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Potions and Passions #0.5
The Earl on the Train
An earl with a problem.
Nicholas Masterson, Lord Sharpe, has a problem with potions. He won’t drink them, he craves them, and they’re getting weaker by the day. When his spymaster uncle requests that he travel from London to India to investigate, he reluctantly agrees and hops on an early morning train.
A woman with a plan.
Ida Quimby has set herself a goal: begin a new life as an elite perfumer, selling potion-based perfumes to the highest tier of London society. But when her good-for-nothing brother reneges on his promise to supply her with the magic serum for her potions, she takes matters into her own hands and sets out for India to confront him.
The journey of a lifetime.
A chance meeting on a train brings Nick and Ida together, starting them down a path of mystery and intrigue that could get them both killed. Or lead them to a love for all times.
Nicholas Masterson, Lord Sharpe, has a problem with potions. He won’t drink them, he craves them, and they’re getting weaker by the day. When his spymaster uncle requests that he travel from London to India to investigate, he reluctantly agrees and hops on an early morning train.
A woman with a plan.
Ida Quimby has set herself a goal: begin a new life as an elite perfumer, selling potion-based perfumes to the highest tier of London society. But when her good-for-nothing brother reneges on his promise to supply her with the magic serum for her potions, she takes matters into her own hands and sets out for India to confront him.
The journey of a lifetime.
A chance meeting on a train brings Nick and Ida together, starting them down a path of mystery and intrigue that could get them both killed. Or lead them to a love for all times.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 2, 2019
64 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Stein
28 books169 followersAward-winning author Catherine Stein believes that everyone deserves love and that Happily Ever After has the power to help, to heal, and to comfort. She writes sassy, sexy romance set during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Her books are full of action, adventure, magic, and fantastic technologies.
Catherine lives in Michigan with her husband and three rambunctious kids. She loves steampunk and Oxford commas, and can often be found dressed in Renaissance Festival clothing, drinking copious amounts of tea.
Catherine lives in Michigan with her husband and three rambunctious kids. She loves steampunk and Oxford commas, and can often be found dressed in Renaissance Festival clothing, drinking copious amounts of tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 18, 2019
First of all, beautiful cover and as I read, exactly how I pictured Ida, our heroine.
Ida is embarking on a quest to fit all the pieces together needed for her business of making perfumes. She uses serum in her perfumes, which is also used in the making of the ever popular potions in this Victorian world.
Nick is a potions specialist and recovering addict. He has a nose for potion ingredients and has been seeing the problem of potion strength and endurance lacking recently. Their quests collide on a train where they form a partnership and travel together.
Lots to love about this book. I enjoyed Catherine’s writing style and found her potions world interesting but not overwhelming. Humorous with unique characters. I really enjoyed all the dialogue.
It’s very action packed, road trip romance. I loved seeing France, Italy and India through their eyes. This story was reminiscent of Amanda Quick to me, in a good way. Just fun characters that are involved with a whimsical aspect, working together and forging that bond that turns into love.
I actually wasn’t loving Nicks nickname for Ida, or the reason behind it, but the way it was addressed and called out in the story made me laugh and forgive it all. I will certainly be giving her other books a try.
Ida is embarking on a quest to fit all the pieces together needed for her business of making perfumes. She uses serum in her perfumes, which is also used in the making of the ever popular potions in this Victorian world.
Nick is a potions specialist and recovering addict. He has a nose for potion ingredients and has been seeing the problem of potion strength and endurance lacking recently. Their quests collide on a train where they form a partnership and travel together.
Lots to love about this book. I enjoyed Catherine’s writing style and found her potions world interesting but not overwhelming. Humorous with unique characters. I really enjoyed all the dialogue.
It’s very action packed, road trip romance. I loved seeing France, Italy and India through their eyes. This story was reminiscent of Amanda Quick to me, in a good way. Just fun characters that are involved with a whimsical aspect, working together and forging that bond that turns into love.
I actually wasn’t loving Nicks nickname for Ida, or the reason behind it, but the way it was addressed and called out in the story made me laugh and forgive it all. I will certainly be giving her other books a try.
