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Wanton in Wessex #2
A Potion for Passion
When Miss Flora Hartington bumps into a handsome traveling apothecary, she sees her chance at adventure, a brief escape from the shackles of propriety, and she jumps at the opportunity. It doesn’t hurt that he’s incredibly attractive, and kind in his own way. But it’s a temporary solution to her very big problem––namely her family trying to control her entire future.
Kidnapped by traveling folk as a child, Lawrence Campion yearns to be a real doctor, which means earning passage to America. The last thing he needs is to be saddled with the beautiful and feisty Flora. However, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her, and then be off to fulfill his dreams. But Lawrence has a past that is quickly catching up with him. And he carries a secret that could destroy both their plans.
Each book in the Wanton in Wessex series is
* A Perilous Passion
* A Potion for Passion
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2018
9 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Keysian
34 books306 followersElizabeth Keysian is a multi-award winning, USA Today bestselling author of heart-pounding Regency romances, set mostly in the West of England. She has completed a unique series for Dragonblade Publishing called Trysts and Treachery, which is set in the Tudor era. Though primarily a writer of romance, she loves to put a bit of mystery, adventure, and suspense into her stories, and refuses to let her characters take themselves too seriously.
Elizabeth likes to write from experience, not easy when her works range from the medieval to the Victorian eras. However, her passion for re-enactment has helped, as have the many years she spent working in museums and British archaeology. If you find some detail in her work you’ve never come across before, you can bet she either dug it up, quite literally, or found it on a museum shelf.
Social media/web links
Newsletter http://eepurl.com/cxe369
Amazon page https://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Keys...
Twitter https://twitter.com/EKeysian
Facebook https://m.facebook.com/LizKeysian
BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/eliza...
Elizabeth likes to write from experience, not easy when her works range from the medieval to the Victorian eras. However, her passion for re-enactment has helped, as have the many years she spent working in museums and British archaeology. If you find some detail in her work you’ve never come across before, you can bet she either dug it up, quite literally, or found it on a museum shelf.
Social media/web links
Newsletter http://eepurl.com/cxe369
Amazon page https://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Keys...
Twitter https://twitter.com/EKeysian
Facebook https://m.facebook.com/LizKeysian
BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/eliza...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 24, 2018
I love to be surprised and this adventure took me on a new journey I did not expect. A medicine man who pulls his wagon from place to place hawking his elixirs and a spinster who is trying so hard to be independent if the town and her sister will just let her. A unique circumstance you say? Well it was and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Ephraim, no Campion, no really Lawrence has a travelling apothecary that has come to Flora's town numerous times. Flora has just gotten out underneath her sisters thumb when her sister moved out. But oh no, half the town watches her and reports back anything they see! She just wants an adventure and to go out on her own and start a hat business. Having been a patron of Lawrence's and bought many of his concoctions that actually worked, she is given one that has a disastrous outcome. So they have more contact and that is when it starts!
She ends up traveling with Lawrence but there are so many unanswered questions as to what is Lawrence's real background? What is he involved in besides his apothecary trade?
As these two are together there is no telling what will happen.
Prepare to be enchanted at Lawrence and Flora in this well written and story that will grab you from the start!!!
Ephraim, no Campion, no really Lawrence has a travelling apothecary that has come to Flora's town numerous times. Flora has just gotten out underneath her sisters thumb when her sister moved out. But oh no, half the town watches her and reports back anything they see! She just wants an adventure and to go out on her own and start a hat business. Having been a patron of Lawrence's and bought many of his concoctions that actually worked, she is given one that has a disastrous outcome. So they have more contact and that is when it starts!
She ends up traveling with Lawrence but there are so many unanswered questions as to what is Lawrence's real background? What is he involved in besides his apothecary trade?
As these two are together there is no telling what will happen.
Prepare to be enchanted at Lawrence and Flora in this well written and story that will grab you from the start!!!
