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Sinful Brides #4
Prevara dedinje
Lady Eve Pruitt ni nikoli pozabila prijatelja iz otroštva, mladega žeparja Caluma, za katerega se je bala, da je končal na vislicah. Zdaj, leta kasneje, je Eve tista, ki se je znašla v nevarnosti. Njen brat je namreč obupan zaradi velikih izgub denarja pri igrah na srečo, zato ji grozi, da se bo polastil njene dediščine.
Eve tako nima nobene druge možnosti, kot da pobegne. Pod izmišljenim imenom si poišče delo v zloglasnem klubu Pekel in greh. A kot damo je v tem zanikrnem brlogu nič ne šokira bolj kot dejstvo, da je njen delodajalec nihče drug kot prav Calum.
Če svojo pravo identiteto brez težav skriva pred njim, pa je skrivanje še kako živih čustev do njega veliko težji zalogaj. Ko razkrinkajo njeno igro skrivalnic, jo čaka najtežja naloga: dokazati, da njena želja po njem ni prevara.
Eve tako nima nobene druge možnosti, kot da pobegne. Pod izmišljenim imenom si poišče delo v zloglasnem klubu Pekel in greh. A kot damo je v tem zanikrnem brlogu nič ne šokira bolj kot dejstvo, da je njen delodajalec nihče drug kot prav Calum.
Če svojo pravo identiteto brez težav skriva pred njim, pa je skrivanje še kako živih čustev do njega veliko težji zalogaj. Ko razkrinkajo njeno igro skrivalnic, jo čaka najtežja naloga: dokazati, da njena želja po njem ni prevara.
376 pages, Hardcover
First published December 12, 2017
750 people are currently reading
1092 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
136 books2,557 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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November 26, 2017
Childhood best friends! My everlasting catnip!
A FAMILY SCATTERED
And then there were two. We started this journey at the notorious Hell and Sin Club in St. Giles with five street hardened club owners. There was Ryker Black, his sister, Helena Banbury, his brothers, Niall Marksman, Calum Dabney and Adair Thorne. We immediately lost Helena Banbury in THE ROGUE'S WAGER to the ton when she became the Duchess of Somerset. Ryker Black in THE SCOUNDREL'S HONOR followed quickly on her heels by being elevated to the peerage and entering into a scandalous marriage by accidental compromise. One year later, Niall Marksman in THE LADY'S GUARD married a duke's disgraced daughter. Now Calum and Adair are left to manage an empire that had been set up to be run by five. What could possibly go wrong? Oh, everything.
SEPARATED BY BETRAYAL
This is Calum's story. Like his brothers and sister, Calum grew up on the streets. Similar to the others, he did what he had to in order to survive. Calum had one thing that they did not. A closely guarded secret. Calum had a friend. An inadvertent betrayal ripped them asunder and threatened Calum's very life.
Calum's life experiences created a dichotomy. Although he is just as tough as his siblings, there has always been a foundation of goodness to him. This shone through in the other books and is magnified here. He is the most self aware to date of the protagonists in this series.
WHO AM I?
Lady Eve Pruitt is not your typical pampered and coddled daughter and sister of a duke. She carries the weight and responsibilities of the dukedom's finances on her shoulders. Her profligate brother has bankrupted the duchy and now he wants her inheritance and is determined to have it by any means necessary. What can she do but run and hide in a scandalous gaming hell posing as a mousy, malodorous bookkeeper?
I applauded Eve's efforts to escape her brother's diabolical clutches. Her crazy disguise. Her initiative and bravery despite her innate fears. Her ridiculous alias!
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
Adair Thorne is coming into his own as a character and I cannot wait to read his upcoming story. Helena and Robert Dennington, the Duke and Duchess of Somerset make an appearance. Kit Pruitt, second son and Home Office agent, seems like a hero in the making. Plus, with the elder brother that he has it would not terribly surprise me if he didn't inherit a failing duchy in the near future.
THE WRITING
Now this is a Christi Caldwell masterpiece! I tried to categorize my reactions as I read this story. There were the inevitable awwww moments when it was apparent that childhood remembrances informed adult decisions. The impending danger to Eve and consequently the club for unknowingly harboring her and aiding and abetting her, made me shudder throughout the story. Despite the heavy background story, there were lighthearted moments that induced peals of laughter.
This is Book Four of THE SINFUL BRIDES series, and my favorite to date of this series for an obvious reason. In my opinion, all of the components gelled to make a cohesive whole.
I don't know what will happen with the Hell and Sin Club at this point, but for me it was never about the gaming hell from the beginning. As far as I was concerned, Penelope ruined the club in Book Two and its ultimate demise was a foregone conclusion. No, my focus has always been on the couples and getting to HEA. Mission Accomplished!
I was happy to receive an ARC of this work. My review represents my honest opinion.
A FAMILY SCATTERED
And then there were two. We started this journey at the notorious Hell and Sin Club in St. Giles with five street hardened club owners. There was Ryker Black, his sister, Helena Banbury, his brothers, Niall Marksman, Calum Dabney and Adair Thorne. We immediately lost Helena Banbury in THE ROGUE'S WAGER to the ton when she became the Duchess of Somerset. Ryker Black in THE SCOUNDREL'S HONOR followed quickly on her heels by being elevated to the peerage and entering into a scandalous marriage by accidental compromise. One year later, Niall Marksman in THE LADY'S GUARD married a duke's disgraced daughter. Now Calum and Adair are left to manage an empire that had been set up to be run by five. What could possibly go wrong? Oh, everything.
SEPARATED BY BETRAYAL
This is Calum's story. Like his brothers and sister, Calum grew up on the streets. Similar to the others, he did what he had to in order to survive. Calum had one thing that they did not. A closely guarded secret. Calum had a friend. An inadvertent betrayal ripped them asunder and threatened Calum's very life.
Calum's life experiences created a dichotomy. Although he is just as tough as his siblings, there has always been a foundation of goodness to him. This shone through in the other books and is magnified here. He is the most self aware to date of the protagonists in this series.
WHO AM I?
Lady Eve Pruitt is not your typical pampered and coddled daughter and sister of a duke. She carries the weight and responsibilities of the dukedom's finances on her shoulders. Her profligate brother has bankrupted the duchy and now he wants her inheritance and is determined to have it by any means necessary. What can she do but run and hide in a scandalous gaming hell posing as a mousy, malodorous bookkeeper?
I applauded Eve's efforts to escape her brother's diabolical clutches. Her crazy disguise. Her initiative and bravery despite her innate fears. Her ridiculous alias!
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
Adair Thorne is coming into his own as a character and I cannot wait to read his upcoming story. Helena and Robert Dennington, the Duke and Duchess of Somerset make an appearance. Kit Pruitt, second son and Home Office agent, seems like a hero in the making. Plus, with the elder brother that he has it would not terribly surprise me if he didn't inherit a failing duchy in the near future.
THE WRITING
Now this is a Christi Caldwell masterpiece! I tried to categorize my reactions as I read this story. There were the inevitable awwww moments when it was apparent that childhood remembrances informed adult decisions. The impending danger to Eve and consequently the club for unknowingly harboring her and aiding and abetting her, made me shudder throughout the story. Despite the heavy background story, there were lighthearted moments that induced peals of laughter.
This is Book Four of THE SINFUL BRIDES series, and my favorite to date of this series for an obvious reason. In my opinion, all of the components gelled to make a cohesive whole.
I don't know what will happen with the Hell and Sin Club at this point, but for me it was never about the gaming hell from the beginning. As far as I was concerned, Penelope ruined the club in Book Two and its ultimate demise was a foregone conclusion. No, my focus has always been on the couples and getting to HEA. Mission Accomplished!
I was happy to receive an ARC of this work. My review represents my honest opinion.
November 28, 2017
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4
Series: Sinful Brides #4
Publication Date: 12/12/17
Lovely fourth book in the Sinful Brides series. Calum has always been my favorite of the ‘brothers’ and I was really looking forward to his book and his HEA. As it turns out, it is my least favorite book in the series. I enjoyed it, but not as much as the first three. The end just felt rushed and the solution with the missing brother just felt too fortuitous and then there was nothing else about him. I’d like to explain, but I don’t want to put spoilers in this review.
The story is solidly written, stays on-point and makes you like the main characters and dislike this villain. I always enjoy this author’s writing.