March 29, 2021
5 Enthusiastic Stars.
My rating guide: 1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= Yes, I mostly enjoyed it; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= A FAVORITE! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
I absolutely love Catherine Stein novels! THE EARL ON THE TRAIN novella, prequel in her PASSIONS AND POTIONS series, was another delightful adventure as the main characters travel from England to India via train and steam ship in search of answers. Stein’s novels are always filled with numerous researched tidbits so I truly feel as if I am present, along for the ride.
February 1882 ~
Nicholas Masterson, 29yrs and the 5th Earl of Sharpe since the age of 19, is a scholarly inclined man, a recovering potions addict but also a gifted potions expert. Nicholas is approached by his uncle, Lord Ayleston, who works covertly with the Prime Minister on specific secret projects, to investigate the cause of England’s declining supply of imported potions and serums which, besides creating dangerous personal addictions, power much of England’s technology. Bold and independent heiress Miss Ida Quimby/FMC, at 23yrs is the hopeful entrepreneur and creator of high quality, custom perfumes derived from serums. She is also heading to India to discover why her valued serum supply has diminished with no explanation.
THE EARL ON THE TRAIN novella is a delightful adventure which brings prospective business woman Miss Ida Quimby and Nicholas, Lord Sharpe together as they travel through foreign lands. They face various threats and dangers while traveling abroad from unknown assailants. Who is behind the attacks and either wants them dead, or at the very least hopes to convince them to return to England with their questions regarding the serum unanswered? How far are the villains willing to go to accomplish their goal? Who or what is interrupting the supply of Indian serum, and is it permanent?
I happily recommend THE EARL ON THE TRAIN (and each Stein novel) to readers who enjoy Steampunk, and/or quirky action-adventure novels (such as Amelia Peabody Mysteries, Veronica Speedwell Mysteries, Below Stairs Mysteries or Anne Renwick Steampunk novels). TEOTT can be read as a standalone title but I highly recommend each book in the PASSIONS AND POTIONS series, as all are wonderful, and follow a central story arc (read in order for best enjoyment). THE EARL ON THE TRAIN is the prequel novella. Ms. Stein is one of the few authors I still auto-buy on preorder without hesitation. She does not disappoint! Her main characters are intelligent, capable and honorable people who bring out the best qualities in their mate. Generally, they are individuals who have been overlooked or misunderstood; they are the underdog, people who have been deemed unusual or “beyond the pale.” Stein’s novels are low-angst, fun, unique, quirky & clever! with sweet HEAs. The cover grabbed my attention from the start.
READER CAUTIONS - I love this story but it may not be appropriate for all readers.
VIOLENCE - PG, nothing dark, graphic, or disturbing.
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used on occasion.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. The 2 main characters’ attraction turns to intimacy beginning around the mid-point of the book. That being said, THE EARL ON THE TRAIN is much more than the intimacy scenes. It is about individuals being themselves, and the wonder of finding that special person who “gets” them and loves them for who they are, without pretense.
My rating guide: 1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= Yes, I mostly enjoyed it; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= A FAVORITE! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
I absolutely love Catherine Stein novels! THE EARL ON THE TRAIN novella, prequel in her PASSIONS AND POTIONS series, was another delightful adventure as the main characters travel from England to India via train and steam ship in search of answers. Stein’s novels are always filled with numerous researched tidbits so I truly feel as if I am present, along for the ride.
February 1882 ~
Nicholas Masterson, 29yrs and the 5th Earl of Sharpe since the age of 19, is a scholarly inclined man, a recovering potions addict but also a gifted potions expert. Nicholas is approached by his uncle, Lord Ayleston, who works covertly with the Prime Minister on specific secret projects, to investigate the cause of England’s declining supply of imported potions and serums which, besides creating dangerous personal addictions, power much of England’s technology. Bold and independent heiress Miss Ida Quimby/FMC, at 23yrs is the hopeful entrepreneur and creator of high quality, custom perfumes derived from serums. She is also heading to India to discover why her valued serum supply has diminished with no explanation.
