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Bow Street Brides #2
A Dangerous Proposal
Felicity Atwood's life was a debutante's dream. She had a wealthy husband, two beautiful children, and an elegant townhouse in Grosvenor Square. Everything was perfect...until her husband publicly left her for his mistress and her dream turned into a nightmare. Now she's divorced, destitute, and bordering on desperate.
A CHARMING THIEF...
Felix Spencer has never met a piece of jewelry he couldn't steal or a pretty woman he couldn't charm...until Felicity. A cunning thief turned Bow Street Runner, he's exactly the sort of man she has been taught to avoid at all costs. But try as she might she cannot forget the kiss he stole from her...or the way she feels when she's wrapped in his arms.
A DANGEROUS PROPOSAL...
Determined to possess the dark-haired beauty, Felix sets out to prove himself worthy of her love only to quickly discover Felicity's heart is the one thing he cannot steal. Having been hurt by men twice before, she doesn't trust the charming rake any further than she can throw him. But when she finds herself unwittingly entangled in a deadly conspiracy, Felix is the only one she can turn to. Somehow she must find the courage to trust him with her heart...or risk losing her life.
A CHARMING THIEF...
Felix Spencer has never met a piece of jewelry he couldn't steal or a pretty woman he couldn't charm...until Felicity. A cunning thief turned Bow Street Runner, he's exactly the sort of man she has been taught to avoid at all costs. But try as she might she cannot forget the kiss he stole from her...or the way she feels when she's wrapped in his arms.
A DANGEROUS PROPOSAL...
Determined to possess the dark-haired beauty, Felix sets out to prove himself worthy of her love only to quickly discover Felicity's heart is the one thing he cannot steal. Having been hurt by men twice before, she doesn't trust the charming rake any further than she can throw him. But when she finds herself unwittingly entangled in a deadly conspiracy, Felix is the only one she can turn to. Somehow she must find the courage to trust him with her heart...or risk losing her life.
300 pages, ebook
First published July 25, 2017
346 people are currently reading
749 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Eaton
90 books490 followersJillian Eaton has written over forty historical romances and is known for finding the perfect balance between "intense emotions, sizzling chemistry, and light-hearted humor" (Swept Away by Romance). She grew up in Maine and now lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and their three boys on a 17-acre farm where they rescue and rehabilitate senior horses.
When she isn't writing, working at the barn, or playing a cutthroat game of Harry Potter Monopoly with her family, Jillian enjoys gardening, hiking, and being an adjunct professor at her Alma mater, Delaware Valley University.
If readers are new to her books, she always suggests the following:
Sweet and Swoony Romance: Duke at First Sight
Spicy and Mysterious: A Dangerous Seduction
All Around: Bewitched by the Bluestocking
Bit Darker: The Duchess Takes a Lover
When she isn't writing, working at the barn, or playing a cutthroat game of Harry Potter Monopoly with her family, Jillian enjoys gardening, hiking, and being an adjunct professor at her Alma mater, Delaware Valley University.
If readers are new to her books, she always suggests the following:
Sweet and Swoony Romance: Duke at First Sight
Spicy and Mysterious: A Dangerous Seduction
All Around: Bewitched by the Bluestocking
Bit Darker: The Duchess Takes a Lover
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
September 6, 2017
I'm loving Jillian Eaton's voice. The first book in this series, A Dangerous Seduction was a really fun read, and this one met all of my expectations as well. A few things to note: First, the heroine in this book was raped a few years prior to this book starting. It's briefly relived in a flashback and it's mentioned a few times as the heroine is still trying to move past it.
Also, Felicity, our heroine in this book, starts out as divorced. The author includes a note describing the extremely rare divorce process and how lengthy it would be. She notes that she sped up the process and glossed over some details for the sake of this book. If you are a stickler for this sort of thing in your historical romance - now you know.
Felicity has gone from being married and well respected in the ton, going to events, having a new wardrobe every season, to taking her two young children to a rented flat in the east end, and not knowing how she is even going to buy plates for them to eat off of. She is strong though - she isn't whiny, or sad to miss material items. Her husband was cold and not a good father and while she was absolutely shocked that he asked for a divorce, she isn't mourning her relationship with him. She has had a difficult past - she was raped by her friend's husband and became pregnant with his child during her marriage. That man is now dead (this all happened in book one) and she loves her son more than anything else. She has moved past the rape as best she can, and is now trying to move past the divorce, with only a few friends left. One of them, being a woman named Scarlett and her husband, who is captain of the bow street runners (hero and heroine from book one).
Our hero is another bow street runners named Felix. Felicity first met him a year ago when he broke into Scarlett's house and was stealing her jewelry. Felicity caught him, and the ordeal ended with a kiss. Felicity couldn't believe it and has never forgotten him. Felix has changed his ways, and went from jewelry thief, to the man catching jewelry thieves. He is a charmer, stubborn, and such a sweet hero. I adored him. He has been keeping an eye on Felicity and when he notices that she moves to a very bad part of town, he makes his presence known and tells her he wants to keep her safe. He also admits that he wants to court her. Felicity, although secretly yearning for him, will not hear of it - as she is already ruined in society and has two kids to raise and barely a roof over her head. But Felix won't leave her alone and an adorable courtship unfolds.
I love a courtship in a romance book. A romance that isn't rushed (I've read a lot of books under 200 pages recently), a hero who doesn't give up. Who takes the heroine on walks. Who makes an effort to get to know her...outside of the bedroom. Who takes her on a date. Who introduces himself to her mother. Felix does all of this.
"What are you doing here, Mr. Spencer?"
"I've brought ye breakfast." He glanced down at his right hand and for the first time Felicity noticed he was carrying a basket filled with all sorts of delicious looking pastries, from blueberry scones to buttery saffron buns.
