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Sins and Sensibilities #2
The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton
Beneath Lily Layton’s sweet and charming exterior beats the heart of a vixen—one with shocking and scandalous secrets and desires. But as a genteel lady, she confines her forbidden fantasies, like those about her employer’s devastatingly handsome son, to her diary…until she loses it.
Oliver Carlyle, Marquess of Ambrose, has finally found the perfect wife, a woman who will not hide from his dark, carnal cravings. He just needs to figure out who she is. When he has a secret rendezvous with a mysterious stranger, suddenly he starts to believe she might be the author of the diary.
He’s determined to find out who his mystery woman is…
His biggest fear—and deepest fantasy—is she may be the one woman he cannot have.
Oliver Carlyle, Marquess of Ambrose, has finally found the perfect wife, a woman who will not hide from his dark, carnal cravings. He just needs to figure out who she is. When he has a secret rendezvous with a mysterious stranger, suddenly he starts to believe she might be the author of the diary.
He’s determined to find out who his mystery woman is…
His biggest fear—and deepest fantasy—is she may be the one woman he cannot have.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2019
309 people are currently reading
1268 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Reid
92 books3,422 followersI am an unapologetic romance lover. I read it. I write it. Enough said. Well..I also have a warrior way "Never give up on my dreams." I spend a copious amount of time drooling over Rick Grimes from Walking Dead, watching Japanese anime and playing video games with my love, Dusean.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 306 reviews
January 26, 2019
4 1/2 fogged-up-my-kindle stars!.
First of all, it is worth noting that Stacey Reid is one of my favorite HR authors because she always delivers an interesting plot line with some serious smut (my two requirements for optimal enjoyment of romance novels). I have read all of her books, and I was thrilled to have been approved to read this one in advance of its release! I DEVOURED it in a single sitting because I couldn't tear myself away!
Mrs. Lily Layton is a twice widowed 25 year old woman who was born and raised in a nearby village under the humble roof of her commoner family that she adores, and she has been serving as the companion for the Marchioness of Ambrose in the manor after her most recent husband's passing. Lily has been pretty unlucky in love --- her first husband was a childhood friend who went off to war soon after they wed and never came back; her second husband was the town preacher who believed sex to be a sin and often accused her of being a deviant and temptress, so he rarely consummated the union and required her to stifle her "unnatural urges." Her bad luck continues when she leaves her very detailed and explicit diary on a bench after her morning walk to be found by none other than the Marquess of Ambrose (and son of the woman she is a paid companion for) who begins to read the steamy confessions of an unknown woman and is intrigued. In reading the confessions of what this mystery woman wants in the bedroom (and sometimes out of it), Oliver sees his own name mentioned as the object of her passionate self-love sessions, and he becomes very interested in learning this woman's identity. The only clues he has are that she is a widow, and she is relatively familiar with the manor, so she must have been there before at least a few times. Oliver has decided to "settle down," so his mother has invited a number of eligible ladies, of which a handful are widows; he believes he will be able to narrow it down and sets off to investigate. One of his first steps is to haunt the secret passages in his home that the diary's author mentions as where she has spied some very passionate rendezvous via the peep holes... and he "bumps" into her right away. Sparks fly (all over the place), but she refuses to reveal her identity (she doesn't wish to know his either). Meanwhile, Lily longs to be the object of Oliver's affections but knows it can never be. At the same time, during his waking hours, Oliver finds himself drawn more and more to his mother's companion, which he is well aware would not be a suitable Marchioness. His dreams are haunted by both his mystery woman and Mrs. Lily Layton.... what's a Marquess to do?
What I liked:
--- The main characters were lots of fun and had a significant amount of chemistry (not just sexual chemistry --- they were a good match in other aspects as well)
--- Oh the smutty goodness! Hot, hot, hot, hot, hot! Erotica galore!
--- The plot was one that totally held my interest throughout
What I didn't like as much:
--- Reality bites, and while I love a beautiful HEA, it was pretty improbable (but I rolled with it bc oh the hotness!)
Plot --- 4.5/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Characters --- 4/5
Steam Level --- 5/5
Language --- some
Violence --- nothing stands out
POV --- 3rd
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
First of all, it is worth noting that Stacey Reid is one of my favorite HR authors because she always delivers an interesting plot line with some serious smut (my two requirements for optimal enjoyment of romance novels). I have read all of her books, and I was thrilled to have been approved to read this one in advance of its release! I DEVOURED it in a single sitting because I couldn't tear myself away!
Mrs. Lily Layton is a twice widowed 25 year old woman who was born and raised in a nearby village under the humble roof of her commoner family that she adores, and she has been serving as the companion for the Marchioness of Ambrose in the manor after her most recent husband's passing. Lily has been pretty unlucky in love --- her first husband was a childhood friend who went off to war soon after they wed and never came back; her second husband was the town preacher who believed sex to be a sin and often accused her of being a deviant and temptress, so he rarely consummated the union and required her to stifle her "unnatural urges." Her bad luck continues when she leaves her very detailed and explicit diary on a bench after her morning walk to be found by none other than the Marquess of Ambrose (and son of the woman she is a paid companion for) who begins to read the steamy confessions of an unknown woman and is intrigued. In reading the confessions of what this mystery woman wants in the bedroom (and sometimes out of it), Oliver sees his own name mentioned as the object of her passionate self-love sessions, and he becomes very interested in learning this woman's identity. The only clues he has are that she is a widow, and she is relatively familiar with the manor, so she must have been there before at least a few times. Oliver has decided to "settle down," so his mother has invited a number of eligible ladies, of which a handful are widows; he believes he will be able to narrow it down and sets off to investigate. One of his first steps is to haunt the secret passages in his home that the diary's author mentions as where she has spied some very passionate rendezvous via the peep holes... and he "bumps" into her right away. Sparks fly (all over the place), but she refuses to reveal her identity (she doesn't wish to know his either). Meanwhile, Lily longs to be the object of Oliver's affections but knows it can never be. At the same time, during his waking hours, Oliver finds himself drawn more and more to his mother's companion, which he is well aware would not be a suitable Marchioness. His dreams are haunted by both his mystery woman and Mrs. Lily Layton.... what's a Marquess to do?
What I liked:
--- The main characters were lots of fun and had a significant amount of chemistry (not just sexual chemistry --- they were a good match in other aspects as well)
--- Oh the smutty goodness! Hot, hot, hot, hot, hot! Erotica galore!
--- The plot was one that totally held my interest throughout
What I didn't like as much:
--- Reality bites, and while I love a beautiful HEA, it was pretty improbable (but I rolled with it bc oh the hotness!)
Plot --- 4.5/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Characters --- 4/5
Steam Level --- 5/5
Language --- some
Violence --- nothing stands out
POV --- 3rd
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 5, 2022
Damn! Scorching hot with a profound love. I love this book! 🔥
If you are looking for a fiery, erotic romance loaded with the taboo of the times, this is it! Definitely a multiple re-read!
If you are looking for a fiery, erotic romance loaded with the taboo of the times, this is it! Definitely a multiple re-read!
May 31, 2021
*** 4.5 stars ***
This is a very beautiful short story of a Marquess who falls in love with a lady who has some scandalous sexual desires. He don't know who she is but he learnt everything from her lost diary. He is partly in love with her when he met her for the first time and they made scandalous love in a forbidden room. The thing is they don't want their identities to be revealed so they did all in the dark.... that was really interesting!!!
I loved the way they both anticipated the emotions for each other.
