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The D'Avenant Brothers #1
Silver and Sapphires
DANGEROUS SEDUCTION
She is Princess Ashiana -- English by birth, she must prove her loyalty by reclaiming the ancient sapphire stolen from the sacred shrine. Posing as a slave girl, she seizes her opportunity with the man who now wears the jewel around his neck. He is Saxon D'Avenant, English captain and smuggler on a mission of his own: to reunite his single sapphire with the other eight in order to lift the curse that plagues his family.
They meet as adversaries--he, the powerfully sensual master who will use her for his own pleasure; she, the beautiful blue-eyed slave whose lascivious loveliness masks a dark deception. Yet in that mirrored paradise of silk and seduction, their hearts swell to the merciless call of awakened desire--carrying them helplessly into the dangerous, unchartered waters of love's most passionate adventure.
She is Princess Ashiana -- English by birth, she must prove her loyalty by reclaiming the ancient sapphire stolen from the sacred shrine. Posing as a slave girl, she seizes her opportunity with the man who now wears the jewel around his neck. He is Saxon D'Avenant, English captain and smuggler on a mission of his own: to reunite his single sapphire with the other eight in order to lift the curse that plagues his family.
They meet as adversaries--he, the powerfully sensual master who will use her for his own pleasure; she, the beautiful blue-eyed slave whose lascivious loveliness masks a dark deception. Yet in that mirrored paradise of silk and seduction, their hearts swell to the merciless call of awakened desire--carrying them helplessly into the dangerous, unchartered waters of love's most passionate adventure.
376 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 1993
159 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
Shelly Thacker
27 books300 followersUSA Today bestselling author Shelly Thacker has earned lavish praise from Publishers Weekly, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Detroit Free Press and The Oakland Press, who have called her historical romance novels “innovative,” “addictive,” “steamy” and “powerful.”
A two-time RWA RITA Award finalist, Shelly has won numerous other honors for her novels, including a National Readers' Choice Award, several Romantic Times Certificates of Excellence, and five straight KISS Awards for her outstanding heroes. The Detroit Free Press has twice placed her romances on their annual list of the year's best.
When she’s not at the computer, you’ll find Shelly reading with her kids, knitting in local cafes, or kickboxing at the gym. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and two daughters. For the latest news and sneak previews of upcoming books, visit her at http://www.facebook.com/AuthorShellyT... or http://www.shellythacker.com
A two-time RWA RITA Award finalist, Shelly has won numerous other honors for her novels, including a National Readers' Choice Award, several Romantic Times Certificates of Excellence, and five straight KISS Awards for her outstanding heroes. The Detroit Free Press has twice placed her romances on their annual list of the year's best.
When she’s not at the computer, you’ll find Shelly reading with her kids, knitting in local cafes, or kickboxing at the gym. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and two daughters. For the latest news and sneak previews of upcoming books, visit her at http://www.facebook.com/AuthorShellyT... or http://www.shellythacker.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 28, 2021
AMAZING. Another historical romance I absolutely loved. So much action and adventure and just an amazing romance. Ashiana grew up on the seas, but when he father dies, she goes to India and to live with her father's friend. Now, she is put in charge of going as a spy to recover the lost sapphire a man stole from her people. The sapphires must be reunited, so she poses as a slave girl given to this man so she can take it back from him. Saxon is a captain and has the sapphire his father stole that ended up cursing his family. He's determined to steal the other sapphires to lift the curse and save his family. The moment he meets the slave girl gifted to him, he knows she trouble. The two end up thrown together and go on an adventure while unwillingly falling for each other. They are enemies and Saxon knows he cannot trust Ashiana, but he can't help himself. He is also still recovering from the loss of his wife a year ago and knows his heart can never move on.
Ummm SO MUCH ANGST IN THIS BOOK. I loved how they were rivals and could not trust each other, but they couldn't resist each other either. Also, there was so much action and adventure and I loved it. We even had a villain come in at the end that forced the hero to confront his feelings and it was amazing. Seriously, I loved every second of this book! I can't wait to read more from this author!
Ummm SO MUCH ANGST IN THIS BOOK. I loved how they were rivals and could not trust each other, but they couldn't resist each other either. Also, there was so much action and adventure and I loved it. We even had a villain come in at the end that forced the hero to confront his feelings and it was amazing. Seriously, I loved every second of this book! I can't wait to read more from this author!
November 26, 2010
From the back cover:
Dangerous seduction...
She is Princess Ashiana--English by birth, she must prove her loyalty by reclaiming the ancient sapphire stolen from the sacred shrine. Posing as a slave girl, she seizes her opportunity with the man who now wears the jewel around his neck. He is Saxon D'Avenant, English captain and smuggler on a mission of his own: to reuinite his single sapphire with the other eight in order to lift the curse that plagues his family.
They meet as adversaries--he, the powerfullly sensual master who will use her for his own pleasure; she, the beautiful blue-eyed slave whose lascivious loveliness masks a dark deception. Yet in that mirrored paradise of silk and seduction, their hearts sweel to the merciless call of awakened desire--carrying them helplessly into the dangerous, unchartered waters of love's most passionate adventure.
And my review:
I bought this book without even bothering to dig up the synopsis because Shelly Thacker is one of my all-time favorite authors. Many of her books are my "desert island" keepers, including A Stranger's Kiss, His Forbidden Touch and Hearts Run Wild. So I've been eagerly seeking out everything she's written.
This was a book I wish I hadn't bought. I was utterly disgusted by the hero. While I knew that this was going to be a very sensual novel, I was unprepared for how selfish and boorish the hero was. First off, there's the fact that he will accept a woman given to him as a sex slave. While historically accurate, I find the entire idea revolting. Then there's the fact that he knows she's a virgin (is glad of it), and doesn't give a rip that she's understandably nervous. When she tells him that it is her first time and she is afraid, he replies, "I don't care a blasted fig whether it is your first time. Before this night is over you will have your second. And your third." This is heroic?
And when the heroine agrees to submit to him (she has no choice, after all), he is mad at her attitude, and says, "I would prefer that you fight me like a she-cat than act like a sacrifice being led to slaughter!" Okay--so he wouldn't have a problem with raping her, so long as she puts up a fight to make it interesting?! I was beyond disgusted. Even though the heroine drugs the hero and prevents him from taking her, it was too much for me. How could I cheer for the hero and heroine to get together when I was secretly hoping she'd stick a dagger between his ribs?
I'm just glad I didn't read this book first, or I would have missed out on some wonderful reads. Try the books I mentioned earlier instead of this one.
Dangerous seduction...
She is Princess Ashiana--English by birth, she must prove her loyalty by reclaiming the ancient sapphire stolen from the sacred shrine. Posing as a slave girl, she seizes her opportunity with the man who now wears the jewel around his neck. He is Saxon D'Avenant, English captain and smuggler on a mission of his own: to reuinite his single sapphire with the other eight in order to lift the curse that plagues his family.
They meet as adversaries--he, the powerfullly sensual master who will use her for his own pleasure; she, the beautiful blue-eyed slave whose lascivious loveliness masks a dark deception. Yet in that mirrored paradise of silk and seduction, their hearts sweel to the merciless call of awakened desire--carrying them helplessly into the dangerous, unchartered waters of love's most passionate adventure.
And my review:
I bought this book without even bothering to dig up the synopsis because Shelly Thacker is one of my all-time favorite authors. Many of her books are my "desert island" keepers, including A Stranger's Kiss, His Forbidden Touch and Hearts Run Wild. So I've been eagerly seeking out everything she's written.
This was a book I wish I hadn't bought. I was utterly disgusted by the hero. While I knew that this was going to be a very sensual novel, I was unprepared for how selfish and boorish the hero was. First off, there's the fact that he will accept a woman given to him as a sex slave. While historically accurate, I find the entire idea revolting. Then there's the fact that he knows she's a virgin (is glad of it), and doesn't give a rip that she's understandably nervous. When she tells him that it is her first time and she is afraid, he replies, "I don't care a blasted fig whether it is your first time. Before this night is over you will have your second. And your third." This is heroic?
