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Lords of Essex #3
My Hellion, My Heart
He fought battles for crown and country. She waged war for his heart.
Lord Henry Radcliffe, the scarred but sinfully sexy Earl of Langlevit, is a beast. The only way Henry can exorcise the demons of his war-ravaged past is through intense physicality. In and out of bed. An endeavor that has no shortage of willing participants.
Intent on scandalizing London, Princess Irina Volkonsky is a hellion and every gentleman’s deepest desire...except for one. Irina knows better than to provoke the wickedly forbidding earl, but she will stop at nothing short of ruination to win the heart of the only man she’s ever loved.
But when one scandalous kiss makes dangerous passions ignite, neither of them can fight their sizzling attraction. When a sinister plot emerges to threaten them both, they will have to fight one last battle, this time for the ultimate prize...love.
Lord Henry Radcliffe, the scarred but sinfully sexy Earl of Langlevit, is a beast. The only way Henry can exorcise the demons of his war-ravaged past is through intense physicality. In and out of bed. An endeavor that has no shortage of willing participants.
Intent on scandalizing London, Princess Irina Volkonsky is a hellion and every gentleman’s deepest desire...except for one. Irina knows better than to provoke the wickedly forbidding earl, but she will stop at nothing short of ruination to win the heart of the only man she’s ever loved.
But when one scandalous kiss makes dangerous passions ignite, neither of them can fight their sizzling attraction. When a sinister plot emerges to threaten them both, they will have to fight one last battle, this time for the ultimate prize...love.
421 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2017
75 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
Amalie Howard
46 books3,273 followersAMALIE HOWARD is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author, most notably of The Beast of Beswick, “a smart, sexy, deliciously feminist romance,” and one of O-The Oprah Magazine’s Top 24 Best Historicals to Read. She is the co-author of the #1 bestsellers in regency romance and Scottish historical romance, My Rogue, My Ruin and What A Scot Wants, and has also penned several young adult novels, critically acclaimed by Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, VOYA, School Library Journal, and Booklist, including Waterfell, The Almost Girl, and Alpha Goddess, a Kid’s INDIE NEXT selection. Of Indo-Caribbean descent, she has written articles on multicultural fiction for The Portland Book Review and Ravishly magazine. She currently resides in Colorado with her husband and three children. Visit her at amaliehoward.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 9, 2025
Português
Eu antecipava com entusiasmo a história deste casal e, para minha surpresa, acabou por exceder as expetativas. A narrativa envolvente, os detalhes históricos e a química entre os protagonistas tornaram a leitura deliciosa do início ao fim. Recomendo vivamente a quem aprecia histórias românticas com um toque clássico e reconfortante.
English
I was eagerly anticipating this couple’s story, and to my surprise, it exceeded all expectations. The engaging narrative, rich historical details, and the chemistry between the protagonists made this a delightful read from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys romantic stories with a classic and comforting touch.
Eu antecipava com entusiasmo a história deste casal e, para minha surpresa, acabou por exceder as expetativas. A narrativa envolvente, os detalhes históricos e a química entre os protagonistas tornaram a leitura deliciosa do início ao fim. Recomendo vivamente a quem aprecia histórias românticas com um toque clássico e reconfortante.
English
I was eagerly anticipating this couple’s story, and to my surprise, it exceeded all expectations. The engaging narrative, rich historical details, and the chemistry between the protagonists made this a delightful read from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys romantic stories with a classic and comforting touch.
July 24, 2017
This is the third book in Howard and Morgan's "Lords of Essex" series. I read and reviewed the first book "My Rogue, My Ruin" and really enjoyed it, but I liked this one even better. Don't worry: you don't need to have read the previous books in the series to enjoy this one.
The Story-
Princess Irina is in her third season, and is expected to make a match, but none of her suitors can match up to the man who has always been lurking in the back of her mind, her former guardian Henry. Henry is a different man since the war; he sees himself as unfit for anyone, but he is continually drawn to the one woman he has always considered off limits.
My Thoughts-
I loved Irina in particular. This heroine can keep up with men in all areas, protects herself, and has the wit to match. She is a whisky-drinking, knife-toting, sassy gal, and I wanted to be her friend. Henry, while playing the part of handsome, brooding guy, was sexy and swoon-worthy, but I felt he was somewhat too closed up for too long. Not sure I'd have waited for him if I was Irina. The only other niggle I had was who turned out to be the bad guy. I won't say more because it would be a spoiler, but I was disappointed. That being said, I loved the plot and characters, and found it cohesive and compelling.
The Bottom Line-
This is an improvement upon an already wonderful series with refreshingly different Regency characters, especially the heroine. I am looking forward to what comes next from Howard and Morgan, and will happily read whatever they write. 4 1/2 stars!
The Story-
Princess Irina is in her third season, and is expected to make a match, but none of her suitors can match up to the man who has always been lurking in the back of her mind, her former guardian Henry. Henry is a different man since the war; he sees himself as unfit for anyone, but he is continually drawn to the one woman he has always considered off limits.
My Thoughts-
I loved Irina in particular. This heroine can keep up with men in all areas, protects herself, and has the wit to match. She is a whisky-drinking, knife-toting, sassy gal, and I wanted to be her friend. Henry, while playing the part of handsome, brooding guy, was sexy and swoon-worthy, but I felt he was somewhat too closed up for too long. Not sure I'd have waited for him if I was Irina. The only other niggle I had was who turned out to be the bad guy. I won't say more because it would be a spoiler, but I was disappointed. That being said, I loved the plot and characters, and found it cohesive and compelling.
The Bottom Line-
This is an improvement upon an already wonderful series with refreshingly different Regency characters, especially the heroine. I am looking forward to what comes next from Howard and Morgan, and will happily read whatever they write. 4 1/2 stars!
December 20, 2018
My Hellion, My Heart was a delightful romance between a wonderfully wicked Earl and the Russian princess who captures his heart.
Lord Henry Radcliffe, Earl of Langlevit, has scars inside and out from his time in the war against France. The only way he knows to keep his demons at bay is to physically exert himself, in and out of the bedroom. When Henry unexpectedly encounters Princess Irina Volkonsky after a number of years, he’s surprised by his sudden attraction to his mother’s former ward. Irina, in her third season, has no interest in the men of English society with the exception of the one she’s loved since she was fourteen, Lord Henry. Henry however is determined to stay away from Irina until an unexpected kiss brings them together.
Due to events from her youth, Irina dislikes enclosed spaces and prefers to ride on horseback rather than in the confines of a carriage. She has also trained in all types of weapons to avoid feeling weak or defenseless. Irina has spent the previous seasons turning down a number of unwanted proposals which earned her the nickname of the Ice Princess. For Irina, the men proposing simply do not measure up to her memory of Henry whom she can’t help but compare them to. While she dreams of one day having a family, she resents being told that she should be married by now and should stop being so picky.
After his captivity in France during the war, Henry suffers from anxiety when surrounded by people and has nightmares about his time there. As a result, Henry considers himself to be damaged goods and incapable of loving anyone. As a way to distract himself, Henry engages a number of women in physical relationships. He also runs an obstacle course he built at his country estate which is where he prefers to spend most of his time. Due to a rule attached to the Langlevit title, Henry must marry by the end of his 30th year if he wishes to retain his title and its estates which goes into effect at the start of the book when Henry turns 30.
Irina and Henry have a lot of starts and stops to their relationship, mostly due to Henry attempting to deny his attraction to her which definitely led to an increase in sexual tension between them. They have amazing chemistry and and sparks fly every time these two come into contact. There are several times where their attraction gets the better of Henry leading to some very sexy scenes. When Irina and Henry finally do give in fully the scenes are quite steamy and very enjoyable. There is a bit of an age difference, Irina is 19 and Henry is 30, but that’s not something that bothers me personally. Minor spoiler ahead for the only thing I disliked pertaining to their relationship.
