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Victorian Decadence #3
His Countess
Businessman Gideon Banks is cold, brilliant, rich…and bored. Who knew that a man who excelled at debauchery could become so bored? It’s not until he learns that he is heir to the Taunton Earldom that things start to get interesting. The late earl’s irksome, superior, and entirely too attractive widow is particularly fascinating to him. And the fact that she’s now entirely dependent on him? That opens up an astonishing array of thrilling—and erotic—possibilities…
Alys Taunton might be sheltered and lonely, but she’s not stupid. When Gideon proposes a marriage of convenience, she never expects the immoral man to remain faithful. But the sensual delights he promises are impossible to resist, and she soon starts to wonder what would be more painful: refusing him and keeping her distance, or offering him her complete surrender, heart, body and soul.
Amidst a cycle of mind games and struggles for sexual dominance, can Gideon and Alys find their way to happily ever after? Or will their dark desires tear them apart forever?
His Countess is an angsty, dark, standalone historical erotic romance novel featuring consensual BDSM, MF, MMF, FFM, voyeurism, exhibitionism, explicit love scenes, and YES, a happily ever after!
This is EROTIC ROMANCE, not erotica. That means this book has a real story and lots of it.
TRIGGER WARNING: marital infidelity & lots of kink.
@109,000 word novel, no cliffhanger
Alys Taunton might be sheltered and lonely, but she’s not stupid. When Gideon proposes a marriage of convenience, she never expects the immoral man to remain faithful. But the sensual delights he promises are impossible to resist, and she soon starts to wonder what would be more painful: refusing him and keeping her distance, or offering him her complete surrender, heart, body and soul.
Amidst a cycle of mind games and struggles for sexual dominance, can Gideon and Alys find their way to happily ever after? Or will their dark desires tear them apart forever?
His Countess is an angsty, dark, standalone historical erotic romance novel featuring consensual BDSM, MF, MMF, FFM, voyeurism, exhibitionism, explicit love scenes, and YES, a happily ever after!
This is EROTIC ROMANCE, not erotica. That means this book has a real story and lots of it.
TRIGGER WARNING: marital infidelity & lots of kink.
@109,000 word novel, no cliffhanger
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2020
About the author
S.M. LaViolette
36 books630 followersWho is S.M. LaViolette?
S.M. (that’s short for Shantal Marie) writes super spicy historical romance and historical erotic romance. S.M. likes to write about heroes and heroines who don't fit the mold--that means heroes who aren't always dukes and heroines who aren't always virgins.
People have described S.M.'s style as dark, angsty, and dryly witty.
S.M. also writes historical romance under the pen name Minerva Spencer, and historical mystery under S.M. Goodwin.
S.M. has been a criminal prosecutor, college history teacher, B&B operator, dock worker, ice cream manufacturer, reader for the blind, motel maid, and bounty hunter.
Okay, so the part about being a bounty hunter is a lie.
S.M. does, however, know how to hypnotize a Dungeness crab, sew her own Regency Era clothing, knit a frog hat, juggle, rebuild a 1959 American Rambler, and gain control of Asia (and hold on to it) in the game of RISK.
S.M. (that’s short for Shantal Marie) writes super spicy historical romance and historical erotic romance. S.M. likes to write about heroes and heroines who don't fit the mold--that means heroes who aren't always dukes and heroines who aren't always virgins.
People have described S.M.'s style as dark, angsty, and dryly witty.
S.M. also writes historical romance under the pen name Minerva Spencer, and historical mystery under S.M. Goodwin.
S.M. has been a criminal prosecutor, college history teacher, B&B operator, dock worker, ice cream manufacturer, reader for the blind, motel maid, and bounty hunter.
Okay, so the part about being a bounty hunter is a lie.
S.M. does, however, know how to hypnotize a Dungeness crab, sew her own Regency Era clothing, knit a frog hat, juggle, rebuild a 1959 American Rambler, and gain control of Asia (and hold on to it) in the game of RISK.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
December 3, 2022
My usual disclaimer...read the book info as LaViolette writes erotica and all forms of it. Not my favorite even though it moves the series along. I think my problem is the corruption of Alys....why I don't know as she was a VERY willing participant in it. I guess I just wanted it to go a different direction than it did. The storyline was nothing new with lots of smut. This really was a case of me not the author. 3.5*
June 1, 2020
I’d been waiting for Gideon’s story and was not disappointed. He definitely was the more promiscuous of his group of associates. And if you’ve kept up with the series, you know that’s quite a feat. To put it plainly, I doubt Gideon ever met a woman he didn’t want to shag. He was selfish. He wanted what he wanted, how he wanted, and when he wanted. And the more variety the better. He scoffed at the idea of marriage. Who in their right mind would give up a buffet for one single dish? So to say he’d lived a debauched life would probably be an understatement. Still, lately that life bored him. By way of a maze of relations, Gideon finds himself an Earl and sharing his new home with the widow of the former earl. With Alys, he’s exposed to something he’d never experienced before. It was the first time he’d actually spent time talking with a woman and not shagging her. And he enjoyed it. Of course there is mutual attraction and they do finally do the deed. Quite often and quite creatively. Who could resist Gideon? But Gideon’s selfish ways could ruin the best thing in his life as quickly as it has started.