I have a complaint, but I don’t know whether to point it toward this book or the series. I am left feeling ‘unfinished’. According to the burb on the Goodreads page, this is the last book in the series: “In the final installment of USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell’s Sinful Brides series, a runaway heiress entrusts her fate to the man she betrayed.” So, we are now left with several things that should have been wrapped up – in my humble opinion. Adair is the fifth ‘sibling’, yet he didn’t get a book – say what? There is no settling of what happens to the Hell and Sin Club. Does it shut down? Does it recover and thrive? Do the ‘siblings’ come back there to live in and run the club? I am hoping that the blurb on Goodreads is incorrect and that there will be a final book that will feature Adair and wrap-up all of the loose ends with the club, etc. Maybe with a lovely epilogue three or four years down the road showing all of the families happily gathered for a celebration of some sort. **** UPDATE**** 11/28/17 -- Adair gets his own book in a new series coming in 2018. YAY! Didn't keep me from feeling 'unfinished' in this book, but I love that he is getting his book and wrapping up those loose ends.
Lady Eve Pruitt has always been a very lonely, forgotten and overlooked motherless daughter of a Duke. Her father did love her but ignored her after his wife died. Her next oldest brother, Kit, is away most of the time but spends time with her on the very rare occasions when he is home. Her oldest brother, Graham, is cruel and sadistic and does some gosh-awful things to Eve. Eve has survived it all, but when Graham sets Eve up to be raped, she knows she has to escape. She only has to be in hiding for three months because when she turns twenty-six, she comes into her inheritance and can make a life for herself. It is amazing that Eve has remained as sweet, considerate and caring as she has given all of the things her brother has done to her.
Calum was born in a loving home. His father was a merchant and both parents doted on Calum. However, when he was five, both parents died within just a couple of months of each other. Calum ended up in a foundling hospital where he was beaten regularly – until he decided that living on the streets was preferable. So, he escaped and became a very adept pickpocket. If you read the earlier books you know the story of how the ‘siblings’ came together and what they’ve been through up to this point. Calum was the one in the group who kept his love and kindness. Oh, he could be hard and mean, but underneath, he cared for others.
Calum and Eve had a history. She blamed herself for his death and he blamed her for her betrayal. When Calum was fourteen and Eve was nine they met in the stables on her father’s townhouse property. They spent a year meeting off-and-on and became fast friends. Eve was so thrilled to have a friend – someone who actually saw her and spoke with her as an equal. Calum liked spending time with the little girl, reading books and learning the constellations, etc. When Calum was stabbed, he sought refuge in those stables. Eve was terrified and sought help from the one person she should not have trusted. Calum ended up in Newgate, bound for the hangman’s noose.
Another issue I have is that Eve’s brother isn’t dealt with at all. There isn’t even any public censure must less punishment of any kind. I would have been satisfied if he’d just fallen off his horse and broken his neck. Maybe something along the lines of Calum calling in all of his debts and then he and Eve living in one of the estates. I don’t know – just something.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence
Series: Sinful Brides #4
Publication Date: 12/12/17
Lovely fourth book in the Sinful Brides series. Calum has always been my favorite of the ‘brothers’ and I was really looking forward to his book and his HEA. As it turns out, it is my least favorite book in the series. I enjoyed it, but not as much as the first three. The end just felt rushed and the solution with the missing brother just felt too fortuitous and then there was nothing else about him. I’d like to explain, but I don’t want to put spoilers in this review.
The story is solidly written, stays on-point and makes you like the main characters and dislike this villain. I always enjoy this author’s writing.
I have a complaint, but I don’t know whether to point it toward this book or the series. I am left feeling ‘unfinished’. According to the burb on the Goodreads page, this is the last book in the series: “In the final installment of USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell’s Sinful Brides series, a runaway heiress entrusts her fate to the man she betrayed.” So, we are now left with several things that should have been wrapped up – in my humble opinion. Adair is the fifth ‘sibling’, yet he didn’t get a book – say what? There is no settling of what happens to the Hell and Sin Club. Does it shut down? Does it recover and thrive? Do the ‘siblings’ come back there to live in and run the club? I am hoping that the blurb on Goodreads is incorrect and that there will be a final book that will feature Adair and wrap-up all of the loose ends with the club, etc. Maybe with a lovely epilogue three or four years down the road showing all of the families happily gathered for a celebration of some sort. **** UPDATE**** 11/28/17 -- Adair gets his own book in a new series coming in 2018. YAY! Didn't keep me from feeling 'unfinished' in this book, but I love that he is getting his book and wrapping up those loose ends.
Lady Eve Pruitt has always been a very lonely, forgotten and overlooked motherless daughter of a Duke. Her father did love her but ignored her after his wife died. Her next oldest brother, Kit, is away most of the time but spends time with her on the very rare occasions when he is home. Her oldest brother, Graham, is cruel and sadistic and does some gosh-awful things to Eve. Eve has survived it all, but when Graham sets Eve up to be raped, she knows she has to escape. She only has to be in hiding for three months because when she turns twenty-six, she comes into her inheritance and can make a life for herself. It is amazing that Eve has remained as sweet, considerate and caring as she has given all of the things her brother has done to her.
Calum was born in a loving home. His father was a merchant and both parents doted on Calum. However, when he was five, both parents died within just a couple of months of each other. Calum ended up in a foundling hospital where he was beaten regularly – until he decided that living on the streets was preferable. So, he escaped and became a very adept pickpocket. If you read the earlier books you know the story of how the ‘siblings’ came together and what they’ve been through up to this point. Calum was the one in the group who kept his love and kindness. Oh, he could be hard and mean, but underneath, he cared for others.
Calum and Eve had a history. She blamed herself for his death and he blamed her for her betrayal. When Calum was fourteen and Eve was nine they met in the stables on her father’s townhouse property. They spent a year meeting off-and-on and became fast friends. Eve was so thrilled to have a friend – someone who actually saw her and spoke with her as an equal. Calum liked spending time with the little girl, reading books and learning the constellations, etc. When Calum was stabbed, he sought refuge in those stables. Eve was terrified and sought help from the one person she should not have trusted. Calum ended up in Newgate, bound for the hangman’s noose.
Another issue I have is that Eve’s brother isn’t dealt with at all. There isn’t even any public censure must less punishment of any kind. I would have been satisfied if he’d just fallen off his horse and broken his neck. Maybe something along the lines of Calum calling in all of his debts and then he and Eve living in one of the estates. I don’t know – just something.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence
November 28, 2017
Another Great Story in the Sinful Brides Series
Calum and Eve were childhood friends but he doesn't remember her at first when she shows up at the Hell and Sin to hide.
Eve is very sweet but scared of her own shadow because of her mean brother.
Calum has a tough exterior and is like a bull in a china shop but is a sweet puppy dog when Eve is around.
Eve's brother Gerald wants her inheritance due her in three months because he has gambled away all he has. She is hiding because she is afraid of what he will do to her to get it.
This is truly a love story about childhood friends who led tough lives but worked hard to become the good people they grew up to be.
I really enjoyed the final book of this series but wish there was going to be more.
I was thrilled to be gifted an ARC. I hope my review will help others to decide to read this book.
Calum and Eve were childhood friends but he doesn't remember her at first when she shows up at the Hell and Sin to hide.
Eve is very sweet but scared of her own shadow because of her mean brother.
Calum has a tough exterior and is like a bull in a china shop but is a sweet puppy dog when Eve is around.
Eve's brother Gerald wants her inheritance due her in three months because he has gambled away all he has. She is hiding because she is afraid of what he will do to her to get it.
This is truly a love story about childhood friends who led tough lives but worked hard to become the good people they grew up to be.
I really enjoyed the final book of this series but wish there was going to be more.
I was thrilled to be gifted an ARC. I hope my review will help others to decide to read this book.
October 2, 2017
I just didn't feel it for this book. I've loved so many of Caldwell's books, but this just didn't have any magic for me. I'm not sure what was missing, the H and hare both interesting and likeable, but I didn't feel any chemistry or passion. Sorry.
October 2, 2017
I have been captivated by this fabulous series following the men who run one of London’s most notorious gaming hells and the women who defy society by falling in love with them. This fourth book in the series was bittersweet for me. I was elated because it featured Calum who has been my favorite of the gaming hell proprietors. I fell in love with this gentle giant early on in the series and have been anxious to hear his story. I was heartbroken because this book marked the end of the series. I have fallen in love with each and every character in these books and hate to see it end. The only consolation is that any book worth reading is a book worth rereading. Which I’m sure I’ll do repeatedly.
