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Bridal Discipline #5
Arabella's Taming
First comes scandal, then comes marriage, then comes the battle of wills...
Lady Arabella Windham has given up on ever attracting the attention of Lord Thomas Hood. After discovering his disdain for her, she throws caution to the wind and becomes more reckless than ever. When her behavior results in disgrace, Lord Thomas is caught up in the scandal with her.
Marriage is the only solution.
With a strong-willed bride unwilling to bend and a stubborn lord determined to curb her rebellious ways, will it be misery-ever-after?
Lady Arabella Windham has given up on ever attracting the attention of Lord Thomas Hood. After discovering his disdain for her, she throws caution to the wind and becomes more reckless than ever. When her behavior results in disgrace, Lord Thomas is caught up in the scandal with her.
Marriage is the only solution.
With a strong-willed bride unwilling to bend and a stubborn lord determined to curb her rebellious ways, will it be misery-ever-after?
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2018
170 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
About the author
Golden Angel
165 books2,022 followersGolden Angel is a USA Today best-selling author of heart and bottom warming romance.
She is happily married, old enough to know better but still too young to care, and a big fan of happily-ever-afters, strong heroes and heroines, and sizzling chemistry.
When not in front of her computer writing, she can be found sewing her next project, hanging out with friends, or wandering the grounds of the Maryland Renaissance Festival.
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Website: http://www.goldenangelromance.com
She is happily married, old enough to know better but still too young to care, and a big fan of happily-ever-afters, strong heroes and heroines, and sizzling chemistry.
When not in front of her computer writing, she can be found sewing her next project, hanging out with friends, or wandering the grounds of the Maryland Renaissance Festival.
Newsletter with free books - https://subscribepage.io/goldenangelr...
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2G68e3O
Facebook: http://bit.ly/2Ds7c0e
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2CkqiqZ
Website: http://www.goldenangelromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
February 6, 2021
4 stars
Lady Arabella Windham has long held a torch for her brother's friend and future Viscount, Lord Thomas Hood, though she isn't quite sure why she is so attracted to him as he is nearly as stuffy as she believes her brother (a duke!) to be. But she has recently decided to give up on her dreams of marrying him as she overheard him telling her brother that he intended to marry this season, and the ladies he lists as possible candidates do not include Arabella. As if that wasn't heartbreaking enough, when her brother mentions his sister as a possibility, Thomas acts like he is crazy to think that she would ever suit as his wife. Tired of trying to curb her impulsive ways in the apparently vain attempt to show Thomas that she is wife material, Arabella decides to do as she pleases. And one night, she decides she to act more inebriated than she actually is and kiss Thomas, but she takes him by surprise, and they end up tumbling together in the gardens in view of several party guests.
Honorable man that he is, Thomas agrees to marry Arabella to keep her from being ruined in the eyes of society, but he feels ill-equipped to handle a wife he believes will be unruly and unmalleable. He had planned to marry a woman with an even temperament that would be a respectable Viscountess and a good mother for his children; instead, he is now saddled with a young lady he believes entirely unsuitable for the role. But as he gets to know Arabella more, he realizes there is much more to her than the beauty that draws him to her despite his best efforts to not acknowledge that she sparks his lust. Will Thomas be able to accept Arabella as she is, or will he insist on molding her into what he believes to be the perfect wife?
What I liked:
--- Both characters were likeable - I was a little worried that I would find Arabella too flighty and Thomas too stiff, but they seemed to bring out the best in each other
--- STEAMY GOODNESS, early and often
What I didn't like as much:
--- Sometimes too much stubbornness leading to unnecessary angst, but not too overdone
Overall, an enjoyable read and my second favorite of the series (Phillip's Rules is still tops for me!) with entertaining characters and naughty steamy goodness galore!
Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 4/5
Steam Level* --- 4.25/5
Violence --- spankings galore (hand; birch)
Language --- s0me
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Lady Arabella Windham has long held a torch for her brother's friend and future Viscount, Lord Thomas Hood, though she isn't quite sure why she is so attracted to him as he is nearly as stuffy as she believes her brother (a duke!) to be. But she has recently decided to give up on her dreams of marrying him as she overheard him telling her brother that he intended to marry this season, and the ladies he lists as possible candidates do not include Arabella. As if that wasn't heartbreaking enough, when her brother mentions his sister as a possibility, Thomas acts like he is crazy to think that she would ever suit as his wife. Tired of trying to curb her impulsive ways in the apparently vain attempt to show Thomas that she is wife material, Arabella decides to do as she pleases. And one night, she decides she to act more inebriated than she actually is and kiss Thomas, but she takes him by surprise, and they end up tumbling together in the gardens in view of several party guests.
Honorable man that he is, Thomas agrees to marry Arabella to keep her from being ruined in the eyes of society, but he feels ill-equipped to handle a wife he believes will be unruly and unmalleable. He had planned to marry a woman with an even temperament that would be a respectable Viscountess and a good mother for his children; instead, he is now saddled with a young lady he believes entirely unsuitable for the role. But as he gets to know Arabella more, he realizes there is much more to her than the beauty that draws him to her despite his best efforts to not acknowledge that she sparks his lust. Will Thomas be able to accept Arabella as she is, or will he insist on molding her into what he believes to be the perfect wife?
What I liked:
--- Both characters were likeable - I was a little worried that I would find Arabella too flighty and Thomas too stiff, but they seemed to bring out the best in each other
--- STEAMY GOODNESS, early and often
What I didn't like as much:
--- Sometimes too much stubbornness leading to unnecessary angst, but not too overdone
Overall, an enjoyable read and my second favorite of the series (Phillip's Rules is still tops for me!) with entertaining characters and naughty steamy goodness galore!
Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 4/5
Steam Level* --- 4.25/5
Violence --- spankings galore (hand; birch)
Language --- s0me
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
May 27, 2018
I didn't know what to expect about this one... I can't say I liked Thomas that much in the other books, but I loved Arabella. I went in expecting to enjoy her parts of the book and to tolerate him *grins* It went much better!