Throughout the book there are several scenes with the couples from the first two books in this series. While My Hellion, My Heart works well as a standalone book, fans of the series will enjoy the glimpses of the previous main characters. I liked that Irina and Lana, her sister and the heroine of book 2, are still quite close as I enjoyed their relationship. Personally while I wasn’t surprised at who the villain was in this book, I think the authors did a good job with his backstory and motivations.
My Hellion, My Heart was a great installment in the Lords of Essex series and a very sexy, enjoyable historical romance. I look forward to reading more books from these authors in the future.
**I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Lord Henry Radcliffe, Earl of Langlevit, has scars inside and out from his time in the war against France. The only way he knows to keep his demons at bay is to physically exert himself, in and out of the bedroom. When Henry unexpectedly encounters Princess Irina Volkonsky after a number of years, he’s surprised by his sudden attraction to his mother’s former ward. Irina, in her third season, has no interest in the men of English society with the exception of the one she’s loved since she was fourteen, Lord Henry. Henry however is determined to stay away from Irina until an unexpected kiss brings them together.
Due to events from her youth, Irina dislikes enclosed spaces and prefers to ride on horseback rather than in the confines of a carriage. She has also trained in all types of weapons to avoid feeling weak or defenseless. Irina has spent the previous seasons turning down a number of unwanted proposals which earned her the nickname of the Ice Princess. For Irina, the men proposing simply do not measure up to her memory of Henry whom she can’t help but compare them to. While she dreams of one day having a family, she resents being told that she should be married by now and should stop being so picky.
After his captivity in France during the war, Henry suffers from anxiety when surrounded by people and has nightmares about his time there. As a result, Henry considers himself to be damaged goods and incapable of loving anyone. As a way to distract himself, Henry engages a number of women in physical relationships. He also runs an obstacle course he built at his country estate which is where he prefers to spend most of his time. Due to a rule attached to the Langlevit title, Henry must marry by the end of his 30th year if he wishes to retain his title and its estates which goes into effect at the start of the book when Henry turns 30.
Irina and Henry have a lot of starts and stops to their relationship, mostly due to Henry attempting to deny his attraction to her which definitely led to an increase in sexual tension between them. They have amazing chemistry and and sparks fly every time these two come into contact. There are several times where their attraction gets the better of Henry leading to some very sexy scenes. When Irina and Henry finally do give in fully the scenes are quite steamy and very enjoyable. There is a bit of an age difference, Irina is 19 and Henry is 30, but that’s not something that bothers me personally. Minor spoiler ahead for the only thing I disliked pertaining to their relationship.
Throughout the book there are several scenes with the couples from the first two books in this series. While My Hellion, My Heart works well as a standalone book, fans of the series will enjoy the glimpses of the previous main characters. I liked that Irina and Lana, her sister and the heroine of book 2, are still quite close as I enjoyed their relationship. Personally while I wasn’t surprised at who the villain was in this book, I think the authors did a good job with his backstory and motivations.
My Hellion, My Heart was a great installment in the Lords of Essex series and a very sexy, enjoyable historical romance. I look forward to reading more books from these authors in the future.
**I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
July 23, 2017
'My Hellion, My Heart' by Amalie Howard, Angie Morgan is Book Three in the "Lords of Essex" series. This is the story of Lord Henry Radcliffe and Princess Irina Volkonsky. I have read the other stories (and loved them!) but I feel this can easily be a standalone book.
Irina has been in love with Henry since she was a young girl around the age of 14. But Henry only saw her as a young girl and his mother's ward. Even when she had her coming out he didn't seem to take notice of her. Now she is coming back to London after being away for awhile. Max her best friend has set up a wager on who will win her hand in Marriage. Max did tell Irina of his plan to do the wager and Irina thought it might be a way to bring out Henry to acknowledge her.
Henry has been fighting his past when he was help captive that caused him scars inside and out. Dealing with his inside pain with outside pain via the bedroom and elsewhere. When he first sees Irina again at her coming out he at first doesn't recognizes her and approaches her. When he does recognizes her he tries to brush her off and hurry away. Not wanting her to know the intense desire he felt for her. Now she is back, and his mother is making demands that he move forward and marry. But he can only think of Irina but he doesn't want to hurt her.
Henry did go back and forth with his feelings with treating Irina but overall I understood he was fighting demons inside himself. Irina was a good strong heroine that I enjoyed watching her story play out.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Irina has been in love with Henry since she was a young girl around the age of 14. But Henry only saw her as a young girl and his mother's ward. Even when she had her coming out he didn't seem to take notice of her. Now she is coming back to London after being away for awhile. Max her best friend has set up a wager on who will win her hand in Marriage. Max did tell Irina of his plan to do the wager and Irina thought it might be a way to bring out Henry to acknowledge her.
Henry has been fighting his past when he was help captive that caused him scars inside and out. Dealing with his inside pain with outside pain via the bedroom and elsewhere. When he first sees Irina again at her coming out he at first doesn't recognizes her and approaches her. When he does recognizes her he tries to brush her off and hurry away. Not wanting her to know the intense desire he felt for her. Now she is back, and his mother is making demands that he move forward and marry. But he can only think of Irina but he doesn't want to hurt her.
Henry did go back and forth with his feelings with treating Irina but overall I understood he was fighting demons inside himself. Irina was a good strong heroine that I enjoyed watching her story play out.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
January 14, 2020
Not easy, I quite liked the first two novels of the Series but this one was a disappointment. I am not a prude but a hero who is fighting a boner practically any time he sees the heroine (or any other woman in his range for that matter) is a real nuisance. From the beginning Henry has very strange difficulties to keep is cock in his trousers and gropes princess Irina any time he is in her vicinity (while sporting a mistress and several prostitutes besides, mind you). Of course he only wants "the best" for Irina, which obviously isn't himself (not good enough). Funnily, pleasuring her with heavy petting in a public exhibition without any intention of marrying her afterwards is definitely in the realm of what's "best" for her. And because he is so dangerous and flawed, he plans to ditch Irina, marry his best friend and cheat on his convenient wive at the very first opportunity (well, at least he plans to do it descretely). Nope, the whole shebang was rather far fetched and annoyingly unrealistic, with a whole bunch of characters acting completely idiotic.
Hint on russian naming: Irinas real name would be Irina Grigorievna Volkonskaja
Hint on russian naming: Irinas real name would be Irina Grigorievna Volkonskaja
July 23, 2017
Book Review For: My Hellion, My Heart Amalie Howard, Angie Morgan 'My Hellion, My Heart' by Amalie Howard, Angie Morgan is Book Three in the "Lords of Essex" series. This is the story of Lord Henry Radcliffe and Princess Irina Volkonsky. I have read the other stories (and loved them!) but I feel this can easily be a standalone book. Irina has been in love with Henry since she was a young girl around the age of 14. But Henry only saw her as a young girl and his mother's ward. Even when she had her coming out he didn't seem to take notice of her. Now she is coming back to London after being away for awhile. Max her best friend has set up a wager on who will win her hand in Marriage. Max did tell Irina of his plan to do the wager and Irina thought it might be a way to bring out Henry to acknowledge her. Henry has been fighting his past when he was help captive that caused him scars inside and out. Dealing with his inside pain with outside pain via the bedroom and elsewhere. When he first sees Irina again at her coming out he at first doesn't recognizes her and approaches her. When he does recognizes her he tries to brush her off and hurry away. Not wanting her to know the intense desire he felt for her. Now she is back, and his mother is making demands that he move forward and marry. But he can only think of Irina but he doesn't want to hurt her. Henry did go back and forth with his feelings with treating Irina but overall I understood he was fighting demons inside himself. Irina was a good strong heroine that I enjoyed watching her story play out. "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H... https://twitter.com/soapsrus68 https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR... http://booklikes.com/bloghttps://roma... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
February 2, 2023
Amalie Howard is a fairly new author for me. I just started reading her in 2021. Book 1 of this series was just okay for me but it was also the first book I read by either author. I did go on to read other books by Amalie Howard and have read 6 others since. I loved her Regency Rogues/Everleigh Sisters series. Wasn't a fan of Daring Dukes. So curious to see how this was going to go.
