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The Outcasts #2
Barbarous
He could be her ruin
Hugh Redvers is supposed to be dead. So the appearance of the sun-bronzed giant with the piratical black eye patch is deeply disturbing to Lady Daphne Davenport. And her instant attraction to the notorious privateer is not only wildly inappropriate for a proper widow but potentially disastrous. Because he is also the man Daphne has secretly cheated of title, lands, and fortune.
She could be his salvation
Daphne Redvers’ distant, untouchable beauty and eminently touchable body are hard enough to resist. But the prim, almost severe, way she looks at him suggests this might be the one woman who can make him forget all the others. His only challenge? Unearthing the enemy who threatens her life . . . and uncovering the secrets in her cool blue eyes.
Hugh Redvers is supposed to be dead. So the appearance of the sun-bronzed giant with the piratical black eye patch is deeply disturbing to Lady Daphne Davenport. And her instant attraction to the notorious privateer is not only wildly inappropriate for a proper widow but potentially disastrous. Because he is also the man Daphne has secretly cheated of title, lands, and fortune.
She could be his salvation
Daphne Redvers’ distant, untouchable beauty and eminently touchable body are hard enough to resist. But the prim, almost severe, way she looks at him suggests this might be the one woman who can make him forget all the others. His only challenge? Unearthing the enemy who threatens her life . . . and uncovering the secrets in her cool blue eyes.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2018
About the author
Minerva Spencer
52 books1,802 followers**I ONLY RATE BOOKS I REALLY ENJOYED**.
Before I began writing I spent time as a dock worker, a reader for the blind, a criminal prosecutor, and I taught American History on the college level for five years. My last job was running an 8-bedroom bed and breakfast, a subject I will never write about...
I like historical fiction because I enjoy escaping into the past when I relax. And I write romance because I love a happy ending and everything that happens along the way.
I came to writing late in life and I feel like I have to write fast to catch up! I work every day at a desk looking out over the Sangre de Cristo mountains, my free range birds, and my three flock protecting hounds Earl, Spot, and Rover.
When I'm not writing I'm playing with my animals, knitting, DIYing, crocheting, sewing, or watching old movies.
I also write historical romance and erotic romance under the name S.M. LaViolette and historical mystery under the name S.M. Goodwin.
Before I began writing I spent time as a dock worker, a reader for the blind, a criminal prosecutor, and I taught American History on the college level for five years. My last job was running an 8-bedroom bed and breakfast, a subject I will never write about...
I like historical fiction because I enjoy escaping into the past when I relax. And I write romance because I love a happy ending and everything that happens along the way.
I came to writing late in life and I feel like I have to write fast to catch up! I work every day at a desk looking out over the Sangre de Cristo mountains, my free range birds, and my three flock protecting hounds Earl, Spot, and Rover.
When I'm not writing I'm playing with my animals, knitting, DIYing, crocheting, sewing, or watching old movies.
I also write historical romance and erotic romance under the name S.M. LaViolette and historical mystery under the name S.M. Goodwin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
September 20, 2018
4.5 Stars
A very good read. I enjoyed it despite this reading funk I am in. Events from this book run parallel to the first in series, and you definitely do not need to read the first to read this one. This is the stronger of the two by quite a bit, in my opinion. It featured well drawn and compelling characters, spot on pacing and just the right amount of sensuality.
Daphne is a widow with twin 10 year old sons. By marriage, she is the hero’s aunt (and the author does address the legal implications of that situation). Her husband was her senior by about 50 years, so their marriage caused somewhat of a scandal. As a result, she does not move in society much, which suits her and her philosophical studious mind just fine. However, not long after her husband’s death, she starts being blackmailed and a tormentor from her past has resurfaces with nefarious plans. The reader first meets Daphne just after she has fended herself from her tormentor’s advances in a fairly open, public place. In rides Hugh, who has been gone nearly 20 years and assumed dead, to find her in a disheveled state, drawing the attention of the boys off playing, and she handles the situation marvelously. I liked her immediately.
Hugh, oh my goodness, Hugh. Such a compelling hero. Loved him. He has a piratical look, fitting given his occupation, and he is strong and confident. He steals the scene every time, though Daphne is well matched to his over powering presence. He was the perfect sort of hero, while magnetizing and commanding, he also listens and has patience. He also has a revenge subplot that is mentioned, though not explored overmuch until the end. I thought this might be one of the weaker aspects, but when it turned that direction, I enjoyed the characters. The villain of the revenge plot was particularly intriguing, and I would not have minded more page time for him — this is an odd sentiment coming from me.
One of my only complaints is that it took place entirely in England. It was very good regardless, but when there is a seafaring hero, I do like it when they spend some time sea faring and visiting distant lands.
This story captured my attention from the beginning and didn’t let go. I am now looking forward to the next installment!
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A very good read. I enjoyed it despite this reading funk I am in. Events from this book run parallel to the first in series, and you definitely do not need to read the first to read this one. This is the stronger of the two by quite a bit, in my opinion. It featured well drawn and compelling characters, spot on pacing and just the right amount of sensuality.
Daphne is a widow with twin 10 year old sons. By marriage, she is the hero’s aunt (and the author does address the legal implications of that situation). Her husband was her senior by about 50 years, so their marriage caused somewhat of a scandal. As a result, she does not move in society much, which suits her and her philosophical studious mind just fine. However, not long after her husband’s death, she starts being blackmailed and a tormentor from her past has resurfaces with nefarious plans. The reader first meets Daphne just after she has fended herself from her tormentor’s advances in a fairly open, public place. In rides Hugh, who has been gone nearly 20 years and assumed dead, to find her in a disheveled state, drawing the attention of the boys off playing, and she handles the situation marvelously. I liked her immediately.
Hugh, oh my goodness, Hugh. Such a compelling hero. Loved him. He has a piratical look, fitting given his occupation, and he is strong and confident. He steals the scene every time, though Daphne is well matched to his over powering presence. He was the perfect sort of hero, while magnetizing and commanding, he also listens and has patience. He also has a revenge subplot that is mentioned, though not explored overmuch until the end. I thought this might be one of the weaker aspects, but when it turned that direction, I enjoyed the characters. The villain of the revenge plot was particularly intriguing, and I would not have minded more page time for him — this is an odd sentiment coming from me.
One of my only complaints is that it took place entirely in England. It was very good regardless, but when there is a seafaring hero, I do like it when they spend some time sea faring and visiting distant lands.
This story captured my attention from the beginning and didn’t let go. I am now looking forward to the next installment!
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2018
I discussed Barbarous with fellow All About Romance reviewers Lisa and Shannon. I gave it an A-, and our conversation is here: Barbarous.
