Salvation

Corsets and Carriages #3

by Carla Susan Smith

“I will not be a wife in name only.”

Rian Connor’s proposal of marriage should have been the happiest moment of Catherine Davenport’s life. He is her savior, her tutor in the ways of flirtation, the man she wants for her lover. But two impediments bar the way: the vicious assault that may have ruined her ability to enjoy any man’s touch; and the vindictive woman who will stop at nothing to regain Rian’s affection.

“There can be no turning back once you have given yourself to me.”

One exquisite night of completely mutual pleasure proves to Catherine that with Rian, the physical side of their union will bring only joy. But even her new husband cannot protect her from the diabolical scheming of his former mistress. Delivered into the hands of the madman who once delighted in tormenting her, Catherine is swept back to the place where it all began. And this time, the price could be her future with the man she is finally free to love.

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 13, 2018

About the author

Born in England a very long time ago, I now call South Carolina home where I live with my wonderfully supportive family, who have come to learn that meeting deadlines translates to pizza for dinner! When not writing, I’m just like everyone else, trolling the internet looking for recipes (I love rhubarb) checking out cute animal videos (who knew baby owls were so adorable?) and trying to get through my never shrinking stack of to-be-read books!

I would love to hear from you. Feel free to contact me through my website: carlasmithauthor.com

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll start off by saying this book does have a happily ever after but oh my what a totally wild ride to get there. This is the third and final book in the Corsets and Carriages series. I suggest you read the other two books in the series before this to get the full back story. Catherine is slowly regaining her memory after she was beaten by her cousin. She escaped with her life barely intact. Catherine Davenport and Rian Connor are reconciled now and she is seeing her self esteem soar as she regains her confidence. One that is not so happy with this is the evil one, Isabel, Rian's former lady. She plots an evil plan to get Catherine back to her abuser, her cousin Phillip but Catherine's husband Rian will do anything to get her back even at the risk of his own life.
Pub Date 13 Feb 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books. All opinions expressed are my own.

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this was a good read , the characters were believable and I really enjoyed the dialogue between the two mains .
It would have been better if I’d read the previous books in the series, but that’s my problem and no reflection on the story which was enjoyable and worth the read
I gave an honest review on an Arc copy of this book .

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great conclusion to the Corsets and Carriages trilogy!
I was really into the saga, and felt the H/h's emotional highs and lows, in addition to enjoying the twists and turns throughout the story...especially the totally unexpected ones.
Dammit Carla, you've done it again! Don't you ever stop writing!
5 stars!

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Salvation by Carla Susan Smith is the last book in the Corsets and Carriages Trilogy. I was looking forward to the end of the trilogy to see what would happen to Rian and Catherine and whether they would come together or be torn apart by the separate pasts. Unfortunately I was a little disappointed when it came to the end because there were still secrets the Rian was keeping. Although the one he was keeping about his dead wife was revealed to his brother because of a similar situation that presents itself. This last part of the trilogy to me seemed to be predictable. Salvation picks up where Resolve leaves off with Catherine hurting from the betrayal she she believes Rian has committed with Isabel. Rian stays away letting Catherine meet with her childhood friend to hoping she will pick him. When he returns Catherine won't see him while she is staying at Pelham a neighboring estate owned by Felicity's parents. Catherine finally decides it's time to talk to Rian about what happened so she goes to Oakhaven while Rian is there alone and they end up making love and getting married and all is well until an invitation for a ball to be held in their honor by his former mistress Isabel. Isabel of course has other plans that only she and her man and Catherine's attacker know about, that take place during the ball and the reason for it in the first place. Isabel unfortunately doesn't know how perverted the man who attacked Catherine is and thinking that once she is out of the way Rian will come back to Isabel. The plan is set and executed. Isabel's man is torn whether to go through with the plan once he takes Catherine away and still he hands her over. Then he goes to Rian and Liam to make a deal so save Isabel and revealing a secret to them, because he knows that Isabel doesn't know the extent of the personality of Catherine's attacker. With the deal made Rian goes with Isabel's man to the house Catherine is being kept but Liam goes to Isabel's house to confront her and tell her to leave England because to the consequences to Felicity when Catherine was taken. Rian comes to Catherine's rescue only to be captured and threatened with watching what will happen to his wife while he watches. Catherine tries to keep calm knowing that Rian will come save her. As all of her captors evils is revealed to Rian and Catherine a plan develops to help rescue them. After Rian gets free and is fighting with the attacker a shot is fired. After everyone is safe and back at Oakhaven Catherine decides that separate rooms would be best until she comes to Rian one night to talk about how she thinks he feels about what happened to her bringing them back together. I kept waiting for the new secret that Rian was keeping from everyone to be revealed but it wasn't only his promise to himself to tell her everything later and keep no more secrets from her.

