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Midnight Secrets #1
London's Wicked Affair
In Anabelle Bryant's wickedly romantic new series, secrets and seduction go hand in hand...
Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, has chosen to exile himself far from London, with its painful memories and cruel gossip. Forced back to town on business, he's eager to make his stay as brief as possible. But first, he must honor his promise to find a suitable husband for his friend's little sister. On one hand, Amelia Strathmore has grown into a stunning, statuesque beauty. On the other, the willful chit is more likely to scandalize a drawing room with her outspoken opinions than blush prettily. At least she agrees to accept his help—if he fulfills
certain conditions.
Though duty-bound to marry, Amelia longs to secretly enjoy some of life's freedoms first. In this, as in many things, Lunden proves an excellent guide. In fact, Amelia's girlhood admiration for her brother's friend is fast becoming something far less innocent. Lunden believes he's known too much darkness to offer any woman happiness. Yet Amelia is starting to see how much pleasure can lie within the right partnership—especially if one is willing to be a little wicked.
Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, has chosen to exile himself far from London, with its painful memories and cruel gossip. Forced back to town on business, he's eager to make his stay as brief as possible. But first, he must honor his promise to find a suitable husband for his friend's little sister. On one hand, Amelia Strathmore has grown into a stunning, statuesque beauty. On the other, the willful chit is more likely to scandalize a drawing room with her outspoken opinions than blush prettily. At least she agrees to accept his help—if he fulfills
certain conditions.
Though duty-bound to marry, Amelia longs to secretly enjoy some of life's freedoms first. In this, as in many things, Lunden proves an excellent guide. In fact, Amelia's girlhood admiration for her brother's friend is fast becoming something far less innocent. Lunden believes he's known too much darkness to offer any woman happiness. Yet Amelia is starting to see how much pleasure can lie within the right partnership—especially if one is willing to be a little wicked.
283 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 28, 2018
351 people are currently reading
1092 people want to read
About the author
Anabelle Bryant
23 books413 followersAnabelle began reading at age three and never stopped. Her passion for reading soon turned into a passion for writing and an author was born. Happy to grab a suitcase if it ensures a new adventure, Anabelle finds endless inspiration in travel, especially imaginary jaunts into Regency England, a far cry from her home in New Jersey. Instead, her clever characters live out her daydreams because really, who wouldn't want to dance with a handsome duke or kiss a wicked earl?
Though teaching keeps her grounded, photography, running and writing, counterbalance her wanderlust. Often found with her nose in a book, Anabelle earned her Master's Degree and is completing her Doctorate Degree in education. Thrilled to be an author for Harlequin's Carina line, Anabelle's historical romances are character driven. She strives to provide a heartfelt connection between her hero, heroine, and the reader, believing the emotional journey on the path to true love is the most important bond. Clever secondary characters and lively conversation keep the pages turning.
Author Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AnabelleBrya...
Though teaching keeps her grounded, photography, running and writing, counterbalance her wanderlust. Often found with her nose in a book, Anabelle earned her Master's Degree and is completing her Doctorate Degree in education. Thrilled to be an author for Harlequin's Carina line, Anabelle's historical romances are character driven. She strives to provide a heartfelt connection between her hero, heroine, and the reader, believing the emotional journey on the path to true love is the most important bond. Clever secondary characters and lively conversation keep the pages turning.
Author Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AnabelleBrya...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
dnf
July 28, 202145% in... Just couldn't take anymore of the boneheads
December 29, 2018
Nope, didn't feel it. My first by the author and the writing's not bad, but the plot was a bit unconvincing. Heroine's brother needs to find a spouse for his rebellious sister before their father succumbs to illness, not an easy feat to accomplished when she has already set fire to one suitor and spurned several others. To assist in this impossible task, her brother recruits his old friend aka our tortured ducal hero, Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, just returned back in London following his self-imposed decade long exile in his country estate, his heart and mind still weighed down heavily by his guilt over his older brother's death 10 years early. It would've been more convincing was he not a youth of 15 then, and could and should not be held culpable by himself nor anyone else for the tragedy. The book would've been even better if Amelia was not such an annoying, impetuous termagant. The premise of the book, that he has to acquiesce to her 3 requests, before she agrees to settle down and marry a man of her brother's choosing, was also completely unconvincing. Learning to ride astride (he didn't really teach her as she just jumped on the horse and off she went), shooting a gun, swimming were somehow going to allow her to escape an unwanted husband, a concept both naive and simplistic at the same time.
Then there were the inconsistencies, my pet hate. Nilworth declared that he was of an age to consider family and need to produce heirs, but then we met his middle aged son and heir later in the book. WTH? Why was there a need for Lunden to search her brother's study and betray his friend that way and why didn't she question why he was ransacking the study? He later on in the book mentioned that Amelia's kiss was the cause he'd returned to London, and "her love the reason why he hadn't perished under a mountain of self-loathing years ago", but she was 12 when he went into exile and there was no love affair until he returned to London to settle an estate business. He didn't want to taint her with his love, so he deflowered her and then would rather she be forced into a loveless marriage with another man. And the speedy resolution, when everyone made up within the last few pages were just entirely too neat and unsatisfying.
Thank you Net Galley for supplying this copy for me to review.
Then there were the inconsistencies, my pet hate. Nilworth declared that he was of an age to consider family and need to produce heirs, but then we met his middle aged son and heir later in the book. WTH? Why was there a need for Lunden to search her brother's study and betray his friend that way and why didn't she question why he was ransacking the study? He later on in the book mentioned that Amelia's kiss was the cause he'd returned to London, and "her love the reason why he hadn't perished under a mountain of self-loathing years ago", but she was 12 when he went into exile and there was no love affair until he returned to London to settle an estate business. He didn't want to taint her with his love, so he deflowered her and then would rather she be forced into a loveless marriage with another man. And the speedy resolution, when everyone made up within the last few pages were just entirely too neat and unsatisfying.
Thank you Net Galley for supplying this copy for me to review.
July 31, 2018
My first book by this author, and definitely not the last!
This book is difficult for me to rate. I finished it, and enjoyed parts of it, but there were some little things that annoyed me a bit here and there.
The heroine:
While I get that she was supposed to be feminist, forward-thinking, independent, and strong, to me she kind of came across as careless, reckless, inconsiderate, and incapable of considering how her actions affect other people. To be fair, I have that problem with most "strong and independent" heroines, so that might be just me. She's right of course in thinking that marriage will take away all her freedom, and that she deserves a say in how she is to spend the rest of her life. I just didn't like the way she went about asserting her independence, often being careless of servants and everyone else around her. The scandals she causes (throwing a suitor in the Thames, lighting another one's pants on fire) were just over the top for me (I guess everyone else would find them humorous, so again, my bad!), and only made me think that she was really immature and heedless of the consequences of her actions.
I did like that she was determined to get a small measure of independence back, that she took active steps to ensure she had some sort of say in her life though. And the end kind of made up for it, it was a nice change.
Her brother:
Came across to me as a total jerk who barters away his sister's hand in marriage to another total jerk to gain acceptance in society. It's no wonder the heroine hates men given the example he sets. Also, I didn't really buy his change of heart in the end.
The hero:
Typical tortured, wounded, "I ruin everything and everyone just by being in their presence" outcast who closed himself off from life after the scandalous death of his brother which prompted everyone to assume he had killed him to gain the title. After ten years away from everything that reminds him of his loss, he comes back to finally untangle the last remaining mystery surrounding his brother's death and learns to accept his loss and allow himself to move on.
I sort of liked him. Seeing him come to life again because of his "Troublemaker" was sweet and worth reading the book for.
One scene that really stuck with me and confused me:
Heroine wants to learn how to ride astride. Which she excels at on the first try because she "has watched gentlemen ride for years and studied their motions." Apparently there's "nothing to it".
I know I'm not the right person to ask because I've been riding since I was 5, but I'm pretty sure even my first attempt at riding side-saddle would be a total disaster. It's a totally different way of holding yourself and interacting with your horse in my opinion.