What a great story! Elegant writing, likeable characters, sensual and explicit with humor too and enough sex to keep you almost as satisfied as the characters themselves. This series is steamy erotica that more than delivers on the romance as well. It’s not a light hearted read. In fact, it may well push your boundaries. But no matter how “out of the normal” Alys and Gideon’s relationship may be, there’s definitely love and need at its foundation. Fans of this series will be thrilled with Gideon’s story. He may be an alphahole but let’s face it, a hero without character isn’t much of a hero at all. And Gideon has character in spades.
What a great story! Elegant writing, likeable characters, sensual and explicit with humor too and enough sex to keep you almost as satisfied as the characters themselves. This series is steamy erotica that more than delivers on the romance as well. It’s not a light hearted read. In fact, it may well push your boundaries. But no matter how “out of the normal” Alys and Gideon’s relationship may be, there’s definitely love and need at its foundation. Fans of this series will be thrilled with Gideon’s story. He may be an alphahole but let’s face it, a hero without character isn’t much of a hero at all. And Gideon has character in spades.
November 18, 2025
I liked this much more than I expected! I had read Book 1 of this series, but didn’t connect with the smut, although I could see what it was trying to do, and the third act separation overemphasized punishing the main leads, unnecessarily so.
Decided to try this. Good pacing, and it’s about the 40% mark where things really kick it in high gear. I quite enjoyed the smut, although I’m not a fan of exhibitionism/voyeurism/sharing kinks, and this is what the author quite enjoys, messy love triangles with individuals who may or may not be aware they are in one! In book 1, the wife was an unsuspecting player in the game, but here everyone is aware and agrees to it, more or less
I actually loved the major misunderstanding conflict, and could have read a whole book about two aristocrats making each other jealous with their sex games with other folks. Seeing Alys dish it back to Gideon was sooo good. It was drama I lived for! The angst was *divine.*
I was also surprised that the main leads are both conventionally attractive. In book 1, I was so confused about how the hero looked (he was not considered attractive but has somewhat interesting eyes?).
Reminded me in a faint way of Elisa Braden’s work about the dissolute alcoholic and the tall widow, as they bond over putting a falling estate into repairs. Gideon is not an alcoholic, but he has inherited an estate and much of the beginning part of the story is them fixing it up.
Decided to try this. Good pacing, and it’s about the 40% mark where things really kick it in high gear. I quite enjoyed the smut, although I’m not a fan of exhibitionism/voyeurism/sharing kinks, and this is what the author quite enjoys, messy love triangles with individuals who may or may not be aware they are in one! In book 1, the wife was an unsuspecting player in the game, but here everyone is aware and agrees to it, more or less
I actually loved the major misunderstanding conflict, and could have read a whole book about two aristocrats making each other jealous with their sex games with other folks. Seeing Alys dish it back to Gideon was sooo good. It was drama I lived for! The angst was *divine.*
I was also surprised that the main leads are both conventionally attractive. In book 1, I was so confused about how the hero looked (he was not considered attractive but has somewhat interesting eyes?).
Reminded me in a faint way of Elisa Braden’s work about the dissolute alcoholic and the tall widow, as they bond over putting a falling estate into repairs. Gideon is not an alcoholic, but he has inherited an estate and much of the beginning part of the story is them fixing it up.
January 1, 2023
I was surprised at myself for choosing this book as the first book I read for the year 2023. I haven't been particularly enamoured with this series; I'd DNF 'His harlot' - I couldn't abide Edward and Nora, skimmed read 'His Valet' - okay but disliked the MCs, read and enjoyed 'Their Master' - Smith's background and the story were more interesting than the smut, so I thought that was a win.
This book was a pleasant surprise to me. I disliked Gideon (he was a first-rate man whore), but I liked Alys. She was innocent and naive regarding sex even though she had been married for eight years. She only became interested in debauchery and voyeurism because Gideon exposed her to them. I doubt she would have been involved in this lifestyle due to her sheltered upbringing. I thought her sexual awakening was the most interesting aspect of the book.
There was a lot of taboo stuff regarding the smut, so YMMV. I'm not sure I'll read the next one but never say never! When the mood hits me, maybe I'll read it.
This book was a pleasant surprise to me. I disliked Gideon (he was a first-rate man whore), but I liked Alys. She was innocent and naive regarding sex even though she had been married for eight years. She only became interested in debauchery and voyeurism because Gideon exposed her to them. I doubt she would have been involved in this lifestyle due to her sheltered upbringing. I thought her sexual awakening was the most interesting aspect of the book.
There was a lot of taboo stuff regarding the smut, so YMMV. I'm not sure I'll read the next one but never say never! When the mood hits me, maybe I'll read it.
June 2, 2020
Can the series get even better?YES!! His Countess is a fitting finale to the Decadence series
Can stories and characters grow on you that you enter into their world and want the best for them? Truly that’s my experience with with the books and writing of S M LaViolette/ Minerva Spencer. She is a master story teller with intricately drawn out narrative, fantastically flawed strong humane characters, events that draw you in and a true page turner.
The Countess draws you into the story of Gideon Banks, the fourth member of the Syndicate, a group of men who grew up in harsh reality, and now some of the wealthiest citizens of Victorian England. The decadence series lives true to its name, they live a fabulous flawed life all along helping many more but have no care for the strictures of the Victorian era. They use their intellect, do not shy away from hard work,enjoy sexual freedom (taboo for the ordinary layman), and a love that is not just romantic but fills the emptiness within, gathering their broken pieces and making them whole.
This story runs parallel to The Valet and if you have not read the books 1 and 2 a definite must read and will shed more light into this story.