On the other hand there is this Mrs. Lily Layton who is widowed for the second time and is not looking for a husband. But she fantasize a lot about The Marquess who is also her employer.
The story is the connection between the dairy and the protagonists. How they found love in each other. Ho they forget about the society to relish their feelings.
Stacy has done an amazing job😘
This is a very beautiful short story of a Marquess who falls in love with a lady who has some scandalous sexual desires. He don't know who she is but he learnt everything from her lost diary. He is partly in love with her when he met her for the first time and they made scandalous love in a forbidden room. The thing is they don't want their identities to be revealed so they did all in the dark.... that was really interesting!!!
I loved the way they both anticipated the emotions for each other.
On the other hand there is this Mrs. Lily Layton who is widowed for the second time and is not looking for a husband. But she fantasize a lot about The Marquess who is also her employer.
The story is the connection between the dairy and the protagonists. How they found love in each other. Ho they forget about the society to relish their feelings.
Stacy has done an amazing job😘
October 19, 2019
Audio...5 stars
Story....4 stars
Story....4 stars
October 8, 2025
4 maybe 4.5 super sweet erotica in a HR setting ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is such a feel good read. ❤️Never have I ever, experienced so many erotic scenes in a hr romance, and it worked so well for me. 😊
Oliver finds a journal in his mother’s estate, in this journal are the sexual and emotional dreams of an unknown widow. Oliver who is quite into kink, goes on a journey to find her. The premise is fun, sweet and super romantic. Their love is so intense and it made me pay attention.
This story is really about embracing your sexuality without fear of repercussions and judgement, more than it’s about if it’s realistic in an HR setting. It’s probably not, but I do hope it was for some. I thought it worked brilliantly with that setting because it gives their escapades a veil of innocence and sweetness.
I know we have had “Boobiegate” with Elisa Braden’s first book, please don’t let the eroticism of this one scare you away. This love story could take place anywhere. Society’s hold will always influence how we love, these two didn’t let it.❤️
Should you read it? Yes of course! If you listen to the audiobook don’t have it on blast in the car because 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is such a feel good read. ❤️Never have I ever, experienced so many erotic scenes in a hr romance, and it worked so well for me. 😊
Oliver finds a journal in his mother’s estate, in this journal are the sexual and emotional dreams of an unknown widow. Oliver who is quite into kink, goes on a journey to find her. The premise is fun, sweet and super romantic. Their love is so intense and it made me pay attention.
This story is really about embracing your sexuality without fear of repercussions and judgement, more than it’s about if it’s realistic in an HR setting. It’s probably not, but I do hope it was for some. I thought it worked brilliantly with that setting because it gives their escapades a veil of innocence and sweetness.
I know we have had “Boobiegate” with Elisa Braden’s first book, please don’t let the eroticism of this one scare you away. This love story could take place anywhere. Society’s hold will always influence how we love, these two didn’t let it.❤️
Should you read it? Yes of course! If you listen to the audiobook don’t have it on blast in the car because 🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 8, 2024
5⭐️s for steam
3⭐️s for overall story
This is perfect for a weekend afternoon where you want something historical but also something scorching. However, there were parts of the story that I a. didn’t care about and then b. cared a lot about.
A lot of the story is about her struggling with infertility and having a doctor pretty much confirm it, but then she gets pregnant within a yearish of her marriage. Again, totally can happen but not the best message. Then there’s Oliver dropping the bombshell that his father was forcing himself on a 14 year old and then in the next breath saying he still loves him. But the worst part is Lily being like that love is the most beautiful of all. It was just very fucked up. Obviously, you can’t control your emotions but actually fuck that this is fiction and I don’t want that bullshit. He also made her his mistress after being like “I can’t marry you” and then waffled a bit and then was like “marriage!”
So this is definitely not perfect but it is hot.
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
3⭐️s for overall story
This is perfect for a weekend afternoon where you want something historical but also something scorching. However, there were parts of the story that I a. didn’t care about and then b. cared a lot about.
A lot of the story is about her struggling with infertility and having a doctor pretty much confirm it, but then she gets pregnant within a yearish of her marriage. Again, totally can happen but not the best message. Then there’s Oliver dropping the bombshell that his father was forcing himself on a 14 year old and then in the next breath saying he still loves him. But the worst part is Lily being like that love is the most beautiful of all. It was just very fucked up. Obviously, you can’t control your emotions but actually fuck that this is fiction and I don’t want that bullshit. He also made her his mistress after being like “I can’t marry you” and then waffled a bit and then was like “marriage!”
So this is definitely not perfect but it is hot.
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
August 12, 2019
Sorry MG, not my style.
What I appreciate about historical romances, esp. the regency and Victorian eras, is the witty repartee, the simmering but veiled passions, the dry humor, the anticipation of sex being sometimes even better than the act itself.
That is NOT what you’d get with this author. Sex is what u get. Every which way to Sunday. If that floats ur boat, read SR’s books. If you want depth of characters and connection, if u want aching love and wrathful lust, look....
A lot further than these books.
I contrast the works of Elizabeth Hoyt in particular with SR. The former also writes about voyeurism, acts that are considered “depraved” for good society, etc., but the writing is more eloquent, less of a hammer to the head. There’s fine wine and fine smut, and there’s cheap beer.
I’ve never liked beer. Some reads do. You are welcome to it!
What I appreciate about historical romances, esp. the regency and Victorian eras, is the witty repartee, the simmering but veiled passions, the dry humor, the anticipation of sex being sometimes even better than the act itself.
That is NOT what you’d get with this author. Sex is what u get. Every which way to Sunday. If that floats ur boat, read SR’s books. If you want depth of characters and connection, if u want aching love and wrathful lust, look....
A lot further than these books.
I contrast the works of Elizabeth Hoyt in particular with SR. The former also writes about voyeurism, acts that are considered “depraved” for good society, etc., but the writing is more eloquent, less of a hammer to the head. There’s fine wine and fine smut, and there’s cheap beer.
I’ve never liked beer. Some reads do. You are welcome to it!
February 18, 2022
Why was this little story so lovely? It had excellent characters, and a sweet hea storyline. I wasn't expecting a historical romance to be so spicy! A strong fmc who knows what she wants in and out of the bedroom, writes it down in a diary, that is found by the very man she wants to experience a sexual awakening with? Yes please.
I really enjoyed how the author blasted through the fallacy that women were meant to be treated delicately, that women don't have the same sexual cravings men do. I needed more time with this amazingly forward thinking couple. Loved this one.
*Does have a scene or two with voyeuristic sex, (no sharing) just a heads up if that's not your bag.
I really enjoyed how the author blasted through the fallacy that women were meant to be treated delicately, that women don't have the same sexual cravings men do. I needed more time with this amazingly forward thinking couple. Loved this one.
*Does have a scene or two with voyeuristic sex, (no sharing) just a heads up if that's not your bag.
February 3, 2019
Oh, this was sooo good! I loved the whole idea of a lost diary that held scandalous secrets and desires, one that is found by a man who longs for a woman to share his own darkest yearnings. Add to that the fact that these two meet in anonymity and neither knows the other. It was quite delicious.
Lily was a wonderful heroine. She had dreams for her future and even though she was a lady’s companion she was fierce and strong. Having been widowed twice in marriages that lacked passion, she did not desire to remarry. However, that did not stop her from fantasizing about the carnal things she longed for. When the opportunity to indulge those fantasies arises she yields to the dark stranger.
