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Gilded #2

Deceived by Desire

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From New York Times bestselling author Marie Force comes a glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, Rhode Island. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches . . .

Wealthy American industrialist Aubrey Nelson has invited the Duke and Duchess of Westbrook to visit his family's Newport seaside "cottage" for the summer. With his parents' departure from New York delayed, Aubrey's mother sends him ahead to oversee preparations for their guests. But when he arrives, he's surprised to find the house and staff in disarray . . .

With much to do and little time, Aubrey comes to rely on the housekeeper, a lovely young Irish woman named Maeve Brown. And when he also finds himself confiding in Maeve about more personal matters, he tells himself it's merely their close proximity that draws him to the compassionate, hard-working beauty. Yet when he suspects Maeve is in danger, Aubrey realizes his feelings for her have grown much deeper than they should have. For what will his mother, who dreams of a society match for her son, have to say when she arrives to discover he's lost his heart to a girl of the working class?

302 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published August 27, 2019

721 people are currently reading
1849 people want to read

About the author

Marie Force

211 books8,457 followers
Marie Force is the New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and erotic romance. Her series include Gansett Island, Fatal, Treading Water, Butler Vermont and Quantum.

Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.

Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.

Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at marie@marieforce.com.

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5 stars
334 (48%)
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220 (31%)
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104 (15%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
Profile Image for Anne OK.
4,116 reviews555 followers
January 3, 2019
It will be awhile before Force fans and readers see this one, but it will definitely be worth the wait. The setting in beautiful Newport, Rhode Island plays its own special part, along with two very charming, endearing and fascinating lead characters who share immediate chemistry that ignites a wonderful love story. There's an added touch of mystery and suspense added for additional entertainment. I simply loved this one from start to finish.

Be sure and catch the first book in the Gilded series -- Duchess by Deception -- that will introduce you to the cast of characters featured in this series that will be released on January 29, 2019.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
August 26, 2019
Marie Force’s Gilded series does not break any new ground in the historical romance subgenre, other than being a little more sexually explicit than the historicals I found on my mom’s bookshelf back in the day, but I am really enjoying these characters and their stories. Even though I knew the direction the story would go, I was still completely invested in these characters and what the next page would bring. The backdrop of the social season in Newport, RI, and those lovely beach “cottages” of the wealthy social elites around the turn of the 20th century are interesting to me, and Ms. Force’s descriptions made it easy to picture it all so clearly. I was charmed by Aubrey, Maeve, and their ragtag staff, and I loved catching up with Derek, Catherine, Simon, Madeleine, and Justin. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Justin in book 3.

Most, if not all Marie Force fans know she is from Rhode Island. Many of her books are set in and around her hometown, including this one. I don’t often read the acknowledgments so I’m not sure why I did with this book, but I’m so happy I did! This story is a loving homage to her family and their long history in Newport. I thought it was a lovely and touching tribute. If you don’t often read the acknowledgments, make an exception in this case. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Sakshi *the bookish romantic*.
41 reviews38 followers
August 25, 2019
Things started well in the book with Aubrey, the owner of the mansion meeting Maeve, the housekeeper. I felt giddy hoping it to be the start of a spicy romance. And then everything started going downhill from there.

Maeve Brown was the Irish housekeeper of the palatial house of the Nelsons. The start of the book hinted that Maeve had an aura of independence and strong headedness but nothing of the sort was reflected in later parts of the book. She was more like a meek puppy than a woman who faced violence head-on.

Aubrey Nelson met Maeve for the first time and instantly saw her through rose colored glasses. Aubrey knew the housekeeper was off limits to him but he couldn’t resist his attraction towards her. Maeve also yearned for him but she was on her toes not to fall for him owing to her position as the housekeeper and on account of being an Irish. Then came the fortunate moment of Maeve’s past troubles that led to Aubrey’s proposing a marriage to protect Maeve. Despite being through a painful past and violent history, Maeve still agreed to marry him in an instant.