October 2, 2018
a potion for passion finds miss flora hartington indulging in her fascination with itinerant medicine man, lawrence campion. posing as dr. l.e. champaign he has a whole host of tisanes and medicinal tonics that he sells at fairs and markets in small town england. part criminal, part quack, part healer, lawrence is many things, and flora doesn't always see them.
she tends to see the best of him. he's been her hero for so long, that even when he behaves shadily she finds excuses for him. but she's sheltered and he's been her hero for so long. when he accidentally gives her a bottle of hair dye instead of hair tonic and her hair turns red, she's furious and sets out to find him to ensure that he can help her change it back. somehow he convinces her to join in his show.
and soon she is his partner in all things, madame julietta. being julietta gives flora a taste of freedom and of independence she never truly enjoyed before. and the halfway in love turns into all the way in love. and lawrence, who has seduced and charmed his way through life, he finds himself too caught up with flora to think about anyone else. he's always believed a wife would be a poor choice for him, but perhaps his found the only woman to be his perfect choice.
things come to a head in a kind of madcap fashion, but somehow flora and lawrence find each other and don't end up in jail or totally ruined. it's almost a miracle, and the ending proves to be quite happy. and this regency romance was most enjoyable.
**a potion for passion will publish on september 24, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (amara) in exchange for my honest review.
she tends to see the best of him. he's been her hero for so long, that even when he behaves shadily she finds excuses for him. but she's sheltered and he's been her hero for so long. when he accidentally gives her a bottle of hair dye instead of hair tonic and her hair turns red, she's furious and sets out to find him to ensure that he can help her change it back. somehow he convinces her to join in his show.
and soon she is his partner in all things, madame julietta. being julietta gives flora a taste of freedom and of independence she never truly enjoyed before. and the halfway in love turns into all the way in love. and lawrence, who has seduced and charmed his way through life, he finds himself too caught up with flora to think about anyone else. he's always believed a wife would be a poor choice for him, but perhaps his found the only woman to be his perfect choice.
things come to a head in a kind of madcap fashion, but somehow flora and lawrence find each other and don't end up in jail or totally ruined. it's almost a miracle, and the ending proves to be quite happy. and this regency romance was most enjoyable.
**a potion for passion will publish on september 24, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (amara) in exchange for my honest review.
September 24, 2018
I liked the two main characters, Flora and Lawrence. Flora’s personality was suppressed by her elder sister and her informants. Lawrence was a charming, handsome, travelling salesman who dabbled in contraband goods. I loved that Flora was able to be free of her usual restraints when she was with Lawrence and to embrace her true nature. They were very attracted to each other but couldn’t see a future, given their differences. This was a very engaging story with some dangerous moments and surprises. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 4.5 stars
September 24, 2018
A Potion For Passion by Elizabeth Keysian is historical romance with a dash of suspense. Ms. Keysian has provided readers with a book that is not only well-written but also has a stellar cast of characters. Flora is finally rid of her sister and is living on her own. Lawrence is a traveling doctor, selling his tonics and journaling his potions. He also sells secret items. Lawrence and Flora's tale is full of drama, humor, action, suspense and spice. I enjoyed reading A Potion For Passion and look forward to my next book by Elizabeth Keysian. A Potion For Passion is part of the Wanton In Wessex Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 11, 2018
A Potion for Passion is nothing short of amazing. Elizabeth Keysian has been a favourite of mine for a while now. She is a wonderful author with a marvellous knack for weaving captivating stories. This story had me from the very beginning. It is beautifully written, full of emotion and I love the story line! It is also fun and easy to follow! The characters are witty and stand out, extremely likeable and are not easily forgotten. Flora and Lawrence have amazing chemistry and their characters felt so real. A fantastic read through and through.
I highly recommend this book to any romance reader/ historical romance lover. This is a must read! Thank you Elizabeth for writing another truly amazing story!
I highly recommend this book to any romance reader/ historical romance lover. This is a must read! Thank you Elizabeth for writing another truly amazing story!
September 24, 2018
This is a great historical fiction. It's well-written, has amazing, well-developed as well as interesting characters, and it's quite entertaining read. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend to all book lovers. It's definitely one of a kind book that kept me intrigued, especially because of the mysterious way Lawrence Campion acted from the start. I really loved his character.