September 9, 2018
Barbarous by Minerva Spencer is the follow up to her first release Dangerous - and readers, it is just as good! The dashing pirate Hugh has more than met his match when he meets his widowed aunt (by marriage) Daphne.
Daphne's husband (Hugh's uncle who raised him) believed Hugh was dead at sea years ago. Hugh only returned because he believed Daphne may be in danger. In fact, when he first meets Daphne her dress is torn and he may have interrupted an assault on her person.
Daphne is struggling with a secret, one that could possibly hurt Hugh and she feels terrible about it. Daphne is a good person and she is determined to tell Hugh the truth even though it will hurt her and her twin sons. But she likes Hugh, she realizes that she is also attracted to him. She knows he will never be attracted to a bookish, boring widow like her.
Hugh wants Daphne and he wants to keep her safe, he just has to convince her of these facts. Mia (from Dangerous) makes an appearance and rattles Daphne's growing belief in her attractiveness and possible future with Hugh.
Sigh, these two have chemistry that is off the charts. Daphne and Hugh may not match (or so she believes) on paper but they compliment each other perfectly. This book certainly has some steamy times and lots of emotions for both Hugh and Daphne to work through. Highly recommended. Ms. Spencer has quickly become a favorite of mine.
Daphne's husband (Hugh's uncle who raised him) believed Hugh was dead at sea years ago. Hugh only returned because he believed Daphne may be in danger. In fact, when he first meets Daphne her dress is torn and he may have interrupted an assault on her person.
Daphne is struggling with a secret, one that could possibly hurt Hugh and she feels terrible about it. Daphne is a good person and she is determined to tell Hugh the truth even though it will hurt her and her twin sons. But she likes Hugh, she realizes that she is also attracted to him. She knows he will never be attracted to a bookish, boring widow like her.
Hugh wants Daphne and he wants to keep her safe, he just has to convince her of these facts. Mia (from Dangerous) makes an appearance and rattles Daphne's growing belief in her attractiveness and possible future with Hugh.
Sigh, these two have chemistry that is off the charts. Daphne and Hugh may not match (or so she believes) on paper but they compliment each other perfectly. This book certainly has some steamy times and lots of emotions for both Hugh and Daphne to work through. Highly recommended. Ms. Spencer has quickly become a favorite of mine.
September 14, 2018
Hugh Redvers has returned home. He wants nothing to do with the title that is rightfully his. Hugh is only there to protect his late uncle's widow, Lady Daphne. It seems someone has been making threats and if Hugh knows one thing, it is how to get vengeance.
Daphne feels guilty that her sons will inherit what is rightfully Hugh's. She knows she must tell the truth, but she needs to wait til the right time. Meanwhile, being around Hugh proves to be a distraction in itself. The more time they spend together, the more Daphne begins to fall for him. What will she do when Hugh learns her secret?
Minerva Spencer is an absolutely amazing author. Her OUTCASTS series gripped me with the first novel, DANGEROUS and still hasn't let me go. The second addition, BARBAROUS, is pure genius as well. I love her old-style book covers. The passionate embrace says it all, but the blurb also helps, LOL! Her larger than life alpha males and intelligent, witty heroines are just another wonderful surprise. And it sure as hell doesn't hurt that the characters are battle-scarred and so full of angst! BARBAROUS is a true gem as is Ms. Spencer's OUTCAST series!! They are must reads of 2018, to be sure.
Daphne feels guilty that her sons will inherit what is rightfully Hugh's. She knows she must tell the truth, but she needs to wait til the right time. Meanwhile, being around Hugh proves to be a distraction in itself. The more time they spend together, the more Daphne begins to fall for him. What will she do when Hugh learns her secret?
Minerva Spencer is an absolutely amazing author. Her OUTCASTS series gripped me with the first novel, DANGEROUS and still hasn't let me go. The second addition, BARBAROUS, is pure genius as well. I love her old-style book covers. The passionate embrace says it all, but the blurb also helps, LOL! Her larger than life alpha males and intelligent, witty heroines are just another wonderful surprise. And it sure as hell doesn't hurt that the characters are battle-scarred and so full of angst! BARBAROUS is a true gem as is Ms. Spencer's OUTCAST series!! They are must reads of 2018, to be sure.
September 6, 2018
This is one of the most well-written books I've read in quite some time and I loved the unique analogies I found in it. When you read as much as I do, it can sometimes get a bit repetitive, but this one was very original. The hero of this story is Hugh, a baron-turned-pirate who has returned from the dead, complete with a mysterious past and a determination to get to know our heroine more intimately. Daphne has quite a few secrets of her own and tries to do what she sees as the right thing by staying away from Hugh, who has quite a colorful history with women, and she refuses to be another conquest for him. Hugh turned out to be one of the sweetest, most sincere heroes I've read, and was actually very likable. There was also some plotting and intrigue going on here in addition to the romance and sexual tension that made the book un-put-down-able. Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for the ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for the ARC!
September 13, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Second in the Outcasts series, this one is just as good as the first and keeps you just as riveted to it’s pages.
Hugh - One eyes Standish &
Daphne his aunt by marriage, are both forces to be reckoned with , in their own way they are both passionate, protective and devoted . Both have had hard lives ,and are in need of a partner who understands and excepts them for themselves, without judgment.
This it a touching and emotional book in parts and in others action packed and has you on the edge of your seat .
It’s Wonderful and you can’t help but love the characters. Even some of the evil ones leave you with a slight pang of understanding and emotion at their past and what has brought them to be the people they are .
It’s Beautifully written and leaves you begging for more .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
Second in the Outcasts series, this one is just as good as the first and keeps you just as riveted to it’s pages.
Hugh - One eyes Standish &
Daphne his aunt by marriage, are both forces to be reckoned with , in their own way they are both passionate, protective and devoted . Both have had hard lives ,and are in need of a partner who understands and excepts them for themselves, without judgment.
This it a touching and emotional book in parts and in others action packed and has you on the edge of your seat .
It’s Wonderful and you can’t help but love the characters. Even some of the evil ones leave you with a slight pang of understanding and emotion at their past and what has brought them to be the people they are .
It’s Beautifully written and leaves you begging for more .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
August 25, 2018
Hugh tries to do the right thing, “Daphne, look at me, sweetheart.” She looked up at the warmth in his voice and the endearment. He smiled, and there was both amusement and pain in the expression. “I apologize for sending you away, but I’m afraid I can’t exercise any restraint if you remain within reach.” He gestured to the bedding that covered him, now tented around his hips." Hugh just wants to protect what's his, and the fact that he's a jealous man, “I lied when I said I would give you time to consider.” He spoke into the top of her head, his words rumbling like rolling boulders. “And I would thrash any man who so much as looked at you..." Hugh is just so unique with his compliments, “you made me come quicker than a boy with his first opera dancer.” I liked this book, I loved Hugh.