"Why would you do such a thing?" she asked even as her mouth watered.
He looked at her oddly, as if the answer should have been obvious. "I'm courting ye, Miss Atwood."
He has his romantic side, but he is also a bit of a stinker
"Mr. Spencer!" This time Felicity punctuated her words with a hard stomp of her foot.
Felix blinked. "What the devil 'ave I done now?"
"You're still staring." More color flooded her cheeks. "At - at my bosom."
So he was. "And where else would I look?"
Felicity tries to fend him off and he keeps showing up. He gives her a bit of a hard time, and always has a comeback when she tries to shoo him away. He doesn't let her hide behind her divorce - and her situation in life, and I found that romantic.
I adored Felicity too. She is just lovely - she has her moments of breaking down because her life really is falling apart around her. She also has a hard time being physically intimate at first with Felix due to her past rape. But she allows Felix to help her, and while her greatest fear is that he will leave her one day, she eventually lets her heart lead the way. She is a really fun heroine.
"You are not a thief any monger. You are a Runner. Which means you cannot just go around stealing things."
His grin turned wolfish as he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her snugly against his side, breathing in the alluring scent of her hair. She smelled of honeysuckle, and night, and promises unfulfilled.
"I stole ye, didn't I?" he whispered into her ear.
She pushed her hand half-heartedly against his chest. "You have not stolen anything."
"I beg to differ." He dipped his head to nuzzle the slender curve of her neck. "Ye want me, Miss Atwood. Ye can admit it."
Highly recommend this one. The reason there is a minus attached to the A below, is that there is a very brief suspense moment at the end of the book that felt out of place. Otherwise, I loved every second. Can't wait for another one.
Grade: A-
Also, Felicity, our heroine in this book, starts out as divorced. The author includes a note describing the extremely rare divorce process and how lengthy it would be. She notes that she sped up the process and glossed over some details for the sake of this book. If you are a stickler for this sort of thing in your historical romance - now you know.
Felicity has gone from being married and well respected in the ton, going to events, having a new wardrobe every season, to taking her two young children to a rented flat in the east end, and not knowing how she is even going to buy plates for them to eat off of. She is strong though - she isn't whiny, or sad to miss material items. Her husband was cold and not a good father and while she was absolutely shocked that he asked for a divorce, she isn't mourning her relationship with him. She has had a difficult past - she was raped by her friend's husband and became pregnant with his child during her marriage. That man is now dead (this all happened in book one) and she loves her son more than anything else. She has moved past the rape as best she can, and is now trying to move past the divorce, with only a few friends left. One of them, being a woman named Scarlett and her husband, who is captain of the bow street runners (hero and heroine from book one).
Our hero is another bow street runners named Felix. Felicity first met him a year ago when he broke into Scarlett's house and was stealing her jewelry. Felicity caught him, and the ordeal ended with a kiss. Felicity couldn't believe it and has never forgotten him. Felix has changed his ways, and went from jewelry thief, to the man catching jewelry thieves. He is a charmer, stubborn, and such a sweet hero. I adored him. He has been keeping an eye on Felicity and when he notices that she moves to a very bad part of town, he makes his presence known and tells her he wants to keep her safe. He also admits that he wants to court her. Felicity, although secretly yearning for him, will not hear of it - as she is already ruined in society and has two kids to raise and barely a roof over her head. But Felix won't leave her alone and an adorable courtship unfolds.
I love a courtship in a romance book. A romance that isn't rushed (I've read a lot of books under 200 pages recently), a hero who doesn't give up. Who takes the heroine on walks. Who makes an effort to get to know her...outside of the bedroom. Who takes her on a date. Who introduces himself to her mother. Felix does all of this.
"What are you doing here, Mr. Spencer?"
"I've brought ye breakfast." He glanced down at his right hand and for the first time Felicity noticed he was carrying a basket filled with all sorts of delicious looking pastries, from blueberry scones to buttery saffron buns.
"Why would you do such a thing?" she asked even as her mouth watered.
He looked at her oddly, as if the answer should have been obvious. "I'm courting ye, Miss Atwood."
He has his romantic side, but he is also a bit of a stinker
"Mr. Spencer!" This time Felicity punctuated her words with a hard stomp of her foot.
Felix blinked. "What the devil 'ave I done now?"
"You're still staring." More color flooded her cheeks. "At - at my bosom."
So he was. "And where else would I look?"
Felicity tries to fend him off and he keeps showing up. He gives her a bit of a hard time, and always has a comeback when she tries to shoo him away. He doesn't let her hide behind her divorce - and her situation in life, and I found that romantic.
I adored Felicity too. She is just lovely - she has her moments of breaking down because her life really is falling apart around her. She also has a hard time being physically intimate at first with Felix due to her past rape. But she allows Felix to help her, and while her greatest fear is that he will leave her one day, she eventually lets her heart lead the way. She is a really fun heroine.
"You are not a thief any monger. You are a Runner. Which means you cannot just go around stealing things."
His grin turned wolfish as he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her snugly against his side, breathing in the alluring scent of her hair. She smelled of honeysuckle, and night, and promises unfulfilled.
"I stole ye, didn't I?" he whispered into her ear.
She pushed her hand half-heartedly against his chest. "You have not stolen anything."
"I beg to differ." He dipped his head to nuzzle the slender curve of her neck. "Ye want me, Miss Atwood. Ye can admit it."
Highly recommend this one. The reason there is a minus attached to the A below, is that there is a very brief suspense moment at the end of the book that felt out of place. Otherwise, I loved every second. Can't wait for another one.
Grade: A-
October 27, 2019
Damn this one was Sooo Freakin Good!!