Flora is tired of her interfering sister. She plans to leave town and start her life somewhere faraway so that her sister can no longer bother her. She is old enough to know that marriage is not in the cards for her any more. Now she just wants to love an independent life, where she can do whatever she loves to do and not have her every action questioned by her nosy sister and her spies. What she didn't count on is falling for Lawrence Campion, he is not the man she should trust but she can't help but feel drawn to him for some reason.
Lawrence goal is to earn enough money so that he can sail to America. There are things from her past that are still haunting him. Maybe if he went to America he will finally be free. Unfortunately, Flora is a complication he didn't anticipate. But he is willing to protect her at all costs. Also he can't help but feel attracted to this amazing woman. Still shackling himself with one woman is not at all his intention, no matter how beautiful the said woman is.
It's a well paced and interesting historical novel that anyone would enjoy. It's worth a read. I loved the story.
Merged review:
This is a great historical fiction. It's well-written, has amazing, well-developed as well as interesting characters, and it's quite entertaining read. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend to all book lovers. It's definitely one of a kind book that kept me intrigued, especially because of the mysterious way Lawrence Campion acted from the start. I really loved his character.
Flora is tired of her interfering sister. She plans to leave town and start her life somewhere faraway so that her sister can no longer bother her. She is old enough to know that marriage is not in the cards for her any more. Now she just wants to love an independent life, where she can do whatever she loves to do and not have her every action questioned by her nosy sister and her spies. What she didn't count on is falling for Lawrence Campion, he is not the man she should trust but she can't help but feel drawn to him for some reason.
Lawrence goal is to earn enough money so that he can sail to America. There are things from her past that are still haunting him. Maybe if he went to America he will finally be free. Unfortunately, Flora is a complication he didn't anticipate. But he is willing to protect her at all costs. Also he can't help but feel attracted to this amazing woman. Still shackling himself with one woman is not at all his intention, no matter how beautiful the said woman is.
It's a well paced and interesting historical novel that anyone would enjoy. It's worth a read. I loved the story.
Flora is tired of her interfering sister. She plans to leave town and start her life somewhere faraway so that her sister can no longer bother her. She is old enough to know that marriage is not in the cards for her any more. Now she just wants to love an independent life, where she can do whatever she loves to do and not have her every action questioned by her nosy sister and her spies. What she didn't count on is falling for Lawrence Campion, he is not the man she should trust but she can't help but feel drawn to him for some reason.
Lawrence goal is to earn enough money so that he can sail to America. There are things from her past that are still haunting him. Maybe if he went to America he will finally be free. Unfortunately, Flora is a complication he didn't anticipate. But he is willing to protect her at all costs. Also he can't help but feel attracted to this amazing woman. Still shackling himself with one woman is not at all his intention, no matter how beautiful the said woman is.
It's a well paced and interesting historical novel that anyone would enjoy. It's worth a read. I loved the story.
Merged review:
This is a great historical fiction. It's well-written, has amazing, well-developed as well as interesting characters, and it's quite entertaining read. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend to all book lovers. It's definitely one of a kind book that kept me intrigued, especially because of the mysterious way Lawrence Campion acted from the start. I really loved his character.
Flora is tired of her interfering sister. She plans to leave town and start her life somewhere faraway so that her sister can no longer bother her. She is old enough to know that marriage is not in the cards for her any more. Now she just wants to love an independent life, where she can do whatever she loves to do and not have her every action questioned by her nosy sister and her spies. What she didn't count on is falling for Lawrence Campion, he is not the man she should trust but she can't help but feel drawn to him for some reason.
Lawrence goal is to earn enough money so that he can sail to America. There are things from her past that are still haunting him. Maybe if he went to America he will finally be free. Unfortunately, Flora is a complication he didn't anticipate. But he is willing to protect her at all costs. Also he can't help but feel attracted to this amazing woman. Still shackling himself with one woman is not at all his intention, no matter how beautiful the said woman is.
It's a well paced and interesting historical novel that anyone would enjoy. It's worth a read. I loved the story.
