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Wicked Wallflowers #3
The Governess
Regina (Reggie) Spark has loved Broderick Killoran, the resourceful and protective proprietor of the Devil’s Den, ever since he saved her from the streets and made her his right hand at the notorious gaming hell. For just as long, Reggie has never admitted her true feelings for him. Nor has she revealed her spirited ambitions—to buck convention and expectations and open a music hall.
While Broderick built his gaming empire with ruthless cunning, his loyalty to his employees is boundless. So when he learns of Reggie’s plan to leave his side and take charge of her own future, the betrayal cuts Broderick to the core. He responds as he would to any business rival…with swift retribution.
Instead of wilting, the savvy Reggie rebounds with a fury that shocks Broderick and stirs a desire he’s been holding in reserve for only ladies of nobility. But as their seductive battle of wills ignites under the harsh spotlight of the London Season, secrets are exposed as well—ones that could be ruinous in decent society but invaluable for the heart.
While Broderick built his gaming empire with ruthless cunning, his loyalty to his employees is boundless. So when he learns of Reggie’s plan to leave his side and take charge of her own future, the betrayal cuts Broderick to the core. He responds as he would to any business rival…with swift retribution.
Instead of wilting, the savvy Reggie rebounds with a fury that shocks Broderick and stirs a desire he’s been holding in reserve for only ladies of nobility. But as their seductive battle of wills ignites under the harsh spotlight of the London Season, secrets are exposed as well—ones that could be ruinous in decent society but invaluable for the heart.
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2019
1652 people are currently reading
2161 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
136 books2,557 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
February 12, 2019
Title: The Governess
Series: Wicked Wallflowers
Author: Christi Caldwell
Release date: February 12, 2019
Cliffhanger: No
Genre:historical romance
Only Broderick Killoran could issue a threat in a silken whisper that painted it as seduction instead of ruin.
Christi Caldwell has quickly become a new top favorite author in the historical romance genre for me. I recently binged on The Sinful Brides series and the first two in the Wicked Wallflowers back to back because once I started, I was utterly addicted. I gobbled them up like they were my last meal before a long fast.
I'm going to be honest and admit that Broderick Killoran was not high on my list of characters that I was especially excited to read about. As the head of the Killoran clan and the Devil's Den, he's certainly the most powerful. He's a man who's willing to play dirty in the cutthroat streets of the Dials in order to give his siblings financial security. But his obsession with marrying off any one of his sisters to a nobleman didn't incite any warm and squishy feelings. I never really understood his laser focus on making that happen, despite his sisters' aversion to sacrificing themselves. I should have known better than to be anything less than excited for his book. Somehow Caldwell not only meets, but far exceeds my expectations. I don't know how she keeps doing it, but each couple seems to impress me more than the last.
I knew going in that this was going to be a secret unrequited love story, so I was hoping for all of the angst that goes along with it. Let me assure you, it did not disappoint. Regina "Reggie" Spark is the governess to Broderick's younger brother and sisters, and has become one of the few people he trusts in the world. Reggie has been harboring some very inconvenient feelings for her employer that she's sure he will never return. There were hints in the series that she felt something deep for him, but he never had a clue about her turmoil. She was his employee (and practically a member of the family as far as he was concerned,) so that was a line he couldn't fathom crossing.
Reggie has decided that for her own peace of mind, she must separate herself from the family and start her own business. She plans to open her own music hall which will not only give her her own independence, but it will also give the prostitutes from the Devil's Den a new life where they don't have to sell their bodies to survive. I admired Reggie's strength and tenacity from page one. She wants to make something of herself and follow her passion for music, and it took a lot of guts to make the decision to put herself first. Knowing that Broderick would see her move as a betrayal against him, she pushed on with her plans because she knew she couldn't continue to be dependent on this ruthless man. She had to make her own way in life, with or without his approval.
Ten years ago, nearly to the date, Broderick had saved her. On this day, Reggie would save herself.
When Broderick discovers her secret plans, the retribution is swift and brutal. He isn't willing to listen to her explanations or motivations, and sets a trap to keep her under his control. Thing is, Reggie isn't the type to be backed into a corner or bullied, and the sparks start flying. She was the perfect adversary for him because she knew every one of his secrets and intimidation tactics. And despite his broken trust, he can't help but admire the fire, wit, and courage she displays. Out of his admiration grows an attraction that he's determined to resist.
It was a relief to finally get inside Broderick's head so that I could understand him better. Previously he always seemed very self-absorbed and single minded in his attempts to:
1) Make money
2) Form connections to the nobility through advantageous marriages with his sisters
Leading the life he has, first with Diggory, and then making a name for himself in the unforgiving streets of the Dials, his only objective has been to give the Killorans safety. They believe that he wants to increase his own fortune and social standing, but he's worried what will become of them if his enemies ever get the better of him. His role is the protector, because he's determined to do a better job than his own weak father who led him to the underbelly of London. Even as the noose is tightening around his neck as his past catches up with him, he's resigned to the inevitable. Gertrude is his last unmarried sister, and he's dead set on giving her a season where she will meet a husband who will take care of her.
I wasn't prepared for how tragic Reggie's backstory would be. The combination of the slow burn, enemies to lovers tension, and uncovering her painful past created a serious amount of emotion that had my heart fluttering inside my chest. She was such a broken heroine, and yet she gritted her teeth and faced every obstacle with incredible bravery. There were several times in the last chapters that I got choked up and barely held myself back from crying as she healed from all of the hurt she had been hiding.
Not only did I fall head over heels for Broderick, but his spoiled brother Stephen finally brought me around to his corner. I never thought I would like him after what he did to the Black family, but he proved that he had some honor in him by the end. Stephen's father, Lord Edwin's vendetta against Broderick was at the center of all of the threads of the plot. I was on the edge of my seat as they all started to weave together and rush towards the conclusion. There is much more of the story to be told in regards to Edwin, and I'll be interested to see how the author reconciles his relationship with his son.
If you haven't read a Christi Caldwell book, you are missing out. Her writing is instantly engaging and highly addictive. The characters she creates are flawed, three dimensional people that you have to learn more about. They're like a puzzle with scattered pieces you need to study and put back together again. And that's exactly what she's done with Broderick and Reggie. Two broken people find an unexpected love together that binds them and gives them strength to overcome their pasts. I highly recommend this series, and cannot wait for Gertrude's book, The Bluestocking which is scheduled for publication in May.
A taste of her was a mere taunt. Temptation. Sin wrapped in splendor. And he wanted all of her, rules of honor be damned.
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February 16, 2019
It's going to be a long time before I read one of this author's books again. Thank goodness it was free! I felt free to skip liberally.
Now, this is a HR, and I've read plenty of HRs. There are hot ones and there are tame ones, but typically the focus is the passion and love between the MCs. It was way too long. And the passion and love might have been about 5-10% of the book. See my notes.
There was def push and pull, but not the kind simmering with emotion and intense yearning, etc. Just didn't feel it.
The end.
Now, this is a HR, and I've read plenty of HRs. There are hot ones and there are tame ones, but typically the focus is the passion and love between the MCs. It was way too long. And the passion and love might have been about 5-10% of the book. See my notes.
There was def push and pull, but not the kind simmering with emotion and intense yearning, etc. Just didn't feel it.
The end.
April 29, 2020
This was an enjoyable third instalment in Christi Caldwell's Wicked Wallflower series. It is historical romance with a good mix of drama and romance. It also has the fun twist of focusing on two characters who were not members of the nobility but who did have pasts that intertwined with members of the nobility.
This third book focused on the leader of the Devil's Den, Broderick Killoran, as his life came under threat. With the news out about the true identity of Stephen Killoran the boys true father Lord Edwin, also known as the Mad Marquess, blames the abduction of the boy on Broderick and is determined to have his revenge. Broderick, knowing that likely means a hanging is close in his future, intends to see his final sister Gertrude settled with a noble husband to protect her after his demise so seeks to push her into a London Season. He intends to send Regina Spark with her as her companion as Reggie is the one person he has always been able to rely on to see to the needs of his family and himself. Reggie rejects the proposition, much to Broderick's shock, as she has finally decided to move on from the Killoran's, and the man she has secretly loved for years, to start a new life for herself. Saying no to him was bad enough but when it becomes clear that Reggie plans on launching an establishment that might be a potential rival to the Devil's Den Broderick feels betrayed and moves against her as he would any potential rival. So he tells himself at least as it soon becomes apparent to him that perhaps he is not ready to lose the person he has taken for granted for so long from his life!
It was a fun tale. Both Broderick and Reggie were easy to like and it was easy to root for their romance to work out as they always felt like a good pairing. The rest of the story was also fun and had a bit of tension and drama to it as Lord Edwin sought his revenge.
All in all this was an enjoyable tale that also had the benefit of setting up the next book in the series as an intriguing sounding story. It helps that the secondary characters in this series are usually a fun bunch.
Rating: 3.5 stars.
Audio Note: I think Tim Campbell did a good job with the audio. The more I listen to him the more I have learned to enjoy his narration.
This third book focused on the leader of the Devil's Den, Broderick Killoran, as his life came under threat. With the news out about the true identity of Stephen Killoran the boys true father Lord Edwin, also known as the Mad Marquess, blames the abduction of the boy on Broderick and is determined to have his revenge. Broderick, knowing that likely means a hanging is close in his future, intends to see his final sister Gertrude settled with a noble husband to protect her after his demise so seeks to push her into a London Season. He intends to send Regina Spark with her as her companion as Reggie is the one person he has always been able to rely on to see to the needs of his family and himself. Reggie rejects the proposition, much to Broderick's shock, as she has finally decided to move on from the Killoran's, and the man she has secretly loved for years, to start a new life for herself. Saying no to him was bad enough but when it becomes clear that Reggie plans on launching an establishment that might be a potential rival to the Devil's Den Broderick feels betrayed and moves against her as he would any potential rival. So he tells himself at least as it soon becomes apparent to him that perhaps he is not ready to lose the person he has taken for granted for so long from his life!