And when the heroine agrees to submit to him (she has no choice, after all), he is mad at her attitude, and says, "I would prefer that you fight me like a she-cat than act like a sacrifice being led to slaughter!" Okay--so he wouldn't have a problem with raping her, so long as she puts up a fight to make it interesting?! I was beyond disgusted. Even though the heroine drugs the hero and prevents him from taking her, it was too much for me. How could I cheer for the hero and heroine to get together when I was secretly hoping she'd stick a dagger between his ribs?
I'm just glad I didn't read this book first, or I would have missed out on some wonderful reads. Try the books I mentioned earlier instead of this one.
January 21, 2020
One Night With a Scoundrel
Escape with a Scoundrel series book 3
by Shelly Thacker
A fantastic addictive read! One princess disguised as a dancing harem girl and one notorious second son of a Duke that’s all bad boy persona have the pages sizzling, with their slow burn attraction!
I was so captivated by the story I couldn’t put it down, it definitely kept hooked till the last page. I loved Ashiana de Canto e Calda she wasn’t the true daughter of the Maharajah, but his adopted daughter when her father was killed protecting the location of Nine Saphires of Kashmir. Interestingly enough Saxons father had one of the seven jewels and Saxon is tasked with retrieving the rest to put a stop to the curse that took his father's life, which now his younger brother is in danger of succumbing to the curse as well. Ashiana is of Portuguese and English decent but had lived all her life with Ajmir clan since the death of her dear father. Never really belonging she’s tasked of retrieving the stolen jewel that Saxon has on his person and thus begins their tale of intrigue mystery and sizzling attraction that has all the feels of one epic read! A romance that’s bound to leave a phenomenal impression!
I highly recommend this fast paced read by the very talented Shelly Thacker! I voluntary read an ARC gifted by the author, this is my honest unbiased opinion.
Escape with a Scoundrel series book 3
by Shelly Thacker
A fantastic addictive read! One princess disguised as a dancing harem girl and one notorious second son of a Duke that’s all bad boy persona have the pages sizzling, with their slow burn attraction!
I was so captivated by the story I couldn’t put it down, it definitely kept hooked till the last page. I loved Ashiana de Canto e Calda she wasn’t the true daughter of the Maharajah, but his adopted daughter when her father was killed protecting the location of Nine Saphires of Kashmir. Interestingly enough Saxons father had one of the seven jewels and Saxon is tasked with retrieving the rest to put a stop to the curse that took his father's life, which now his younger brother is in danger of succumbing to the curse as well. Ashiana is of Portuguese and English decent but had lived all her life with Ajmir clan since the death of her dear father. Never really belonging she’s tasked of retrieving the stolen jewel that Saxon has on his person and thus begins their tale of intrigue mystery and sizzling attraction that has all the feels of one epic read! A romance that’s bound to leave a phenomenal impression!
I highly recommend this fast paced read by the very talented Shelly Thacker! I voluntary read an ARC gifted by the author, this is my honest unbiased opinion.
January 16, 2020
This installment of the Escape with a Scoundrel series was originally a 1993 release titled Silver and Sapphires and was part of the D'Avenant Brothers Series - So, if you read if the aforementioned title - prepare to be shocked and awed! This is a completely revised and revamped edition and while the story is basically the same, the characters have completely changed (for the better).
Ashiana de Canto e Calda is the adopted daughter of the Maharaja of the Ajmir Clan. Her English mother died when she was a baby and her Portuguese father was slain before her by English pirates seeking the Nine Sapphires of Kashmir. Ashiana has been raised as a Ajmir Princess and is betrothed to the Maharaja's son Rao. She has a deep and abiding hatred for the English and longs to fit in with the Ajmir clan. So when her adopted father tells her the truth of the Sapphires and asks for her help retrieving the stolen gem she agrees without a moment of hesitation.
Lord Saxon D'Avenant's late father was a scoundrel, the Duke of Silverton, stole a sacred sapphire from the clan of Ajmir and brought a curse down on the family. Saxon was the duke’s the second son and was charged with breaking the curse that killed his father and threatens the life of his youngest brother. He must reunite the stolen gem with the other eight stones and he has spent the last ten years of his life trying to do just that and it has cost him much. His latest attempt nearly killed him and gave his enemy, the Earl of Greyslake the opportunity to destroy him - by killing the woman Saxon married. When Saxon's brother Julian finds him, Saxon is on the brink of losing himself. Julian refuses to let him give up and tells him of a way to finally break the curse. They will attend an event that the Maharaja will be at and hopefully learn where the sapphires are hidden. But it is not the Maharaja who attends the gathering - it is a harem girl. Saxon is horrified to find himself attracted to the girl, he tries to ignore the awareness between them and when his host gives him the girl as a gift, he wants to refuse, but Julian convinces him to accept and to see what he can learn from the girl.
Ashiana is also stunned by the attraction she feels towards the Englishman and when she meets with him later, she almost falls under his seductive spell and forgets her mission. She is tempted by him, but recalls her hatred and drugs him, steals the sapphire he wears in a pouch around his neck, but she can't kill him or leave him to die. She ensures his safety and takes her leave - planning to meet with a clansman to take her away. But before she make her escape, she is caught by Julian, she lies and says Saxon told her to collect her belongings and he would take her with him when he leaves. Julian believes her and insists on taking her to Saxon's ship - much to her dismay!
To say that Saxon was less than pleased to be reunited with Ashiana would be a huge understatement. But he knows she is the key to breaking the curse and vows to learn her secrets, find the sapphires and fulfill his duty to his family. And Ashiana is equally determined to outwit Saxon and stop him from finding the sapphires, no matter what the cost.
This was truly an epic tale, it is well written and it flows wonderfully but it did have a very strong late-80’s bodice ripper vibe (albeit a toned down version). I enjoyed this story, it is not your typical Georgian romance, this story is filled with action, adventure, deception, secrets, more lies, steamy love scenes, shipwrecks, abductions, sacrifice, betrayal, heartache, wonderful characters, priceless gems, a tiger and a very hard-won HEA. I must mention that despite the author’s effort to rewrite this story to appeal to a more modern audience and for the most part being successful – there is one sex scene in the book that might be offensive to sensitive readers – it is not rape or even “forced seduction” – but it might be upsetting nonetheless. I, personally, was not offended and although it did not endear me to Saxon, it did not ruin the story for me. This is the third book in the series, but the books are not connected and can be read as stand-alone titles. I liked this book and would be happy to recommend it with the notation that there is a scene that might upset more sensitive readers.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me.*
Ashiana de Canto e Calda is the adopted daughter of the Maharaja of the Ajmir Clan. Her English mother died when she was a baby and her Portuguese father was slain before her by English pirates seeking the Nine Sapphires of Kashmir. Ashiana has been raised as a Ajmir Princess and is betrothed to the Maharaja's son Rao. She has a deep and abiding hatred for the English and longs to fit in with the Ajmir clan. So when her adopted father tells her the truth of the Sapphires and asks for her help retrieving the stolen gem she agrees without a moment of hesitation.
Lord Saxon D'Avenant's late father was a scoundrel, the Duke of Silverton, stole a sacred sapphire from the clan of Ajmir and brought a curse down on the family. Saxon was the duke’s the second son and was charged with breaking the curse that killed his father and threatens the life of his youngest brother. He must reunite the stolen gem with the other eight stones and he has spent the last ten years of his life trying to do just that and it has cost him much. His latest attempt nearly killed him and gave his enemy, the Earl of Greyslake the opportunity to destroy him - by killing the woman Saxon married. When Saxon's brother Julian finds him, Saxon is on the brink of losing himself. Julian refuses to let him give up and tells him of a way to finally break the curse. They will attend an event that the Maharaja will be at and hopefully learn where the sapphires are hidden. But it is not the Maharaja who attends the gathering - it is a harem girl. Saxon is horrified to find himself attracted to the girl, he tries to ignore the awareness between them and when his host gives him the girl as a gift, he wants to refuse, but Julian convinces him to accept and to see what he can learn from the girl.
Ashiana is also stunned by the attraction she feels towards the Englishman and when she meets with him later, she almost falls under his seductive spell and forgets her mission. She is tempted by him, but recalls her hatred and drugs him, steals the sapphire he wears in a pouch around his neck, but she can't kill him or leave him to die. She ensures his safety and takes her leave - planning to meet with a clansman to take her away. But before she make her escape, she is caught by Julian, she lies and says Saxon told her to collect her belongings and he would take her with him when he leaves. Julian believes her and insists on taking her to Saxon's ship - much to her dismay!