Oliver is ready to marry but having watched his parent’s relationship he knows exactly what he wants in his future marchioness. He wants everything. Companionship, love and a passion with his lady that is equal to his own dark urges. When he stumbles across a lascivious diary he is intrigued and determined to find the author of such open wants. And yet, even as he seeks a bride and hungers for the diary owner, he is drawn to his mother’s companion.
I loved how this story unfolds. It was unpredictable and not at all how I thought they would discover each other. Their identities is not the conflict, although they certainly had to travel an unfavorable road to get to a place where they could be together. The true conflict is much more painful and my heart wept for Lily as she carries her burden alone. Once Oliver becomes aware of the situation I felt his own anguish. But holy heck! When he sets out to make things right with her it is one of the most beautiful statements of love I’ve ever read. Ever!
This is a fast paced book and the chemistry between this hero and heroine was scorching as was the smexy times between them. They were perfect for each other! Full disclosure and a bit of a spoiler here that I won’t hide – they partake in two scenes of voyeurism, one where they are being watched and another where they watch. I would rather the hero not want anyone to see his lady or even hear her, but that is my own personal preference. The hero does take a “mine” stance during their scene but it wasn’t enough for me.
Overall, this was a wonderful read that I will reread in the future as it had the perfect amount of wit, steam, angst, romance and one amazing epilogue.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Lily was a wonderful heroine. She had dreams for her future and even though she was a lady’s companion she was fierce and strong. Having been widowed twice in marriages that lacked passion, she did not desire to remarry. However, that did not stop her from fantasizing about the carnal things she longed for. When the opportunity to indulge those fantasies arises she yields to the dark stranger.
Oliver is ready to marry but having watched his parent’s relationship he knows exactly what he wants in his future marchioness. He wants everything. Companionship, love and a passion with his lady that is equal to his own dark urges. When he stumbles across a lascivious diary he is intrigued and determined to find the author of such open wants. And yet, even as he seeks a bride and hungers for the diary owner, he is drawn to his mother’s companion.
I loved how this story unfolds. It was unpredictable and not at all how I thought they would discover each other. Their identities is not the conflict, although they certainly had to travel an unfavorable road to get to a place where they could be together. The true conflict is much more painful and my heart wept for Lily as she carries her burden alone. Once Oliver becomes aware of the situation I felt his own anguish. But holy heck! When he sets out to make things right with her it is one of the most beautiful statements of love I’ve ever read. Ever!
This is a fast paced book and the chemistry between this hero and heroine was scorching as was the smexy times between them. They were perfect for each other! Full disclosure and a bit of a spoiler here that I won’t hide – they partake in two scenes of voyeurism, one where they are being watched and another where they watch. I would rather the hero not want anyone to see his lady or even hear her, but that is my own personal preference. The hero does take a “mine” stance during their scene but it wasn’t enough for me.
Overall, this was a wonderful read that I will reread in the future as it had the perfect amount of wit, steam, angst, romance and one amazing epilogue.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
March 29, 2022
Lily Layton is horny. Oliver Carlyle discovers her horniness via her diary and decides it's time for a visit to kinky bone town.
1. Think of this as a historical romance where the feelings to boners ratio is inverted: there's more sex than emotion, which is shoehorned into the thing like Reid knew it was needed to sell books.
2. This was a super fast read (compared to the slog I just reviewed), which is why I ended up finishing it even though it's basically erotica.
3. Also the phrase "forbidden passage" is up there with the Worst Things I've Ever Read.
4. While I did appreciate that Oliver did not care that his wife was (allegedly) barren, I was disappointed to discover that she is, of course, NO SUCH THING. It was also just another semi-serious thing tossed on the bonfire of their raging lust, along with the emotional and physical abuse of Lily's second husband.
1. Think of this as a historical romance where the feelings to boners ratio is inverted: there's more sex than emotion, which is shoehorned into the thing like Reid knew it was needed to sell books.
2. This was a super fast read (compared to the slog I just reviewed), which is why I ended up finishing it even though it's basically erotica.
3. Also the phrase "forbidden passage" is up there with the Worst Things I've Ever Read.
4. While I did appreciate that Oliver did not care that his wife was (allegedly) barren, I was disappointed to discover that she is, of course, NO SUCH THING. It was also just another semi-serious thing tossed on the bonfire of their raging lust, along with the emotional and physical abuse of Lily's second husband.
January 23, 2019
Holy hell was this book hot! This is not the most historically accurate book out there but I’m not a stickler for historical accuracy in my romance novels (except with forms of address). I enjoy the escape and being drawn into a story you can’t put down. This book delivered big time. I loved Lily and Oliver’s story and stayed up to finish it even though I had work in the morning. This book was scorching hot!!! I find the the smuttier novels have things I hate (like sex scenes with other women or cheating), so to find an HR novel with a faithful hero who seems to respect women is amazing to me! I will definitely be reading more by this author.
May 31, 2021
I am confused.
I enjoyed it but also... was this just basically historical porn? I think the plot can be described in two sentences - "Once a sexually adventurous Marquess found a dirty diary of a lady who also wanted to be sexually adventurous but lacked opportunities. Bam! Sex happens and then some angst and then HEA and then BAM twins!"
I enjoyed it but also... was this just basically historical porn? I think the plot can be described in two sentences - "Once a sexually adventurous Marquess found a dirty diary of a lady who also wanted to be sexually adventurous but lacked opportunities. Bam! Sex happens and then some angst and then HEA and then BAM twins!"
February 8, 2019
Holy cow, fan needed! First let me say that I rarely ever talk about how sensual a book is but this book - debauched, hot, yes please – all words to describe this story. Now onto what I really liked about the story. Ms. Reid’s writing is always engaging and romantic. The unconventional story drew me into the lives of Oliver and Lily. It flowed well and was a fast read. If you want a steamy read with loads of love and some tears, then try this story.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
January 27, 2019
Enjoyed this Erotic Love affair that lifted a widow to upper society. Reid tells a while not unusual tale but one that has interesting characters and a HEA. "Copy of this book was provided by Entangled via Netgalley with no requirements for a review. Comments here are my hones opinion." Other characters who would benefit from a story also.
February 7, 2021
Twice widowed Lily Layton has a sweet exterior hiding shocking desires, which she has been told are sinful, so she only releases these forbidden desires to the pages of her diary. She is devastated when she loses the diary and fears her secrets could be revealed, especially her desires specifically for the Marquess of Ambrose. Since she serves as lady's companion to his mother and though educated, she has no wealth or status of her own, she would be doubly ruined if her scandalous secrets were revealed.
Oliver Carlyle, Marquess of Ambrose, is looking to settle down and find a wife, but he wants love, friendship, loyalty, commitment, and someone who can keep up with and reciprocate his rather carnal appetites. He doesn't want to take mistresses and shame a wife as his father did to his mother. He despairs of ever finding a lady who fits the bill until he discovers a diary filled with scandalous fantasies and realizes its author could be the perfect woman for him. He just has to find out who she is.
His search leads to late night trysts with a stranger who he knows must be the authoress and leaves him determined to uncover her identity. But what if it is impossible for these two to every truly be together?
Whoa this book was steamy! Apart from having hot sex scenes, it also had a plot, which is rather rare for this sort of book. I loved that Oliver truly wanted to settle down and be monogamous with a wife and Lily's longing for freedom and refusal to settle for what society thinks is best for her. Oliver develops a friendship with and an attraction for Lily but refuses to act on it given that she is technically in his employ. I really appreciated this nobility in his character.