All in all, this was a nice book! The story just really wasn't my kind of thing (which I realize is right in the title, but every now and then I just feel like trying something new and outside my comfort zone). But I am definitely looking forward to the next book, the plot sounds much more my thing.
If you like headstrong, independent heroines and tortured heroes, give this one a try!
*I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
This book is difficult for me to rate. I finished it, and enjoyed parts of it, but there were some little things that annoyed me a bit here and there.
The heroine:
While I get that she was supposed to be feminist, forward-thinking, independent, and strong, to me she kind of came across as careless, reckless, inconsiderate, and incapable of considering how her actions affect other people. To be fair, I have that problem with most "strong and independent" heroines, so that might be just me. She's right of course in thinking that marriage will take away all her freedom, and that she deserves a say in how she is to spend the rest of her life. I just didn't like the way she went about asserting her independence, often being careless of servants and everyone else around her. The scandals she causes (throwing a suitor in the Thames, lighting another one's pants on fire) were just over the top for me (I guess everyone else would find them humorous, so again, my bad!), and only made me think that she was really immature and heedless of the consequences of her actions.
I did like that she was determined to get a small measure of independence back, that she took active steps to ensure she had some sort of say in her life though. And the end kind of made up for it, it was a nice change.
Her brother:
Came across to me as a total jerk who barters away his sister's hand in marriage to another total jerk to gain acceptance in society. It's no wonder the heroine hates men given the example he sets. Also, I didn't really buy his change of heart in the end.
The hero:
Typical tortured, wounded, "I ruin everything and everyone just by being in their presence" outcast who closed himself off from life after the scandalous death of his brother which prompted everyone to assume he had killed him to gain the title. After ten years away from everything that reminds him of his loss, he comes back to finally untangle the last remaining mystery surrounding his brother's death and learns to accept his loss and allow himself to move on.
I sort of liked him. Seeing him come to life again because of his "Troublemaker" was sweet and worth reading the book for.
One scene that really stuck with me and confused me:
Heroine wants to learn how to ride astride. Which she excels at on the first try because she "has watched gentlemen ride for years and studied their motions." Apparently there's "nothing to it".
I know I'm not the right person to ask because I've been riding since I was 5, but I'm pretty sure even my first attempt at riding side-saddle would be a total disaster. It's a totally different way of holding yourself and interacting with your horse in my opinion.
All in all, this was a nice book! The story just really wasn't my kind of thing (which I realize is right in the title, but every now and then I just feel like trying something new and outside my comfort zone). But I am definitely looking forward to the next book, the plot sounds much more my thing.
If you like headstrong, independent heroines and tortured heroes, give this one a try!
*I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
July 11, 2018
I was so excited when I heard Anabelle Bryant had a new book coming out. When I found out it was a whole new series, I was practically giddy with anticipation. If the rest of her Midnight Secrets series is even half as good as London’s Wicked Affair, I will be one extremely happy girl. This deliciously crafted love story full of passion, wit, and intrigue is a shining example of why Anabelle Bryant is a rising star in historical romance.
Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, had managed for 10 years to stay away from London with its cruel gossip and painful memories surrounding the death of his brother, Douglas. He was forced to return however to finally settle his brother’s estate and see to the sale of Douglas’ town house. To avoid society, Lunden decided to stay with Matthew Strathmore, Earl of Whittingham. His oldest and only friend and a man who still suffered from the bullet he’d taken for Lunden. Matthew was dealing with his own problems as well and requested Lunden’s help. His sister, Amelia, was resisting all matchmaking attempts, and Matthew required Lunden’s influence to help marry her off while their ailing father was still alive. When Lunden met Amelia, she was no longer the young girl he remembered but had matured into a breathtakingly beautiful woman. And a headstrong woman as well. It seemed Amelia wouldn’t agree to any matchmaking prospects until Lunden agreed to help her with a short list of requests. Things she wished to experience before losing her freedom to marriage. Her choices pricked Lunden’s curiosity so he agreed. Once he met her demands and his business was resolved, he’d leave London forever. There were too many memories he’d wished abandoned. Nothing could keep him there.
He didn’t count on the effect each encounter with Amelia would have on him though. Something about her calmed his restless soul. Unfortunately, something about her also stirred his desire. “One look at her and every wall of defense, carefully constructed over years of seclusion, threatened to fracture.” Not only would it make him the worst sort of friend to lust after his best friend’s sister, but Amelia deserved more. No matter how time faded memories, scandal was always a whisper away. He’d do best to keep his head around her. How he’d fulfill her requirements and maintain his dignity was beyond him. She was a danger and a temptation. He’d come to London to make his life less complicated, but Amelia Strathmore had managed to make it more so.
Lunden and Amelia were just two of those kind of characters you can’t help but love. I fell in love with Lunden when he agreed to Amelia’s requests/demands. He didn’t just want to be free of the task. He recognized that she acted out of fear and he wanted to help her. He understood her objection to being manipulated and was convinced that she, like him, kept a silent secret. I ached for him and the guilt he carried surrounding the death of his brother and Matthew’s injury. He’d only been a boy when his parents died. He’d had no one to comfort him then or after the death of his brother. He was left to deal with it alone. He’d carried that burden for 10 years. That’s why Amelia’s effect on him confused him. He struggled between desire and self- recrimination. He’d carried guilt, regret, and unworthiness for so long, he was confused by the peace and pleasure he found in Amelia’s arms.
I fell in love with Amelia the moment she stole those two puzzle pieces from her brother just to annoy him. The fact that she set a would be suitor’s crotch on fire only solidified my love for her. I loved her zest for life. Even when dealing with her brother’s insistence that she marry, she wanted to bring joy to her best friend Charlotte and to Lunden. She felt powerless because of Matthew’s machinations. She only wanted control of her life and she was quite outspoken in requesting it. I couldn’t help but cheer for her. Lunden was the only one who seemed willing to help her get that control. He listened to her and agreed to her list of requests. He intrigued her. Why did he hide and lead such a private existence? He was a man of deep emotion but never allowed himself joy. She wanted to make him happy. I loved watching the two of them discover that, in spite of what they thought fate had planned for them, they were meant for each other.
I loved that nothing was rushed in this story. The slow discovery of the events surrounding Douglas’ death helped me appreciate the guilt Lunden felt and his need for secrecy. I loved the way his and Amelia’s relationship evolved too. There was a growing attraction there, of course, but I also loved seeing their trust in one another evolve and their desire for the other’s happiness.
The secondary characters added so much to the story as well. I’m anxious to read Lady Charlotte’s story. She’s so unhappy in her marriage and I’m curious to find out why Lord Dearing is being such an ass. Anabelle Bryant has her work cut out for her redeeming this character with me. And redeeming Matthew. He lost sight of what mattered most in this story and made some cruel choices. He’ll have to prove himself to me before I decide he needs an HEA. I can’t wait to see how Ms. Bryant makes me love these two again.
This series promises to be exquisite. No one writes historical romance like Anabelle Bryant. Her attention to detail and her ability to create true to life, loveable characters is unmatched. I promise your pulse will race with this story. The passion was to die for and the intrigue and secret dealings will keep you turning the pages. If you’ve read Ms. Bryant before, you will fall in love with this new series. If you’re new to her books, stretch out on your fainting couch, grab those smelling salts, and prepare to swoon. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, had managed for 10 years to stay away from London with its cruel gossip and painful memories surrounding the death of his brother, Douglas. He was forced to return however to finally settle his brother’s estate and see to the sale of Douglas’ town house. To avoid society, Lunden decided to stay with Matthew Strathmore, Earl of Whittingham. His oldest and only friend and a man who still suffered from the bullet he’d taken for Lunden. Matthew was dealing with his own problems as well and requested Lunden’s help. His sister, Amelia, was resisting all matchmaking attempts, and Matthew required Lunden’s influence to help marry her off while their ailing father was still alive. When Lunden met Amelia, she was no longer the young girl he remembered but had matured into a breathtakingly beautiful woman. And a headstrong woman as well. It seemed Amelia wouldn’t agree to any matchmaking prospects until Lunden agreed to help her with a short list of requests. Things she wished to experience before losing her freedom to marriage. Her choices pricked Lunden’s curiosity so he agreed. Once he met her demands and his business was resolved, he’d leave London forever. There were too many memories he’d wished abandoned. Nothing could keep him there.