Thomas is a stuffy, stuffy heir to a Viscount. He's proper, well behaved and dominant in the bedroom. When he sees what mischief Arabella can do, he's appalled and kind of mean. He tells her brother he would never choose her to marry. Que our heroine who was listening at the door.
Arabella has tried to conform more to Society's norms for Thomas, she has a crush on him, so to hear him(listening at the door is bad!) disparage her efforts and herself is devastating. She decides if he can't see how much work she's been putting to be more like his "ideal wife" then he doesn't deserve her. She starts getting into trouble more and to treat Thomas differently. A lot of problems arise... And I'm not telling you more, because you have to read this lovely story for yourself.
I recommend this for lovers of erotic romance and of domestic discipline.
PS: I absolutely loved the scene where he finally recognized that what he was feeling for Arabella was love.
Thomas is a stuffy, stuffy heir to a Viscount. He's proper, well behaved and dominant in the bedroom. When he sees what mischief Arabella can do, he's appalled and kind of mean. He tells her brother he would never choose her to marry. Que our heroine who was listening at the door.
Arabella has tried to conform more to Society's norms for Thomas, she has a crush on him, so to hear him(listening at the door is bad!) disparage her efforts and herself is devastating. She decides if he can't see how much work she's been putting to be more like his "ideal wife" then he doesn't deserve her. She starts getting into trouble more and to treat Thomas differently. A lot of problems arise... And I'm not telling you more, because you have to read this lovely story for yourself.
I recommend this for lovers of erotic romance and of domestic discipline.
PS: I absolutely loved the scene where he finally recognized that what he was feeling for Arabella was love.
October 7, 2018
Another last in the series....damn! I love these families Golden Angel keeps introducing me too só much,i’m sad to see them go. But she does leave me with hope for more :-)
Arabelle tried,she really did,to behave as a proper lady should. All for the man she loves,lord Thomas Hood. But when she finds out it doesn’t change his opinion of her,it breaks her heart. She decides that if she’s miserable,the one responsible should be just as miserable. So,she forces him into a situation where he can’t do anything but marry her.
Only the Thomas she’s married to,slowly turns out to be another man she thought him to be.
And for Thomas,Arabella turns out to be a very different girl he thought her to be.
As they slowly peel back the layers,they find out they even like what this marriage is turning out to be,a lot.
Even with the discipline Thomas has to use,or is it because of that? It surely helps both with finding a way to relax into their marriage and search that happy after!
Arabelle tried,she really did,to behave as a proper lady should. All for the man she loves,lord Thomas Hood. But when she finds out it doesn’t change his opinion of her,it breaks her heart. She decides that if she’s miserable,the one responsible should be just as miserable. So,she forces him into a situation where he can’t do anything but marry her.
Only the Thomas she’s married to,slowly turns out to be another man she thought him to be.
And for Thomas,Arabella turns out to be a very different girl he thought her to be.
As they slowly peel back the layers,they find out they even like what this marriage is turning out to be,a lot.
Even with the discipline Thomas has to use,or is it because of that? It surely helps both with finding a way to relax into their marriage and search that happy after!
March 20, 2022
My favourite couple of this series. He's a bit stuffy, and a grumpy man who shows his disapproval of the h. Trouble is she's in love with him, so when he makes it clear he's not interested in her, she looks around for another man. That move changes everything for him. I loved the merry dance and how much he underestimated her. Great ending to the series.
January 9, 2021
Arabella has been interested in Thomas Hood for some time now, Thomas is the elder of the Hood brothers and stodgy, and she has been making an effort to act in public like Thomas would like to no particular avail at least as far as she can tell. Lord Thomas Hood has ridgid set of criteria for his futire wife to meet and his family and friends don’t think that he will ever find anyone that meets the requirements, but he persists in think of finding a suitable wife in these terms.
However once Arabella caught the Marquis of Hartford’s attention and he started formally courting her, Thomas became jealous even though, he wasn’t admitting it to himself just yet.
Interestingly enough on a early morning ride through the park, Arabella races against an unknown man before she discovers that it is Thomas and then to her sort of dismay the two of them ride with each other. Then Arabella totally surprises Thomas with a comment about how he is insecure about his social status and that was the reason he kept finding fault with her behaviour. Thomas didn’t know what to say after Arabella told him off and she rode off.
Arabella is thinking of marrying Hartford even though Hartford made it clear that he was not proposing out of love and expected to have the usual Ton Marriage, because Arabella had pretty much given up on Thomas. For his part Thomas doesn’t know quite what to do, he just knows that he doesn’t approve of Arabella marrying Hartford.
A few days later Arabella and Thomas are at a party and are standing near a fountain and talking. Arabella had drunk a quanity of champagne and impulsively she kisses Thomas and then they both fall into the fountain, only to find that Arabella’s brother Isaac and Lady Jersey are observing them. So in order to avoid a scandal Thomas has to marry Arabella.
After Arabella’s wedding the ladies get together with her and they make sure to explain what to expect and what Thomas might want to do with her in some detail and then they talked of spanking and how she might like it. Then a little later when Arabella and Thomas are in bed, the first thing Thomas does after finding out the gist of what the ladies told her is to spank her. Then he has sex with her.
The next morning after their wedding night Arabella goes riding without permission and she gets a punishment spanking. Then she goes to her bedroom and rubs one out as she is so horny from the spanking.
Later we have a nice HEA ending. Then comes the Epilogue and I was pleased to find that in the Epilogue that there is some really excellent butt stuff.
Well this is the end of the series and I must say I really enjoyed the story and the series. In fact this is the second time I have read these books, I think that they are just wonderful.
However once Arabella caught the Marquis of Hartford’s attention and he started formally courting her, Thomas became jealous even though, he wasn’t admitting it to himself just yet.
Interestingly enough on a early morning ride through the park, Arabella races against an unknown man before she discovers that it is Thomas and then to her sort of dismay the two of them ride with each other. Then Arabella totally surprises Thomas with a comment about how he is insecure about his social status and that was the reason he kept finding fault with her behaviour. Thomas didn’t know what to say after Arabella told him off and she rode off.