As a boy, Calum Dabney had been one of the best pickpockets in London. Now he was second in command at one of London’s finest gaming hells. He’d committed every crime short of murder to secure the funds necessary to survive and build his empire. His only family was his “brothers” he’d grown up with on the streets of St. Giles, and with whom he now ran the Hell and Sin. He’d never trusted anyone other than his family. Except for once, and that had nearly cost him his life.
Lady Evelina Pruitt had grown up lonely. She had befriended a young boy who often hid out in her family’s stables. Eve had fed and cared for her friend sharing time together discussing all manner of things. He was her dearest friend. Her only friend. She had even considered herself a little in love with him, fascinated by his strength and resilience. But that friendship had been destroyed the night she unwittingly aided in his capture. After that she’d been truly alone. Though she was an heiress with a sizeable fortune, Eve had only had one season before the decline of her father’s health. After his death, she’d been left with her brother, Gerald, a cruel man who’d gambled away the family wealth. “The only funds between Gerald and dun territory were Eve’s monies.” And he’d proven he’d stop at nothing to secure those funds.
In only 3 months, Eve would come into her majority and Gerald would be unable to touch her funds. Until then, she needed to hide where Gerald could never find her. Seeing a post for a bookkeeping position at the Hell and Sin, Eve knew her brother would never venture there as the Hell and Sin held the vowels for her brother’s weakness. They needed help and she needed to hide. It was her only hope. And so, disguised, Eve artfully commandeered the position. But her luck may have run out when she realizes her employer is Calum Dabney, the very boy she’d betrayed years ago. Luckily, Calum didn’t recognize his childhood friend. And in the weeks that followed, Eve settled into her position. She was really quite good at it. Calum was intrigued by Eve. There was an allure of innocence and a hidden beauty about her. She was direct and didn’t cower. “What manner of employer was he hungering after a respectable woman newly employed to his staff?” Eve’s childhood fascination with Calum hadn’t waned in the years they’d been apart. There was a raw primitiveness about him that sent her heart to double time. She was glad to see that not only had he survived, he’d thrived. She was amazed at the kind and giving man he’d become. They forged a friendship all over again. But this time, it was more than just friendship. They were falling in love. But Eve’s brother was escalating his attempts to discover where she was. A discovery that could not only destroy Eve, but could cause the Hell and Sin to topple like a house of cards.
As in every book in this series, The Heiress’s Deception was filled with endearing characters and breathtaking romance. Eve and Calum were two souls destined to be together. After Eve’s unintentional betrayal of Calum, she’d dedicated herself to seeing that other children didn’t suffer the same fate as her friend. She had carried the memory of her friend with her all those years. Calum had thought he’d put that time behind him but it was sweet to see how much of their brief friendship had stayed with him. That time in his youth with Eve had been the only time in his life he’d been allowed to dream rather than only think of survival. I loved watching their friendship and love form anew. The things they loved about each other went beyond the physical. They both appreciated the kindness and selflessness of the other, even if they didn’t see those qualities in themselves.
The relationship between Adair and Calum was especially compelling in this book. I worried that their friendship might not survive. Calum faced the hardest decision of his life and Adair could not grasp the sacrifice he was expecting Calum to make. I hope Adair is in a future book. I really want to see him find love so he can appreciate the choices his brothers made.
The entire series and this book in particular does an excellent job of showing the injustices of the time period. The unequal treatment of women and children especially. So many people depended on the Hell and Sin for their survival. The hell offered women and children opportunities they wouldn’t find anywhere else. Also, the snobbery of the ton. How high society was eager to patronize the Hell and Sin but God forbid the proprietors ever assume to enter their world. This book really made me appreciate the risk these couples took when they chose love.
There were light moments in the story to offset some of the darker elements. I got such a kick out of people’s reactions to Eve’s hair dye. And I always love the joking manner among the men at the club. And, as in any Christi Caldwell book, the development of the romance is magical with just the right amount of heat. I’m not ready for this series to end. I’m hoping it segues into another series that includes many of these characters. I still need to know about Adair and Killoran. I’d also love to see more of Eve’s mysterious brother Kit and her friend Nurse Mattison. So many possibilities! But Christi Caldwell is the master of storytelling so I’m sure I need not worry. I know whatever follows will be just as enchanting as this series has been. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team selection.
As a boy, Calum Dabney had been one of the best pickpockets in London. Now he was second in command at one of London’s finest gaming hells. He’d committed every crime short of murder to secure the funds necessary to survive and build his empire. His only family was his “brothers” he’d grown up with on the streets of St. Giles, and with whom he now ran the Hell and Sin. He’d never trusted anyone other than his family. Except for once, and that had nearly cost him his life.
Lady Evelina Pruitt had grown up lonely. She had befriended a young boy who often hid out in her family’s stables. Eve had fed and cared for her friend sharing time together discussing all manner of things. He was her dearest friend. Her only friend. She had even considered herself a little in love with him, fascinated by his strength and resilience. But that friendship had been destroyed the night she unwittingly aided in his capture. After that she’d been truly alone. Though she was an heiress with a sizeable fortune, Eve had only had one season before the decline of her father’s health. After his death, she’d been left with her brother, Gerald, a cruel man who’d gambled away the family wealth. “The only funds between Gerald and dun territory were Eve’s monies.” And he’d proven he’d stop at nothing to secure those funds.
In only 3 months, Eve would come into her majority and Gerald would be unable to touch her funds. Until then, she needed to hide where Gerald could never find her. Seeing a post for a bookkeeping position at the Hell and Sin, Eve knew her brother would never venture there as the Hell and Sin held the vowels for her brother’s weakness. They needed help and she needed to hide. It was her only hope. And so, disguised, Eve artfully commandeered the position. But her luck may have run out when she realizes her employer is Calum Dabney, the very boy she’d betrayed years ago. Luckily, Calum didn’t recognize his childhood friend. And in the weeks that followed, Eve settled into her position. She was really quite good at it. Calum was intrigued by Eve. There was an allure of innocence and a hidden beauty about her. She was direct and didn’t cower. “What manner of employer was he hungering after a respectable woman newly employed to his staff?” Eve’s childhood fascination with Calum hadn’t waned in the years they’d been apart. There was a raw primitiveness about him that sent her heart to double time. She was glad to see that not only had he survived, he’d thrived. She was amazed at the kind and giving man he’d become. They forged a friendship all over again. But this time, it was more than just friendship. They were falling in love. But Eve’s brother was escalating his attempts to discover where she was. A discovery that could not only destroy Eve, but could cause the Hell and Sin to topple like a house of cards.
As in every book in this series, The Heiress’s Deception was filled with endearing characters and breathtaking romance. Eve and Calum were two souls destined to be together. After Eve’s unintentional betrayal of Calum, she’d dedicated herself to seeing that other children didn’t suffer the same fate as her friend. She had carried the memory of her friend with her all those years. Calum had thought he’d put that time behind him but it was sweet to see how much of their brief friendship had stayed with him. That time in his youth with Eve had been the only time in his life he’d been allowed to dream rather than only think of survival. I loved watching their friendship and love form anew. The things they loved about each other went beyond the physical. They both appreciated the kindness and selflessness of the other, even if they didn’t see those qualities in themselves.
The relationship between Adair and Calum was especially compelling in this book. I worried that their friendship might not survive. Calum faced the hardest decision of his life and Adair could not grasp the sacrifice he was expecting Calum to make. I hope Adair is in a future book. I really want to see him find love so he can appreciate the choices his brothers made.
The entire series and this book in particular does an excellent job of showing the injustices of the time period. The unequal treatment of women and children especially. So many people depended on the Hell and Sin for their survival. The hell offered women and children opportunities they wouldn’t find anywhere else. Also, the snobbery of the ton. How high society was eager to patronize the Hell and Sin but God forbid the proprietors ever assume to enter their world. This book really made me appreciate the risk these couples took when they chose love.
There were light moments in the story to offset some of the darker elements. I got such a kick out of people’s reactions to Eve’s hair dye. And I always love the joking manner among the men at the club. And, as in any Christi Caldwell book, the development of the romance is magical with just the right amount of heat. I’m not ready for this series to end. I’m hoping it segues into another series that includes many of these characters. I still need to know about Adair and Killoran. I’d also love to see more of Eve’s mysterious brother Kit and her friend Nurse Mattison. So many possibilities! But Christi Caldwell is the master of storytelling so I’m sure I need not worry. I know whatever follows will be just as enchanting as this series has been. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team selection.