September 17, 2018
*3.5 stars*
I'm loving Minerva Spencer and her Outcasts series, but Barbarous was not quite as good as Dangerous for me.
Barbarous started off VERY strong, and I was sure I was going to love it. As the book went on, my enjoyment waned, but it still remained a very enjoyable book overall.
Barbarous had that piratey, interesting feel from the first in the series, and the unlikely hero/heroines (I LOVED that), but it suffered from some unexpected pacing issues. The middle and end dragged on and on, and I think Minerva Spencer has some work to do with her editing team in her future books.
I really enjoyed Hugh and the revenge subplot, and I liked his chemistry with Daphne. I am a total sucker for a scarred/injured MC, and I liked the fact that Hugh wasn't physically perfect. A huge (I mean super tall, but huge in every way as well) man is also never a bad thing.
I'm curious and excited to see where this series takes me, especially if the pacing issues that plague the middle parts of this author's stories are resolved. I know Minerva Spencer has winners up her sleeve.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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I'm loving Minerva Spencer and her Outcasts series, but Barbarous was not quite as good as Dangerous for me.
Barbarous started off VERY strong, and I was sure I was going to love it. As the book went on, my enjoyment waned, but it still remained a very enjoyable book overall.
Barbarous had that piratey, interesting feel from the first in the series, and the unlikely hero/heroines (I LOVED that), but it suffered from some unexpected pacing issues. The middle and end dragged on and on, and I think Minerva Spencer has some work to do with her editing team in her future books.
I really enjoyed Hugh and the revenge subplot, and I liked his chemistry with Daphne. I am a total sucker for a scarred/injured MC, and I liked the fact that Hugh wasn't physically perfect. A huge (I mean super tall, but huge in every way as well) man is also never a bad thing.
I'm curious and excited to see where this series takes me, especially if the pacing issues that plague the middle parts of this author's stories are resolved. I know Minerva Spencer has winners up her sleeve.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
October 6, 2018
The second book in Minerva Spencer's The Outcasts series is as fabulous as the first. We get to revisit one of the secondary characters of the first book and dig deeper into who he is and why. These books are not your typical historicals and anyone looking for light and fluffy should not venture here. These books have deep dark secrets, but the storytelling is fresh and the characters are intriguing and unique and such a refreshing change. I love how Spencer can weave these suspenseful and dangerous subplots right alongside the whimsical England scenery. This book is certainly a page turner and, at times, kept me on the edge of my seat. Give yourself time to read this because you won't want to put it down.
September 1, 2018
I’m really coming to adore Minerva Spencer. I love that the secrets aren’t really secrets but the suspense builds anyways. Hugh is quite formidable, yet kind, and Daphne is the perfect foil to him. I love how their story unfolds.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for the ARC!
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for the ARC!
October 3, 2018
Barbarous by Minerva Spencer has it all! This is a story that you stop EVERYTHING for (example: household chores and SLEEPING), just so you can read it! The storyline is big, and it is fun! At first I was a little skeptical because of the relationship between the hero and heroine but any skepticism I had was erased almost immediately. It was wonderfully done! The heroine has some spunk, I liked her! She was a strong character and the hero was to die for! There was some surprises and the story was not predictable in the least. There wasn’t anything I didn’t like about the story, it was fantastic and extremely well written! I loved it!!
June 17, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed Minvera Spencer’s début novel, Dangerous, and have been looking forward to its follow-up Barbarous, which features the dashing privateer Hugh Redvers, who played an important secondary role in the earlier novel. I was engaged by the author’s sophisticated, witty writing, and her ability to create rounded and engaging characters who acted and spoke like adults rather than brattish teenagers; her prose and dialogue were definitely above average, and in some cases, well above it, and I was keen to read more of her work.
This second book in her The Outcasts series is somewhat different in tone to the first, and feels more like a traditional historical romance than the first one. Hugh Redvers, Baron Ramsay and nephew of the Earl of Davenport, has been believed dead for almost twenty years, so his sudden reappearance at his (now deceased) uncle’s Sussex home comes as something of a shock to its mistress. Banished by the earl because of his disgraceful behaviour, twenty-year-old Hugh left England and was captured by Barbary corsairs off the Gibraltar coast. Sold to the Sultan of Oran, he endured years of suffering and violence before, years later, he engineered his escape and became One-Eyed Standish, captain of the Batavia’s Ghost, King’s Privateer and scourge of the high-seas. He’s finally returned to England in response to a summons from his oldest friend, who has received letters threatening the lives of the late earl’s widow Daphne and her twin sons, Lucien – the young earl - and Richard. Hugh arrives at an opportune time; Daphne has just bloodied the nose of her smarmy cousin Malcolm Hastings who is attempting to force her into marriage (and force himself on her). Seeing her dishevelled state, Hugh quickly draws the boys away and plays with them while she tidies herself and then resumes the picnic they’d originally intended to have. She’s cool, composed and doesn’t freak out, which I really liked about her.
After Daphne gets over the shock of Hugh’s return she realises she’s got bigger problems than the fact that she’s as hopelessly infatuated with him as she was when she was a ten-year-old girl mooning over her handsome neighbour. We learn early on that she was raped when she was just seventeen (by the aforementioned smarmy cousin), and that she was left pregnant as a result. The Earl of Davenport – her mother’s oldest friend – although some fifty years Daphne’s senior, came to her rescue, married her (although they never lived as man and wife) and acknowledged the boys as his when they were born. But now Hugh has returned, Daphne believes she has deprived him of what is rightfully his (the earldom), and feels dreadfully guilty about it. Her intense attraction to him only makes things worse; she longs to spend time with him and, being honest with herself, to experience passion and the pleasure she’s sure he is capable of giving her; but knows she has to make plans to leave Lessing Hall as soon as she’s confessed the truth, as Lucien will no longer have any claim to it.
I have to take a quick tangential detour here, because this plot point bugged the hell outta me.
I don’t claim to be an expert on the laws of inheritance in the 19th century, but my understanding is that at this period, a child born to parents who were married at the time of his or her birth was legitimate, regardless of whether the woman’s husband actually provided the sperm. This means that Lucien is – perfectly legally – the Earl of Davenport. Would it cause gossip and scandal if there were rumours about Lucien’s true parentage? Undoubtedly. But would it make any actual difference to who held the title? Unlikely.
The problem, then, is that this makes a large part of the plot redundant. Daphne spends over half the book genuinely intending to tell Hugh the truth and finding reasons to put it off – but other than the fact that she feels terribly guilty, her fessing up wouldn’t actually change anything.
Anyway.