Arabella is thinking of marrying Hartford even though Hartford made it clear that he was not proposing out of love and expected to have the usual Ton Marriage, because Arabella had pretty much given up on Thomas. For his part Thomas doesn’t know quite what to do, he just knows that he doesn’t approve of Arabella marrying Hartford.
A few days later Arabella and Thomas are at a party and are standing near a fountain and talking. Arabella had drunk a quanity of champagne and impulsively she kisses Thomas and then they both fall into the fountain, only to find that Arabella’s brother Isaac and Lady Jersey are observing them. So in order to avoid a scandal Thomas has to marry Arabella.
After Arabella’s wedding the ladies get together with her and they make sure to explain what to expect and what Thomas might want to do with her in some detail and then they talked of spanking and how she might like it. Then a little later when Arabella and Thomas are in bed, the first thing Thomas does after finding out the gist of what the ladies told her is to spank her. Then he has sex with her.
The next morning after their wedding night Arabella goes riding without permission and she gets a punishment spanking. Then she goes to her bedroom and rubs one out as she is so horny from the spanking.
Later we have a nice HEA ending. Then comes the Epilogue and I was pleased to find that in the Epilogue that there is some really excellent butt stuff.
Well this is the end of the series and I must say I really enjoyed the story and the series. In fact this is the second time I have read these books, I think that they are just wonderful.
December 2, 2020
- Don't take my word for it -
I have read the "Domestic discipline quartet" which,the excessive spanking aside,I enjoyed thoroughly.It was funny,smart and the plot was solid!Yeah I know big surprise for plain erotica and yet there it was! 😝
This is a spin off of those series and some of the previous MC's appear here as well,so in general I did enjoy it as a light,pleasant read.Not good as the previous ones but yet nice.
3,5 start as it felt a bit too rushed and a bit too light compared to the DD series.But still I recommend it 😝 Not sure under what category this one falls though...
I have read the "Domestic discipline quartet" which,the excessive spanking aside,I enjoyed thoroughly.It was funny,smart and the plot was solid!Yeah I know big surprise for plain erotica and yet there it was! 😝
This is a spin off of those series and some of the previous MC's appear here as well,so in general I did enjoy it as a light,pleasant read.Not good as the previous ones but yet nice.
3,5 start as it felt a bit too rushed and a bit too light compared to the DD series.But still I recommend it 😝 Not sure under what category this one falls though...
June 8, 2018
Skilled author.
May 27, 2018
Arabella’s Taming is part of the Bridal Discipline series, but can be read as a standalone just fine. Having not read the previous books, I was able to dive right in without a problem.
A historical romance, Arabella is beyond her years. She’s intelligent, witty, and doesn’t hide it. Thomas is stiff. He’s looking for the perfect wife, and even has list. These two made for an interesting couple. Arabella is free while Thomas bonds himself. Their opposites attract chemistry was great.
Overall, I enjoyed Arabella’s Taming. It was a bit slow to start, but did get sucked in, and I’m so interested to go back to the previous couples in this series. Arabella’s Taming was a quick and fun, easy to read romance.
3.5 Star Review
A historical romance, Arabella is beyond her years. She’s intelligent, witty, and doesn’t hide it. Thomas is stiff. He’s looking for the perfect wife, and even has list. These two made for an interesting couple. Arabella is free while Thomas bonds himself. Their opposites attract chemistry was great.
Overall, I enjoyed Arabella’s Taming. It was a bit slow to start, but did get sucked in, and I’m so interested to go back to the previous couples in this series. Arabella’s Taming was a quick and fun, easy to read romance.
3.5 Star Review
June 7, 2018
A fun, hot and entertaining read
This is one of the best historical discipline books I have read. I've read a few books by the author and was quite intrigued by the blurb, even though historical isn't a genre I generally choose to read. Spanking books, whilst hugely popular at the moment, can vary from good to atrocious, I was expecting at least an 'OK' read but was very pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this story.
Arabella is a Duke's sister, so is fairly high in social standing. However she has a very wilful streak and isn't bothered about polite societies expectations. However there is something about the rather staid and proper Lord Thomas Hood that has caught not only her eye but also her heart. In an attempt to attract his attention Arabella has really tried to behave. So when she overhears him telling her bother that he could never marry a girl like her, she is devastated. When an opportunity arises Arabella uses it to trap Thomas into marrying her, but she is determined to show him that he will never command her.
Arabella was impetuous but great fun. Her complaints, her actions and reactions all felt very believable and natural....even justified on occasion. I loved how she never really lost her mischievousness nor her joie de vivre. Thomas really was a stick-in-the mud at times, the ways that Arabella found to torment him were quite amusing, even if the consequences were not. It was very refreshing to have a story where the Hero had to acknowledge he wasn't always in the right. I also liked how the story had compromise and a hero willing to listen and adapt.
Whilst I can't claim to be an historical expert the book felt very genuine in this aspect. The dialogue, descriptions and social expectations etc all felt as though the author had undertaken some decent research. Whilst on the surface the Victorians were very sexually repressed, this certainly wasn't true in 'real life'.
The story totally drew me in and whilst the plot is fairly simple, basically Arabella and Thomas finding their way together, this is still a very entertaining read. It's also very steamy, though there was a good balance between these scenes and the rest of the book. There isn't really any bad language but there are several scenes of domestic discipline, as well as a few other very hot scenes - and not all of them are confined to the bedroom!
This is one of the best historical discipline books I have read. I've read a few books by the author and was quite intrigued by the blurb, even though historical isn't a genre I generally choose to read. Spanking books, whilst hugely popular at the moment, can vary from good to atrocious, I was expecting at least an 'OK' read but was very pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this story.
Arabella is a Duke's sister, so is fairly high in social standing. However she has a very wilful streak and isn't bothered about polite societies expectations. However there is something about the rather staid and proper Lord Thomas Hood that has caught not only her eye but also her heart. In an attempt to attract his attention Arabella has really tried to behave. So when she overhears him telling her bother that he could never marry a girl like her, she is devastated. When an opportunity arises Arabella uses it to trap Thomas into marrying her, but she is determined to show him that he will never command her.