This was the best of the series!
This was the best of the series!
January 19, 2022
This book had so much potential: a divorced woman in the 1800s, a jewel thief turned Bow Street runner, class differences, and yet it never really rose to the occasion. The prologue was great and things started off strong, but then sort of lost momentum midway. Extra points for the heroine’s cute kids.
August 27, 2023
This was a sweet romance. Not much steam to speak of but a beautiful courtship from a loveable Scoundrel.
Unnecessary suspense in the end however.
Lovely little kids and a great second chance for a divorcee abandoned by her husband for his mistress.
Also a rape survivor story too.
4 stars
1 on the spice scale
Unnecessary suspense in the end however.
Lovely little kids and a great second chance for a divorcee abandoned by her husband for his mistress.
Also a rape survivor story too.
4 stars
1 on the spice scale
May 10, 2018
Originally reviewed here @ Angieville
It has been a very lovely year thus far when it comes to new-to-me authors. Some years are like that, while others (I'm thinking of last year in particular) are often quieter and filled with familiar voices. Both are wonderful. But I confess to being rather thrilled that this year has held so many new authors. As part of my previously mentioned (and apparently ongoing) historical binge, I recently ran across the work of Jillian Eaton by way of her Bow Street Brides series. Side note: I find myself reading about many brides this year. Brides are positively in abundance, especially around Bow Street and Belgravia. A Dangerous Proposal is the second book in the series and my clear favorite so far. The third book just released in March and is sitting on my Kindle waiting to be started as I type this. This series involves a number of mysteries featuring interlocking characters, and I very much enjoyed that aspect of it all.
Felicity Atwood does not recognize her life. The whole of it went so suddenly and so irrevocably south that she and her two young children are still struggling to pick up the pieces. Though she remains Lady Ashworth, she is no longer married to Lord Ashworth. The divorce took care of that. Now he lives with his new wife (and former mistress), while Felicity and the children he no longer wants anything to do with are forced to get by on their own in the decidedly dodgier part of town. Enter one Mr. Felix Spencer, former jewel thief turned Bow Street Runner. Felix and Felicity first met months ago as part of a theft in the home of Scarlett―Felicity's sole remaining friend. Felix was naturally doing the thieving and managed to nick one quick kiss off a very startled Felicity on his way out the window. Neither would be able to forget the incident. Now he is reformed (somewhat) and determined to keep the young single mother safe now that her circumstances have been so drastically reduced. And if Felix has his way, he'll also be able to convince her to give love (and him) another chance as well.
What an unexpectedly sweet story. It's quiet and thoughtful and ever so genuine. Felicity is so easy to feel for. She has had nothing but bad experiences with the men in her life, from a terrifying and damaging encounter years ago with Scarlett's dissolute husband to her own husband's omnipresent coldness and eventual blank betrayal. I didn't once question her reticence in the face of even Felix's determined charm. And he is nothing if not charming. Felix is a delight from cover to cover. Full of roguish, persistent kindness, he is the perfect person to quietly enter their lives when Felicity is at the end of a long and wearying road. And so a gentle courtship commences against the backdrop of the Runners' investigation into a series of murders around Felicity's new home, one that stretches its tentacles back into both of their pasts. The balance between mystery and relationship development was just right, and I hoped and feared equally for these eminently likable characters.
This level of gentle sweetness runs throughout the novel, and I found it (and them) utterly disarming. Felicity's children, Henry and Anne, their interactions with her mother, the intriguing crew of Bow Street Runners, and Felix's way with the whole lot of them are engaging and lively. I heartily recommend A Dangerous Proposal for your next cozy night in.
It has been a very lovely year thus far when it comes to new-to-me authors. Some years are like that, while others (I'm thinking of last year in particular) are often quieter and filled with familiar voices. Both are wonderful. But I confess to being rather thrilled that this year has held so many new authors. As part of my previously mentioned (and apparently ongoing) historical binge, I recently ran across the work of Jillian Eaton by way of her Bow Street Brides series. Side note: I find myself reading about many brides this year. Brides are positively in abundance, especially around Bow Street and Belgravia. A Dangerous Proposal is the second book in the series and my clear favorite so far. The third book just released in March and is sitting on my Kindle waiting to be started as I type this. This series involves a number of mysteries featuring interlocking characters, and I very much enjoyed that aspect of it all.
Felicity Atwood does not recognize her life. The whole of it went so suddenly and so irrevocably south that she and her two young children are still struggling to pick up the pieces. Though she remains Lady Ashworth, she is no longer married to Lord Ashworth. The divorce took care of that. Now he lives with his new wife (and former mistress), while Felicity and the children he no longer wants anything to do with are forced to get by on their own in the decidedly dodgier part of town. Enter one Mr. Felix Spencer, former jewel thief turned Bow Street Runner. Felix and Felicity first met months ago as part of a theft in the home of Scarlett―Felicity's sole remaining friend. Felix was naturally doing the thieving and managed to nick one quick kiss off a very startled Felicity on his way out the window. Neither would be able to forget the incident. Now he is reformed (somewhat) and determined to keep the young single mother safe now that her circumstances have been so drastically reduced. And if Felix has his way, he'll also be able to convince her to give love (and him) another chance as well.
What an unexpectedly sweet story. It's quiet and thoughtful and ever so genuine. Felicity is so easy to feel for. She has had nothing but bad experiences with the men in her life, from a terrifying and damaging encounter years ago with Scarlett's dissolute husband to her own husband's omnipresent coldness and eventual blank betrayal. I didn't once question her reticence in the face of even Felix's determined charm. And he is nothing if not charming. Felix is a delight from cover to cover. Full of roguish, persistent kindness, he is the perfect person to quietly enter their lives when Felicity is at the end of a long and wearying road. And so a gentle courtship commences against the backdrop of the Runners' investigation into a series of murders around Felicity's new home, one that stretches its tentacles back into both of their pasts. The balance between mystery and relationship development was just right, and I hoped and feared equally for these eminently likable characters.