To say that Saxon was less than pleased to be reunited with Ashiana would be a huge understatement. But he knows she is the key to breaking the curse and vows to learn her secrets, find the sapphires and fulfill his duty to his family. And Ashiana is equally determined to outwit Saxon and stop him from finding the sapphires, no matter what the cost.
This was truly an epic tale, it is well written and it flows wonderfully but it did have a very strong late-80’s bodice ripper vibe (albeit a toned down version). I enjoyed this story, it is not your typical Georgian romance, this story is filled with action, adventure, deception, secrets, more lies, steamy love scenes, shipwrecks, abductions, sacrifice, betrayal, heartache, wonderful characters, priceless gems, a tiger and a very hard-won HEA. I must mention that despite the author’s effort to rewrite this story to appeal to a more modern audience and for the most part being successful – there is one sex scene in the book that might be offensive to sensitive readers – it is not rape or even “forced seduction” – but it might be upsetting nonetheless. I, personally, was not offended and although it did not endear me to Saxon, it did not ruin the story for me. This is the third book in the series, but the books are not connected and can be read as stand-alone titles. I liked this book and would be happy to recommend it with the notation that there is a scene that might upset more sensitive readers.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me.*
January 21, 2020
One Night with a Scoundrel (Escape with a Scoundrel Series Book 3) by Shelly Thacker is a dramatic, suspenseful Historical Romance set from an emperor's royal palace to the seas of the Bay of Bengal to the fog-shadowed streets of London.
While, book 3 it can can be read as a stand alone.
Breathtaking suspense, mystery, stolen jewels, danger, secrets and love.
Follow, Princess Ashiana, disguised as a lowly dancing girl, and Saxon D'Avenant, a smuggler and a seafaring captain, on a journey that is addictive, steamy and powerful.
Ashiana and Saxon’s path to happiness is entertaining to read about, with secrets, misunderstandings, drama, intrigue, romance and some steamy scenes to a completely addictive story of family, curses, and surprises.
I absolutely loved this story from the first page to the last page. Grabbed me from the start. Steady paced, intriguing, adventurous, captivating and entertaining. Well done, Ms. Thacker!
A must read for fans of Historical Romance, adventure, romance, mystery and suspense. An absolute thrill ride of a story!!
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Steamy
Reviewer: AprilR
While, book 3 it can can be read as a stand alone.
Breathtaking suspense, mystery, stolen jewels, danger, secrets and love.
Follow, Princess Ashiana, disguised as a lowly dancing girl, and Saxon D'Avenant, a smuggler and a seafaring captain, on a journey that is addictive, steamy and powerful.
Ashiana and Saxon’s path to happiness is entertaining to read about, with secrets, misunderstandings, drama, intrigue, romance and some steamy scenes to a completely addictive story of family, curses, and surprises.
I absolutely loved this story from the first page to the last page. Grabbed me from the start. Steady paced, intriguing, adventurous, captivating and entertaining. Well done, Ms. Thacker!
A must read for fans of Historical Romance, adventure, romance, mystery and suspense. An absolute thrill ride of a story!!
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Steamy
Reviewer: AprilR
January 20, 2020
A few years ago, I discovered Shelly Thacker in my library's ebook section and took a chance on this new to me author with her adventurous medieval romance series, Stolen Brides (highly recommend them). I was NOT disappointed! She has such talent for creating unforgettable characters and imaginative stories. So, last week when a chance was offered to read an advanced copy of a rewritten and revamped version of One Night With a Scoundrel, I was excited to do so and this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
What a thrill to have a chance to read another outstanding historical romance by this talented author, set this time in a different period-the 1740's and taking place on land and seas from England to India along with many destinations in between.
As the story begins, 6 year old Princess Ashiana was rescued from her burning ship after her captain father was ruthlessly killed by English pirates seeking the mythological Sapphires of Kashmir. Her savior that day- her fathers dear friend, the Maharaja of Clan Ajmir. There is nothing she wouldn't do for her adopted father and family, to fit into their society, or to repay them for taking her in and providing her with this life of luxury.
Saxon D'Avenant, a duke's aristocratic second son and sea captain for the British East India Company, has been searching in vane for the gemstones that cursed first his father, now his younger brother for the better part of 10 years. His promise to his father to break the curse by uniting his one stolen gemstone to the 8 remaining sapphires has just about broken him, mentally and physically but he'll do what's needed to save his brothers life. What his sarcastic, jaded mind doesn't expect in his wildest dreams is that in coming back to India, the beautiful 'dancing girl' given to him for his pleasure will also inevitably be the one to bring him to his knees as his search for those gems continues.
This begins the sweeping saga that forces the wary, suspicious Saxon and sweet, seductive Ashiana together as they both try to do whatever it takes to get those not so mythic Sapphires for themselves and bring all 9 of them together as they are meant to be. Each wanting those stones for their own selfish purposes- prepared to do whatever it takes to get them back to where THEY think those gems belong, in the hands of THEIR own people.
From the high seas, where they form an unexpected bond, to the shipwrecked island where survival, hurt, deceit and betrayal all play their parts, Ashiana and Saxon are forever linked in their reluctant hearts and minds. Two entirely different individuals with nothing much in common but their mission, yet everything they could ever want might be found in each other, if they would only listen to those little voices in their heads. Finally rescued and taken to England, Saxon is reunited with his family, who welcome him with open arms after years apart, while vengeful foes await both he and Ashiana, ready and willing to kill for those precious gems!
This was quite an exciting, no holds barred, suspenseful book that had so many twists and turns everywhere you looked that I could barely put it down. A reminder why I love this author, how much a witty, clever and steamy historical romance can capture your heart and attention until the last wonderful page is turned. I hadn't read anything like this for so long and it was my pleasure to read about all the interesting, well developed characters, the colorful descriptions and exotic locations that added so many layers to this story.
I've already gone back to look for other books to read in this time frame although One Night with a Soundrel can be read as standalone. I hope to see more of this couple in the next book featuring Saxon's younger brother, Max. Its sure to be another 'not to be missed' book by Shelly Thacker and it'll be on my to be read list, waiting for me to find!
What a thrill to have a chance to read another outstanding historical romance by this talented author, set this time in a different period-the 1740's and taking place on land and seas from England to India along with many destinations in between.
As the story begins, 6 year old Princess Ashiana was rescued from her burning ship after her captain father was ruthlessly killed by English pirates seeking the mythological Sapphires of Kashmir. Her savior that day- her fathers dear friend, the Maharaja of Clan Ajmir. There is nothing she wouldn't do for her adopted father and family, to fit into their society, or to repay them for taking her in and providing her with this life of luxury.
Saxon D'Avenant, a duke's aristocratic second son and sea captain for the British East India Company, has been searching in vane for the gemstones that cursed first his father, now his younger brother for the better part of 10 years. His promise to his father to break the curse by uniting his one stolen gemstone to the 8 remaining sapphires has just about broken him, mentally and physically but he'll do what's needed to save his brothers life. What his sarcastic, jaded mind doesn't expect in his wildest dreams is that in coming back to India, the beautiful 'dancing girl' given to him for his pleasure will also inevitably be the one to bring him to his knees as his search for those gems continues.
This begins the sweeping saga that forces the wary, suspicious Saxon and sweet, seductive Ashiana together as they both try to do whatever it takes to get those not so mythic Sapphires for themselves and bring all 9 of them together as they are meant to be. Each wanting those stones for their own selfish purposes- prepared to do whatever it takes to get them back to where THEY think those gems belong, in the hands of THEIR own people.
From the high seas, where they form an unexpected bond, to the shipwrecked island where survival, hurt, deceit and betrayal all play their parts, Ashiana and Saxon are forever linked in their reluctant hearts and minds. Two entirely different individuals with nothing much in common but their mission, yet everything they could ever want might be found in each other, if they would only listen to those little voices in their heads. Finally rescued and taken to England, Saxon is reunited with his family, who welcome him with open arms after years apart, while vengeful foes await both he and Ashiana, ready and willing to kill for those precious gems!