It was a fun tale. Both Broderick and Reggie were easy to like and it was easy to root for their romance to work out as they always felt like a good pairing. The rest of the story was also fun and had a bit of tension and drama to it as Lord Edwin sought his revenge.
All in all this was an enjoyable tale that also had the benefit of setting up the next book in the series as an intriguing sounding story. It helps that the secondary characters in this series are usually a fun bunch.
Rating: 3.5 stars.
Audio Note: I think Tim Campbell did a good job with the audio. The more I listen to him the more I have learned to enjoy his narration.
January 24, 2019
Series: Wicked Wallflowers #3
Publication Date: 2/12/19
Number of Pages: 382
Christi Caldwell adds another gripping and intense story to her Wicked Wallflowers series. I always have to psyche myself up before I begin reading one of this author’s books. Not because the book isn’t good – they are all wonderful. No, it is because they are so intensely emotional that you will be wrung out by the time you are through with it.
The series features the Killoran’s, none of them are actually related by blood, but they are closer than most families could think of being. They were all children living on the streets of Seven Dials and they were all taken into the street gang of Diggory, one of the vilest humans you could imagine. Diggory is dead before this series begins (see the Sinful Brides series for details on that) and Broderick is now in charge. We’ve seen two of the siblings find their HEA in the first two books of the series – Cleo (Cleopatra) marries Adair in The Hellion and Ophelia settles down with Connor in The Vixen. This book features Broderick who finally discovers his love, Reggie, was right under his nose all the time.
Broderick Killoran is absolutely ruthless in his business dealings – he has to be because you don’t survive in Seven Dials without it. He’s also mysterious and everyone wonders how someone who is as cultured and who speaks as well as he does has ended up in the Dials. Broderick longs for respectability – not necessarily for himself, but he feels that is the only way to keep his family safe. He keeps trying to marry his sisters into the aristocracy, but he hasn’t managed to do it yet. So, maybe it is up to him to do it.
Broderick rescued Reggie years ago and has protected her since. How could she not love him? He saved her, he gave her a place in the running of the Devil’s Den, he treats her with respect and he listens to her thoughts and opinions. Except, he doesn’t know she exists as a woman.
Things are getting really intense in Broderick’s world. Years ago, a baby was stolen from the home of a Marquess and was subsequently delivered to Diggory in the Dials. That baby is now called Stephen and he is Broderick’s brother. That Marquess (know as the Mad Marquess) has discovered that Stephen is his kidnapped son and he’s coming after Broderick. Broderick may very well hang for it. To that stress, add that his most trusted right-hand person, Reggie, is planning to open her own music hall in competition with him.
In the previous books, both Reggie and Broderick’s pasts have been in shadow and we learn more about those in this book. It is nice to learn their history and see how they came to be the people they currently are.
It was emotionally exhausting to see Broderick and Reggie thread-the-needle to find love, protect Broderick, protect Stephen and deal with the villains.
Definitely a recommended read! Now, to wait for The Bluestocking that will feature Gertrude Killoran and the Mad Marquess. That has to be a hum-dinger!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 2/12/19
Number of Pages: 382
Christi Caldwell adds another gripping and intense story to her Wicked Wallflowers series. I always have to psyche myself up before I begin reading one of this author’s books. Not because the book isn’t good – they are all wonderful. No, it is because they are so intensely emotional that you will be wrung out by the time you are through with it.
The series features the Killoran’s, none of them are actually related by blood, but they are closer than most families could think of being. They were all children living on the streets of Seven Dials and they were all taken into the street gang of Diggory, one of the vilest humans you could imagine. Diggory is dead before this series begins (see the Sinful Brides series for details on that) and Broderick is now in charge. We’ve seen two of the siblings find their HEA in the first two books of the series – Cleo (Cleopatra) marries Adair in The Hellion and Ophelia settles down with Connor in The Vixen. This book features Broderick who finally discovers his love, Reggie, was right under his nose all the time.
Broderick Killoran is absolutely ruthless in his business dealings – he has to be because you don’t survive in Seven Dials without it. He’s also mysterious and everyone wonders how someone who is as cultured and who speaks as well as he does has ended up in the Dials. Broderick longs for respectability – not necessarily for himself, but he feels that is the only way to keep his family safe. He keeps trying to marry his sisters into the aristocracy, but he hasn’t managed to do it yet. So, maybe it is up to him to do it.
Broderick rescued Reggie years ago and has protected her since. How could she not love him? He saved her, he gave her a place in the running of the Devil’s Den, he treats her with respect and he listens to her thoughts and opinions. Except, he doesn’t know she exists as a woman.
Things are getting really intense in Broderick’s world. Years ago, a baby was stolen from the home of a Marquess and was subsequently delivered to Diggory in the Dials. That baby is now called Stephen and he is Broderick’s brother. That Marquess (know as the Mad Marquess) has discovered that Stephen is his kidnapped son and he’s coming after Broderick. Broderick may very well hang for it. To that stress, add that his most trusted right-hand person, Reggie, is planning to open her own music hall in competition with him.
In the previous books, both Reggie and Broderick’s pasts have been in shadow and we learn more about those in this book. It is nice to learn their history and see how they came to be the people they currently are.
It was emotionally exhausting to see Broderick and Reggie thread-the-needle to find love, protect Broderick, protect Stephen and deal with the villains.
Definitely a recommended read! Now, to wait for The Bluestocking that will feature Gertrude Killoran and the Mad Marquess. That has to be a hum-dinger!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
July 30, 2019
Once again, CC has failed to impress me with this series. Unlike my previous gripes with her more recent books, at least this one doesn't have any annoyingly repetitive phrasings nor editing errors. It's main problem is that the plot was too convoluted, branching out into subplots none of which were terribly convincing. For those who have not read the earlier books, it might be a bit hard to follow the plot initially.
Broderick Killoran has been running the gambling hell, Devil's Den, for many years with his family. Regina Spark has been considered as honorary family member, since he rescued her from desperate straits 10 years ago. Truth be told, she is as much family as his adopted 3 sisters and younger brother, neither one of which share a drop of blood in common with him, but all have his heart and loyalty nevertheless. Following a harrowing past, battling for survival in the notorious Dials, they now live a comfortable existence but the harmony is coming to end through a few life-changing revelations. Firstly, his 11 year old 'brother' whom he thought he'd rescued as an orphaned toddler turns out to be not so orphaned after all. In fact, Stephen is the son of a much alive Marquess, one raging, powerful man who is out for revenge after learning that Broderick might in fact have been responsible for the kidnapping of his only child. Betrayed by an old associate, he never expected also to be back-stabbed by one of his most trusted, Reggie, whom he has learnt is planning to leave the Den to finance a competing business nearby taking with her some of his best employees. So while trying to rescue his neck from the wrath of the Marquess, Broderick has to deal with her unexpected treachery as well as ensuring the welfare of Stephen and his remaining unmarried sister in case of the collapse of their business establishment.
Despite her 10 years at the Den and her closeness with Broderick and his siblings, Regina has always consciously remained slightly apart from them, separated by her secret past shame and untenable, suppressed love for Broderick. She knows it is time for her to move on, before her heart makes her vulnerable once more to the power and will of a man, even if Broderick is far more honorable and decent than the monster who abused her body and trust in her youth. Only the honorable and decent Broderick is no more once her perfidious plans has been revealed to him - replaced by an enraged and punishing man she can barely recognise . He forces her to serve as companion to his unmarried sister, as he has hopes for the latter to secure a noble match. Of course, the stormy fury between them ignites passion like never before.
There are so many holes in plot I don't even know where to start. Why on earth would a music hall be considered competition to a gambling den, when they obviously attract completely different clienteles? Why would Broderick want Regina, a known Den employee, to serve as companion to his sister, when that is going to reduce Gertrude's chance of success? Broderick and his 'siblings' refer to her as family, but noone really treated her fully as such and most were only too happy to condemn her once they found out her plans, without wondering about her motives. Why would the Marquess be pledging revenge on Broderick, if he did not believe that Stephen was really his son? Instead of panicking about his imminent death, why did Broderick not work at convincing the Marquess of the truth as his words should hold more power than that of a good-for-nothing crim? Gertrude was supposedly almost blind, but there was no indication as such in the way she moved, and she even read the newspaper! There were more, but it's getting late and I need to wrap this up.
I think, I'm writing off this series but might try CC's next series out.
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley.
Broderick Killoran has been running the gambling hell, Devil's Den, for many years with his family. Regina Spark has been considered as honorary family member, since he rescued her from desperate straits 10 years ago. Truth be told, she is as much family as his adopted 3 sisters and younger brother, neither one of which share a drop of blood in common with him, but all have his heart and loyalty nevertheless. Following a harrowing past, battling for survival in the notorious Dials, they now live a comfortable existence but the harmony is coming to end through a few life-changing revelations. Firstly, his 11 year old 'brother' whom he thought he'd rescued as an orphaned toddler turns out to be not so orphaned after all. In fact, Stephen is the son of a much alive Marquess, one raging, powerful man who is out for revenge after learning that Broderick might in fact have been responsible for the kidnapping of his only child. Betrayed by an old associate, he never expected also to be back-stabbed by one of his most trusted, Reggie, whom he has learnt is planning to leave the Den to finance a competing business nearby taking with her some of his best employees. So while trying to rescue his neck from the wrath of the Marquess, Broderick has to deal with her unexpected treachery as well as ensuring the welfare of Stephen and his remaining unmarried sister in case of the collapse of their business establishment.
