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The Whickertons in Love #1
Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss
In this enemies-to-lovers regency romance by USA Today bestselling and HOLT Medallion winning author Bree Wolf, a head-strong lady and her devilishly charming nemesis find that fighting love only prolongs the inevitable.
He loves nothing better than to tease her.
She considers him her nemesis...
...until the day she does not.
England 1801: Lady Louisa, daughter to the Earl of Whickerton, never thought she would ever have reason enough to hate anyone; especially not Phineas Hawke, Viscount Barrington, the man with the most wickedly dark eyes she has ever seen.
Yet, at an innocent ball, Louisa is suddenly forced to realize that the man she could easily have lost her heart to has discovered her most shameful secret.
And that is not all.
Lord Barrington makes it a habit to tease her endlessly about it, his devilish grin and knowing eyes mocking her, testing her resolve time and time again. Struggling to maintain her composure, Louisa vows to never surrender, to never allow him to see how deeply his flippant words wound her. Anger settles in her heart, burying all tender emotions, as she tries her utmost to ignore him.
That, however, is easier said than done.
Phineas Hawke has known the lovely Lady Louisa almost all his life; not well, but at least from afar, they have always been acquainted. Her face is a familiar sight, and although he cannot deny that she possesses certain appealing charms, Phineas has never looked at her and seen someone other than simply one of Lord Whickerton’s daughters.
At least, not until another gentleman rather unexpectedly voices his partiality toward her.
Suddenly, Phineas realizes that the woman he has known all his life is one he has ignored for far too long, and to his utter dismay, she has come to loathe the very sight of him. Why? He does not know; however, he will not yield easily.
As it seems, neither will she.
If you enjoy wicked viscounts as well as head-strong ladies, fierce in their affections and daring in their search for their perfect match, then Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss is perfect for you!
He loves nothing better than to tease her.
She considers him her nemesis...
...until the day she does not.
England 1801: Lady Louisa, daughter to the Earl of Whickerton, never thought she would ever have reason enough to hate anyone; especially not Phineas Hawke, Viscount Barrington, the man with the most wickedly dark eyes she has ever seen.
Yet, at an innocent ball, Louisa is suddenly forced to realize that the man she could easily have lost her heart to has discovered her most shameful secret.
And that is not all.
Lord Barrington makes it a habit to tease her endlessly about it, his devilish grin and knowing eyes mocking her, testing her resolve time and time again. Struggling to maintain her composure, Louisa vows to never surrender, to never allow him to see how deeply his flippant words wound her. Anger settles in her heart, burying all tender emotions, as she tries her utmost to ignore him.
That, however, is easier said than done.
Phineas Hawke has known the lovely Lady Louisa almost all his life; not well, but at least from afar, they have always been acquainted. Her face is a familiar sight, and although he cannot deny that she possesses certain appealing charms, Phineas has never looked at her and seen someone other than simply one of Lord Whickerton’s daughters.
At least, not until another gentleman rather unexpectedly voices his partiality toward her.
Suddenly, Phineas realizes that the woman he has known all his life is one he has ignored for far too long, and to his utter dismay, she has come to loathe the very sight of him. Why? He does not know; however, he will not yield easily.
As it seems, neither will she.
If you enjoy wicked viscounts as well as head-strong ladies, fierce in their affections and daring in their search for their perfect match, then Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss is perfect for you!
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2021
1215 people are currently reading
866 people want to read
About the author
Bree Wolf
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Excited for my new series? The Flames of Winter Series:
An epic love story that spans across an entire series. Ensure that you have a good cup of tea, something to nibble on and perhaps a box of tissues at hand before you dive into this slow-burn Regency romance full of enchanting moments between Sarah and Keir, the little wisp and the highlander.
Excited for my new series? The Flames of Winter Series:
An epic love story that spans across an entire series. Ensure that you have a good cup of tea, something to nibble on and perhaps a box of tissues at hand before you dive into this slow-burn Regency romance full of enchanting moments between Sarah and Keir, the little wisp and the highlander.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
December 3, 2022
Dragged a little
Good story but just dragged a little throughout the book. I got a tiny bit bored several times but honestly it was worth reading. Definitely want to read more. The hero was interested in Louisa so he tried to discourage a friend from pursuing her and he said something that angered her and drove her to hate him for many years. He said it to put off the other guy but it was something she felt about herself. He kept teasing her and she thought he was being cruel but he actually cared. It got a little old after a while. And honestly I didn't see a Rake like he was supposed to be. He was a gentleman and a tad bit boring but I liked him. Louisa annoyed me but she finally came around. I have to keep reading to see what happens with Leonora. It was awful what happened to her. I definitely am interested in reading more!