Arabella was impetuous but great fun. Her complaints, her actions and reactions all felt very believable and natural....even justified on occasion. I loved how she never really lost her mischievousness nor her joie de vivre. Thomas really was a stick-in-the mud at times, the ways that Arabella found to torment him were quite amusing, even if the consequences were not. It was very refreshing to have a story where the Hero had to acknowledge he wasn't always in the right. I also liked how the story had compromise and a hero willing to listen and adapt.
Whilst I can't claim to be an historical expert the book felt very genuine in this aspect. The dialogue, descriptions and social expectations etc all felt as though the author had undertaken some decent research. Whilst on the surface the Victorians were very sexually repressed, this certainly wasn't true in 'real life'.
The story totally drew me in and whilst the plot is fairly simple, basically Arabella and Thomas finding their way together, this is still a very entertaining read. It's also very steamy, though there was a good balance between these scenes and the rest of the book. There isn't really any bad language but there are several scenes of domestic discipline, as well as a few other very hot scenes - and not all of them are confined to the bedroom!
May 29, 2018
Highly entertaining view of early London Society!!
This is book #5 in the series. While I did not read any prior books in the series, I still never felt lost. This story was so enjoyable I intend to remedy this fact by reading them all.
Arabella is a high spirited young lady attempting to curb her exuberance to attract Lord Thomas Hood. When she overhears all the reasons she is an unsuitable match and the list of possible candidates she takes action. This action results in an offer from Thomas to avoid scandal.
Thomas is very aware of society mores and rankings; it never occurs to him that Arabella actually favors him. As these two work out their differences we are treated to humor, rebellion and steamy discipline in a time long past.
Will Thomas tame his stubborn wife, or will he discover a little sass makes life worth living??
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
This is book #5 in the series. While I did not read any prior books in the series, I still never felt lost. This story was so enjoyable I intend to remedy this fact by reading them all.
Arabella is a high spirited young lady attempting to curb her exuberance to attract Lord Thomas Hood. When she overhears all the reasons she is an unsuitable match and the list of possible candidates she takes action. This action results in an offer from Thomas to avoid scandal.
Thomas is very aware of society mores and rankings; it never occurs to him that Arabella actually favors him. As these two work out their differences we are treated to humor, rebellion and steamy discipline in a time long past.
Will Thomas tame his stubborn wife, or will he discover a little sass makes life worth living??
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
September 14, 2023
As if often happens with the favorite characters in a book series, Arabella deserved better.
The beginning of the book was good, right up until the point where he punishes her on their first morning as a married couple, doesn't provide after care on the very first time he spanks her & nobody calls him out for it.
I was hoping it got better after that but it didn't.
Even the sex scenes were just a lot of hitting in detail followed by "she used his mount & he used his"
The beginning of the book was good, right up until the point where he punishes her on their first morning as a married couple, doesn't provide after care on the very first time he spanks her & nobody calls him out for it.
I was hoping it got better after that but it didn't.
Even the sex scenes were just a lot of hitting in detail followed by "she used his mount & he used his"
July 2, 2018
Arabella's Taming is the first book that I have read by Golden Angel and I absolutely loved it. Arabella is a real spitfire, but she loses some of her fire when she overhears the man she is in love with telling her brother he has zero interest in considering her as a potential wife. Ouch! Not an easy thing to hear. Despite all her attempts at calming and reining in some of her unruly ways he still finds her unsuitable. Even though she is truly hurt by this, she decides to throw her better behavior to the wind and be her old self. She attracts the attention of the Marquess, who has less than an ideal reputation. The Marquess is fun, but now what Arabella truly wants, because he has more than a wandering eye. So what does she do? Well, Arabella takes things into her own hands and creates a scandal that she knows Thomas cannot walk away from, and that he'll do the right thing. The last thing Thomas wants is a wife who must be trained but that is exactly what he gets.
When I first picked up Arabella's Taming, I honestly didn't know what to expect. I had never read anything by this author before, but I had heard good things. Needless to say, I was not disappointed. Arabella is a fun character who engages you from the beginning. This book is part of a series, but I feel that this book can be read as a standalone. The author goes and touches on incidents that have happened in previous books, but it does not take away from my enjoyment. I like reading about Thomas and Arabella's story. Thomas wants a certain type of wife and Arabella doesn't fit that mold. But Arabella won't let that stop her. She tries to conform, but hey when it doesn't work, always revert. I like how the characters compliment each other. You can tell that Thomas is a bit oblivious to Arabella's interest, but that changes quickly after a certain scene.
There isn't anything I don't like about this story. It flows well, and kept me engaged from beginning to end. I couldn't get enough.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I first picked up Arabella's Taming, I honestly didn't know what to expect. I had never read anything by this author before, but I had heard good things. Needless to say, I was not disappointed. Arabella is a fun character who engages you from the beginning. This book is part of a series, but I feel that this book can be read as a standalone. The author goes and touches on incidents that have happened in previous books, but it does not take away from my enjoyment. I like reading about Thomas and Arabella's story. Thomas wants a certain type of wife and Arabella doesn't fit that mold. But Arabella won't let that stop her. She tries to conform, but hey when it doesn't work, always revert. I like how the characters compliment each other. You can tell that Thomas is a bit oblivious to Arabella's interest, but that changes quickly after a certain scene.
There isn't anything I don't like about this story. It flows well, and kept me engaged from beginning to end. I couldn't get enough.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2022
Hmmm, it was ok. Arabella and Thomas are perfect for one another. They do balance each other out. I know neither one of them would have worked being married to anyone else.
.
I don’t know what it was but this one didn’t grip me. The 🌶 was good. The story was fine - nothing surprised or shocked me. It just didn’t really entertain me. I read it for the sake of finishing the series.
.
The elements of her character in the previous books, her feistiness and hoydenistic ways were fun then, but when it came to her story it rather irritated me. It was as if she became more childish, more like a brat. She got what she wanted and still wasn’t satisfied.
.
Similar with Gabrielle’s book I just got irritated by the petulance. They want to be married, in love etc then stop acting like a child.
.
As a series I’ll sum it up like this: the first book I wish focused more on the main couple. The second book I hated the leading lady and didn’t like them as a couple and overall everything to do with Gabrielle . The third book was my favourite! Absolutely loved it. The forth I also loved. And this was ok but again I just didn’t really enjoy it.