Hugh is a terrific hero. He’s handsome, funny, sexy and larger-than-life (as well as larger than pretty much everyone else around him!), but he’s also kind, honourable and thoughtful, qualities which show in his every interaction with Daphne’s sons as well as those with Daphne herself, and I loved that he was so self-aware and prepared to let himself show his softer side when it came to Daphne and the boys. He’s coming up on forty, and is finding his swashbuckling life on the high seas has palled somewhat; having a girl in every port was great for many years, but now, he wants more than just a warm body, he wants a companion, a woman he can enjoy out of bed as well as in it. The attraction between him and Daphne sparks and crackles, and while the ‘inexperienced widow’ figure is perhaps a little cliché, the author develops their relationship very well. Daphne gives as good as she gets when it comes to their verbal sparring, and Hugh has a major weakness for women who appear immune to his charm; he’s used to women throwing themselves at him, so having Daphne view him as a mere inconvenience only adds fuel to the fire on his part.
While I liked both principals and found their romance well-done, I had a couple of other issues with the story as a whole which prevent me from giving it a higher grade. Firstly, there’s the blackmail/kidnap plotline towards the end, in which Daphne has a bit of a personality transplant and the villains are barely two-dimensional. And then there’s the way the author deals with Daphne’s assault and her memories of it. I don’t want to give too much away, but it struck me that Ms. Spencer wanted to have her cake and eat it; to provide a reason for Daphne to have to marry the earl and eventually lead to all that guilt at stealing Hugh’s birthright, but make it so that it wouldn’t affect her desire for Hugh or her ability to have sex with him, and I found it rather jarring.
Having said all this, I did enjoy Barbarous, although I wasn’t quite as pulled in to it as I was by Dangerous. I found myself wondering if this book had been written before Dangerous, as there’s a pivotal scene in which Mia appears which obviously takes place before the events of that book. I also felt Barbarous was a little less … polished is the only word I can come up with, not so much in terms of the writing and characterisation, but definitely in the case of the plot. I may well be completely off the mark – it’s just a hunch.
Even with my reservations, I’m going to give Barbarous a cautious recommendation, because the romance is well done and Hugh is a hero to die for. The plotline is definitely wobbly, but I know I’m extra-picky about accuracy and that there are many for whom something like that will not be an issue. The writing is a cut above average, the characters are engaging - and the scarcity of decent historical romances this year means that even a flawed one by a talented author is worth checking out.
[One last thing – Ms. Spencer does address the fact that a marriage between an aunt and nephew – even though Hugh and Daphne are not related by blood – was forbidden by church law, even though it wasn’t illegal under the laws of the land. ]
This second book in her The Outcasts series is somewhat different in tone to the first, and feels more like a traditional historical romance than the first one. Hugh Redvers, Baron Ramsay and nephew of the Earl of Davenport, has been believed dead for almost twenty years, so his sudden reappearance at his (now deceased) uncle’s Sussex home comes as something of a shock to its mistress. Banished by the earl because of his disgraceful behaviour, twenty-year-old Hugh left England and was captured by Barbary corsairs off the Gibraltar coast. Sold to the Sultan of Oran, he endured years of suffering and violence before, years later, he engineered his escape and became One-Eyed Standish, captain of the Batavia’s Ghost, King’s Privateer and scourge of the high-seas. He’s finally returned to England in response to a summons from his oldest friend, who has received letters threatening the lives of the late earl’s widow Daphne and her twin sons, Lucien – the young earl - and Richard. Hugh arrives at an opportune time; Daphne has just bloodied the nose of her smarmy cousin Malcolm Hastings who is attempting to force her into marriage (and force himself on her). Seeing her dishevelled state, Hugh quickly draws the boys away and plays with them while she tidies herself and then resumes the picnic they’d originally intended to have. She’s cool, composed and doesn’t freak out, which I really liked about her.
After Daphne gets over the shock of Hugh’s return she realises she’s got bigger problems than the fact that she’s as hopelessly infatuated with him as she was when she was a ten-year-old girl mooning over her handsome neighbour. We learn early on that she was raped when she was just seventeen (by the aforementioned smarmy cousin), and that she was left pregnant as a result. The Earl of Davenport – her mother’s oldest friend – although some fifty years Daphne’s senior, came to her rescue, married her (although they never lived as man and wife) and acknowledged the boys as his when they were born. But now Hugh has returned, Daphne believes she has deprived him of what is rightfully his (the earldom), and feels dreadfully guilty about it. Her intense attraction to him only makes things worse; she longs to spend time with him and, being honest with herself, to experience passion and the pleasure she’s sure he is capable of giving her; but knows she has to make plans to leave Lessing Hall as soon as she’s confessed the truth, as Lucien will no longer have any claim to it.
I have to take a quick tangential detour here, because this plot point bugged the hell outta me.
I don’t claim to be an expert on the laws of inheritance in the 19th century, but my understanding is that at this period, a child born to parents who were married at the time of his or her birth was legitimate, regardless of whether the woman’s husband actually provided the sperm. This means that Lucien is – perfectly legally – the Earl of Davenport. Would it cause gossip and scandal if there were rumours about Lucien’s true parentage? Undoubtedly. But would it make any actual difference to who held the title? Unlikely.
The problem, then, is that this makes a large part of the plot redundant. Daphne spends over half the book genuinely intending to tell Hugh the truth and finding reasons to put it off – but other than the fact that she feels terribly guilty, her fessing up wouldn’t actually change anything.
Anyway.
Hugh is a terrific hero. He’s handsome, funny, sexy and larger-than-life (as well as larger than pretty much everyone else around him!), but he’s also kind, honourable and thoughtful, qualities which show in his every interaction with Daphne’s sons as well as those with Daphne herself, and I loved that he was so self-aware and prepared to let himself show his softer side when it came to Daphne and the boys. He’s coming up on forty, and is finding his swashbuckling life on the high seas has palled somewhat; having a girl in every port was great for many years, but now, he wants more than just a warm body, he wants a companion, a woman he can enjoy out of bed as well as in it. The attraction between him and Daphne sparks and crackles, and while the ‘inexperienced widow’ figure is perhaps a little cliché, the author develops their relationship very well. Daphne gives as good as she gets when it comes to their verbal sparring, and Hugh has a major weakness for women who appear immune to his charm; he’s used to women throwing themselves at him, so having Daphne view him as a mere inconvenience only adds fuel to the fire on his part.
While I liked both principals and found their romance well-done, I had a couple of other issues with the story as a whole which prevent me from giving it a higher grade. Firstly, there’s the blackmail/kidnap plotline towards the end, in which Daphne has a bit of a personality transplant and the villains are barely two-dimensional. And then there’s the way the author deals with Daphne’s assault and her memories of it. I don’t want to give too much away, but it struck me that Ms. Spencer wanted to have her cake and eat it; to provide a reason for Daphne to have to marry the earl and eventually lead to all that guilt at stealing Hugh’s birthright, but make it so that it wouldn’t affect her desire for Hugh or her ability to have sex with him, and I found it rather jarring.