Good story but just dragged a little throughout the book. I got a tiny bit bored several times but honestly it was worth reading. Definitely want to read more. The hero was interested in Louisa so he tried to discourage a friend from pursuing her and he said something that angered her and drove her to hate him for many years. He said it to put off the other guy but it was something she felt about herself. He kept teasing her and she thought he was being cruel but he actually cared. It got a little old after a while. And honestly I didn't see a Rake like he was supposed to be. He was a gentleman and a tad bit boring but I liked him. Louisa annoyed me but she finally came around. I have to keep reading to see what happens with Leonora. It was awful what happened to her. I definitely am interested in reading more!
January 17, 2021
'England 1801: LADY LOUISA, daughter to the EARL OF WHICKERTON, never thought she would ever have reason enough to hate anyone; especially not PHINEAS HAWKE, VISCOUNT BARRINGTON, the man with the most wickedly dark eyes she has ever seen.
Yet, at an innocent ball, Louisa is suddenly forced to realize that the man she could easily have lost her heart to has discovered her most shameful secret.
And that is not all.
Lord Barrington makes it a habit to tease her endlessly about it, his devilish grin and knowing eyes mocking her, testing her resolve time and time again. Struggling to maintain her composure, Louisa vows to never surrender, to never allow him to see how deeply his flippant words wound her. Anger settles in her heart, burying all tender emotions, as she tries her utmost to ignore him.
That, however, is easier said than done.
PHINEAS HAWKE has known the lovely LADY LOUISA almost all his life; not well, but at least from afar, they have always been acquainted. Her face is a familiar sight, and although he cannot deny that she possesses certain appealing charms, Phineas has never looked at her and seen someone other than simply one of Lord Whickerton’s daughters.
At least not, until another gentleman rather unexpectedly voices his partiality toward her.
Suddenly, Phineas realizes that the woman he has known all his life is one he has ignored for far too long, and to his utter dismay, she has come to loathe the very sight of him. Why? He does not know; however, he will not yield easily.
As it seems, neither will she.'
__________________________________
2.5 stars, rounded up to 3 stars.
Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss is the first book in a new series by historical romance author, Bree Wolf.
I must admit that I found this book a bit tiresome. I normally quite enjoy Bree's books, but I just couldn't get into this one. This first half of the book just felt like filler, just the same thing happening on repeat: Phineas attempts to engage Louisa in converstion, she automatically snaps at him and tries to storm off only for him to catch her or block her so that she can snap at him some more. Again and again this happened with only the difference of location. The book does however start to move forward for the second half of the book and I found it more enjoyable after that point, but I did really have to push myself to keep reading to get there. I know from looking at others' reviews that I seem to be in the minority here though, that others seem to have really enjoyed this book, so maybe this book just wasn't for me.
I found the enemies part of this book's enemies to lovers trope to be too heavy-handed, so that the extent of Louisa's anger was just ridiculous and quite unjustified. As a result, I could not find the will to care much for her character. I found her very childish. Her emotional intelligence was severely lacking for a grown woman, both in the way she fought against Phineas and in how she constantly hid from her own family, especially Leonora, instead of simply working toward bettering the situation. Her character was many times lauded on not backing away from a challenge when she could face it head on...but it seems to me that backing down is all she did for much of the book.
Phineas frustrated me by repeatedly seeking out Louisa, despite her treating him terribly every single time. Instead of just walking away as he should have done, time and again he would track her down and then stop her from leaving, honestly bordering into assult territory. I'm sure it was meant to be romantic... but I did not find it so at all.
Due to these reasons, I don't personally recommend this book, but it seems that many others have enjoyed it. I normally enjoy Bree Wolf's books, so I will be giving the next book in the series a read to see if I enjoy it more.
_____
I would like to thank the author, Bree Wolf, for sharing an eARC of Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss with me. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Yet, at an innocent ball, Louisa is suddenly forced to realize that the man she could easily have lost her heart to has discovered her most shameful secret.
And that is not all.
Lord Barrington makes it a habit to tease her endlessly about it, his devilish grin and knowing eyes mocking her, testing her resolve time and time again. Struggling to maintain her composure, Louisa vows to never surrender, to never allow him to see how deeply his flippant words wound her. Anger settles in her heart, burying all tender emotions, as she tries her utmost to ignore him.
That, however, is easier said than done.
PHINEAS HAWKE has known the lovely LADY LOUISA almost all his life; not well, but at least from afar, they have always been acquainted. Her face is a familiar sight, and although he cannot deny that she possesses certain appealing charms, Phineas has never looked at her and seen someone other than simply one of Lord Whickerton’s daughters.