.
I don’t know what it was but this one didn’t grip me. The 🌶 was good. The story was fine - nothing surprised or shocked me. It just didn’t really entertain me. I read it for the sake of finishing the series.
.
The elements of her character in the previous books, her feistiness and hoydenistic ways were fun then, but when it came to her story it rather irritated me. It was as if she became more childish, more like a brat. She got what she wanted and still wasn’t satisfied.
.
Similar with Gabrielle’s book I just got irritated by the petulance. They want to be married, in love etc then stop acting like a child.
.
As a series I’ll sum it up like this: the first book I wish focused more on the main couple. The second book I hated the leading lady and didn’t like them as a couple and overall everything to do with Gabrielle . The third book was my favourite! Absolutely loved it. The forth I also loved. And this was ok but again I just didn’t really enjoy it.
May 29, 2018
Arabella's Training brings us to the end of another of Golden Angel's 19th century series. Here we have the wild and impetuous Arabella in love with Thomas, the straight-laced heir who has a list of qualities he wants in a wife, and Arabella doesn't meet any of them. Nevertheless, he finds himself feeling almost jealous, when Arabella is courted by a renowned rake. Arabella, of course, has only taken up with the rake because she feels hurt that Thomas doesn't want anything to do with her. She discovers this by listening at keyholes, a skill she has perfected over her short life. Of course, they end up married, although neither is sure of the other, and we get the enormous pleasure of seeing them come together, with quite a bit of spanking at the same time. The beginning I referred to is that there are enough characters left hanging that clearly, there will be more books in this setting.
As usual, the characters are well drawn and individual. We get a few glimpses of previous relationships, but the focus is most definitely on Arabella and Thomas. There are some minor editorial issues, but nothing so bad it pulled me out of the story.
As usual, the characters are well drawn and individual. We get a few glimpses of previous relationships, but the focus is most definitely on Arabella and Thomas. There are some minor editorial issues, but nothing so bad it pulled me out of the story.
May 25, 2018
Arabella may be in over her head, but she never backs down from a challenge. Thomas is determined to take the vixen in hand, unless she succeeds in taming him first. Angel gives readers naughty in the most delightful way. Arabella's Taming is wicked fun.
August 19, 2018
This is now the third book I have read in this series and so far it’s delightfully entertaining. The main character Arabella was funny, charismatic and spunky. I also liked how the main lead man character develops over time. All and all this was a fun book to read, a must read for romance readers.
February 24, 2021
I didn't know what to think of Thomas but he grew on me as the story went on. I loved Arabella and her free-spirit ways. In some ways it's exactly what Thomas needed. The story flows so well that I was sucked in from the beginning and even had a laugh a time or two.
May 29, 2018
When I first saw this book, I have to admit I was intrigued. I love historical romance, and I have never shied away from a well done erotica novel, nor have I shied away from those that delve into BDSM elements. Needless to say, I was super excited to be chosen to read this one.
And it wasn't all bad. I enjoyed the characters of Arabella and Thomas. I enjoyed her spunk, and the way she was able to stoke his ire, even as she brought out an entirely different (and more appealing) side of him.
It was when Thomas first decides to punish Arabella for something that was as much his fault as it was hers, did I begin to lose interest in their story. It would have been one thing if Thomas had spoken to her, had made his intentions clear on the subject and then punished her if she had willfully disobeyed him. Instead he did something he knew would raise her hackles, and then punished her for responding in a way that he should have expected having known her most of her life. That seemed a more extreme punishment than what was necessary.
I do believe there are people who will enjoy this novel (as evidenced by the 4 and 5 star reviews it has already accumulated), however this one was just not for me. I would be willing to give this author's new series a chance.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
And it wasn't all bad. I enjoyed the characters of Arabella and Thomas. I enjoyed her spunk, and the way she was able to stoke his ire, even as she brought out an entirely different (and more appealing) side of him.
It was when Thomas first decides to punish Arabella for something that was as much his fault as it was hers, did I begin to lose interest in their story. It would have been one thing if Thomas had spoken to her, had made his intentions clear on the subject and then punished her if she had willfully disobeyed him. Instead he did something he knew would raise her hackles, and then punished her for responding in a way that he should have expected having known her most of her life. That seemed a more extreme punishment than what was necessary.
I do believe there are people who will enjoy this novel (as evidenced by the 4 and 5 star reviews it has already accumulated), however this one was just not for me. I would be willing to give this author's new series a chance.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
February 20, 2021
*Light bdsm, just spanking...domestic discipline*
I liked Arabella's sassy and headstrong personality compared to Thomas being more uptight but just as dominant. Good book!
I liked Arabella's sassy and headstrong personality compared to Thomas being more uptight but just as dominant. Good book!
July 17, 2018
Seriously hot and seriously funny
The final book in the Bridal Discipline series (though there will be another series spinoff or two), while you don't need to have read the previous books to enjoy this one, there are a lot of characters crossing over, and the main characters here did have some important roles in previous books. So for maximum enjoyment, I'd recommend reading the series in order.
I've been looking forward to seeing how the stuffy and somewhat rigid Thomas deals with the independent and free-spirited Arabella, and there were plenty of sparks both in and out of the bedroom. I particularly enjoyed seeing Thomas loosen up a bit, and the ribbing he took from his brothers and friends was pretty hilarious. Arabella's interactions with her friends are pretty funny as well, as she finally gets the experiences to go with the tales her friends have been telling her, and yes she actually did like some of things in the bedroom that she had sworn she never would.
I have to admit this wasn't my favorite couple of the series; Arabella was just too much of a brat for my taste (maybe I'm more like stuffy Thomas than I thought, lol). While her antics were usually amusing and I did feel for her situation, I just found her too self-centered and it made me dislike her a little, especially to start off with. She just never quite grew up enough, imo. Thomas was better; though too stuffy and judgmental to start, he did show not only that he had a lot more depth than we originally saw, but also character growth as he came to care less about what society thought and by developing the ability to be spontaneous and even slightly scandalous on occasion.