Despite her 10 years at the Den and her closeness with Broderick and his siblings, Regina has always consciously remained slightly apart from them, separated by her secret past shame and untenable, suppressed love for Broderick. She knows it is time for her to move on, before her heart makes her vulnerable once more to the power and will of a man, even if Broderick is far more honorable and decent than the monster who abused her body and trust in her youth. Only the honorable and decent Broderick is no more once her perfidious plans has been revealed to him - replaced by an enraged and punishing man she can barely recognise . He forces her to serve as companion to his unmarried sister, as he has hopes for the latter to secure a noble match. Of course, the stormy fury between them ignites passion like never before.
There are so many holes in plot I don't even know where to start. Why on earth would a music hall be considered competition to a gambling den, when they obviously attract completely different clienteles? Why would Broderick want Regina, a known Den employee, to serve as companion to his sister, when that is going to reduce Gertrude's chance of success? Broderick and his 'siblings' refer to her as family, but noone really treated her fully as such and most were only too happy to condemn her once they found out her plans, without wondering about her motives. Why would the Marquess be pledging revenge on Broderick, if he did not believe that Stephen was really his son? Instead of panicking about his imminent death, why did Broderick not work at convincing the Marquess of the truth as his words should hold more power than that of a good-for-nothing crim? Gertrude was supposedly almost blind, but there was no indication as such in the way she moved, and she even read the newspaper! There were more, but it's getting late and I need to wrap this up.
I think, I'm writing off this series but might try CC's next series out.
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley.
September 3, 2023
My second Christi Caldwell novel and I'm hooked. I'm ready to download anything I can find from her and binge read.
February 18, 2019
3.5/5 Stars.
I think after reading a staggering amount of books by Christi Caldwell, I've come to realize that you never really know if you're in for a good, bad or decent book. Some of her books, in this series itself, and her older Heart of the Duke series are dear to me, and I'll be going back to a re-read often. However, you can just never know with certainty if it'll be fabulous or not.
This book was somewhere in the "good-ish" section of CC books for me. It tethered close to the "definitely good" section but lost out with a sluggish start. The sad part, is that I had come in with great expectations as I adored Broderick from the previous books and terribly wanted to love his book. And love I did, but only say the last 30% of the book.
The book picks up soon after The Vixen, with Broderick dealing with the blow of having to loose a loved one, and also the possibility of being hanged for his crimes. Without giving away anything, we see Broderick Killoran - owner/runner of the seedy and dangerous Devil's Den - at sea, lost and unsure of how to secure the safety of his family and his staff. His staff, brings to light our heroine for this book; Regina Spark, a woman in Broderick's employ of 10 years now. Her and Broderick share a close bond, a professional one for him but a deeply personal one for Regina.
Early on in the book we learn that Regina has been in love with Broderick for years now. Her love for him, and her certainty that he could never feel anything similar for her drives her to plan a scheme to leave his employ and open her own Music Hall. This prompts the main conflict between our characters, as Broderick feels betrayed by someone he considers family. Their interactions later on and definitely well written and sexually charged. She's the one person who doesn't simply cower to him, isn't afraid to tell him when he's being an ass and the only who sees beyond his seemingly lofty aspirations to be a part of England's gentle peerage.
There is also the sub-plot of the threat hanging over their head in the form of the Marquess of Maddock, who has damning evidence that could get Broderick hanged. Maddock, also happens to be the hero of the next book with Gertrude and I'm SO looking forward to that! Anyway, I digressed. The "I-may-hang-anyday" plot drives a certain urgency to the plot, and leaves Broderick trying to plan and sort his life out properly, so no one suffers or has to fend for themselves after his death. One of the people he comes to realize means the world to him is Regina, a woman he met 10 years ago on the London Bridge.
The scene depicting how a broken, bleeding and injured Regina had offered herself to Broderick in exchange for money is truly well written, and creates a wonderful understanding of the bond between these two. What I did not get however, was the sudden onset of his feelings and lust for Regina, but I'll chock that up to his impending death.
The romance was there, well written and fleshed out, however it just didn't pull me in as many others by the same author has in the past. Maybe I was reading this at the wrong time, or I came in with too many expecations and ruined it for myself. I did truly enjoy the last 30%, and I loved that Broderick didn't try to supress his feelings once he realized them out of some macho nonsense. I truly enjoyed the scene where they expressed their love to each other, it was well written.
Overall an enjoyable book, however not my favorite by the author. I'm looking forward to the next!
I think after reading a staggering amount of books by Christi Caldwell, I've come to realize that you never really know if you're in for a good, bad or decent book. Some of her books, in this series itself, and her older Heart of the Duke series are dear to me, and I'll be going back to a re-read often. However, you can just never know with certainty if it'll be fabulous or not.
This book was somewhere in the "good-ish" section of CC books for me. It tethered close to the "definitely good" section but lost out with a sluggish start. The sad part, is that I had come in with great expectations as I adored Broderick from the previous books and terribly wanted to love his book. And love I did, but only say the last 30% of the book.
The book picks up soon after The Vixen, with Broderick dealing with the blow of having to loose a loved one, and also the possibility of being hanged for his crimes. Without giving away anything, we see Broderick Killoran - owner/runner of the seedy and dangerous Devil's Den - at sea, lost and unsure of how to secure the safety of his family and his staff. His staff, brings to light our heroine for this book; Regina Spark, a woman in Broderick's employ of 10 years now. Her and Broderick share a close bond, a professional one for him but a deeply personal one for Regina.
Early on in the book we learn that Regina has been in love with Broderick for years now. Her love for him, and her certainty that he could never feel anything similar for her drives her to plan a scheme to leave his employ and open her own Music Hall. This prompts the main conflict between our characters, as Broderick feels betrayed by someone he considers family. Their interactions later on and definitely well written and sexually charged. She's the one person who doesn't simply cower to him, isn't afraid to tell him when he's being an ass and the only who sees beyond his seemingly lofty aspirations to be a part of England's gentle peerage.
There is also the sub-plot of the threat hanging over their head in the form of the Marquess of Maddock, who has damning evidence that could get Broderick hanged. Maddock, also happens to be the hero of the next book with Gertrude and I'm SO looking forward to that! Anyway, I digressed. The "I-may-hang-anyday" plot drives a certain urgency to the plot, and leaves Broderick trying to plan and sort his life out properly, so no one suffers or has to fend for themselves after his death. One of the people he comes to realize means the world to him is Regina, a woman he met 10 years ago on the London Bridge.
The scene depicting how a broken, bleeding and injured Regina had offered herself to Broderick in exchange for money is truly well written, and creates a wonderful understanding of the bond between these two. What I did not get however, was the sudden onset of his feelings and lust for Regina, but I'll chock that up to his impending death.
The romance was there, well written and fleshed out, however it just didn't pull me in as many others by the same author has in the past. Maybe I was reading this at the wrong time, or I came in with too many expecations and ruined it for myself. I did truly enjoy the last 30%, and I loved that Broderick didn't try to supress his feelings once he realized them out of some macho nonsense. I truly enjoyed the scene where they expressed their love to each other, it was well written.
Overall an enjoyable book, however not my favorite by the author. I'm looking forward to the next!
February 14, 2019
PUBLICATION DATE: FEBRUARY 12, 2019
This was such a great story to read and a fantastic addition to the "Wicked Wallflowers" series.
Christi Caldwell's characters are smart, charming, charismatic and witty.
I loved the build up to this story from the previous books. (Even though this book could be read as a standalone, I think the reader would enjoy the story much more if they had the history of characters and their backgrounds.)
All the pieces came together in this story and all the loose ends were tied up.
Broderick and Regina were an amazing couple to read and their 'slow-burn' story was so worth the wait.
Excellent story and an amazing series!
"I've received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review."
This was such a great story to read and a fantastic addition to the "Wicked Wallflowers" series.
Christi Caldwell's characters are smart, charming, charismatic and witty.
I loved the build up to this story from the previous books. (Even though this book could be read as a standalone, I think the reader would enjoy the story much more if they had the history of characters and their backgrounds.)
All the pieces came together in this story and all the loose ends were tied up.
Broderick and Regina were an amazing couple to read and their 'slow-burn' story was so worth the wait.
Excellent story and an amazing series!
"I've received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review."
January 24, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋
I think that maybe Broderick is going to be one of my all time favourite characters from a book or series , he is so complex , so devoted , and so misunderstood in many ways .
The books before this have given a good grounding of his character , but until now he’s not been revealed, get ready because it’s all in here .
Reggie is a strong , stunningly devoted woman . She takes no messing , the Killorans have rubbed off on her, living with them as she has for 10 years , but what took her to their doorstep and what keeps her there .
Christi has done a magnificent job of pulling all the clues and characters together and weaving an wonderful adventure and love story from the tangle .
As she always seems to do she’s given us tension and danger , sadness and joy , love and Romance in spades, with relentless pace .
The book is thrilling and addictive, Christi Caldwell at her best , always leaving you satisfied but begging for more .
I loved this book ,and wether this is your fist book by her or your twentieth you’ll enjoy every page, I guarantee.
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
I think that maybe Broderick is going to be one of my all time favourite characters from a book or series , he is so complex , so devoted , and so misunderstood in many ways .
