A Lyon in Her Bed

The Lyon's Den Connected World

by Amanda Mariel

Enter the world of the most notorious gambling den in London, where matches are made... unusually. Welcome to the world of THE LYON'S DEN: The Black Widow of Whitehall Connected World, where the underground of Regency London thrives... and loves.

A woman seeking escape…Lady Emiline Hawthorne will do anything to avoid an unwanted union—even marry a stranger.

To that end, she goes to The Lyon’s Den to enlist Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon’s help. There is only one problem; Emiline cannot pay the matchmaking fee.

A man with a broken heart…Leonard Quinton, 6th Earl of Morton, returned from war to discover everyone he loved had betrayed him. Now he must beget an heir without risking his heart. He proposes a simple arrangement to the first lady he sees at The Lyon’s Den—The use of her womb in return for his financial support.

Two souls, one heart…When Emiline finds the old Countess of Morton’s diary, she learns the secrets of Leonard’s past. Secrets even he does not know.

Will their revelation lead to happily ever after, or will they destroy the bonds Leonard and Emiline have formed?

Genres: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Romance, Novella, Marriage Of Convenience, Historical

92 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 19, 2020

About the author

Amanda Mariel, an accomplished wordsmith, holds dual master's degrees in liberal arts and education, specializing in the captivating realms of history and literature. Beyond her academic pursuits, she embraces the joyful chaos of motherhood, tending to both her cherished teenagers and her trio of adored fur babies. Among them, a noble Bernese Mountain Dog named Blaze, and two cats of distinct character, Ezra and Puff, share their home.

A USA Today Bestselling luminary, Amanda Mariel conjures vivid tapestries of eras long past, drawing inspiration from the languid cadence of days gone by. With pen poised and imagination unfurled, she traverses the annals of time, weaving tales that illuminate historical landscapes with finesse and flair. Her creative spirit finds respite in reading, traversing new horizons through travel, and capturing moments through the lenses of both her camera and artistic endeavors. Yet, it is in the embrace of family that she finds her truest sanctuary.

To delve deeper into Amanda's captivating world visit www.amandamariel.com. While there, an invitation to join her newsletter promises a gateway to the latest from Amanda Mariel's literary treasury, and an opportunity to claim a complimentary eBook.

Amanda's passion extends to her readers, welcoming their voices and stories into her narrative realm. Engage with her through email at amanda@amandamariel.com, or connect via her social Media channels.

Facebook: facebook.com/AuthorAmandaMarie1
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaMarieAuth
BookBub: bookbub.com/authors/amanda-mariel
Instagram: instagram.com/authoramandamariel
TikTok: tiktok.com/@amandamarielromance

Amidst the prose and parchment, Amanda Mariel etches a profound connection, bridging eras, hearts, and minds, creating a legacy that resonates through the corridors of time.

Reviews

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋

Nice to read a wedding night with a little passion, most are tentative and uncomfortable, this was more realistic.

The characters were good and I felt gelled well together.
The storyline was great and was entertaining to read.
One the whole an enjoyable book that kept my attention and interest.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[eyes.2c · Rating 3 out of 5]

Marriage of Convenience!

Lady Emiline Hawthorne has a problem. She's on the verge of being forced into an unwanted marriage. Leonard Quinton, 6th Earl of Morton needs an heir, that means a bride. A marriage of convenience, organized as quickly as possible will work for him. Ditto for Emiline. Hence a visit by both protagonists to The Lyon’s Den and matchmaker Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon.
I liked the premise of a matchmaker. Not that the matchmaker did much matching on this occasion except become the intersection of chance for our two main characters.
Unfortunately it turned out this promising novella had a rather thin spinning of its tale despite its promising storyline. It galloped its way through the events with more than quite a few pages devoted to marital bed antics.
There was a nice little play around the wounded feline kitten and wounded LEOnard. I kept thinking about the story of Androcles and the Lion, and that Leonard is indeed a wounded lion. Whilst away at war the love of his life married elsewhere. He's never recovered. Will Emiline be able to remove the thorn from Leonard's heart? Or is she like the mouse in Aesop's fable that disturbs the lion's sleep and then is in danger of being destroyed? Either way, this is the crux of the matter, the heart of the story for me. The fact that I honed in on this paragraph and amused myself with these analogies earned the story a couple of points, bringing the story from a 2 star to a 3 star read.