At least not, until another gentleman rather unexpectedly voices his partiality toward her.
Suddenly, Phineas realizes that the woman he has known all his life is one he has ignored for far too long, and to his utter dismay, she has come to loathe the very sight of him. Why? He does not know; however, he will not yield easily.
As it seems, neither will she.'
__________________________________
2.5 stars, rounded up to 3 stars.
Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss is the first book in a new series by historical romance author, Bree Wolf.
I must admit that I found this book a bit tiresome. I normally quite enjoy Bree's books, but I just couldn't get into this one. This first half of the book just felt like filler, just the same thing happening on repeat: Phineas attempts to engage Louisa in converstion, she automatically snaps at him and tries to storm off only for him to catch her or block her so that she can snap at him some more. Again and again this happened with only the difference of location. The book does however start to move forward for the second half of the book and I found it more enjoyable after that point, but I did really have to push myself to keep reading to get there. I know from looking at others' reviews that I seem to be in the minority here though, that others seem to have really enjoyed this book, so maybe this book just wasn't for me.
I found the enemies part of this book's enemies to lovers trope to be too heavy-handed, so that the extent of Louisa's anger was just ridiculous and quite unjustified. As a result, I could not find the will to care much for her character. I found her very childish. Her emotional intelligence was severely lacking for a grown woman, both in the way she fought against Phineas and in how she constantly hid from her own family, especially Leonora, instead of simply working toward bettering the situation. Her character was many times lauded on not backing away from a challenge when she could face it head on...but it seems to me that backing down is all she did for much of the book.
Phineas frustrated me by repeatedly seeking out Louisa, despite her treating him terribly every single time. Instead of just walking away as he should have done, time and again he would track her down and then stop her from leaving, honestly bordering into assult territory. I'm sure it was meant to be romantic... but I did not find it so at all.
Due to these reasons, I don't personally recommend this book, but it seems that many others have enjoyed it. I normally enjoy Bree Wolf's books, so I will be giving the next book in the series a read to see if I enjoy it more.
_____
I would like to thank the author, Bree Wolf, for sharing an eARC of Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss with me. This is my honest and voluntary review.
August 27, 2021
For a clean romance, this book is heavy on the dub con. The hero is constantly forcing the heroine into corners, into kisses, holding her in place, etc. I usually don’t mind a little of this kind of behavior, but this was really over the top and off-putting.
Also, the book literally goes from rather boring and slow-moving to suddenly, the heroine’s sister is raped at a party. It was like whiplash and I couldn’t believe I was reading the same book for a moment.
I think that about 1/3 of this book could have been cut and the story would have lost nothing meaningful.
I’m not even sure that this book deserves 2 stars.
Also, the book literally goes from rather boring and slow-moving to suddenly, the heroine’s sister is raped at a party. It was like whiplash and I couldn’t believe I was reading the same book for a moment.
I think that about 1/3 of this book could have been cut and the story would have lost nothing meaningful.
I’m not even sure that this book deserves 2 stars.
January 14, 2021
Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss, Bree Wolf. I found this a fantastic joy to read. Bree, caught me off guard with the humor in this book. I found the book very entertaining. Page after page I enjoyed reading the romantic and enchanting love story between Phin and Louisa or Lulu as Phineas likes to call her.
The book is very easy to read. The drama and the constant back forth banter between Phin and Louisa keeps the pace of the story going. The drama is not to intense, but it keeps the stoke of the fire burning between our main couple. I love the charm of this book. It’s the almost cat and mouse game that Phin and Louisa play with one another.
The book is very realistic. And I found the book to be inspirational. There are wonderful characters that add some whimsical moments in there. I love the Grandmother and Sir Lancelot. If you are looking for a humorous romantic story to read then I recommend this book. Until next time my fellow readers... read on. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
The book is very easy to read. The drama and the constant back forth banter between Phin and Louisa keeps the pace of the story going. The drama is not to intense, but it keeps the stoke of the fire burning between our main couple. I love the charm of this book. It’s the almost cat and mouse game that Phin and Louisa play with one another.
The book is very realistic. And I found the book to be inspirational. There are wonderful characters that add some whimsical moments in there. I love the Grandmother and Sir Lancelot. If you are looking for a humorous romantic story to read then I recommend this book. Until next time my fellow readers... read on. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 15, 2023
Honestly buying this book was a bit of an accident.