Gideon Banks is now an Earl and has an impoverished earldom bestowed on him through a paternal grandfather. Alys is the countess for much noble birth (she is the daughter of a duke) but much maligned by the previous earl. Their lives intersect. That’s the only cliche in the story. The rest of the journey is fantastic fiction, narrative, events, characters as they flow in and out, well defined twists, angst and a finale that leaves the reader content. Every secondary character plays a definite role as the drama unfolds, be it the old, gin drinking lady’s maid, or the strong stable master or the valet, and of course the other other syndicate members join the house party at the estate.
The decadence series started off with a stupendous book 1 in the Harlot. S M LaViolette has managed to keep the series in top order by scintillating narrative, a real story of people, intrigue, a little mystery, a human flaws, the fierce nature to overcome all odds and to live a full life through one’s own rules without harming another.
I am hoping against hope the author will at some point, have a story for one of the favorite characters who plays a very important role in all three books, Mr.Smith ( without a first name never revealed, but Nora Franshawe of Book 1 uses a fun opportune to have him whisper it in her ear) get a finale and readers get a closure too🤞🏼
Can stories and characters grow on you that you enter into their world and want the best for them? Truly that’s my experience with with the books and writing of S M LaViolette/ Minerva Spencer. She is a master story teller with intricately drawn out narrative, fantastically flawed strong humane characters, events that draw you in and a true page turner.
The Countess draws you into the story of Gideon Banks, the fourth member of the Syndicate, a group of men who grew up in harsh reality, and now some of the wealthiest citizens of Victorian England. The decadence series lives true to its name, they live a fabulous flawed life all along helping many more but have no care for the strictures of the Victorian era. They use their intellect, do not shy away from hard work,enjoy sexual freedom (taboo for the ordinary layman), and a love that is not just romantic but fills the emptiness within, gathering their broken pieces and making them whole.
This story runs parallel to The Valet and if you have not read the books 1 and 2 a definite must read and will shed more light into this story.
Gideon Banks is now an Earl and has an impoverished earldom bestowed on him through a paternal grandfather. Alys is the countess for much noble birth (she is the daughter of a duke) but much maligned by the previous earl. Their lives intersect. That’s the only cliche in the story. The rest of the journey is fantastic fiction, narrative, events, characters as they flow in and out, well defined twists, angst and a finale that leaves the reader content. Every secondary character plays a definite role as the drama unfolds, be it the old, gin drinking lady’s maid, or the strong stable master or the valet, and of course the other other syndicate members join the house party at the estate.
The decadence series started off with a stupendous book 1 in the Harlot. S M LaViolette has managed to keep the series in top order by scintillating narrative, a real story of people, intrigue, a little mystery, a human flaws, the fierce nature to overcome all odds and to live a full life through one’s own rules without harming another.
I am hoping against hope the author will at some point, have a story for one of the favorite characters who plays a very important role in all three books, Mr.Smith ( without a first name never revealed, but Nora Franshawe of Book 1 uses a fun opportune to have him whisper it in her ear) get a finale and readers get a closure too🤞🏼
January 20, 2023
A typical marriage of convenience between a womanizer and a widow who finally acknowledges the pleasures of the flesh. Yeah, you know the drill: the hero wants to keep his single life with multiple sexual partners, but the opposite makes him jealous, so he stays away from the FMC, being devastated (and also a cheater) until he finally realizes that he loves her and how stupid he was to waste precious time with his beloved wife.
I don't think I'm doing spoilers here; all avid romance readers know this plot. If you're looking for this kind of plot with more people mixing in the sexual scenes, voyeurism, and bdsm, add this book to your bookshelf.
For me, this was the most boring of the series so far; the amount of peephole scenes tired me. I also didn't understand all the enchantment surrounding Alys; she was able to make everyone fall in love with her, but I didn't catch how.
The last 10% of the book was undoubtedly the most interesting, and now I don't even know how I'm going to read Smith's book since, without a doubt, he should be with Jackson. It's not at all the literature I prefer to read (mm), but they are the two most mysterious and intense characters so far; together, they would definitely fit. 🤭
I don't think I'm doing spoilers here; all avid romance readers know this plot. If you're looking for this kind of plot with more people mixing in the sexual scenes, voyeurism, and bdsm, add this book to your bookshelf.
For me, this was the most boring of the series so far; the amount of peephole scenes tired me. I also didn't understand all the enchantment surrounding Alys; she was able to make everyone fall in love with her, but I didn't catch how.
The last 10% of the book was undoubtedly the most interesting, and now I don't even know how I'm going to read Smith's book since, without a doubt, he should be with Jackson. It's not at all the literature I prefer to read (mm), but they are the two most mysterious and intense characters so far; together, they would definitely fit. 🤭
November 6, 2022
Another amazing story! I think so far this one has been the lightest of this series. It didn’t feel as dark or as heavy as the previous two were.
.
I didn’t know what to expect with Gideon's story, I didn’t know what his journey would be, but I am so utterly pleased with it! Alys I loved! She was a minx but also knew and understood how to act/behave.
.
There were so many lines and moment in this book that had me bursting out laughing! I also loved both their internal monologues they had with themselves! There was also something so bittersweet that a woman who fundamentally never had anyone care or love her, ended up with three men falling in love with, for who she truly was.
.
And oh my Jackson! I need to have a story for him!!! You can’t leave me hanging! He has such a good basis and background!
.