[Angel Hatfield · Rating 3 out of 5]

Emily had been like a mother to Catherine and come to stay at Pelham Manor, Emily asked her if she would see Rian. Catherine admitted she wasn’t sure she was ready to see him. Rian had returned to Oakhaven three weeks ago and the very next day after his return he had called on Catherine for the first time. For a week Rian had trieds to see Catherine but she had refused. Than Rian stopped coming. Now it had almost been two weeks and emily advised Catherine if she didn’t want anything from Rian she needed to be kind and let him go. But with tears in her eyes Catherine said he is everything she wanted. But catherine didn’t know how to tell rian how she felt. Catherine was cautious as she had lost a lot of her past due to amnesia. Felicity was Rian’s sister in law and Catherine’s best friend. Catherine would never forget the ecstasy of rians kiss or the humiliation of finding him practically in bed with his former mistress- Isabel the next morning. Catherine was now stronger since the attack that had taken her memory, both physically and mentally. Catherine finally gets to Oakhaven and lets Rian know how she feels. Then Rian and catherine make love and end up married. There is an invitation for a ball in Rian and Catherine’s honor being held by his ex mistress Isabel. But Isabel has other plans that only she and her man and Catherine’s attacker know about. Catherine’s attacker was Isabel’s cousin Philip. Isabel believes once Catherine is out of the way Rrian will come back to her. Then the man with Isabel takes Catherine and turns her back over to Philip, but then he goes to Rian and his brother Liam to make a deal to save Catherine. Liam goes and tell Isabel to leave England. Rian goes to rescue Catherine and gets captured.
I had mixed feelings about this book. I do advise you to read this series in order so all makes sense to you and falls into place correctly. I didn’t like that Rian was still keeping secrets. This made the ending seem rushed and not complete to me. Also a few other things added to this. This seemed a little predictable to me. There was a lot of violence and a lot of it was centered on women but that happened in that time frame. This was an easy read for the most part but the violence was gritty. The plot was good and the pace was fast. There was a lot of drama and emotion. I hated Isabel but I am sure we were suppose to. This seemed a bit convenient for me Philip being Catherines attacker and also Isabel's cousin. This was definitely darker than ,most romances I have read. As I said I have mixed feelings on this book.

[AnnMarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Salvation is the third book in the Corsets and Carriages series by Carla Susan Smith. You really should read the first two books before this one to have a real understanding of just how much our heroine Catherine Davenport has gone through.

In this book, Catherine realises that she is in love with Rian Connor and when he proposes she would like nothing more than to accept. BUT two things are holding her back, first of all, she needs to find out why she found him nearly naked in his ex-mistress' bedroom. Secondly, after what she has been through she doesn't know if she can have an intimate relationship with him (or any man) and won't trap him into marriage if she can't satisfy him.

Rian shows her just how well she can satisfy him and visa versa, and he manages to convince her that what happened with his mistress was absolutely out of his control. Sounds silly, but read the book and you will understand. Isabel is one of the evilest villains I have come across in a book, and between her and Catherine's depraved uncle, the happiness that Rian and Catherine could finally have, indeed Catherine's life itself, is very much in danger. How much can one woman endure!

This story from the very first book to this one has been amazing to read. I have felt so much for poor Catherine and wanted nothing more to see her get her happy ending in this book. I also enjoyed reading more about Liam (Rian's brother) and his wife, there were some very emotional moments for that couple as well.

I will admit that I was disappointed with the ending with regards Liam's secret, and Isabel's punishment. I felt like the story ended with things left hanging and that there might be another book in this series. There isn't going to be one, so I am forever left wondering how Catherine is truly having a happy ending when there are still things that could cause her and Liam heartache. Maybe Isabel will have her own series where my questions are answered? Who knows? But for now, I do feel a little let down with the way this series ended.