I actually had forgot about Book 1 of this series but while researching other books on Amazon, saw more books from this series and decided to try them. I don’t read book synopsis’ anymore so had no idea what this book was going to be about but having read book 2, I figured this story would be about Lana’s sister and I loved Book 2 so really looking forward to this one.
I LOVED Henry and Irina. I loved their story and their characters. I loved their personalities. Because Book 2 was so good, I loved the intrigue and suspense of the sisters story. Overall a really great read. Actually, I couldn’t put this one down either. Sad that the next one is the last one. I would love to give it more than 5 stars.
I actually had forgot about Book 1 of this series but while researching other books on Amazon, saw more books from this series and decided to try them. I don’t read book synopsis’ anymore so had no idea what this book was going to be about but having read book 2, I figured this story would be about Lana’s sister and I loved Book 2 so really looking forward to this one.
I LOVED Henry and Irina. I loved their story and their characters. I loved their personalities. Because Book 2 was so good, I loved the intrigue and suspense of the sisters story. Overall a really great read. Actually, I couldn’t put this one down either. Sad that the next one is the last one. I would love to give it more than 5 stars.
July 24, 2017
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book.**
The younger princess catches her man!
Irina is a Russian princess who currently resides in England after escaping the dangers in her home country. She is no longer the young girl that she was when she became a lady's ward. But adulthood isn't as freeing as Irina hoped it would be. As a woman, she is expected to follow society's rules and find a man to marry. It's too bad that the one man she wants is the one who never even looks her way.
Henry has looked Irina's way a time or two, even though he pretends not to see her. She isn't the girl he used to know. She's a grown woman with all of the charm and beauty to go with it. Just because he doesn't fawn over her like most men doesn't mean he can't see how tempting she is. It's too bad that he isn't looking for a wife--even though he's being forced to find one.
While Irina tries to find a way to catch Henry's eye, he does his best to avoid her. He's not the same person he was before war left him scarred and damaged. And despite his requirement to marry, he knows it won't be a love match and so he's made his peace with it. But Irina continues to haunt his days and nights until he can no longer deny how much he wants her. Unfortunately, he isn't the only man who plans to make Irina his wife...
This is the third book of the series but the second I've read. I haven't gotten to the first book yet. In this story, we have the second princess attempting to find her match after her sister did in the previous installment. We did get a few glimpses of the first princess in this book, as well. And I was curious to see how this sister would find her way in an English society when she was raised in a fairly different one.
Irina didn't disappoint me, for the most part. She was clever and brave enough to go after what she wanted. I can appreciate a strong heroine with a smart mouth and a way with weapons. She wasn't some damsel in distress, waiting for a man to rescue her. Although, I didn't think that her plan with Max was a good idea, simply because I've seen how dangerous the betting books can be in other stories. Competition tends to bring out the worst in people, especially men.
For me, Henry was just an okay character. I liked him in the beginning with his rough demeanor. I even mostly looked past his trysts with his mistress that happened throughout the book. I know some readers won't enjoy a hero who is intimate with someone other than the heroine. Usually, I agree, yet I saw how he used the woman as almost a sort of therapy. But when he became entangled with a third woman, I started to seriously wonder if he was worthy of our princess. And after a while, his brooding did start to get on my nerves.
The romance was actually pretty nice considering it was sparse. I could feel the tug of war going on between our couple. The tension continued to build while Henry pushed Irina away and she tried another tactic to get his attention. When the fireworks finally did go off, it was a good show. I just hate that it happened so late in the book which limited the number of times we got to see our couple in naughty action.
My problem with the second book of this series was how long it was. The writing was incredibly wordy and thoughts kept repeating. For this book, I had the same issue. It's over 400 pages long and really doesn't need to be. I can't understand the need for dragging out a book 100 pages longer than necessary, mostly filled with the same things happening time and again. Irina tries to get Henry's attention while Henry denies her and his feelings. We only need to see that a few times, not over and over. It gets tedious to read the same thoughts and see the same hot-and-cold actions. I did a bit of light skimming but still enjoyed this, overall.
In closing...
Despite the length of these books, I am left with a positive feeling after finishing them. Four suns!
Full review on blog: https://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2017/07/review-my-hellion-my-heart-by-amalie.html
December 23, 2018
Lord Henry Radcliffe, the scarred but sinfully sexy Earl of Langlevit, is a beast. The only way Henry can exorcise the demons of his war-ravaged past is through intense physicality. In and out of bed. An endeavor that has no shortage of willing participants. Intent on scandalizing London, Princess Irina Volkonsky is a hellion and every gentleman’s deepest desire...except for one. Irina knows better than to provoke the wickedly forbidding earl, but she will stop at nothing short of ruination to win the heart of the the one man she cannot stop thinking about. But when one scandalous kiss makes dangerous passions ignite, neither of them can fight their sizzling attraction. When a sinister plot emerges to threaten them both, they will have to fight one last battle, this time for the ultimate prize...love.
This book sounded like it was right up my alley. Unfortunately, I don’t like books with when either of the main characters has sex with others (just like another pet peeve is promiscuity). I get that Henry had his reasons, but it ruined the book for me.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
This book sounded like it was right up my alley. Unfortunately, I don’t like books with when either of the main characters has sex with others (just like another pet peeve is promiscuity). I get that Henry had his reasons, but it ruined the book for me.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
July 9, 2017
Princess Irina Volkonsky, is given the name of Ice Princess, to name just one of several. She has been offered for at least seven times this season and more if you count last season as well. But none have excited her, enough to say yes. Earl of Langlevit was once a spy for the crown in France. He felt he was a broken man and deserved nothing.
The descriptions are vivid and lush. They help bring the story depth. The characters are varied, realistic and full bodied. The plot is amazing and has twists that will surprise you. It is concise, cohesive, moves smoothly and answers all your questions. I loved it, The authors have done a wonderful job. I can't wait to read another book of theirs, thank you. I received this book from Net Galley for a review.
The descriptions are vivid and lush. They help bring the story depth. The characters are varied, realistic and full bodied. The plot is amazing and has twists that will surprise you. It is concise, cohesive, moves smoothly and answers all your questions. I loved it, The authors have done a wonderful job. I can't wait to read another book of theirs, thank you. I received this book from Net Galley for a review.
July 1, 2023
Thank you for the egalley to read and review.
Love me some Amalie Howard. She never disappoints with her romance (her teen stuff is great, too).
Another dive into this world with different characters. No, you don't have to read the others to read this. Love that!
Fun in the regency times and an even better story than the others.
Looking forward to reading more of Amalie's writing.
Love me some Amalie Howard. She never disappoints with her romance (her teen stuff is great, too).
Another dive into this world with different characters. No, you don't have to read the others to read this. Love that!
Fun in the regency times and an even better story than the others.
Looking forward to reading more of Amalie's writing.
November 20, 2023
I've rounded this up a star because Amalie Howard wrote the perfection that is the Beast of Beswick so, for me, can do no wrong.