"What are ye afraid of?" he murmured, the bristle on his jaw scraping against her cheek as he rested his chin on the sloping curve of her shoulder.
"I am not afraid," she said, but they both heard the lie in her voice. She began to stiffen, to draw back, but on a soft, whispering sigh she let herself relax against him. After so many months―so many years―of nothing but coldness she needed warmth. Like an untended flower that had grown too long in the shade she desperately yearned for the sun. For the heat it gave, and the comfort it brought. For no matter how deep the dark, the sun would always find a way to rise again. And when it did its light would be brighter and reach further than ever before.
"I am not afraid," she repeated as tears gathered. "I am not afraid."
"Ah, love." Felix's embrace tightened. He began to sway from side to side and she swayed with him, a dance where the only music came from the rhythmic beating of their hearts. "I know ye have no reason to trust me. No reason to believe a bloody word I say. But I want ye to know I'm not him. I won't hurt ye. I would never hurt ye."
"I know," she whispered as a single tear spilled down her cheek. "I know."
This level of gentle sweetness runs throughout the novel, and I found it (and them) utterly disarming. Felicity's children, Henry and Anne, their interactions with her mother, the intriguing crew of Bow Street Runners, and Felix's way with the whole lot of them are engaging and lively. I heartily recommend A Dangerous Proposal for your next cozy night in.
October 12, 2022
I really enjoy the unlikely romances with a thief or Bow Street Runner and someone from the Ton, be they accepted by or shunned by the Ton. Very good unlikely romance of a divorced woman with her two children tossed out by her cold Duke so he could marry his mistress. If you prefer an audiobook version, that is also available with one of the best narrators I know. I loved it. 😍 it’s really more of a 4.5 stars, but my first by the gifted author.
August 10, 2017
Wow! I devoured this book. I'm so in love with Felix. I mean come on, how swoon worthy was he? I loved him and his determination to get his girl.
from-the-author
September 8, 2017If you like intelligent heroines, rakes with a heart of gold, adorable children, and snarky Pomeranians named Mr. Darcy, you're going to love A Dangerous Proposal! A standalone romance with a happily-ever-after, it's guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
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"What - what are you doing?" Felicity asked warily when the rough pad of Felix's thumb traced the delicate line of her collarbone.
He had the hands of a working man, the skin calloused and sun kissed. As a lady she should have been repulsed, but as a woman she found herself hopelessly, helplessly intrigued.
Felix was the embodiment of everything she had been taught to avoid. But there was something tantalizingly forbidden about desiring what she shouldn't.
"Seeing if you feel as soft as I remember." His husky whisper sent ribbons of heat slithering down into her belly. Those warm golden eyes held her captive as his hand followed the natural curves of her body, fingers brushing over linen and lace before sinking into her hip and drawing her close.
She sucked in a breath when she felt his hard thigh against her own. Closed her eyes when his head lowered...
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Amazon CA
Amazon AU
"What - what are you doing?" Felicity asked warily when the rough pad of Felix's thumb traced the delicate line of her collarbone.
He had the hands of a working man, the skin calloused and sun kissed. As a lady she should have been repulsed, but as a woman she found herself hopelessly, helplessly intrigued.
Felix was the embodiment of everything she had been taught to avoid. But there was something tantalizingly forbidden about desiring what she shouldn't.
"Seeing if you feel as soft as I remember." His husky whisper sent ribbons of heat slithering down into her belly. Those warm golden eyes held her captive as his hand followed the natural curves of her body, fingers brushing over linen and lace before sinking into her hip and drawing her close.
She sucked in a breath when she felt his hard thigh against her own. Closed her eyes when his head lowered...
September 12, 2022
Really enjoyed this second edition to the Bow Street Brides series. This book goes into more detail about trials and tribulations of Felicity. My heart broke for her because she was a victim of her times. Everyone failed and abused her when she needed help. Along comes Felix Spencer, former thief and now Bow Street Runner. He becomes Felicity's unlikely hero, who falls in love with her and her two children. Felix was awesome because he wasn't a rich, entitled Lord. Would recommend this book to a friend.
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June 10, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/10/2021)! 🎁
October 27, 2021
From the first book in the series, we know that Felicity was raped by her best friend's husband, and seven years later divorced by her husband, leaving her with two small children. This story begins when Felicity and her children move into an apartment in the slums. Former thief turned Bow Street Runner, Felix checks up on her and having fallen in love, decides to court her. Felicity isn't ready for a new relationship but Felix starts a traditional courtship slowly. Walks in the park, a night at the theatre, outings with her children. Felicity changes from an always obedient and docile woman to a strong woman with a will of her own. Two mysteries are left unsolved. Grant is chasing a female jewel thief, and The Slasher, killer of Tobias Kent's wife strikes again. All narrated by the excellent Mary Sarah. Whose soothing voice brings the character alive. She does both male and female voices so well. No high pitched, childish voices for the women, and monotone for the men. I'm moving straight to the next book in the series. I'm glad I'm behind so that I can binge listen/read the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2018
Loved this story. I really got into it, although I took my time reading it (my son was visiting).
I found this book interesting and very enjoyable. Very entertaining too. 4☆
I found this book interesting and very enjoyable. Very entertaining too. 4☆
February 7, 2022
Passionate second chance at love; needs more editing
This second book in the series needs to be read after the first book in order for it to make the most sense as there are several characters and plot complications mentioned and continued from the first book.