THE EARL ON THE TRAIN novella is a delightful adventure which brings prospective business woman Miss Ida Quimby and Nicholas, Lord Sharpe together as they travel through foreign lands. They face various threats and dangers while traveling abroad from unknown assailants. Who is behind the attacks and either wants them dead, or at the very least hopes to convince them to return to England with their questions regarding the serum unanswered? How far are the villains willing to go to accomplish their goal? Who or what is interrupting the supply of Indian serum, and is it permanent?
I happily recommend THE EARL ON THE TRAIN (and each Stein novel) to readers who enjoy Steampunk, and/or quirky action-adventure novels (such as Amelia Peabody Mysteries, Veronica Speedwell Mysteries, Below Stairs Mysteries or Anne Renwick Steampunk novels). TEOTT can be read as a standalone title but I highly recommend each book in the PASSIONS AND POTIONS series, as all are wonderful, and follow a central story arc (read in order for best enjoyment). THE EARL ON THE TRAIN is the prequel novella. Ms. Stein is one of the few authors I still auto-buy on preorder without hesitation. She does not disappoint! Her main characters are intelligent, capable and honorable people who bring out the best qualities in their mate. Generally, they are individuals who have been overlooked or misunderstood; they are the underdog, people who have been deemed unusual or “beyond the pale.” Stein’s novels are low-angst, fun, unique, quirky & clever! with sweet HEAs. The cover grabbed my attention from the start.
READER CAUTIONS - I love this story but it may not be appropriate for all readers.
VIOLENCE - PG, nothing dark, graphic, or disturbing.
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used on occasion.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. The 2 main characters’ attraction turns to intimacy beginning around the mid-point of the book. That being said, THE EARL ON THE TRAIN is much more than the intimacy scenes. It is about individuals being themselves, and the wonder of finding that special person who “gets” them and loves them for who they are, without pretense.
January 17, 2019
I gave Catherine's first book 5 stars so it shouldn't be a surprise I'm going to give this one 5 stars as well. It's not a full length novel, it's a novella (200ish pages), but it feels whole, if you know what i mean.
Plot: It's set in the same Victorian steampunk world as the previous book, where potions play a big part in society. The action is set around the same time as the first novel, with a global shortage of serum (from which potions are mixed) as the key plot driver. Once again we travel around the globe with the characters, from the UK to France, Italy, Egypt and India. They meet on a train (hence the title!)
Female character: Ida is FULL of surprises. An intrepid traveller, a businesswoman and parfumeur, she has a scandal in her past, and can wield a parasol like a weapon 😀. I really like her, she's a bit different from Elle (the character in the first book) due to station in life and others.
Male character: What can I say, Catherine Stein LOOOVES her beta heroes and so do I. Here we have the Earl who'd rather decorate a room tastefully, rather than shoot or sparr or any other gentlemanly pursuit of this time. And.... he has an addiction!!! I think this is probably the first HR i've read where the hero has an addiction. If you know of any more, please share in comments.
Chemistry: Off the charts, guaranteed HEA, medium steam.
Overall: A solid all rounder for me, and I definitely look forward to more of Catherine's books.
NOTE: This is fairly standalone, you can read it out of order but my advice would be to read the first one How to Seduce a Spy first. Just my two cents.
Plot: It's set in the same Victorian steampunk world as the previous book, where potions play a big part in society. The action is set around the same time as the first novel, with a global shortage of serum (from which potions are mixed) as the key plot driver. Once again we travel around the globe with the characters, from the UK to France, Italy, Egypt and India. They meet on a train (hence the title!)
Female character: Ida is FULL of surprises. An intrepid traveller, a businesswoman and parfumeur, she has a scandal in her past, and can wield a parasol like a weapon 😀. I really like her, she's a bit different from Elle (the character in the first book) due to station in life and others.
Male character: What can I say, Catherine Stein LOOOVES her beta heroes and so do I. Here we have the Earl who'd rather decorate a room tastefully, rather than shoot or sparr or any other gentlemanly pursuit of this time. And.... he has an addiction!!! I think this is probably the first HR i've read where the hero has an addiction. If you know of any more, please share in comments.
Chemistry: Off the charts, guaranteed HEA, medium steam.