Enter Aubrey’s mother, the dragon lady, who had an iron will on everyone and everything around her. She was rather exacting with her demands and obviously didn’t approve of this marriage. Aubrey, however, did not care about the norms of the polite society. Story moved in a way that had me anticipating some exciting events. However, the climax here wasn’t climactic enough. It came and went like a breeze.

There were few instances where Aubrey and Maeve started to build a sort of friendship but the author jumped too quickly to the marriage of the two. The coffee, here, was brewed in a haste and the fun was over before I could enjoy any moments of tingles and flutters between the two. I would have loved if the author had explored their relationship as it could have given some depth to their bond.

Too many pages were spent on Maeve’s fear of rejection from the Aubrey’s mother and aristocratic society and Aubrey’s steady support. Aubrey was a sweet and caring husband, sometimes painfully so. He rather crossed the territory of charming and went right into the land of cheesy-ville. Gooey romance had me skimming through so many parts of the book.

It was just an okay read and wasn't as entertaining a read as I had expected it to be. This could be due to my love affair with the Fatal series by Marie Force. I absolutely loved that one. None of the characters in the book here were exceptionally likable. The story could have played out well if the author had invested a little time in constructing some gripping situations. There wasn't much to the book and I didn't feel like I was reading anything new or refreshing. I forgot about the book, the characters and the story the moment I was done reading it.

What could have been an engrossing book led by a promising plot fell flat by too sweet leads, sappy dialogues, unbaked drama and a quick happy ending.
Profile Image for Robin Loves Reading.
2,901 reviews470 followers
August 18, 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Stars

Aubrey Nelson is a wealthy man - new money, as it were - and has very good friends that include the Duke and Duchess of Westbrook. Aubrey has invited them, as well as other dear friends to summer at his mother's estate.

As Aubrey's father is ill, he arrives ahead of his parents. This turns out to be a very good thing. His mother is a tyrant to the fullest extent and had upset her household staff when she was last there that they left the house to ruin. When Aubrey steps into the home, he only sees one person, the housekeeper. He is inexplicably drawn to her. She is a young Irish woman named Maeve Brown.

Before she realizes that Aubrey is related to the owner, they quickly share confidences about the state of the house. They develop an immediate bond. However, it is shattered almost immediately once she discovers who he is. Aubrey wants to forget rules and convention and is determined to pursue Maeve. Of course, she wants nothing more to do with him.

However, Aubrey learns that Maeve is in danger, and offers her his protection - by marriage. He can protect her with his name and his wealth. Maeve is more than reluctant to accept his offer, but she cannot deny that he is indeed everything her heart desires.

This was quite an enjoyable book. It had more than enough to offer. The romance felt real, the dynamic between Aubrey and his mother, and also the rules of society was handled well, and the mystery surrounding the reason for Maeve being in danger was a good part of the story.

Although Deceived by Desire is the second book in a series, it will do quite well as a standalone. Quite naturally, readers who read the first book, Duchess by Deception, will be familiar with some of the characters.

Many thanks to Zebra and to Inkslinger PR for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,080 reviews131 followers
August 26, 2019
The early 20th century was a fascinating time in history with so many advancements taking place. But the class differences were still there and Marie Force takes us into the romance that happens between a wealthy American and the housekeeper of his family's seaside cottage. Set at the shore in Newport, the hero Aubrey goes ahead to the cottage to make sure everything is ready for so the important guest soon to arrive,
He finds much more than a house in upheavel though.. The lovely Irish housekeeper, Maeve Brown. They form a friendship and there is a great spark between them that starts them on a journey. Romance, suspense, a little mystery and a dragon of mother that is best to stay away from if possible!
Once I started I could not put is down and I look forward to the next in this wonderful series!
Profile Image for Nicole.
1,256 reviews100 followers
February 14, 2021
When wealthy American Aubrey Nelson arrives at his family's lavish Rhode Island summer home just three weeks before his illustrious guests, and friends, the Duke and Duchess of Westbrook, he's shocked to find the house in complete disarray. When he finds only the rather alluring new housekeeper in residence, he is instantly attracted and vows to spend as much time with her as possible. There's an enormous amount of work to be done and he's happy to spend more time with Maeve Brown, and Aubrey continues to become even more enthralled. When danger from her past catches up to her, Aubrey realizes he has developed deeper feelings than he should and steps up to help her. But with his mother angry and vengeful Maeve's troubles may not end so simply.