He didn’t count on the effect each encounter with Amelia would have on him though. Something about her calmed his restless soul. Unfortunately, something about her also stirred his desire. “One look at her and every wall of defense, carefully constructed over years of seclusion, threatened to fracture.” Not only would it make him the worst sort of friend to lust after his best friend’s sister, but Amelia deserved more. No matter how time faded memories, scandal was always a whisper away. He’d do best to keep his head around her. How he’d fulfill her requirements and maintain his dignity was beyond him. She was a danger and a temptation. He’d come to London to make his life less complicated, but Amelia Strathmore had managed to make it more so.
Lunden and Amelia were just two of those kind of characters you can’t help but love. I fell in love with Lunden when he agreed to Amelia’s requests/demands. He didn’t just want to be free of the task. He recognized that she acted out of fear and he wanted to help her. He understood her objection to being manipulated and was convinced that she, like him, kept a silent secret. I ached for him and the guilt he carried surrounding the death of his brother and Matthew’s injury. He’d only been a boy when his parents died. He’d had no one to comfort him then or after the death of his brother. He was left to deal with it alone. He’d carried that burden for 10 years. That’s why Amelia’s effect on him confused him. He struggled between desire and self- recrimination. He’d carried guilt, regret, and unworthiness for so long, he was confused by the peace and pleasure he found in Amelia’s arms.
I fell in love with Amelia the moment she stole those two puzzle pieces from her brother just to annoy him. The fact that she set a would be suitor’s crotch on fire only solidified my love for her. I loved her zest for life. Even when dealing with her brother’s insistence that she marry, she wanted to bring joy to her best friend Charlotte and to Lunden. She felt powerless because of Matthew’s machinations. She only wanted control of her life and she was quite outspoken in requesting it. I couldn’t help but cheer for her. Lunden was the only one who seemed willing to help her get that control. He listened to her and agreed to her list of requests. He intrigued her. Why did he hide and lead such a private existence? He was a man of deep emotion but never allowed himself joy. She wanted to make him happy. I loved watching the two of them discover that, in spite of what they thought fate had planned for them, they were meant for each other.
I loved that nothing was rushed in this story. The slow discovery of the events surrounding Douglas’ death helped me appreciate the guilt Lunden felt and his need for secrecy. I loved the way his and Amelia’s relationship evolved too. There was a growing attraction there, of course, but I also loved seeing their trust in one another evolve and their desire for the other’s happiness.
The secondary characters added so much to the story as well. I’m anxious to read Lady Charlotte’s story. She’s so unhappy in her marriage and I’m curious to find out why Lord Dearing is being such an ass. Anabelle Bryant has her work cut out for her redeeming this character with me. And redeeming Matthew. He lost sight of what mattered most in this story and made some cruel choices. He’ll have to prove himself to me before I decide he needs an HEA. I can’t wait to see how Ms. Bryant makes me love these two again.
This series promises to be exquisite. No one writes historical romance like Anabelle Bryant. Her attention to detail and her ability to create true to life, loveable characters is unmatched. I promise your pulse will race with this story. The passion was to die for and the intrigue and secret dealings will keep you turning the pages. If you’ve read Ms. Bryant before, you will fall in love with this new series. If you’re new to her books, stretch out on your fainting couch, grab those smelling salts, and prepare to swoon. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
July 6, 2018
Anabelle Bryant, author of 12 amazing romance novels, has the latest distinction of now having her first Regency Romance in print. A much deserved step on the upwards climb for this indomitable woman. I say, it’s about time! Having read every single one of her previous novels, which are all available in eBook form, I can safely say that Ms. Bryant is one of today’s most innovative voices in the romance realm.
In Anabelle Bryant’s new release, London’s Wicked Affair, the first in the Midnight Secrets series, hero Lundon Beckford, the Duke of Scarsdale by default, when his older brother, who passed away in a tragic accident, is in London to settle some of his brother’s business. After a scandal surrounding the previous Duke’s death, where Lundon was ultimately been blamed for robbing his deceased brother of his title, Lundon shuns life in town, preferring to ensconce himself away in the country. Lundon presents himself at the home of his best friend, Matthew Strathmore, the Earl of Whittingham, for a quiet place to rest his head until his business is concluded. Matthew was with Lundon the day of his brother’s tragic demise, and for his help, Matthew received a gunshot wound to his knee that changes his life forever.
At his meeting with Matthew, Lundon is asked to help pawn his lively sister off in marriage to a gentleman of the ton. Amelia, Matthew’s vivacious sister, want a marriage with love like her parents share. Unfortunately for her, Matthew and her parents do not have the time or the inclination to wait for Amelia to find true love, for Amelia and Matthew’s father is stricken with an illness which leads to his declining health. Their mother formulates a list with the virtues required in a husband and hands them off to Lundon.’
When Amelia finds out her brother’s plans, she, in turn, develops a wish list of adventures to be had before she must acquiesce to her family’s wishes. This is where the situation get a tad sticky. For as much as Lundon wants to be done with town and escape, Amelia intrigues him beyond the pale. Her personality and ardor for life begin to change Lundon little by little, until he is firmly under the lady’s spell. But Lundon believes he isn’t husband material and denial can outweigh those new-found feelings. Behind her back, an ambitious Matthew makes a deal with a so-called devil for his sister’s hand in marriage to satisfy in own ambitions. Amelia has other plans, and if she must eventually marry, she is first going to experience life on her own terms, but will Lundon’s quest to remain aloof be ruined by Amelia’s plans? Only time and reading Lundon’s Wicked Affair by Anabelle Bryant answer this all important question.
Knowing Ms. Anabelle Bryant’s talent and writing like I do, I expected something special. As usual, Anabelle comes through with flying colors, but there is something even more enchanting about Amelia and Lundon’s story that resonates with this reader. Anabelle Bryant has created a new circle of friends and family that this reader is waiting to delve into. Not only do I care about the hero and heroine deeply, but I feel a camaraderie with every single character surrounding the two, even the dastardly wrong brother, Matthew. Reading London’s Wicked Affair will have you placing Ms Anabelle Bryant on your auto-buy list, and make you go back and find out where this talented lady started. Bravo Anabelle Bryant!
In Anabelle Bryant’s new release, London’s Wicked Affair, the first in the Midnight Secrets series, hero Lundon Beckford, the Duke of Scarsdale by default, when his older brother, who passed away in a tragic accident, is in London to settle some of his brother’s business. After a scandal surrounding the previous Duke’s death, where Lundon was ultimately been blamed for robbing his deceased brother of his title, Lundon shuns life in town, preferring to ensconce himself away in the country. Lundon presents himself at the home of his best friend, Matthew Strathmore, the Earl of Whittingham, for a quiet place to rest his head until his business is concluded. Matthew was with Lundon the day of his brother’s tragic demise, and for his help, Matthew received a gunshot wound to his knee that changes his life forever.
At his meeting with Matthew, Lundon is asked to help pawn his lively sister off in marriage to a gentleman of the ton. Amelia, Matthew’s vivacious sister, want a marriage with love like her parents share. Unfortunately for her, Matthew and her parents do not have the time or the inclination to wait for Amelia to find true love, for Amelia and Matthew’s father is stricken with an illness which leads to his declining health. Their mother formulates a list with the virtues required in a husband and hands them off to Lundon.’
When Amelia finds out her brother’s plans, she, in turn, develops a wish list of adventures to be had before she must acquiesce to her family’s wishes. This is where the situation get a tad sticky. For as much as Lundon wants to be done with town and escape, Amelia intrigues him beyond the pale. Her personality and ardor for life begin to change Lundon little by little, until he is firmly under the lady’s spell. But Lundon believes he isn’t husband material and denial can outweigh those new-found feelings. Behind her back, an ambitious Matthew makes a deal with a so-called devil for his sister’s hand in marriage to satisfy in own ambitions. Amelia has other plans, and if she must eventually marry, she is first going to experience life on her own terms, but will Lundon’s quest to remain aloof be ruined by Amelia’s plans? Only time and reading Lundon’s Wicked Affair by Anabelle Bryant answer this all important question.