September 12, 2018
Flora is a young woman lives alone after her niece marries a Lord and takes her mother, Flora's sister to live with her. Flora is very interested in the medicines that Dr. L. E. Campaign, an itinerant physician who peddles his medications from a wagon. Flora is followed around by the Mrs Reverend Daniell who is supposed to be a chaperone but turns out to be a self righteous snoop. Flora has seen Lawrence before and has been using his medications for quite sometime. She has been communicating and ordering meds from him for a year. With his dark good looks, she thinks he is the most handsome man that she has ever seen. Lawrence notices her right away and gives her a hair tonic that accidentally turns her hair a different color. When she goes back to demand he fix what he did to her hair, he invites her to join his show as his assistant. She becomes Madame Julietta for a short time. They fall in love but he has interests that could get him hung. They both have secrets. Hers is that she was betrothed and he drowned when he ship went down.. He has many secrets, but one is that he was stolen as a child and doesn't know who his real family is. He also, has many dangerous things that he is involved in that would result in death of jail. I adored this story of a traveling medicine man and a spinster. So much more than a romance. There's adventure, danger, mystery, Redcoats and salvaging from ships. The ending is so good and no, I haven't given any away. It's just that good. I received this book from Net Galley and Entangled Publishing for a honest review and no compensation otherwise.
September 24, 2018
When Miss Flora Hartington bumps into a handsome, kind traveling apothecary, she sees her chance at adventure, so she jumps at the opportunity. But this is a temporary solution to her very big problem of her family trying to control her entire future.
Kidnapped by traveling folk as a child, Lawrence Campion has no idea who he really is. The last thing he needs when he wants to go to America where he can become a real doctor is the beautiful and feisty Flora. However, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her, and then be off to fulfill his dreams. But Lawrence has a past that is quickly catching up with him.
Will the secret he carries destroy both his and Flora's plans?
Are these two destined for one another?
This is the second title in this standalone series. Elizabeth Keysian has done a good job with both titles though this one may be my favorite of the two.
There is just a bit of suspense a lot of mayhem and just enough romance to keep your interest.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3 of 5 flames. There is intimacy involved but not really scorching in nature.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Kidnapped by traveling folk as a child, Lawrence Campion has no idea who he really is. The last thing he needs when he wants to go to America where he can become a real doctor is the beautiful and feisty Flora. However, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her, and then be off to fulfill his dreams. But Lawrence has a past that is quickly catching up with him.
Will the secret he carries destroy both his and Flora's plans?
Are these two destined for one another?
This is the second title in this standalone series. Elizabeth Keysian has done a good job with both titles though this one may be my favorite of the two.
There is just a bit of suspense a lot of mayhem and just enough romance to keep your interest.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3 of 5 flames. There is intimacy involved but not really scorching in nature.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
September 15, 2018
When Miss Flora Hartington is given the chance of an adventure, a brief escape from the shackles of propriety, and she jumps at the opportunity. Kidnapped by travelling folk as a child, Lawrence Campion yearns to be a real doctor, which means earning passage to America. The last thing he needs is to be saddled with the beautiful and feisty Flora. However, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her, and then be off to fulfill his dreams.
I’ve read & enjoyed all of the author's books & thoroughly enjoyed this too. No glittering ballrooms & simpering debutantes but an on the shelf spinster & a travelling apothecary. The story drew me in from the start & kept my interest all the way through. I really liked Flora & felt sorry for her that her elder sister still had her watched even though Lucinda had moved away. I had my doubts about Lawrence as he was far too charming & bit of a conman. However their attraction & verbal spats won me over. Another well written, well researched book, with believable characters that was a delightful read.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I’ve read & enjoyed all of the author's books & thoroughly enjoyed this too. No glittering ballrooms & simpering debutantes but an on the shelf spinster & a travelling apothecary. The story drew me in from the start & kept my interest all the way through. I really liked Flora & felt sorry for her that her elder sister still had her watched even though Lucinda had moved away. I had my doubts about Lawrence as he was far too charming & bit of a conman. However their attraction & verbal spats won me over. Another well written, well researched book, with believable characters that was a delightful read.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
September 26, 2018
I received an advanced review copy of A Potion for Passion.
This story had unique characters which I found refreshing. Lawrence, the hero is a traveling doctor and Flora, the heroine is a woman whose every move is monitored by people assigned by her sister.
There are memorable scenes and unique characters.