This was my first read from this author, though I have several of her books in my TBR pile and they will now be moving up the list. This was a very well-written book. It was scorching hot, but well done in its sensuality and the development of an actual plot and I really enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Oliver Carlyle, Marquess of Ambrose, is looking to settle down and find a wife, but he wants love, friendship, loyalty, commitment, and someone who can keep up with and reciprocate his rather carnal appetites. He doesn't want to take mistresses and shame a wife as his father did to his mother. He despairs of ever finding a lady who fits the bill until he discovers a diary filled with scandalous fantasies and realizes its author could be the perfect woman for him. He just has to find out who she is.
His search leads to late night trysts with a stranger who he knows must be the authoress and leaves him determined to uncover her identity. But what if it is impossible for these two to every truly be together?
Whoa this book was steamy! Apart from having hot sex scenes, it also had a plot, which is rather rare for this sort of book. I loved that Oliver truly wanted to settle down and be monogamous with a wife and Lily's longing for freedom and refusal to settle for what society thinks is best for her. Oliver develops a friendship with and an attraction for Lily but refuses to act on it given that she is technically in his employ. I really appreciated this nobility in his character.
This was my first read from this author, though I have several of her books in my TBR pile and they will now be moving up the list. This was a very well-written book. It was scorching hot, but well done in its sensuality and the development of an actual plot and I really enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
June 28, 2025
The steam is high with this one. 🥵🥵🥵
July 31, 2021
Really liked it!! I can’t wait to read more books by this author.
January 23, 2021
Oliver Carlyle, Marquess of Ambrose, is seeking a wife...one that won't shy away from his darkest sexual cravings. When he finds an explicit diary at a his house party, he's determined to ferret out which woman it could have written it. Young widow Lily Layton has never been sexually fulfilled. She's been married twice and now serves as companion to Oliver's mother. When a chance meeting in a secret passageway gives her the opportunity to experience real passion, she takes it.
This book is fire-engine-red-hot. It is filled with numerous, explicit sex acts. It still works incredibly well as a romance because it is a complete, well developed story. Oliver had a cheating father, so he wants to find a wife to which he can be faithful, but he is afraid of marrying someone who will be scared off by his carnal desires. Lily's second husband criticized her and made her feel ashamed of her sexuality. She pours her most erotic fantasies into her diary never believing she'd find a man who would take them even further than she imagined. But, Lily also had dreams and struggles outside of just sex, and that's what makes the reader root for their HEA.
Tropes: Secret Identity, Forced Proximity, Class Difference, Widow, Working Heroine, One Night Stand
This book is fire-engine-red-hot. It is filled with numerous, explicit sex acts. It still works incredibly well as a romance because it is a complete, well developed story. Oliver had a cheating father, so he wants to find a wife to which he can be faithful, but he is afraid of marrying someone who will be scared off by his carnal desires. Lily's second husband criticized her and made her feel ashamed of her sexuality. She pours her most erotic fantasies into her diary never believing she'd find a man who would take them even further than she imagined. But, Lily also had dreams and struggles outside of just sex, and that's what makes the reader root for their HEA.
Tropes: Secret Identity, Forced Proximity, Class Difference, Widow, Working Heroine, One Night Stand
October 27, 2020
5 steamy sexy beautiful gorgeous sensual stars!!! Gosh, my next erotic historical romance read turned out to be just as amazing as the last one. This is the first time that I’ve read a book by Stacy Reid (I didn’t know she is a Jamaican author until I saw her photo and read her profile, which is incredible ^^), and I loved every second of it!!! The way she portrayed the two main characters, especially Lily Layton and her sexual, carnal desires, was just exquisite! The love-making scenes, OMG, I was glued to my screen reading them, and also each chapter to find out what happened next in the characters’ journey to happiness.
There were also many swoon-worthy moments that I just can’t count them here. Oliver (a.k.a. Lord Ambrose) was just perfect in the way he loved and cherished Lily, and ready to fight for her (gosh I can never recover from hearing him calling her “my sweet”. I sincerely wish my future lover, if I ever have one, will call me that :D). He was also different from lots of noblemen at that time, in which he stated clearly that he would never want to dishonor his future wife by having a mistress, since he saw too painfully what the effect of infidelity had on his own mother.
Categorized as an erotic historical romance novel, “The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton” of course is not without hearts and angst, which made me love this book to death! The love story of Lily and Oliver concerns the issue of infertility - the topic that is all too familiar with us, and could also prove detrimental to the characters’ marriage, since Oliver needed an heir to carry his noble bloodline. I love how Stacy Reid handled this issue, with Lily thinking she was barren after two previous marriages producing no offspring, and the fact that her now husband - Oliver - made love to her every single day, but still no sign of pregnancy.
If I were her, of course I would come clean to my future husband that there is a possibility of me not being able to give him children. But I also understand the reaction and decision of Lily in going along with the marriage to the man she loved, not telling him what she had been fearful of, while still desperately hoping for a miracle. It’s not easy to decide what to do in her situation, especially when she was having this chance of living happily ever after with Oliver, or risking it all if she chose to tell him her real fertility state.
The last few chapters brought me to tears at how in the end, Lily had to tell her husband the truth, how she thought he would divorce her and that she was going to lose him forever, and then how Oliver came to her with one of the most beautiful declarations of love that I have ever read. If you learn the truth behind the reason why Stacy Reid chose this story of infertility for her characters, then you will know that Reid is infertile, almost like Lily. She let it all out in this post: https://www.facebook.com/stacyreid/po...
So this topic of infertility hits home for the author. And thank God she has such an amazing, understanding and loving partner who truly loves her for who she is, not because of her child-bearing ability (or lack thereof), just like Oliver loved Lily for who she was, not because she could or could not give him a child. This is why I will always cherish this novel and my time spent reading it (which was only during two days!).
There were also many swoon-worthy moments that I just can’t count them here. Oliver (a.k.a. Lord Ambrose) was just perfect in the way he loved and cherished Lily, and ready to fight for her (gosh I can never recover from hearing him calling her “my sweet”. I sincerely wish my future lover, if I ever have one, will call me that :D). He was also different from lots of noblemen at that time, in which he stated clearly that he would never want to dishonor his future wife by having a mistress, since he saw too painfully what the effect of infidelity had on his own mother.
Categorized as an erotic historical romance novel, “The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton” of course is not without hearts and angst, which made me love this book to death! The love story of Lily and Oliver concerns the issue of infertility - the topic that is all too familiar with us, and could also prove detrimental to the characters’ marriage, since Oliver needed an heir to carry his noble bloodline. I love how Stacy Reid handled this issue, with Lily thinking she was barren after two previous marriages producing no offspring, and the fact that her now husband - Oliver - made love to her every single day, but still no sign of pregnancy.
If I were her, of course I would come clean to my future husband that there is a possibility of me not being able to give him children. But I also understand the reaction and decision of Lily in going along with the marriage to the man she loved, not telling him what she had been fearful of, while still desperately hoping for a miracle. It’s not easy to decide what to do in her situation, especially when she was having this chance of living happily ever after with Oliver, or risking it all if she chose to tell him her real fertility state.
The last few chapters brought me to tears at how in the end, Lily had to tell her husband the truth, how she thought he would divorce her and that she was going to lose him forever, and then how Oliver came to her with one of the most beautiful declarations of love that I have ever read. If you learn the truth behind the reason why Stacy Reid chose this story of infertility for her characters, then you will know that Reid is infertile, almost like Lily. She let it all out in this post: https://www.facebook.com/stacyreid/po...