December 1, 2017
Callum Danby, orphaned son of a merchant, and Little Lena Duchess, daughter of a duke, were one time friends. Back when Callum had to do whatever it took to survive and Little Lena Duchess was a lonely girl; until one night of betrayal that almost cost Callum his life.
Years later, Lady Eve Pruitt is running for her life. In need of a place to hide from the evil planned for her she dons a disguise and takes a position in the Hell and Sin Club. A position that could cost her her heart all over again.
Callum has survived by his instincts and those instincts kick into high gear when the new bookkeeper finagles her way into the position in his club. Despite those misgivings Callum comes to care for the girl but when her identity is uncovered will he listen to his heart or let a past betrayal sever all feelings?
Christi Caldwell continues to amaze with the depth of feelings that she puts into her stories. My heart broke for the child that Callum was and all he lost plus his feelings of betrayal. Ms. Caldwell had my heart racing with Eve’s flight and desperation to stay hidden. Another well done story Ms. Caldwell!
Years later, Lady Eve Pruitt is running for her life. In need of a place to hide from the evil planned for her she dons a disguise and takes a position in the Hell and Sin Club. A position that could cost her her heart all over again.
Callum has survived by his instincts and those instincts kick into high gear when the new bookkeeper finagles her way into the position in his club. Despite those misgivings Callum comes to care for the girl but when her identity is uncovered will he listen to his heart or let a past betrayal sever all feelings?
Christi Caldwell continues to amaze with the depth of feelings that she puts into her stories. My heart broke for the child that Callum was and all he lost plus his feelings of betrayal. Ms. Caldwell had my heart racing with Eve’s flight and desperation to stay hidden. Another well done story Ms. Caldwell!
December 12, 2019
3.5/5. The fourth in the series following the rise of five street urchins to Hell-owners who found family in one another and each finding his/her love from the aristocracy. This is Calum's story, the second-in-command of the Hell. How do we know he is second in command? Because the author repeatedly told us so, like she repeatedly stressed the sibling bond between them to the point of tediousness. Adair was referred to as "his brother" at least 60 times on my word search count and Helena, who only featured in one scene, but was referred to as "his sister" 24 times. That's not even including "brothers" and "siblings". This is a recurring issue I have with Caldwell, and I have read most of her books. Anyway, I digress. Lady Eve Pruitt found herself in dire straits and her safety threatened by her unscrupulous brother, the Duke of Bedford. She sought refuge in a gambling hell, disguised as a book keeper not realising that this particular Hell belongs to Calum, her childhood friend whom she thought dead after she inadvertently betrayed him to her evil brother. Calum did not recognise Eve initially, but he was inexplicably attracted to this strange, slightly malodorous woman (courtesy of her dyed hair). Eve was shocked to see Calum alive after all these years, but she kept her identity hidden, scared that he would turn her away in anger after she caused his near death at the hands of her brother 17 years ago.
Their story just did not move me as it ought to. Not withstanding all the repetitions, Caldwell is a solid writer. I'm not sure, what was missing from this story for me. Perhaps the fact that Eve was only 9 when they met, made it strange for Calum to blame her for her 'betrayal', but the author did not belabor this point, which I appreciated. Perhaps the ending was too abrupt. Calum was a nice person, not a caricaturally tough and embittered man, but tough yet still nice and thoughtful to his fellow beings. Eve too was a lovely heroine, strong and resourceful and never a 'woe me' personality. I will round it up based on the strength of their characters.
This is an ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
Their story just did not move me as it ought to. Not withstanding all the repetitions, Caldwell is a solid writer. I'm not sure, what was missing from this story for me. Perhaps the fact that Eve was only 9 when they met, made it strange for Calum to blame her for her 'betrayal', but the author did not belabor this point, which I appreciated. Perhaps the ending was too abrupt. Calum was a nice person, not a caricaturally tough and embittered man, but tough yet still nice and thoughtful to his fellow beings. Eve too was a lovely heroine, strong and resourceful and never a 'woe me' personality. I will round it up based on the strength of their characters.
This is an ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 29, 2022
3.5 rounded up - I mostly liked the book but the end fell a bit flat and I missed that there was no excitement towards the end. Felt a bit anticlimactic, especially because it was the season “finale”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2022
3.75 stars. Not up to writing a full review. Was good and great finish to this terrific series (though what about Adair?? From Book 3, thought we were going to see a pairing between him and the Killeran (sp?) girl?). Maybe that will be the start of another series ...?
Still deciding whether to put on my 2017 favorite reads list.
Very enjoyable and loved both main characters; was also a nice change to have a hero who grew up rough, is in the gambling hell world, but isn't the rough tortured hero and actually smiles and can be nice and easygoing. I love the brooding and tough-as-diamonds-to-crack hero as much as the next girl, but Calum was a nice, sweet change. (Don't get me wrong; he can be plenty intimidating and is deeply affected by all he's survived).
There was definitely an anti-climactic wrap-up to one of the main plotlines. Caught me completely off-guard and probably resulted in the 4 instead of 4.5 star rating. Overall, a great read though! Eve is a strong and terrific heroine.
Caldwell's Sinful Brides Series
Book 1 — The Rogue's Wager (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Scoundrel's Honor (4 stars)
Book 3 — The Lady's Guard (4-4.5 stars)
Book 4 — The Heiress's Deception (3.75 stars)
Caldwell's Wicked Wallflowers Series
Book 1 — The Hellion (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Vixen (4.5 stars)
Book 3 — The Governess (TBR)
Book 4 — The Bluestocking (4.5 stars)
Book 5 — The Spitfire (TBR)
Other Caldwell Books I've Loved (and Enjoyed Out of Order)
The Lady Who Loved Him (The Brethren, #2) — 4.5 stars
Tempted by a Lady's Smile (Lords of Honor, #4) — 4 stars
To Tempt a Scoundrel (The Heart of a Duke, #15) — 4 stars
Still deciding whether to put on my 2017 favorite reads list.
Very enjoyable and loved both main characters; was also a nice change to have a hero who grew up rough, is in the gambling hell world, but isn't the rough tortured hero and actually smiles and can be nice and easygoing. I love the brooding and tough-as-diamonds-to-crack hero as much as the next girl, but Calum was a nice, sweet change. (Don't get me wrong; he can be plenty intimidating and is deeply affected by all he's survived).
There was definitely an anti-climactic wrap-up to one of the main plotlines. Caught me completely off-guard and probably resulted in the 4 instead of 4.5 star rating. Overall, a great read though! Eve is a strong and terrific heroine.
Caldwell's Sinful Brides Series
Book 1 — The Rogue's Wager (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Scoundrel's Honor (4 stars)
Book 3 — The Lady's Guard (4-4.5 stars)
Book 4 — The Heiress's Deception (3.75 stars)
Caldwell's Wicked Wallflowers Series
Book 1 — The Hellion (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Vixen (4.5 stars)
Book 3 — The Governess (TBR)
Book 4 — The Bluestocking (4.5 stars)
Book 5 — The Spitfire (TBR)
Other Caldwell Books I've Loved (and Enjoyed Out of Order)
The Lady Who Loved Him (The Brethren, #2) — 4.5 stars
Tempted by a Lady's Smile (Lords of Honor, #4) — 4 stars
To Tempt a Scoundrel (The Heart of a Duke, #15) — 4 stars
April 12, 2025
KU. Mad About Series Challenge 2025. HRBC. Tropes: Regency Romance, Heiress, Spinster, Ugly Duckling, Disguise, Work Romance, Class Difference, Family/Friends.
MC's h L. Evelina Pruitt, 25 almost 26, spinster, brother's Gerald (evil wastrel), Kit, works for Home Office (Spy), supports Foundling Orphanages and is hiding out at the Hell and Sin Club as a bookeeper. H. Colum Dabney, 30+, part owner of the Hell and Sin Club along with his brothers and sister: Ryker, Niall, Adair & Helena. They employ 379 people to run the Gaming Hell. Colum is in charge along with Adair while Ryker and Niall are away with their wives.
Comments: This story was a story of love and forgiveness with many years of bad feelings on both the MC's parts. Adair and Colum are running the club. Helena is in the story twice and her husband Robert and their son are in it. Ryker and Niall are mentioned but not in the story. All 4 of the siblings are now married except for Adair. His story is next in the Wicked Wallflower series " The Hellion".