One of my favourite things about this series has been how the other characters get woven in. They are there, we continue to get bits and pieces from them and how their futures have played out, but it isn’t in that overbearing way. They don’t take away from the current story. I am still so desperate to read Smiths story!!
.
Once again the 🌶🌶🌶 has been off the charts! Also each book delves into slightly different fantasies and different fetishes. I really don’t want this series to end!!
.
I didn’t know what to expect with Gideon's story, I didn’t know what his journey would be, but I am so utterly pleased with it! Alys I loved! She was a minx but also knew and understood how to act/behave.
.
There were so many lines and moment in this book that had me bursting out laughing! I also loved both their internal monologues they had with themselves! There was also something so bittersweet that a woman who fundamentally never had anyone care or love her, ended up with three men falling in love with, for who she truly was.
.
And oh my Jackson! I need to have a story for him!!! You can’t leave me hanging! He has such a good basis and background!
.
One of my favourite things about this series has been how the other characters get woven in. They are there, we continue to get bits and pieces from them and how their futures have played out, but it isn’t in that overbearing way. They don’t take away from the current story. I am still so desperate to read Smiths story!!
.
Once again the 🌶🌶🌶 has been off the charts! Also each book delves into slightly different fantasies and different fetishes. I really don’t want this series to end!!
June 3, 2020
Businessman Gideon Banks is cold, brilliant, rich and bored. It’s not until he learns that he is heir to the Taunton Earldom that things start to get interesting. The late earl’s irksome, superior, and entirely too attractive widow is particularly fascinating to him. Alys Taunton might be sheltered and lonely, but she’s not stupid. When Gideon proposes a marriage of convenience, she never expects the immoral man to remain faithful. But the sensual delights he promises are impossible to resist, and she soon starts to wonder what would be more painful: refusing him and keeping her distance, or offering him her complete surrender, heart, body and soul.
This is the third book in the series & it’s very easily read on its own or read out of sequence. Gideon has appeared in the earlier books but now we really get to know him. This is another very well written erotic romance, if you don’t like hot, steamy & explicit sex then give this a miss however there’s so much more to this than the erotic. The characters ooze depth I loved both Gideon & Alys, Gideon is like a fallen angel but oh his mouth!! One of the joys of this book is the humour & the sarcastic, snarkyness of Gideon, which made me laugh out loud at times. Alys suffered an unhappy marriage & finally comes into her own with Gideon. The road to their HEA isn't easy & some problems are self inflicted but it made for a riveting read & Gideon kept me up until 3am to finish it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the third book in the series & it’s very easily read on its own or read out of sequence. Gideon has appeared in the earlier books but now we really get to know him. This is another very well written erotic romance, if you don’t like hot, steamy & explicit sex then give this a miss however there’s so much more to this than the erotic. The characters ooze depth I loved both Gideon & Alys, Gideon is like a fallen angel but oh his mouth!! One of the joys of this book is the humour & the sarcastic, snarkyness of Gideon, which made me laugh out loud at times. Alys suffered an unhappy marriage & finally comes into her own with Gideon. The road to their HEA isn't easy & some problems are self inflicted but it made for a riveting read & Gideon kept me up until 3am to finish it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 11, 2021
This book! I enjoyed this so much more than I thought I would. I usually avoid books with partner sharing especially within marriage… but beautiful Gideon was broken… and it’s interesting to Imagine why people do the things they do…it is fiction after all. Extremely well written and fast paced read…lots of smut. If you enjoyed two of my all time favorites—Ruthless by Anne Stuart or Duke of Desire by Elizabeth Hoyt you will love this book.
December 1, 2025
This is my favorite of the series and I really hope the author will continue the series. We've read about Gideon from book and he usually acted like a man-child, and I loved he didn't change. It was a fascinating, fun, sexually charged and sexually adventurous book.
March 18, 2026
4.5⭐️ I think my fav yet from this series. I love the angst and jealousy in this story. Gideon was such an idiot to deny his own feelings. Like imagine couldn’t get hard for any other woman besides your own wife, for that his dallying with OW didn’t bother me. Honestly can’t wait for Smith’s book. He sounds mature and might be the most interesting character to get to know.
May 27, 2024
Very carnal. Very steamy. Excellent story. Stubborn and angsty characters, who are in love in spite of themselves. Both MMC and MFC are learning how to love and how to act lovingly to each other, with several bumps long the road.
Ménage, MMF, MFF, light bondage, light whipping, voyeuristic.
A bit of mystery as a Subplot.
Laviolette always delivers good stories with lots and lots of steam.
I enjoyed this one, even though I thought the MMC was a real jerk….and he was but he was also emotionally damaged and needed to learn how to love.
Ménage, MMF, MFF, light bondage, light whipping, voyeuristic.
A bit of mystery as a Subplot.
Laviolette always delivers good stories with lots and lots of steam.
I enjoyed this one, even though I thought the MMC was a real jerk….and he was but he was also emotionally damaged and needed to learn how to love.
October 2, 2022
🆗
Ok story but not what I expected based on the blurb. I felt like by the time I got the book I was expecting a giant curveball came at the 11th hour. By 90% of the story, I just didn't believe the quick turnaround I was given for their HEA. They said things and he did things in their marriage that are irredeemable and.it should have taken more to get around. All in all the pacing was stilted to get to the good story and the 2nd Act ruins any goodwill.