This was quite an exciting, no holds barred, suspenseful book that had so many twists and turns everywhere you looked that I could barely put it down. A reminder why I love this author, how much a witty, clever and steamy historical romance can capture your heart and attention until the last wonderful page is turned. I hadn't read anything like this for so long and it was my pleasure to read about all the interesting, well developed characters, the colorful descriptions and exotic locations that added so many layers to this story.
I've already gone back to look for other books to read in this time frame although One Night with a Soundrel can be read as standalone. I hope to see more of this couple in the next book featuring Saxon's younger brother, Max. Its sure to be another 'not to be missed' book by Shelly Thacker and it'll be on my to be read list, waiting for me to find!
April 8, 2019
DON'T JUDGE THIS STORY BASED ON WHAT OTHER REVIEWERS WROTE! I DON'T REALLY GET WHY SO MANY RATED THIS A 1 STAR! PERHAPS THEY JUDGED THE CHARACTERS TOO SOON AND MIGHT I JUST SAY THE STORY WAS ABSOLUTELY FULL OF LIFE.
HERO won't endear himself to you in the beginning. He's a man filled with pride but still honorable in his own way, and he also has a conscience and he's a man who grieves. When first introduced, he's quite brutish and only wants to sate his base desires on the woman the Maharaja has gifted him. Said woman was a spy who was sent to steal his sapphire. The story revolves around 10 Sapphires that belongs to India. The Indian royalty wants it back for it is sacred while Saxon wants it merely to cure his brother of the curse hexed upon his family. Saxon and Ashiana were fighting for what they believed was right. What happens when lust turns into more than just physical needs but love? When Saxon wakes up and realised that he has been tricked by Ashiana, he's beyond furious but luckily his brother had the little thief locked behind their ship cabin. So she's stuck with him. Saxon can be stubborn and what he says always isn't what his heart means. I truly enjoyed their castaway moment when they were stranded on an island and during that time it was the climax of the story. Saxon won't trust her again, not after she lied to him twice and clearly I couldn't blame him for acting so bitter. It was a bonus for it added to the magnifying angst!
OUR HEROINE isn't a simpering miss. Half English and Half Argentinian/Portuguese (sorry I forgot that tidbit), she was taken under the Maharaja's wing when her father was killed by the British. It's no wonder she hates them and agrees to pull off the coupe of tricking the English 'ambassador' and stealing his Sapphire. If she succeeds, she will be revered and married to her beloved Rao. But, unlucky for her she was caught after the crime and hustled into Saxon's ship by his brother thus imprisoning her there. It doesn't help when Saxon blames her but his body still desires her. How could she feel such longing for the enemy's body and love what he does to her? Let him take her precious virginity? While some moments you may hate the decisions she make on behalf of the Maharaja (hurting Saxon in the process), it makes perfect sense if you were in her shoes. Her determination and bravery is what makes her attractive despite her beauty. I liked how she stood toe to toe with Saxon all the way and that she has a pet tiger that everyone is afraid of. The author created a perfect balance of wild, innocent yet stubbornly strong heroine that suited the hero.
OVERALL many might judge this quickly BECAUSE the hero aint like the cardboard alphas we read who is all sweet and romantic or plain nice. He will be MEAN, he will call the heroine a WHORE but it means he's human and he also has a HEART which helps him along the way. This story was written based on an era where men don't think much of women and women are still struggling to find their place in society. In that setting, the way the characters acted and reacted was quite reasonable. And REAL. I abhor insta love because it's mostly lust and nothing substantial. This one here builds from hate and lust to love, which was an incredible journey...a push and pull between the H/h and eventually compromise, forgiveness and acceptance.
HERO won't endear himself to you in the beginning. He's a man filled with pride but still honorable in his own way, and he also has a conscience and he's a man who grieves. When first introduced, he's quite brutish and only wants to sate his base desires on the woman the Maharaja has gifted him. Said woman was a spy who was sent to steal his sapphire. The story revolves around 10 Sapphires that belongs to India. The Indian royalty wants it back for it is sacred while Saxon wants it merely to cure his brother of the curse hexed upon his family. Saxon and Ashiana were fighting for what they believed was right. What happens when lust turns into more than just physical needs but love? When Saxon wakes up and realised that he has been tricked by Ashiana, he's beyond furious but luckily his brother had the little thief locked behind their ship cabin. So she's stuck with him. Saxon can be stubborn and what he says always isn't what his heart means. I truly enjoyed their castaway moment when they were stranded on an island and during that time it was the climax of the story. Saxon won't trust her again, not after she lied to him twice and clearly I couldn't blame him for acting so bitter. It was a bonus for it added to the magnifying angst!
OUR HEROINE isn't a simpering miss. Half English and Half Argentinian/Portuguese (sorry I forgot that tidbit), she was taken under the Maharaja's wing when her father was killed by the British. It's no wonder she hates them and agrees to pull off the coupe of tricking the English 'ambassador' and stealing his Sapphire. If she succeeds, she will be revered and married to her beloved Rao. But, unlucky for her she was caught after the crime and hustled into Saxon's ship by his brother thus imprisoning her there. It doesn't help when Saxon blames her but his body still desires her. How could she feel such longing for the enemy's body and love what he does to her? Let him take her precious virginity? While some moments you may hate the decisions she make on behalf of the Maharaja (hurting Saxon in the process), it makes perfect sense if you were in her shoes. Her determination and bravery is what makes her attractive despite her beauty. I liked how she stood toe to toe with Saxon all the way and that she has a pet tiger that everyone is afraid of. The author created a perfect balance of wild, innocent yet stubbornly strong heroine that suited the hero.
OVERALL many might judge this quickly BECAUSE the hero aint like the cardboard alphas we read who is all sweet and romantic or plain nice. He will be MEAN, he will call the heroine a WHORE but it means he's human and he also has a HEART which helps him along the way. This story was written based on an era where men don't think much of women and women are still struggling to find their place in society. In that setting, the way the characters acted and reacted was quite reasonable. And REAL. I abhor insta love because it's mostly lust and nothing substantial. This one here builds from hate and lust to love, which was an incredible journey...a push and pull between the H/h and eventually compromise, forgiveness and acceptance.
February 12, 2023
First off, let me get this out of the way...based on another review, I understand that the author has apparently extensively revised this book since it was originally published and removed problematic content (though there is one dubcon scene that comes to mind). I read the revised version.
I wish the curse had been rendered more realistically, like some sort of magical realism type thing. For me, it was hard to accept (without an eyeroll) that a whole family believed that they were literally cursed with death when one of them stole one of the 9 sapphires of Kashmir (a religious artifact) and that one of them would die if someone in the family didn't reunite all 9 gems. However, this is the backstory that motivates Saxon to spend a decade at sea searching for the other 8 sapphires to save his brother's life.
For Ashiana, she has a more interesting backstory. The daughter of an Englishwoman and a Portuguese sea captain, she is raised aboard a ship by her father after her mother dies when she is born. She ends up being raised as a princess of the Ajmir after her father is killed by English pirates when she is a child and the maharajah, his friend, basically adopts her as his daughter. So she is culturally Indian and regards the Ajmir as her family.
The two are pitted against each other when the maharajah asks her to take on a spy mission to recover the last sapphire from Saxon and bring them all back to the Ajmir, who act as guardians to the gems.
From there, this becomes a rollicking adventure tale as the two end up onboard a ship together (along with her pet tiger) initially with her as his prisoner after she managed to steal the sapphire from him. Over time, is he convinced that the lies she has told him are the truth and the two start a romance. All is far from smooth sailing with the pair as the truth eventually comes out - all while they endure countless challenges along the way from the Bay of Bengal to England and points in between.
Some elements continue to strain credibility (for me) such as
However, all of that aside, I really liked this one. Ashiana is a heroine with grit and smarts and her unique background made for a nice departure from the usual.
I wish the curse had been rendered more realistically, like some sort of magical realism type thing. For me, it was hard to accept (without an eyeroll) that a whole family believed that they were literally cursed with death when one of them stole one of the 9 sapphires of Kashmir (a religious artifact) and that one of them would die if someone in the family didn't reunite all 9 gems. However, this is the backstory that motivates Saxon to spend a decade at sea searching for the other 8 sapphires to save his brother's life.
