training subs for his friends and acquaintances.
This is where the plot stopped becoming interesting to me but you can sort of take it from there. IDK why but it failed to continue to capture my attention after this point. I already knew where this was going, and the psychological development and the BDSM stuff never went beyond the surface, which is why I checked out.
May 29, 2018
Emotional and erotic, this is one of the most tortured (and rightfully so) heroes I've read in a long time. Nice story about growing to love and redemption.
July 2, 2018
THIS. BOOK. IS. AMAZING.
This is my favorite of the entire series thus far and I honestly don’t think any other one can live up to this one. It made me cry, it made me smile and it definitely made my imagination wonder. Beautifully written, sexy and sensual with the heart and soul of a seasoned story, it was hard to believe this was a standalone novel because of the depth expressed in these pages!
There is a huge trigger warning for sexual assault, rape and child abuse in this book, so keep that in mind, but it was just such a beautiful story and it is definitely one that I will never forget because I loved it so much!
This is my favorite of the entire series thus far and I honestly don’t think any other one can live up to this one. It made me cry, it made me smile and it definitely made my imagination wonder. Beautifully written, sexy and sensual with the heart and soul of a seasoned story, it was hard to believe this was a standalone novel because of the depth expressed in these pages!
There is a huge trigger warning for sexual assault, rape and child abuse in this book, so keep that in mind, but it was just such a beautiful story and it is definitely one that I will never forget because I loved it so much!
April 5, 2018
Another great story by Ms. Vale!! The characters were flawed, yet fascinating, and the storyline compelling. Sophie was pure goodness and likeable from the beginning. The reader couldn't help but root for her to bring Simon around to the light side. Simon's back story is heartbreaking, and quite honestly, hard to stomach, but necessary to explain his deep rooted darkness. The BDSM elements were hot and steamy (a fabulous recurrence with Ms. Vale's writing), but there was also a tenderness to the scenes that was endearing. Above all, love won and the ending left my heart happy and I look forward to reading about Amelia's journey in the next installment!!
April 19, 2018
I am really hooked on Victoria's books! This was another well-written novel which stuck to the authenticity of the regency period and gave us a delicious taste of the lives of Sophie and Simon. I can't wait to keep reading the books in this series, especially to learn more about Amelia!
June 10, 2018
In The Sunshine🌞 Of Her Love💘
Sophie💃💋 is the daughter of an Earl, but they are rather poor. She has a lady's manners but her clothes are almost shabby. Yet she has a wonderful, happy, outlook on life.
Her father has found a way out of his debt by marrying her 👰off to the scariest titled man in the area, Simon🐺🍆🌋✋, the Marquis of Ashton. He is an extremely wealthy and ruthless business man. He always gets what he wants, and he wants Sophie💃💋. He is willing to pay a huge sum of 💰money to the Earl for Sophie's hand👰 in marriage.
Simon🐺🍆🌋✋ is an uptight outasight guy, and he gets his jollies by hanging out in his dungeon, flogging various mistresses. He's a true tenth degree Spankenstein!✋✋✋
He wants just one beautiful woman to call his own, to be his willing and loving submissive. One sweet young woman he can train to accept his twisted needs✋✋. One beautiful, happy young woman who will draw him out of his darkness✋ and make him happy. Maybe she will even make him laugh! That woman is Sophie.💃💋
Sophie💃💋 is the daughter of an Earl, but they are rather poor. She has a lady's manners but her clothes are almost shabby. Yet she has a wonderful, happy, outlook on life.
Her father has found a way out of his debt by marrying her 👰off to the scariest titled man in the area, Simon🐺🍆🌋✋, the Marquis of Ashton. He is an extremely wealthy and ruthless business man. He always gets what he wants, and he wants Sophie💃💋. He is willing to pay a huge sum of 💰money to the Earl for Sophie's hand👰 in marriage.
Simon🐺🍆🌋✋ is an uptight outasight guy, and he gets his jollies by hanging out in his dungeon, flogging various mistresses. He's a true tenth degree Spankenstein!✋✋✋
He wants just one beautiful woman to call his own, to be his willing and loving submissive. One sweet young woman he can train to accept his twisted needs✋✋. One beautiful, happy young woman who will draw him out of his darkness✋ and make him happy. Maybe she will even make him laugh! That woman is Sophie.💃💋
June 10, 2024
Incest child rape, rape trauma for MMC. He also finds his wife with a man attempting to rape her, so he gets rid of him, whips her with a crop and rapes her himself. She runs off but gets lost in a storm and is cold. He finds her so she forgives him. If you forgive and fall in love with your rapist, please comment below.