Expectations
😌 A cad who realizes he could easily train the widow Lady
😌 A Lady unsure but growing in her sexuality; ok with an unusual marriage arrangement because it suits her needs
😌 MMF, Voyeurism, light BDSM
Reality
😒 Cad does not even mention the arrangement until 50% of the book. Before then FFM wathe s only play being used. He was slurping up on the Lady wanting to be with her but having actual sex with OW whores in the house he shares with the Lady and in his chamber
😒 Cad does the unthinkable a day after their wedding to sabotage his happiness instead of just talking to his wife, who he learned was making him happy. This is by 60-70% of the book.
😒 Cad is whoring around in London society on purpose
😒 MMF felt weird because it was twisted consent with odd dynamics. And the MMF was only through voyeurism
Ok story but not what I expected based on the blurb. I felt like by the time I got the book I was expecting a giant curveball came at the 11th hour. By 90% of the story, I just didn't believe the quick turnaround I was given for their HEA. They said things and he did things in their marriage that are irredeemable and.it should have taken more to get around. All in all the pacing was stilted to get to the good story and the 2nd Act ruins any goodwill.
Expectations
😌 A cad who realizes he could easily train the widow Lady
😌 A Lady unsure but growing in her sexuality; ok with an unusual marriage arrangement because it suits her needs
😌 MMF, Voyeurism, light BDSM
Reality
😒 Cad does not even mention the arrangement until 50% of the book. Before then FFM wathe s only play being used. He was slurping up on the Lady wanting to be with her but having actual sex with OW whores in the house he shares with the Lady and in his chamber
😒 Cad does the unthinkable a day after their wedding to sabotage his happiness instead of just talking to his wife, who he learned was making him happy. This is by 60-70% of the book.
😒 Cad is whoring around in London society on purpose
😒 MMF felt weird because it was twisted consent with odd dynamics. And the MMF was only through voyeurism
August 22, 2022
I had to knock a star off since I don’t think the author or Ayls made Gideon grovel enough in the end for being the absolute asshole he was in the last 25% of the book. Other then that I throughly enjoyed this 3rd installment in the. Victorian Decadence series. It was interesting introducing a heroine that is, for all intended purposes, innocent. I really felt for Ayls and I’m glad she grew and acquired the backbone she need to deal with the man-child that Gideon is (aside from not making him grovel). I’m struggling (even now) to see what qualities Gideon possess to make him an attractive hero. But this is what I kind of liked about this book and S.M.’s writing that she elicits such a response in me.
January 13, 2022
Book 3 in the Victorian Decadence series brings to readers the story of 38 year old businessman Gideon Banks, who is legendary for his depravity, whose lecherous behavior had him expelled from Oxford at one point in time. Gideon makes no apologies for who he is, but at the same time, he increasingly finds himself dissatisfied with his lot in life, that is until he becomes the Sixth Earl of Taunton and finds himself saddled with the former mistress, Alys Taunton.
26 years old, Alys becomes a widow after eight years of marriage, having become disillusioned with the institution itself. She wants nothing to do with marriage, but as society would have it, she requires the protection and good will of the new Earl if she were to survive. While Gideon believes Alys to be of the stuck up lot in high society, Alys wants one thing from Gideon: for him to tutor her in the pleasures of the flesh.
What starts off as a raunchy one-time sexual escapade, with Gideon who might have been reluctant at first, brings such heady pleasure to both, which of course makes Gideon wary of what that might mean in the long run. The resultant effect ends in a marriage of convenience for which Gideon lays down one basic rule – he does not do fidelity, nor does he expect it from his wife. However, each raw encounter with his wife brings Gideon to the brink of surrender to which he resists with all his might, until one final act of power play on his part results in what Gideon has been pursuing out of sheer fear.
I found His Countess to be great in terms of readability, when most romances these days are either too preachy for their own good and/or filled with modern jargon that strives to keep certain reader-bases happy. But in reality, what it does is remove the essence of the genre that makes for such raw and gut-wrenching reads. I want my books to mean something; the drama as long as it adds value to the story and fleshes out the characters well enough for me to fall in love.
I enjoyed the journey that Gideon takes towards his happily ever after, even though like in previous books, I cannot fathom wanting to have so many sexual partners all at the same time. I can understand the lure certainly, when it comes to a someone who can give you pleasure of the kind you have only ever dreamed of. We are hard pressed to come across just one single person who does that in real life, and for the protagonists in these stories to just get it on with anyone of their choosing is still a bit jarring for me.
In my opinion, men and women experience sexual pleasure differently aside from the fact that we all identify with raw animal magnetism of those that attract us at our very core. But that does not translate into gratification of the kind that seems to come so easily to the characters of these books, no matter what. For women, our minds play a key role in reaching fulfillment, but for men it is a different ballgame altogether. Perhaps, new age adults might believe differently, but quantity does not necessarily translate to quality in the short or long term.
My ramblings about sexual pleasure aside, these decadent books by Ms. LaViolette are unlike most historical romances readers would come across. While Ms. LaViolette categorizes these books as historical erotic romance and not erotica, I would say it is a bit of both. There are few authors who dare push the conventional boundaries of romance novels, and with Ms. LaViolette, I would say she has no boundaries to begin with, giving readers highly erotically charged reads that are hard to put down.
As most readers and fans of this series, I cannot help but yearn to read Smith’s story. However, I believe it would be quite a while yet, given what Ms. LaViolette has stated in that regard on Goodreads. One can keep hoping and praying that Smith lets Ms. LaViolette write his story and give us all what we want!