Overall: A solid all rounder for me, and I definitely look forward to more of Catherine's books.
NOTE: This is fairly standalone, you can read it out of order but my advice would be to read the first one How to Seduce a Spy first. Just my two cents.
April 12, 2019
Catherine Stein describes herself as an author of Steampunk romance novels. This novella does have some elements of fantasy, but they are so relatable to real life, especially the issue of addiction to “potions”, that I did not feel like I was reading anything paranormal, which I am not usually into with a few exceptions, and enjoyed this read immensely.
This author has a unique voice and her characters are all round. You don’t get stereotyped cardboard characters who seem to act on a preordained script. What you get is a hero and a heroine with flaws who develop over the course of the story. A seasick earl with an addiction issue and a control-freak ever chattering middle-class woman desperate to start her own business after a “scandal” may not usually cross paths let alone fall in love, but when they do their interaction is sizzling and it sounds real, with physical attraction and genuine mutual feelings perfectly balanced. The mystery element was not overwhelming and it was perfectly intertwined in the plot and even if the mystery is not solved by the end of the book, leaving room for more books in the series to follow, the romance resolution is perfectly gratifying.
I recommend this read whole-heartedly and can’t wait to read more by this author.
This author has a unique voice and her characters are all round. You don’t get stereotyped cardboard characters who seem to act on a preordained script. What you get is a hero and a heroine with flaws who develop over the course of the story. A seasick earl with an addiction issue and a control-freak ever chattering middle-class woman desperate to start her own business after a “scandal” may not usually cross paths let alone fall in love, but when they do their interaction is sizzling and it sounds real, with physical attraction and genuine mutual feelings perfectly balanced. The mystery element was not overwhelming and it was perfectly intertwined in the plot and even if the mystery is not solved by the end of the book, leaving room for more books in the series to follow, the romance resolution is perfectly gratifying.
I recommend this read whole-heartedly and can’t wait to read more by this author.
January 10, 2019
Another amazing story by Catherine Stein.
As expected, the author hasn't disappointed us with her writing style which for me is the first author that I've read in the steampunk genre.
I love perfumes and honestly who doesn't? It was a fascinating story about potions, perfumes and two characters that have nothing in common but their attraction toward each other can be felt with each page that you read. Everything in this book is great,the setings ,the characters are very well pictured and i love that Nicholas is geting intrigued by Ida from the first moment because of her perfume and also because she is indeed a very different woman from what he is used to meet.
A journey full a great banter and finding love at the end of many suspensefull moments.
As expected, the author hasn't disappointed us with her writing style which for me is the first author that I've read in the steampunk genre.
I love perfumes and honestly who doesn't? It was a fascinating story about potions, perfumes and two characters that have nothing in common but their attraction toward each other can be felt with each page that you read. Everything in this book is great,the setings ,the characters are very well pictured and i love that Nicholas is geting intrigued by Ida from the first moment because of her perfume and also because she is indeed a very different woman from what he is used to meet.
A journey full a great banter and finding love at the end of many suspensefull moments.
May 31, 2021
Just like the first book of the Potions and Passions series, The Earl on the Train, carries the same level of well-written storyline that only enhances the series further. I was already in love with the world-building this author created in the first book, but I also really loved her versions of potions. Characters I thought were really well developed and I enjoyed the comedy aspect to them and their relationship. From the cover, you don't really expect how action-packed the storyline is, but well, it's quite actiony, which is great! There's plenty of cute little romantic scenes between Nick and Ida.
January 1, 2022
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. I found the would whimsical and humorous. I love the characters and their interactions on their journey on the train. Ida is working on what she needs to start a business with perfumes and Nicholas is recovering addict and potion specialist. The two of them met on the train and lead them on a mysterious adventure that could end in chaos or them find exactly what the two of them need. The style for this book made it a lot of fun to read and kept the story moving forward. I have to read it all in one setting.
March 28, 2019
I adored this book. I'm putting Catherine Stein on my must-read list. Her characters and their adventures are delightful. Everything about reading this story was a pleasure. I look forward to more from Ms. Stein.