For Ashiana, she has a more interesting backstory. The daughter of an Englishwoman and a Portuguese sea captain, she is raised aboard a ship by her father after her mother dies when she is born. She ends up being raised as a princess of the Ajmir after her father is killed by English pirates when she is a child and the maharajah, his friend, basically adopts her as his daughter. So she is culturally Indian and regards the Ajmir as her family.
The two are pitted against each other when the maharajah asks her to take on a spy mission to recover the last sapphire from Saxon and bring them all back to the Ajmir, who act as guardians to the gems.
From there, this becomes a rollicking adventure tale as the two end up onboard a ship together (along with her pet tiger) initially with her as his prisoner after she managed to steal the sapphire from him. Over time, is he convinced that the lies she has told him are the truth and the two start a romance. All is far from smooth sailing with the pair as the truth eventually comes out - all while they endure countless challenges along the way from the Bay of Bengal to England and points in between.
Some elements continue to strain credibility (for me) such as
However, all of that aside, I really liked this one. Ashiana is a heroine with grit and smarts and her unique background made for a nice departure from the usual.
March 9, 2019
English and Portuguese by birth, Ashiana was adopted into the Ajmir people in India and grew up hating the English that killed her father. When they ask her to formally embrace her Ajmir heritage by tracking down Englishman Saxon D'Avenant, retrieving the stolen Sapphire he carries (an Ajmir treasure) and killing him, Ashiana readily agrees. So, she poses as a slave girl and is "gifted" to Saxon. He's in India to find the other eight sapphires of the set so he can unite them, return them and end the curse that affects his younger brother. When Ashiana, his new slave girl, steals the sapphire, Saxon is livid at the betrayal. But at the same time, he cannot resist Ashiana. But Saxon is sure that every move she makes is a calculated deceit and that she'll do anything to keep him from those sapphires and get back to her people. But Ashiana finds her loyalty divided and she is tempted to set it all aside and spend her life with this mysterious man.
So, this had plenty of adventure and a nice, well-paced storyline. Lots of action and angst and all that. This takes place mostly in India, in the Andaman islands, but also back to London where we meet the D'Avenant family. There's murder and mayhem and all that, so that was fun. But the romance here was not particularly romantic. The big reason for that is the unapologetic rapeyness of the hero...he rapes her twice...wouldn't necessarily even call it forced seduction - she finds minimal pleasure and definitely didn't consent, so... Even the other sex scenes between them would be considered dub-con since she's technically his slave and he more or less looks at her as his personal fucktoy. He is well aware that any time he wants to have at her, he can and she is well aware that she can do nothing to stop him, so why bother? Aside from that even, I couldn't figure out what either of them found loveable about the other. I mean, the heroine thinks the hero is a rapey, thieving brute of an Englishman (and doesn't learn his honorable reasons for wanting the sapphire until almost the end of the story). And the heroine herself wasn't all that likeable either. I honestly didn't care for either of them. They hated each other (while lusting after one another) for the majority of the book and this did not translate to tender loving feelings. He thinks she's a lying, deceitful whore (his words) and she's got a case of stockholm syndrome. So although the story itself was kind of a fun read, I so did not buy into the love between these characters. Lust yes, love no.
So, this had plenty of adventure and a nice, well-paced storyline. Lots of action and angst and all that. This takes place mostly in India, in the Andaman islands, but also back to London where we meet the D'Avenant family. There's murder and mayhem and all that, so that was fun. But the romance here was not particularly romantic. The big reason for that is the unapologetic rapeyness of the hero...he rapes her twice...wouldn't necessarily even call it forced seduction - she finds minimal pleasure and definitely didn't consent, so... Even the other sex scenes between them would be considered dub-con since she's technically his slave and he more or less looks at her as his personal fucktoy. He is well aware that any time he wants to have at her, he can and she is well aware that she can do nothing to stop him, so why bother? Aside from that even, I couldn't figure out what either of them found loveable about the other. I mean, the heroine thinks the hero is a rapey, thieving brute of an Englishman (and doesn't learn his honorable reasons for wanting the sapphire until almost the end of the story). And the heroine herself wasn't all that likeable either. I honestly didn't care for either of them. They hated each other (while lusting after one another) for the majority of the book and this did not translate to tender loving feelings. He thinks she's a lying, deceitful whore (his words) and she's got a case of stockholm syndrome. So although the story itself was kind of a fun read, I so did not buy into the love between these characters. Lust yes, love no.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2022
Wow! When I first started reading this story, I wasn’t sure if I would like it, but boy, was I wrong! I loved it! It’s hard to imagine the lengths the main characters will go through in order to break a curse and an oath to keep missing jewels (Nine Sapphires of Kashmir) from falling into the wrong hands. This story includes a curse, missing jewels, honor, duty, betrayal and lastly, love! In the prologue, we meet a six-year-old Ashiana de Canto e Calda, who is half English/Portuguese. She is on her father’s ship when it is attacked by the English. The rogue English have been looking for the Nine Sapphires of Kashmir and believes Ashiana’s father knows where they are. They kill her father, but before he dies, he asks his friend, The Maharaja (head of the Rajput clan Ajmir….they are responsible for the safe keeping of the Sapphires… they live on the Indian Island of Andaman), to take Ashiana and raise her. The Maharaja claims Ashiana as his daughter and therefore she will become a Princess of the Ajmir clan.
Fast forward 15 years and, we meet Captain Saxon D’Avenant whose family owns the East India Trading Company. To honor the oath made to his dying father, Saxon, is on a mission to find the rest of the Nine Sapphires of Kashmir (His father obtained one sapphire years ago which put a curse on his family) and end the family curse. Saxon has been searching for 10 years and now has a chance to get them all back together. He is close to finding them and makes a plan to get them.
A grown Ashiana is now asked by the Ajmir clan to reclaim the missing sapphire (from Saxon) and then hide them where no one can find them. In return, she can marry the Maharaja’s son, Rao. During a banquet given by The Emperor at Daman, Ashiana is in disguise as a dancer and Saxon is one of the guests at the banquet. This is where their journey begins. Enjoy!
Fast forward 15 years and, we meet Captain Saxon D’Avenant whose family owns the East India Trading Company. To honor the oath made to his dying father, Saxon, is on a mission to find the rest of the Nine Sapphires of Kashmir (His father obtained one sapphire years ago which put a curse on his family) and end the family curse. Saxon has been searching for 10 years and now has a chance to get them all back together. He is close to finding them and makes a plan to get them.
A grown Ashiana is now asked by the Ajmir clan to reclaim the missing sapphire (from Saxon) and then hide them where no one can find them. In return, she can marry the Maharaja’s son, Rao. During a banquet given by The Emperor at Daman, Ashiana is in disguise as a dancer and Saxon is one of the guests at the banquet. This is where their journey begins. Enjoy!
April 19, 2019
The blurb is misleading giving a totally inaccurate impression of Ashiana & Saxon’s characters: “he, the powerfully sensual master who will use her for his own pleasure; she, the beautiful blue-eyed slave whose lascivious loveliness masks a dark deception”? Saxon is quite honourable, & contrary to that statement, not some sort of sex maniac/crazed man. He’s been celibate for a year! and initially blamed his attraction to Ashiana to that sad () fact. Ashiana is as innocent and wholesome as they came. Nothing “lascivious” or “dark” about her, or her intentions.
Saxon & Ashiana start off as adversaries – both of them wanting the whole set of sapphires.
The 2nd son of a wealthy English Duke, whose older brother is the feckless one, Saxon is after the rest of the sapphires in order to save his ailing younger brother from the sapphire’s curse. Ashiana accepts the task of appropriating (surely it’s not stealing when the object belongs to you in the 1st place) the stolen sapphire, one of the 9 that the Ajmir are guardians of.
Orphaned at six when her father is killed by English pirates after the sapphires in front of her eyes, Ashiana is taken in and brought up by the Ajmir maharajah – close friend to her father. Other than her looks, everything else about her is Hindi/Ajmir – she is a vegetarian, meditates and practices yoga, doesn’t speak English (but remembers a few Portuguese swear words).
An enemies to lovers story, with a touch of Robinson Crusoe (shipwrecked on an island), vendettas, cursed sapphires, pet tiger – this is an amazing and well written story. Would have enjoyed it more if they had been a little less sex, a few scenes of which felt unnecessary.