The books before this have given a good grounding of his character , but until now he’s not been revealed, get ready because it’s all in here .
Reggie is a strong , stunningly devoted woman . She takes no messing , the Killorans have rubbed off on her, living with them as she has for 10 years , but what took her to their doorstep and what keeps her there .
Christi has done a magnificent job of pulling all the clues and characters together and weaving an wonderful adventure and love story from the tangle .
As she always seems to do she’s given us tension and danger , sadness and joy , love and Romance in spades, with relentless pace .
The book is thrilling and addictive, Christi Caldwell at her best , always leaving you satisfied but begging for more .
I loved this book ,and wether this is your fist book by her or your twentieth you’ll enjoy every page, I guarantee.
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
June 17, 2019
2.5 STARS: Not My Cup of Tea
Regina (Reggie) Spark has secretly loved Broderick Killoran for years, he is the man who saved her from the streets and a life of pain and suffering, she is his right hand at the gaming hell he owns. But Reggie ha aspirations of owning her own music hall, a desire she has kept hidden from Broderick. Broderick expects loyalty from those who work for him, and in return he is potently loyal to those under his roof, when he learns Reggie is planning to leave and start her own business he feels betrayed, and because this is Reggie, the betrayal cuts sharply and deeply, and Broderick responds sharply as he would with any rival business. But Reggie is one rival he cares for greatly, and his desire for her is one he cannot simply switch off, but Reggie has secrets, and when a man from her past re-emerges, she fears her past could ruin the Killorans.
I was really looking forward to reading the story focused on Broderick, the highly resourceful and cunning proprietor of the Devil’s Den and the potently protective brother of the Stephen, Ophelia, Cleopatra (Cleo), and Gertrude. However, for some reason I couldn’t completely sink into this, and connect with the main characters as I would have liked. I didn’t skim read more than 2 or 3 pages, but as I read, I felt really disconnected from the plot. I didn’t feel the passion between Reggie and Broderick, I wanted so much more.
Acquired via KU.
Regina (Reggie) Spark has secretly loved Broderick Killoran for years, he is the man who saved her from the streets and a life of pain and suffering, she is his right hand at the gaming hell he owns. But Reggie ha aspirations of owning her own music hall, a desire she has kept hidden from Broderick. Broderick expects loyalty from those who work for him, and in return he is potently loyal to those under his roof, when he learns Reggie is planning to leave and start her own business he feels betrayed, and because this is Reggie, the betrayal cuts sharply and deeply, and Broderick responds sharply as he would with any rival business. But Reggie is one rival he cares for greatly, and his desire for her is one he cannot simply switch off, but Reggie has secrets, and when a man from her past re-emerges, she fears her past could ruin the Killorans.
I was really looking forward to reading the story focused on Broderick, the highly resourceful and cunning proprietor of the Devil’s Den and the potently protective brother of the Stephen, Ophelia, Cleopatra (Cleo), and Gertrude. However, for some reason I couldn’t completely sink into this, and connect with the main characters as I would have liked. I didn’t skim read more than 2 or 3 pages, but as I read, I felt really disconnected from the plot. I didn’t feel the passion between Reggie and Broderick, I wanted so much more.
Acquired via KU.
February 4, 2019
I’ve been salivating for Broderick’s book for a long time. A boy who’d once been pampered and then orphaned. He’d grown up on the streets of 7 Dials then made a name for himself in the Diggory gang. Now a proprietor and leader of London’s underworld, he was feared by many. A lot of people, characters and readers alike, didn’t like the choices and actions he made, thinking he put connections to Society before his own family. That his actions were driven by self-preservation. But I always believed he made those tough choices for the sake of his family. His family’s survival meant more to him than his own existence. And that’s abundantly clear in The Governess, #3 in Christi Caldwell’s Wicked Wallflower series. When Broderick faces retribution for past actions, he is literally brought to his knees, at risk of losing everything, clinging to the world he’d built with his bare hands. And in the face of that demise, all pride and all fear of failure fall away, leaving only what is truly important.
Regina Sparks had loved Broderick Killoran for years. He’d rescued her, a scared girl, from the streets of London. The Killoran family had become the family she’d lost. And she’d devoted her life to caring for the Killoran children and working as Broderick’s assistant. But he’d never seen her as anything more than that role and so Reggie was making plans to leave, start her own business venture with the help of other Devil’s Den employees.
Broderick had always trusted and relied on Reggie. He counted her as his friend and confidante. Theirs was an easy, comfortable relationship. When suddenly he starts to see her as more, not an employee, not a friend, but a beautiful and desirable woman, he’s confused and unsettled. He couldn’t lust over someone in his employ. That would make him as vile as his father had been. And when Broderick discovers Reggie’s business plans, he feels betrayed. With anyone else, he would destroy them, send them away. But he couldn’t toss Reggie out with her knowing everything she did. What is it they say about keeping your friends close and your enemies closer?
But Reggie is no longer the meek, timid girl Broderick had rescued 10 years ago. Broderick had helped her see her own strength and worth, and she’d transformed into someone indomitable. Broderick didn’t know how fearless and spirited she was. Unlike others, who cowered in his presence, Reggie was unafraid, undaunted, and breathtaking in her fury. What follows is a seductive battle of wills with long buried secrets revealed. And Broderick finds himself facing more than the inevitable loss of power, wealth, and control. He faces losing a dream he’d not known he had till Reggie.
I have been intrigued by Broderick Killoran for so long and this book made me fall head over heels for him. He’d endured so much to get to the point where he was. There was nothing he wouldn’t do to ensure his family was cared for. For him, that meant giving them the security not afforded to those outside the illustrious ranks of the peerage. Even facing his demise, assuring his family had a safe and secure place in the world was his only concern. That meant finding a suitor for Gertrude, the last of his sisters. For Broderick, wealth, power, and connections were what defined a person. He’d lived so long by that belief. But you can live your whole life without realizing what’s right in front of you, and it took the threat of losing it all for Broderick to realize that none of it mattered without Reggie there to share it.
I absolutely adored Reggie. What a fearless, courageous woman! Her business venture was a means of self-preservation, not greed. And I loved that she chose a business that would help to empower women who were presented no options in life. She had such a loving spirit. Even when being cut from the fabric of the Killoran family, she risked entering a world she’d vowed to never set foot in again, facing the greatest mistake of her life to protect Gertrude. She bore the mistrust and scorn of those she called family and still wanted to help them. Even with the tension between she and Broderick, and the mistrust of the Killoran family, she’d not sow seeds of discontent among them.
For all Broderick and Reggie had shared over the years, most of who they really were remained a mystery to the other. It took courage and trust to share their pasts with one another. I ached for Reggie when I read what had happened to her as a girl. I ached even more for her as she confessed it all to Broderick. I ached for Broderick when he realized how empty his life had been. The fear that he’d let his siblings down. The sheer terror of all he faced was painful to read but it helped him realize the man he wanted to be. What truly defined a man.
I adore anything Christi Caldwell writes. Her stories are timeless, vibrant, and memorable. They’re more than love stories. They’re life stories. She captures all the variations of emotions from pure joy to the darkest moments of the human condition. The emotional message and the way the characters’ stories culminate are cathartic and inspiring. These stories can hit you in the gut and leave you dissolving in a puddle of tears, but the ending feels so much more satisfying knowing what the characters have gone through to get to their HEA.
Fans of Christi Caldwell and this series will be thrilled with Broderick and Reggie’s story. For those who haven’t read Christi Caldwell before, if you haven’t bawled over one of her stories, you haven’t lived.
Regina Sparks had loved Broderick Killoran for years. He’d rescued her, a scared girl, from the streets of London. The Killoran family had become the family she’d lost. And she’d devoted her life to caring for the Killoran children and working as Broderick’s assistant. But he’d never seen her as anything more than that role and so Reggie was making plans to leave, start her own business venture with the help of other Devil’s Den employees.
Broderick had always trusted and relied on Reggie. He counted her as his friend and confidante. Theirs was an easy, comfortable relationship. When suddenly he starts to see her as more, not an employee, not a friend, but a beautiful and desirable woman, he’s confused and unsettled. He couldn’t lust over someone in his employ. That would make him as vile as his father had been. And when Broderick discovers Reggie’s business plans, he feels betrayed. With anyone else, he would destroy them, send them away. But he couldn’t toss Reggie out with her knowing everything she did. What is it they say about keeping your friends close and your enemies closer?
But Reggie is no longer the meek, timid girl Broderick had rescued 10 years ago. Broderick had helped her see her own strength and worth, and she’d transformed into someone indomitable. Broderick didn’t know how fearless and spirited she was. Unlike others, who cowered in his presence, Reggie was unafraid, undaunted, and breathtaking in her fury. What follows is a seductive battle of wills with long buried secrets revealed. And Broderick finds himself facing more than the inevitable loss of power, wealth, and control. He faces losing a dream he’d not known he had till Reggie.
I have been intrigued by Broderick Killoran for so long and this book made me fall head over heels for him. He’d endured so much to get to the point where he was. There was nothing he wouldn’t do to ensure his family was cared for. For him, that meant giving them the security not afforded to those outside the illustrious ranks of the peerage. Even facing his demise, assuring his family had a safe and secure place in the world was his only concern. That meant finding a suitor for Gertrude, the last of his sisters. For Broderick, wealth, power, and connections were what defined a person. He’d lived so long by that belief. But you can live your whole life without realizing what’s right in front of you, and it took the threat of losing it all for Broderick to realize that none of it mattered without Reggie there to share it.