Having said all this, I did enjoy Barbarous, although I wasn’t quite as pulled in to it as I was by Dangerous. I found myself wondering if this book had been written before Dangerous, as there’s a pivotal scene in which Mia appears which obviously takes place before the events of that book. I also felt Barbarous was a little less … polished is the only word I can come up with, not so much in terms of the writing and characterisation, but definitely in the case of the plot. I may well be completely off the mark – it’s just a hunch.
Even with my reservations, I’m going to give Barbarous a cautious recommendation, because the romance is well done and Hugh is a hero to die for. The plotline is definitely wobbly, but I know I’m extra-picky about accuracy and that there are many for whom something like that will not be an issue. The writing is a cut above average, the characters are engaging - and the scarcity of decent historical romances this year means that even a flawed one by a talented author is worth checking out.
[One last thing – Ms. Spencer does address the fact that a marriage between an aunt and nephew – even though Hugh and Daphne are not related by blood – was forbidden by church law, even though it wasn’t illegal under the laws of the land. ]
October 1, 2018
Privateer, Hugh Redvers has been summoned back to England by his old friend, Will Standish, because threatening notes have been arriving at the home of his uncle’s widow, Daphne and her sons. Hugh was the earl’s heir until the old earl married young Daphne and now her son is due to inherit. Hugh’s enemies are also posing a threat, but Daphne has secrets and enemies and Hugh is trying to unravel who is the enemy and how he can protect Daphne. At the same time Hugh may have to deal with other threats.
This is a terrific series and this book is as fun to read as the first in the series, Dangerous. This is the story of the pirate(privateer), Hugh Redvers, who sent his ship to save Mia from the Harem. (book#1) but that is just an aside. This is a standalone book with just cameos from the first book. That said the hero of the next book is introduced in this book. You can start with this one and then read Mia and Adam’s story in Dangerous since they run concurrently.
I am excited to tell you about this action packed book, with some surprises and lots of sensual moments. Hugh is a pirate to swoon over and we want Daphne to tame him. There are heart pounding moments that kept me turning pages long into the wee hours of the morning. Another delicious novel from Minerva Spencer in the “Outcasts” series.
I received this book free for review from the publisher.
more reviews on my blog: http://ladeetdareads.wordpress.com
This is a terrific series and this book is as fun to read as the first in the series, Dangerous. This is the story of the pirate(privateer), Hugh Redvers, who sent his ship to save Mia from the Harem. (book#1) but that is just an aside. This is a standalone book with just cameos from the first book. That said the hero of the next book is introduced in this book. You can start with this one and then read Mia and Adam’s story in Dangerous since they run concurrently.
I am excited to tell you about this action packed book, with some surprises and lots of sensual moments. Hugh is a pirate to swoon over and we want Daphne to tame him. There are heart pounding moments that kept me turning pages long into the wee hours of the morning. Another delicious novel from Minerva Spencer in the “Outcasts” series.
I received this book free for review from the publisher.
more reviews on my blog: http://ladeetdareads.wordpress.com
October 19, 2018
Barbarous is book two in The Outcasts series by Minerva Spencer. I hardly know how to review this absolutely breathtaking story. I was spellbound almost from the beginning. Spencer weaves the tale of Hugh Redvers, the Baron Ramsay also known as One-eyed Standish from the first book in the series “Dangerous”. Several of the characters from the first book appear in this one. Although it can be read as a stand alone, it is much richer if one reads the series in order.
What happens when a man long thought dead is suddenly resurrected? “This man was tall - remarkably so - golden, and devastatingly attractive. Not even almost two decades, brutal scarring, and the black patch over his eye could obscure the truth. He was, without doubt, Hugh Redvers, her dead husband’s true heir: a man everyone had believed dead for almost twenty years.”
There are a number of triggers in this book, and by that I mean issues that some may struggle through. Rape and slavery are themes that run throughout. Both are seen as the evil that they are and are not glorified in anyway. There are several intimate sex scenes. If they bother the reader, then just read the dialogue.
I hated coming to the end of this story and am looking forward to the third book in the series “Scandalous”.
What happens when a man long thought dead is suddenly resurrected? “This man was tall - remarkably so - golden, and devastatingly attractive. Not even almost two decades, brutal scarring, and the black patch over his eye could obscure the truth. He was, without doubt, Hugh Redvers, her dead husband’s true heir: a man everyone had believed dead for almost twenty years.”
There are a number of triggers in this book, and by that I mean issues that some may struggle through. Rape and slavery are themes that run throughout. Both are seen as the evil that they are and are not glorified in anyway. There are several intimate sex scenes. If they bother the reader, then just read the dialogue.
I hated coming to the end of this story and am looking forward to the third book in the series “Scandalous”.
June 17, 2018
If you read the previous book, Dangerous, then you already have met Hugh and Daphne - the story begins a short time before that book and runs concurrently.
Daphne Redvers, Lady Davenport is fending off an attack by her vile cousin Sir Malcolm when her late husband's nephew, Hugh Redvers, Baron Ramsey returns from the dead. The man from whom she has stolen everything from.
Hugh has returned to England (and from the dead) for one reason, to protect Daphne and her sons. He was sent away by his uncle almost 20 years ago and when he was captured by corsairs and enslaved, he let everyone believe he had died. The stablemaster and Hugh's childhood friend Will is the only one who knew the truth - he contacted Hugh because he has been receiving anonymous letters saying Daphne and her boys are in danger. Hugh is surprised by his immediate attraction to Daphne, but tries to fight it - there can be nothing between them, not only because she is technically his aunt and forbidden by ecclesiastical law but because he has no plans on staying in England - he will leave once the threat to her is taken care of and continue on his quest for vengeance against the man that betrayed him - Emile Calitain. Calitain was a slave with Hugh and turned on him, costing Hugh his eye, freedom and the lives of his friends. Hugh escaped and became the privateer "One Eyed Standish", and for the last 15 years he has been roaming the seas in search of Calitain.
Daphne is being blackmailed by Sir Malcolm, her marriage to Hugh's uncle Thomas was in name only - she was raped by her cousin at 17 and Thomas married her to protect her. Sir Malcolm threatens to expose the truth of the boys birth if she doesn't marry him. But now that Hugh is back, she knows that she must tell him the truth - her sons Lucien and Richard are not Thomas', so Hugh is really the new Earl of Davenport - she is sure he will think that she duped his uncle and wishes she had proof that he was aware that the boys were not his. For this reason, she holds off telling him. She needs to make plans for herself and the twins before she confesses.