This book was well-written and I couldn't put it down, and yet it was rather disappointing for me. There was such good build up and blatant foreshadowing for a dramatic climax that would up falling flat and anticlimactic for me. There was so much build up and potential here and it just didn't deliver. Don't get me wrong, the overall happily ever after itself was satisfying, but the path there was just too tedious and then too abrupt. Some sections felt repetitive to me, and while I adore romance (obviously), and Aubrey was endearingly sweet, his professions of adoration and devotion were a bit much, a bit fast, and a bit frequent to be quite believable. Plus if I had to read any more references to "the Irish housekeeper" I was ready to just scream.

All that said, I still think this series has potential and will keep trying this author as she moves into historical romance.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Profile Image for Kelsie Maxwell.
430 reviews86 followers
September 5, 2019
Deceived by Desire by Marie Force is book two in her Gilded historical romance series.

Aubrey Nelson arrives at his family home in Newport, Rhode Island to prepare for a visit from his friends the Duke and Duchess of Westwood. He encounters the new Irish housekeeper, Maeve Brown, and is immediately enamored. He promises to protect her but is he aware of all that he may have to protect her from?

Marie Force continues her success in the historical romance genre. I enjoyed Deceived by Desire and give it 4 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to all readers of historical romance. Those who dislike descriptive sex scenes will want to give this one a pass.

My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Profile Image for Elodie’s Reading Corner.
2,554 reviews153 followers
July 20, 2019
I did not knew Mrs Marie Force was publishing Historical romance, she was a contemporary romance author to me. Why I have not yet read one of her work.
I do not know if it is me or the time period sets for this book, but I find it so much more modern than the historical romances have read so far.
The writing style is smooth and the plot flows without any bump.
It was Cinderella with a bit of suspense.
Once I was over this change of writing style, I surely enjoyed Maeve and Aubrey’s story.
It was lust then love at first sight on Aubrey’s part, once he settled his eyes on Maeve, his future was sealed, he was lost and would do anything to protect her, even going against his own family. His only challenge is to make her fall in love with him and not doubting the sentiments she returns. He is a dotting husband and will go to any length to be sure she is accepted and happy.
Maeve after the predicament she found herself in, is weary of men, especially the charming sort, so far they proved to not be trustworthy, even worse. Why she is facing dire circumstances and must do with life still has to offer to her.
And Aubrey is everything she knows she must avoid, kind, attractive, from a well-regarded family and her employer. But whatever she tries to deter him seems to not work. He is determined and when one secret is revealed, he jumps on the occasion to get what he desires most, honor bond to protect her.
I have not read the previous book, but I never felt lost as each of the side characters had its history explained. It was lovely to see how a deep friendship can become more important and stronger than a blood bond. Maeve and Aubrey outside their first days together have strong supporters who won’t be afraid by the task asked to them.
A sensual tale of finding love and friendship despite rank and wealth.
4.5 stars