I absolutely adored Reggie. What a fearless, courageous woman! Her business venture was a means of self-preservation, not greed. And I loved that she chose a business that would help to empower women who were presented no options in life. She had such a loving spirit. Even when being cut from the fabric of the Killoran family, she risked entering a world she’d vowed to never set foot in again, facing the greatest mistake of her life to protect Gertrude. She bore the mistrust and scorn of those she called family and still wanted to help them. Even with the tension between she and Broderick, and the mistrust of the Killoran family, she’d not sow seeds of discontent among them.
For all Broderick and Reggie had shared over the years, most of who they really were remained a mystery to the other. It took courage and trust to share their pasts with one another. I ached for Reggie when I read what had happened to her as a girl. I ached even more for her as she confessed it all to Broderick. I ached for Broderick when he realized how empty his life had been. The fear that he’d let his siblings down. The sheer terror of all he faced was painful to read but it helped him realize the man he wanted to be. What truly defined a man.
I adore anything Christi Caldwell writes. Her stories are timeless, vibrant, and memorable. They’re more than love stories. They’re life stories. She captures all the variations of emotions from pure joy to the darkest moments of the human condition. The emotional message and the way the characters’ stories culminate are cathartic and inspiring. These stories can hit you in the gut and leave you dissolving in a puddle of tears, but the ending feels so much more satisfying knowing what the characters have gone through to get to their HEA.
Fans of Christi Caldwell and this series will be thrilled with Broderick and Reggie’s story. For those who haven’t read Christi Caldwell before, if you haven’t bawled over one of her stories, you haven’t lived.
May 8, 2019
The Governess is Christi Caldwell’s third novel in her Wicked Wallflowers series, centred around the Killoran family. An unconventional family, to say the least, they are bonded by their connection to the streets than by blood. Broderick Killoran, the head of this de factor family and the gambling proprietor of popular Devil’s Den, is the hero of the story. Reggie Spark, his right-hand woman, has loved him from afar for a good while now, but she’s recently decided to do something else with her life than pine for him. That something else is to set up a music hall with a female colleague, Clara, a few blocks down from Devil’s Den.
At this point, the reader might think, ok there’s a lot here we can work with. This is a good place to start. We can play with this.
But there’s more.
The Killoran family is part of Diggory’s gang, and Diggory resorted to recruiting street urchins and stealing children to add to his numbers. Under Diggory’s command, Broderick ordered the kidnapping of a child but unbeknownst to him, his henchmen decided to steal a marquess’s son. One time where creativity and overdelivering do not count in one's favour. Unfortunately, that nobleman has discovered where his son went and he’s not too happy with Broderick for taking his only heir.
Broderick knows there is no hope of escape for him but he can save his family. And he does so in the only way he knows how. Marry his sister off to the gentry! Because that went so well the first two times he tried that, but you've got to give the guy credit. He's committed to his vision, and who knows- third time's the charm. However, for his sister, Gertrude, to agree to this scheme, he has to convince Reggie to be her governess.
Unfortunately, that's the last thing Reggie wants.
Unfortunately for Reggie, Broderick discovers she's leaving to set up shop across the street. So he's not really asking her, at this point.
Mind you this is still technically the set-up of the story, and so I just wonder whether Caldwell may have been too ambitious with The Governess. Very interesting set-up but it feels like two plots in one, and that boils down to the gigantic leaps of faith the reader is required to take for not only Broderick but the mad marquess.
The only way Broderick can save his family from going down with him is by ensuring Gertrude, his single and partially blind sister is protected by a title. Not only that, but he requires Reggie to make it happen. This is the best way he can save his family?
We also have to believe the marquess is plotting his revenge but other than the note he writes to Broderick, he's a nonentity.
If a reader feels "I don't know what's going on", it'd better be because they don't know where they are going and they love it, and not because it doesn't make sense. The plot is a run-on sentence, with bloated discoveries added on as an afterthought. For example, Reggie finds her brother in the employ of the mad marquess but the discovery ends up landing flat. The music hall is also dropped as a plot device, and it would have been lovely to close the loop in an epilogue, perhaps, where Reggie and Broderick launch the grand opening of the music hall together.
And I haven't mentioned Reggie's past! If I read one more story featuring a spinster who runs away from her past to escape a life of forced sex work, I'm calling bingo. Reggie has an intriguing past, but there was a lot of ground to cover and this was a blip between the marquess and the music hall.
A vanilla HR that FYI only contains one nude scene, the Governess has a twisty turny plot but it's a precarious house of cards.
At this point, the reader might think, ok there’s a lot here we can work with. This is a good place to start. We can play with this.
But there’s more.
The Killoran family is part of Diggory’s gang, and Diggory resorted to recruiting street urchins and stealing children to add to his numbers. Under Diggory’s command, Broderick ordered the kidnapping of a child but unbeknownst to him, his henchmen decided to steal a marquess’s son. One time where creativity and overdelivering do not count in one's favour. Unfortunately, that nobleman has discovered where his son went and he’s not too happy with Broderick for taking his only heir.
Broderick knows there is no hope of escape for him but he can save his family. And he does so in the only way he knows how. Marry his sister off to the gentry! Because that went so well the first two times he tried that, but you've got to give the guy credit. He's committed to his vision, and who knows- third time's the charm. However, for his sister, Gertrude, to agree to this scheme, he has to convince Reggie to be her governess.
Unfortunately, that's the last thing Reggie wants.
Unfortunately for Reggie, Broderick discovers she's leaving to set up shop across the street. So he's not really asking her, at this point.
Mind you this is still technically the set-up of the story, and so I just wonder whether Caldwell may have been too ambitious with The Governess. Very interesting set-up but it feels like two plots in one, and that boils down to the gigantic leaps of faith the reader is required to take for not only Broderick but the mad marquess.
The only way Broderick can save his family from going down with him is by ensuring Gertrude, his single and partially blind sister is protected by a title. Not only that, but he requires Reggie to make it happen. This is the best way he can save his family?
We also have to believe the marquess is plotting his revenge but other than the note he writes to Broderick, he's a nonentity.
If a reader feels "I don't know what's going on", it'd better be because they don't know where they are going and they love it, and not because it doesn't make sense. The plot is a run-on sentence, with bloated discoveries added on as an afterthought. For example, Reggie finds her brother in the employ of the mad marquess but the discovery ends up landing flat. The music hall is also dropped as a plot device, and it would have been lovely to close the loop in an epilogue, perhaps, where Reggie and Broderick launch the grand opening of the music hall together.
And I haven't mentioned Reggie's past! If I read one more story featuring a spinster who runs away from her past to escape a life of forced sex work, I'm calling bingo. Reggie has an intriguing past, but there was a lot of ground to cover and this was a blip between the marquess and the music hall.
A vanilla HR that FYI only contains one nude scene, the Governess has a twisty turny plot but it's a precarious house of cards.
April 4, 2020
Going in I wasn´t sure I would like this one since I wasn´t a big fan of Broderick Killoran in the previous books. I decided to read it anyway so I would read them all in the right order because I´ve been looking forward to read Gertrude´s story but knew I couldn´t skip this one.
But I must say this one was a pleasant surprise and I liked it far more than I thought I would, I really enjoyed it.
But I must say this one was a pleasant surprise and I liked it far more than I thought I would, I really enjoyed it.
February 20, 2019
Strong wills clash!
The Killoran's charge towards respectability continues in this latest Wicked Wallflowers entry. Or rather Broderick Killoran's plans for protection for his sisters by marrying them off to the ton is first and foremost on his to do list.
This time it's Gertrude turn and it seems another member of the family is to take part as Gertrude companion. Except the companion wants no part of the scheme and Broderick won't take no for an answer.
The once easy friendship between Broderick and Reggie (Regina Spark), Broderick's trusted lieutenant in all Devil Den's dealings, and keeper of Broderick's secrets, becomes all out war.
Secrets are exposed and feelings deeply hidden.
Just as Broderick is convinced he's right, he realizes he's wronged Reggie deeply and now there be no way back. The score is nil all.
Reading and enjoyment level score is high fives all the way!
👋
A Montlake Romance ARC via NetGalley
The Killoran's charge towards respectability continues in this latest Wicked Wallflowers entry. Or rather Broderick Killoran's plans for protection for his sisters by marrying them off to the ton is first and foremost on his to do list.
This time it's Gertrude turn and it seems another member of the family is to take part as Gertrude companion. Except the companion wants no part of the scheme and Broderick won't take no for an answer.
The once easy friendship between Broderick and Reggie (Regina Spark), Broderick's trusted lieutenant in all Devil Den's dealings, and keeper of Broderick's secrets, becomes all out war.
Secrets are exposed and feelings deeply hidden.
Just as Broderick is convinced he's right, he realizes he's wronged Reggie deeply and now there be no way back. The score is nil all.
Reading and enjoyment level score is high fives all the way!
👋
A Montlake Romance ARC via NetGalley
February 11, 2019
I really liked Broderick and Reggie’s story. There is a lot of back story here and I think you can read as a stand-alone, but it’s much better if you read the series. This author can be hit or miss for me and this was definitely a hit. I laughed. I cried. I really enjoyed the fact that I didn’t have to read about the hero’s sexual past and what a rake he was. I’m frustrated that there wasn’t an epilogue but I am looking forward to the next in the series. Gertrude deserves a good story.
February 13, 2019
LOVED!!!!
Review now posted...
I have been wondering just who Broderick Killoran was since the Sinful Brides series. Admittedly, I had no love for him when I was nose-deep in that series. I had no love at all for the Killorans. But in the midst of reading The Hellion (book one) in the Wicked Wallflower series, I was almost...impressed...by him. He held his own with the Blacks. And that made me sit up and take notice. But throughout the first two books in this series, Broderick Killoran has remained a mystery to me. So when I realized The Governess would be his story - well, I was excited to get to find out exactly who this mysterious man was finally.