They grow closer after an attempt on Hugh's life and she is on the verge of telling him the truth when an unexpected visitor arrives and Daphne catches Hugh with the woman in his arms. Unable to tell her the truth about Mia, he leaves her a vague note and takes Mia to London. Daphne believes the worst about Hugh and Mia, which motivates her to step up her plans to move to Yorkshire. She takes the boys and goes to London. They are reunited with Hugh and she gets the proof she needs to confess to Hugh. When Hugh saves her from an attack by Malcolm, she knows she has run out of time and confesses. Hugh assures her that he doesn't want the earldom and that Thomas' considered the boys his and Hugh will never challenge Lucien's right to the title. He is in love with Daphne and asks her to marry him. She agrees and it seems like a HEA is within sight. But ghosts from both their pasts will return and threaten their newfound happiness.
I loved this story, it has a bit of everything, mystery, action, pirates, secrets, steamy love scenes, likable characters, betrayal, blackmail, laugh out loud moments, really nasty and demented villains and finally a very hard earned HEA. My only complaint would be that while this story seems to run concurrently with Mia's story, major scenes involving Hugh from her story are not in this story, which I found a little odd - but not enough to diminish my enjoyment. This is the second book in the Outcast series and while there is a connection to the first book, this title can easily be read as a standalone. I would happily recommend this book and am eagerly awaiting the next book!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
Daphne Redvers, Lady Davenport is fending off an attack by her vile cousin Sir Malcolm when her late husband's nephew, Hugh Redvers, Baron Ramsey returns from the dead. The man from whom she has stolen everything from.
Hugh has returned to England (and from the dead) for one reason, to protect Daphne and her sons. He was sent away by his uncle almost 20 years ago and when he was captured by corsairs and enslaved, he let everyone believe he had died. The stablemaster and Hugh's childhood friend Will is the only one who knew the truth - he contacted Hugh because he has been receiving anonymous letters saying Daphne and her boys are in danger. Hugh is surprised by his immediate attraction to Daphne, but tries to fight it - there can be nothing between them, not only because she is technically his aunt and forbidden by ecclesiastical law but because he has no plans on staying in England - he will leave once the threat to her is taken care of and continue on his quest for vengeance against the man that betrayed him - Emile Calitain. Calitain was a slave with Hugh and turned on him, costing Hugh his eye, freedom and the lives of his friends. Hugh escaped and became the privateer "One Eyed Standish", and for the last 15 years he has been roaming the seas in search of Calitain.
Daphne is being blackmailed by Sir Malcolm, her marriage to Hugh's uncle Thomas was in name only - she was raped by her cousin at 17 and Thomas married her to protect her. Sir Malcolm threatens to expose the truth of the boys birth if she doesn't marry him. But now that Hugh is back, she knows that she must tell him the truth - her sons Lucien and Richard are not Thomas', so Hugh is really the new Earl of Davenport - she is sure he will think that she duped his uncle and wishes she had proof that he was aware that the boys were not his. For this reason, she holds off telling him. She needs to make plans for herself and the twins before she confesses.
They grow closer after an attempt on Hugh's life and she is on the verge of telling him the truth when an unexpected visitor arrives and Daphne catches Hugh with the woman in his arms. Unable to tell her the truth about Mia, he leaves her a vague note and takes Mia to London. Daphne believes the worst about Hugh and Mia, which motivates her to step up her plans to move to Yorkshire. She takes the boys and goes to London. They are reunited with Hugh and she gets the proof she needs to confess to Hugh. When Hugh saves her from an attack by Malcolm, she knows she has run out of time and confesses. Hugh assures her that he doesn't want the earldom and that Thomas' considered the boys his and Hugh will never challenge Lucien's right to the title. He is in love with Daphne and asks her to marry him. She agrees and it seems like a HEA is within sight. But ghosts from both their pasts will return and threaten their newfound happiness.
I loved this story, it has a bit of everything, mystery, action, pirates, secrets, steamy love scenes, likable characters, betrayal, blackmail, laugh out loud moments, really nasty and demented villains and finally a very hard earned HEA. My only complaint would be that while this story seems to run concurrently with Mia's story, major scenes involving Hugh from her story are not in this story, which I found a little odd - but not enough to diminish my enjoyment. This is the second book in the Outcast series and while there is a connection to the first book, this title can easily be read as a standalone. I would happily recommend this book and am eagerly awaiting the next book!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
October 15, 2018
Lady Daphne is a widow with two young sons, and a very big secret. Lord Hugh is the nephew of her deceased husband, who has just made his triumphant return to England after years of working for the king as his privateer. He has garnered the nickname and reputation of the One eyed Standish, a fearsome pirate who has never lost a fight, and takes what he wants when he desires it. Hugh has a little secret of his own, he came back to England only to protect his uncle’s widow, but he didn’t know she’d be so young, or so lovely.
The two become involved in a plot filled with intrigue, blackmail, and danger all the while their heated attraction to each other threatens to burst into flame.
It’s a terrific story from start to finish, and one that’s difficult to put down. It has a cast of characters that are colorful and complex, and I am definitely looking forward to the next in this series of books. I highly recommend it.
The two become involved in a plot filled with intrigue, blackmail, and danger all the while their heated attraction to each other threatens to burst into flame.
It’s a terrific story from start to finish, and one that’s difficult to put down. It has a cast of characters that are colorful and complex, and I am definitely looking forward to the next in this series of books. I highly recommend it.
September 24, 2018
The first book in this series was great but this book, wow! I loved it. Hugh is a guy who can make you laugh, cry, or shrink in fear. Daphne is a survivor and I admired her for that reason. Get these two together and sparks are flying all over the place. That was a whirlwind ride from sketchy cousins, to pirates, to slavers, to love. It reminds me a lot of old school books but updated and refreshing and “I can’t put it down”. Amazing!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
October 6, 2024
Read: 10/1/24
I really enjoyed this story! It wasn't as good as the 1st book, but it was still entertaining. Hugh makes a fantastic rogue! He has charm and charmism that you can't help but love him. Daphne was more reserved and prim. The woman has been through a lot, so I get it. With the MC having such opposite personalities, I don't know if they would make it in the long run (IRL anyway).
The secondary characters were great! I loved Daphne's twin sons. They provided for some hilarious moments in the book.
All in all, this was a well written story with intriguing characters. I highly recommend it after you read Dangerous first😉
I really enjoyed this story! It wasn't as good as the 1st book, but it was still entertaining. Hugh makes a fantastic rogue! He has charm and charmism that you can't help but love him. Daphne was more reserved and prim. The woman has been through a lot, so I get it. With the MC having such opposite personalities, I don't know if they would make it in the long run (IRL anyway).
The secondary characters were great! I loved Daphne's twin sons. They provided for some hilarious moments in the book.