This was still an engaging and enjoyable read, seriously hot and seriously funny and with plenty of the great characters interactions that I enjoyed in the previous books. I'm greatly looking forward to the spinoffs and following the stories of some of the intriguing secondary characters that still haven't gotten their HEA. 4.5 stars
B2B Kelly
The final book in the Bridal Discipline series (though there will be another series spinoff or two), while you don't need to have read the previous books to enjoy this one, there are a lot of characters crossing over, and the main characters here did have some important roles in previous books. So for maximum enjoyment, I'd recommend reading the series in order.
I've been looking forward to seeing how the stuffy and somewhat rigid Thomas deals with the independent and free-spirited Arabella, and there were plenty of sparks both in and out of the bedroom. I particularly enjoyed seeing Thomas loosen up a bit, and the ribbing he took from his brothers and friends was pretty hilarious. Arabella's interactions with her friends are pretty funny as well, as she finally gets the experiences to go with the tales her friends have been telling her, and yes she actually did like some of things in the bedroom that she had sworn she never would.
I have to admit this wasn't my favorite couple of the series; Arabella was just too much of a brat for my taste (maybe I'm more like stuffy Thomas than I thought, lol). While her antics were usually amusing and I did feel for her situation, I just found her too self-centered and it made me dislike her a little, especially to start off with. She just never quite grew up enough, imo. Thomas was better; though too stuffy and judgmental to start, he did show not only that he had a lot more depth than we originally saw, but also character growth as he came to care less about what society thought and by developing the ability to be spontaneous and even slightly scandalous on occasion.
This was still an engaging and enjoyable read, seriously hot and seriously funny and with plenty of the great characters interactions that I enjoyed in the previous books. I'm greatly looking forward to the spinoffs and following the stories of some of the intriguing secondary characters that still haven't gotten their HEA. 4.5 stars
B2B Kelly
May 29, 2018
In the last Bridal Discipline book, Golden Angel has brought us Arabella, who may be the feistiest heroine in the series, at least in my opinion. I love Arabella and her energy and feistiness. Thomas definitely had his hands full with her, and I want to know how he thought that he could resist her. She's so hard to resist.
Arabella has secretly loved Thomas for a while, and spent this Season working on being good so that he can see her as a bridal candidate. It took a lot of work on her part and patience for her to curb some of her more exuberant tendencies. But, all that work is for naught as she overhears Thomas pointing out all her flaws to her brothers and explaining why she is not a candidate for him to marry. She doesn't meet the list of attributes he has, and she's just not right for him. Once she hears that, her heart breaks, and she decides that she doesn't need a love match after all.
I really enjoyed Arabella. She is just an awesome character, IMO. She is very much who she is and lives very much out loud. She loves to gallop her horse, she's fiercely protective of her friends, she wants to know everything that she can, and she doesn't stop pestering her friends to find out what she wants. Thomas made me mad sometimes. I don't think he was necessarily as realistic as he could have been about Arabella. I also think that he was more than a bit high-handed at times. But he had his lessons to learn, just like Arabella did.
I'm sad to see this set of stories end, but I'm looking forward to seeing what is going to come next.
Arabella has secretly loved Thomas for a while, and spent this Season working on being good so that he can see her as a bridal candidate. It took a lot of work on her part and patience for her to curb some of her more exuberant tendencies. But, all that work is for naught as she overhears Thomas pointing out all her flaws to her brothers and explaining why she is not a candidate for him to marry. She doesn't meet the list of attributes he has, and she's just not right for him. Once she hears that, her heart breaks, and she decides that she doesn't need a love match after all.
I really enjoyed Arabella. She is just an awesome character, IMO. She is very much who she is and lives very much out loud. She loves to gallop her horse, she's fiercely protective of her friends, she wants to know everything that she can, and she doesn't stop pestering her friends to find out what she wants. Thomas made me mad sometimes. I don't think he was necessarily as realistic as he could have been about Arabella. I also think that he was more than a bit high-handed at times. But he had his lessons to learn, just like Arabella did.
I'm sad to see this set of stories end, but I'm looking forward to seeing what is going to come next.
June 1, 2018
Review Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
“Social repercussions, slow revelations, and such...”
I received an Advance Reader Copy for ARABELLA’S TAMING (Bridal Discipline, Book #5) written by Golden Angel and voluntarily reviewed this book. Impetuous, bold, sassy, and outspoken “Original” Arabella, sister to the Duke of Manchester, overhears during a private conversation that even her more accomplished qualities were not enough to offset her scathingly unapproved, unchecked behavior, she realized that she may have to resort to even more brazen tactics to get she wants.
Lord Thomas Hood, in line to be the next Viscount Hood, is having trouble finding the right woman to meet his exhaustive list of qualities suitable for a wife from this Season’s Haute Ton. But when his friend’s sister Arabella is suddenly spoken for, he finds himself incapable of staying away from her during social events. After all, Arabella has clearly been allowed to run wild and has no inkling of discipline, apparently. He didn’t want her, but she was not good enough for Society’s scandal-marked Marquess, either.
This author has amazing talent writing in this genre with this lovely and successfully entertaining story! As a reader, I found myself bristling with indignation for Arabella, for Thomas’ clear lack of perception during his search for a wife. Hats off to Arabella, who was true to herself, taking matters into her own hands for a better chance at a “love match” - and netting a man who thankfully had more redeeming facets which endeared him to her.
“Social repercussions, slow revelations, and such...”
I received an Advance Reader Copy for ARABELLA’S TAMING (Bridal Discipline, Book #5) written by Golden Angel and voluntarily reviewed this book. Impetuous, bold, sassy, and outspoken “Original” Arabella, sister to the Duke of Manchester, overhears during a private conversation that even her more accomplished qualities were not enough to offset her scathingly unapproved, unchecked behavior, she realized that she may have to resort to even more brazen tactics to get she wants.
Lord Thomas Hood, in line to be the next Viscount Hood, is having trouble finding the right woman to meet his exhaustive list of qualities suitable for a wife from this Season’s Haute Ton. But when his friend’s sister Arabella is suddenly spoken for, he finds himself incapable of staying away from her during social events. After all, Arabella has clearly been allowed to run wild and has no inkling of discipline, apparently. He didn’t want her, but she was not good enough for Society’s scandal-marked Marquess, either.