And let me tell you...he was NOT what I expected. I don't really know what I expected, but Christi Caldwell surprised me in the best of ways. Broderick was more complex than I ever gave him credit for. His love for his family ran deeply, and it was that love that drove his actions - not his greed as I had always suspected. How wrong I had been about him. The more I got to know him, the more I understood him, the more I fell in love with the man he'd become. But even he had a blind spot, and that blind spot was Regina (Reggie) whom he had rescued ten years prior. He had brought her to live with him and his 'family' in the heart of Seven Dials, the unseemly part of London, and offered her his protection. Over that ten year period, he saw Reggie only as a friend and a honorary member of his family.
Reggie, however, had fallen in love with Broderick and every day spent in his presence knowing that he would never see her as anything more than "friend" a piece of her heart would break, until eventually, Reggie decided she had to leave for her own sake, build a life of her own, dependent on no one. But leaving, starting her own way in the world, would be seen as a betrayal to Broderick, yet she did so anyway, hoping against hope he would understand. He didn't. Because he thought she was leaving him to start a new business venture that would compete with his and she would rather him believe that than admit the whole truth. Their friendship, the thing that had held them together, unraveled, and thus it unraveled both Broderick and Reggie in the process. Adversaries now, Broderick and Reggie found themselves on unfamiliar ground. Broderick made demands of Reggie that was unfair in her eyes, just in his, and as the story unfolds they both dance around truths they dared ever to admit out loud--how much they truly cared for one another.
A truly emotional tale of friends turned enemies, friends again, and then...an ending that left me a little choked up. And through it all, the set up for the next book was taking place and I am eager to get my hands on it. I know from experience with Christi Caldwell not to doubt that she will deliver another emotional story, and I'm so curious to see how the next one plays out. Every book in this series gets better and better and I so need for Stephen to find his way back, shed that chip on his shoulder and become the person he was always meant to be. And I know it will have to begin with his father, who has so much hurt to overcome before that can happen. The last sister in the Killoran family will be the one to do it, but you have to wonder--how? I, for one, can't wait to find out.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Review now posted...
I have been wondering just who Broderick Killoran was since the Sinful Brides series. Admittedly, I had no love for him when I was nose-deep in that series. I had no love at all for the Killorans. But in the midst of reading The Hellion (book one) in the Wicked Wallflower series, I was almost...impressed...by him. He held his own with the Blacks. And that made me sit up and take notice. But throughout the first two books in this series, Broderick Killoran has remained a mystery to me. So when I realized The Governess would be his story - well, I was excited to get to find out exactly who this mysterious man was finally.
And let me tell you...he was NOT what I expected. I don't really know what I expected, but Christi Caldwell surprised me in the best of ways. Broderick was more complex than I ever gave him credit for. His love for his family ran deeply, and it was that love that drove his actions - not his greed as I had always suspected. How wrong I had been about him. The more I got to know him, the more I understood him, the more I fell in love with the man he'd become. But even he had a blind spot, and that blind spot was Regina (Reggie) whom he had rescued ten years prior. He had brought her to live with him and his 'family' in the heart of Seven Dials, the unseemly part of London, and offered her his protection. Over that ten year period, he saw Reggie only as a friend and a honorary member of his family.
Reggie, however, had fallen in love with Broderick and every day spent in his presence knowing that he would never see her as anything more than "friend" a piece of her heart would break, until eventually, Reggie decided she had to leave for her own sake, build a life of her own, dependent on no one. But leaving, starting her own way in the world, would be seen as a betrayal to Broderick, yet she did so anyway, hoping against hope he would understand. He didn't. Because he thought she was leaving him to start a new business venture that would compete with his and she would rather him believe that than admit the whole truth. Their friendship, the thing that had held them together, unraveled, and thus it unraveled both Broderick and Reggie in the process. Adversaries now, Broderick and Reggie found themselves on unfamiliar ground. Broderick made demands of Reggie that was unfair in her eyes, just in his, and as the story unfolds they both dance around truths they dared ever to admit out loud--how much they truly cared for one another.
A truly emotional tale of friends turned enemies, friends again, and then...an ending that left me a little choked up. And through it all, the set up for the next book was taking place and I am eager to get my hands on it. I know from experience with Christi Caldwell not to doubt that she will deliver another emotional story, and I'm so curious to see how the next one plays out. Every book in this series gets better and better and I so need for Stephen to find his way back, shed that chip on his shoulder and become the person he was always meant to be. And I know it will have to begin with his father, who has so much hurt to overcome before that can happen. The last sister in the Killoran family will be the one to do it, but you have to wonder--how? I, for one, can't wait to find out.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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June 21, 2020DNF
The language didn't get to me.
Writing style was not my cup of tea (very strange/weird).
The language didn't get to me.
Writing style was not my cup of tea (very strange/weird).
February 19, 2025
2.5 stars
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Objectively speaking, The Governess should have been an easy book to read and fall in love with. But I had a hard time getting into the story and just when I started liking it, the plot started falling apart bit by bit.
The Governess is an absolute slow burn romance, which is what I loved the most about the book. Unrequited love is a delicious trope if it’s done well and I think Christi Caldwell did a good job executing this trope in The Governess. Even though Reggie has been in love with Broderick for years, she knows that she has to move on with her life. I admire her strength and determination to move on and start her own business with a partner. As for Broderick, I was never a fan of him because of his desperate need to be connected to English aristocracy. He eventually realizes how wrong he was and I did end up liking him by the end of it.
Unfortunately, all of these positive aspects of the book could not make me fall in love with The Governess. The story felt so repetitive – the characters were constantly repeating their motivations to the reader in every single chapter. Reggie used to be extremely loyal and now she’s not. I get it. Reggie used to put the Killorans’ needs above hers. I get it. She needs to move on and be independent, which is why she’s building a music hall. I ALREADY KNOW THIS! Stop telling me over and over again!!!
What’s even more frustrating is the lack of communication between Reggie and Broderick even though we are supposed to believe that they are best friends and confide in each other. Not to mention the fact that Broderick didn't even bother questioning Reggie after her supposed betrayal and automatically assumed she was out to get him. Really? Isn't she supposed to be like family? Reggie also kept vacillating – one minute she’s extolling Broderick’s virtues and the next minute she’s ranting about how he’s a terrible brother. Make up your mind, woman. That’s not even the weakest point of the book. The book fails to establish a clear and linear timeline of the hero and heroine's pasts. Their pasts didn’t make sense to me up until the very last third of the book. Why did Reggie choose Broderick on the London Bridge? What was it about him? Lord Andover was briefly mentioned a few times – but his importance was never explained until the very end. I think The Governess needed some fleshed out flashback scenes, instead of the constant repetitive character motivations. It does not make sense to dump all of this background information 85% into the book.
There were also way too many conflicts that all conveniently converged together during the climax. On top of that, there were irrelevant scenes of Broderick at the theater when it was obvious he didn't need to be there at all. It was all to build the drama, which didn't even happen at the damn theatre. I feel like the author just pulled all of the plot lines together (Ex: Broderick looking for a bride, Reggie’s family, Maddox and Stephen, Broderick’s incoming downfall) in the last part of the book to just conveniently tie them together. Everything was just resolved so quickly - it was really messy and there was no epilogue on top of that!!
I really wanted to love this book because it has all the right ingredients. Unfortunately, it was poorly executed. I’ve liked Gertrude from book 1 so I’m interested to read her story. I hope I end up loving that one.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Objectively speaking, The Governess should have been an easy book to read and fall in love with. But I had a hard time getting into the story and just when I started liking it, the plot started falling apart bit by bit.
The Governess is an absolute slow burn romance, which is what I loved the most about the book. Unrequited love is a delicious trope if it’s done well and I think Christi Caldwell did a good job executing this trope in The Governess. Even though Reggie has been in love with Broderick for years, she knows that she has to move on with her life. I admire her strength and determination to move on and start her own business with a partner. As for Broderick, I was never a fan of him because of his desperate need to be connected to English aristocracy. He eventually realizes how wrong he was and I did end up liking him by the end of it.
Unfortunately, all of these positive aspects of the book could not make me fall in love with The Governess. The story felt so repetitive – the characters were constantly repeating their motivations to the reader in every single chapter. Reggie used to be extremely loyal and now she’s not. I get it. Reggie used to put the Killorans’ needs above hers. I get it. She needs to move on and be independent, which is why she’s building a music hall. I ALREADY KNOW THIS! Stop telling me over and over again!!!
What’s even more frustrating is the lack of communication between Reggie and Broderick even though we are supposed to believe that they are best friends and confide in each other. Not to mention the fact that Broderick didn't even bother questioning Reggie after her supposed betrayal and automatically assumed she was out to get him. Really? Isn't she supposed to be like family? Reggie also kept vacillating – one minute she’s extolling Broderick’s virtues and the next minute she’s ranting about how he’s a terrible brother. Make up your mind, woman. That’s not even the weakest point of the book. The book fails to establish a clear and linear timeline of the hero and heroine's pasts. Their pasts didn’t make sense to me up until the very last third of the book. Why did Reggie choose Broderick on the London Bridge? What was it about him? Lord Andover was briefly mentioned a few times – but his importance was never explained until the very end. I think The Governess needed some fleshed out flashback scenes, instead of the constant repetitive character motivations. It does not make sense to dump all of this background information 85% into the book.