June 9, 2017
This was the first Victoria Vale book that I read. I liked the plot and the characters.
September 24, 2017
4.5 stars
Erotic, but emotional. Might be her best book in the series. Emotionally wounded hero and lovely heroine.
Erotic, but emotional. Might be her best book in the series. Emotionally wounded hero and lovely heroine.
December 2, 2018
I quite liked this story. It was quick to read and did have a certain thoroughness about it. Not my favourite of VV, but I will read the next chapter in this series. 3.5☆
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December 24, 2022DNF. Couldn’t connect with either character.
September 18, 2017
Lady Sophie Baxter must wed a wealthy lord as soon as possible so that her families financial problems can be eased. Simon Fitzwilliam, Marquis of Ashton a man known amongst the ton for being as cold and aloof as he is rich and powerful saw Sophie at a house party & was struck by her demeanour. Sophie cannot help but wonder if there isn’t more to the marquis than meets the eye. Curiosity leads her to accept the marquis’ marriage offer, and before long she learns that Simon’s secrets are far darker than she could have ever imagined.
Sophie is the light to Simon’s darkness & he hopes her lightness will ease his tortured soul. Although I’m not a fan of BDSM novels I do really like the author’s books, they are well written & there is a story rather than just graphic sex & the characterisations are very good indeed. This is a romantic & erotic book. Sophie is a lovely heroine, she’s an optimist & sees the good everywhere which is exactly what Simon needs to help him. At first I thought Sophie would flounder but she drew on her inner strength & before very long she is calling the shots. Simon had a horrid childhood & the true extent is gradually revealed, I found it so touching when he laughed
Sophie is the light to Simon’s darkness & he hopes her lightness will ease his tortured soul. Although I’m not a fan of BDSM novels I do really like the author’s books, they are well written & there is a story rather than just graphic sex & the characterisations are very good indeed. This is a romantic & erotic book. Sophie is a lovely heroine, she’s an optimist & sees the good everywhere which is exactly what Simon needs to help him. At first I thought Sophie would flounder but she drew on her inner strength & before very long she is calling the shots. Simon had a horrid childhood & the true extent is gradually revealed, I found it so touching when he laughed
June 6, 2019
Loved this historical romance which had a touch of dark & lots of light!!
June 12, 2019
THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING! I absolutely loved it! The only reason I gave it 4 out of 5 stars is because I thought it was really really stupid of Sophie to think it’s a good idea to shackle her husband to a bed and have sex with him after finding out he was sexually abused by his uncle for many years. Because that’s logical and makes sense, right??? So stupid. Other than that, I thought the subject matter was handle well and sensitively. Plus their love story was really lovely too. I will definitely be rereading this and recommending it to everyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2020
BDSM in historical setting, the H has significant behavioural issues caused by childhood trauma. He arranges to marry a suitable bride who is young and seems sweet. She's also far more clever that he realises and she helps him to accept himself. Her submission and kindness helps him to open up with her. Loved this couple. One of the better BDSM books I've read.
January 12, 2022
Pretty rote kink plot, I appreciated that the naive heroine had agency but fell into my least favorite kind of romance couple trope, which is two people who never talk about anything but themselves somehow fall passionately in love.
November 24, 2019
Only the author will understand this - I CANNOT believe I didn't review this book the first time I read it, instead of the 12th.
I owe a huge apology to Victoria Vale, the author of my very favorite Regency book ever. I first read this book over 2 years ago, I think, and was so enamored of Sophronia and her Marquis of Ashton, Lord Simon Fitzwilliam. And throughout all the historicals, all the Regency romances and erotica, through all the contemporaries I've read, this is the one book I come back to, to re-read every few months (well that, and another one of her books, the Duology of The Villain and the Dove).
Sigh...she writes such swoon-worthy men.
This is one book that I will never be able to do justice to in any review. It is THE book that caused me to fall in love with Victoria Vale's writing. It is the book that brought Simon and Sophie into my life. And it is the book that convinced me that the portrayal of Simon has to be the best writing of a Dominant Master that I'd read for a long time. A Master who had been abused as a child, and suffered losses that he kept hidden from all. All except his bride, the exquisite and sexy Sophie.