I had hoped that there might have been some negotiating on Colum and Gerald's opposing sides, like marrying Eve and forgiving some of Gerald's gaming debt, a duel or something more dramatic. It was nice that Kit came home and rescued his sister from their evil brother Gerald though.
*****************************************************************************
MC's h L. Evelina Pruitt, 25 almost 26, spinster, brother's Gerald (evil wastrel), Kit, works for Home Office (Spy), supports Foundling Orphanages and is hiding out at the Hell and Sin Club as a bookeeper. H. Colum Dabney, 30+, part owner of the Hell and Sin Club along with his brothers and sister: Ryker, Niall, Adair & Helena. They employ 379 people to run the Gaming Hell. Colum is in charge along with Adair while Ryker and Niall are away with their wives.
Comments: This story was a story of love and forgiveness with many years of bad feelings on both the MC's parts. Adair and Colum are running the club. Helena is in the story twice and her husband Robert and their son are in it. Ryker and Niall are mentioned but not in the story. All 4 of the siblings are now married except for Adair. His story is next in the Wicked Wallflower series " The Hellion".
I had hoped that there might have been some negotiating on Colum and Gerald's opposing sides, like marrying Eve and forgiving some of Gerald's gaming debt, a duel or something more dramatic. It was nice that Kit came home and rescued his sister from their evil brother Gerald though.
*****************************************************************************
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2017
Finally Calum’s book!
This much awaited fourth and last book of the Sinful Brides series is undoubtedly the best story of all the ‘brothers’. Calum Dabney has always been a personal favourite throughout the series. He has been warm, kind hearted and loyal. So it is no wonder that his was the story that one waited the most for.
And as usual Christi did not disappoint. And as usual, it was a speed read through the night and at the cost of being repetitive, as usual, another book that you cannot put down.
Only one word comes to mind to describe this story, and that is ‘beautiful’. It has to be the most beautiful love story, of love, loss, betrayal, sacrifice, guilt and honour. The unconditional love that blossoms inside a gaming hell, between two people, who have faced abuse, betrayal, hatred and prejudice, is most beautifully crafted by Christi.
While Calum had been growing as a much loved character through the series, he finally takes ‘shape’ in this his own book and one cannot but help fall a little bit more in love with him. I loved him as Helena’s young ‘brother’ who held her through her nightmares, and I loved him a second time around when I burst into involuntary tears in the mews when he held a sobbing Eve and assuaged her guilt.
Evie was a goddess of a heroine. She was compassionate, she was loving, forgiving and all that is perfect. She lived through hell of a different kind, and yet found it in herself to give more, forgive more and love more. A lady with a flair of numbers, a bookkeeper who did not love math but mastered it for her own requirement. She was a perfect heroine in every way.
And such was the love story, so complete in itself. It was not a chore to read through to the end and I do say that is was worth the wait ... for Calum's turn that is.
As always, I leave the book, wondering about Kit. Do we add him to our growing list of ‘he-needs-a-story’? Can I?
This much awaited fourth and last book of the Sinful Brides series is undoubtedly the best story of all the ‘brothers’. Calum Dabney has always been a personal favourite throughout the series. He has been warm, kind hearted and loyal. So it is no wonder that his was the story that one waited the most for.
And as usual Christi did not disappoint. And as usual, it was a speed read through the night and at the cost of being repetitive, as usual, another book that you cannot put down.
Only one word comes to mind to describe this story, and that is ‘beautiful’. It has to be the most beautiful love story, of love, loss, betrayal, sacrifice, guilt and honour. The unconditional love that blossoms inside a gaming hell, between two people, who have faced abuse, betrayal, hatred and prejudice, is most beautifully crafted by Christi.
While Calum had been growing as a much loved character through the series, he finally takes ‘shape’ in this his own book and one cannot but help fall a little bit more in love with him. I loved him as Helena’s young ‘brother’ who held her through her nightmares, and I loved him a second time around when I burst into involuntary tears in the mews when he held a sobbing Eve and assuaged her guilt.
Evie was a goddess of a heroine. She was compassionate, she was loving, forgiving and all that is perfect. She lived through hell of a different kind, and yet found it in herself to give more, forgive more and love more. A lady with a flair of numbers, a bookkeeper who did not love math but mastered it for her own requirement. She was a perfect heroine in every way.
And such was the love story, so complete in itself. It was not a chore to read through to the end and I do say that is was worth the wait ... for Calum's turn that is.
As always, I leave the book, wondering about Kit. Do we add him to our growing list of ‘he-needs-a-story’? Can I?
September 30, 2017
"The Heiress's Deception" by Christi Caldwell is Book Four in The "Sinful Brides" series. This is the story of Lady Eve Pruitt and Calum. I have read the other books in this series (and Loved Them!!!) but feel this can easily be a stand alone book.
Eve was a lonely girl growing up and found a friend in Calum who lived on the streets and had to pick pockets to survive. Calum would come to her stables and she would give him food and they would talk. Eve was around 9 years old and Calum was a teenage book. But one day Calum was picked the wrong pocked and was hurt badly. But when Eve thought she was doing right by letting her brother know Calum was hurt he was instead carted off to prison. Eve assume he died and always carried the guilt of it. Well now in the their present day Eve's older brother that she was somewhat close to is missing. But Eve's other older brother who turned her friend in and is also a evil gambling man who has awful plans for Eve. So she escapes and goes to the Hell and Sin Club to hide out as an account there. Eve finds that Calum is alive and is part owner operator of the club. Eve tries to keep her identity secrets from Calum and hide from her brother.
I am so in love with this series! I quickly had to read and finish this book as soon as I got it! This book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Eve was a lonely girl growing up and found a friend in Calum who lived on the streets and had to pick pockets to survive. Calum would come to her stables and she would give him food and they would talk. Eve was around 9 years old and Calum was a teenage book. But one day Calum was picked the wrong pocked and was hurt badly. But when Eve thought she was doing right by letting her brother know Calum was hurt he was instead carted off to prison. Eve assume he died and always carried the guilt of it. Well now in the their present day Eve's older brother that she was somewhat close to is missing. But Eve's other older brother who turned her friend in and is also a evil gambling man who has awful plans for Eve. So she escapes and goes to the Hell and Sin Club to hide out as an account there. Eve finds that Calum is alive and is part owner operator of the club. Eve tries to keep her identity secrets from Calum and hide from her brother.
I am so in love with this series! I quickly had to read and finish this book as soon as I got it! This book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
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October 14, 2017
Here we have Eve being forced into a dire situation by her greedy and cruel brother, a bit of a worthless bum, I would say. She chooses her survival arena out of desperation, a gaming hell one of the worst places she would ever go but never say never, her life depended on it. To be betrayed by one's brother is unthinkable for Eve but if she didn’t escape life as she knows it would come to a crashing end. Finding the one person she thought she had unwittingly caused his death, was akin to your heart being ripped out and put back in. This is an amazingly enriching and intriguing book, the storyline is absolutely beautiful which peeks at your interest at every turn, the characters are also excellent, together they present a captivating and interesting package. This is a must read, that holds you captive until the very end.
December 2, 2017
This is the finally book in this wonderful series and I have to say I am very sad to see it end I could keep reading on this dark side of London that Christi Caldwell created. In book 4 we meet childhood friends Calum Dabrey and Eve Pruitt. Calum came to her when he needed help has a young boy but feels Eve betrayal him in a scary time of his life. Years later when they are older Eve needs helps now and comes to hide where Calum works seeking a job to hide from her evil brother. Calum and Eve are two very lonely people who really pulled at my heart strings. Eve thinking her childhood friend was dead that care for so much and Calum who thought is childhood friend he care for betrayal him. Can these two loss lonely friends who deep down love each other forgive each other when they found each other again? Or will Eve evil brother Gerald horrible plans for her tear them apart before they can forgive each other and make things right between them. Will love win out for our sweet couple ? Calum acts like a big stuff, mean guy with growing up on the dark side of London but really he is a big lovable man that you want to hug. Eve is a sweet caring lady that helps others even with her life being terrible with her evil brother and the disappearance of her favorite brother Kit. Don't miss this amazing book I adore this couple and their story so sad that it ended what so much more of them.
I was happy to be gifted an ARC on Netgalley and hope my review helps other as to read it.
I was happy to be gifted an ARC on Netgalley and hope my review helps other as to read it.