There were also way too many conflicts that all conveniently converged together during the climax. On top of that, there were irrelevant scenes of Broderick at the theater when it was obvious he didn't need to be there at all. It was all to build the drama, which didn't even happen at the damn theatre. I feel like the author just pulled all of the plot lines together (Ex: Broderick looking for a bride, Reggie’s family, Maddox and Stephen, Broderick’s incoming downfall) in the last part of the book to just conveniently tie them together. Everything was just resolved so quickly - it was really messy and there was no epilogue on top of that!!
I really wanted to love this book because it has all the right ingredients. Unfortunately, it was poorly executed. I’ve liked Gertrude from book 1 so I’m interested to read her story. I hope I end up loving that one.
February 22, 2019
Another great story about the Killoran family. It's nice to finally get into Broderick's head and find out what motivates him. Reggie was a great heroine, just the right balance between strengths and vulnerabilities. The push and pull between them made perfect sense and everything happened when it needed to in terms of the plot. It's the perfect setup for Book 4, and I'm really looking forward to that one.
January 29, 2019
My goodness, this is my first Christi Caldwell book and I am amazed at how fast I was drawn in!! It is full of so much angst and awesome drama that my heart twisted and I bit my nails to the very end! Now, before you angsty-phobes out there brush this aside, let me assure you, it is not your typical whiny drama-type. It is serious destroy your life kind of drama that is brutally real while totally un-put-downable!
Broderick is such an anti-hero that one is not sure whether to love or hate him. His full-on loyalty to those he cares about, however, tips the scales in a big way. Regina is also a very strong character but in a much more subtle way. She doesn't yell and scream, she just quietly stands her ground.
That strong plus is also the story's biggest weakness, however. SO much of what happened could have been avoided if Regina would just have explained herself! It didn't even have to be a love declaration type - she could have told Broderick her plans for her new business and how much it would help people. OR, she could have explained at least a bit about her reasons for not wanting to go into London's society as a chaperone. It would not have taken a full confession, just some explanation so he could understand her feelings on these subjects! This non-communication is the only thing (yet is was a big thing) that stood in the way of a big five stars for me.
Everything else was pure historical yumminess!
Broderick is such an anti-hero that one is not sure whether to love or hate him. His full-on loyalty to those he cares about, however, tips the scales in a big way. Regina is also a very strong character but in a much more subtle way. She doesn't yell and scream, she just quietly stands her ground.
That strong plus is also the story's biggest weakness, however. SO much of what happened could have been avoided if Regina would just have explained herself! It didn't even have to be a love declaration type - she could have told Broderick her plans for her new business and how much it would help people. OR, she could have explained at least a bit about her reasons for not wanting to go into London's society as a chaperone. It would not have taken a full confession, just some explanation so he could understand her feelings on these subjects! This non-communication is the only thing (yet is was a big thing) that stood in the way of a big five stars for me.
Everything else was pure historical yumminess!
January 27, 2019
I absolutely loved this story! I'm always half charmed by stories with gambling houses even before reading the first page. Unfortunately sometimes I am disappointed. This is definitely not the case. And the fact that I started reading it with the idea that I might have not liked it because the heroine was already in love with the hero and not reciprocated (which it is a situation that I generally don't appreciate mush), made the final positive thoughts even stronger. It totally won me over!
I received an ARC of this novel. Thank you for the opportunity!
February 13, 2019
Regina and Broderick
This friends to enemies to lovers story delighted me from start to finish. I was riveted!
Broderick Killoran has been a man of mysterious origins since his first appearance as an antagonist and rival of the Hell and Sin Club owners. Over the course of two series, he has remained an enigma. This book reveals him more fully.
Regina Spark has lingered in the background as a trusted family retainer harboring an obvious tendre for her employer. Well, obvious to the reader, but not to the object of her affection.
This story picks up where the second in the series left off, so it is best read in order. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and anxiously await the next installment!
This friends to enemies to lovers story delighted me from start to finish. I was riveted!
Broderick Killoran has been a man of mysterious origins since his first appearance as an antagonist and rival of the Hell and Sin Club owners. Over the course of two series, he has remained an enigma. This book reveals him more fully.
Regina Spark has lingered in the background as a trusted family retainer harboring an obvious tendre for her employer. Well, obvious to the reader, but not to the object of her affection.
This story picks up where the second in the series left off, so it is best read in order. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and anxiously await the next installment!
January 17, 2019
WELL THIS WAS DELIGHTFUL. The heroine was A++, there was delightful pining to go around, and now all I want is Gertrude & Nobility Dad’s book (misnomer credit goes to Rachel). As always there was SO MUCH PLOT packed in here and I wish a few subplots had gotten more development (I would have loved the twist with Broderick and the Duchess yo have gone on a bit longer!), and I do wish there has been more action (vs buildup) re: the marquess’ revenge. Stephen was also a LITTLE SHIT THE WHOLE BOOK lord so let’s hope his attitude improves next book after having been shot.
NONETHELESS this sparked joy within me and that is what is important so yay.
NONETHELESS this sparked joy within me and that is what is important so yay.
January 20, 2019
3.5 stars.
Thanks to netgalley and Montlake Romance for the arc of this book!
Christi Caldwell isn't a new author to me, I have read a few of her books and they are some of my favorite historical romances. So when I was approved for the arc of The Governess, I was really happy.
I fell in love with Regina throughout the whole book and I came to admire her so much. I think she's definitely one of my favorite heroines from all the HR books I've read. Not many people would be able to handle the hand she was dealt. I wish we had gotten more of her building up her dream aka the music hall and actually seen her basking in her success.
I must say my rating has a lot to do with the way the storyline went. I think that the conflict between Regina and Broderick was way too drawn out. It was almost at the end when Broderick finally came to his senses and found out the whole truth about why Regina wanted to leave and what she wanted to do. If that happened at least at the 60% mark we would have seen more of them growing as a couple and building music hall and turning Regina's dream into reality. I would have gladly given 5 stars if that happened. I still enjoyed the book and it was such a page turner but I just wish we got to see more of this than Broderick being an ass most of the book.
I'm so intrigued by the next book because apparently Gertrude is going to end up with Stephen's dad and when I think about that my brain is like 'can't compute'.
Thanks to netgalley and Montlake Romance for the arc of this book!
Christi Caldwell isn't a new author to me, I have read a few of her books and they are some of my favorite historical romances. So when I was approved for the arc of The Governess, I was really happy.
I fell in love with Regina throughout the whole book and I came to admire her so much. I think she's definitely one of my favorite heroines from all the HR books I've read. Not many people would be able to handle the hand she was dealt. I wish we had gotten more of her building up her dream aka the music hall and actually seen her basking in her success.
I must say my rating has a lot to do with the way the storyline went. I think that the conflict between Regina and Broderick was way too drawn out. It was almost at the end when Broderick finally came to his senses and found out the whole truth about why Regina wanted to leave and what she wanted to do. If that happened at least at the 60% mark we would have seen more of them growing as a couple and building music hall and turning Regina's dream into reality. I would have gladly given 5 stars if that happened. I still enjoyed the book and it was such a page turner but I just wish we got to see more of this than Broderick being an ass most of the book.
I'm so intrigued by the next book because apparently Gertrude is going to end up with Stephen's dad and when I think about that my brain is like 'can't compute'.
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February 13, 2019There were several moments early on in this book where I badly wanted to smack Broderick Killoran upside the head for being an arrogant, judgemental idiot. I’m glad I stuck with it, though, because he actually listened to his sisters and the heroine telling him he was wrong and tried to do better.
If you haven’t read The Vixen and The Hellion, the previous two books in the Wicked Wallflowers series, you’re going to come into this one seriously confused as to who everyone is. I have read those two books, and I still occasionally got muddled as to who was who. One important character recurs a lot, though, and that’s the boy Stephen, the adopted younger brother of the Killoran siblings who turns out to be the kidnapped son of a marquis. The Governess is where that years-old crime comes home to roost, with Stephen’s father looking to exact vengeance and Broderick being the only available target. Broderick spends most of the book pretty sure he’s going to hang for past sins and desperately trying to protect those he cares about from the fallout.
Regina, the heroine, has her own past troubles which come back to haunt her, in the shape of a (different) nobleman who once used her ill and cast her aside. He tries a bit of blackmail to get Reggie to fall in with his nefarious plans, and for a dreadful moment I thought she was going to be TSTL and not tell anyone about it, but to my relief Reggie promptly blabbed to all and sundry, leading to her nemesis getting a highly satisfying comeuppance and Broderick confronting his feelings for her at the same time.
There’s a very satisfying conclusion to this romance when Reggie discovers a family connection which can help get her in through the door to see the vengeful nobleman, and a lovely gesture by Broderick which demonstrates just how far he’s come from the arrogant a** he was at the start of the book. Stick with this one even though you may want to strangle him in the beginning, I promise, the payoff really is worth it. Five stars.
Disclaimer; I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
If you haven’t read The Vixen and The Hellion, the previous two books in the Wicked Wallflowers series, you’re going to come into this one seriously confused as to who everyone is. I have read those two books, and I still occasionally got muddled as to who was who. One important character recurs a lot, though, and that’s the boy Stephen, the adopted younger brother of the Killoran siblings who turns out to be the kidnapped son of a marquis. The Governess is where that years-old crime comes home to roost, with Stephen’s father looking to exact vengeance and Broderick being the only available target. Broderick spends most of the book pretty sure he’s going to hang for past sins and desperately trying to protect those he cares about from the fallout.