Knowing Ms. Anabelle Bryant’s talent and writing like I do, I expected something special. As usual, Anabelle comes through with flying colors, but there is something even more enchanting about Amelia and Lundon’s story that resonates with this reader. Anabelle Bryant has created a new circle of friends and family that this reader is waiting to delve into. Not only do I care about the hero and heroine deeply, but I feel a camaraderie with every single character surrounding the two, even the dastardly wrong brother, Matthew. Reading London’s Wicked Affair will have you placing Ms Anabelle Bryant on your auto-buy list, and make you go back and find out where this talented lady started. Bravo Anabelle Bryant!
August 29, 2018
London's Wicked Affair by Anabelle Bryant is the First book in the Midnight Secrets series. This is the story of Amelia Strathmore and Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale.
Lunden put himself in exile from London after a scandal broke. No wanting to return but having to do so to attend business after his brother's death goes to stay at his friends Matthew's house. There, he is ask by his good friend to help with Matthew's sister Amelia. To me Lunden does feel he deserves a good women and does not know what to do with the feelings that Amelia is bring out in him. Amelia has always had a place in her heart for her brother good friend and that just seem to keep growing each day with him. Amelia wants some small adventures before turning her life over and works to get Lunden to achieve them.
I am such a fan of Ms. Bryant's writing that I became so happy to know she is starting a new series. This book was such a great start to that series...loved it!!
Lunden put himself in exile from London after a scandal broke. No wanting to return but having to do so to attend business after his brother's death goes to stay at his friends Matthew's house. There, he is ask by his good friend to help with Matthew's sister Amelia. To me Lunden does feel he deserves a good women and does not know what to do with the feelings that Amelia is bring out in him. Amelia has always had a place in her heart for her brother good friend and that just seem to keep growing each day with him. Amelia wants some small adventures before turning her life over and works to get Lunden to achieve them.
I am such a fan of Ms. Bryant's writing that I became so happy to know she is starting a new series. This book was such a great start to that series...loved it!!
September 13, 2018
I thought for the entire book that his name was London...ooops, it was Lunden, well close enough I say.
Lunden has a dark secret and he has been away from polite society since he was 15 and his brother died, and the gossip said Lunden did it. Poor Lunden, all he wanted was to mourn his brother and the gossip mongers made it impossible to even be in the city. So he fled. And I get that he wanted to keep things secret, but at the same time, he suffered too.
Amelia must marry, her father is ill and wants to see her happy. But she is one of those oh so common heroines, lol, outspoken and a disaster. When I heard of things she had done I just wanted to laugh. he is also very protective of of her friend (and I am glad that her book is next cos what on earth is going on with Charlotte and her husband!?).
Lunden has things to take care of and visits his old friend (I know I know, Matthew made mistakes but I really wanted him to get a book too, hopefully he will. Poor guy!!!) And yes there is Amelia again, all grown up and beautiful.
He helps her find a husband and have a bit of fun. And obvi they will fall in love and the drama is that dark secret. And he is all brooding and no you deserve better than me! I wanted to shake him and say, but hello, look at what she is offered. You ARE the better alternative!
At one time I gasped and went around with a big grin on my face ;)
Secrets, wicked deals and romance. I enjoyed it
Narrator:
I always like Victoria Aston. She is perfect for his rom!
Lunden has a dark secret and he has been away from polite society since he was 15 and his brother died, and the gossip said Lunden did it. Poor Lunden, all he wanted was to mourn his brother and the gossip mongers made it impossible to even be in the city. So he fled. And I get that he wanted to keep things secret, but at the same time, he suffered too.
Amelia must marry, her father is ill and wants to see her happy. But she is one of those oh so common heroines, lol, outspoken and a disaster. When I heard of things she had done I just wanted to laugh. he is also very protective of of her friend (and I am glad that her book is next cos what on earth is going on with Charlotte and her husband!?).
Lunden has things to take care of and visits his old friend (I know I know, Matthew made mistakes but I really wanted him to get a book too, hopefully he will. Poor guy!!!) And yes there is Amelia again, all grown up and beautiful.
He helps her find a husband and have a bit of fun. And obvi they will fall in love and the drama is that dark secret. And he is all brooding and no you deserve better than me! I wanted to shake him and say, but hello, look at what she is offered. You ARE the better alternative!
At one time I gasped and went around with a big grin on my face ;)
Secrets, wicked deals and romance. I enjoyed it
Narrator:
I always like Victoria Aston. She is perfect for his rom!
July 12, 2018
This story is captivating from the very start. There’s no way you won’t fall for Scarsdale and Amelia!
Scarsdale pretty much checked out ten years earlier, exiling himself for mistakes, sadness and scandals of the past. He’s such a likable hero, loyal and honorable to his family and friends, but I wanted to shake him at times for being so hard on himself. Though his life is shadowed in sadness, Amelia will prove to lighten his spirit and possibly open his heart to happiness.
Amelia is fighting for her future, one based on her wishes and desires, not thrust upon her by the men in her life, as society would dictate. Wow, what a strong and determined woman, intent on arming herself and demanding the pleasures and freedoms she deserves.
A great mixture of so many secrets, intrigue, romance and love, “London’s Wicked Affair” is wonderfully written, with amazing storylines, a host of interesting and likable characters, and a roller coaster of emotions. I love how there are wonderful layers deliciously woven throughout this story that remain to be unraveled in future books. A very satisfying read, but also a great tease for what comes next. Highly recommend book #1 in a wonderful new series, Midnight Secrets! And excited to celebrate Anabelle Bryant now in print!
Scarsdale pretty much checked out ten years earlier, exiling himself for mistakes, sadness and scandals of the past. He’s such a likable hero, loyal and honorable to his family and friends, but I wanted to shake him at times for being so hard on himself. Though his life is shadowed in sadness, Amelia will prove to lighten his spirit and possibly open his heart to happiness.
Amelia is fighting for her future, one based on her wishes and desires, not thrust upon her by the men in her life, as society would dictate. Wow, what a strong and determined woman, intent on arming herself and demanding the pleasures and freedoms she deserves.
A great mixture of so many secrets, intrigue, romance and love, “London’s Wicked Affair” is wonderfully written, with amazing storylines, a host of interesting and likable characters, and a roller coaster of emotions. I love how there are wonderful layers deliciously woven throughout this story that remain to be unraveled in future books. A very satisfying read, but also a great tease for what comes next. Highly recommend book #1 in a wonderful new series, Midnight Secrets! And excited to celebrate Anabelle Bryant now in print!
August 30, 2018
This story pulls you in from the first paragraph. Absolutely engaging characters, even those you want to dislike, several of them you also want to get their own story. I enjoyed the way this couple played with fire and the heat that their romance generated. The underlying mystery of the past scandal and the previous Duke's townhouse adds a dash of intrigue to this story that I just couldn't put down!
August 28, 2018
Another captivating read from Annabelle Bryant!
Angst, disillusionment and a lady's desire to choose her own path bring to bear on this charming story.
Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, is all one can hope for as the embittered, yet honorable, man who will return to the London and all he loathes to respect the promise he made his friend years ago to have his little sister settled when the time came.
Amelia Strathmore, that little sister is no longer a duckling but has blossomed into the proverbial swan. And this swan is determined to see something of life before being married off.
So our disenchanted, glowering specimen of masculinity, finds himself in charge of an outspoken and determined, attractive young woman, who sets conditions upon her doing her duty to marry. And all the responsibility falls squarely on Lunden's shoulders. Are those shoulders strong enough to fight the beckoning call of attraction and rapport that the two experience?
A rather delicious conundrum. And the solving draws both parties into a wickedly, heady dance.
A NetGalley ARC
Angst, disillusionment and a lady's desire to choose her own path bring to bear on this charming story.
Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, is all one can hope for as the embittered, yet honorable, man who will return to the London and all he loathes to respect the promise he made his friend years ago to have his little sister settled when the time came.
Amelia Strathmore, that little sister is no longer a duckling but has blossomed into the proverbial swan. And this swan is determined to see something of life before being married off.
So our disenchanted, glowering specimen of masculinity, finds himself in charge of an outspoken and determined, attractive young woman, who sets conditions upon her doing her duty to marry. And all the responsibility falls squarely on Lunden's shoulders. Are those shoulders strong enough to fight the beckoning call of attraction and rapport that the two experience?
A rather delicious conundrum. And the solving draws both parties into a wickedly, heady dance.
A NetGalley ARC
June 27, 2020
While I enjoyed this at the beginning, what started as reminding me of the sort of romance novels I read as a teen transitioned into something that did so in a bad/boring way. There's something very dated about London's Wicked Affair. She's a saucy minx and he's an alpha male with a haunted past who is afraid of love. At first it felt sort of winking about all of this, but then no tropes were overturned and nothing fun happened. There's very little between Lunden and Amelia, and the writing is often...off. This could have used more editing. Also, WHY on EARTH is his Christian name "Lunden". I thought it was his title at first, so whatever but omg he's literally named Lunden. How are you not going to at least make fun of Lunden in London if you use that name???? GAH.
Here are some quotes that made me laugh my ass off:
"He should get on with fulfilling the agreement so he could pursue his business matter and rid the city."
Literally, "rid the city" is not the phrase, and she uses it more than once. What she meant here was "quit the city". You could "rid the city" of something, but you don't just "rid the city." It scares me that not only did the author write this more than once but the editing did not catch it more than once.
"Then his heart prodded his blood flow with a sexual jolt so strong he rocked with vertiginous force in the opposite direction."
You guys, do you see what I mean about the writing being off? Like, omg the diction of this sentence is fucking bonkers.
"Her kiss was tart with spirit, sweet with femininity."
No.
"With desperate effort, he pulled from her at the last moment, his climax as powerful as a secret revealed."
WHAT. DOES. THAT. MEAN.
"Yet on some indistinct level, he remained aware her kiss was the cause he'd returned to London, her love the reason he hadn't perished under a mountain of self-loathing years ago."
This is some retcon bullshit from the end of the book. Like, the last time he saw her she was a child and he was an adult. He didn't even recognize her when he saw her again. He hadn't been off brooding and mourning and thinking of her love to stay alive. Not a thing.
On top the writing, the attempts at diversity (heroine's brother has a limp and must use a cane due to a gunshot to the leg; hero's late brother was gay) are AWFUL. The heroine's brother is trying to sell her off to a colleague of his to get nomination to leadership in a stupid club, and when she complains, at one point he basically says that he suffers too because of his disability so why should he feel bad for her. BAD. TAKE. And the fact that there are two gay characters in this book and one of them is dead before it starts due to a series of misadventures () is so so so bad. Like, yeah, Lunden's not judgmental about his brother having been gay, and he he helps the lover, but omg this is not the lgbtq rep anyone is wanting in romance. It's so awful I really don't have words aside from just recounting how stupid and terrible it is.
There's also this weird side plot about the heroine's sad sack best friend who's married to man who is cold and controlling. Nothing happens with that even though Amelia keeps making suggestions, so I think they're going to be a couple in this series, which omg all the no to that. In the end, the brother and Lunden both conveniently change their minds to support Lunden marrying Amelia. It's REALLY frustrating that the villainous brother clearly isn't meant to be a villain? I just have nothing good to say about this.
Anyway, the whole book is basically like this. So many sentences made me go ???? As I said, initially I thought the author was poking fun at old school romances, but it turns out it's not that deep or clever. This really IS what the book is.
Here are some quotes that made me laugh my ass off:
"He should get on with fulfilling the agreement so he could pursue his business matter and rid the city."
Literally, "rid the city" is not the phrase, and she uses it more than once. What she meant here was "quit the city". You could "rid the city" of something, but you don't just "rid the city." It scares me that not only did the author write this more than once but the editing did not catch it more than once.
"Then his heart prodded his blood flow with a sexual jolt so strong he rocked with vertiginous force in the opposite direction."
You guys, do you see what I mean about the writing being off? Like, omg the diction of this sentence is fucking bonkers.
"Her kiss was tart with spirit, sweet with femininity."
No.
"With desperate effort, he pulled from her at the last moment, his climax as powerful as a secret revealed."
WHAT. DOES. THAT. MEAN.
"Yet on some indistinct level, he remained aware her kiss was the cause he'd returned to London, her love the reason he hadn't perished under a mountain of self-loathing years ago."
This is some retcon bullshit from the end of the book. Like, the last time he saw her she was a child and he was an adult. He didn't even recognize her when he saw her again. He hadn't been off brooding and mourning and thinking of her love to stay alive. Not a thing.
On top the writing, the attempts at diversity (heroine's brother has a limp and must use a cane due to a gunshot to the leg; hero's late brother was gay) are AWFUL. The heroine's brother is trying to sell her off to a colleague of his to get nomination to leadership in a stupid club, and when she complains, at one point he basically says that he suffers too because of his disability so why should he feel bad for her. BAD. TAKE. And the fact that there are two gay characters in this book and one of them is dead before it starts due to a series of misadventures () is so so so bad. Like, yeah, Lunden's not judgmental about his brother having been gay, and he he helps the lover, but omg this is not the lgbtq rep anyone is wanting in romance. It's so awful I really don't have words aside from just recounting how stupid and terrible it is.
There's also this weird side plot about the heroine's sad sack best friend who's married to man who is cold and controlling. Nothing happens with that even though Amelia keeps making suggestions, so I think they're going to be a couple in this series, which omg all the no to that. In the end, the brother and Lunden both conveniently change their minds to support Lunden marrying Amelia. It's REALLY frustrating that the villainous brother clearly isn't meant to be a villain? I just have nothing good to say about this.
Anyway, the whole book is basically like this. So many sentences made me go ???? As I said, initially I thought the author was poking fun at old school romances, but it turns out it's not that deep or clever. This really IS what the book is.
July 14, 2018
Elegantly written romantic regency
This is the first book I've read by Anabelle Bryant and I'm so happy that my friend who is a longtime fan introduced me to her books.
Amelia is a woman ahead of her time. Beautiful, strong and smart she believes woman need to have a say in their futures. Lundon is tortured with a past that has kept him from loving and building a family of his own. Reacquainted after 10 years by Amelia's brother Mathew the attraction is powerful though forbidden. There are some significant twist and turns that help Amelia and Lunden to grow and work through past hurts allowing them to come together for their HEA. The secondary characters play an important part in the story their sub-plots giving the the story additional depth. However Mathew's machinations in getting Amelia married, while realistic for the times really bothered me. He did just barely redeem himself in the end. I look forward to London's Best Kept Secret Charlotte and Jeremy's story.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.
This is the first book I've read by Anabelle Bryant and I'm so happy that my friend who is a longtime fan introduced me to her books.
Amelia is a woman ahead of her time. Beautiful, strong and smart she believes woman need to have a say in their futures. Lundon is tortured with a past that has kept him from loving and building a family of his own. Reacquainted after 10 years by Amelia's brother Mathew the attraction is powerful though forbidden. There are some significant twist and turns that help Amelia and Lunden to grow and work through past hurts allowing them to come together for their HEA. The secondary characters play an important part in the story their sub-plots giving the the story additional depth. However Mathew's machinations in getting Amelia married, while realistic for the times really bothered me. He did just barely redeem himself in the end. I look forward to London's Best Kept Secret Charlotte and Jeremy's story.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.
July 10, 2018
London’s Wicked Affair⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️by Anabelle Bryant
Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, has left London for ten years choosing to isolate himself from cruel gossip. He now finds himself forced to return to town to wrap up unfinished business regarding his estate. He plans to do this a a quickly as possible and return to the country.