Recommended for fans of the series and those who love plenty of eroticism in their novels.
Final Verdict: While Gideon Banks might not have a conventional bone in his body, his countess changes it all. Great characterization renders this a page-turner!
Rating = 4/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
26 years old, Alys becomes a widow after eight years of marriage, having become disillusioned with the institution itself. She wants nothing to do with marriage, but as society would have it, she requires the protection and good will of the new Earl if she were to survive. While Gideon believes Alys to be of the stuck up lot in high society, Alys wants one thing from Gideon: for him to tutor her in the pleasures of the flesh.
What starts off as a raunchy one-time sexual escapade, with Gideon who might have been reluctant at first, brings such heady pleasure to both, which of course makes Gideon wary of what that might mean in the long run. The resultant effect ends in a marriage of convenience for which Gideon lays down one basic rule – he does not do fidelity, nor does he expect it from his wife. However, each raw encounter with his wife brings Gideon to the brink of surrender to which he resists with all his might, until one final act of power play on his part results in what Gideon has been pursuing out of sheer fear.
I found His Countess to be great in terms of readability, when most romances these days are either too preachy for their own good and/or filled with modern jargon that strives to keep certain reader-bases happy. But in reality, what it does is remove the essence of the genre that makes for such raw and gut-wrenching reads. I want my books to mean something; the drama as long as it adds value to the story and fleshes out the characters well enough for me to fall in love.
I enjoyed the journey that Gideon takes towards his happily ever after, even though like in previous books, I cannot fathom wanting to have so many sexual partners all at the same time. I can understand the lure certainly, when it comes to a someone who can give you pleasure of the kind you have only ever dreamed of. We are hard pressed to come across just one single person who does that in real life, and for the protagonists in these stories to just get it on with anyone of their choosing is still a bit jarring for me.
In my opinion, men and women experience sexual pleasure differently aside from the fact that we all identify with raw animal magnetism of those that attract us at our very core. But that does not translate into gratification of the kind that seems to come so easily to the characters of these books, no matter what. For women, our minds play a key role in reaching fulfillment, but for men it is a different ballgame altogether. Perhaps, new age adults might believe differently, but quantity does not necessarily translate to quality in the short or long term.
My ramblings about sexual pleasure aside, these decadent books by Ms. LaViolette are unlike most historical romances readers would come across. While Ms. LaViolette categorizes these books as historical erotic romance and not erotica, I would say it is a bit of both. There are few authors who dare push the conventional boundaries of romance novels, and with Ms. LaViolette, I would say she has no boundaries to begin with, giving readers highly erotically charged reads that are hard to put down.
As most readers and fans of this series, I cannot help but yearn to read Smith’s story. However, I believe it would be quite a while yet, given what Ms. LaViolette has stated in that regard on Goodreads. One can keep hoping and praying that Smith lets Ms. LaViolette write his story and give us all what we want!
Recommended for fans of the series and those who love plenty of eroticism in their novels.
Final Verdict: While Gideon Banks might not have a conventional bone in his body, his countess changes it all. Great characterization renders this a page-turner!
Rating = 4/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
July 19, 2020
I'm always making confessions about my reading experiences of Minerva's books, well my confession this time is that I wasn't very much intrigued by Gideon's character... and then, this book happen.
Now I must confess that I totally loved Mr. Banks, more than I would have thought. I know he is flawed, irredimable, rude and of course the most promiscous man in England, and yet, I adore the other side of him, the playful, fun and kind man who actually CAN fall in love.
Aly is charming, so lovely and formal. She is so very different from the previous heroines, she was educated to be the perfect lady and ignore and condemn her most basic urges, so I think the changes and permissions she has to make in order to be in a relationship with Gideon are great and nowhere close to easy for her, so I admire her in that regard, but in the end the reward is greater.
They are a perfect couple, and their union is what they both needed, there are no obstacles or anything that is keeping them apart except that Gideon screw it up...hard, so of course his journey through redemption is very interesintng and gratyfing.
I think this story was a little more lighthearted than the last two, but not less enjoyable, I read it in one day becuase I couldn't put it down, is just that amazing. Again, Mr. Smith make his appareance, he is such a character, I'm hopeful that there will be a book about him.
Now I must confess that I totally loved Mr. Banks, more than I would have thought. I know he is flawed, irredimable, rude and of course the most promiscous man in England, and yet, I adore the other side of him, the playful, fun and kind man who actually CAN fall in love.
Aly is charming, so lovely and formal. She is so very different from the previous heroines, she was educated to be the perfect lady and ignore and condemn her most basic urges, so I think the changes and permissions she has to make in order to be in a relationship with Gideon are great and nowhere close to easy for her, so I admire her in that regard, but in the end the reward is greater.
They are a perfect couple, and their union is what they both needed, there are no obstacles or anything that is keeping them apart except that Gideon screw it up...hard, so of course his journey through redemption is very interesintng and gratyfing.
I think this story was a little more lighthearted than the last two, but not less enjoyable, I read it in one day becuase I couldn't put it down, is just that amazing. Again, Mr. Smith make his appareance, he is such a character, I'm hopeful that there will be a book about him.