If you like erotica, and you love a good story (emphasis on good) about BDSM in those times, do not hesitate to grab this book and hold on tight. My Simon is about to take you on a ride you will never, ever forget. These two characters, as well as Simon's sister Amelia, were written with a loving hand, and crafted very carefully for this book. Ms. Vale didn't miss a beat in building this marriage. In fact, she didn't miss a detail when building this life for them. I know the author has done a lot of research, but when authors start mentioning London street names I will head straight to a map and check it out. Let me say that Simon's "townhouse" probably still stands, divided into flats worth millions. And that made the book all the more "alive" for me, to know that yes, that character really could have lived on that street at that time.
As to the story - the plot was very well drawn, the secondary characters carefully added, but most of all the whole book was paced quite nicely. The first time I read this, I read it in one sitting, totally sucked into the story. And because I needed to, I read it again last month (just to get my fix of Simon's crop), and it just gets better.
Kudos to Miss Vale. I still wouldn't mind taking a trip through that brain of yours to see what other story ideas you can cook up. But for lack of that, I will tell you that I haven't found even one of your books that I did not enjoy. You are, quite frankly, the bees knees.
I owe a huge apology to Victoria Vale, the author of my very favorite Regency book ever. I first read this book over 2 years ago, I think, and was so enamored of Sophronia and her Marquis of Ashton, Lord Simon Fitzwilliam. And throughout all the historicals, all the Regency romances and erotica, through all the contemporaries I've read, this is the one book I come back to, to re-read every few months (well that, and another one of her books, the Duology of The Villain and the Dove).
Sigh...she writes such swoon-worthy men.
This is one book that I will never be able to do justice to in any review. It is THE book that caused me to fall in love with Victoria Vale's writing. It is the book that brought Simon and Sophie into my life. And it is the book that convinced me that the portrayal of Simon has to be the best writing of a Dominant Master that I'd read for a long time. A Master who had been abused as a child, and suffered losses that he kept hidden from all. All except his bride, the exquisite and sexy Sophie.
If you like erotica, and you love a good story (emphasis on good) about BDSM in those times, do not hesitate to grab this book and hold on tight. My Simon is about to take you on a ride you will never, ever forget. These two characters, as well as Simon's sister Amelia, were written with a loving hand, and crafted very carefully for this book. Ms. Vale didn't miss a beat in building this marriage. In fact, she didn't miss a detail when building this life for them. I know the author has done a lot of research, but when authors start mentioning London street names I will head straight to a map and check it out. Let me say that Simon's "townhouse" probably still stands, divided into flats worth millions. And that made the book all the more "alive" for me, to know that yes, that character really could have lived on that street at that time.
As to the story - the plot was very well drawn, the secondary characters carefully added, but most of all the whole book was paced quite nicely. The first time I read this, I read it in one sitting, totally sucked into the story. And because I needed to, I read it again last month (just to get my fix of Simon's crop), and it just gets better.
Kudos to Miss Vale. I still wouldn't mind taking a trip through that brain of yours to see what other story ideas you can cook up. But for lack of that, I will tell you that I haven't found even one of your books that I did not enjoy. You are, quite frankly, the bees knees.
February 24, 2019
I Liked the Love Story 4.5
It took me a few months to gather up the courage to read this book. The submission part is an entirely new realm of reading for me and I was not quite sure I will enjoy reading about it in a historical love story but I have read two books in the series (Masquerade and Her Beautiful Bastard) and liked it so I gave this a try.
Simon, the hero, has a tortured/ dark past and the first time he saw Sophie, the innocent heroine, he knew that her lightness and goodness might just be the thing to pull him out of his darkness. Sophie was intrigued by him but also married him because of financial reasons. I like how open the characters are to their attraction and rising above their limitations. Of course, the hero has his secrets and his sexual proclivities that eventually the heroine found out. That is part of the journey of them embracing each other as husband and wife and having a future together and love. There are explicit sex scenes and dominance/submission but the love story (and I) was not overwhelmed by it. It actually was written seamlessly with the love story between Simon and Sophie. The book has love, humor, a bit of action, some drama- it is quite the complete well balanced package. And I liked the characters well. the .5 lacking is just for the editing and minor inconsistencies.
This might be the last book I will read in this series as the other three books (that feature more adventurous eroticism) might take more openness and courage from me. I took a risk in reading this book and I was not disappointed
It took me a few months to gather up the courage to read this book. The submission part is an entirely new realm of reading for me and I was not quite sure I will enjoy reading about it in a historical love story but I have read two books in the series (Masquerade and Her Beautiful Bastard) and liked it so I gave this a try.