A Dragonblade ARC via NetGalley

[Rainelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Lyon In Her Bed, by Amanda Mariel. For a short story, this look gave readers a powerful impact. Amanda’s writing transfer the reader to a world where love, hope and romance always wins in the end. Amanda chooses topics that her readers can easily relate to and understand. The writing in this book stayed close to the plot of the book.
Leonard and Emiline, two strangers meet by chance. They both are looking for marriage, but not love. Little did they know after the nuptials that would change. Some part of Leonard held on to keeping himself distant from his new wife. Well, Emiline wasn’t having any of that and she set out to win her husband heart and his trust.
As time goes by Emiline is sent to the country without her husband, while her marriage hangs on by a very slim thread. Will Leonard learn to cope with his hate of the world? Will he except his wife and trust all that she gives to him? Can he love her? I recommend this short read for those readers who read on the go.
Until next time my fellow readers... read on! I voluntary reviewed this ARC after receiving a free gifted copy. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marrying at first sight

Betrayal is a ugly thing! When a person feels betrayed they often do foolish things such as marrying literally the first girl they run into as in the case of Leo! Leo saw Emeline at Lady Lyon den and said she would do for marriage! He thought her plain and ordinary until the wedding! Emeline was to marry a man 3 times her age that was arranged by her mother as they were destitute with the death of her father! Leo is handsome, wants an heir without an emotional entanglement whatsoever! Leo and Emeline grow close and when she conceives he banished her to the country! But a mysterious diary holds the truth of Leo anger and betrayal! Will Leo let go of his anger and the past to embrace the future? Only in the Lyons den are such riveting novellas!!

[Elodie’s Reading Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Lyon in her Bed
The Lyon's Den Connected World Series
Amanda Mariel
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAmanda...
Release date 08/19/2020
Publisher Dragonblade Publishing

Blurb :

A woman seeking escape…
Lady Emiline Hawthorne will do anything to avoid an unwanted union—even marry a stranger. To that end, she goes to The Lyon’s Den to enlist Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon’s help. There is only one problem; Emiline cannot pay the matchmaking fee.

A man with a broken heart…
Leonard Quinton, 6th Earl of Morton, returned from the war to discover everyone he loved had betrayed him. Now he must beget an heir without risking his heart. He proposes a simple arrangement to the first lady he sees at The Lyon’s Den—The use of her womb in return for his financial support.

Two souls, one heart…
When Emiline finds the old Countess of Morton’s diary, she learns the secrets of Leonard’s past. Secrets even he does not know. Will their revelation lead to happily ever after, or will they destroy the bonds Leonard and Emiline have formed?

My review :

Will his damaged heart be able to heal when the right person reignites it ...

What a lovely short read Mrs Mariel delivers here. Despite its shortness, it lacks in nothing. The characters are fleshy and with depth.
Emiline is a nice woman who wants to transform her marriage of convenience in one of the heart, why while following her new husband’s rules, she tries to break the wall he has built around his heart.
Leonard has lost everyone who counted for him and it left him a hollow shell of his true self. Why he refuses to engage his heart once more and requires a contract-bound wife, with nothing to expect from him outside providing for her needs.
Emiline’s courting of Leonard is sweet as she slowly breaches his resistance by showing him how lovely it is to have someone to share with every day’s life, but will it be enough when time comes for them to go separate ways.
5 stars

I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Dragonblade Publishing, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5.0

Not to mention the many lessons they learn while falling in love, like loyalty, forgiveness, friendship, and so much more… Even though this book is over in a flash, it is well worth every moment!

Read full review in the 2020 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Amanda Hupe]

"Even though this novella is quite short, it packs a big punch to one's emotions."

Check out my full review in InD'Tale Magazine:

http://magazine.indtale.com/magazine/...