November 28, 2017
Christi Caldwell has done it again! Not only does she tell an amazing story but it brought me to tears - first because it was so sad and then because it turned out so happy. This is the 4th book i the Sinful Brides series. All of these stories involve the owners of the Hell and Sin Gambling Hell. The 5 owners grew up in the street together and became a family. Now, one by one, they are each finding love.
In this story, Callum hires a female bookkeeper who is hiding from her brother. When she applied for the job, Eve didn't know that she would be working for the young boy who had hidden in their stables when she was a little girl. She had brought him food and books but when he had shown up injured and called her brother to help - her brother had him hauled away to Newgate and told her he had been hanged.
Even though he doesn't realize who she is - they can't deny their feelings for each other. But, when her brother finds out where she has been hiding he threatens to ruin the club's reputation. Callum must choose between protecting the woman he loves or the club he has built with his family. For her part, Eve will sacrifice herself to protect Callum and his family from her brother's threats.
As the two tuggle with their feelings and their duty you can only hope they will see their way to a Happily Ever After. Christi Caldwell never disappoints in the end. While all the books in this series are good this one is more touching because the hero is more open to love.
I received a free copy of this book.
In this story, Callum hires a female bookkeeper who is hiding from her brother. When she applied for the job, Eve didn't know that she would be working for the young boy who had hidden in their stables when she was a little girl. She had brought him food and books but when he had shown up injured and called her brother to help - her brother had him hauled away to Newgate and told her he had been hanged.
Even though he doesn't realize who she is - they can't deny their feelings for each other. But, when her brother finds out where she has been hiding he threatens to ruin the club's reputation. Callum must choose between protecting the woman he loves or the club he has built with his family. For her part, Eve will sacrifice herself to protect Callum and his family from her brother's threats.
As the two tuggle with their feelings and their duty you can only hope they will see their way to a Happily Ever After. Christi Caldwell never disappoints in the end. While all the books in this series are good this one is more touching because the hero is more open to love.
I received a free copy of this book.
November 30, 2017
In this 4th book of The Sinful Brides Series we have the much anticipated story of Calum Dabney. Calum is one of four "brothers of the streets" who rose from the gutters of St. Giles to become owners and proprietors of one of the most successful gaming hells in London, the Hell and Sin Club. Each in this series can be read as a stand alone, but after the initial introduction to the amazing characters in the Hell and Sin world, there is no stopping at one.
This writer's amazing talent shines in all of her works, but I especially loved her development of Calum, Eve, and their story. He is a strong, honorable, bear of a man, with a kind heart and good to the core. She is a strong, compassionate woman, a duke's daughter, on the run from her evil brother. With the brief history between Eve and Calum in their youth, and then when their paths cross again, the emotions are so real and believable. A beautiful and touching story of two individuals so caring and giving, despite so much horror and hurt in their lives. Both strong and independent, but silently needing the other. Will they find their HEA as evil again threatens, old feelings resurface, truths are revealed, and two hearts come together? I highly recommend what I find to be another favorite of Christi Caldwell's.
I was happy to receive an ARC of this book.
This writer's amazing talent shines in all of her works, but I especially loved her development of Calum, Eve, and their story. He is a strong, honorable, bear of a man, with a kind heart and good to the core. She is a strong, compassionate woman, a duke's daughter, on the run from her evil brother. With the brief history between Eve and Calum in their youth, and then when their paths cross again, the emotions are so real and believable. A beautiful and touching story of two individuals so caring and giving, despite so much horror and hurt in their lives. Both strong and independent, but silently needing the other. Will they find their HEA as evil again threatens, old feelings resurface, truths are revealed, and two hearts come together? I highly recommend what I find to be another favorite of Christi Caldwell's.
I was happy to receive an ARC of this book.
November 28, 2017
Yet another great story
The hieress's deception takes forward the Hell ans Sin series since we last met Niall and Diana.
Truth be told I wasn't a fan of this series as much as I loved Christi Caldwell's "Heart of the Duke" series and other stories. Hell and Sin was simply too dark.
This book is dark as well. But still I connected to Eve and Calum like I've connected with no one else in this series thus far.
Calum is the first hero in the series who wasn't always a rugrat. Eve is the first heroine in this book who came to the book thoroughly unloved. And therein lies the novelty of the book.
Two kindred spirits. Lonely. Broken by life. In desperate need of help.
How they find their HEA is an amazing story.
From chapter one you'll root for Eve to triumph over the evil she's known. But don't mistake her for a damsel in distress. She's as tough as nails as a streetborn fighter.
Calum has known only darkness in his life. He's been betrayed by the only lady he trusted. But hes no dark rogue. He instead strives to make lives better.
And thus the tale of two beautiful, broken but strong people happens!
Pick this book up to see how it all comes together . You wont regret it.
The hieress's deception takes forward the Hell ans Sin series since we last met Niall and Diana.
Truth be told I wasn't a fan of this series as much as I loved Christi Caldwell's "Heart of the Duke" series and other stories. Hell and Sin was simply too dark.
This book is dark as well. But still I connected to Eve and Calum like I've connected with no one else in this series thus far.
Calum is the first hero in the series who wasn't always a rugrat. Eve is the first heroine in this book who came to the book thoroughly unloved. And therein lies the novelty of the book.
Two kindred spirits. Lonely. Broken by life. In desperate need of help.
How they find their HEA is an amazing story.
From chapter one you'll root for Eve to triumph over the evil she's known. But don't mistake her for a damsel in distress. She's as tough as nails as a streetborn fighter.
Calum has known only darkness in his life. He's been betrayed by the only lady he trusted. But hes no dark rogue. He instead strives to make lives better.
And thus the tale of two beautiful, broken but strong people happens!
Pick this book up to see how it all comes together . You wont regret it.
October 8, 2017
The Heiress’s Deception ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️by Christi Caldwell
(Sinful Brides #4)
As children Calum Dabney and Evelina Pruitt meet serendipitously. Calum in a young pickpocket boy of the streets and Evelina is the daughter of a Duke. It is when Calum seeks shelter and food in the stables owned by her father that their friendship develops. Calum lives by the laws of the streets he never trusted anyone except his brothers of the streets.
When Calum appears one night at the stables gravely ill, he had been stabbed while pickpocketing a peer. Lina tries to help him but realizes she cannot and gets her brother Gerald. As luck would have it, Calum had pickpocketed a watch from Gerald. When Gerald see him he beats him and sends him off to Newgate prison.
As the years passed, Calum always felt Lina had betrayed him and Lina also felt she unwittingly had. When Lina’s father dies, Gerard becomes more unreasonable and gambles away the family fortunes. It is when Lina comes of age she will inherit her funds which Gerard wants to control. He has become abusive and debased I his treatment of her.
Lina escapes to find a position a bookkeeper in the Hell and Sin Club. She disguises herself changing her hair and wearing drab clothing and spectacles. However, when she enters the club she has no idea one of the proprietors is Calum. She immediately recognizes him and has mixed feelings of love and fears for what he believes. Calum finds her a conundrum just not fitting the person she is trying to portray.
As they begin to work together, the closeness begins to develop. The conversation between them seem so genuine you are in awe of the author’s ability to see so deep into their souls. I have read all the books in this series and I have enjoyed each one completely.
Ms Caldwell is to be admired for her deep analysis of each characters. She peels alway the lies, the truth and uncovers the souls of each one.
(Sinful Brides #4)
As children Calum Dabney and Evelina Pruitt meet serendipitously. Calum in a young pickpocket boy of the streets and Evelina is the daughter of a Duke. It is when Calum seeks shelter and food in the stables owned by her father that their friendship develops. Calum lives by the laws of the streets he never trusted anyone except his brothers of the streets.
When Calum appears one night at the stables gravely ill, he had been stabbed while pickpocketing a peer. Lina tries to help him but realizes she cannot and gets her brother Gerald. As luck would have it, Calum had pickpocketed a watch from Gerald. When Gerald see him he beats him and sends him off to Newgate prison.
As the years passed, Calum always felt Lina had betrayed him and Lina also felt she unwittingly had. When Lina’s father dies, Gerard becomes more unreasonable and gambles away the family fortunes. It is when Lina comes of age she will inherit her funds which Gerard wants to control. He has become abusive and debased I his treatment of her.
Lina escapes to find a position a bookkeeper in the Hell and Sin Club. She disguises herself changing her hair and wearing drab clothing and spectacles. However, when she enters the club she has no idea one of the proprietors is Calum. She immediately recognizes him and has mixed feelings of love and fears for what he believes. Calum finds her a conundrum just not fitting the person she is trying to portray.