Saxon & Ashiana start off as adversaries – both of them wanting the whole set of sapphires.
The 2nd son of a wealthy English Duke, whose older brother is the feckless one, Saxon is after the rest of the sapphires in order to save his ailing younger brother from the sapphire’s curse. Ashiana accepts the task of appropriating (surely it’s not stealing when the object belongs to you in the 1st place) the stolen sapphire, one of the 9 that the Ajmir are guardians of.
Orphaned at six when her father is killed by English pirates after the sapphires in front of her eyes, Ashiana is taken in and brought up by the Ajmir maharajah – close friend to her father. Other than her looks, everything else about her is Hindi/Ajmir – she is a vegetarian, meditates and practices yoga, doesn’t speak English (but remembers a few Portuguese swear words).
An enemies to lovers story, with a touch of Robinson Crusoe (shipwrecked on an island), vendettas, cursed sapphires, pet tiger – this is an amazing and well written story. Would have enjoyed it more if they had been a little less sex, a few scenes of which felt unnecessary.
September 17, 2022
I read the next book in the series and was pleasantly surprised. Enjoyed it and decided to go back to Saxton and Ashiana's story.
The story was so bad. Ashiana in an attempt to work as a secret agent disguises herself as a harem girl and offers herself to Saxton. Subsequently, she is raped by Saxton. There was no chemistry, no romance nothing. Saxton considers himself wronged and is brutal with her. I don't even know how this is a romance and what logic there is for Ashiana to fall in love with Saxton. Later they develop some sort of a relation and then he rapes her again!!
And she loves him?? Seems more like stockholm syndrome
Did not enjoy this book at all and needless to say I will not be going back for more of this series
The story was so bad. Ashiana in an attempt to work as a secret agent disguises herself as a harem girl and offers herself to Saxton. Subsequently, she is raped by Saxton. There was no chemistry, no romance nothing. Saxton considers himself wronged and is brutal with her. I don't even know how this is a romance and what logic there is for Ashiana to fall in love with Saxton. Later they develop some sort of a relation and then he rapes her again!!
And she loves him?? Seems more like stockholm syndrome
Did not enjoy this book at all and needless to say I will not be going back for more of this series
August 14, 2023
เป็นแนว historical romance ที่แปลกใหม่ตรงที่ดำเนินเรื่องบางส่วนในแถบอินเดีย (มันอาจมีอีกหลายเรื่องแหละแต่ปกติเราไม่ค่อยเจอ) นางเอกเป็นลูกครึ่งอังกฤษ-โปรตุเกสที่โตมาในแคว้นแถวอินเดียเลยเป็นฝรั่งที่สมาทานวัฒนธรรมฮินดู เกลียดชาวอังกฤษเพราะพ่อโดนโจรสลัดอังกฤษฆ่าตาย ช่วงต้นเรื่องไปจนถึงช่วงติดเกาะรู้สึกมันมีความเป็น bodice ripper สูงไปหน่อยจนเราอ่านแล้วไม่ค่อยจอย (อีโรติกเกิน 5555) พระเอกนางเอกก็รักกันง่ายมากทั้งๆ ที่ด้วยแบ็กกราวด์ของทั้งสองฝ่ายแล้วไม่น่ารักกันง่ายขนาดนี้ แต่เนื้อเรื่องช่วงหลังออกจากเกาะเป็นต้นไปสนุกดี
August 1, 2021
โอโห้ อ่านละเหนื่อยค่ะ ไม่เข้าใจกันสักที ไม่พูดกัน เอาแต่ทะเลาะ แล้วก็คิดเองเออเองกันเก่งละเกิน คิดวกวน มีแต่บทความคิดวนไปวนมา ละพระนางเข้าใจผิดกันจนบทสุดท้าย อุปสรรคก็เยอะ รักกันแบบฟันฝ่าไปก็ได้นะบางที เหนื่อยอะ คนอ่านเนี่ยอ่านไปถอนหายใจไปเฮือก ๆ
สนุกนะคะ ลุ้นดี ลุ้นว่าเมื่อไหร่จะเข้าใจกันซะที55555 บทจะจบก็คือเข้าใจกันง่ายดาย
ปล. พระเอกหึงเก่ง แต่หึงแล้วไง หึงแล้วเอาแต่โมโห ทำตัวงี่เง่าเหมือนเดิม เห้อออ
สนุกนะคะ ลุ้นดี ลุ้นว่าเมื่อไหร่จะเข้าใจกันซะที55555 บทจะจบก็คือเข้าใจกันง่ายดาย
ปล. พระเอกหึงเก่ง แต่หึงแล้วไง หึงแล้วเอาแต่โมโห ทำตัวงี่เง่าเหมือนเดิม เห้อออ
June 3, 2023
Disappointing
This book was difficult to follow, and the plot twists bordered on tedious. I normally read a book this size in about a day. This one took me over a week! I kept putting it down because of the aforementioned issues. Disappointing.
This book was difficult to follow, and the plot twists bordered on tedious. I normally read a book this size in about a day. This one took me over a week! I kept putting it down because of the aforementioned issues. Disappointing.
January 18, 2025
Love it
It's my favorite so far of this series. I was so hard to put down this book once I started. It was well written and a page turner. The twist and turns this story took keeps you lost in the story.
It's my favorite so far of this series. I was so hard to put down this book once I started. It was well written and a page turner. The twist and turns this story took keeps you lost in the story.
December 5, 2021
one Night with a Scoundrel
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I wondered how Ashiana and Saxon would ever trust each other. Especially with her being a princess.
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I wondered how Ashiana and Saxon would ever trust each other. Especially with her being a princess.
June 27, 2022
Obsessed Obsessed OBESSSEDDDDD!!!!
July 25, 2020
This is a gripping and fascinating story that is full of intrigue, romance and surprises. After pirates kill Ashiana's father, the Maharaja who came to their aid adopted her. She grew up Hindu, but was not fully accepted by the people. One night he asks her to take on a very important task, to get the sapphire that was stolen by an English man and reunite all nine of the sapphires, then hide them. It was Saxon's father who stole the sapphire, and put a curse on the family. On his deathbed, Saxon's father makes him promise to get the other 8 sapphires and end the curse. Ashiana's plan to get the sapphire from Saxton didn't work out the way anyone thought it would. She ends up on his ship, and in his bed. She refuses to tell him the whereabouts of the 8 sapphires, he refuses to tell her why he needs them. It's a story that will captivate you and thrill you.
December 30, 2021
3 1/2 stars almost (not quite) rounded to 4. I'm a fan of Shelly Thacker and she's written better books. But even average Thacker book is better than a lot of what's out there currently.
***** BTW, there's a reason for the wide-ranging reviews, explained below *****.
This is a review of the updated version of this book, which was originally published in 1993. In 2020 Thacker completely re-wrote it, calling it"One Night With a Scoundrel" and including it in an anthology. I vaguely remember flipping through the OG "Silver and Sapphires" years ago and wasn't into it, as the hero was overly alpha and forced himself on the heroine repeatedly. This reworking is much better. If you're a Shelly Thacker fan, you'll be glad to see that her signature mix of fast-paced adventure and romance are still evident here, especially in the first half of the story. The insights into the heroine's culture are also interesting. The story this time around is much more of an even give-and-take between H/h, and you believe in her attraction to him. I thought their early love scenes in particular were nicely steamy without being misogynistic. (One of the scenes on the boat is one of the hottest scenes I've read in a long time.)
Now onto the negatives: There are the typical bodice-ripper tropes that made me roll my eyes (the h faints during a play because she's sick but she and H have a love scene in the carriage on the way home; the h/H find time to have sex when he's escaping from the enemy under the cover of night and is trying to sneak her out with him). An awkward culture-clash is still the elephant in the room, where you sometimes wonder if there's an underlying message that the heroine must become Europeanized to find her HEA. The heroine makes salient points about Western culture pillaging other cultures for reasons of greed and H diverts her argument. I found the whole premise of H needing the sapphires to break his family's curse flimsy and nonsensical, but I guess it's the best idea the author could come up with to differentiate him from the White marauders h has encountered in her childhood.