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

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
This is the third part of the trilogy & follows on from the second part. Catherine has been avoiding Rian but at last takes the step of confronting him. Rian Connor’s proposal of marriage should have been the happiest moment of Catherine Davenport’s life. One exquisite night of completely mutual pleasure proves to Catherine that with Rian, the physical side of their union will bring only joy. But even her new husband cannot protect her from the diabolical scheming of his former mistress, Isabel Howard who arranges for Catherine to be delivered into the hands of her cousin Philip who abused her & so Catherine is swept back to the place where it all began.
I read this final instalment immediately after reading Resolve, I feel this trilogy is best read one after the other as it’s very much like the trilogy is one book split into three parts & anyone reading this book would be somewhat lost as to what had happened previously, so not a stand-alone book. I thoroughly enjoyed the series even though there is quite a lot of violence especially towards women, which didn’t make parts of the book easy reading but the setting is another era where women were very often demeaned & abused. Catherine & Rian so deserved their HEA but the road was very rocky.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Krys · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this IS one of those stories where you have to have read the other stories in the series, otherwise, this one will not make sense to you.

Salvation more or less picks up where book two leaves off. And just as with the prior stories, the author manages to seamlessly weave together several different points of view, as well as story-lines in a way that not only makes sense, but keeps the reader interested.

This was the epic conclusion that I had been hoping for! It tied up all the loose ends that had been left within the first two books, while still moving the relationships between the characters forward, and showing how they have grown, both as friends, and as family since we first met them.

The one thing that I wish would have been different is the ending as it pertains to Isabel. I felt as though after everything she had done, her punishment should have been more severe. I think it speaks volumes about the character of the brothers that they let her go as they did. Especially Liam.

I believe this story will appeal to those who enjoy slightly unconventional historical romance novels. I would definitely read more from this author!

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

[L.G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I originally discovered Ms. Smith through her smart and sexy Vampire's Promise series. So when I was offered advance reader's copies of her new historical serial, Corsets & Carriages, I jumped at the chance to read all three books. In order to enjoy Salvation to its fullest, you need to read the two prior books in the order that they were released. I read them all back-to-back for the full effect. As you would expect, all the storylines come to a head in this final installment. Salvation begins where Resolve left off and steadily picks up steam until you have to read it to the end without stopping. Nothing is smooth on the road to love and happily ever after for Catherine and Rian, and as a reader, I wanted to jump on the pages to defend them at every turn against the evil, Isabel. She takes her truly evil and selfish scheme to rip them apart to new heights in the conclusion of Corsets & Carriages. I'm not a big historical romance reader, but I really enjoyed a change of pace and immersing myself in Catherine and Rian's version of Regency England. Catherine is a delightful combination of innocence and strength, while Rian is dashing and swoonworthy. Their love is hard-won and well-deserved. Corsets & Carriages is a story told in three parts, so buy them all, sit down with your favorite beverage, and enjoy the carriage ride.

[Claire · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received Salvation as part of a Goodreads giveaway.

Courted by the suave and dashing Rian Connor, Catherine Davenport is slowly won over by his charm, good looks, and kind heart, despite the darkness of her past. For his part, Rian is thrilled to leave his own past sadnesses behind with the sensitive, beautiful Catherine, and to begin a happy life similar to that of his brother Liam and his new bride. Their marriage represents a new beginning for both of them, but it soon becomes apparent that forces are afoot to not only tear them apart, but to do Catherine active harm, as figures from both Rian's and Catherine's pasts scheme to end their promising young marriage.

I found the structure interesting, as a lot of the romance happens up front, while the "final" confrontation is actually a substantial portion of the book. It's also a substantially darker book than most romances, and I appreciate that the author didn't shy away from that side of things. The villains, however, seemed a bit cartoonishly evil, especially given that they were working together. It seemed a bit too convenient. Entertaining enough, but not particularly memorable for me.

[SH · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in the series “Corsets and Carriages” is as equally dramatic as the first two books, with Catherine Davenport eventually confronting Rian Connor about her feelings for him. Rian proposes marriage to her and all appears to be going gloriously for the couple. However, Rian’s former mistress Isabel Howard, is truly a woman scorned and will not let all end well for the couple. What follows is quite confronting as Isabel instigates the return of Catherine’s cousin, Philip, the man who was responsible for her abuse in the first book.
Whilst I initially lamented that this story was told in three parts (mainly as I couldn’t wait for the next book to become available), I know believe that this has meant that the storyline and its characters could be fully explored. Each book in the series is different in its emphasis with “Salvation” finishing with the possibility of another book in the series. I can only hope for more from this author.
I received an advanced review copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rian's marriage proposal should have been the happiest moment of Catherine's life. He was her savior, her teacher in the ways of flirtation, and the man she desired for her lover. But two hiccups stand the way: the vicious assault Catherine endured that may have ruined her ability to enjoy any man’s touch; and the vindictive former lover who will stop at nothing to regain Rian’s affection.