Foolhardy, frigid (not really) princess loves cantankerous, unlovable earl. Adventures ensue as well as lots of kissing and some groping until eventually these people find their happily ever after. Always my favorite part of any book.
Foolhardy, frigid (not really) princess loves cantankerous, unlovable earl. Adventures ensue as well as lots of kissing and some groping until eventually these people find their happily ever after. Always my favorite part of any book.
July 28, 2017
I'm what I'd call a recent convert of the historical romance genre, so I'm by no means an expert but I've so thoroughly adored this entire series!
I really loved the previous books in the series, and I thought that the previous book, My Darling, My Disaster, all about North and Lana would be my favourite because I adored both characters since they were first introduced, BUT I was wrong! From the moment I started this one, Irina and Henry became my absolute favourites!
We met Irina as Lana's spirited little sister and when we meet her at the beginning of the book a few years have passed, but she's lost none of her spirit! As a princess she's a darling of society but also considered a bit of a hellion. She's been avoiding London and its season but finally returns after being nudged there by her friend, to both be closer to her sister and secretly to see again her first love.
I simply loved the interactions between Irina and Henry, there was so much chemistry from the very first moment! I had been a bit concerned about the age difference and how it would play in their relationship, but I soon realized it was handled great, without adding creepiness to the initial interactions between them in the previous book.
Henry has gone through so much since the previous book... When we met him, he was in the service of the Crown and on dangerous missions, but now he's trying and somewhat failing to return to normal life and Society. He's clearly suffering from PTSD after having survived very dangerous missions and having been captured and tortured as a spy & prisioner of war. He also feels rather guilty about his intense attraction to Irina, since she had been his ward as a young girl.
I love how Irina decided to own her fears and fight them and not let Society dictate her actions, because as a princess she has so many eyes on her but she also has a freedom that not many people enjoyed. She decided that she would not fight her love and attraction to Henry, even if she felt it made vulnerable, and once she saw it was not entirely one-sided, she decided to fight and get Henry to accept it and stop fighting the attraction.
Amalie and Angie did an amazing job to show the vulnerabilities and strenghts of both characters and how they could understand and help each other, and not just their amazing chemistry (have I mention that the attraction and sexual chemistry was so well done and off the charts? because oh boy, it so was!).
There's a thread of mystery and intrigue all along the book but it explodes towards the end, with betrayal and danger in a way that I wasn't expecting and that added that "dammit, not that everything seemed to finally be going well!" sort of feeling and I'm so very happy with how it was resolved!
All in all, an amazing book that I've loved! I really hope that Amalie and Angie will co-write many more historical romance books because I will be devouring them all!! 4.5 to 5 stars for sure!
I really loved the previous books in the series, and I thought that the previous book, My Darling, My Disaster, all about North and Lana would be my favourite because I adored both characters since they were first introduced, BUT I was wrong! From the moment I started this one, Irina and Henry became my absolute favourites!
We met Irina as Lana's spirited little sister and when we meet her at the beginning of the book a few years have passed, but she's lost none of her spirit! As a princess she's a darling of society but also considered a bit of a hellion. She's been avoiding London and its season but finally returns after being nudged there by her friend, to both be closer to her sister and secretly to see again her first love.
I simply loved the interactions between Irina and Henry, there was so much chemistry from the very first moment! I had been a bit concerned about the age difference and how it would play in their relationship, but I soon realized it was handled great, without adding creepiness to the initial interactions between them in the previous book.
Henry has gone through so much since the previous book... When we met him, he was in the service of the Crown and on dangerous missions, but now he's trying and somewhat failing to return to normal life and Society. He's clearly suffering from PTSD after having survived very dangerous missions and having been captured and tortured as a spy & prisioner of war. He also feels rather guilty about his intense attraction to Irina, since she had been his ward as a young girl.
I love how Irina decided to own her fears and fight them and not let Society dictate her actions, because as a princess she has so many eyes on her but she also has a freedom that not many people enjoyed. She decided that she would not fight her love and attraction to Henry, even if she felt it made vulnerable, and once she saw it was not entirely one-sided, she decided to fight and get Henry to accept it and stop fighting the attraction.
Amalie and Angie did an amazing job to show the vulnerabilities and strenghts of both characters and how they could understand and help each other, and not just their amazing chemistry (have I mention that the attraction and sexual chemistry was so well done and off the charts? because oh boy, it so was!).
There's a thread of mystery and intrigue all along the book but it explodes towards the end, with betrayal and danger in a way that I wasn't expecting and that added that "dammit, not that everything seemed to finally be going well!" sort of feeling and I'm so very happy with how it was resolved!
All in all, an amazing book that I've loved! I really hope that Amalie and Angie will co-write many more historical romance books because I will be devouring them all!! 4.5 to 5 stars for sure!
October 2, 2022
Stopped at chapter 13. Boring boring boring. I’ve read two books in this series and the writing is just not for me. Couldn’t feel the Chemistry between Irina and Henry.
July 18, 2017
Phenomenal story!
Henry the Earl of Langlevit is a broken man he's seen and done things he can't forget or escape from, his only release is through sexual liaisons and physical exertion. His past as an agent for the Crown marks him as unworthy for love definitely not marriageable.
The only woman who has come close to changing his mind is Princess Irina Volkonsky. Her bubbly personality and sensuality has him constantly aroused.....but she's off limits!
Princess Irina Volkonsky is bored with everything about the ton with balls and frivolous things she yearns for something more. Years now she's been in love with only one man -Henry the Earl of Langlevit , she longs for him to see her as a grown woman, not the little girl he rescued a long time ago.
Everything changes for both Henry and Irina with one very passionate unforgettable kiss and a game of seduction ensues the stakes are high and everything they hold dear will be gambled. The ultimate prize-LOVE!!!
This was a sensational story I ADORED IT!!! It has everything you want in a romance , intrigue, mystery a friend turned villain an abduction and plenty of steam to warrant a fan! Will definitely be looking forward to more books from these very talented authors.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher for my honest unbiased opinion.
Henry the Earl of Langlevit is a broken man he's seen and done things he can't forget or escape from, his only release is through sexual liaisons and physical exertion. His past as an agent for the Crown marks him as unworthy for love definitely not marriageable.
The only woman who has come close to changing his mind is Princess Irina Volkonsky. Her bubbly personality and sensuality has him constantly aroused.....but she's off limits!
Princess Irina Volkonsky is bored with everything about the ton with balls and frivolous things she yearns for something more. Years now she's been in love with only one man -Henry the Earl of Langlevit , she longs for him to see her as a grown woman, not the little girl he rescued a long time ago.
Everything changes for both Henry and Irina with one very passionate unforgettable kiss and a game of seduction ensues the stakes are high and everything they hold dear will be gambled. The ultimate prize-LOVE!!!
This was a sensational story I ADORED IT!!! It has everything you want in a romance , intrigue, mystery a friend turned villain an abduction and plenty of steam to warrant a fan! Will definitely be looking forward to more books from these very talented authors.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher for my honest unbiased opinion.
July 26, 2017
MY HELLION, MY HEART (A LORDS OF ESSEX NOVEL) BY AMALIE HOWARD AND ANGIE MORGAN
• What the Heart Desires
What a story! It has everything an earl and a Princess could ask for..... Plus s little menace of course. I enjoyed reading this story, made you keep thinking about what could possibly happen next. Due to sexual content this novel is recommended for readers 18 and older! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours through NetGalley for an honest blog tour review.
• What the Heart Desires
What a story! It has everything an earl and a Princess could ask for..... Plus s little menace of course. I enjoyed reading this story, made you keep thinking about what could possibly happen next. Due to sexual content this novel is recommended for readers 18 and older! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours through NetGalley for an honest blog tour review.