February 7, 2026
I absolutely enjoyed reading His Countess: A Sensual & Steamy Marriage of Connivence Romance(Victorian Decadent Series)!! All about Alys Taunton a young woman who is widowed after eight years of marriage to Earl Sebastian Taunton & childless at the age of twenty-six, and Gideon Banks is the new Earl of Taunton and has inherited Foxrun a country estate with all its contents and people including the young Alys. Foxrun is a very old estate and is crumbling around its occupants. The last Earl spent very little time or money on the place, since his wife was unable to produce a child. Unfortunately it was not her, since the Earl was married for twelve years prior and it was childless as well. In either case since the place is crumbling, a ton of money must be invested, and since Gideon is extremely wealthy he plans on restoring the estate. Read about Alys & Gideon as they rebuild Foxrun and bring it back to is glory, along with becoming a united front. Lots of emotion, and plenty of toe curling does occur. Definite Read!!!
March 4, 2024
First off that cover is highly misleading. The BDSM in this book is a restraint in two scenes and some light whipping that happens once or twice and they were mostly told and not shown. I was in the mood to read something high on smut and low on plot but instead got the reverse. There was a lot packed here and I think that was the problem. I wish it had been about the countess's sexual awakening but instead it was about the MMCs sexual addiction (it's never referred to as such but my dude needed help). The countess went from a shy widow doing some voyeurism to wanting to get into everyone's pants which would have been fine in a low plot/high smut book but this one was attempting to be an "actual" HR so the lack of characterization was notable. But my biggest problem was the mmc and his infidelity and his ridiculous backstory left a bad taste in my mouth. I still liked the author's voice and plan to check out her other pen name.
🌟🌟/5
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
CW mentions of sexual abuse
🌟🌟/5
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
CW mentions of sexual abuse
December 31, 2021
If you are looking for a complete scorcher, then this is it!
I loved the whole series but I particularly loved the story of Gideon and Alys. It was glorious to watch how bad boy Gideon finally realised his love for Alys and also how endearing Jackson was. Perhaps he needs a story? Don't let the series end here - it's just too good!
I loved the whole series but I particularly loved the story of Gideon and Alys. It was glorious to watch how bad boy Gideon finally realised his love for Alys and also how endearing Jackson was. Perhaps he needs a story? Don't let the series end here - it's just too good!
July 14, 2020
S.M. LaViolette’s His Countess is book 3 of the Victorian Decadence series. Who knew that a man who excelled at debauchery could become so bored? Gideon Bonds is an extremely rich, self-absorbed, promiscuous, bored, cocky character whose life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes the heir to the Taunton Earldom that includes his processor’s widow. Alys Taunton might be sheltered and lonely but she is not stupid to turn down Gideon’s proposal of marriage of convenience. Amidst a cycle of mind games and struggles for sexual dominance, can Gideon and Alys find their way to happily ever after? Whew! His Countess is an angsty, dark erotic romance, so beautifully written. S.M LaViolette creates fantastically flawed characters, dry wit, and a world of voyeurism, exhibitionism, and explicit love scenes that left me breathless.
June 2, 2020
A very very unusual story. Gideon n Alys couldn't be more different from each other. Gideon is extremely rich, self absorbed, promiscuous, bored, cocky... He suddenly inherits an earldom n knows nothing about nobility. He meets Alys, widow of the previous earl. There is attraction n confusion on both their parts. Alys finds herself in a mess. She hasn't seen someone like Gideon.
He likes to do everything in extreme. He cannot imagine him to be married but he does get married. His feelings for Alys grow with time. He was a very complex character with many shades. Alys was relatively easy to understand. She is honourable n dutiful towards her people. She cares for her household staff. Her feelings for Gideon too change over time.
The story took many twists and turns n I'd never predictable. The love scenes if we may call them are extremely steamy n toe curling.
Worth your time
He likes to do everything in extreme. He cannot imagine him to be married but he does get married. His feelings for Alys grow with time. He was a very complex character with many shades. Alys was relatively easy to understand. She is honourable n dutiful towards her people. She cares for her household staff. Her feelings for Gideon too change over time.
The story took many twists and turns n I'd never predictable. The love scenes if we may call them are extremely steamy n toe curling.
Worth your time
June 2, 2020
Lady Alys Taunton is the widow of the fifth Earl. She's living on an estate literally falling down around her head. Now she relies on the generosity of the new Earl for a place to live.The love story of Gideon and Alys is a real tear jerker. Gideon has a destructive attitude and is not always an appealing character. Yet, he has some depth for redemption. Very erotic from the first page to the last. Explicit sex, BDSM, multiple partners MFF, MMF, MF, voyeuristic episodes, infidelity, etc. Definitely not a clean romance, but no way I could stop reading. A fantastic series!
Gifted a copy of this book by the author.
Gifted a copy of this book by the author.
March 9, 2023
I definitely did not fall in love with any of the characters in the entire series. They are trash. The series is not though.
Gideon is suffering from ennui until he finds out that through distant relationships he is now an Earl. He goes to his new estate and meets the former earls widow, Alys. She’s uptight but to be fair he did bring two whores home with him. He realizes she’s watching his room and puts on some shows for her. Then he proposes a marriage of convenience. He doesn’t want to limit his sex life so he proposes that he watch her with someone else. He can’t handle it and leaves.
Voyeur kink unlocked. God this series really feeds my kinks.
Overall Book ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Gideon is suffering from ennui until he finds out that through distant relationships he is now an Earl. He goes to his new estate and meets the former earls widow, Alys. She’s uptight but to be fair he did bring two whores home with him. He realizes she’s watching his room and puts on some shows for her. Then he proposes a marriage of convenience. He doesn’t want to limit his sex life so he proposes that he watch her with someone else. He can’t handle it and leaves.