So this topic of infertility hits home for the author. And thank God she has such an amazing, understanding and loving partner who truly loves her for who she is, not because of her child-bearing ability (or lack thereof), just like Oliver loved Lily for who she was, not because she could or could not give him a child. This is why I will always cherish this novel and my time spent reading it (which was only during two days!).
February 8, 2025
the pages turned and turned and turned. i could not put this down.
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Lily Layton (25) | Oliver Carlyle, The Marquess of Ambrose (32)
FEATURES
∘ historical romance
∘ secret identity
∘ class difference
∘ twice widowed bride
∘ exhibitionism
REVIEW
cw: discussion of infertility
I have to tip my hat to this subgenre and, more specifically, Stacy Reid. I am really enjoying my foray into historical romance.
I tend to dislike romances where they are hiding their identity from each other because it feels a little too close to cheating, and also because I find it frustrating that they are falling in love with the other person and their alter ego yet can’t connect them.
Thankfully, Lily and Oliver were revealed to each other during and shortly after their second incognito encounter. I do find it a little unbelievable that they were able to disguise their voices to such an extent that they didn’t recognize each other, especially after they became friends as their true selves, but I will suspend my disbelief and not ruin the fun I had.
The way the two fell in love was sweet to watch. It snuck up on both of them, and while Lily had willingly accepted that Oliver could not marry her because of their stations, it was clear they loved each other wholly.
The ending was a bit rushed. Lily had dreams of becoming a clothing designer, but once she achieved it, she handed over the reigns to someone else. She still designed her clothes but didn’t make them anymore, which had felt like a significant part of her ambition. And nothing really came of Oliver’s paintings. I was disappointed Lily didn’t get a chance to see them or the fact that her likeness had been used for so long.
But finally, the cause of my major disappointment: the infertility storyline. To be fair, it didn’t come out of nowhere. It had been sprinkled in with the mentions of Lily’s previous marriages. That she hadn’t mentioned it to Oliver was annoying but forgivable (he was only sad he couldn’t give her something she desperately wanted). It was the fact that conclusion was predictable in the worst way that marred this novel. It seems that a lot of romance books tackle this subject, yet few see it through with the sensitivity it deserves. Miracles happen of course, but it feels very damaging and unrealistic to conclude it with a miracle pregnancy.
OW/OM DRAMA OM/OW — both characters are in talks of getting married to other people, but neither are interested in a specific person
CHEATING no
THIRD ACT BREAKUP sort of, not really — she goes to move out but it is solved with a sweet conversation
ENDING HEA
POV dual / third person
SPICE LEVEL 4.5 / 5
RATING 4 / 5
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Lily Layton (25) | Oliver Carlyle, The Marquess of Ambrose (32)
FEATURES
∘ historical romance
∘ secret identity
∘ class difference
∘ twice widowed bride
∘ exhibitionism
REVIEW
cw: discussion of infertility
I have to tip my hat to this subgenre and, more specifically, Stacy Reid. I am really enjoying my foray into historical romance.
I tend to dislike romances where they are hiding their identity from each other because it feels a little too close to cheating, and also because I find it frustrating that they are falling in love with the other person and their alter ego yet can’t connect them.
Thankfully, Lily and Oliver were revealed to each other during and shortly after their second incognito encounter. I do find it a little unbelievable that they were able to disguise their voices to such an extent that they didn’t recognize each other, especially after they became friends as their true selves, but I will suspend my disbelief and not ruin the fun I had.
The way the two fell in love was sweet to watch. It snuck up on both of them, and while Lily had willingly accepted that Oliver could not marry her because of their stations, it was clear they loved each other wholly.
The ending was a bit rushed. Lily had dreams of becoming a clothing designer, but once she achieved it, she handed over the reigns to someone else. She still designed her clothes but didn’t make them anymore, which had felt like a significant part of her ambition. And nothing really came of Oliver’s paintings. I was disappointed Lily didn’t get a chance to see them or the fact that her likeness had been used for so long.
But finally, the cause of my major disappointment: the infertility storyline. To be fair, it didn’t come out of nowhere. It had been sprinkled in with the mentions of Lily’s previous marriages. That she hadn’t mentioned it to Oliver was annoying but forgivable (he was only sad he couldn’t give her something she desperately wanted). It was the fact that conclusion was predictable in the worst way that marred this novel. It seems that a lot of romance books tackle this subject, yet few see it through with the sensitivity it deserves. Miracles happen of course, but it feels very damaging and unrealistic to conclude it with a miracle pregnancy.
OW/OM DRAMA OM/OW — both characters are in talks of getting married to other people, but neither are interested in a specific person
CHEATING no
THIRD ACT BREAKUP sort of, not really — she goes to move out but it is solved with a sweet conversation
ENDING HEA
POV dual / third person
SPICE LEVEL 4.5 / 5
RATING 4 / 5
December 18, 2025
4 maybe 4.5 super sweet erotica in a HR setting ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is such a feel good read. ❤️Never have I ever, experienced so many erotic scenes in a hr romance, and it worked so well for me. 😊
Oliver finds a journal in his mother’s estate, in this journal are the sexual and emotional dreams of an unknown widow. Oliver who is quite into kink, goes on a journey to find her. The premise is fun, sweet and super romantic. Their love is so intense and it made me pay attention.
This story is really about embracing your sexuality without fear of repercussions and judgement, more than it’s about if it’s realistic in an HR setting. It’s probably not, but I do hope it was for some. I thought it worked brilliantly with that setting because it gives their escapades a veil of innocence and sweetness.
I know we have had “Boobiegate” with Elisa Braden’s first book, please don’t let the eroticism of this one scare you away. This love story could take place anywhere. Society’s hold will always influence how we love, these two didn’t let it.❤️
Should you read it? Yes of course! If you listen to the audiobook don’t have it on blast in the car because 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is such a feel good read. ❤️Never have I ever, experienced so many erotic scenes in a hr romance, and it worked so well for me. 😊
Oliver finds a journal in his mother’s estate, in this journal are the sexual and emotional dreams of an unknown widow. Oliver who is quite into kink, goes on a journey to find her. The premise is fun, sweet and super romantic. Their love is so intense and it made me pay attention.
This story is really about embracing your sexuality without fear of repercussions and judgement, more than it’s about if it’s realistic in an HR setting. It’s probably not, but I do hope it was for some. I thought it worked brilliantly with that setting because it gives their escapades a veil of innocence and sweetness.
I know we have had “Boobiegate” with Elisa Braden’s first book, please don’t let the eroticism of this one scare you away. This love story could take place anywhere. Society’s hold will always influence how we love, these two didn’t let it.❤️
Should you read it? Yes of course! If you listen to the audiobook don’t have it on blast in the car because 🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 3, 2019
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Lily Layton is a widow twice over who has never known true passion. She’s been taught that what she yearns for is wrong, but that doesn’t keep her from writing down her deepest desires in her diary. It’s a perfectly safe escape…until she loses it.
Oliver Carlyle, Marquess of Ambrose, has decided it’s time to choose a wife. But when he finds a scandalous diary, he can’t get his mind off the mysterious author. How can he pick from the debutantes and titled ladies his mother has picked out for him when there’s a woman in his home who is his perfect carnal match? And why can he not keep his gaze from Lily Layton, his mother’s companion and the one woman at the party he cannot have?
The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton is a scorching hot read. Stacy Reid always delivers engaging stories and Lily and Oliver’s romance is no exception.