This story has dark elements in that the protagonist is recovering from a past rape and a recent divorce. There is also a murderer on the loose who is violently killing women. For readers who might be triggered by details related to these issues, this book may not be a good choice.
The male protagonist is likable, manly, naughty, charming, and can melt stockings off his love interest. The female protagonist, while a naive pushover at first, is also a likable character who grows into a stronger person throughout the story.
There are some timeline jumps in this book. The jewel thief subplot is intriguing but doesn’t have much relevance toward the end, which is too bad. (Warning: A new jewel thief plot is tucked into the story along with other tertiary characters in an attempt to sell spin-off novels.) The ending seems rushed as the climatic scene, where the heroine gains her agency, is skipped over and summarized…but the rape scene is told in a flashback with unnecessary detail. This is out of balance and undermines the protagonist’s character arc. The love scene is also cut short…too much like real life. The murderer on the loose is a loose end at the end of this book.
The antagonist is underdeveloped, which leaves the ending on the unbelievable side. The mother character is inconsistently described—failing health and then rushing about? The children are interesting at first and then off-page for the rest of the book.
So, the flirting romantic build-up is well done, but the mystery elements and ending are not.
The author needs to learn how to use commas to separate introductory phrases from independent clauses. There are lots of punctuation, nuisance, and careless errors scattered throughout the book that detract from enjoyment of the story.
This second book in the series needs to be read after the first book in order for it to make the most sense as there are several characters and plot complications mentioned and continued from the first book.
This story has dark elements in that the protagonist is recovering from a past rape and a recent divorce. There is also a murderer on the loose who is violently killing women. For readers who might be triggered by details related to these issues, this book may not be a good choice.
The male protagonist is likable, manly, naughty, charming, and can melt stockings off his love interest. The female protagonist, while a naive pushover at first, is also a likable character who grows into a stronger person throughout the story.
There are some timeline jumps in this book. The jewel thief subplot is intriguing but doesn’t have much relevance toward the end, which is too bad. (Warning: A new jewel thief plot is tucked into the story along with other tertiary characters in an attempt to sell spin-off novels.) The ending seems rushed as the climatic scene, where the heroine gains her agency, is skipped over and summarized…but the rape scene is told in a flashback with unnecessary detail. This is out of balance and undermines the protagonist’s character arc. The love scene is also cut short…too much like real life. The murderer on the loose is a loose end at the end of this book.
The antagonist is underdeveloped, which leaves the ending on the unbelievable side. The mother character is inconsistently described—failing health and then rushing about? The children are interesting at first and then off-page for the rest of the book.
So, the flirting romantic build-up is well done, but the mystery elements and ending are not.
The author needs to learn how to use commas to separate introductory phrases from independent clauses. There are lots of punctuation, nuisance, and careless errors scattered throughout the book that detract from enjoyment of the story.
August 14, 2017
I ENJOYED THIS ONE WAY BETTER THAN THE FIRST BOOK.
THE CHEMISTRY BETWEEN FELIX AND FELICITY WAS BLOSSOMING BETWEEN THE PAGES!
OUR HERO is the kind of man I absolutely respect because he wasn't afraid to admit that he was in love with the heroine. The norm of heroes are that they would get cold feet, but Felix is a MAN in every sense of the word. A reformed thief, he's the one who does the stealing NOT the other way around. What an irony for a scorned woman to capture his heart and he can't help but be drawn to the pain in the eyes, the way she makes him want to protect and care for both her and her two children. He may have been tempted to fall in love maybe twice in his life but, with Felicity...it hit him so hard he didn't even have a chance. Felix pursues her with a vengeance, being so impossibly sweet, attentive and so terribly safe it was hard not to fall in love with him and wish him to be a real life man.
OUR HEROINE is a woman scorned, and her life literally falling to pieces after her husband divorced her. The author included a FOREWORD that elaborates a little on the tedious proceedings of a divorce back in the 1800s or so, and for the sake of the story she does a time skip past it all. Truly, I felt sorry for Felicity and wished she had met Felix earlier in life (although, their paths did cross when she was 16 but fate dictated that it wasn't their time to be together yet, apparently). Her life is really tragic....getting raped and then divorced by a husband who fell out of love with her. I was glad that Felix fell into her life just when she needed someone the most.
OVERALL this was a really sweet, romantic story because I usually avoid stories whereby the heroines have children/are non-virgin for obvious reasons and well...matured women. I kind of like my historicals a little backward. I certainly look forward to reading more from Jillian Eaton.
THE CHEMISTRY BETWEEN FELIX AND FELICITY WAS BLOSSOMING BETWEEN THE PAGES!
OUR HERO is the kind of man I absolutely respect because he wasn't afraid to admit that he was in love with the heroine. The norm of heroes are that they would get cold feet, but Felix is a MAN in every sense of the word. A reformed thief, he's the one who does the stealing NOT the other way around. What an irony for a scorned woman to capture his heart and he can't help but be drawn to the pain in the eyes, the way she makes him want to protect and care for both her and her two children. He may have been tempted to fall in love maybe twice in his life but, with Felicity...it hit him so hard he didn't even have a chance. Felix pursues her with a vengeance, being so impossibly sweet, attentive and so terribly safe it was hard not to fall in love with him and wish him to be a real life man.
OUR HEROINE is a woman scorned, and her life literally falling to pieces after her husband divorced her. The author included a FOREWORD that elaborates a little on the tedious proceedings of a divorce back in the 1800s or so, and for the sake of the story she does a time skip past it all. Truly, I felt sorry for Felicity and wished she had met Felix earlier in life (although, their paths did cross when she was 16 but fate dictated that it wasn't their time to be together yet, apparently). Her life is really tragic....getting raped and then divorced by a husband who fell out of love with her. I was glad that Felix fell into her life just when she needed someone the most.