Regina, the heroine, has her own past troubles which come back to haunt her, in the shape of a (different) nobleman who once used her ill and cast her aside. He tries a bit of blackmail to get Reggie to fall in with his nefarious plans, and for a dreadful moment I thought she was going to be TSTL and not tell anyone about it, but to my relief Reggie promptly blabbed to all and sundry, leading to her nemesis getting a highly satisfying comeuppance and Broderick confronting his feelings for her at the same time.
There’s a very satisfying conclusion to this romance when Reggie discovers a family connection which can help get her in through the door to see the vengeful nobleman, and a lovely gesture by Broderick which demonstrates just how far he’s come from the arrogant a** he was at the start of the book. Stick with this one even though you may want to strangle him in the beginning, I promise, the payoff really is worth it. Five stars.
Disclaimer; I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
February 6, 2019
This was my first Christi Caldwell novel, but it sure aint hell gonna be the last. The book 3 of The Wicked Wallflower series was a delight and has made me a fan of the author. I had not read the previous books, and even though I was a little lost in the beginning, I enjoyed the book thoroughly.
The book centers around a gambling den owner Broderick Killoran and his assistant Regina 'Reggie' Spark. The Killoran clan, unrelated by blood, has grown up in the streets of Seven Dials, amidst thievery, deceit and the lust for power.
At the beginning of the book, two out of the five Killoran siblings are married, and they have also discovered that their youngest brother Stephen, who's 11, is actually the son of a marquess. Broderick is now desperate to secure a future for his sister before he is sent to the gallows for crimes he didn't commit. Reggie, on the other hand, has been in love with Broderick since he rescued her ten years ago, and has decided its time to get out from under his influence. Her dream to open a music hall looms near, and she's worried about her betrayal of opening a rival entertainment place will be received by her boss.
Caldwell builds a story that is not solely based on romance. Even though it is the most integral part, the family elements loom strong, giving the book a stronger backbone. The backstories of the character are raw. Reggie has to be my favourite character in the book, and a heroine I admire. Strong, resilient and passionate, Reggie proved to be surprisingly interesting. Broderick, in the ways of historicals, was handsome, devilish and seductive. He was slow to realize how he felt, but when he did, it went from zero to hot soon.
Overall, it was a great book. and I cannot wait for the next book featuring the eldest Killoran sister and Stephen's father, the mad marquess.
I received an advanced copy and have chosen to review it on my own will. All comments are mine, and have no influence from anybody.
The book centers around a gambling den owner Broderick Killoran and his assistant Regina 'Reggie' Spark. The Killoran clan, unrelated by blood, has grown up in the streets of Seven Dials, amidst thievery, deceit and the lust for power.
At the beginning of the book, two out of the five Killoran siblings are married, and they have also discovered that their youngest brother Stephen, who's 11, is actually the son of a marquess. Broderick is now desperate to secure a future for his sister before he is sent to the gallows for crimes he didn't commit. Reggie, on the other hand, has been in love with Broderick since he rescued her ten years ago, and has decided its time to get out from under his influence. Her dream to open a music hall looms near, and she's worried about her betrayal of opening a rival entertainment place will be received by her boss.
Caldwell builds a story that is not solely based on romance. Even though it is the most integral part, the family elements loom strong, giving the book a stronger backbone. The backstories of the character are raw. Reggie has to be my favourite character in the book, and a heroine I admire. Strong, resilient and passionate, Reggie proved to be surprisingly interesting. Broderick, in the ways of historicals, was handsome, devilish and seductive. He was slow to realize how he felt, but when he did, it went from zero to hot soon.
Overall, it was a great book. and I cannot wait for the next book featuring the eldest Killoran sister and Stephen's father, the mad marquess.
I received an advanced copy and have chosen to review it on my own will. All comments are mine, and have no influence from anybody.
April 7, 2019
DNF at 30%.
This book was a contradiction in what it told the reader versus what it showed. The author outlined certain character traits for the main players that just seem to be very inconstant with their actions. For instance, our hero, Broderick Killoran, is described as ruthlessly cunning, using his street smarts to run his own notorious gaming hell, his name known and feared by everyone. So in my head, I pictured him as a Victorian-era version of Kaz Brekker from Six of Crows duology. However, apart from the first couple of pages when we are introduced to him, Broderick seldom comes off as such. At best, he seems to be a bit of a mess, playing at living up to his name. But really, no one is buying it. Everyone from his household staff to his adoptive brother talk over him. Broderick also is very easily persuaded to do things that he seems to be adamantly against in just a few minutes.
Similarly, Reggie is supposed to be Broderick's savvy, right hand managing the gaming den's when Broderick is absent. But she just comes across as an idiot for the most part. Her whole idea of taking the women to work as performers by setting up her own establishment sounds good at first but really comes off as underhanded since she is basically just taking Broderick's connections for herself and is consumed with guilt about what he would think.
I tried, but this book is just not for me. I don't like any of the characters and the plot is boring me to tears. 2 Stars.
This book was a contradiction in what it told the reader versus what it showed. The author outlined certain character traits for the main players that just seem to be very inconstant with their actions. For instance, our hero, Broderick Killoran, is described as ruthlessly cunning, using his street smarts to run his own notorious gaming hell, his name known and feared by everyone. So in my head, I pictured him as a Victorian-era version of Kaz Brekker from Six of Crows duology. However, apart from the first couple of pages when we are introduced to him, Broderick seldom comes off as such. At best, he seems to be a bit of a mess, playing at living up to his name. But really, no one is buying it. Everyone from his household staff to his adoptive brother talk over him. Broderick also is very easily persuaded to do things that he seems to be adamantly against in just a few minutes.
Similarly, Reggie is supposed to be Broderick's savvy, right hand managing the gaming den's when Broderick is absent. But she just comes across as an idiot for the most part. Her whole idea of taking the women to work as performers by setting up her own establishment sounds good at first but really comes off as underhanded since she is basically just taking Broderick's connections for herself and is consumed with guilt about what he would think.
I tried, but this book is just not for me. I don't like any of the characters and the plot is boring me to tears. 2 Stars.
February 14, 2019
I have become a great fan of Christi Caldwell’s delightful Regency romances. When I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, to read and review The Governess, I eagerly accepted. My opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.
The Governess is another wonderful Regency with just the right amount of detail, giving me the ability to use my imagination. The pacing is great, moving the story along perfectly. The characters are engaging, and the plot riveting. I thoroughly enjoy suspense and this one has it in abundance.
Reggie’s character is easy to love. She has been part of the Killoran family for ten years, but she can no longer remain at Broderick’s side when she knows he will never return her feelings. When he learns she plans to leave, he bribes her into staying to help his sister in her introduction to society. My heart ached for Reggie. Most of the family turns against making her time with them very uncomfortable.
Broderick is a great hero, having the characteristics I love most. He is a stronger provider for his family. While they are not family by blood, it does not matter. He is a very complex character and his backstory is very heartbreaking. I was so pleased that he found his happy ending!
The chemistry between Reggie and Broderick is amazing. Ms. Caldwell is great at building the sexual tension as the story progresses, which what I love about historical romance. By the time the love scene occurs, it is burning up the pages.
If you enjoy a romance with great characters, an interesting plot with a good bit of suspense and great emotionally-charged writing, then you will love The Governess. This may very well be the best book she has written thus far. Of course, I said that about her last one! I can’t wait for the next book is this amazing series. Happy reading!
Loved this book so much, I downloaded the audio version, loved it. Narrator is outstanding!
The Governess is another wonderful Regency with just the right amount of detail, giving me the ability to use my imagination. The pacing is great, moving the story along perfectly. The characters are engaging, and the plot riveting. I thoroughly enjoy suspense and this one has it in abundance.
Reggie’s character is easy to love. She has been part of the Killoran family for ten years, but she can no longer remain at Broderick’s side when she knows he will never return her feelings. When he learns she plans to leave, he bribes her into staying to help his sister in her introduction to society. My heart ached for Reggie. Most of the family turns against making her time with them very uncomfortable.
Broderick is a great hero, having the characteristics I love most. He is a stronger provider for his family. While they are not family by blood, it does not matter. He is a very complex character and his backstory is very heartbreaking. I was so pleased that he found his happy ending!
The chemistry between Reggie and Broderick is amazing. Ms. Caldwell is great at building the sexual tension as the story progresses, which what I love about historical romance. By the time the love scene occurs, it is burning up the pages.
If you enjoy a romance with great characters, an interesting plot with a good bit of suspense and great emotionally-charged writing, then you will love The Governess. This may very well be the best book she has written thus far. Of course, I said that about her last one! I can’t wait for the next book is this amazing series. Happy reading!
Loved this book so much, I downloaded the audio version, loved it. Narrator is outstanding!
February 11, 2019
The Governess by Christi Caldwell is book Three in the Wicked Wallflowers Series. This is the story of Broderick Killoran and Regina (Reggie) Spark. I have read the previous books (and Loved them!) but feel if you wish to do so you can make this a standalone book. Kids on the street of Seven Dials were taken in by Diggory who by all accounts was a truly awful person...luckily he is dead. But those kids turned into family and help each other when they could. Broderick stood up to take in and protect his fellow street family and has been ruthless in business keep things going. Reggie was one he had taken in and she has been his partner in running the Devil’s Den. But now she is looking to go out on her own to open a music hall. This upsets Broderick who starts to feel betrayed but at the same time it starts to open his eyes to Reggie. Reggie has always loved Broderick but can this bring them together or pull them apart? I am such a mega fan of Ms. Caldwell's writing. Ms. Caldwell's books take you on a emotional roller coaster ride from happy to sad to love. Loved this book!
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