Flora doesn’t live her life the way she would like to since she’s constantly under scrutiny and feels pressured to maintain an image of propriety. Lawrence is a wanderer who has never wanted to settle and doesn’t get emotionally involved with anyone.
I enjoyed the interactions between Flora and Lawrence and it was great to see these two characters change and grow as the story progressed.
This story had unique characters which I found refreshing. Lawrence, the hero is a traveling doctor and Flora, the heroine is a woman whose every move is monitored by people assigned by her sister.
There are memorable scenes and unique characters.
Flora doesn’t live her life the way she would like to since she’s constantly under scrutiny and feels pressured to maintain an image of propriety. Lawrence is a wanderer who has never wanted to settle and doesn’t get emotionally involved with anyone.
I enjoyed the interactions between Flora and Lawrence and it was great to see these two characters change and grow as the story progressed.
September 24, 2018
This book was a definite departure from the stories of the ton. Miss Flora Hartington finds herself captivated by the travelling apothecary Lawrence Campion. In him, she sees an adventure whilst he is desperate to earn sufficient funds to travel to America, and does need romance. I must admit that it took some time to embrace both characters; Flora is very naïve whilst Lawrence appeared to be just a bit too smooth. However, their clear attraction to each other and their dialogue proved to be very entertaining. This together with attention to detail regarding the period in time, made for an enjoyable read .
I received an advanced review copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received an advanced review copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
September 26, 2018
This is not your typical historical romance. Flora and Lawerance have different reasons for wanting to go on the road together. And find out really their both looking for a life independent of who and what everyone else sees them becoming. And along the way, they fall in love with each other's true self and not who they thought the other was.
September 23, 2018
Thanks Entangled Publishing, LLC and netgalley for this ARC.
This is a continuation from the previous romance in this series but it can be a standalone. Loved the way Keynesian brought the countryside into the story. All the right elements we want in a romance.
This is a continuation from the previous romance in this series but it can be a standalone. Loved the way Keynesian brought the countryside into the story. All the right elements we want in a romance.
Want to read
September 25, 2018A Potion for Passion by Elizabeth Keysian is the story of Flora Hartington and Lawrence Campion.
Lawrence is a traveling apothecary who wants to get enough money to go to America to purse becoming a Doctor. Flora is tired of her sister and other being in her business. Flora wants independence and adventure. Flora ends up hitching herself to Lawrence who wants to protect her but also has his goal of leaving for America. Their feelings and attraction for each other was growing but would their goals allow for them to be together.
I know when I see Ms. Keysian name on a book that I am going to be getting a great story...and this one was no different. Loved it!
Lawrence is a traveling apothecary who wants to get enough money to go to America to purse becoming a Doctor. Flora is tired of her sister and other being in her business. Flora wants independence and adventure. Flora ends up hitching herself to Lawrence who wants to protect her but also has his goal of leaving for America. Their feelings and attraction for each other was growing but would their goals allow for them to be together.
I know when I see Ms. Keysian name on a book that I am going to be getting a great story...and this one was no different. Loved it!
September 28, 2018
I’ve read several books by this author, and I have found them to be a mixed bag. A few I liked, a few I didn’t. I tried to like this, but honestly found it stupid and incredulous. I read 45% and just couldn’t continue. It had an unlikeable H, and an annoyingly stupid h. They deserve each other, and I deserve to move on to a book worth reading. I received a free arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2018
A very odd and quirky story. The characters are outlandish in their actions in an effort to deflect from their true intentions. It is a wild ride of missed signals, missed directions and an eventual HEA.
September 10, 2018
I received a free ARC version of the book from Netgally in exchange for a honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I'm in the medical profession and as much as I want to like Lawrence, he is a quack and a fraud that knows a little bit about herbal remedies. I know at the time traveling 'doctors' we're common and so we're their so called cures. At least he is trying to use his herbal expertise in his concoctions instead of accidentally poisoning his patrons. His cures are probably as good as some of the actual doctor's at the time. It still makes me dislike him.
For a quack, he is charming. All the women like him and he takes advantage of the fact in more then one town. Even Flora, our main character likes him but she has a weird sense of naivety and intuition that makes her unique. I regret to say I don't trust her opinion or that of any of the women characters in this book. Flora does loose alot of her naivety throughout the book but I still have trouble liking her character either.