When he visits his only friend Matthew he is asked to stay as a guest and help Matthew find a husband for Matthews sister Amelia. Amelia is a strong willed independent woman who wants only for marry for love.
As Lunden comes to know Amelia, he wants he makes it his mission to accomplish her wishes. He also finds himself thrown into compromising positions one that involves hiding in a closet. This scene has to be every woman’s fantasy. So well written by the author it will be remembered for a very long time.
The death of Lunden’s brother becomes a vital part of the weave of this story. I will reveal nothing else.
The romantic journey these two people take is just that romantic in every way. Ms Bryant writes unforgettable characters that breath out of the pages. This is a must read.
Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, has left London for ten years choosing to isolate himself from cruel gossip. He now finds himself forced to return to town to wrap up unfinished business regarding his estate. He plans to do this a a quickly as possible and return to the country.
When he visits his only friend Matthew he is asked to stay as a guest and help Matthew find a husband for Matthews sister Amelia. Amelia is a strong willed independent woman who wants only for marry for love.
As Lunden comes to know Amelia, he wants he makes it his mission to accomplish her wishes. He also finds himself thrown into compromising positions one that involves hiding in a closet. This scene has to be every woman’s fantasy. So well written by the author it will be remembered for a very long time.
The death of Lunden’s brother becomes a vital part of the weave of this story. I will reveal nothing else.
The romantic journey these two people take is just that romantic in every way. Ms Bryant writes unforgettable characters that breath out of the pages. This is a must read.
July 9, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
So sad , yet so hopeful .
Those are my initial feeling when read this book .
Lunden has had a hard , complicated and disappointing life so far , what he needs is what he can’t have and doesn’t feel he deserves , Love .
Amelia is not looking forward to married life , women are downtrodden, put-upon, and used by their husbands .
Maybe they both just need the right person to show them the meaning of love , and that happiness is something everyone deserves.
What a really good book , thoroughly enjoyed it .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
So sad , yet so hopeful .
Those are my initial feeling when read this book .
Lunden has had a hard , complicated and disappointing life so far , what he needs is what he can’t have and doesn’t feel he deserves , Love .
Amelia is not looking forward to married life , women are downtrodden, put-upon, and used by their husbands .
Maybe they both just need the right person to show them the meaning of love , and that happiness is something everyone deserves.
What a really good book , thoroughly enjoyed it .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
August 28, 2018
Firstly, I want to say a huge congratulations to Anabelle Bryant for her first in-print book!! So hugely deserved and what a wonderful start to this new series, I have been looking forward to reading this for ages, and I can honestly say that this does not disappoint. Ms Bryant’s Midnight Secret’s series has started with a blast and going by this first instalment, I can say that we are in for something very special. As always with this fine ladies writing, the story is spell-binging with drama and flawlessly written with real wit an skill.
After years away from London the notorious and equally mysterious Lundon is back, having been forced from his voluntary exile with the death of his brother and rightful Duke, Lundon has to face the one thing that he has been dreading and hiding from, actual public and people. He has been traumatised by the cruel and backstabbing nature of society, which was one of the reason’s he chose to stay away in the first place. But, now he has not choice! But before he can do what he intends to do and then return to his reclusive life he must do one thing; he has been giving the task by his best friend; Matthew to help find Matthew’s rebellious and spirited sister Amelia a husband. Lundon is very reluctant, but he agree’s but he soon finds that the task given to him is far more challenging then he thought, especially once he reacquaints himself with the tantalizing beauty.
Lundon is a wonderfully sensual and complex man, there is so much about this mysterious man he has deep pain and issues that he hides well behind his glacial mask, but I just wanted him to find his happiness that he so deserves. He is so very hard on himself over thing’s that were out of his control, he has been through the mill and doesn’t deserve all the anguish he puts himself through. He is such great hero, he doesn’t think of himself as anything worth loving but I think he is, Lundon is kind, generous, protective and honourable. If you are lucky enough to be under this man intelligent and soothing gaze, you are a very lucky lady.
Amelia has a romantic heart and soul, she refuses to marry any man just because society and her brother dictate it. She believes in love, she wants that in her life and she will not be coerced into something she doesn’t want. At first I thought that Amelia was a little brash and spoilt little thing, she as been indulged to the point she thinks a little too much of herself, But, I love tat my initial thought of her was challenged and soon changed as I soon saw her for the women that she really is; a soulful and a tenacious young woman just wanting love. She is also very high-spirited and free- thinking, and she knows exactly what she wants, and she isn’t afraid to voice those wishes.
This is a delightful, energising read that will keep the reader on their toes. I love the intricate storyline and the relationship between Amelia and Lundon is tense and sensual, there is a spark that jumps at you off the page and keeps you engaged as you wonder what is going to happen between these two. Ms Bryant has created a fun, wonderfully atmospheric and engaging love story that will dazzle and enthral the reader with every page.
Romantic, thrilling and beautifully written, very highly recommended!
After years away from London the notorious and equally mysterious Lundon is back, having been forced from his voluntary exile with the death of his brother and rightful Duke, Lundon has to face the one thing that he has been dreading and hiding from, actual public and people. He has been traumatised by the cruel and backstabbing nature of society, which was one of the reason’s he chose to stay away in the first place. But, now he has not choice! But before he can do what he intends to do and then return to his reclusive life he must do one thing; he has been giving the task by his best friend; Matthew to help find Matthew’s rebellious and spirited sister Amelia a husband. Lundon is very reluctant, but he agree’s but he soon finds that the task given to him is far more challenging then he thought, especially once he reacquaints himself with the tantalizing beauty.
Lundon is a wonderfully sensual and complex man, there is so much about this mysterious man he has deep pain and issues that he hides well behind his glacial mask, but I just wanted him to find his happiness that he so deserves. He is so very hard on himself over thing’s that were out of his control, he has been through the mill and doesn’t deserve all the anguish he puts himself through. He is such great hero, he doesn’t think of himself as anything worth loving but I think he is, Lundon is kind, generous, protective and honourable. If you are lucky enough to be under this man intelligent and soothing gaze, you are a very lucky lady.
Amelia has a romantic heart and soul, she refuses to marry any man just because society and her brother dictate it. She believes in love, she wants that in her life and she will not be coerced into something she doesn’t want. At first I thought that Amelia was a little brash and spoilt little thing, she as been indulged to the point she thinks a little too much of herself, But, I love tat my initial thought of her was challenged and soon changed as I soon saw her for the women that she really is; a soulful and a tenacious young woman just wanting love. She is also very high-spirited and free- thinking, and she knows exactly what she wants, and she isn’t afraid to voice those wishes.
This is a delightful, energising read that will keep the reader on their toes. I love the intricate storyline and the relationship between Amelia and Lundon is tense and sensual, there is a spark that jumps at you off the page and keeps you engaged as you wonder what is going to happen between these two. Ms Bryant has created a fun, wonderfully atmospheric and engaging love story that will dazzle and enthral the reader with every page.
Romantic, thrilling and beautifully written, very highly recommended!
August 28, 2018
***Mild SPOILERS****
What I liked:
The hero, Lunden - he's heartbroken and guilt laden, but the best sort of man. He has great wells of love to give, but fear of further loss, among other things, shackles him
The writing. It's good, clear and quite appealing in some spots.
What I didn't like:
Basically the rest, but especially...
The heroine. She's selfish and self-important. She's right about how disadvantaged women are, but she always charges head first into things only concerned with herself and not how the havoc she wreaks will impact others. She grew very annoying to this reader
The brother, Matthew. He's written as a good friend to the hero, but there's little evidence of it. Yes, it's true he didn't add slander to Lunden's name along with most of the ton, but it also doesn't seem that he came to his defense at all and certainly not frequently. It's unclear how often he and Lunden see one another, but at least here, when Lunden arrives his "friend" allows him to stay at his home, but he asks for quite the favor in return. His sister is a pill and a pain, seeking Lunden's help with her is more than payment enough for room and board. That sounds like a bad trade to me, not friendship. Matthew treats his sister quite abominably as well. Yes, she's annoying, but trying to saddle her with an old husband and six children is really unconscionable.