July 24, 2017
I really enjoyed this read.
August 19, 2017
THIS STORY HAD IT ALL - ATTRACTION, TENSION, CHEMISTRY & A HINT OF DANGER!
I can't even begin to explain to you what a page turner this was. I am not a fan of insta-love that borders on the 'unrealistic' side. That just makes a boring story to read. This one had the right amount of push-pull, the ANGST was good and it certainly kept me on my toes the entire way to read WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. It's like a virtual chess of love, who's going to make the next move, and who's going to win?
OUR HERO is a tortured man still haunted by the demons that plagues him ever since his 8 month long imprisonment by the French. He certainly didn't come out unscathed, and I'm no meanie but heroes like this make the most intriguing characters to read about. Because THEY ARE NOT EASY, and that challenge itself makes them irresistible. That one time he met the Princess, their attraction was instant but not the cheap kind. This one was visceral, hot, intense and real. But, she was his mother's ward so he automatically crosses her off his list. I believe that he already started loving her ever since because if he didn't, he wouldn't have rejected her suit so VEHEMENTLY and chose another docile woman to wed. THAT IN ITSELF SPEAKS VOLUME ABOUT HIS FEELINGS. His reason borders on the usual excuses given by tortured heroes - that he will hurt the woman they love caused by their PTSD reactions, especially in sleep. I like Henry's character, because he's the strong, dependable and masculine sort that just pulls you into his sphere. A man's man. It was enjoyable to watch him dance around Irina's tune, knowing full well that he can't resist her. The angst between them, was absolutely delicious and I am a connoisseur of that exact feeling. It's the one I feed on when I read stories by my favorite authors.
OUR HEROINE is a delightful woman - one who speaks her mind and goes for what she wants. All her life, ever since rescued from being kidnapped by her uncle's men, she was grateful to Henry and also, she can't help but fall for him. Three seasons later, she's still unwed. The reason? There is no one who measures up to Henry. He has ruined her for all others, thus earning her the title of Ice Princess and London's gaming halls are putting all their bets on winning the lady's favors - IN ALL MANNERS. Of course, this incensed Henry to no end. Irina has a partner in crime, her cousin twice removed from Russia, Max. Max's character was pretty appalling, judging by how he doesn't discriminate his sexual favors, woman, men, young or old as long as he gets money from them. Despite telling herself repeatedly that this will be the last time, with just a touch from Henry, all thoughts fly out the window and she's back to square one. How on Earth will she convince this stubborn man that they belong together? That she understands the horrors that he has faced as a victim herself?
OVERALL this was an entertaining story that didn't bore me halfway. I read it till the end, enjoying the drawn out angst and sexual tension between the characters, seeing their relationship blossoming and becoming more complex. It truly wasn't shallow loving, and that's the important thing. As for the antagonist, it's pretty easy to pinpoint who it was and I will not spoil it for you. Now, I'm off to read BOOK 1 and 2. These two author tag-team really convinced me to read about their other characters who were equally complex.
I can't even begin to explain to you what a page turner this was. I am not a fan of insta-love that borders on the 'unrealistic' side. That just makes a boring story to read. This one had the right amount of push-pull, the ANGST was good and it certainly kept me on my toes the entire way to read WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. It's like a virtual chess of love, who's going to make the next move, and who's going to win?
OUR HERO is a tortured man still haunted by the demons that plagues him ever since his 8 month long imprisonment by the French. He certainly didn't come out unscathed, and I'm no meanie but heroes like this make the most intriguing characters to read about. Because THEY ARE NOT EASY, and that challenge itself makes them irresistible. That one time he met the Princess, their attraction was instant but not the cheap kind. This one was visceral, hot, intense and real. But, she was his mother's ward so he automatically crosses her off his list. I believe that he already started loving her ever since because if he didn't, he wouldn't have rejected her suit so VEHEMENTLY and chose another docile woman to wed. THAT IN ITSELF SPEAKS VOLUME ABOUT HIS FEELINGS. His reason borders on the usual excuses given by tortured heroes - that he will hurt the woman they love caused by their PTSD reactions, especially in sleep. I like Henry's character, because he's the strong, dependable and masculine sort that just pulls you into his sphere. A man's man. It was enjoyable to watch him dance around Irina's tune, knowing full well that he can't resist her. The angst between them, was absolutely delicious and I am a connoisseur of that exact feeling. It's the one I feed on when I read stories by my favorite authors.
OUR HEROINE is a delightful woman - one who speaks her mind and goes for what she wants. All her life, ever since rescued from being kidnapped by her uncle's men, she was grateful to Henry and also, she can't help but fall for him. Three seasons later, she's still unwed. The reason? There is no one who measures up to Henry. He has ruined her for all others, thus earning her the title of Ice Princess and London's gaming halls are putting all their bets on winning the lady's favors - IN ALL MANNERS. Of course, this incensed Henry to no end. Irina has a partner in crime, her cousin twice removed from Russia, Max. Max's character was pretty appalling, judging by how he doesn't discriminate his sexual favors, woman, men, young or old as long as he gets money from them. Despite telling herself repeatedly that this will be the last time, with just a touch from Henry, all thoughts fly out the window and she's back to square one. How on Earth will she convince this stubborn man that they belong together? That she understands the horrors that he has faced as a victim herself?
OVERALL this was an entertaining story that didn't bore me halfway. I read it till the end, enjoying the drawn out angst and sexual tension between the characters, seeing their relationship blossoming and becoming more complex. It truly wasn't shallow loving, and that's the important thing. As for the antagonist, it's pretty easy to pinpoint who it was and I will not spoil it for you. Now, I'm off to read BOOK 1 and 2. These two author tag-team really convinced me to read about their other characters who were equally complex.
August 2, 2017
Lord Henry Radcliffe doesn't want anything to do with love, but with his thirtieth birthday approaching, he must marry. However, the only woman he wants is too innocent for his sexual appetite. He won't subject her to his war-ravaged past, but Princess Irina Volkonsky is determined to provoke Henry every time they're in the same room together. Will Irina finally win the heart of the man she's always loved, or will Henry lose her to someone that wants Irina for themselves?
I am coming to absolutely love Historical Romance, and this book is just one of my many reasons why. Not only because the main characters were incredible and intriguing with their back stories and their journey to happy ever after, but because their chemistry and romance is explosive and spills over onto the pages in nicely-detailed sex scenes that are well worth the wait. Right from the beginning, this story was attention-grabbing because the heroine is an absolutely hellion, determined to scandalize London with her flirtations and her desire to remain single. Why should she marry before she's ready?
As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories, as both have been through hard times in the past with Henry suffering demons from his time at war and Irina suffering at the hands of someone that should have treated her and her sister with love and kindness. Will Irina be able to help Henry overcome his demons? However, there were some light-hearted moments between the hero and heroine that I loved. Henry knows he shouldn't be interacting in the up close and personal way he does with Irina, but she's the one woman he can't seem to resist.
Furthermore, the main characters made this story a real page turner for me, as Irina is resilient, sassy and I loved how determined she was to provoke the hero. Will a scandal ruin her reputation? I also liked how courageous the heroine was in going after what she wanted when it seemed all hope is lost. Henry is the only man she sees a future with and there's no way she's going to let him get away. While the hero, I could sympathize with him when it came to his past and the reactions he has to certain situations that remind him of what he's been through. Certainly, he's strong and brave and I liked how the heroine helped him overcome anything that was too hard for Henry to handle.