January 2, 2019
The love of potions, the need for the magic serum for potions brings Nick and Ida together on a train. Set in 1882 this fantasy is about how potions have taken over people crave them over-indulge in them and do stupid things because of them wonder what another name for potion could be? It also appears as the whole country needs the magic serum to run the country. Now for the mystery and why Nick has to travel on a train? Ida needs the serum for her perfumes and she has to find out why she is not getting it. This unique tale was so interesting to read. It has a bit of steampunk feel to it and I just loved it. This well-written piece is one you will not go wrong with if fantasy is your thing. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
January 4, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this story with great characters, romance and intrigue. They met on a train and she kept talking to him, in spite of it annoying him. Then he got interested in her and they traveled together. Both were going to India regarding potions. She used them to make unique perfume and he was trying to determine why the potions were more expensive and not as strong. They both had people following them and attempts on their lives. The ending was great.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2019
This second installment of the Potions and Passions series did not disappoint in the slightest! Such well written characters and gripping plot, and a high-stakes, nail-biting finish! I eagerly await more from this series and this amazing author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2019
This is the first book by this Author that I have read I found it to be well-written and a story that held my interest until the end. I see there is another book by her that I will read at a later time.I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2018
If you haven't tried the Potions and Passions world, this long novella/short novel is the perfect place to start. If you have, it's a great appetizer to tide you over until the next full book! Hop aboard for another international adventure full of magic, action, and love.
April 28, 2020
4.5 stars
I don’t typically enjoy novellas; I find them leaving me dissatisfied with the story. I actually adored this! The characters were well fleshed out and the mystery/suspense subplot didn’t override the main story, but rather added a lovely additional layer. I giggled throughout, which was exactly what I needed. The fantasy/alternative steampunk past was excellently built and blended seamlessly with reality. The forward thinking attitudes of our hero and heroine were easy to believe in such a world. I was quite pleased with the twists and turns and look forward to future books from this author!
I don’t typically enjoy novellas; I find them leaving me dissatisfied with the story. I actually adored this! The characters were well fleshed out and the mystery/suspense subplot didn’t override the main story, but rather added a lovely additional layer. I giggled throughout, which was exactly what I needed. The fantasy/alternative steampunk past was excellently built and blended seamlessly with reality. The forward thinking attitudes of our hero and heroine were easy to believe in such a world. I was quite pleased with the twists and turns and look forward to future books from this author!
December 3, 2018
Many works this length are marketed as novels rather than novellas (170-ish pages) - so this is a full read, and you won't be disappointed. The Earl on the Train is a journey into Victorian times and across the British empire, and proved to be a truly delightful voyage to take with Nick & Ida! Having previously read "How to Seduce a Spy" I was excited to get back into this world, but the two could be read in either order and it would be understandable and not spoil the stories.
I loved the flawed and very human characters - that there was magic, but without contrived or phony feeling solutions to the problems faced - the presence of MORE THAN ONE (!!) powerful female (who even still could enjoy being femme!) - and was gripped by the storyline and nicely surprised at least a few times by turns in the plot.
Another one-sitting read by Catherine Stein. Hope she keeps them coming!
I loved the flawed and very human characters - that there was magic, but without contrived or phony feeling solutions to the problems faced - the presence of MORE THAN ONE (!!) powerful female (who even still could enjoy being femme!) - and was gripped by the storyline and nicely surprised at least a few times by turns in the plot.
Another one-sitting read by Catherine Stein. Hope she keeps them coming!
December 4, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from the author.
Nick has problems with names, so he gives Ida the nickname of Berries, because of her perfume, when he first meets her on a train. Who doesn't have problems remembering names? There were so many times when Nick was hoping Ida would introduce herself and she didn't that I almost died of laughter. If you enjoy romance, intrigue, and scandal, I would recommend this book.
I enjoyed the pace of the book as well as the glimpses of the characters from How to Seduce a Spy.
Nick has problems with names, so he gives Ida the nickname of Berries, because of her perfume, when he first meets her on a train. Who doesn't have problems remembering names? There were so many times when Nick was hoping Ida would introduce herself and she didn't that I almost died of laughter. If you enjoy romance, intrigue, and scandal, I would recommend this book.