I was granted an advance copy by Netgalley and the publisher Kensington Books, I purchased my own copy too. It is my true and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Elodie’s Reading Corner.
2,554 reviews153 followers
August 21, 2019
I did not knew Mrs Marie Force was publishing Historical romance, she was a contemporary romance author to me. Why I have not yet read one of her work.
I do not know if it is me or the time period sets for this book, but I find it so much more modern than the historical romances have read so far.
The writing style is smooth and the plot flows without any bump.
It was Cinderella with a bit of suspense.
Once I was over this change of writing style, I surely enjoyed Maeve and Aubrey’s story.
It was lust then love at first sight on Aubrey’s part, once he settled his eyes on Maeve, his future was sealed, he was lost and would do anything to protect her, even going against his own family. His only challenge is to make her fall in love with him and not doubting the sentiments she returns. He is a dotting husband and will go to any length to be sure she is accepted and happy.
Maeve after the predicament she found herself in, is weary of men, especially the charming sort, so far they proved to not be trustworthy, even worse. Why she is facing dire circumstances and must do with life still has to offer to her.
And Aubrey is everything she knows she must avoid, kind, attractive, from a well-regarded family and her employer. But whatever she tries to deter him seems to not work. He is determined and when one secret is revealed, he jumps on the occasion to get what he desires most, honor bond to protect her.
I have not read the previous book, but I never felt lost as each of the side characters had its history explained. It was lovely to see how a deep friendship can become more important and stronger than a blood bond. Maeve and Aubrey outside their first days together have strong supporters who won’t be afraid by the task asked to them.
A sensual tale of finding love and friendship despite rank and wealth.
4.5 stars

I was granted an advance copy by Netgalley and the publisher Kensington Books, I purchased my own copy too. It is my true and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Laura.
593 reviews34 followers
September 28, 2019
DNF at 20%. I didn't much like the first one in this series, and I liked this one even less. I do like her Green Mountain/Butler Vermont books, so if you want to try a Marie Force, read one of those. 1.5 stars.
3,292 reviews39 followers
July 23, 2019
Deceived by Desire by Marie Force is the second in her Gilded series, following Duchess by Deception. Aubrey Nelson has arrived at his parents' "cottage" in Newport to prepare for the arrival of his family and his summer guests. He is appalled to discover that the staff from the previous summer was so disgruntled with their treatment that instead of closing up the house, they had left open all the windows and had purposely left food in some rooms for maximum damage. He discovered that a lone woman, Maeve Brown was attempting to bring it all under control. An she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. He misrepresented himself as the new butler so he could stay at her side and help to clean. Of course, that ruse was discovered in short order when the new butler arrived and introduced himself. Things get more complicated from there.

Force writes a lovely romance novel. Her plots are different that most of these type books and kind of throw punches at "society," and its ridiculous mores. Her loves scenes are just detailed enough to make them titillating but full of love at the same time. Her characters are warm and loving, by and large. Her villains are well drawn and the reader can feel the evil. Many of the peripheral characters are just that: flat but necessary to the story. Force compiles an entertaining novel, just right for an afternoon poolside. I recommend it.

I received a free ARC of Deceived by Desire. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #deceivedbydesire
Profile Image for Kathy Dunn.
1,314 reviews24 followers
Want to read
August 16, 2019
As one who began reading romance in my teens, I read only regency stories. That changed and I have now found myself back to reading some - Marie Force’s Gilded series to be exact. I have always enjoyed Marie’s writing style and she now has this series (set in the early 1900’s) it one not to be missed.
The early 1900’s was an exciting time. The beginning of the Industrial Age evolving into changes for men and women. This book envelopes those changes. It is the story of Irish girl Maeve Brown and her employer Aubrey Nelson. As the housekeeper for his Newport home, Aubrey falls head over heels in love with Maeve. When danger follows Maeve from Ireland to Newport, Aburey does everything he can to keep her safe. Yet just how safe is she even in his home.
Very enjoyable book with mystery, surprises, and a good old fashioned love story awaits you!
Profile Image for Bobbie.
1,205 reviews10 followers
August 19, 2019
Another wonderful story by Marie Force. I always look forward to reading her books, and although today I read mostly contemporary romances, I started reading romance when historical romance was about all there was. It was so interesting to read this historical romance and the fact it actually took place in the early 20th century made it even more fun. I had read the previous book, but if you have not, don’t be afraid you won’t know what is going on. One of my favorite reasons for reading Ms. Force’s books is that she develops each and every story to standalone. This particular book was no exception. Maeve and Derek were a wonderful couple and I rooted for them the entire book. I loved reading the history of this time as expertly weaved into the story. I hope there will be another!
Profile Image for Heather.
1,433 reviews26 followers
August 7, 2019
This second historical romance by Marie Force is another winner and I truly hope we will see more of these delightful characters in the future. Set the summer after Duchess By Deception, this is the story of Aubrey Nelson and his rather inappropriate choice of a bride. Not only is Maeve the family housekeeper, she's Irish and she's accused of murdering her first husband! Now if that isn't cause for scandal with Newport Society, what is?
Once again Marie Force has written a very engaging romance that I found difficult to put down. Even though the characters from the first book do appear in this book, the book can be read as a stand alone novel. However, I highly recommend reading both books for maximum enjoyment.
Profile Image for Marla Dudak.
1,753 reviews12 followers
September 15, 2019
Not very good. The lord or the manor falls for the Irish housekeeper in 1903 Newport.
59 reviews
September 11, 2019
I loved this historical fiction piece. Especially because I’m from Rhode Island. A very interesting plot. Does Aubrey marry the woman he loves knowing his snob of a mother would disapprove? She doesn’t want her son with a maid.
Profile Image for Kim.
42 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2019
Good, Good, Good!