As individuals, Lily and Oliver are great characters. Together? They’re dynamite. Lily grabbed my heart from the first. She’s kind, generous, and an incredibly talented designer. She’s also the survivor of an abusive marriage. But no matter how her last husband tried to shame her and tear her down, Lily has an unbreakable core of strength. That doesn’t mean she’s invulnerable – far from it. I loved watching Lily grow over the course of the story and I was cheering for her as she fearlessly risked everything for what she wants most. And Oliver is just about the sexiest gentleman you could hope to read about. He’s incredibly sensual and has a code of honor Lily tempts him to break. They fit one another perfectly outside the bedroom as well. But it’d be remiss of me not to talk about how erotic a pairing they are. In their initial rendezvous, neither knows the other’s identity, but that doesn’t tamp down on the heat they generate. Their story is ferociously sexy and only gets hotter as the book goes on and Lily and Olvier become more adventurous.
Class differences aren’t the only thing standing in the way of Oliver and Lily’s perfect happily ever after. There’s a heavy emotional turn Ms. Reid doesn’t shy away from. And here I’ll include a SPOILER ALERT, so please skip the rest of this paragraph if you want to avoid spoilers.
The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton is sexy as can be, emotionally engaging, and just plain fun to read. I devoured the book in one sitting because I adored Lily and Oliver and their chemistry is phenomenal. I highly recommend The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton to anyone looking for a fast-paced historical romance with well-drawn characters, an entertaining plot, and an abundance of steam.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lily Layton is a widow twice over who has never known true passion. She’s been taught that what she yearns for is wrong, but that doesn’t keep her from writing down her deepest desires in her diary. It’s a perfectly safe escape…until she loses it.
Oliver Carlyle, Marquess of Ambrose, has decided it’s time to choose a wife. But when he finds a scandalous diary, he can’t get his mind off the mysterious author. How can he pick from the debutantes and titled ladies his mother has picked out for him when there’s a woman in his home who is his perfect carnal match? And why can he not keep his gaze from Lily Layton, his mother’s companion and the one woman at the party he cannot have?
The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton is a scorching hot read. Stacy Reid always delivers engaging stories and Lily and Oliver’s romance is no exception.
As individuals, Lily and Oliver are great characters. Together? They’re dynamite. Lily grabbed my heart from the first. She’s kind, generous, and an incredibly talented designer. She’s also the survivor of an abusive marriage. But no matter how her last husband tried to shame her and tear her down, Lily has an unbreakable core of strength. That doesn’t mean she’s invulnerable – far from it. I loved watching Lily grow over the course of the story and I was cheering for her as she fearlessly risked everything for what she wants most. And Oliver is just about the sexiest gentleman you could hope to read about. He’s incredibly sensual and has a code of honor Lily tempts him to break. They fit one another perfectly outside the bedroom as well. But it’d be remiss of me not to talk about how erotic a pairing they are. In their initial rendezvous, neither knows the other’s identity, but that doesn’t tamp down on the heat they generate. Their story is ferociously sexy and only gets hotter as the book goes on and Lily and Olvier become more adventurous.
Class differences aren’t the only thing standing in the way of Oliver and Lily’s perfect happily ever after. There’s a heavy emotional turn Ms. Reid doesn’t shy away from. And here I’ll include a SPOILER ALERT, so please skip the rest of this paragraph if you want to avoid spoilers.
The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton is sexy as can be, emotionally engaging, and just plain fun to read. I devoured the book in one sitting because I adored Lily and Oliver and their chemistry is phenomenal. I highly recommend The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton to anyone looking for a fast-paced historical romance with well-drawn characters, an entertaining plot, and an abundance of steam.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
January 28, 2019
I found this book while poking around on NetGalley. The luscious red cover initially caught my eye, as did the clench pose and the intriguing title. The blurb made this book sound too titillating for words (get it? It's about a diary!), so I was delighted to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review. And, honestly, I liked it.
So, why a 2-star rating? I'm glad you asked. The blurb for this book hinted at the diary, the class distinctions, family loyalties, and the major conflicts that would keep Oliver and Lily apart. What it didn't mention - and what I would personally like a trigger warning for - is that it also deals with infertility. QUITE A LOT.
I'm so sorry, but I read to escape my reality - including infertility - so I really, REALLY don't want to read about it in my romance. Especially in Erotica. Focus more on the naughty diary, exploring their fantasies, or building a believable emotional connection to get them to their HEA. For heaven sake, don't give them that HEA and then spend the last quarter of the book focused on the will they, won't they, of pregnancy. And, if you ARE going to go down that plot hole, please don't give us that epilogue that makes it seem like time and lots of sex really was the key to pregnancy (TWINS, no less) the whole time. Because you know what didn't work for me? TIME AND LOTS OF SEX.
Honestly, I would've 100000000% preferred if the book had stopped after the "I love you for you, not because you can give me children" conversation. Give us an epilogue where they lived a happy, full, CHILD FREE life together and died holding each other in their sleep. I would've been perfectly fine with that.
*head to desk*
So, yeah. No. As much as I liked the first 3/4 of the book, I just can't go any higher in my rating. If you're going through infertility or have struggled with pregnancy in the past, do yourself a favor and skip this book.
So, why a 2-star rating? I'm glad you asked. The blurb for this book hinted at the diary, the class distinctions, family loyalties, and the major conflicts that would keep Oliver and Lily apart. What it didn't mention - and what I would personally like a trigger warning for - is that it also deals with infertility. QUITE A LOT.
I'm so sorry, but I read to escape my reality - including infertility - so I really, REALLY don't want to read about it in my romance. Especially in Erotica. Focus more on the naughty diary, exploring their fantasies, or building a believable emotional connection to get them to their HEA. For heaven sake, don't give them that HEA and then spend the last quarter of the book focused on the will they, won't they, of pregnancy. And, if you ARE going to go down that plot hole, please don't give us that epilogue that makes it seem like time and lots of sex really was the key to pregnancy (TWINS, no less) the whole time. Because you know what didn't work for me? TIME AND LOTS OF SEX.
Honestly, I would've 100000000% preferred if the book had stopped after the "I love you for you, not because you can give me children" conversation. Give us an epilogue where they lived a happy, full, CHILD FREE life together and died holding each other in their sleep. I would've been perfectly fine with that.
*head to desk*
So, yeah. No. As much as I liked the first 3/4 of the book, I just can't go any higher in my rating. If you're going through infertility or have struggled with pregnancy in the past, do yourself a favor and skip this book.
December 14, 2021
Steamy, decadent, lovely story of an independent and sensual heroine who meets a Hero reformed rake worthy of her desires. A meeting of like minds and souls. Touching, inferno hot, and exquisitely written. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by this author as she is new to me.
I definitely recommend!
I definitely recommend!
July 1, 2021
This was the perfect blend of kinky and sweet. The Marquess of Ambrose is attending a house party put on by his mother to find him a bride. While there he stumbles across a deliciously dirty diary of a mystery woman…one who’s secret desires he would love to get the chance to become a reality.