One euphoric night of complete pleasure proves to Catherine the physical side of her union with Rian will bring only joy. However, her new husband cannot protect her from the villainous scheming of his former mistress. Isabell found the madman who once delighted in tormenting Catherine and arranged to have her brought back to the place where it all began. This time, the price could be her future, her happiness, and her love.

[Candy Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not read anything written by her before. So needless to say, I was very surprised at the descriptions being so vivid and the characters were so complete, honest, and you just knew they were
life like and loving, except the bad guys of course. It had a complicated plot, two sets of newlyweds, one mad man and one very selfish, self centered woman who cares about no one but herself. Rian and Catherine go thru so much, she is afraid there are to many obstacles to be able to save them. Liam and Felicity also go thru some of these awful times with Rian and Catherine, but they care about each other and want to support each other during the bad times as well. It is a great read and I enjoyed this authors book.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Izzie d · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good story. There is a lot going on, lots of characters, good and bad.
It is not for the faint hearted as the people who are bad are really bad and do some awful things. From the depraved cousin to the jealous manipulative ex.
There is plenty of angst. You will need to read the whole series to get a HEA.
Rian's ex again manages to mar things, amazed he doesn't catch on until it causes great pain to everyone else.
ARC.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily read an Advance Review Copy of this book. This is the 3rd book and conclusion to Rian and Catherine’s story, even though there are unanswered questions at the end especially regarding Isabel and her pregnancy. I enjoyed the story but it was drug out into three books and could have easily been one great book. There were places where it could have been deleted and nothing would have been lost from the book. It was a good read and I would recommend it.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Salvation by Carla Susan Smith is book Three in the "Corsets and Carriages" Series. This continues and ends the story of Rian and Catherine. I do suggest you read the previous books in this series to fully enjoy this book. Rian and Catherine are still dealing with her tragic attack and the women that won't give him up. But they are trying to fight through to have their happy ending.

Corsets and Carriages Series;
Book 1: Mischance;
Book 2: Resolve;
Book 3: Salvation;

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final installment in the Corsets and Carriages series by Carla Susan Smith. Catherine Davenport and Rian Connor find happiness and finally reconcile, getting married nearly on the spot but Isabel and her evil plan are not to be denied. Rian must rescue his new bride from the clutches of her former abuser and help her heal from her newest trauma.
It was a satisfying ending to the series and did leave some openings for future stories as there are some loose ends.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third and final book in the series and I do recommend reading them all. Catherine is unsure how her attack will affect any relationship she has with a man. Until she shares a wonderful night with Rian. But is former mistress doesn’t plan on letting him go any time soon. Fast-paced read with plenty of drama and emotion. I was hooked from beginning to end.

[Brittany · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, this one took me forever to get to and finish. I had read the others in the series years ago now and just couldn’t finish. Finally forced myself to read it and I did enjoy the read but it was slow going. I am glad that they finally got married and have dealt with the forces trying to keep them apart.

[Melinda Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slow start

I had a hard time getting into this book. At the 50% the book really hooked me into it. I am glad that I continue reading to the end. After the party scene it was difficult to put down.

[Anthonia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not what i was expecting but none the less a book i enjoyed reading. It was slow paced, the story line was good, and the plot was nice. A lot of choices, changes, situations, issues, facts, and grief. A must read.

[Debra McEathron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally a fit ending

Rian and Catherine have their somewhat happy ending. Although we know that Isobel's baby will possibly be a problem but not one that they won't be able to surmount. A good story about overcoming violence and finding love.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book without reading the first and second parts of the story. I found that I could follows along well enough. The story was good and the romance also. If you like romance, you will like this. I didn't find anything crazy special about it though.

[R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!! I really enjoyed this whole series!! So many twists and turns that will keep you guessing. One of the most interesting stories that I have read in a while. Very original.

[Angel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shows a lot of passion

In this book there is lots of passion I hope to find one day in life. There are some scary parts too but a very good read.