Overall, the wonderful duo of Ms. Howard and Ms. Morgan have penned a fascinating read in this book that entertained me from start to finish with a storyline that had me wondering whether Henry would ever be free of the past and whether the main characters would be able to find a way to put an end to someone's desire to see them never get their happy ever after. The way this story ended had me on the edge-of-my-seat with what Henry and Irina go through, but I liked how everything worked out for this couple in the end because they're meant to be together. Yet, what I liked most about the ending was the epilogue, as it wrapped this story up perfectly, especially with the surprise the heroine had for their family. I would recommend My Hellion, My Heart by Amalie Howard and Angie Morgan, if you enjoy Historical Romance or books by authors Collette Cameron, Sophie Jordan, Kimberly Bell and Lorraine Heath.
August 5, 2017
Princess Irina Volkonsky is beautiful, rich, and titled, which means she should have no problem snagging a husband, right? I mean, those are the only things needed according to the ton, so the question remains, why is she still single?
Because she’s turned down all offers. So many, in fact, that her rigidity has garnered her some very cold nicknames. It’s not that she feels she’s above everyone else, which she could claim since she’s a princess. She’s more down-to-earth than that, which made me love and root for her even more. Irina has refused to wed because the one and only man she wants doesn’t return her affection. So she believes, and so he says. But what fun with this novel be if there wasn’t a little untruth in there somewhere? Let’s evaluate that shall we?
Lord Henry Radcliffe has many secrets. The war has left him bruised in many ways, and he’s gotten good at hiding his scars. He doesn’t allow himself to get close to anyone,- other than physically, that is-, and despite his almost obsession with Irina, he refuses to go there. She was previously his ward. For goodness sakes, she’s just a child. Or at least she was when he first met her. Not so much so now that they’ve reunited. She’s nineteen – marriageable age. But his other secret still makes her off limits. The war changed him, and he’s afraid if she finds out what he’d been through, she’d be disgusted. He’d rather have her as a friend than not have her at all.
Irina is having none of that “just friends” business, though. She’s definitely refreshing with her hellion ways – so fun, so forthcoming, so unwilling to adhere to all matters of propriety. What a princess, and what a danger to Henry’s plan to stay unattached. She goes where he goes – well, they travel in the same circles, and all – and she doesn’t hesitate to show – or tell – how she feels. Henry’s will is breaking in the face of her charms, and what fun they have discovering each other and all that’s changed.
Now, my absolute favorite romances are historical and suspense (No offense to any other romance subgenre. You’re all my babies.), but how my heart thumps when the two are combined. Historical romantic suspense. I ate this one up. Delicious!
There’s so much more I want to say, but I don’t want to ruin it. All I know is I got one helluva a surprise. Talk about a twist and turn – I damn near fell off the bed. The smoothness of it all nearly floored me (pun intended 😉 ) Now that’s what I call some outstanding writing.
Such original characters and vivid descriptions. I’m totally invested in this series.
Kudos to Howard and Morgan!!!
Because she’s turned down all offers. So many, in fact, that her rigidity has garnered her some very cold nicknames. It’s not that she feels she’s above everyone else, which she could claim since she’s a princess. She’s more down-to-earth than that, which made me love and root for her even more. Irina has refused to wed because the one and only man she wants doesn’t return her affection. So she believes, and so he says. But what fun with this novel be if there wasn’t a little untruth in there somewhere? Let’s evaluate that shall we?
Lord Henry Radcliffe has many secrets. The war has left him bruised in many ways, and he’s gotten good at hiding his scars. He doesn’t allow himself to get close to anyone,- other than physically, that is-, and despite his almost obsession with Irina, he refuses to go there. She was previously his ward. For goodness sakes, she’s just a child. Or at least she was when he first met her. Not so much so now that they’ve reunited. She’s nineteen – marriageable age. But his other secret still makes her off limits. The war changed him, and he’s afraid if she finds out what he’d been through, she’d be disgusted. He’d rather have her as a friend than not have her at all.
Irina is having none of that “just friends” business, though. She’s definitely refreshing with her hellion ways – so fun, so forthcoming, so unwilling to adhere to all matters of propriety. What a princess, and what a danger to Henry’s plan to stay unattached. She goes where he goes – well, they travel in the same circles, and all – and she doesn’t hesitate to show – or tell – how she feels. Henry’s will is breaking in the face of her charms, and what fun they have discovering each other and all that’s changed.
Now, my absolute favorite romances are historical and suspense (No offense to any other romance subgenre. You’re all my babies.), but how my heart thumps when the two are combined. Historical romantic suspense. I ate this one up. Delicious!
There’s so much more I want to say, but I don’t want to ruin it. All I know is I got one helluva a surprise. Talk about a twist and turn – I damn near fell off the bed. The smoothness of it all nearly floored me (pun intended 😉 ) Now that’s what I call some outstanding writing.
Such original characters and vivid descriptions. I’m totally invested in this series.
Kudos to Howard and Morgan!!!
July 23, 2017
This story is set in the 19th century. It starts off in Paris and continues in London and Essex. It's the season when all the eligible batchelors and young maidens attend functions, in the hope of finding a suitable match.
Henry, the Earl of Langlevit is reluctant to settle down. Whilst working for the crown he was captured, imprisoned and tortured. His physical and psychological scars are not obvious whereas his good looks and physique stand out. He is plagued by nightmares and his escapism is sex. It has come to a point where he has to get married and produce heirs or lose his title. It's part of an ongoing agreement.
Irina is a Princess, well known for going against etiquettes. She has refused many proposals since she lost her heart to the one man that she can't have. Max is her best friend and partner in crime. They decide to leave Paris and spend part of the season in London and create havoc!
Irina's crush for Henry has developed into something deeper. Everytime she sees him, she goes weak at the knees. He doesn't think that he is good enough for her because of his past but, whenever the opportunity arises, he can't keep his hands off her. He gives her hope, then he pushes her away. The situation appears to be hopeless and they both make alternative arrangements!
When Henry decides to fight for what he wants and Irina decides to come clean, an unexpected situation comes into play. Henry's life is at risk and Irina is shocked when she discovers that they have been betrayed. The traitor and his reasons are even more shocking! Can they find a way out of this traitorous predicament?
This story portrays two main characters who have been in situations which have left them with post traumatic stress disorders. One far worse than the other. Love is a powerful healer! It's a moving story with convincing characters. It's well balanced with equal portions of sorrow, deceit, greed, betrayal as well as love, passion, fun and laughter. The suspense, especially towards the end kept me glued to the book. As soon as one problem is solved, another one rears its ugly head. A nail biting, captivating and romantic story well worth reading.
I was kindly issued with an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
Henry, the Earl of Langlevit is reluctant to settle down. Whilst working for the crown he was captured, imprisoned and tortured. His physical and psychological scars are not obvious whereas his good looks and physique stand out. He is plagued by nightmares and his escapism is sex. It has come to a point where he has to get married and produce heirs or lose his title. It's part of an ongoing agreement.
Irina is a Princess, well known for going against etiquettes. She has refused many proposals since she lost her heart to the one man that she can't have. Max is her best friend and partner in crime. They decide to leave Paris and spend part of the season in London and create havoc!
Irina's crush for Henry has developed into something deeper. Everytime she sees him, she goes weak at the knees. He doesn't think that he is good enough for her because of his past but, whenever the opportunity arises, he can't keep his hands off her. He gives her hope, then he pushes her away. The situation appears to be hopeless and they both make alternative arrangements!
When Henry decides to fight for what he wants and Irina decides to come clean, an unexpected situation comes into play. Henry's life is at risk and Irina is shocked when she discovers that they have been betrayed. The traitor and his reasons are even more shocking! Can they find a way out of this traitorous predicament?