OVERALL this was a really sweet, romantic story because I usually avoid stories whereby the heroines have children/are non-virgin for obvious reasons and well...matured women. I kind of like my historicals a little backward. I certainly look forward to reading more from Jillian Eaton.
March 19, 2018
It touched my heart!
My second book by this author. A Dangerous proposalIs the second in the series. I’m enjoying this series I love the first book and I definitely love this second book!
Felix Spencer, oh my, he was quite charming and I have to say he made me blush a couple of times too. And plus, his jokes/jabs.. haha.. Who wouldn’t want a man like him. He would do anything for Felicity. I found him early romantic and, he didn’t come as overbearing or anything. He had a quirky personality and, he took everything real slow with her. And slowly he began to break down those barriers that she had. And I loved his relationship with the children.
Felicity, as a mom of two children and a divorcee, she is trying to make ends meet while her reputation is in the gutter and she’s trying to figure out how she’s going to take care of her children on her own. The way the author wrote her you could feel her frustration and the reason why she feels like she cannot allow herself to love again. The book gives more of her backstory I don’t want to spoil that. It was amazing when she found out she does not have to be the obedient wife anymore and the only person that she should impress is herself. I admire her for her strength, and it was always fun watching her and Felix talk. Was never a boring moment with those two.
Normally, you don’t see female leads with children in historical romances. Sometimes it could be rather tricky to write children without them becoming overbearing and annoying. But, and this book the children absolutely won my heart. They were absolutely adorable and I could tell Felicity would do almost anything for her children.
The book made me want to hug my Kindle. I loved how this one was based more on emotion. It was quite fun and, have to say that I was sad to have this book end. But it was quite lovely reading about Felix and Felicity.
I am certainly going to read the third in the series!
Again I really enjoyed this book. Brava!❤️
My second book by this author. A Dangerous proposalIs the second in the series. I’m enjoying this series I love the first book and I definitely love this second book!
Felix Spencer, oh my, he was quite charming and I have to say he made me blush a couple of times too. And plus, his jokes/jabs.. haha.. Who wouldn’t want a man like him. He would do anything for Felicity. I found him early romantic and, he didn’t come as overbearing or anything. He had a quirky personality and, he took everything real slow with her. And slowly he began to break down those barriers that she had. And I loved his relationship with the children.
Felicity, as a mom of two children and a divorcee, she is trying to make ends meet while her reputation is in the gutter and she’s trying to figure out how she’s going to take care of her children on her own. The way the author wrote her you could feel her frustration and the reason why she feels like she cannot allow herself to love again. The book gives more of her backstory I don’t want to spoil that. It was amazing when she found out she does not have to be the obedient wife anymore and the only person that she should impress is herself. I admire her for her strength, and it was always fun watching her and Felix talk. Was never a boring moment with those two.
Normally, you don’t see female leads with children in historical romances. Sometimes it could be rather tricky to write children without them becoming overbearing and annoying. But, and this book the children absolutely won my heart. They were absolutely adorable and I could tell Felicity would do almost anything for her children.
The book made me want to hug my Kindle. I loved how this one was based more on emotion. It was quite fun and, have to say that I was sad to have this book end. But it was quite lovely reading about Felix and Felicity.
I am certainly going to read the third in the series!
Again I really enjoyed this book. Brava!❤️
May 4, 2018
Felicity worked hard to prepare herself for being a debutant. She was pretty but quiet and docile. Her dowry was not large but she was a kind person. Her mother hoped she would attract a peer, as all mothers do and Ezra, Lord Ashworth was much older but he was her only offer. He was titled, wealthy and demanding. Felicity was innocent and obedient. Felicity had a best friend Scarlett who also made a marriage to a wralthy, titled is who unfortunately could not keep it in his pants. One day when Scarlett was out riding Felicity visited to return a piece of jewelry. Rodger, Scarlett 's husband raped her. Felicity lay quietly looking at the ceiling hoping it would be over soon. Rodger was not impressed and said she could go but she met Scarlett on her way out and Rodger was standing on the stairs partially dressed holding Felicity 's stocking. A huge scandal took place when the children were older and her husband wanted to marry his mistress. Felicity was shunned by everyone that was supposed to be her friend. Felicity later met Felix Spencer, a reformed jewel thief who was a Bow Street Runner. Felicity was still trying to follow the rules of the ton for her two children and had vowed that she would have nothing to do with a man again. Felix was a whole new world for her. All she thought was was doing the right thing was not Felix's was of living.
January 26, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I had a busy week, or I would have read this much quicker. I loved the female heroine, as she has gone through such tragedy. A marriage to a wealthy Lord , and two beautiful children comes crashing down around her, through no fault of her own. Society is a cruel mistress, as Felicity soon learns. I also loved Felix, who was a thief in his younger days, and quite good at it, until he was caught , and trained as a Bow Street Runner. They were the Victorian era of a police detective, before actual stations, and police were formed. They were a rough bunch, but some were third or forth sons of Gentlemen of the Ton. It was honest work, and dangerous. The better you were the more reward you got paid. Felix had a nose for crime, and was one of the best. I adored his reaction to Felicity, and her two children. He was so kind, but determined to have her in. his life. I loved their back and forth banter, and how he gave her the security to get over her banishment, and scandal. He helped her grow, and blossom, and she in return gave him a reason to want a person in his life, that he didn't realize was missing . Thank you for the Epilogue. They tie the package of a book, with a nice bow. This book has a fun romance, with heartache, rape, scandal, a kidnapping, and a bit of danger. There is a sexual encounter in just the right time, and place, not overly graphic. The rape is told in memory. 4. 25 for the story. It would have been a five, if a few more characters would have been more fleshed out. They were there ,but you never really get to know them, on a deeper level. Felix was a handsome, strong rogue, with charm, and a heart stopping smile, and a heart one could trust.. Felicity was a lady, a beauty, devoted to her children, and had spent her life trying to please to many, and never speaking up, for herself, or her needs.