Voyeur kink unlocked. God this series really feeds my kinks.
Overall Book ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶
June 3, 2020
Wonderful
I absolutely loved this one as the 'rake redeemed' is a favourite trope of mine . Indeed while not diminishing the excellence of the characters in this story Gideon rather reminded me of the hero in The Devil in Winter- like Sebastian Gideon appears to be an utterly unrepentant womanizer until he meets our heroine Alys . Poor Alys the unhappy widow of the previous Earl. A good mystery also pops up bringing the story to a happy end.
I hope there are more stories in the world. Obviously we need Smith to find someine. Novellas for Silver and Jackson would be good too!
I absolutely loved this one as the 'rake redeemed' is a favourite trope of mine . Indeed while not diminishing the excellence of the characters in this story Gideon rather reminded me of the hero in The Devil in Winter- like Sebastian Gideon appears to be an utterly unrepentant womanizer until he meets our heroine Alys . Poor Alys the unhappy widow of the previous Earl. A good mystery also pops up bringing the story to a happy end.
I hope there are more stories in the world. Obviously we need Smith to find someine. Novellas for Silver and Jackson would be good too!
May 13, 2020
Another great book by S.M. LaViolette! I am enjoying "The Victorian Decadence Series" and this book did not disappoint. Alys and Gideon have a very complicated relationship and both have ingrained issues which stop them from enjoying their new relationship. Their journey is not without pain and pride, but the surprising twist of events brings them together for a HEA. Lots of steamy scenes in this book too!
** I was fortunate to read an ARC of this book. **
** I was fortunate to read an ARC of this book. **
April 26, 2020
If you're a fan of S.M. LaViolette's "The Victorian Decadence Series" then you'll love her latest book. There's lots of steamy sex as Alys and Gideon struggle to find their happily ever after in a well-crafted, exquisitely written historical romance that will keep you turning pages late into the night
I was fortunate enough to read an ARC.
I was fortunate enough to read an ARC.
Did Not Finish
September 10, 2024DNF around 23% maybe I'll come back and finish this but as of right now, I think I'm going to move onto the next in the series. I was expecting something a bit different here so I'd rather abandon now.
May 20, 2025
great series.
August 9, 2025
I was excited for Gideon’s story because I enjoyed his appearances in the previous books and I was looking forward to seeing how all the all the observational crumbs from other characters about him would pay off in his own book.
Unfortunately, there was nothing much going for Gideon except that he's hot, childish and good at machinery. And while his looks and immaturity were well illustrated (especially in contrast to that stable guy whose name sounds so similar to stable that i just called him that in my head the entire time), the whole “genius engineer with photographic memory” bit never felt well developed.
We’re told again and again about his brilliance but the actual proof is conveniently offstage.
I guess I wanted to see him maybe show off for more than just his money, maybe actually solve a complicated problem (something that couldve helped the tenants for example) or use his memory in a way that develops his relationship with Alys further.
In short: lots of tell, no show.
Alys' character fared much better in my opinion. Her interactions with the rest of the characters made her loneliness, her love for the house, and her pride convincing to me. There were many occasions that allowed for her actions to give us an understanding for her character instead of just being fed traits by the narration.
I have to admit I didn’t find the conflict that led to their reconciliation satisfying. It was too obvious, it let Gideon off the hook from actually communicating (the whole flimsy letter situation was disproportionate to his mean, toxic actions), and it demanded more suspension of disbelief than I’m usually willing to give, even in stories where I normally enjoy doing so.
3 stars for what?
JACKSON. that's all I have to say.
Unfortunately, there was nothing much going for Gideon except that he's hot, childish and good at machinery. And while his looks and immaturity were well illustrated (especially in contrast to that stable guy whose name sounds so similar to stable that i just called him that in my head the entire time), the whole “genius engineer with photographic memory” bit never felt well developed.
We’re told again and again about his brilliance but the actual proof is conveniently offstage.
I guess I wanted to see him maybe show off for more than just his money, maybe actually solve a complicated problem (something that couldve helped the tenants for example) or use his memory in a way that develops his relationship with Alys further.
In short: lots of tell, no show.
Alys' character fared much better in my opinion. Her interactions with the rest of the characters made her loneliness, her love for the house, and her pride convincing to me. There were many occasions that allowed for her actions to give us an understanding for her character instead of just being fed traits by the narration.
I have to admit I didn’t find the conflict that led to their reconciliation satisfying. It was too obvious, it let Gideon off the hook from actually communicating (the whole flimsy letter situation was disproportionate to his mean, toxic actions), and it demanded more suspension of disbelief than I’m usually willing to give, even in stories where I normally enjoy doing so.
3 stars for what?
JACKSON. that's all I have to say.
October 15, 2022
Gideon & Alys. I couldn't put this one down. Again it isn't just the physical but the character build out. He's jaded and bored with his life of debauchery then he finds out he inherited an earldom. The properties have been neglected. Alys is the widow of the prior earl neglected sexually. He takes over and fixes both problems. Keeping the review shorter, as usual we have a rake (with some MAJOR stamina) who comes to desire a woman that doesn't bend to his will (initially) but he wins her over with passion. Then he gets scared when he's falling in love and pushes her away (successfully) then lives his life separately miserably. He comes to his senses and tries to fix it and she forgives him because she loves him but he has to rescue her from a kidnapping first. So your typical story arc but with voyeurisms, a little BDSM, and many ménages.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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