I did a search on a favorite author of historical romance (Maggie Fenton) and this book popped up. I bought it without even noticing it wasn't by her. Another thing audible can't get right. Oh well.
Anyway, I paid my money and didn't have much else on so I decided to read it. And it's not bad. Fairly typical of Regency Romance and (personal opinion) a bit overdone. But not bad.
I did a search on a favorite author of historical romance (Maggie Fenton) and this book popped up. I bought it without even noticing it wasn't by her. Another thing audible can't get right. Oh well.
Anyway, I paid my money and didn't have much else on so I decided to read it. And it's not bad. Fairly typical of Regency Romance and (personal opinion) a bit overdone. But not bad.
February 11, 2021
The synopsis grabbed my attention and I'm always a sucker for a good enemies-to-lovers story so I thought I'd give this one a try. I was quickly drawn into the story and connecting with the characters. I loved the relationship between Phin and Louisa, their banter and fighting and of course swoony chemistry. These types tropes can be tricky, you don't want the fighting to drag out too long or the softening to happen too quickly, I thought there was a good balance with this story. Louisa's hesitation was warranted, but once the time comes she doesn't withhold her forgiveness. Phin has no idea why Louisa despises him and no idea how to approach her, so he resorts to teasing and making some mistakes along the way, but he never gives up on her. I really enjoyed their story and watching their relationship evolve.
This is a pretty light read, the romance is sweet and swoony. I really enjoyed that the story takes place over about a year, instead of a week or two during the Season. I liked the supporting cast and look forward to reading about Louisa's siblings in future books. Having said that, there is a side story that happens that does put a damper on the story and was, for me, unexpected. It does set up for the next book, but it didn't really fit with the feel of Louisa's story up to that point, so it lessened my enjoyment of the book overall. Still a great read though.
Content PG13
Romance: Kissing, lots of kissing. ;)
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Mild
This is a pretty light read, the romance is sweet and swoony. I really enjoyed that the story takes place over about a year, instead of a week or two during the Season. I liked the supporting cast and look forward to reading about Louisa's siblings in future books. Having said that, there is a side story that happens that does put a damper on the story and was, for me, unexpected. It does set up for the next book, but it didn't really fit with the feel of Louisa's story up to that point, so it lessened my enjoyment of the book overall. Still a great read though.
Content PG13
Romance: Kissing, lots of kissing. ;)
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Mild
January 7, 2021
Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss
The Whickertons in Love Series #1
Bree Wolf
https://www.facebook.com/breewolf.nov...
Release Date 01/14/2021
Publisher WOLF Publishing
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
In this enemies-to-lovers regency romance by USA Today bestselling and HOLT Medallion winning author Bree Wolf, a head-strong lady and her devilishly charming nemesis find that fighting love only prolongs the inevitable.
He loves nothing better than to tease her. She considers him her nemesis… …until the day she does not.
England 1801: LADY LOUISA, daughter to the EARL OF WHICKERTON, never thought she would ever have reason enough to hate anyone; especially not PHINEAS HAWKE, VISCOUNT BARRINGTON, the man with the most wickedly dark eyes she has ever seen.
Yet, at an innocent ball, Louisa is suddenly forced to realize that the man she could easily have lost her heart to has discovered her most shameful secret.
And that is not all.
Lord Barrington makes it a habit to tease her endlessly about it, his devilish grin and knowing eyes mocking her, testing her resolve time and time again. Struggling to maintain her composure, Louisa vows to never surrender, to never allow him to see how deeply his flippant words wound her. Anger settles in her heart, burying all tender emotions, as she tries her utmost to ignore him.
That, however, is easier said than done.
PHINEAS HAWKE has known the lovely LADY LOUISA almost all his life; not well, but at least from afar, they have always been acquainted. Her face is a familiar sight, and although he cannot deny that she possesses certain appealing charms, Phineas has never looked at her and seen someone other than simply one of Lord Whickerton’s daughters.
At least not, until another gentleman rather unexpectedly voices his partiality toward her.
Suddenly, Phineas realizes that the woman he has known all his life is one he has ignored for far too long, and to his utter dismay, she has come to loathe the very sight of him. Why? He does not know; however, he will not yield easily.
As it seems, neither will she.
If you enjoy wicked viscounts as well as head-strong ladies, fierce in their affections and daring in their search for their perfect match, then ONCE UPON A DEVILISHLY ENCHANTING KISS is perfect for you!
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he stand a chance when she made her mission in life to hate him ...
I love tales about people who despite their impediment put up the pretense to such a level, nobody knows about it. And when revealed, they come out a winner.