At 25-years-old, Lily Layton is twice-widowed and now the companion of Ambrose’s mother. Lily has always had carnal cravings she’s been told were disgusting and sinful in her past, so she has taken to writing in her diary of all her wants and desires…ones she would love for Ambrose to attend to. Ambrose sets out to find this mystery writer in the secret passageways within the home that he knows the diary writer visits and they meet one night in the dark (not knowing one another’s identity) and have a delicious tryst. Ambrose is desperate to have a wife who shares the carnal tastes he loves and thinks Lily is the perfect candidate for him, but Lily isn’t sure she wants to be a wife for the 3rd time…
I really enjoyed this sweet romance between Ambrose and Lily. These two are not afraid to share all their wants and desires and I loved how this book played out. Voyeurism, exhibitionism, and even group activities-oh my! 🔥
4.5 stars/ rounded up
At 25-years-old, Lily Layton is twice-widowed and now the companion of Ambrose’s mother. Lily has always had carnal cravings she’s been told were disgusting and sinful in her past, so she has taken to writing in her diary of all her wants and desires…ones she would love for Ambrose to attend to. Ambrose sets out to find this mystery writer in the secret passageways within the home that he knows the diary writer visits and they meet one night in the dark (not knowing one another’s identity) and have a delicious tryst. Ambrose is desperate to have a wife who shares the carnal tastes he loves and thinks Lily is the perfect candidate for him, but Lily isn’t sure she wants to be a wife for the 3rd time…
I really enjoyed this sweet romance between Ambrose and Lily. These two are not afraid to share all their wants and desires and I loved how this book played out. Voyeurism, exhibitionism, and even group activities-oh my! 🔥
4.5 stars/ rounded up
September 2, 2021
4.25 hot and surprising stars
That's all she wrote.
That's all she wrote.
February 3, 2019
4.5 stars Wow! Just Wow...I was hooked by the dedication of this book and then the story just blew me away!
Oliver Carlyle, the Marquess of Ambrose is hosting a house party at his estate in hopes of finding a bride, his mother has invited several worthy candidates and he knows he should be meeting them, but he has found a diary, filled with secret, wanton desires and he burns to know who the author is. Oliver has been bored, his life while privileged is just not fulfilling. He longs for a wife and family, but he needs a wife who can be all to him, someone who can satisfy his darker sexual desires. He didn't believe he could find such a woman, until he read the diary.
Twice widowed Lily Layton is currently working as a companion to the Marchioness of Ambrose. But she has just learned that the Marchioness has decided it is time for Lily to remarry and has hired a new companion. Lily does not want to remarry, two husbands was quite enough, she longs to open a modiste shop in London, but the Marchioness is not taking no for an answer. Marriage was not kind to Lily, her last husband was a vicar and belittled Lily constantly for her "wanton" ways. Lily began writing down her secret desires in a diary, which has gone missing. Terrified that someone will find it, she frantically searches for it, which leads her to a secret passageway in the house and into the arms of a mysterious stranger.
Oliver comes across Lily in the dark passageway, they keep their identities secret, but willingly share their sexual desires, all Oliver knows is that is mystery lover is the author of the diary. They share an erotic conversation and an incredible night of passion. Lily cannot believe that she allowed a stranger to do those delightfully wicked things to her body, she is torn between shame and arousal. She vows that she will not let it happen again and will hold the memory for the rest of her life.
The Marchioness plays matchmaker and insists that Lily allow Mr. Crawford to court her. Mr. Crawford walks her to her parents in the village and saves her when a reckless rider barrels towards them - the Marquess! Oliver stops to make sure Lily is alright and decides to join them, going as far as to insist that Mr. Crawford apologize to her when he turns nasty after she rejects his proposal. When Mr. Crawford storms off, Oliver offers to accompany her. They talk and enjoy each other's company - when they return from the village and caught in a downpour, they take refuge in a hunting cabin. Oliver is attracted to Lily, but he will never engage in an affair with his employees - his father did and Oliver vowed to never repeat his father's sins - he likes Lily and offers her a fortune to help him pick a bride and even more money if she will pose for him.
Lily agrees, excited that her dream of opening a shop will become a reality - she likes Oliver and has dedicated more than one entry in her diary to her fantasies about him, but she knows that she could never be anything to him. She wonders if he could be her unknown lover, but quickly discards the idea.
Days pass and finally the night of the Marchioness' ball arrives, Lily has designed her gown and feels a bit out of place, but Oliver rescues her and asks her to dance. It is heaven and later she offers to pose for him. He is too tempted by her and sends her away, but instead of going to bed, Lily goes back to the passageway in hopes of encountering her lover. Oliver and Lily meet again and this time, he takes her to a darkened room, where they explore and pleasure each other - Oliver admits who he is and wants to know her - she is not willing to give up her anonymity - she knows his feelings about relationships with employees and doesn't want whatever it is between them to end. But the truth does come out and by then Oliver is too far gone to object - he asks her to be his mistress and she agrees - but only until he takes a wife.
They go to London and she opens her shop, things between them are as hot as ever and she knows that she loves him, but she accepts that she could never be his Marchioness. For his part Oliver has never been happier, Lily is all he has ever hoped for, not only is she a perfect match for his darker desires, but she is his friend and confidant - he has stopped looking for a wife because he cannot bear the thought of losing her. When a near death encounter makes Oliver examine his life, he chooses Lily and asks her to marry him. At first she is opposed, she has a secret that will surely make him turn away, but he sincere declaration of love and her brother in laws words of hope lead her to accept.
They are gloriously happy for months, but soon Lily's secret begins to weigh on her and she begins to pull away, sure that her secret will destroy their love. Oliver is confused by her withdrawal and wonders if he is to blame. Finally he learns the truth and is shocked and saddened - but it changes nothing in his mind, but can he convince Lily that she truly is his heart's one and only desire?
This was an incredible read, the writing was great (there were a couple of typos and incorrect names, but I assume those will be corrected by publication), I will acknowledge that it is not for everyone, if you do not like explicit love scenes or cringe at certain "offense" words, this book is not for you. But if you like your love scenes SCORCHING HOT, then you do not want to miss this book. Oliver and Lily are both wonderful characters, their stations in life do make their HEA improbable, but not impossible. While the book has several love scenes, there is much, much more to this book than just sex, the obstacles that they must overcome to be together are just as well done and moving as the love scenes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am happy to recommend it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
Oliver Carlyle, the Marquess of Ambrose is hosting a house party at his estate in hopes of finding a bride, his mother has invited several worthy candidates and he knows he should be meeting them, but he has found a diary, filled with secret, wanton desires and he burns to know who the author is. Oliver has been bored, his life while privileged is just not fulfilling. He longs for a wife and family, but he needs a wife who can be all to him, someone who can satisfy his darker sexual desires. He didn't believe he could find such a woman, until he read the diary.
Twice widowed Lily Layton is currently working as a companion to the Marchioness of Ambrose. But she has just learned that the Marchioness has decided it is time for Lily to remarry and has hired a new companion. Lily does not want to remarry, two husbands was quite enough, she longs to open a modiste shop in London, but the Marchioness is not taking no for an answer. Marriage was not kind to Lily, her last husband was a vicar and belittled Lily constantly for her "wanton" ways. Lily began writing down her secret desires in a diary, which has gone missing. Terrified that someone will find it, she frantically searches for it, which leads her to a secret passageway in the house and into the arms of a mysterious stranger.
Oliver comes across Lily in the dark passageway, they keep their identities secret, but willingly share their sexual desires, all Oliver knows is that is mystery lover is the author of the diary. They share an erotic conversation and an incredible night of passion. Lily cannot believe that she allowed a stranger to do those delightfully wicked things to her body, she is torn between shame and arousal. She vows that she will not let it happen again and will hold the memory for the rest of her life.