Every day life is surrounded by deceit and deception if you allow it to be. This story draws love into the center of forbidden "royalty rules". Glad to see hardworking common folk find love. If only it was possible in real life. Way to go Marie.
Profile Image for Glenda I Huff.
73 reviews
September 10, 2019
Captivating

I was completely enthralled with this story. I knew mom was up to something.I kept thinking thru the story that she had something deceitful going on.
Profile Image for Nina Spiritoflife.
27 reviews
September 5, 2019
So awesome!

This story was as good as the first one. I absolutely loved it!!! The fact that there is history and the way they lived back in the dsy. Oh, and u can't forget the drama!!!
68 reviews
September 6, 2019
Perfect!

This book is so good! I love Aubrey and Maeves story. It's crazy how arrogant and wicked his mother was, glad she got her due!
1 review
September 1, 2019
A delightful journey through the Gilded Age

I enjoyed book 2 in the Gilded series even better than book 1and that is saying a lot. The characters and the descriptions of the of the customs and culture or the era plus the descriptions of the properties and Newport itself made me feel like I was living during that time. Before this series I was not a fan of this genre but read the first one because Marie Force wrote it. I was not disappointed. It is a winner!
15 reviews
September 2, 2019
Outstanding as always. This is the 2nd book in Marie’s historical series and this book didn’t disappoint expectations. All of Marie’s faithful readers know the caliber of writing we are going to get with every new release and this book was everything we love. I highly recommend this book as well as the others written by Marie.
Profile Image for Patricia.
16 reviews
September 3, 2019
One of top 5 favorites authors. She keeps outdoing herself. Thank you Marie for your Books.
Profile Image for Erin.
104 reviews
Want to read
September 1, 2019
Marie Force was an unexpected and lucky find for me years ago and I have read almost everything she has written. When she entered the historical romance world with her first book in this series, I was skeptical because she writes contemporary romances that are very character driven and addicting. I am so glad gave this series a chance and I was please that book #2 held up!
137 reviews3 followers
September 2, 2019
Just a delightful book.

What a fun sweet story, made even more delightful after having been to some of the glorious homes in Newport. I loved the characters, they were lovely, interesting, and fun. I enjoyed reading this book very much.
Profile Image for Shelly Carter.
223 reviews
September 1, 2019
Another Amazing book

As always this book was fabulous. All the details about the Newport season and the fame and foolery of the time shines in this beautiful book. The characters and storyline was excellent. It made me stop everything and just read.
914 reviews
August 31, 2019
So good and fun to read the weekend I’m officiating a wedding in Newport. Made the location visualizations very real. I especially like the Author’s Notes at the end, with character name origins and family history. Ready for Justin’s story!!
294 reviews1 follower
August 31, 2019
Entertaining enjoyable story of passion and intrigue. Newport RI. in the gilded age with historical insights is magical. The love story of Maeve and Aubrey is one to remember. Hope there will be more in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews

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