This story portrays two main characters who have been in situations which have left them with post traumatic stress disorders. One far worse than the other. Love is a powerful healer! It's a moving story with convincing characters. It's well balanced with equal portions of sorrow, deceit, greed, betrayal as well as love, passion, fun and laughter. The suspense, especially towards the end kept me glued to the book. As soon as one problem is solved, another one rears its ugly head. A nail biting, captivating and romantic story well worth reading.
I was kindly issued with an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
July 18, 2017
Publisher's Description:
He fought battles for crown and country. She waged war for his heart.
Lord Henry Radcliffe, the scarred but sinfully sexy Earl of Langlevit, is a beast. The only way Henry can exorcise the demons of his war-ravaged past is through intense physicality. In and out of bed. An endeavor that has no shortage of willing participants.
Intent on scandalizing London, Princess Irina Volkonsky is a hellion and every gentleman’s deepest desire...except for one. Irina knows better than to provoke the wickedly forbidding earl, but she will stop at nothing short of ruination to win the heart of the only man she’s ever loved.
But when one scandalous kiss makes dangerous passions ignite, neither of them can fight their sizzling attraction. When a sinister plot emerges to threaten them both, they will have to fight one last battle, this time for the ultimate prize...love.
My Thoughts:
This book is written on the same premise as another one I have read recently.
Irena has been in love with Henry for a long time. Irena is highly sought after even though she wants nothing to do with any of her suitors.
Henry feels marriage is not in his future. He runs an obstacle course daily in order to hold off his demons in the nightmares he has as a result of war.
Will Irena succeed in exorcising Henry's demons? Will love succeed where nothing else has?
This well written book has a storyline that kept me enthralled. I couldn't put it down. The characters and story are well developed and engaging.
I gave it 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 4.0 of 5.0 flames. Although our hero and heroine clearly desire one another their personal issues keep them from acting on their desires for most of the story.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
He fought battles for crown and country. She waged war for his heart.
Lord Henry Radcliffe, the scarred but sinfully sexy Earl of Langlevit, is a beast. The only way Henry can exorcise the demons of his war-ravaged past is through intense physicality. In and out of bed. An endeavor that has no shortage of willing participants.
Intent on scandalizing London, Princess Irina Volkonsky is a hellion and every gentleman’s deepest desire...except for one. Irina knows better than to provoke the wickedly forbidding earl, but she will stop at nothing short of ruination to win the heart of the only man she’s ever loved.
But when one scandalous kiss makes dangerous passions ignite, neither of them can fight their sizzling attraction. When a sinister plot emerges to threaten them both, they will have to fight one last battle, this time for the ultimate prize...love.
My Thoughts:
This book is written on the same premise as another one I have read recently.
Irena has been in love with Henry for a long time. Irena is highly sought after even though she wants nothing to do with any of her suitors.
Henry feels marriage is not in his future. He runs an obstacle course daily in order to hold off his demons in the nightmares he has as a result of war.
Will Irena succeed in exorcising Henry's demons? Will love succeed where nothing else has?
This well written book has a storyline that kept me enthralled. I couldn't put it down. The characters and story are well developed and engaging.
I gave it 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 4.0 of 5.0 flames. Although our hero and heroine clearly desire one another their personal issues keep them from acting on their desires for most of the story.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
July 5, 2024
1.5 stars
Tropes: Age Gap (11 years), Danger, Guardian/Ward (former), Hurt/Comfort, Lords & Ladies, Military, Kidnapping, Royalty
Genres, settings, categories, themes: historical romance (M/F), suspense, Regency England
Series/Sequencing Style: 3rd in an anthology series, can be read as standalone, no cliffhanger
understanding series types: dynamic, static, anthology - source 1, source 2
Overall ratings
Heat level: (from Susanna Carr's categorizations – wholesome/clean, sweet, sensual, sexy, erotic)
Heroine (Irina) 4/5
Hero (Henry) 1-2/5
Pacing: 1/5 way too slow of a start for the intrigue
Angst level: high
Review/Notes
Took 300 pages for any real excitement/danger to happen.
The H was way too hot & cold. I'm all for a little bit of *will they won't they* but not an entire book of the H playing her back and forth. I liked that the h was fiery & bold, etc. etc., but she didn't really hold her own with this fuckboy.
Also, 11 year age difference isn't my favorite.
Tropes: Age Gap (11 years), Danger, Guardian/Ward (former), Hurt/Comfort, Lords & Ladies, Military, Kidnapping, Royalty
Genres, settings, categories, themes: historical romance (M/F), suspense, Regency England
Series/Sequencing Style: 3rd in an anthology series, can be read as standalone, no cliffhanger
understanding series types: dynamic, static, anthology - source 1, source 2
Overall ratings
Heat level: (from Susanna Carr's categorizations – wholesome/clean, sweet, sensual, sexy, erotic)
Heroine (Irina) 4/5
Hero (Henry) 1-2/5
Pacing: 1/5 way too slow of a start for the intrigue
Angst level: high
Review/Notes
Took 300 pages for any real excitement/danger to happen.
The H was way too hot & cold. I'm all for a little bit of *will they won't they* but not an entire book of the H playing her back and forth. I liked that the h was fiery & bold, etc. etc., but she didn't really hold her own with this fuckboy.
Also, 11 year age difference isn't my favorite.
July 13, 2017
4.5 stars
Lord Henry Radcliffe, the scarred but sinfully sexy Earl of Langlevit still hasn’t fully recovered from the time he was captured & tortured by the French & he tries to exorcise the demons by intense physicality. In and out of bed. An endeavour that has no shortage of willing participants.
Intent on scandalizing London, Princess Irina Volkonsky is a hellion and every gentleman’s deepest desire...except for one. Irina knows better than to provoke Henry, but she will stop at nothing short of ruination to win the heart of the only man she’s ever loved since she was fourteen.
This is the third book in the series & although we catch up with the characters from the first two books this book could well be a standalone book. Both Henry & Irina are fighting their demons & only seem to find peace when they are together but Henry in particular feels he is too scarred to be able to love. Irina still doesn’t like confined spaces following her kidnapping five years ago & she still has nightmares. The characters are well developed & are believable, the relationship between Henry & Irina develops gradually & we as readers are aware of Henry’s feelings before he is. The dialogues are witty & entertaining. The pace of the book is very good & the tempo is kept up throughout, the climax being fast paced. The villain is a tortured soul who had my pity as well as Irina’s I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all three Lord of Essex books & this was my favourite. I look forward to more books from the authors
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Lord Henry Radcliffe, the scarred but sinfully sexy Earl of Langlevit still hasn’t fully recovered from the time he was captured & tortured by the French & he tries to exorcise the demons by intense physicality. In and out of bed. An endeavour that has no shortage of willing participants.
Intent on scandalizing London, Princess Irina Volkonsky is a hellion and every gentleman’s deepest desire...except for one. Irina knows better than to provoke Henry, but she will stop at nothing short of ruination to win the heart of the only man she’s ever loved since she was fourteen.