Despite my dislike of the characters, the book was very well written and shows a great fictional rendition of a traveling apothecary at the time (albiet with a lot of poetic license thrown in). The romance between the characters was also well done and felt appropriately spicy.
I'm in the medical profession and as much as I want to like Lawrence, he is a quack and a fraud that knows a little bit about herbal remedies. I know at the time traveling 'doctors' we're common and so we're their so called cures. At least he is trying to use his herbal expertise in his concoctions instead of accidentally poisoning his patrons. His cures are probably as good as some of the actual doctor's at the time. It still makes me dislike him.
For a quack, he is charming. All the women like him and he takes advantage of the fact in more then one town. Even Flora, our main character likes him but she has a weird sense of naivety and intuition that makes her unique. I regret to say I don't trust her opinion or that of any of the women characters in this book. Flora does loose alot of her naivety throughout the book but I still have trouble liking her character either.
Despite my dislike of the characters, the book was very well written and shows a great fictional rendition of a traveling apothecary at the time (albiet with a lot of poetic license thrown in). The romance between the characters was also well done and felt appropriately spicy.
September 10, 2018
I really enjoyed Flora and Lawrence's story. This one stands out because the setting is not the glittering ballrooms of the ton. Lawrence is a traveling apothecary and while Flora is the aunt to a countess, she doesn't go out in society other than to local entertainments.
Flora is ready for an adventure, so when Lawrence offers her one, she jumps on the chance. They end up traveling together for a few weeks, but Flora knows it will all come to an end shortly. Will they let their passions lead them to something bigger, or will they let this opportunity pass them by?
This was a great addition to the Wanton is Wessex series!
Flora is ready for an adventure, so when Lawrence offers her one, she jumps on the chance. They end up traveling together for a few weeks, but Flora knows it will all come to an end shortly. Will they let their passions lead them to something bigger, or will they let this opportunity pass them by?
This was a great addition to the Wanton is Wessex series!
September 12, 2018
I have read most all of Ms. Keysian’s stories and they are quirky and fun and just bring you into their worlds. That being said, I was unsure about this book – I could not have been more wrong. This is my favorite book so far and I had a blast reading it. The hero, Lawrence, with his dealings not the most legal in nature is what made it all the more interesting to read. How could he redeem himself? Flora just wants excitement which she definitely got. If only more women, even in today’s environment, would just let themselves live and not be constrained by society’s norm.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
October 6, 2018
Flora has sworn off love and is determined just to leave town and be free. Then, the traveling apothecary Lawrence comes into town, and she tries to get some medicine to calm her frazzled nerves. She gets a lot more than she bargained for, as she starts falling for Lawrence and he starts falling for her. Lawrence has a bit more up his sleeve than simply being an apothecary. He likes Flora, but he doesn't know if he should drag her into his life.
I have to say, it did take me a little bit of time to really get into these characters. But once I got into the characters, I fell in love with them. Flora was independent and had just decided not to love anyone anymore, but then she finds Lawrence and decides to give love a try again. Lawrence never got the chance to be loved, and he was always traveling. Lawrence just has to figure out how to break through Flora's shell and get to her heart.
The plot moved smoothly, and it wasn't as fast-paced as some historical romance novels are. I felt as if I really go to know the characters and were able to see their individual lives and personalities as I continued with the story. There was a lot of chemistry between the characters which is another thing that I missed from historical romance novels! These two truly loved each other, and the author makes sure that this is clear.
I can't say too much about Lawrence's true past, as it has a lot of spoilers, but I have to say that it was one of my favorite things about this story. He has such a complicated backstory that I couldn't wait until more and more was revealed about him.
I would definitely recommend this story to anyone looking for a new adult historical romance/slight suspense and mystery novel to read.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
I have to say, it did take me a little bit of time to really get into these characters. But once I got into the characters, I fell in love with them. Flora was independent and had just decided not to love anyone anymore, but then she finds Lawrence and decides to give love a try again. Lawrence never got the chance to be loved, and he was always traveling. Lawrence just has to figure out how to break through Flora's shell and get to her heart.