Simon, the hero, has a tortured/ dark past and the first time he saw Sophie, the innocent heroine, he knew that her lightness and goodness might just be the thing to pull him out of his darkness. Sophie was intrigued by him but also married him because of financial reasons. I like how open the characters are to their attraction and rising above their limitations. Of course, the hero has his secrets and his sexual proclivities that eventually the heroine found out. That is part of the journey of them embracing each other as husband and wife and having a future together and love. There are explicit sex scenes and dominance/submission but the love story (and I) was not overwhelmed by it. It actually was written seamlessly with the love story between Simon and Sophie. The book has love, humor, a bit of action, some drama- it is quite the complete well balanced package. And I liked the characters well. the .5 lacking is just for the editing and minor inconsistencies.
This might be the last book I will read in this series as the other three books (that feature more adventurous eroticism) might take more openness and courage from me. I took a risk in reading this book and I was not disappointed
December 5, 2022
Simon and Sophie
Another very well done story by Victoria Vale. This tale involves Sophie, who has never met the man that offered for her hand in marriage and Simon, a haunted Marquis who saw Sophie’s inner light as a path to his own salvation. Simon suffered horrendous abuse from his uncle while he was growing up so he surrounded himself with an impenetrable shield in order to survive. Simon did not share his past with Sofie thinking she would see him as a monster and leave him. Also unknown to Sofie was that Simon was a practitioner of bdsm and was a dominant and a master and had a dungeon in their London home full of his tools of the trade. He was determined to keep that aspect of his life from his new, young wife. After discovering this about her husband and learning about the lifestyle, Sofie wanted Simon to teach her into becoming his submissive. Their journey as husband and wife, dominant and submissive sets Simon on a path to face his past with Sofie while it deepens and strengthens their bonds as a couple. This is a very erotic, very sexy story about two people who explore dominance and submission, pain and pleasure, love and healing. Simon’s sister, Amelia, is a very important supporting character in the story, leading to a book of her own, the next in the series.
Another very well done story by Victoria Vale. This tale involves Sophie, who has never met the man that offered for her hand in marriage and Simon, a haunted Marquis who saw Sophie’s inner light as a path to his own salvation. Simon suffered horrendous abuse from his uncle while he was growing up so he surrounded himself with an impenetrable shield in order to survive. Simon did not share his past with Sofie thinking she would see him as a monster and leave him. Also unknown to Sofie was that Simon was a practitioner of bdsm and was a dominant and a master and had a dungeon in their London home full of his tools of the trade. He was determined to keep that aspect of his life from his new, young wife. After discovering this about her husband and learning about the lifestyle, Sofie wanted Simon to teach her into becoming his submissive. Their journey as husband and wife, dominant and submissive sets Simon on a path to face his past with Sofie while it deepens and strengthens their bonds as a couple. This is a very erotic, very sexy story about two people who explore dominance and submission, pain and pleasure, love and healing. Simon’s sister, Amelia, is a very important supporting character in the story, leading to a book of her own, the next in the series.
December 30, 2019
Submitting to the Marquis is everything Fifty Shades of Grey wasn't for BDSM and troubled leading men. Victoria Vale's story introduces the heroine to a life of BDSM. It actually goes over the correct way to handle a scene with a Dom/Sub situation. Unlike many books that make the subs look weak and easily controlled Submitting to the Marquis really goes into the strength it takes to completely submit. The trust between the Dom and Sub. It shows the power of safe words and hard limits. Does Simon's past play into why he likes to be in control? Yes it does, but Victoria Vale shows how the desire is part of who he is not just what he's experienced. I loved that this book showed the healing power of a trusting sexual relationship between a husband and wife. Simon was so we'll written. You feel his journey from seeing Sophie and wanting to be part of her lightness and joy to actually opening up and feeling emotions. Not all of it is easy for the couple there are some dark moments and possible triggers for some people. I really enjoyed how the book shows that there is a community of people involved in BDSM in this time period. Life wasn't all walks in the park and chaste kisses. Wonderful read. The whole series is great!
February 3, 2020
Submitting to the Marquis is the fourth book in the Scandalous Ballroom Encounters series. Set in London, 1817. This is an explicit erotic historical romance that is well-paced with an interesting plot. It’s a captivating read. I usually steer clear of storylines that include rape and incest, therefore this book is for the discerning reader.
(1)Masquerade: 5 stars: Camden & Margaret
(4)Submitting to the Marquis: 5 stars:Simon & Sophie
Lady Sophronia Baxter, Sophie, must wed a wealthy Lord by the end of the season, or risk the ruin of her family. She’s a gutsy and honest Heroine and a good match for the Hero.