September 7, 2017
This is my favorite of the Bow Street Brides books that I have read and I believe one of Felicity's main underlying issues is one that many people can closely relate to and may be a trigger for some, but shows the importance of working towards healing and trust. This is not a genre that I typically read, but it is a fun, quick paced read that can easily be read start to finish over a rainy weekend. Eaton has done quite a bit of homework and writes notes to catch the reader up on things that could be a novel or two if explained over the course of a book. She is weaving a very complex web with these Bow Street Brides novels, each can easily be read as a stand alone book, but once you start reading the series you want to know more about the other characters encouraging you to read the other novels in the series. Eaton must be keeping excellent notes on the outside of these stories to keep the characters and stories straight. I liked the bit of suspense and thriller in this book, adds a great flare to keep your interest if historical romance is not your thing.
*I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
*I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
February 3, 2021
To steal a heart
Felix is an ex-thief and now Bow Street Runner! Looking for evidence against Scarlett( previous story) Felix kisses Felicity and makes off with the evidence! Felicity is now divorced and almost homeless with 2 children! Scarlett has taken her friend and children in, more from guilt for what her ex husband has done and for the sake of a renewed life long friendship!
Felix has never been hit so hard with lust and protective instincts until Felicity! Felicity is a survivor and angry with herself over her lack of inaction and letting people (men) take over her life!
After witnessing the sounds of a murder she knows she and her children can not stay at their current dwelling! Nothing in this story concludes those disturbing events! There is also nothing that says what happens to Ezra after his despicable behavior!?
These two get a HEA but the ending is unexpected! Since this story leaves questions only 4 stars!
Felix is an ex-thief and now Bow Street Runner! Looking for evidence against Scarlett( previous story) Felix kisses Felicity and makes off with the evidence! Felicity is now divorced and almost homeless with 2 children! Scarlett has taken her friend and children in, more from guilt for what her ex husband has done and for the sake of a renewed life long friendship!
Felix has never been hit so hard with lust and protective instincts until Felicity! Felicity is a survivor and angry with herself over her lack of inaction and letting people (men) take over her life!
After witnessing the sounds of a murder she knows she and her children can not stay at their current dwelling! Nothing in this story concludes those disturbing events! There is also nothing that says what happens to Ezra after his despicable behavior!?
These two get a HEA but the ending is unexpected! Since this story leaves questions only 4 stars!
November 30, 2022
Felix & Felicity
This book 📕 is about one of the Bow Street Runners an ex-jewel thief that was caught and instead of prison was recruited to work with Bow Street. The h is a beautiful petite lady that has 2 children and suffers lots of trauma during her marriage eventually getting divorced and shun by the ton. She loses everything in the divorce and is forced to rent in an unsavory criminal part of London. They meet when H is on a case for Bow Street going through her friend’s jewelry box. The h is there and she catches him but he gets away and kisses her before he leaves. They both become smitten with each other and the H nurtures her self-esteem while courting her. There is steamy romance 🔥🔥 and love in their relationship. h gets kidnapped by her ex and attempts to murder her but fails and she manages to get away. The H finds her and they marry soon after. It is an exciting action romantic book 📕 and I throughly enjoyed it. I would recommend
This book 📕 is about one of the Bow Street Runners an ex-jewel thief that was caught and instead of prison was recruited to work with Bow Street. The h is a beautiful petite lady that has 2 children and suffers lots of trauma during her marriage eventually getting divorced and shun by the ton. She loses everything in the divorce and is forced to rent in an unsavory criminal part of London. They meet when H is on a case for Bow Street going through her friend’s jewelry box. The h is there and she catches him but he gets away and kisses her before he leaves. They both become smitten with each other and the H nurtures her self-esteem while courting her. There is steamy romance 🔥🔥 and love in their relationship. h gets kidnapped by her ex and attempts to murder her but fails and she manages to get away. The H finds her and they marry soon after. It is an exciting action romantic book 📕 and I throughly enjoyed it. I would recommend
February 18, 2019
Trying
I was hoping this second novel would be a step up from book 1, but it wasn't. Pros: I liked both the heroine and the hero's characters. Acknowledgement of what rape victims generally experience. Slapping of a vicious bully/gossip. Cons: There was NO action, thrill, adversary for 7 chapters. The first 7 chapters dealt with her divorce, where to live, and the feelings and doubts of the heroine and the hero. There was a murder but there was no elaboration. There was nothing tying in the murder and the heroine being kidnapped. Not really sure if I will continue with books 3 & 4.
I was hoping this second novel would be a step up from book 1, but it wasn't. Pros: I liked both the heroine and the hero's characters. Acknowledgement of what rape victims generally experience. Slapping of a vicious bully/gossip. Cons: There was NO action, thrill, adversary for 7 chapters. The first 7 chapters dealt with her divorce, where to live, and the feelings and doubts of the heroine and the hero. There was a murder but there was no elaboration. There was nothing tying in the murder and the heroine being kidnapped. Not really sure if I will continue with books 3 & 4.
May 23, 2018
I enjoyed this for the most part. I liked the characters and story. Two things keep me from giving it a higher rating. 1) I wish there had been a little more show and less tell in the relationship. They seemed to fall in love quickly (even if they didn’t admit it out loud) and without much quality time spent together being shown. 2) The ending had me rolling my eyes a bit. I mean come on, Felix felt where Felicity was? He’s a runner, for goodness sake. He should have done some detective work.