The plot moved smoothly, and it wasn't as fast-paced as some historical romance novels are. I felt as if I really go to know the characters and were able to see their individual lives and personalities as I continued with the story. There was a lot of chemistry between the characters which is another thing that I missed from historical romance novels! These two truly loved each other, and the author makes sure that this is clear.
I can't say too much about Lawrence's true past, as it has a lot of spoilers, but I have to say that it was one of my favorite things about this story. He has such a complicated backstory that I couldn't wait until more and more was revealed about him.
I would definitely recommend this story to anyone looking for a new adult historical romance/slight suspense and mystery novel to read.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
October 13, 2018
This delightful book is the second book in the Wanton in Wessex series. However, if you haven't read the first, this one totally stands alone. Most Regency romances center around the lords and ladies of the ton, but not this book. The closest Flora gets to the ton is being an aunt by marriage to a man of the peerage. Our hero Lawrence is a traveling apothecary. He wants to become a real healer, but is attempting to earn money for passage to America by traveling around, performing medicine shows and selling his tonics. Oh....he also sells goods on the side, goods of dubious origins that he buys from a very disreputable person.
When Flora uses one of Lawrence's tonics that turns her hair a bright red, she is not happy. Flora has bought lots of remedies from Lawrence because they work (usually!) ...and she is also drawn to our handsome hero. The two began an adventure with traveling medicine shows, wreckers of ships and redcoats. This is a nice change of pace from the same old cookie cutter romances. This is one fun, romantic read.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley. I have received no compensation for this review, and all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
When Flora uses one of Lawrence's tonics that turns her hair a bright red, she is not happy. Flora has bought lots of remedies from Lawrence because they work (usually!) ...and she is also drawn to our handsome hero. The two began an adventure with traveling medicine shows, wreckers of ships and redcoats. This is a nice change of pace from the same old cookie cutter romances. This is one fun, romantic read.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley. I have received no compensation for this review, and all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
September 27, 2018
Miss Flora Hartington is a spinster of twenty seven. Her sister and her daughter moved in with her. Her daughter marries an Earl and her mother moves into the Dowager cottage. She sets her spies in the guise of Reverend Daniels and his family. She justs wants to be left alone so she can be independent and free. Dr. Lawrence Campion is a traveling peddler and con man. He wants to be a Doctor but he hasn't had the money. He is saving to go to America.
I enjoyed the interactions of the characters and their eccentricity. They tend to deal on the wrong side of the road. The storyline is a little complicated by it kept my interest. It was well written, moved smoothly and held your attention. The description of the surrounding flora, fauna, tents, and wagons
helped bring your attention to the antics of the characters. One good example was when he had to pull a tooth from a shady character to save him he knew from the soldiers. It was humorous.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed this.
I enjoyed the interactions of the characters and their eccentricity. They tend to deal on the wrong side of the road. The storyline is a little complicated by it kept my interest. It was well written, moved smoothly and held your attention. The description of the surrounding flora, fauna, tents, and wagons
helped bring your attention to the antics of the characters. One good example was when he had to pull a tooth from a shady character to save him he knew from the soldiers. It was humorous.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed this.
October 8, 2018
Since her sister's daughter married an Earl, Miss Flora Harrington has enjoyed having her home to herself. Except for the busy body vicar and his wife that her sister set to spy on her. Flora just wants to save enough to go into partnership with a milliner and decorate hats. At the moment though she is distracted by the handsome travelling doctor selling his wares from his caravan.
Lawrence Campion was brought up by travelers who abducted him as a toddler. He has no desire anymore to discover his roots. He is happy with his slightly dishonest life, and the side benefit of all the women he wants.
Our adventurous heroine will get much more than she bargained for. Our naughty hero has some dramatic risks to take.
An unusual and highly entertaining romance with fabulous characters. Lots of fun. I loved it.
Lawrence Campion was brought up by travelers who abducted him as a toddler. He has no desire anymore to discover his roots. He is happy with his slightly dishonest life, and the side benefit of all the women he wants.
Our adventurous heroine will get much more than she bargained for. Our naughty hero has some dramatic risks to take.
An unusual and highly entertaining romance with fabulous characters. Lots of fun. I loved it.