As they begin to work together, the closeness begins to develop. The conversation between them seem so genuine you are in awe of the author’s ability to see so deep into their souls. I have read all the books in this series and I have enjoyed each one completely.
Ms Caldwell is to be admired for her deep analysis of each characters. She peels alway the lies, the truth and uncovers the souls of each one.
October 12, 2017
Christi Caldwell continues to prove to me why she has become one of my FAVORITES in historical romance. I thought The Heiress's Deception was a great finally to the Sinful Bride series.
Mr. Calum Dabney and Lady Evelina Pruitt met first as children. Calum, an orphan of the streets and a thief. Eve, the privileged daughter of a Duke. Through random meeting in her father's stables they embarked on an unlikely friendship. Though, through certain circumstances....Eve is left believing Calum is dead and Calum is left believing Eve is a traitor.
Years Later,
Lady Eve is in dire straights. Her beloved brother, Kit, is missing and her eldest brother, Gerald, now a Duke is severely in debt from gambling and mistresses. Eve needs an escape if she want to keep her inheritance safe and reluctantly takes a job as a bookkeeper at the Hell and Sin Club. She is completely surprised to realize that Calum hadn't died and is her boss.
Mr. Dabney is also having a rough time. His beloved club is losing money and Eve is not a distraction he needs. Will Gerald find Eve? Will we find out what happened to Kit? When will Adair be knocked on his arse(literally) by love?
I loved the interactions between Calum and Eve. Even though Eve knew who he was the whole time I felt that deep down Calum recognized Eve from his youth. I thought their romance had a nice built up and thoroughly enjoyed their office conversations. I can't wait to read Adair's story.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Mr. Calum Dabney and Lady Evelina Pruitt met first as children. Calum, an orphan of the streets and a thief. Eve, the privileged daughter of a Duke. Through random meeting in her father's stables they embarked on an unlikely friendship. Though, through certain circumstances....Eve is left believing Calum is dead and Calum is left believing Eve is a traitor.
Years Later,
Lady Eve is in dire straights. Her beloved brother, Kit, is missing and her eldest brother, Gerald, now a Duke is severely in debt from gambling and mistresses. Eve needs an escape if she want to keep her inheritance safe and reluctantly takes a job as a bookkeeper at the Hell and Sin Club. She is completely surprised to realize that Calum hadn't died and is her boss.
Mr. Dabney is also having a rough time. His beloved club is losing money and Eve is not a distraction he needs. Will Gerald find Eve? Will we find out what happened to Kit? When will Adair be knocked on his arse(literally) by love?
I loved the interactions between Calum and Eve. Even though Eve knew who he was the whole time I felt that deep down Calum recognized Eve from his youth. I thought their romance had a nice built up and thoroughly enjoyed their office conversations. I can't wait to read Adair's story.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 20, 2018
Christi shines again in this wonderful story of loyalty and love..
As this is the final installment of the series, I have zero qualms about saying that this has been my absolute favorite book in the series. Everything about this story just works for me. Childhood friends, separated by betrayal, reunited by accident, inevitably falling in love, reading it was simply lovely. I could not put it down! I shirked all responsibility to read it, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. (Probably will do it again. You know I love a good reread!)
Ever since Robert and Helena found their happily ever after, Calum has been my favorite brother. He did not seem to be forced into a false coldness like Ryker or Niall. No, Calum has always been the gentle soul that held his sister when the nightmares came. He has ever been the loyal protector, and I have loved him for it from the first time I met him. Therefore, it brings me infinite pleasure to say that I love him even more than ever now. His story is one of terror and desperation, but there is also love and triumph.
Eve is a good soul. Ever since she was a lonely little girl, she has shone from the inside out with love and gentleness. The rare sort of person that, if you’re ever lucky enough to know, should treasure forever. Eve made a mistake as a child, she naively trusted a man who ought to have protected her, and it cost her the only friend she had ever known. As an adult, she continues to show kindness and love to scared little children in need of a friend. Eve, as many of us do, punishes herself more for mistakes than she deserves.
One of my favorite things about this story was the little things that recalled sweet, shared childhood memories between Calum and Eve. They had so many happy memories of stolen moments. It was truly beautiful. If I were prone to weeping, the ending definitely would have had me reaching for tissues. I won’t give any details, but you’re going to love it.
This story is one for the ages. Mark it down as another marvelous love story from the desk of my favorite author. I recommend this book most highly to everyone. Sneak off and grab a few hours to yourself to enjoy this amazing story. You deserve it. 🙂
As this is the final installment of the series, I have zero qualms about saying that this has been my absolute favorite book in the series. Everything about this story just works for me. Childhood friends, separated by betrayal, reunited by accident, inevitably falling in love, reading it was simply lovely. I could not put it down! I shirked all responsibility to read it, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. (Probably will do it again. You know I love a good reread!)
Ever since Robert and Helena found their happily ever after, Calum has been my favorite brother. He did not seem to be forced into a false coldness like Ryker or Niall. No, Calum has always been the gentle soul that held his sister when the nightmares came. He has ever been the loyal protector, and I have loved him for it from the first time I met him. Therefore, it brings me infinite pleasure to say that I love him even more than ever now. His story is one of terror and desperation, but there is also love and triumph.
Eve is a good soul. Ever since she was a lonely little girl, she has shone from the inside out with love and gentleness. The rare sort of person that, if you’re ever lucky enough to know, should treasure forever. Eve made a mistake as a child, she naively trusted a man who ought to have protected her, and it cost her the only friend she had ever known. As an adult, she continues to show kindness and love to scared little children in need of a friend. Eve, as many of us do, punishes herself more for mistakes than she deserves.
One of my favorite things about this story was the little things that recalled sweet, shared childhood memories between Calum and Eve. They had so many happy memories of stolen moments. It was truly beautiful. If I were prone to weeping, the ending definitely would have had me reaching for tissues. I won’t give any details, but you’re going to love it.
This story is one for the ages. Mark it down as another marvelous love story from the desk of my favorite author. I recommend this book most highly to everyone. Sneak off and grab a few hours to yourself to enjoy this amazing story. You deserve it. 🙂
December 12, 2017
Second chance at a loving family is what I would call this storyline. I enjoyed this book a lot but I do have to say that it was a little slow at keeping my attention. When it did grab it I could not put it down. I also have not cried this much while reading in a while.
Calum Dabney new a loving family life until both of his parents died when he was five. His life changed so drastically when he found himself on the streets and everyday it was the survival of the quickest, fittest and smartest. Blood does not make a family but friends can form a bond that will trump all. He had a brief secret friendship with a young girl who treated him as a equal and then it came to a terrible end. Now he and his family own and run one of London’s finest gambling hells, The Hell and Sin.
Evelina Pruitt was a lonely little girl with her horses as her only friends until the day she finds a solum and rough boy in the mews. For a short time she had someone who treated her as a normal girl and the day he needed her help the most she betrayed him. Years later Eve finds herself on the run from her dreadful brother who wants her money and will do anything to get it. Three months until her 26th birthday Eve must hideout, so disguising herself she applies for the bookkeeping for The Hell and Sin. Her brother should never find her in the place she detest the most. When she sees Calum again her world tilts for she’s believed all this time that her
Was dead. Secrets, mistakes and lies and family may forever keep these two apart.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series which should be read in order. The witty banter between Calum and Eve is great. Eve is a very strong and fierce character and I fell in love with her way before Calum. The sexual tension is high and the emotions , well make sure you have tissues at hand.
Calum Dabney new a loving family life until both of his parents died when he was five. His life changed so drastically when he found himself on the streets and everyday it was the survival of the quickest, fittest and smartest. Blood does not make a family but friends can form a bond that will trump all. He had a brief secret friendship with a young girl who treated him as a equal and then it came to a terrible end. Now he and his family own and run one of London’s finest gambling hells, The Hell and Sin.
Evelina Pruitt was a lonely little girl with her horses as her only friends until the day she finds a solum and rough boy in the mews. For a short time she had someone who treated her as a normal girl and the day he needed her help the most she betrayed him. Years later Eve finds herself on the run from her dreadful brother who wants her money and will do anything to get it. Three months until her 26th birthday Eve must hideout, so disguising herself she applies for the bookkeeping for The Hell and Sin. Her brother should never find her in the place she detest the most. When she sees Calum again her world tilts for she’s believed all this time that her
Was dead. Secrets, mistakes and lies and family may forever keep these two apart.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series which should be read in order. The witty banter between Calum and Eve is great. Eve is a very strong and fierce character and I fell in love with her way before Calum. The sexual tension is high and the emotions , well make sure you have tissues at hand.