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leonard Quinton, 6th Earl of Morton, returned from the war to discover everyone he loved had betrayed him. Now he must beget an heir without risking his heart. He proposes a simple arrangement to the first lady he sees at The Lyon’s Den—The use of her womb in return for his financial support. Emeline Hawthorne will do anything to avoid an unwanted union—even marry a stranger. To that end, she goes to The Lyon’s Den to enlist Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon’s help.
There Leo & Emeline meet by chance & later that day they are married.
A short read, which could have been so much more if it had have been longer. So saying it was an engrossing read that I read in a sitting, both Leo & Emeline had depth & were likeable. I liked that it wasn't insta love but they gradually fell in love & learnt to trust each other & to let go of the past.

[ChasingLeslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Emeline Hawthorne and Leonard Quinton, Earl of Morton, both visit a matchmaker. Emeline wants to avoid a marriage to man nearly three times her age. Leo, suffering loss and betrayal, just wants an heir and no risk of attachment.

I was initially drawn to the premise that this book is part of an interconnected world penned by multiple authors. However, other than meeting at the matchmaker, the couple is the complete focus. It was a sweet, and surprisingly steamy, novella. It was a quick read and I would check out this author again.

* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #ALyonInHerBed #NetGalley

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Lyon in Her Bed by Amanda Mariel is a part of the multi-author Lyon's Den Connected World published by Dragonblade. Leo Quinton, Earl of Morton, wanted a wife and an heir, especially the heir. He wanted no involvement of the heart. As soon as the heir was secured he could go his own way, as could his wife. He doesn't really even get into it with Mrs. Dove-Lyon as he meets Miss Hawthorne on his way in. He asks if she wants to marry, she says she does and so off they go. Emeline Hawthorne couldn't really understand what was happening, but as the negotiations progressed, she became part of the final product. Her mother is less than thrilled and has copious reasons why this is all a bad idea, but Emeline goes forth. Of course, Leo hadn't asked enough questions and he discovers something he can't live with. . .

Reluctant in love is such a common theme, one would think it would get old, and yet it never does. Leo is resistant; Emeline is not. Who prevails? They are both good characters and the reader finds themselves rooting for them to be in a love and be happy, despite the obvious problems. It is a good take on an old trope and one I thoroughly enjoyed reading. It is also fun to have different authors involved in these connected worlds as it gives strikingly different viewpoints of a basic idea. It makes reading the book in this connected world quite entertaining. This is a good book. Readers will enjoy it. I recommend it.

I was invited to read a free ARC of A Lyon in Her Bed by Dragonblade through Netgalley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #alyoninherbed

[Romantic Vixen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Dragonblade Publishing and Net Galley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review

This book truly showcases the power and importance of forgiveness. For a short story this book had a really big impact.

Leonard Quinton is a man broken by betrayal, and now only wants a quick marriage of convenience, where his heart doesn't get involved and has no chance of being broken ever again.

Lady Emiline Hawthorne is women who is desperate to find a match so she can avoid an unwanted union. When Leonard offers her a marriage of convenience, it is a perfect opportunity, at the perfect time.

And even though she too has been burned by love once before, she still hopes to find love in her marriage.
Emiline is a strong, courageous women what she wants and isn't afraid to go after it. Its exactly why she negotiates with Leonard that their marriage should have friendship and that they get to know each other. She helps Leonard understand the events of the past, and helps him move on, to learn to forgive, because she understands that if he doesn't forgive those who betrayed him, he will never be able to start a life with her.

I loved the message behind this story and really enjoyed it. Even though its story, the plot is well developed and the story is fun to read.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

It would seem that the Lyon's Den puts suitable matches together with or without the Black Widow's assistance! When Lord Leonard, Earl of Morton visits the Black Widow to find a bride, he finds one leaving her premises, one that suits his needs perfectly. She is plain, unimposing, and obviously in financial need. All he has to do is deposit his essence, install her in one of his county estates and ignore her for the rest of his life. He is in for a rude awakening, especially when Emiline puts forward demands of her own. As per her request, Leo spends time with Emiline, and little by little his heart thaws and his facade cracks. This well written, heartwarming romance pushed all the right buttons for me. Although this novel is fairly short and can be read in a few hours, it touches one emotionally and the conclusion of the novel brings relief to the reader, in that Leo receives the answers he needs and Emiline wins his heart. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leonard Quinton, Earl of Morton, and Miss Emeline Hawthorn meet each other outside the office of the infamous matchmaker, Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon. He wants a marriage and heir without any attachment, and she wishes to escape marriage to a man old enough to be her grandfather. They marry the next day and embark on their perfect conveniently ever after. Things did not turn out the way Leo wished.