February 22, 2019
This is my favourite historical romance to date. You won't find any of your usual ballroom scenes in this exciting, adventurous romp. The well bred (independant) heroine is more likely to be pulling out teeth than receiving calling cards.
The story was vivid. The heroine a charming breath of fresh air. The hero was #badboy regency style.
I'm a Keysian fan... And I never thought I'd be able to pick my favourite until I read this book. The only complaint I have about it (and it is very trivial) is that the person creating the cover for it doesn't seem to have read the story. The book couldn't be more different from the cover if they'd tried.
I can't wait to read Keysian's next book; I shall clear out my Jane Austen novels to make more room for hers.
You need this book.
The story was vivid. The heroine a charming breath of fresh air. The hero was #badboy regency style.
I'm a Keysian fan... And I never thought I'd be able to pick my favourite until I read this book. The only complaint I have about it (and it is very trivial) is that the person creating the cover for it doesn't seem to have read the story. The book couldn't be more different from the cover if they'd tried.
I can't wait to read Keysian's next book; I shall clear out my Jane Austen novels to make more room for hers.
You need this book.
September 30, 2018
This is an interesting story of a shy spinster blossoming into a lovely, feisty vixen and the adventures she faces. Lawrence, whose character is often in question, is redeemed and reformed when he falls in love with Flora. The story gives a good look at the nefarious business of scavenging and those that made a living off of the misfortunes of sailors and merchants. The romantic journey this couple takes is filled with stops and starts and so many interruptions it is heartwarming when they finally find time alone.
November 6, 2018
When it comes to Ms. Keysian, I don’t have to question a thing; I’m going to read it and I’m going to love it. This author has wiggled her way into my heart and my reading pile with her amazing writing, engaging characters, defined worlds, and the interesting storylines. Just say yes to Keysian and enjoy the adventure...I always do!
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
December 21, 2018
This was my first book by Elizabeth Keysian and it was a page turner! Flora and Lawrence will have you laughing and feeling the passion these two share. I can't wait to read book 3.
October 29, 2023
Reading a historical romance written by Ms. Keysian is a must, as she has a way of drawing readers - especially this reader -- into her stories with engrossing main and secondary characters and interesting plots where the characters go through a lot to be together and this story was no different.
Really, this was a well-written, engaging read with strong characters that have interesting back stories, a couple with lots of chemistry, a plot that had me reading this story in one sitting and an ending that had me cheering for this couple.
I really liked Flora. She's determined to break free from her overbearing sister who loves to interfere in her life. She also knows she shouldn't trust Lawrence, but for some reason being around him is comforting because she can be herself. Falling for Lawrence wasn't in the cards for Flora, but sometimes life is full of surprises. While Lawrence, he's mysterious and has plans for his life. He never counted on Flora coming into his life, but he's drawn to her and he can't help but want to protect her. Be there for her when it seems her sister certainly isn't. She'd rather judge Flora than accept her for the woman she is.
Overall, Ms. Keysian is a wonderful author and I can't wait to read more of her books.
Really, this was a well-written, engaging read with strong characters that have interesting back stories, a couple with lots of chemistry, a plot that had me reading this story in one sitting and an ending that had me cheering for this couple.
I really liked Flora. She's determined to break free from her overbearing sister who loves to interfere in her life. She also knows she shouldn't trust Lawrence, but for some reason being around him is comforting because she can be herself. Falling for Lawrence wasn't in the cards for Flora, but sometimes life is full of surprises. While Lawrence, he's mysterious and has plans for his life. He never counted on Flora coming into his life, but he's drawn to her and he can't help but want to protect her. Be there for her when it seems her sister certainly isn't. She'd rather judge Flora than accept her for the woman she is.
Overall, Ms. Keysian is a wonderful author and I can't wait to read more of her books.
July 28, 2020
The second book in the Wanton in Wessex a well written story that held my interest until the end. Miss Flora Hartington and Lawrence Campion's story of a man who does not really know who he is. I enjoyed seeing this story come together.
January 26, 2020
I enjoyed this book. It had unique and colorful characters and an interesting story. If you are looking to read something a little different with a HEA then this is the book for you.
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