All this said, I think the author shows promise. She can write, now she just needs to write characters I can actually like. The next book seems like it may be closer to the sort of story I can get behind. Here's to hoping.
I received an ARC of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
What I liked:
The hero, Lunden - he's heartbroken and guilt laden, but the best sort of man. He has great wells of love to give, but fear of further loss, among other things, shackles him
The writing. It's good, clear and quite appealing in some spots.
What I didn't like:
Basically the rest, but especially...
The heroine. She's selfish and self-important. She's right about how disadvantaged women are, but she always charges head first into things only concerned with herself and not how the havoc she wreaks will impact others. She grew very annoying to this reader
The brother, Matthew. He's written as a good friend to the hero, but there's little evidence of it. Yes, it's true he didn't add slander to Lunden's name along with most of the ton, but it also doesn't seem that he came to his defense at all and certainly not frequently. It's unclear how often he and Lunden see one another, but at least here, when Lunden arrives his "friend" allows him to stay at his home, but he asks for quite the favor in return. His sister is a pill and a pain, seeking Lunden's help with her is more than payment enough for room and board. That sounds like a bad trade to me, not friendship. Matthew treats his sister quite abominably as well. Yes, she's annoying, but trying to saddle her with an old husband and six children is really unconscionable.
All this said, I think the author shows promise. She can write, now she just needs to write characters I can actually like. The next book seems like it may be closer to the sort of story I can get behind. Here's to hoping.
I received an ARC of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 19, 2018
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley, thank you! All opinions are my own.
Lunden has promised Amelia's brother to find her a husband. He believes his own past to be in the way of any romance. But Amelia is an outspoken young woman who wants to shape her future after her own desires...
Those two make a sweet and very likeable couple, I quite enjoyed this wonderful start to a new series and I'm looking forward to read more from this series.
Lunden has promised Amelia's brother to find her a husband. He believes his own past to be in the way of any romance. But Amelia is an outspoken young woman who wants to shape her future after her own desires...
Those two make a sweet and very likeable couple, I quite enjoyed this wonderful start to a new series and I'm looking forward to read more from this series.
August 28, 2018
This was an entertaining read. I loved the character of Amelia, she had such spirit and a zest for life. She also had a caring side for her family and her friend Charlotte. Lunden, Duke of Scarsdale, had issues from his past that he had trouble coming to terms with, but was a likeable character. He was just the perfect match for Amelia, as he had no intentions of curbing her spirit, if only he could allow himself to be happy. I’ve mixed feelings about her brother, Matthew, Earl of Whittingham as he was quite self serving, although he did redeem himself a little. I’m looking forward to the next book which features on the troubles of Charlotte’s marriage. There was some amusing dialogue between friends and siblings and also secrets to uncover. Just a few niggles, there aren’t any whippoorwills in England and cattails are called bullrushes. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 4, 2018
I enjoyed this book. It wasn't anything spectacular, but it was entertaining. I really liked how headstrong Amelia was. That said, it was weird also having the point of view of her brother there. The book starts with his POV, which lead to some confusion on my part, since I had forgotten the synopsis.
July 4, 2018
I fell in love with Lunden (though I wanted to shake him at times). Story kept me interested, with several twists. So many secrets!
January 24, 2020
Heroine is TSTL and annoying. Additionally the author chooses a writing style I hate. That of only alluding to something that has occurred in a misguided attempt to keep one interested. She did it for multiple things so that multiplied my annoyance. By the end I was skimming. Especially the sex scenes. Just so dull.
August 25, 2018
Lunden, Duke of Scarsdale has lived the last ten years in seclusion after his brother died and the ton turned against him. Lunden wants nothing to do with London and the memories it holds. He’s there for business and then he will be gone, that is until his friend Matthew asks him for help to find his sister a husband before he leaves. The minute he sees Amelia he knows he’s in deep water. She’s everything he wants and everything he can not have.
Amelia Strathmore’s Family is determined to see her settled, her father is in poor health and her brother can’t wait to get the troublemaker out of his hair. She wants only a love match like her parents, it’s not her fault the men of the ton are useless blunders, that is until Lunden walks in to her life again. Lunden has secrets and a sadness that Amelia knows holds him back. If she can only draw him out and prove there’s a future for them.
I adored the main characters Lunden and Amelia, they had great chemistry and sexual tension. Charlotte the heroines best friend was fun and you definitely felt sorry for her relationship with her husband. The downer of the book was Matthew, Amelia’s brother. He was so heartless in his pursuit of a husband for Amelia and how it would benefit him. I totally disliked him and it made it hard to enjoy the book because he was so rude and nasty, I really wanted to throat punch him.
I am looking forward to reading the next book London’s Best Kept Secret, Charlotte and Lord Deraing’s Book.
Amelia Strathmore’s Family is determined to see her settled, her father is in poor health and her brother can’t wait to get the troublemaker out of his hair. She wants only a love match like her parents, it’s not her fault the men of the ton are useless blunders, that is until Lunden walks in to her life again. Lunden has secrets and a sadness that Amelia knows holds him back. If she can only draw him out and prove there’s a future for them.
I adored the main characters Lunden and Amelia, they had great chemistry and sexual tension. Charlotte the heroines best friend was fun and you definitely felt sorry for her relationship with her husband. The downer of the book was Matthew, Amelia’s brother. He was so heartless in his pursuit of a husband for Amelia and how it would benefit him. I totally disliked him and it made it hard to enjoy the book because he was so rude and nasty, I really wanted to throat punch him.
I am looking forward to reading the next book London’s Best Kept Secret, Charlotte and Lord Deraing’s Book.
March 2, 2019
This looks to be a promising series. Forced to accept her brother's attempts to marry her off, Amelia Strathmore, has a few demands of her own before choosing a groom. Lunden Beckford, Duke of Scarsdale, and her brother's best friend, might have arrived out of a self imposed exile at just the right time to help her through her list.
Family business has brought Lunden reluctantly back to London. Seeing his best friends sister throws a wrench into his plans to leave London quickly. Amelia tempts him as no one else ever has but his past must make him unworthy of her, or so he believes. Will her list of demands before choosing a husband be Lunden's torture or redemption?
I enjoyed this story but Lunden was the pot calling the kettle black when he referred to Amelia as a coward. He exemplified this to a tee by remaining firm in his decision to leave London once again. Luckily Amelia was nothing close to a coward and it was her determination that led Lunden to accept someone's love. I wish Lunden would have had any ro!e in their HEA. He deserved to do some groveling.
I hope Amelia continues to play a large part in the next series as she attempts to ensure that her best friend Charlotte, finds a love match with Lord Dearling.
Family business has brought Lunden reluctantly back to London. Seeing his best friends sister throws a wrench into his plans to leave London quickly. Amelia tempts him as no one else ever has but his past must make him unworthy of her, or so he believes. Will her list of demands before choosing a husband be Lunden's torture or redemption?
I enjoyed this story but Lunden was the pot calling the kettle black when he referred to Amelia as a coward. He exemplified this to a tee by remaining firm in his decision to leave London once again. Luckily Amelia was nothing close to a coward and it was her determination that led Lunden to accept someone's love. I wish Lunden would have had any ro!e in their HEA. He deserved to do some groveling.
I hope Amelia continues to play a large part in the next series as she attempts to ensure that her best friend Charlotte, finds a love match with Lord Dearling.
October 1, 2019
Great start to the series!
First of all, falling in love with your best friend’s sibling is one of my all time favorite tropes! Second, the chemistry between the hero and heroine is amazing. This is the second time I read this book and I absolutely love the scene where the ink gets knocked over and then blamed on the cat!! Third, the characters are wonderful. The hero is anguished over his brother’s death and needs closure. The heroine is a strong, intelligent female who does not let anyone tell her how to live her life. Which is exhibited by how she handles the fact that her brother betroths her to an unacceptable older gentleman for his own gain. Her brother by the way I took issue with, he did get better towards the end of the book. But I am hoping he becomes more redeemable in his own story.