I do have to mention that there is still a rapey scene when the H/h are marooned together. The h wants to take it slow and tries to move away but the H isn't having it, using his strength to his advantage, and getting off on it. Later on he justifies his actions, saying that it wasn't revenge sex, but it really was--he wanted to demonstrate the power he had over her when he found out she was betrothed to another. He could have easily impregnated her, with no intention at that point of marrying her; in fact, he didn't trust her. I know there are women who enjoy a strength/power imbalance in loves scenes, and I'm not trying to moralize. But it's such a common theme in real life when men encounter women who don't have the physical or social power that they do that it troubles me. So I think this scene could have been modified or left out altogether.
My last criticism has to do with language. Shelly Thacker's Brits sound like late-1800 or early 1900 Americans to me. I'm not sure about the etymology of a term like "stow it", but "notch on a bedpost" was not common slang used by the British in the early 1800s. "Leave off" and "conquest" would have been more appropriate.
Still, if you like fast-paced escapism, there are worse ways to spend a lazy Saturday. And this version of the book is much better than the OG.
***** BTW, there's a reason for the wide-ranging reviews, explained below *****.
This is a review of the updated version of this book, which was originally published in 1993. In 2020 Thacker completely re-wrote it, calling it"One Night With a Scoundrel" and including it in an anthology. I vaguely remember flipping through the OG "Silver and Sapphires" years ago and wasn't into it, as the hero was overly alpha and forced himself on the heroine repeatedly. This reworking is much better. If you're a Shelly Thacker fan, you'll be glad to see that her signature mix of fast-paced adventure and romance are still evident here, especially in the first half of the story. The insights into the heroine's culture are also interesting. The story this time around is much more of an even give-and-take between H/h, and you believe in her attraction to him. I thought their early love scenes in particular were nicely steamy without being misogynistic. (One of the scenes on the boat is one of the hottest scenes I've read in a long time.)
Now onto the negatives: There are the typical bodice-ripper tropes that made me roll my eyes (the h faints during a play because she's sick but she and H have a love scene in the carriage on the way home; the h/H find time to have sex when he's escaping from the enemy under the cover of night and is trying to sneak her out with him). An awkward culture-clash is still the elephant in the room, where you sometimes wonder if there's an underlying message that the heroine must become Europeanized to find her HEA. The heroine makes salient points about Western culture pillaging other cultures for reasons of greed and H diverts her argument. I found the whole premise of H needing the sapphires to break his family's curse flimsy and nonsensical, but I guess it's the best idea the author could come up with to differentiate him from the White marauders h has encountered in her childhood.
I do have to mention that there is still a rapey scene when the H/h are marooned together. The h wants to take it slow and tries to move away but the H isn't having it, using his strength to his advantage, and getting off on it. Later on he justifies his actions, saying that it wasn't revenge sex, but it really was--he wanted to demonstrate the power he had over her when he found out she was betrothed to another. He could have easily impregnated her, with no intention at that point of marrying her; in fact, he didn't trust her. I know there are women who enjoy a strength/power imbalance in loves scenes, and I'm not trying to moralize. But it's such a common theme in real life when men encounter women who don't have the physical or social power that they do that it troubles me. So I think this scene could have been modified or left out altogether.
My last criticism has to do with language. Shelly Thacker's Brits sound like late-1800 or early 1900 Americans to me. I'm not sure about the etymology of a term like "stow it", but "notch on a bedpost" was not common slang used by the British in the early 1800s. "Leave off" and "conquest" would have been more appropriate.
Still, if you like fast-paced escapism, there are worse ways to spend a lazy Saturday. And this version of the book is much better than the OG.
July 20, 2020
This was quite the surprise. I nearly wrote this story off but kept at it and it quickly became one of my favorite. Such a great love story with many ups and downs.
January 21, 2020
When her father is killed by English pirates looking for the Sapphires of Kashmir, 6 year old Ashiana, is rescued by her father's friend, the Maharaja of Kashmir. She is raised as his daughter, a princess in the household. Years have passed and others have come looking for the sapphires, but when a ruthless Englishman comes looking, Ashiana is asked to help defend them. This Englishman has one of the sapphires and is trying to acquire the rest of them. Many years ago, his father stole that one that is currently in his possession. Ashiana is tasked with getting the sapphire back from him and reuniting it with the other Sapphires of Kashmir. Knowing that she has never really been accepted by her new family because of her English blood, Ashiana accepts this challenge, hoping that it will finally give the others a reason to accept her.
Saxon is on a mission to get the rest of the sapphires as he knows that is the reason his brother was stricken with an illness was because of the curse on the sapphires. If he can only reunite them, the curse should be lifted. When he learns that the harem woman, that he is to be given, once lived in Kashmir, he decides to take advantage of their evening together to see what she knows about the sapphires. She claims to know nothing about them, but he later wakes up to find out that he had been drugged and the sapphire that was once in his possession is now gone.
Through dumb luck, he finds Ashiana on his ship and he plans to take her as he continues his search. He didn't count on falling for her. But when he learns there is more to the story than what he thought, what will happen to their budding romance?
Please be aware that this story was previously published in 1993. It was titled Silver and Sapphires and was part of the D'Avenant Brothers Series. The story has been revised, although the premiss of the story is still the same. Although I had read the original version, it was so long ago, I didn't remember any of it.
I loved Ashiana and Saxon's story!! I felt sorry for Ashiana and that she had never really felt accepted by her adopted people. But she is finally getting a chance to prove her worth in the eyes of those that don't accept her by getting the sapphires reunited. Too bad that Saxon gets in her way. But he has his own reasons for needing them. I loved all the bantering between these two and I was laughing out loud throughout the story. I'm so glad that I took the chance of rereading a story that I'd already read (I don't normally do that), as it was a throughly enjoyable read. I can't wait to read Saxon's brother's story!!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Saxon is on a mission to get the rest of the sapphires as he knows that is the reason his brother was stricken with an illness was because of the curse on the sapphires. If he can only reunite them, the curse should be lifted. When he learns that the harem woman, that he is to be given, once lived in Kashmir, he decides to take advantage of their evening together to see what she knows about the sapphires. She claims to know nothing about them, but he later wakes up to find out that he had been drugged and the sapphire that was once in his possession is now gone.
Through dumb luck, he finds Ashiana on his ship and he plans to take her as he continues his search. He didn't count on falling for her. But when he learns there is more to the story than what he thought, what will happen to their budding romance?
Please be aware that this story was previously published in 1993. It was titled Silver and Sapphires and was part of the D'Avenant Brothers Series. The story has been revised, although the premiss of the story is still the same. Although I had read the original version, it was so long ago, I didn't remember any of it.
I loved Ashiana and Saxon's story!! I felt sorry for Ashiana and that she had never really felt accepted by her adopted people. But she is finally getting a chance to prove her worth in the eyes of those that don't accept her by getting the sapphires reunited. Too bad that Saxon gets in her way. But he has his own reasons for needing them. I loved all the bantering between these two and I was laughing out loud throughout the story. I'm so glad that I took the chance of rereading a story that I'd already read (I don't normally do that), as it was a throughly enjoyable read. I can't wait to read Saxon's brother's story!!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2020
Very interesting story
January 21, 2020
Such a different story. The beginning gives us separate stories on each one. The way each delves into their lives is heart breaking and you feel their sorrow.
I must admit I didn't care for either of them in the beginning. They each had their own motives and I am not a fan of secrets. The h more than the H manipulative the situation. There isn't romance until the last 1/4 of the story. The H made a promise to his deceased wife and he seemed to forget it immediately. I would have liked him more if he hadn't spoken of his undying love and promises.
There is a lot of lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 at least, not erotic.
The ending was amazing and I really got into the story and felt a connection to them. When they started to be honest with each other the story meshed.
We have a nasty villain, a lot of suspense and twists, romance near the end, interesting secondary character's. The h is smart and creative and can take care of herself. The H we discover is loyal and will do anything for his family.
This is my first story in the series, and I wasn't lost, so is a stand alone. This author writes so vividly that you swear you could feel the heat of the island and the smells. I felt I was experiencing what they were experiencing.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance, steam, suspense and a unique story line.