I enjoyed the pace of the book as well as the glimpses of the characters from How to Seduce a Spy.
April 16, 2019
I was mildly entertained. However, call me an old fashioned fogey, but I just don't read historical novels for 21st century heroines and heroes. The situations here with room sharing, sex, attitudes just sounded so contemporary for today's issues. I like my historicals more true to the period. Sorry. I know Ms. Stein had travel info true to Victorian period, but characterizations and plot elements missed it. Just not for me.
February 7, 2019
I love this story that will keep you flipping pages throw in some surprise twist and turns to keep it entertaining throughout the entire book.
January 4, 2021
A world run by magic potions, a little adventure, and a bit of forced proximity (on a train), make this a novella full of my favorite things!
I love the Steampunk world Catherine Stein is building in this second installment of her Potions and Passions series, and I'm looking forward to future books!
I love the Steampunk world Catherine Stein is building in this second installment of her Potions and Passions series, and I'm looking forward to future books!
September 27, 2019
Review originally posted here: https://courtneyreadsromancesite.word...
Despite being billed as a "Potions and Passions Novella," The Earl on the Train is one of those in-between long novella/short novel books, that I was both able to finish almost in one sitting, but also felt like there was meat to the story a lot of novellas lack that make reviews for them harder to write, especially since the average novella speeds up the relationship development considerably.
That is not the case here. Once again, Stein crafts relatable characters on a globe-trotting adventure, full of perfumes and growing passions. Nick is yet another lovable hero, and his dynamic with Ida was fun. And while the idea of falling for someone before you really know their name can be something of turnoff for me, Nick seems to suffer from the very "me" trait of not being able to remember people's names at times, and it's executed in a rather adorable way, with him even nicknaming Ida "Berries." I also liked the deeper exploration into addiction in the context of the potions, and I felt it was executed in a very believable way.
And of course, Ida is fabulous...I love that she uses her parasol as a weapon! It's nice that, with a hero who has slightly calmer interests, we have a heroine who can readily defend herself...although the that's not to say Nick doesn't lack strength where it counts, but rather that they complement each other very well.
I enjoyed this one, and found it just as fun and charming as How to Seduce a Spy. This is marketed as something a loosely related prequel to that book, but you are welcome to read it any order you like. But I definitely recommend this one in particular for a fun, , short, fast read that will let you try out a new author (should you choose to start here), and the series so far in general to fans of magic-infused historical romance.
Despite being billed as a "Potions and Passions Novella," The Earl on the Train is one of those in-between long novella/short novel books, that I was both able to finish almost in one sitting, but also felt like there was meat to the story a lot of novellas lack that make reviews for them harder to write, especially since the average novella speeds up the relationship development considerably.
That is not the case here. Once again, Stein crafts relatable characters on a globe-trotting adventure, full of perfumes and growing passions. Nick is yet another lovable hero, and his dynamic with Ida was fun. And while the idea of falling for someone before you really know their name can be something of turnoff for me, Nick seems to suffer from the very "me" trait of not being able to remember people's names at times, and it's executed in a rather adorable way, with him even nicknaming Ida "Berries." I also liked the deeper exploration into addiction in the context of the potions, and I felt it was executed in a very believable way.
And of course, Ida is fabulous...I love that she uses her parasol as a weapon! It's nice that, with a hero who has slightly calmer interests, we have a heroine who can readily defend herself...although the that's not to say Nick doesn't lack strength where it counts, but rather that they complement each other very well.
I enjoyed this one, and found it just as fun and charming as How to Seduce a Spy. This is marketed as something a loosely related prequel to that book, but you are welcome to read it any order you like. But I definitely recommend this one in particular for a fun, , short, fast read that will let you try out a new author (should you choose to start here), and the series so far in general to fans of magic-infused historical romance.
December 30, 2024
Nick & Ida are both after answers, and end up on a train together. Serum is what they're chasing, which makes up all the potions that the ton can't get enough of. Through mishaps and danger, they stick together, and as their secrets unfurl, so does a crackling chemistry.