All in all, this was a well written story with intriguing characters. I highly recommend it after you read Dangerous first😉
September 6, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) I enjoyed this book and was happy to have a read a historical fiction book. Daphne has a secret to keep from Hugh, and it is a secret to protect her and her twins. Hugh is back from the dead, or that is what the ton and his family thought, he hasn't been in England for 20 years. He was sent to return home to protect Daphne who is being threatened by some letters that she knows nothing about, only Hugh is the one to get the shock of his life when he meets Daphne or sees, he remembers her as nothing more than a little girl who was his neighbor but now she is a gorgeous woman who was married to his uncle who was about 6 decades older than her and he is instantly attracted but knows that he should not engage in it since it would be scandalous and he has no intention of staying in England. Daphne is also attracted to him and trying to fight it, she has stolen from him and does not know how to tell him the truth. We have lies, betrayals and eventually love. I am looking forward to next book, I didn't know that this one was the second book however I was not lost, but I want to know what happens with Mia, and also what happens with Martin.. Til next one..
January 31, 2024
This series is really fun. I’ve discovered I enjoy exotic, piratical adventure romance quite a lot. I would love to read book 3 but it’s not included in my Audible plus membership. Boo.
October 11, 2018
This is the first book that I've read by Minerva Spencer and I loved it. I plan on reading "Dangerous" (The Outcasts #1) next. I had no problem reading the book out of sequence. Hugh Redvers with his pirate's eye patch has returned from the dead. He is a riveting hero with an indomitable spirit. Daphne is an appropriate counterpart for Hugh. They have a shared history of violence in their past. I highly recommend "Barbarous." I read an ARC of this story via NetGalley and chose to leave a review.
October 1, 2018
Hugh Redvers, Baron Ramsey has been thought dead for almost two decades. Only a very few knew that he was still alive. He arrives at his late uncle's estate in time to see the aftermath of a struggle between Lady Daphne, his widowed aunt and Sir Malcolm., her cousin. There's a problem between Malcolm and Daphne, but she does not disclose what it is at this time. Lucien and Richard, Daphne's young sons take to their Cousin Hugh, especially after they find out that he's a Privateer for the King, ridding the seas of slavers traders. He has a most interesting past that I found as fascinating as Daphne and the boys did. He also, has secrets and a score to settle before he can be at peace. This is the story of a young woman who is left with her two sons after her much older husband dies. She has secrets and threats from the past that she finds hard to share. Hugh comes in with his dare devil ways and strange entourage and upsets the household in a good way. Hugh is a perfectly, imperfect hero. I loved him. There's so much more to this story. I really loved the storyline and all the details. It is a plot within a plot. The author has taken her time with this book, researching many details that bring the story to life. It's one adventure after another and very well written. I read it all in one sitting because I needed to know what happened next. I give it a 5++. I received this book from Net Galley and Kensington Books for a honest review and no compensation otherwise. The opinions are my own.
October 12, 2018
This story was great right from the beginning! Hugh is a wondrous hero, a man who has suffered so much. Daphne is a strong woman whose life took a painful turn years ago. Luckily, she found joy in raising her children. These two collide in subplots that has slavers and pirates! Quick paced action snd love!
September 28, 2018
I will start by saying this book has really really good reviews on Goodreads. And I didn’t dislike it, but the sheer number of five star ratings has me wondering if I read the same book as everyone else.
I was excited about picking this up, despite the title which reminded me of a 1980’s bodice ripper. After all, the hero was scarred, with a delicious piratical eyepatch. I love a scarred hero. But Hugh wasn’t what I expected. This man was enslaved, tortured, and disfigured, but there was virtually no angst to be found.
As the story begins, Daphne is fighting off the lecherous advances of the man who raped her years ago. Her elderly husband is dead and there is no one to protect her now that Malcolm is after her fortune. And if she isn’t willing to cooperate, he’ll tell the world he’s the father of her children. It’s just as she fights back that her late husband’s nephew shows up. Everyone thought Hugh was dead, and he’s only returned due to a threat on Daphne’s life.
Hugh and Daphne are immediately attracted to each other. However, he considers her off-limits because he thinks she slept with his very old uncle. (She didn’t.) And she thinks he’s off limits because her son has the title that’s rightfully Hugh’s. They flirt a little. Hugh gets sick. They flirt a bit more and then they’re in love.
Here are my complaints. I didn’t really feel the love happening. The sexual attraction, sure, but love? Not so much. As I mentioned, there is a wealth of missed opportunity to explore what happened to Hugh. There’s a revenge plot involving the guy who sold him out, but I wanted some teeth gnashing over Hugh’s appearance. Some self-worth issues about what happened to him during slavery. I got nothing. I thought Malcolm was way too one-note as a villain and Calitain wasn’t explored nearly enough. And the answers over who wrote the letters and who cut the girth on the saddle… both, weak.
As for Daphne, she’s fine, I guess. She spends a lot of time telling herself she is going to come clean to Hugh, but never quite gets around to it. And when the reveal does happen, it’s quite underwhelming. Actually, I think that underwhelming kind of fits my feelings about the book in general. It wasn’t bad, but for sure, it did not live up to my expectations.
For what it’s worth, this is book two in the Outcasts series, and I understand the events happen simultaneously with book one, but this holds up just fine as a standalone. Maybe it would be a bigger hit for you.
Rating: C
*ARC provided by publisher
I was excited about picking this up, despite the title which reminded me of a 1980’s bodice ripper. After all, the hero was scarred, with a delicious piratical eyepatch. I love a scarred hero. But Hugh wasn’t what I expected. This man was enslaved, tortured, and disfigured, but there was virtually no angst to be found.
As the story begins, Daphne is fighting off the lecherous advances of the man who raped her years ago. Her elderly husband is dead and there is no one to protect her now that Malcolm is after her fortune. And if she isn’t willing to cooperate, he’ll tell the world he’s the father of her children. It’s just as she fights back that her late husband’s nephew shows up. Everyone thought Hugh was dead, and he’s only returned due to a threat on Daphne’s life.
Hugh and Daphne are immediately attracted to each other. However, he considers her off-limits because he thinks she slept with his very old uncle. (She didn’t.) And she thinks he’s off limits because her son has the title that’s rightfully Hugh’s. They flirt a little. Hugh gets sick. They flirt a bit more and then they’re in love.
Here are my complaints. I didn’t really feel the love happening. The sexual attraction, sure, but love? Not so much. As I mentioned, there is a wealth of missed opportunity to explore what happened to Hugh. There’s a revenge plot involving the guy who sold him out, but I wanted some teeth gnashing over Hugh’s appearance. Some self-worth issues about what happened to him during slavery. I got nothing. I thought Malcolm was way too one-note as a villain and Calitain wasn’t explored nearly enough. And the answers over who wrote the letters and who cut the girth on the saddle… both, weak.