Minor issues, and I’m looking forward to Grant’s story.
Minor issues, and I’m looking forward to Grant’s story.
November 8, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. I read it all in one night so it is definitely entertaining.
Felix and Felicity were an odd couple but I was rooting for them all the way. At first I did not think I was going to finish the book because so much of it seemed so sad-what Felicity's husband had done to them and their children but I persevered and am glad I did.
There was romance but not much sex and some violence as it related to a killer on the loose and what had happened to Felicity years earlier.
Overall a great read and I'm off to find the next book starring Grant.
Felix and Felicity were an odd couple but I was rooting for them all the way. At first I did not think I was going to finish the book because so much of it seemed so sad-what Felicity's husband had done to them and their children but I persevered and am glad I did.
There was romance but not much sex and some violence as it related to a killer on the loose and what had happened to Felicity years earlier.
Overall a great read and I'm off to find the next book starring Grant.
January 18, 2020
4.5 stars - Historical Romance
I didn't quite love this one as much as the first book in the series, A Dangerous Seduction, but it's still a great historical romance. Felix's patient pursuit and courtship of Felicity, including winning over her two adorable kids and mother, is truly heartwarming.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator, Mary Sarah, does a fabulous job with the characters and accents and really enhanced my enjoyment of the story. I'm loving this series!
I didn't quite love this one as much as the first book in the series, A Dangerous Seduction, but it's still a great historical romance. Felix's patient pursuit and courtship of Felicity, including winning over her two adorable kids and mother, is truly heartwarming.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator, Mary Sarah, does a fabulous job with the characters and accents and really enhanced my enjoyment of the story. I'm loving this series!
June 12, 2020
A great Bow-Street read. Felicity had everything beauty, home, children and a husband until he filed for divorce and accused her or adultery . She was raped by her husbands best friend and her son Henry was the product of that encounter.
Felix Spencer was a jewel thief until he was caught by Owen and was given a choice, go to New-Gate or become a Bow-Street Runner. He chose the Runner.
When they meet again Felix will do everything he can to win her heart. A wonderful story with a great ending.
Felix Spencer was a jewel thief until he was caught by Owen and was given a choice, go to New-Gate or become a Bow-Street Runner. He chose the Runner.
When they meet again Felix will do everything he can to win her heart. A wonderful story with a great ending.
April 7, 2021
Good, but needed a better epilogue
I really liked this story line as well as the main characters Felix and Felicity. However, I wanted a more far reaching epilogue. One at least a couple years into the future, one where they now had a baby together. Also letting us in on Ezra’s outcome. So, I am making a request: How about giving us an extended epilogue? I am going to now start the next book in the series, perhaps there is a little more glimpse into the life of Felix and Felicity as well?! Fingers crossed 🤞🏻that there is.
I really liked this story line as well as the main characters Felix and Felicity. However, I wanted a more far reaching epilogue. One at least a couple years into the future, one where they now had a baby together. Also letting us in on Ezra’s outcome. So, I am making a request: How about giving us an extended epilogue? I am going to now start the next book in the series, perhaps there is a little more glimpse into the life of Felix and Felicity as well?! Fingers crossed 🤞🏻that there is.
December 20, 2022
Felicity is left to fend for herself after her husband divorces her & disowning her children. She ends up meeting Felix again, who is someone with a rather interesting background. Felix decides to court her, & she has trouble believing his intentions are true. Her past experiences with her ex-husband, along with a bad experience with another man, caused her to be very reticent in believing that Felix could be not only true to his word, but nice & respectful - loving, really - toward her.
There are scandals, there’s drama, murder & romance. It’s a little bit of everything.
There are scandals, there’s drama, murder & romance. It’s a little bit of everything.
July 23, 2023
A quick, light read. A fun read for a cozy afternoon or while on vacation.
A former jewel thief, Felix, turned Bow Street Runner, falls for a disgraced society lady. The former thief is a charmer and the society lady is feisty and determined. Felicity is a Single Mom, having been divorced by her straight-laced husband and thrown out onto the street with their 2 children. The kids are adorable and rather mischievous.
This is book 2 in the series and we see Owen and Scarlett from book 1. It’s not necessary to have read book 1 but it’s also a good book.
A former jewel thief, Felix, turned Bow Street Runner, falls for a disgraced society lady. The former thief is a charmer and the society lady is feisty and determined. Felicity is a Single Mom, having been divorced by her straight-laced husband and thrown out onto the street with their 2 children. The kids are adorable and rather mischievous.
This is book 2 in the series and we see Owen and Scarlett from book 1. It’s not necessary to have read book 1 but it’s also a good book.
June 11, 2021
This is a regency romance that involves a woman who has been divorced by her husband which means she has acquired a negative reputation among her society. She becomes involved with a Bow Runner who finds himself falling in love with her. There were parts of the story that didn't have closure; and, since the novel is part of a series, it may be that those conflicts will be addressed in the books that follow. There were some humorous incidents to keep the story lively.
June 19, 2021
Danger is over
Their acquaintance started 8 years ago. She was not aware how close she came to have learned true happiness if he only introduces himself then. Eight years later, she was a divorcee, 2 disowned children, no money, publicly humilliated. He was a reformed thief, a rogue, a runner. Time and perseverance broke all barriers between them and allowed love to flourish. What is there not to love about this story? I want more!
Their acquaintance started 8 years ago. She was not aware how close she came to have learned true happiness if he only introduces himself then. Eight years later, she was a divorcee, 2 disowned children, no money, publicly humilliated. He was a reformed thief, a rogue, a runner. Time and perseverance broke all barriers between them and allowed love to flourish. What is there not to love about this story? I want more!
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