I am looking forward to finding out more about Charlotte and Lord Dearing’s relationship in the next book!
First of all, falling in love with your best friend’s sibling is one of my all time favorite tropes! Second, the chemistry between the hero and heroine is amazing. This is the second time I read this book and I absolutely love the scene where the ink gets knocked over and then blamed on the cat!! Third, the characters are wonderful. The hero is anguished over his brother’s death and needs closure. The heroine is a strong, intelligent female who does not let anyone tell her how to live her life. Which is exhibited by how she handles the fact that her brother betroths her to an unacceptable older gentleman for his own gain. Her brother by the way I took issue with, he did get better towards the end of the book. But I am hoping he becomes more redeemable in his own story.
I am looking forward to finding out more about Charlotte and Lord Dearing’s relationship in the next book!
August 29, 2018
This was a wonderful start to the new series Midnight Secrets. My favorite trope of the damaged hero who needs to be redeemed and find love. Lunden, Duke of Scarsdale has so many terrible and painful memories, he tries to seclude himself away from society. Forced to go to town on business he has also promised to help his friend's sister Amelia find a suitable husband. Having admired Lunden when she was a child, she agrees to his help, but look out for her spirited and outspoken nature!
I loved Lunden and Amelia. He was so complex and tried to hide all of his pent up angst and feelings. Amelia was really not looking forward to being married and basically being her husband's property.
A delightful story that will keep you turning the pages as the relationship develops between these two!
They both need love and hopefully they will find it with each other!! A really great story.
I loved Lunden and Amelia. He was so complex and tried to hide all of his pent up angst and feelings. Amelia was really not looking forward to being married and basically being her husband's property.
A delightful story that will keep you turning the pages as the relationship develops between these two!
They both need love and hopefully they will find it with each other!! A really great story.
March 17, 2020
Lunden carries guilt of more than 10 years ago from the night of his brothers death! His foolish actions cost an injury to Matthew who took a bullet for him! Amelia is headstrong, stubborn hoyden who in her brothers opinion needs to marry swiftly! Haven driven off several suitors Matthew is in despair of seeing the deed done! In exchange for lodging Matthew asks for Lunden help in getting her hitched! Well this does not go as planned and there are several delicious adventures you will have to read! When Matthew exchanges Amelia freedom to further his own ambitions to be in charge of the Intellectual society all bets are off! While Lunden learns more and more about the night his brother died will also give up on his guilt and reach for the future? Amelia is determined to wed for love? Will she get her chance?
March 29, 2019
London’s Wicked Affair by Anabelle Bryant was an interesting story, but at times it seemed a bit forced. Some of the explanations/situations were far fetched. Other times, I was completely absorbed. I was very intrigued by the hero and heroine. I rooted for them from the very beginning. I wasn’t a big fan of Amelia’s brother and their discussions about her marriage were repetitive. His complete change of attitude at the end wasn’t believable for me. That said though, this was an enjoyable read. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I will happily read another book by her.
February 7, 2019
Honestly this book was confusing.
Bryant can clearly write. She enjoys long, flowing prose and overwrought descriptions, but unfortunately all of this cripples the pace of the novel. I skimmed pages, really looking for the crux of the story without having to read every description of every minute detail. Idk that I'd want to read a second, though I'm guessing it's about Matthew and he was an intriguing character.
Bryant can clearly write. She enjoys long, flowing prose and overwrought descriptions, but unfortunately all of this cripples the pace of the novel. I skimmed pages, really looking for the crux of the story without having to read every description of every minute detail. Idk that I'd want to read a second, though I'm guessing it's about Matthew and he was an intriguing character.
May 10, 2020
I found this book to be dull. I am on chapter 13 and I have no clue what's going on with the hero.
July 22, 2018
London's Wicked Affair (Midnight Secrets, #1) is a great start to a new series by Anabelle Bryant. I have read all of her books and I really enjoyed this one as much if not more than the last books I read by this author.
Lunden Beckford, the Duke of Scarsdale, after ten years of living in guilt and sorrow, away from London, returns to take care of his brother's estate, and then plans to go straight back home. He goes to the home of his only friend Matthew Strathmore, the Earl of Whittingham. While there, Matthew asks for his help to find a suitable husband for the Earl's sister. The Earl also asks him to stay with him while he is there to avoid all the judgmental people in Society. Lunden reluctantly agrees.
While they are in Matthew's office, a beautiful young woman bursts through the door without knocking-Matthew's sister Amelia! Lunden is surprised to say the least. Matthew yells at her for not knocking and Lunden just takes it all in.
Amelia is 22 years old, and has a mind of her own, and refuses to accept any promising suitors sent her way, which is demonstrated at the last dinner party where she almost set the would be suitor's crotch on fire.
It is simple, Amelia doesn't want to marry for anything but true love. Her father is ill and is at their country home with Amelia and Matthew's mother. They all want her settled before anything happens. Her biggest example is her best friend Charlotte who has been wed to a man that makes her miserable! Amelia refuses to let this be her fate as well.
Lunden is fascinated by her but he knows he has to stay immune to her as he does not want to fall in love and belong to anyone but himself and refuses to give the ton more to gossip about. Somehow Amelia knows that he is going to help her brother find someone to marry her off to.
Amelia feels unlike she has ever felt towards a man before, and somehow Lunden can't help but feel towards her the same way. It is powerful and very unsettling for the both of them.
This book is so good, filled with great dialog between all of the major and minor characters, there are a lot of unexpected twists in the plot. There are other plots running through the main plot like why is Matthew trying to give his sister to a man with 6 kids, what does he gain?
Despite all of Amelia's crazy antics, Lunden is obsessed! What will he do? Matthew is his only friend, and he knows Amelia deserves the best, and he feels he is not that man.
What happens to all of Amelia's suitors, that her brother sends her way, will she be forced to accept a man she has no love or passion for? Read this awesome book and find out for yourself. I loved this book so much that I gave it 5*****stars! I can't wait for the next book which will feature Amelia's friend Charlotte!
Lunden Beckford, the Duke of Scarsdale, after ten years of living in guilt and sorrow, away from London, returns to take care of his brother's estate, and then plans to go straight back home. He goes to the home of his only friend Matthew Strathmore, the Earl of Whittingham. While there, Matthew asks for his help to find a suitable husband for the Earl's sister. The Earl also asks him to stay with him while he is there to avoid all the judgmental people in Society. Lunden reluctantly agrees.
While they are in Matthew's office, a beautiful young woman bursts through the door without knocking-Matthew's sister Amelia! Lunden is surprised to say the least. Matthew yells at her for not knocking and Lunden just takes it all in.
Amelia is 22 years old, and has a mind of her own, and refuses to accept any promising suitors sent her way, which is demonstrated at the last dinner party where she almost set the would be suitor's crotch on fire.
It is simple, Amelia doesn't want to marry for anything but true love. Her father is ill and is at their country home with Amelia and Matthew's mother. They all want her settled before anything happens. Her biggest example is her best friend Charlotte who has been wed to a man that makes her miserable! Amelia refuses to let this be her fate as well.
Lunden is fascinated by her but he knows he has to stay immune to her as he does not want to fall in love and belong to anyone but himself and refuses to give the ton more to gossip about. Somehow Amelia knows that he is going to help her brother find someone to marry her off to.
Amelia feels unlike she has ever felt towards a man before, and somehow Lunden can't help but feel towards her the same way. It is powerful and very unsettling for the both of them.
This book is so good, filled with great dialog between all of the major and minor characters, there are a lot of unexpected twists in the plot. There are other plots running through the main plot like why is Matthew trying to give his sister to a man with 6 kids, what does he gain?
Despite all of Amelia's crazy antics, Lunden is obsessed! What will he do? Matthew is his only friend, and he knows Amelia deserves the best, and he feels he is not that man.
What happens to all of Amelia's suitors, that her brother sends her way, will she be forced to accept a man she has no love or passion for? Read this awesome book and find out for yourself. I loved this book so much that I gave it 5*****stars! I can't wait for the next book which will feature Amelia's friend Charlotte!
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