As for Daphne, she’s fine, I guess. She spends a lot of time telling herself she is going to come clean to Hugh, but never quite gets around to it. And when the reveal does happen, it’s quite underwhelming. Actually, I think that underwhelming kind of fits my feelings about the book in general. It wasn’t bad, but for sure, it did not live up to my expectations.
For what it’s worth, this is book two in the Outcasts series, and I understand the events happen simultaneously with book one, but this holds up just fine as a standalone. Maybe it would be a bigger hit for you.
Rating: C
*ARC provided by publisher
September 28, 2018
Rescued from a marriage-less pregnancy by an aging Earl's marriage offer, Daphne is widowed young and raising her twin boys when Hugh Redvers, rightful heir to the Earl, returns from the dead. Daphne must tell Hugh the truth about the paternity of her children, but fears he will suspect she purposefully deceived the Earl. Hugh returned from the dead and came back to his homeland only to aid the Earl's widow, whom his childhood friend (the one person who knew he was alive and how to contact him) fears is in danger. Daphne and Hugh are determined to maintain their uncomfortable, aunt/nephew relationship, despite their growing captivation with each other. Can they wade through their own mucky familial relationship and appalling experiences to find joy and truth with each other?
August 31, 2018
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you! All opinions are my own :)
My first book by Minerva Spencer and I loved it. Daphne Davenport has had a terrible past and I felt so sorry for her . But then Hugh Redvers (long lost, believed dead and part of her late husband's family) returns and I cheered for those two right from the start. Hugh isn't just sinfully handsome and somewhat of an outlaw - he's pretty much a pirate. I can't help, I love pirates - so of course I had a fantastic reading time with this one.
My first book by Minerva Spencer and I loved it. Daphne Davenport has had a terrible past and I felt so sorry for her . But then Hugh Redvers (long lost, believed dead and part of her late husband's family) returns and I cheered for those two right from the start. Hugh isn't just sinfully handsome and somewhat of an outlaw - he's pretty much a pirate. I can't help, I love pirates - so of course I had a fantastic reading time with this one.
January 11, 2019
2.5/5. This took me a painfully long time to finish. I found it worked better than Stilnox for me.
Heroine was boring. Hero was strangely also quite bland for a notorious privateer. The writing was not bad, but the story and the characters just didn't move me at all. I do like the twin boys. They're quite lively and cute. Reminds me of my own rambunctious and inquisitive 10 year old little guy.
Heroine was boring. Hero was strangely also quite bland for a notorious privateer. The writing was not bad, but the story and the characters just didn't move me at all. I do like the twin boys. They're quite lively and cute. Reminds me of my own rambunctious and inquisitive 10 year old little guy.
May 20, 2023
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Introduction
Barbarous is the second book in the "Outcasts" series but honestly you could read this one first if you wanted to as both this one and the first book have similar storylines and technically, in a chronological sense, this book takes place first. I really adored this one though, more than even the first book and I didn't expect that to happen, but for some reason this one just clicked so much more for me!! It just had more charm to the story and this author is really making me fall in love with her and so quickly for sure. I did a combo read of this one in both ebook and audiobook and both formats were so fun to read.
My Outlook
This story is a story that does have a sense of forbidden though as there is a slight family connection but no blood relationship happening. So despite that, it might bother some readers. I had no issues with it though, it worked just right for me. You could tell how careful the author was in the connection between them. From the very beginning you will be caught up so easily within this story and the charm that is so heavily present. I loved the way that the children were present and focused on in the story, not neglected but also not interrupting the actual romance.
I love the sense of "adventure" that this author seems to pen so flawlessly in her regency books. Its an aspect to recently written historical's that have seem to be lost and I love that Minerva Spencer really implements it so well. The romance was so well done. I loved their connection to each other, their chemistry is off the charts and the way in which the husband had wanted them to be together if he died, was so endearing. I really enjoyed the quiet intimate moments between these two. And the author really captialized on the character growth of the hero and loved seeing his story from seeing him in book one.
Overall View
I found Barbarous to be a true delight that curled my toes in its intimacy and charmed this reader with the sense of adventure, the unique cast of characters and delivering on the witty banter.
Rating Evaluation:
Plot: 4.5
World Building: 4
Cover: 5
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4.5
Steam: 4
Heart & Feels: 4
Ending:4.5
Overall View: 4.5
October 8, 2018
#BARBAROUS #NETGALLEY
#privateers #a lady’s moral dilemma #heated passion
Hugh Redvers returns to England because he hears that his deceased uncle’s wife, Lady Daphne, is in danger. When he first meets his aunt by marriage, he’s shocked to discover that she is a young beautiful woman with twin sons. He’s disturbed to find that he is very attracted to his “aunt.” Lady Daphne is also shocked upon meeting Hugh, a handsome, muscular privateer with a black eye patch, because he is supposed to be dead. She,too,is disturbed because she now realizes that she has cheated him out of his rightful inheritance...his title,his land,his money. But to confess this to Hugh would be denying her oldest son his inheritance. They would have to leave the estate and become just regular people while she struggles to support her family.
BARBAROUS is an exciting story from beginning to end. It’s a heatedly passionate love story with dilemmas galore. Hugh must discover who’s trying to hurt Daphne before he can return to sea. He also realizes he must protect her from the dastardly Malcolm, a nobleman who has a history with her. Daphne struggles with the fact that she must tell Hugh the truth about her children and his rightful inheritance. And there are plenty of swashbuckling characters that tag along with Hugh, the King’s Privateer. I highly recommend this book. Along with all of the adventures, there is a satisfying HEA.
#privateers #a lady’s moral dilemma #heated passion
Hugh Redvers returns to England because he hears that his deceased uncle’s wife, Lady Daphne, is in danger. When he first meets his aunt by marriage, he’s shocked to discover that she is a young beautiful woman with twin sons. He’s disturbed to find that he is very attracted to his “aunt.” Lady Daphne is also shocked upon meeting Hugh, a handsome, muscular privateer with a black eye patch, because he is supposed to be dead. She,too,is disturbed because she now realizes that she has cheated him out of his rightful inheritance...his title,his land,his money. But to confess this to Hugh would be denying her oldest son his inheritance. They would have to leave the estate and become just regular people while she struggles to support her family.
BARBAROUS is an exciting story from beginning to end. It’s a heatedly passionate love story with dilemmas galore. Hugh must discover who’s trying to hurt Daphne before he can return to sea. He also realizes he must protect her from the dastardly Malcolm, a nobleman who has a history with her. Daphne struggles with the fact that she must tell Hugh the truth about her children and his rightful inheritance. And there are plenty of swashbuckling characters that tag along with Hugh, the King’s Privateer. I highly recommend this book. Along with all of the adventures, there is a satisfying HEA.
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