The Marchioness plays matchmaker and insists that Lily allow Mr. Crawford to court her. Mr. Crawford walks her to her parents in the village and saves her when a reckless rider barrels towards them - the Marquess! Oliver stops to make sure Lily is alright and decides to join them, going as far as to insist that Mr. Crawford apologize to her when he turns nasty after she rejects his proposal. When Mr. Crawford storms off, Oliver offers to accompany her. They talk and enjoy each other's company - when they return from the village and caught in a downpour, they take refuge in a hunting cabin. Oliver is attracted to Lily, but he will never engage in an affair with his employees - his father did and Oliver vowed to never repeat his father's sins - he likes Lily and offers her a fortune to help him pick a bride and even more money if she will pose for him.
Lily agrees, excited that her dream of opening a shop will become a reality - she likes Oliver and has dedicated more than one entry in her diary to her fantasies about him, but she knows that she could never be anything to him. She wonders if he could be her unknown lover, but quickly discards the idea.
Days pass and finally the night of the Marchioness' ball arrives, Lily has designed her gown and feels a bit out of place, but Oliver rescues her and asks her to dance. It is heaven and later she offers to pose for him. He is too tempted by her and sends her away, but instead of going to bed, Lily goes back to the passageway in hopes of encountering her lover. Oliver and Lily meet again and this time, he takes her to a darkened room, where they explore and pleasure each other - Oliver admits who he is and wants to know her - she is not willing to give up her anonymity - she knows his feelings about relationships with employees and doesn't want whatever it is between them to end. But the truth does come out and by then Oliver is too far gone to object - he asks her to be his mistress and she agrees - but only until he takes a wife.
They go to London and she opens her shop, things between them are as hot as ever and she knows that she loves him, but she accepts that she could never be his Marchioness. For his part Oliver has never been happier, Lily is all he has ever hoped for, not only is she a perfect match for his darker desires, but she is his friend and confidant - he has stopped looking for a wife because he cannot bear the thought of losing her. When a near death encounter makes Oliver examine his life, he chooses Lily and asks her to marry him. At first she is opposed, she has a secret that will surely make him turn away, but he sincere declaration of love and her brother in laws words of hope lead her to accept.
They are gloriously happy for months, but soon Lily's secret begins to weigh on her and she begins to pull away, sure that her secret will destroy their love. Oliver is confused by her withdrawal and wonders if he is to blame. Finally he learns the truth and is shocked and saddened - but it changes nothing in his mind, but can he convince Lily that she truly is his heart's one and only desire?
This was an incredible read, the writing was great (there were a couple of typos and incorrect names, but I assume those will be corrected by publication), I will acknowledge that it is not for everyone, if you do not like explicit love scenes or cringe at certain "offense" words, this book is not for you. But if you like your love scenes SCORCHING HOT, then you do not want to miss this book. Oliver and Lily are both wonderful characters, their stations in life do make their HEA improbable, but not impossible. While the book has several love scenes, there is much, much more to this book than just sex, the obstacles that they must overcome to be together are just as well done and moving as the love scenes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am happy to recommend it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
November 27, 2019
It started off so well... and then meh. The diary was a unique twist that helped hook me from the start. And while the sex scenes were smoking, the lack of historical accuracy kept taking me out of the story. He kept referring to her as a servant, which she wasn't. It drove me bonkers and made the plot unravel for me.
BUT... the sex was so hot I finished the book. Kinky fuckery in a historical romance is hard to find. :)
BUT... the sex was so hot I finished the book. Kinky fuckery in a historical romance is hard to find. :)
January 22, 2022
Stacy Reid is always a good choice and I jumped at this one.
I loved Lily and Oliver. They’re both really good people with big hearts. There was an instant attraction and I thoroughly enjoyed reading their relationship blossom into something more than just physical.
Plot wise, it was interesting. This book does have a plot, but there are a lot of sexy times. And it did go in a direction I was expecting, but still delighted to get there.
Overall, a quick and fun read. I can’t wait to jump into another book from Stacy’s backlist.
I loved Lily and Oliver. They’re both really good people with big hearts. There was an instant attraction and I thoroughly enjoyed reading their relationship blossom into something more than just physical.
Plot wise, it was interesting. This book does have a plot, but there are a lot of sexy times. And it did go in a direction I was expecting, but still delighted to get there.
Overall, a quick and fun read. I can’t wait to jump into another book from Stacy’s backlist.
February 18, 2019
Oliver Carlyle, the marquess of Ambrose, has finally decided it is time he got married. To this purpose, his mother has organised a house party where he might find a suitable bride. Oliver is a romantic at heart, but dispairs of ever finding a wife who would accept his preferred type of bedsport. When he reads a diary filled with naughty entries, Oliver's hopes rise. Is it possible that his dream woman is attending the house party? Who is she? How to find her without compromising her? Mrs. Lily Layton is beyond distraught! If anyone came to know that she, a proper widow and companion to the marquess' mother, is the author of such a diary she would be humiliated!
THE SCANDALOUS DIARY OF LILY LAYTON is an ingenious and sexy twist on Cinderella, and it is so very, very well done! I love that Stacy Reid does not waste any time and that we get to the heart of the matter right away. While neither realises it, Lily and Oliver are secretly lusting after each other, they have no intention of acting on it; it just isn't done! And how beautifully Ms. Reid makes it possible for them to come together; this is one of the most convincing romances I have ever read between an aristocrat and a commoner. Even though this is a very, very sexy story, it is subtly done and felt genuine, not to mention the numerous delightful touches throughout. Lily is a wonderful character; apart from her long-suppressed sensual nature, she is very proper but she speaks her mind; she also has talents that she wants to exploit in the future. Oliver is lovely; he's a red-blooded male but respectful of women and the institution of marriage; his lustful nature does not preclude him being a gentleman at all times.
Stacy Reid writes splendid dialogues, her prose is eloquent and lively, the sex scenes are super hot yet done very tastefully. The story flows smoothly, every action is carefully planned; nothing is convoluted or left to chance. Both characters are beautifully defined, with compelling backstories, and their attraction and affection are undeniable. While the eroticism is intrinsic to the plot, it is also a very romantic and surprisingly touching story. With THE SCANDALOUS DIARY OF LILY LAYTON, Stacy Reid demonstrates that it is possible to write a novel that is erotic, romantic, moving, and still remain faithful to the Regency era.
THE SCANDALOUS DIARY OF LILY LAYTON is an ingenious and sexy twist on Cinderella, and it is so very, very well done! I love that Stacy Reid does not waste any time and that we get to the heart of the matter right away. While neither realises it, Lily and Oliver are secretly lusting after each other, they have no intention of acting on it; it just isn't done! And how beautifully Ms. Reid makes it possible for them to come together; this is one of the most convincing romances I have ever read between an aristocrat and a commoner. Even though this is a very, very sexy story, it is subtly done and felt genuine, not to mention the numerous delightful touches throughout. Lily is a wonderful character; apart from her long-suppressed sensual nature, she is very proper but she speaks her mind; she also has talents that she wants to exploit in the future. Oliver is lovely; he's a red-blooded male but respectful of women and the institution of marriage; his lustful nature does not preclude him being a gentleman at all times.
Stacy Reid writes splendid dialogues, her prose is eloquent and lively, the sex scenes are super hot yet done very tastefully. The story flows smoothly, every action is carefully planned; nothing is convoluted or left to chance. Both characters are beautifully defined, with compelling backstories, and their attraction and affection are undeniable. While the eroticism is intrinsic to the plot, it is also a very romantic and surprisingly touching story. With THE SCANDALOUS DIARY OF LILY LAYTON, Stacy Reid demonstrates that it is possible to write a novel that is erotic, romantic, moving, and still remain faithful to the Regency era.
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