I received an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own and voluntarily given. (ljb)
I must admit I didn't care for either of them in the beginning. They each had their own motives and I am not a fan of secrets. The h more than the H manipulative the situation. There isn't romance until the last 1/4 of the story. The H made a promise to his deceased wife and he seemed to forget it immediately. I would have liked him more if he hadn't spoken of his undying love and promises.
There is a lot of lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 at least, not erotic.
The ending was amazing and I really got into the story and felt a connection to them. When they started to be honest with each other the story meshed.
We have a nasty villain, a lot of suspense and twists, romance near the end, interesting secondary character's. The h is smart and creative and can take care of herself. The H we discover is loyal and will do anything for his family.
This is my first story in the series, and I wasn't lost, so is a stand alone. This author writes so vividly that you swear you could feel the heat of the island and the smells. I felt I was experiencing what they were experiencing.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance, steam, suspense and a unique story line.
I received an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own and voluntarily given. (ljb)
January 23, 2020
Ashiana de Canto e Calda father was killed and he asked his good friend the Maharaja to raise his daughter and he adopted her and she became the daughter of the Maharaja of the Ajmir Clan. She is half English, but she has a deep hatred for the English since they murdered her father. Princess Ashiana will do anything for her adoptive family and she sets out to reclaim a priceless jewel stolen from her family by notorious English smuggler the Duke of Silverton Lord Saxon D'Avenant father. When he stole a sacred sapphire from the clan of Ajmir and brought a curse down on the family and Saxon needs all nine jewels to break the curse and save his youngest brother Max.
She disguises herself as a hareem girl to seduce the Englishman to recover the sapphire jewel and return it to the Ajmir, but fate intervenes and these two are set on a grand adventure across the seas. He thinks she’s a thief and harem girl and she knows he’s an arrogant English Captain she must not fall for in order to keep all the jewels safe. A great book has it all it’s filled with passion, adventure, sacrifice, betrayal, heartache, and a pet tiger. An excellent story I loved and I voluntarily wrote a review.
She disguises herself as a hareem girl to seduce the Englishman to recover the sapphire jewel and return it to the Ajmir, but fate intervenes and these two are set on a grand adventure across the seas. He thinks she’s a thief and harem girl and she knows he’s an arrogant English Captain she must not fall for in order to keep all the jewels safe. A great book has it all it’s filled with passion, adventure, sacrifice, betrayal, heartache, and a pet tiger. An excellent story I loved and I voluntarily wrote a review.
January 21, 2020
Wow, what an adventure! From start to finish, this story is filled with action and quite a few times I held my breath, wondering what was going to happen next. Very well written with characters so real, you feel every one of their emotions.
Ashiana is caught between two worlds, knowing that she is half English but prefers to follow the Hindi customs of her adoptive father, the Maharaja. When she's told to act as a spy to try to get the 9th missing blue sapphire from notorious English smuggler Saxon D’Avenant, she embarks on an adventure that she had no idea she'd ever be on!! Saxon doesn't trust easily but falls for Ashiana and theirs is a passion so great, when he learns of her duplicity, your heart just breaks for both of them.
From the exotic islands of India to the cold and foggy weather in England, Ashiana and Saxon's story is one filled with danger, enemies, lies and secrets, as well as the importance of family and hope and finding out, in Ashiana's case, where she truly belongs.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Ashiana is caught between two worlds, knowing that she is half English but prefers to follow the Hindi customs of her adoptive father, the Maharaja. When she's told to act as a spy to try to get the 9th missing blue sapphire from notorious English smuggler Saxon D’Avenant, she embarks on an adventure that she had no idea she'd ever be on!! Saxon doesn't trust easily but falls for Ashiana and theirs is a passion so great, when he learns of her duplicity, your heart just breaks for both of them.
From the exotic islands of India to the cold and foggy weather in England, Ashiana and Saxon's story is one filled with danger, enemies, lies and secrets, as well as the importance of family and hope and finding out, in Ashiana's case, where she truly belongs.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 23, 2020
Saxon & Ashiana's story was a wonderful journey into steamy tropical nights, evil kidnappers, revenge and love...and a tiger.
Shelly Thacker does a great job drawing the reader from lush tropical islands, into London's society and shipboard adventures, skillfully weaving the love story of Saxon and Princess Ashiana.
Ashiana's adoptive family convinces her that Englishman Saxon has stolen one of a legendary set of jewels from them, and she is sent to spy on and assassinate him to protect their tribe from running away to hide the jewels again and again. Saxon is unwillingly bewitched by Ashiana, but as bits of both their secrets come to light piece by piece, the pair are faced with dangers from all directions, as well as their mistrust of each other.
When faced with making ultimate sacrifices to save each other, true love does finally triumph in a quite unexpected manner.
I received a copy of this in return for an honest review, and I'm happy to say that I loved this adventure, and I loved the HEA most of all!
Shelly Thacker does a great job drawing the reader from lush tropical islands, into London's society and shipboard adventures, skillfully weaving the love story of Saxon and Princess Ashiana.
Ashiana's adoptive family convinces her that Englishman Saxon has stolen one of a legendary set of jewels from them, and she is sent to spy on and assassinate him to protect their tribe from running away to hide the jewels again and again. Saxon is unwillingly bewitched by Ashiana, but as bits of both their secrets come to light piece by piece, the pair are faced with dangers from all directions, as well as their mistrust of each other.
When faced with making ultimate sacrifices to save each other, true love does finally triumph in a quite unexpected manner.
I received a copy of this in return for an honest review, and I'm happy to say that I loved this adventure, and I loved the HEA most of all!
January 15, 2020
Ashiana and Saxon had a long journey to their happiness. They braved so many things to be together. Ashiana is white, but lives with her adopted people. When they ask where her loyalties lie, she sides with them. They send her recover and reunite some gems that are very important to their people. Saxon isn't looking for the rest of the gems to steal them, he is trying to save his brother. Ashiana might think all English are greedy thieves, but Saxon is very honorable. Once they face many dangers together, they just might find that they have a strong love. She doesn't feel she can live in England, it is too cold. Saxon has someone trying to kill those close to him and he doesn't want to put one more person's life in jeopardy. Can they find some kind of compromise so they can be together?
January 22, 2020
This is a story of a smuggler and an adopted princess, with all the components of a swashbuckling yarn.
Saxon D’Avenant is the second son of a duke andAshisna is the aforementioned “ princess” who is really the daughter of a Portuguese sea captain killed in sea battle. The story revolves are a stolen sapphire that is part of a legendary set of nine. Sax seeks to return it but Ashiana is sent disguised as a harem dancing girl to retrieve from him by assasination.
Circumstances arise, love conquers all and everything is sorted out in the end.
I did not realize this was part of a series and I also found excessive use if if Hindi and translations distracting To the flow of the story.
However, I did enjoy the fast paced read.
I received an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Saxon D’Avenant is the second son of a duke andAshisna is the aforementioned “ princess” who is really the daughter of a Portuguese sea captain killed in sea battle. The story revolves are a stolen sapphire that is part of a legendary set of nine. Sax seeks to return it but Ashiana is sent disguised as a harem dancing girl to retrieve from him by assasination.
Circumstances arise, love conquers all and everything is sorted out in the end.
I did not realize this was part of a series and I also found excessive use if if Hindi and translations distracting To the flow of the story.
However, I did enjoy the fast paced read.
I received an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2020
An adventure from beginning to end that takes you through many locals and assorted characters that does not stop until the last page.
This is the story of a woman raised by the Maharaja of the Ajmir Clan after her parents had died is tasked to help obtain a stolen jewel by the English. Lord Saxon's late father had stolen that jewel and their family had been cursed ever since. He has been trying to return it to it's owner and the other stones that make up the set for years and has barely been able to avoid death.
As these two come together, not all is as it seems and the two have a long tumultuous journey to find their HEA.
Prepare to settle down as you get lost in the pages of this great story!
This is the story of a woman raised by the Maharaja of the Ajmir Clan after her parents had died is tasked to help obtain a stolen jewel by the English. Lord Saxon's late father had stolen that jewel and their family had been cursed ever since. He has been trying to return it to it's owner and the other stones that make up the set for years and has barely been able to avoid death.
As these two come together, not all is as it seems and the two have a long tumultuous journey to find their HEA.
Prepare to settle down as you get lost in the pages of this great story!
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