This author has amazing talent writing in this genre with this lovely and successfully entertaining story! As a reader, I found myself bristling with indignation for Arabella, for Thomas’ clear lack of perception during his search for a wife. Hats off to Arabella, who was true to herself, taking matters into her own hands for a better chance at a “love match” - and netting a man who thankfully had more redeeming facets which endeared him to her.
August 5, 2020
Misery loves company
Isabella was in her second season and she had finally given up hope that she was not going to get him. Thomas had a list of qualifications for his wife. And she didn't meet that list at all. So, she decided she would accept the most unacceptable rake as a suiter. Maybe friendship would work instead of love. Her Heart wouldn't be involved and she wouldn't be risking it. Plus, she could be as wild as she had always been. So, when the Marquee asked her brother to court her, he said yes. She got a little tipsy at one of the balls, and Gabrielle was trying to stop her. Thomas decided to take her in hand, but she decided if she was going to be miserable, so was he. So, she kissed him and caused them to fall into the fountain. In full view of many of the high ton. Then her brother came to rescue her and take her home, reputation ruined. She couldn't even care because she loved Thomas and he didn't want her. Thomas was an honorable man, so he came to ask for her hand. When he asked to marry her, she said yes. Now the battle was on. Thomas was a stiff prig, never smiling, ever dictating. He would learn and she would always have a sore bottom. You will have to read the book to see if they find even ground. Or maybe happy ever after. I am sad this is the end of this series. There are other characters hinted at, but their stories are untold. This is obviously an adult only book.
Isabella was in her second season and she had finally given up hope that she was not going to get him. Thomas had a list of qualifications for his wife. And she didn't meet that list at all. So, she decided she would accept the most unacceptable rake as a suiter. Maybe friendship would work instead of love. Her Heart wouldn't be involved and she wouldn't be risking it. Plus, she could be as wild as she had always been. So, when the Marquee asked her brother to court her, he said yes. She got a little tipsy at one of the balls, and Gabrielle was trying to stop her. Thomas decided to take her in hand, but she decided if she was going to be miserable, so was he. So, she kissed him and caused them to fall into the fountain. In full view of many of the high ton. Then her brother came to rescue her and take her home, reputation ruined. She couldn't even care because she loved Thomas and he didn't want her. Thomas was an honorable man, so he came to ask for her hand. When he asked to marry her, she said yes. Now the battle was on. Thomas was a stiff prig, never smiling, ever dictating. He would learn and she would always have a sore bottom. You will have to read the book to see if they find even ground. Or maybe happy ever after. I am sad this is the end of this series. There are other characters hinted at, but their stories are untold. This is obviously an adult only book.
August 24, 2023
Title: Arabella's Taming
Author: Golden Angel
Release Date: May 29th, 2018
Page Count: 236
Format: Audiobook
Start Date: August 5th, 2023
Finish Date: August 8th, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars
Review:
I was actually most excited about this series when I got into all of these. It seems very fitting to have Arabella for the last book in the series. I loved Gabriella and the dynamic between her and Arabella. She was nothing compared to Arabella though. Arabella has this bold and vivacious personality. She has this intense energy that I couldn't get enough of. She's referenced in every book in the series and I was so eager to see things from her point of view!
That being said, I was really hoping to see more in this book. That isn't a complaint. It's just an expectation that I had that didn't really hit well. Arabella seems to thrive on drama and scandal. If anything happened, she was really close by. It was like that for every single book. Despite it not being what I imagined it would be, this book was packed with everything I have come to expect with everybody in this society.
I love the writing style and energy of this author. If I'm being completely honest, I'm not the biggest fan of books that are heavier in smut. Not that I have anything against smut. It's just not my thing. Golden Angel's books are different for me. I can't put my finger on exactly why. I can say she's very unique. She also inspires a lot of thought provoking thoughts in every single book.
Author: Golden Angel
Release Date: May 29th, 2018
Page Count: 236
Format: Audiobook
Start Date: August 5th, 2023
Finish Date: August 8th, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars
Review:
I was actually most excited about this series when I got into all of these. It seems very fitting to have Arabella for the last book in the series. I loved Gabriella and the dynamic between her and Arabella. She was nothing compared to Arabella though. Arabella has this bold and vivacious personality. She has this intense energy that I couldn't get enough of. She's referenced in every book in the series and I was so eager to see things from her point of view!
That being said, I was really hoping to see more in this book. That isn't a complaint. It's just an expectation that I had that didn't really hit well. Arabella seems to thrive on drama and scandal. If anything happened, she was really close by. It was like that for every single book. Despite it not being what I imagined it would be, this book was packed with everything I have come to expect with everybody in this society.
I love the writing style and energy of this author. If I'm being completely honest, I'm not the biggest fan of books that are heavier in smut. Not that I have anything against smut. It's just not my thing. Golden Angel's books are different for me. I can't put my finger on exactly why. I can say she's very unique. She also inspires a lot of thought provoking thoughts in every single book.
May 30, 2018
I have read Golden Angel's Big Bad Bunnies series and thoroughly enjoyed them (a bit cheesy, loads of pop culture references, and snappy repartee - they are fun reads). So, when I was offered the opportunity to received a copy of this book for review, I jumped on it. Even though I own Philip's Rules, I have not read it, yet, and this is my first book in this series. I have read books in this genre before and the author does a great job of incorporating story with the spankings. I loved Arabella's personality and even though her heart was set on staid Thomas, I think I would have loved to see how she and Hartford would have gotten along (just imagine the mischief - I cannot wait for his book to come out). The story is appropriately named and I did enjoy seeing the changes in both Thomas and Arabella throughout the story. Being new to the series and having the previous couples make appearances does cause a little confusion, as there are so many, and unless you pay really strict attention when they are introduced in this story, it may be difficult to follow who is married to whom. Overall, it is a really good story without excessive sexy parts.
February 25, 2019
This is the last book of the series and it didn't disappointment me.