Wow, what a ride! I loved these characters. Nick was grumpy and quick-witted, and full of passion. Ida was smart and brave, and determined as no other. I loved their chemistry and banter. The plot moved along nicely, keeping me on the edge of my seat at times. It was also funny, garnering a chuckle or two from me along the way. The romance was swoon worthy.
My first read from this author, will definitely start on her backlist now.
Wow, what a ride! I loved these characters. Nick was grumpy and quick-witted, and full of passion. Ida was smart and brave, and determined as no other. I loved their chemistry and banter. The plot moved along nicely, keeping me on the edge of my seat at times. It was also funny, garnering a chuckle or two from me along the way. The romance was swoon worthy.
My first read from this author, will definitely start on her backlist now.
October 12, 2019
Catherine Stein has done it again.
With witty dialogue, engaging characters, and an intriguing plot, Stein drew me into her world.
A little magic, a little spice, and a Victorian setting are mixed together in this book. The result? A fast paced romance story that like a breath of fresh air.
Nick and Ida's adventure is one you definitely don't want to miss.
Catherine Stein is now on my must-read author list.
5 full stars!
With witty dialogue, engaging characters, and an intriguing plot, Stein drew me into her world.
A little magic, a little spice, and a Victorian setting are mixed together in this book. The result? A fast paced romance story that like a breath of fresh air.
Nick and Ida's adventure is one you definitely don't want to miss.
Catherine Stein is now on my must-read author list.
5 full stars!
May 11, 2020
He does not want potions, he needs them so he is a little worried when he is sent to India but they seems to be getting weaker. Her brother has pulled out of their plans to.make perfume so she has to travel to get the items she needs. They meet in the train and they will have to be careful as things may get dangerous for them. What is going to happen? Can they be a team? See how they get on
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2023
This was just what I needed to distract myself from a severe headache! A fun romance set in an alternate Victorian English Empire with intrigue, travel, mistaken identities, conflict, and the happy ending! Nick and Ida meet on a train and their romance blossoms over the course of their travels. Both are strong characters who follow their own guiding stars and luckily their paths have crossed! Will be taking a look at other volumes in this series.
July 28, 2023
Fun Gaslamp Fantasy Romance
The Earl on the Train is a fun gaslamp romance novella. A prequel to the Potions and Passions series, it helps set up the events in “How to Seduce a Spy” as well as developing its own romance. Magic potions are at the heart of this alternate Victorian historical. It’s enjoyable and sexy with good world building. I read this after I read How to Seduce a Spy, but it works as the first book in the series too.
The Earl on the Train is a fun gaslamp romance novella. A prequel to the Potions and Passions series, it helps set up the events in “How to Seduce a Spy” as well as developing its own romance. Magic potions are at the heart of this alternate Victorian historical. It’s enjoyable and sexy with good world building. I read this after I read How to Seduce a Spy, but it works as the first book in the series too.
April 28, 2025
I do love gaslamp romance. Steam rating: 2. Romance rating: 5. Story and adventure: 5.
I loved Ida and Nick, and their unorthodox personalities. Often it's just the woman that is "unusual" in their intelligence and adventurous ways. But also having Nick be anti violence and interested in interior design was a refreshing change. I liked how the steampunk twist on this world was potions and serums. I'll have to read more of this series.
I loved Ida and Nick, and their unorthodox personalities. Often it's just the woman that is "unusual" in their intelligence and adventurous ways. But also having Nick be anti violence and interested in interior design was a refreshing change. I liked how the steampunk twist on this world was potions and serums. I'll have to read more of this series.
February 16, 2022
Exciting background, characters to fall in love with, obstacles to overcome, laughing, crying, cheering, screaming, nailbiting... all packed into a short but very sweet package that left no wishes open. Thank you for this delicious story!
October 3, 2022
A bit spicy, a lot bold, some vulnerablity, a touch of mystery and an HEA. What more could you ask for? I love that these two were not your typical H/h. I especially loved how Nick learned to make Ida his partner. She is fierce, he is vulnerable and they compliment each other so well!
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September 14, 2024
entertaining
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