Leo has come back from the war to betrayal and family tragedy. He and Emeline have a emotional and heartwarming story. She is sweet and perceptive. As hard as he tries to keep her at a distance, she pushes to bring him closer. They like each other and enjoy spending time together. In fact, the chemistry between them sizzles. The chance for a happily ever after is here if Leo can conquer his fear and mistrust, and he has Emeline to help if he will let her. This is a lovely story, and I recommend it.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

[Sandra R · Rating 3 out of 5]

A simply written, short Historical romance novella set in 1814 London. This is a nice, easy to read story about Leo, an Earl who needs an heir and Emeline, who is impoverished. They meet at the match-makers and strike up an agreement to tie the knot that evening, even though they know nothing about each other. Once they're married there's instant attraction/instant lust and some steamy sex scenes. Leo is a very closed off, formal man to her mind, so Emeline spends the first days of their union determined to win him over and soften his frozen heart. Meanwhile, Leo's becoming more and more fascinated with his new wife; a wife he wanted for one reason only- to provide an heir, then dump her in the country.

This was an enjoyable story and I especially liked the last few chapters - plus there was a lovely epilogue that made me smile. My thanks go to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for the e-ARC in return for my honest opinion. I will read more from this author for sure.

[SH · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Lady Emiline Hawthorne arrives at The Lyon’s Den, only to be turned away when she can’t afford the fee, little does she know how her life will change. Meanwhile, Leonard Quinton, 6th Earl of Morton, recently returned from war, arrives at the same time, eager to marry and beget an heir. Little does Emiline realise but Leonard has is hiding his past from her. When she discovers the secrets left in his mother’s diary, little does she know that their contents may change her marriage forever.
This was a well written short story, with so much packed in. I found myself wishing that this story could have been fleshed out, as both characters were both caring individuals with their own personal scars. The detail provided well made up for the brevity of the story and I found myself racing to the end, eager to know the outcome.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Mary Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

stars

I was intrigued with the concept of this series so was on the look out for this book. Men and women who need a marraige go to the local brothel keeper and she matches them up. Emiline has just been rejected by Mrs Dove as she doesn't have the money. Leo sees her as she leaves and as he's keen to get an heir but due to heartbreak rejects looking for a wife the normal way is pleased with the arrangement. He wants a distanced relationship, Emiline keen for a proper marriage. The passionate scenes are evocative and eventually Leo is won round. Mysteries in his life come to the light of day due to Emiline's tenacity.

I recommend this book I think you'll enjoy it. Now I'll need to search out the rest of the series!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Debbie Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leonard Quinton, 6th Earl of Morton has returned from the war to find his family has betrayed him. He know it’s his duty to produce an heir, but he doesn’t want the heartbreak this can bring. He decides to go the marriage maker the Black Widow of Whitehall. He runs into a desperate young woman without the means to secure a husband. Lady Emiline Hawthorne has lost her last hope of avoiding a marriage to a gentleman old enough to be her grandfather when fate steps in and she’s married the very next day to a lord. Leo wants a marriage with no attachments and he try’s holding himself aloof, but Emiline slowly breaks down his barriers and win her husband’s heart. An enchanting story of betrayal, loyalty, trust and fighting for a love worth having. I have voluntarily read and reviewed the excellent book.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing read, no slow parts at all. Such an emotional journey for our H/h. The h was the perfect match for him. She didn't let his aloofness ruin her actions. She was caring and very thoughtful. You could just see as the story progressed how the H was crumbling under her actions.

The romance builds slowly which is hard for a novella and many author's can't pull it off. But, this author did in such a delightful way. The character's were written with such depth that you could feel their anguish at times.