I think Golden Angel can see in my head. She writes how I think but I can never put it into words like she does. That's why she is the author and I am just the reader.
This is Thomas' and Arabella's story. Arabella wants to marry Thomas and finally gets her wish. Thomas doesn't realize his feelings for Arabella and his feelings unfolds as you read.
A nice romance with some really hot kinky scenes, especially the last one. I really enjoy how it seems the author is going down one route but ends up somewhere else. I am always pleasantly surprised. It was funny when Arabella would defy Thomas and how she would get in trouble.
This is the third series I've read from this author. In each series the characters have a group of friends and they rely on each other so much. The camaraderie between them all is amazing. I love how Cynthia stands up for Arabella and is so eloquent when she does. Then at the end Arabella tries to copy Cynthia and doesn't get the same results.
Great book.
I think Golden Angel can see in my head. She writes how I think but I can never put it into words like she does. That's why she is the author and I am just the reader.
This is Thomas' and Arabella's story. Arabella wants to marry Thomas and finally gets her wish. Thomas doesn't realize his feelings for Arabella and his feelings unfolds as you read.
A nice romance with some really hot kinky scenes, especially the last one. I really enjoy how it seems the author is going down one route but ends up somewhere else. I am always pleasantly surprised. It was funny when Arabella would defy Thomas and how she would get in trouble.
This is the third series I've read from this author. In each series the characters have a group of friends and they rely on each other so much. The camaraderie between them all is amazing. I love how Cynthia stands up for Arabella and is so eloquent when she does. Then at the end Arabella tries to copy Cynthia and doesn't get the same results.
Great book.
November 23, 2023
Arabella overhears Thomas tell her brother what he considers the perfect wife which criteria Arabella does not meet. She decides she will no longer try to be on her best behavior any longer since he does not want her as a bride. At a ball she gets drunk and initiates a kiss with Thomas while on the balcony with many witnesses. Thomas does the right thing and offers for her. Will they marry? Will they be happy?
I enjoyed this book. I wondered who would win their battle of strong wills. Both need to learn to communicate. Both think the worse of the other when things don't go their way. Arabella learns that what her friends told her is true. Thomas learns that Arabella will often go to extremes to prove him wrong.
I loved when Arabella realizes why Thomas did not want to marry her plus when she realizes he does not like seeing her with former suitors. It's almost like a light bulb goes on above her head.
When they both come to the same realizations at the same time, it was what we all needed.
I am going to miss this series. However, Mary and Hartford--minor characters here--begin a new series and I look forward to reading about them there.
I enjoyed this book. I wondered who would win their battle of strong wills. Both need to learn to communicate. Both think the worse of the other when things don't go their way. Arabella learns that what her friends told her is true. Thomas learns that Arabella will often go to extremes to prove him wrong.
I loved when Arabella realizes why Thomas did not want to marry her plus when she realizes he does not like seeing her with former suitors. It's almost like a light bulb goes on above her head.
When they both come to the same realizations at the same time, it was what we all needed.
I am going to miss this series. However, Mary and Hartford--minor characters here--begin a new series and I look forward to reading about them there.
January 3, 2019
I received an ARC of this story through Hidden Gems and this is my honest and voluntary review.
To start, I didn't realize this was part of a series when I signed up to read it. That being said, although it works as a standalone story, there were a few references to the previous stories that piqued my curiosity about what I was missing.
I really enjoyed reading Arabella and Thomas's story. There's not typically a whole lot of mention of kinks in regency romance stories, so that was a spicy little addition for me. Arabella absolutely cracked me up, I love her spirit and viewpoint. Thomas was a bit "meh" for me though. I am not sure I believe someone as fiery as Arabella would even be interested in someone like Thomas.... maybe their interactions in the previous books would have made this more believable. I still really enjoyed the book and will definitely have to go back and read the others!
To start, I didn't realize this was part of a series when I signed up to read it. That being said, although it works as a standalone story, there were a few references to the previous stories that piqued my curiosity about what I was missing.
I really enjoyed reading Arabella and Thomas's story. There's not typically a whole lot of mention of kinks in regency romance stories, so that was a spicy little addition for me. Arabella absolutely cracked me up, I love her spirit and viewpoint. Thomas was a bit "meh" for me though. I am not sure I believe someone as fiery as Arabella would even be interested in someone like Thomas.... maybe their interactions in the previous books would have made this more believable. I still really enjoyed the book and will definitely have to go back and read the others!
September 8, 2024
I liked the set-up of the novel, the idea that Arabella would trap Thomas out of spite. But it was also good that they came together rather quickly. I'm not a big fan of long drawn-out angst. I thought the part where the author made a point of the dynamics within the aristocracy such as marrying up or down, or even friendships between men of a lower and a higher title was interesting. Especially thinking that a lot of titles were not old at this point but George III had created quite a few.
In her end notes, the author writes how Mary and Hartford (and Walter) would get their own series. Well, frankly, my first thought when they met at that ball was that Mary and Hartford would end up together as a B-Plot. I felt rather cheated when that didn't happen especially with the constant hints that there was more to Mary than what she put on as an outside persona. So yes, well Mary/Hartford... I'd go for that.
In her end notes, the author writes how Mary and Hartford (and Walter) would get their own series. Well, frankly, my first thought when they met at that ball was that Mary and Hartford would end up together as a B-Plot. I felt rather cheated when that didn't happen especially with the constant hints that there was more to Mary than what she put on as an outside persona. So yes, well Mary/Hartford... I'd go for that.
May 30, 2018
I have read this author before but never this series. While this is the fifth book and the last in the series it can be read as a standalone. But after reading I'll definitely be reading the other books. This also will be a spin-off or two from this series I can't wait for. Arabella's been in love with Thomas for years and has changed her wild ways to be a fitting bride but he doesn't see any change. Thomas believes he wants the perfect bride which breaks Arabella's heart when she eavesdrop on the conversation. But when they are caught in a scandalous position of her own making he proposes to her. But she isn't going to make it easy on him she'll be the good bride until there married then she'll show him no one controls her. But Thomas knows how to get her in line and she's going to find herself with a sore bottom for her troubles.
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