Lord Simon Fitzwilliam, Marquis of Ashton, speaks to others in a way that brooks no argument. With the status of being one of the wealthiest peers in the realm, he is a stoic Hero who always has his sights set on what he wants. A more formidable member of the peerage could not be found in all of England. Simon and his sister had a strict upbringing after the losses of their parents. Simon, being the older brother, bore unspeakable horrors protecting his sister. I like the story of when he first saw Sophie.
Simon and Sophie’s attraction is a gradual build-up of conversations, and those once-a-day questions they ask each other after they wed. I really like their connection because it feels genuine and honest. Their relationship eventually takes on the predilections of Dom and Sub which is fascinating.
I recommend this book. I recommend this series.
I have chosen not to read books two and three.
(1)Masquerade: 5 stars: Camden & Margaret
(4)Submitting to the Marquis: 5 stars:Simon & Sophie
Lady Sophronia Baxter, Sophie, must wed a wealthy Lord by the end of the season, or risk the ruin of her family. She’s a gutsy and honest Heroine and a good match for the Hero.
Lord Simon Fitzwilliam, Marquis of Ashton, speaks to others in a way that brooks no argument. With the status of being one of the wealthiest peers in the realm, he is a stoic Hero who always has his sights set on what he wants. A more formidable member of the peerage could not be found in all of England. Simon and his sister had a strict upbringing after the losses of their parents. Simon, being the older brother, bore unspeakable horrors protecting his sister. I like the story of when he first saw Sophie.
Simon and Sophie’s attraction is a gradual build-up of conversations, and those once-a-day questions they ask each other after they wed. I really like their connection because it feels genuine and honest. Their relationship eventually takes on the predilections of Dom and Sub which is fascinating.
I recommend this book. I recommend this series.
I have chosen not to read books two and three.
February 4, 2020
I do not normally read Regency Romance, so I’m not quite sure what made me step out of my comfort zone to read this book. I also normally read series in order, and this was the first in this series I found. Now, I’m going to go back and check out the beginning of the series.
I found this book in Audible Escape and listened to it from there. The narrator was great.
I loved this book because of the characters of Simon and Sophie. Sophie’s consistent, steadfast caring and love of Simon as he worked through all of his issues until he realized he loved her made this book great. Both characters were well thought out and endearing. Other than Simon’s sister and an evil neighbor, there were few side characters to worry with, just Simon and Sophie getting to know each other throughout.
Definitely a great read that I highly recommend.
I found this book in Audible Escape and listened to it from there. The narrator was great.
I loved this book because of the characters of Simon and Sophie. Sophie’s consistent, steadfast caring and love of Simon as he worked through all of his issues until he realized he loved her made this book great. Both characters were well thought out and endearing. Other than Simon’s sister and an evil neighbor, there were few side characters to worry with, just Simon and Sophie getting to know each other throughout.
Definitely a great read that I highly recommend.
April 28, 2020
Nice story - it definitely was a good way to pass the morning and not wallow in boredom.
I love historicals, and I love steamy romances, so this was basically the best of two worlds. The BDSM... yeah, I enjoy that too, but in this book it felt a bit strained as Simon (the male MC) kept self-flagellating himself on how bad and depraved his dark tastes were, yada yada yada... That was definitely not enjoyable, so it became irritating after a bit.
Also, Amelia (Simon’s sister)... my gawd, but she was so fucking hateable. She grated on my nerves constantly. Just mentioning her name would make me scoff. She had a hard past? Waaah waaah, grow up. I had no sympathy for her whatsoever, or for other people acting that way because of a ‘difficult past’. It doesn’t give you an excuse to act like a bitch. Nobody is forcing you to be nasty, you’re doing it yourself.
I love historicals, and I love steamy romances, so this was basically the best of two worlds. The BDSM... yeah, I enjoy that too, but in this book it felt a bit strained as Simon (the male MC) kept self-flagellating himself on how bad and depraved his dark tastes were, yada yada yada... That was definitely not enjoyable, so it became irritating after a bit.
Also, Amelia (Simon’s sister)... my gawd, but she was so fucking hateable. She grated on my nerves constantly. Just mentioning her name would make me scoff. She had a hard past? Waaah waaah, grow up. I had no sympathy for her whatsoever, or for other people acting that way because of a ‘difficult past’. It doesn’t give you an excuse to act like a bitch. Nobody is forcing you to be nasty, you’re doing it yourself.
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