This is the third book in the series & although we catch up with the characters from the first two books this book could well be a standalone book. Both Henry & Irina are fighting their demons & only seem to find peace when they are together but Henry in particular feels he is too scarred to be able to love. Irina still doesn’t like confined spaces following her kidnapping five years ago & she still has nightmares. The characters are well developed & are believable, the relationship between Henry & Irina develops gradually & we as readers are aware of Henry’s feelings before he is. The dialogues are witty & entertaining. The pace of the book is very good & the tempo is kept up throughout, the climax being fast paced. The villain is a tortured soul who had my pity as well as Irina’s I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all three Lord of Essex books & this was my favourite. I look forward to more books from the authors
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 9, 2017
I absolutely adored this book!! To be honest, when I first started reading it, I thought it would be exactly like your typical romance full of tired and overused cliches. I thought it would be rushed with little character development and lack of believability. Boy, was I proven wrong! Quickly proven wrong, for that matter! I loved the characters--ALL of them even poor, misguided Max. Even though he turned out to be a major jerk, I understood his motivations and like Irina, pitied him. I understood perfectly each character's motivations. That's been rare in the past for books like this. The characters were charming, authentic, and believable. I also believed in Irina and Henry's love for each other. At some points, it seemed a little rocky. I was afraid it was more about lust than anything, but the way it was written, the audience discovers parts of the character's personality, motivations, and insights when they do, so whereas Henry believes (or has led himself to believe) that he only wants Irina physically, he actually has genuine feelings for her. This comes across in his actions. The reader notices this before he does. This is the type of romance that makes it possible to believe that two broken and damaged people can heal each other. That redemption is possible for anyone. Even though it's fiction, it could have actually been a real event. Although, the real event wouldn't have been as beautifully executed and written!
July 12, 2017
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
A good, solid historical romance with a well crafted wounded hero and a strong heroine who also carries some baggage of her own.
I really liked the hero, Henry (the Earl of Langlevit), a tortured man, still deeply haunted by his time as a spy for the crown and the darkness and pain he has been through. And of course the brazen, beautiful princess Irina, who in the end turns into a fierce female warrior, is the one who can heal him.
Although I liked the depiction of what would be currently considered as PTSD, I thought that, in the real world, Irina’s soothing power would never be enough for so serious a situation.
But they are very good together, both strong, tender and sweet to each other (“Both fractured by their pasts, they had found strength and a haven in each other.” - loc. 4725, quote from ARC). I liked how their relationship developed.
I also enjoyed the rendering of the villain, all that duplicity and foul play was wickedly nice!
I'm grateful to the publisher, Entangled Publishing/Select Historical, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
A good, solid historical romance with a well crafted wounded hero and a strong heroine who also carries some baggage of her own.
I really liked the hero, Henry (the Earl of Langlevit), a tortured man, still deeply haunted by his time as a spy for the crown and the darkness and pain he has been through. And of course the brazen, beautiful princess Irina, who in the end turns into a fierce female warrior, is the one who can heal him.
Although I liked the depiction of what would be currently considered as PTSD, I thought that, in the real world, Irina’s soothing power would never be enough for so serious a situation.
But they are very good together, both strong, tender and sweet to each other (“Both fractured by their pasts, they had found strength and a haven in each other.” - loc. 4725, quote from ARC). I liked how their relationship developed.
I also enjoyed the rendering of the villain, all that duplicity and foul play was wickedly nice!
I'm grateful to the publisher, Entangled Publishing/Select Historical, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
July 22, 2017
Princess Irina Volkonsky is a sought after beauty who is bored with society and their affectations. She doesn't want to be married for her money and her position. She wants love and there is only one man she desires. She cares for Henry James Radcliffe, Earl of Langlevit. She adores him. He protected her and her sister. Now he's a changed man. War and torture changed him into a man who keeps away from others. Can they follow their heart? Princess Irina and Harry are strong people. They both have emotional baggage that controls part of their soul. They are passionate and unconventional. They have powerful chemistry. Irina opens her heart to Henry but he rebuffs her. I hated that he felt so unworthy. He is a good man. Irina is reckless and ruled by her emotions. I liked her spirit. My Hellion, My Heart is an entertaining story filled with passion and danger. The setting is glamorous and the dialogue is witty. The secondary characters are interesting and add their distinctive style to the story. I never knew what was coming next. I'm enjoying the Lords of Essex series.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
July 23, 2017
Princess Irina Volkonsky has become one of my most favorite characters. She cannot conform to the society's rules, and loves to cause trouble wherever she goes. After spending some time in France, and breaking numerous hearts, she is back in London. There are many young gentlemen vying for her hand in marriage, but the only one she wants doesn't pay any attention to her. she will make him notice her no matter what.
She is the most beautiful woman in Town, and no longer the little girl Lord Henry Radcliffe knew. It is becoming more and more difficult to resist her. Will he be able to stay away for long. Knowing that he must marry soon, and she is definitely not the kind of woman he wants as his wife, she is too innocent, and doesn't know what kind of a man her really is. But she is also the only one he can't stop thinking about. Will they be able to make things work or are they making a mistake? No matter, they must try because resisting each other is just not possible any more....
The book is very well-written, with twists and turns which will keep readers on their toes. I enjoyed reading it a lot and hope that others do too.
She is the most beautiful woman in Town, and no longer the little girl Lord Henry Radcliffe knew. It is becoming more and more difficult to resist her. Will he be able to stay away for long. Knowing that he must marry soon, and she is definitely not the kind of woman he wants as his wife, she is too innocent, and doesn't know what kind of a man her really is. But she is also the only one he can't stop thinking about. Will they be able to make things work or are they making a mistake? No matter, they must try because resisting each other is just not possible any more....
The book is very well-written, with twists and turns which will keep readers on their toes. I enjoyed reading it a lot and hope that others do too.
July 22, 2017
My Hellion, My Heart by Amalie Howard and Angie Morgan
Lords of Essex #3
A princess and an Earl find a future together, eventually, in this wonderful historical romance. As the blurb mentions, Henry is scarred physically and emotionally after his experiences in war. Irina has had a tendre for Henry since she was fourteen and really would like to spend the rest of her life with Henry BUT he is sure he is NOT the man for her - even though the two definitely feel a spark when together. With Henry pushing Irina away, Irina’s scallywag cousin wagering on Irina’s future along with all the young men of the Ton, Henry needing a wife to maintain his earldom, a kidnapping or two, some very evil men to deal with and plenty of drama and some smoldering interactions this is a book that kept me turning pages from beginning to end. Having not read the first two books of the series was not a problem although I do now want to find out what stories were told in them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
Lords of Essex #3
A princess and an Earl find a future together, eventually, in this wonderful historical romance. As the blurb mentions, Henry is scarred physically and emotionally after his experiences in war. Irina has had a tendre for Henry since she was fourteen and really would like to spend the rest of her life with Henry BUT he is sure he is NOT the man for her - even though the two definitely feel a spark when together. With Henry pushing Irina away, Irina’s scallywag cousin wagering on Irina’s future along with all the young men of the Ton, Henry needing a wife to maintain his earldom, a kidnapping or two, some very evil men to deal with and plenty of drama and some smoldering interactions this is a book that kept me turning pages from beginning to end. Having not read the first two books of the series was not a problem although I do now want to find out what stories were told in them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
July 31, 2017
I found so much to love about this third installment in the Lord of Essex series. I did not find an overwhelming connection to the previous books that would require one be familiar with them before reading this one. I did love Irina was my hero. She was daring, courageous, feisty, headstrong, intelligent, sassy and pure woman-on-a-mission. Henry had no idea what hit him and how it hit him so hard. He has loved her from afar and was determined she needed better. She was not going to settle for less than she felt she desired. And she felt she deserved Henry.
I loved the entanglements that Irina got into. I loved her wit, charm, and spunk. She kept the story moving for me and that was the best part for me. I found a bit of intrigue around a few corners and a bit of a surprise or disappointment. I guess that would be determined on how your mind work when reading.
Full steam ahead. For me this one has topped the cookie jar. Pick this one up and let the Lords of Essex take you on a journey to forever.
I loved the entanglements that Irina got into. I loved her wit, charm, and spunk. She kept the story moving for me and that was the best part for me. I found a bit of intrigue around a few corners and a bit of a surprise or disappointment. I guess that would be determined on how your mind work when reading.
Full steam ahead. For me this one has topped the cookie jar. Pick this one up and let the Lords of Essex take you on a journey to forever.
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