There is passionate lovemaking within marriage, heat level 5 out of 5. Only a few times in detail.

The epilogue was like icing on the cake and I loved how it came together.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and spice. This is a stand alone, even though part of a series. (ljb)

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leonard Quinton is the new Earl of Morton. He needs a wife and heir as soon as possible. Emiline Hawthorne needs a husband.
Her mother's pushing her to accept the suit of a man years older and repulsive.
Both go to The Lyon's Den. Emiline cannot afford the fee, but the minute Leonard sees her he knows she's the one and pays the fee. Married that afternoon, he plans only to bed her for an heir, no emotional attachment.
Emiline sees beneath Leonard's facade and the man he really is. If only she can solve the mystery of Leonard's pain. A quick read with a young lady who believes in love.

[Petula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leonard Quinton, Earl of Morton is suffering the feelings of betrayal and loss,  but is determined to move on with what he needs to do.  He needs an heir as quickly as possible. The Lyon's Den is the place to find a wife.  

Lady Emiline Hawthorn and her mother are desperate for money but she really doesn't want to marry a man three times her age. There's only one place she can think of she can get help. 

A very fast paced historical romance.  The characters are fun and very loveable.  A little predictable but a very good read.  

[Ysabel · Rating 1 out of 5]

Uh what was that? Everything happened so fast, the characters didn't even have deeper thoughts, their reactions were too convenient and unbelievable (no indecision, feelings, whatsoever). It felt like a watered down version of The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare - and I almost feel guilty making that comparison since Dare is on a whole other level than Mariel. Overall, this story is so flat and reads like it could've been written by someone who just didn't have much time. I've read stories in ao3 that have more depth, better plot and pacing, and more believable characters.

[Amy Mannette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great steamy romance with unique storyline. The characters are great and really have you to rooting for them to make their marriage of convenience a success.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable story. 4☆

[DENISE I. · Rating 4 out of 5]

nice read

I needed a short nice read and this was it! No angst. No mystery or down the rabbit hole misunderstandings. Easy love match. Easy forgiveness.
Short and sweet.

[Rebekah Carulli Hanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent

Leo a former soldier comes home from war and finds out his whole family was wiped out in a carriage accident. He also is betrayed when his fiancée weds his brother. Disillusioned and angry he decides to marry a stranger in order to protect his heart.
Emmaline (sp.?) was hurt by a rogue and didn’t want to open her heart up again until her mother decides to marry her to a man older than her father. She goes to the Lyon’s Den to seek the matchmakers help. As she is leaving the two meet.
All is not as easy as they thought it would be when feelings are aroused. They both learn that when love starts talking you’ve got no choice but to shut up and listen it’s a powerful voice.
Another great story by an excellent authoress!

[Tiffany P · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love heals……….

This short novella was about betrayal, forgiveness, and finding trust. Leo and Emeline were both hurt in the past and afraid to be hurt again. She fell first and was determined to make this marriage of convenience real. Once he realized what life would be like without her, Leo realized his feelings. Once she helped him forgive what he thought was betrayal in the past, his heart was fully healed and they got their HEA. This was a bit different than the normal stories because the Lyon’s Den and Bessie wasn’t really involved.

[Linda S Beck · Rating 5 out of 5]

She fell in love with her Lyon

I am a fan of Amanda. I have read a lot of her books. This one is about Leo and Emmaline. She fell in love with Leo right away, Leo was closed off because of a tragedy in his past. Emmaline had to work to find out what it was so they could have a HEA.

[Ann Morrill · Rating 2 out of 5]

Try doing some research before attempting historical romance!

I do wish that American authors would get it into their heads that the only place you could get married in England in the 19th and early 20th centuries was In Church and only in daylight hours. Everything else goes downhill after that.

[Angela Harriman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely and sweet

A true love story. No villain, just some misunderstandings and stubbornness. Well written, nice flow, even pace. I couldn't put it down. Loved the climax and thoroughly enjoyed the ending. Very nice.

[Susan Hopper · Rating 5 out of 5]

love lost, love found.

This is a happily ever after story, that start and ends with love. Not the same love but new forgiving and hopeful love.