December 11, 2017
Strength of character, faith in the impossible and hope for the future are put to the test. Calum and Eve's friendship is as unique as their reunion is surprising. Beyond the boundaries of social class and despite the hands of time, the lonely girl with a title and the pick pocket, had a love that although interrupted, withstood the hands of time. Now the lonely girl has become a lady haunted by her past and in danger of losing her future and the penniless boy has become a fearless man. Their's is a complicated history of unwitting betrayals and dangerous liaisons, but even with no memory of the past that haunts Eve, Calum's heart is drawn to hers. He taught her what it meant to love, she shows him how it feels to care and together they discover what it means to be brave.
Ms. Caldwell speaks the language of the heart, like no other.
Ms. Caldwell speaks the language of the heart, like no other.
November 27, 2017
The final book in Christi Caldwell ‘s Sinful Brides series is as captivating as the first three. I loved meeting Calum in the The Rogue’s Wager, Scoundrel’s Honor and The Lady’s Guard and loved his happily ever after with Eve Pruitt, a strong loving women who has faced many hardships. They met as children, each living a hard life on opposite sides of society.. When a young Eve tries to save a wounded Boy, it only leads to horror for both of them. Years later, Eve is in desperate need of saving and fate leads her back to Calum, now a man whose circumstances have changed. How can these two people get over their pasts and make a future together? Only Christi Caldwell can weave her magic and make you believe in happy endings! I highly recommend this story! I was gifted with an ARC copy of this book.
December 5, 2017
I loved this series and have waited for Calum to finally have his HEA. There is one more Hell & Sin club owner, Adair, to get a HEA but that is the start of a new series, hopefully soon. Calum Dabney was a child of the streets after the death of his parents. Sometimes he’d visit or hide in a Lord’s stable and met Lady Eve Pruitt who he called Little Lena Duchess. She was a few years younger and loved him. She’d bring him food and they talked as friends do. But one night he was injured, and she ran to her house to get help. Her brother dragged Calum off to Newgate and she believed him to be dead.
Years go by, her father has died, one brother is missing, and her other brother, Gerald, (the one who took her friend to Newgate) wants the inheritance she will get in a few months. Gerald needs her money and sends a friend to “assault” her. She gets away from him and runs to the foundling home she helps with their bookkeeping. One of the nurses at the home tells her she must hide from her brother until she can receive her inheritance. The nurse had found her bookkeeping work at a gaming hell.
So, Eve starts working at Calum’s club and life gets so interesting I can not spoil it for you. This is a complex, wonderful story and I loved it! I can easily recommend this book. Thanks to Christi Caldwell for allowing me to read an ARC.
Years go by, her father has died, one brother is missing, and her other brother, Gerald, (the one who took her friend to Newgate) wants the inheritance she will get in a few months. Gerald needs her money and sends a friend to “assault” her. She gets away from him and runs to the foundling home she helps with their bookkeeping. One of the nurses at the home tells her she must hide from her brother until she can receive her inheritance. The nurse had found her bookkeeping work at a gaming hell.
So, Eve starts working at Calum’s club and life gets so interesting I can not spoil it for you. This is a complex, wonderful story and I loved it! I can easily recommend this book. Thanks to Christi Caldwell for allowing me to read an ARC.
November 28, 2017
Loved the story of Eve and Callum! She was already in love with him since her childhood, except she thought he was dead. He felt something for her immediately, but wasn't sure what it was. I understand Adair's reactions when he found out about Eve and I can't wait til "love knocks him on his but" I think their sister said. I don't like that there's no mention of what happens in the end to the bad guys and I can't believe that Callum is going to let off Lord Flynn lightly. I do hope this isn't the end! Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy!
November 17, 2017
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley to read in exchange for a fair review. This book The Heiress's Deception is Book 4 in Sinful Brides and will be published on December 12, 2017. I have not read the other books in the series prior to reading this one but will put them on my list because the characters do sound interesting when we meet or hear about them in this story. There are a lot of different tropes going on in this book enough that one might find them overwhelming but some how Christi Caldwell makes it all work so if you are looking for a book with a runaway heiress who loves horses has an evil duke for a brother as well as a missing brother, is an ugly duckling who helps out at a foundling hospital and hides out in a gambling hell run by a now grown group of Oliver Twist like urchins including a childhood friend whom she almost got killed then this is your book. Sizzle level medium.
November 6, 2017
I was caught at the very beginning, I just could not put it down. It was a wonderful story, heart warming, thoughtful and loving. Calum Dabney lost his parents when he was six. He was sent to a cruel founding home, which he ran away from and ended up on the street. Lady Eve Pruitt lived in a townhouse with her brother, Gerald. He was a very evil man and he wanted Eve's dowry.
The characters are so life like and the plot is complex and there are some surprises at the end. The author has a well written, and smoothly moving book. Christie Caldwell has always written such a great story. I loved the banter between Eve and Callum. She , she had brains when she found where the other bookkeeper had stolen money from them.
. I highly recommend this mesmerizing tale.
The characters are so life like and the plot is complex and there are some surprises at the end. The author has a well written, and smoothly moving book. Christie Caldwell has always written such a great story. I loved the banter between Eve and Callum. She , she had brains when she found where the other bookkeeper had stolen money from them.
. I highly recommend this mesmerizing tale.
January 2, 2018
The Heiress's Deception is another very good story in the Sinful Brides series. This is the story of Calum Dabney one of the Partners of the Hell and Sin Club and the Eve Pruitt sister of the Duke of Bedford. Eve's brother is evil and desolate reprobate who has gambled the entire family fortunes and property's away. Now he is after Eve's Dowry which is very large. So he has one of his friends try to rape Eve and force her into marriage, so they can split her dowry. Eve managers to bash her assailant over the head and escapes. But her brother is determine to steal her inheritance, so Eve leaves and becomes the new accountant at the Hell and Sin Club. Calum knew Eve when he was a young street urchin and a member of the Dickery Gang. But in her disguise he doesn't know who she is. But she recognized the young boy who had once been her only friend. Calum had been stabbed after trying to steal Befords purse and his friend who is the young Eve goes and gets her brother to help him. No knowing he is the one who stabbed her young friend Calum Instead he has Calum taken to Newgate to be hanged. Seventeen (17) years later Eve has shows up at his club seeking the job of Accountant. Calum doesn't recognize her but she knows who he is. Her Young friend whom she thought dead.
The story is about Secrets and Lies of Star Crossed Lovers that get there HEA!! Very Well Done!!
The story is about Secrets and Lies of Star Crossed Lovers that get there HEA!! Very Well Done!!
September 29, 2017
So I've read all the other book in the Sinful Bride series by Christi Caldwell and really liked them so I had high hopes going into The Heiress Deception and it did not disappoint. The series is around these 5 characters who run The Hell and Sin Club and were all from rough beginnings with them stealing and living on the streets to survive as children. This story focuses on Callum who is one of the men who run the Hell and Sin Club. When he was younger and living as a pickpocket, he had befriended a young girl who he feels ultimately betrays him. Years later when he's now established, this same girl, now young woman, comes to his club to interview for a position as a bookkeeper. Eve is running/hiding from heartless brother bent on doing her harm and decides that the club might just be the place to do it. Callum and Eve are both likeable characters that make following their story fun. Eve is especially plucky and not what you expect in a typical ton chit. Callum is rough around the edges but all around nice guy. Can't wait for the next one!
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 11, 2017
I just loved this book. I do believe that I may have read other in that same series as well and it is just plain wonderful.
How can anyone not love Eve and Calum, I mean really!!!
I love how they come together, first as children and then back as adults. I found that really lovely and heart warming to be honest with you all.
On the other hand, Eve's bother is a so pure evil, I have so much enjoyed hating him. I do have a thing for truly horrid black characters and the Duke was pure evil and so loathsome to boot!
This is a wonderful book, I have loved every page of it an d really highly recommend it to you all!
How can anyone not love Eve and Calum, I mean really!!!
I love how they come together, first as children and then back as adults. I found that really lovely and heart warming to be honest with you all.
On the other hand, Eve's bother is a so pure evil, I have so much enjoyed hating him. I do have a thing for truly horrid black characters and the Duke was pure evil and so loathsome to boot!
This is a wonderful book, I have loved every page of it an d really highly recommend it to you all!
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