Louisa while ashamed learned to live with her illiteracy, she avoided everything that might expose her, until she overhears a man she thought she had a tendre for, disparaging her intellect.
Those reckless words seal his fate, from now on, she loaths, despises him.
Phineas uttered without thinking those merciless words then forgot them. Why he can’t find a reason for Louisa’s loathing of his person. He is a fun and lighthearted fellow. He lives for the joy of life, and while he does not understand Louisa’s sudden shift of mood, he also sensed what made her react. And if he can’t have her smile, he will have her ire.
From there began a battle of wits where barbs are bullets and kisses small dressings.
Phineas enters uncharted territories with a Louisa determined to avoid him at all cost and the whys still remaining the dark.
If not for their over the top chemistry, they would have probably gave up on the others.
It is a romance sure, but it also explores the bonds between families. Louisa like all her siblings has her own talent, each of her sisters and unique brother has its own secret garden, yet together they stand for each other, never letting anything coming between them.
Both make mistakes, Louisa in her recklessness harmed unwillingly her sister all the while Phineas had to fight his younger self and the indelible mark he left with his uncaring words plus his own fear of commitment.
Flawed they are, more human and so much more complex than easily painted pretty characters.
4.5 stars
One complain, why a so long blurb....
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 lot of kissing
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
The Whickertons in Love Series #1
Bree Wolf
https://www.facebook.com/breewolf.nov...
Release Date 01/14/2021
Publisher WOLF Publishing
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
In this enemies-to-lovers regency romance by USA Today bestselling and HOLT Medallion winning author Bree Wolf, a head-strong lady and her devilishly charming nemesis find that fighting love only prolongs the inevitable.
He loves nothing better than to tease her. She considers him her nemesis… …until the day she does not.
England 1801: LADY LOUISA, daughter to the EARL OF WHICKERTON, never thought she would ever have reason enough to hate anyone; especially not PHINEAS HAWKE, VISCOUNT BARRINGTON, the man with the most wickedly dark eyes she has ever seen.
Yet, at an innocent ball, Louisa is suddenly forced to realize that the man she could easily have lost her heart to has discovered her most shameful secret.
And that is not all.
Lord Barrington makes it a habit to tease her endlessly about it, his devilish grin and knowing eyes mocking her, testing her resolve time and time again. Struggling to maintain her composure, Louisa vows to never surrender, to never allow him to see how deeply his flippant words wound her. Anger settles in her heart, burying all tender emotions, as she tries her utmost to ignore him.
That, however, is easier said than done.
PHINEAS HAWKE has known the lovely LADY LOUISA almost all his life; not well, but at least from afar, they have always been acquainted. Her face is a familiar sight, and although he cannot deny that she possesses certain appealing charms, Phineas has never looked at her and seen someone other than simply one of Lord Whickerton’s daughters.
At least not, until another gentleman rather unexpectedly voices his partiality toward her.
Suddenly, Phineas realizes that the woman he has known all his life is one he has ignored for far too long, and to his utter dismay, she has come to loathe the very sight of him. Why? He does not know; however, he will not yield easily.
As it seems, neither will she.
If you enjoy wicked viscounts as well as head-strong ladies, fierce in their affections and daring in their search for their perfect match, then ONCE UPON A DEVILISHLY ENCHANTING KISS is perfect for you!
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he stand a chance when she made her mission in life to hate him ...
I love tales about people who despite their impediment put up the pretense to such a level, nobody knows about it. And when revealed, they come out a winner.
Louisa while ashamed learned to live with her illiteracy, she avoided everything that might expose her, until she overhears a man she thought she had a tendre for, disparaging her intellect.
Those reckless words seal his fate, from now on, she loaths, despises him.
Phineas uttered without thinking those merciless words then forgot them. Why he can’t find a reason for Louisa’s loathing of his person. He is a fun and lighthearted fellow. He lives for the joy of life, and while he does not understand Louisa’s sudden shift of mood, he also sensed what made her react. And if he can’t have her smile, he will have her ire.
From there began a battle of wits where barbs are bullets and kisses small dressings.
Phineas enters uncharted territories with a Louisa determined to avoid him at all cost and the whys still remaining the dark.
If not for their over the top chemistry, they would have probably gave up on the others.
It is a romance sure, but it also explores the bonds between families. Louisa like all her siblings has her own talent, each of her sisters and unique brother has its own secret garden, yet together they stand for each other, never letting anything coming between them.
Both make mistakes, Louisa in her recklessness harmed unwillingly her sister all the while Phineas had to fight his younger self and the indelible mark he left with his uncaring words plus his own fear of commitment.
Flawed they are, more human and so much more complex than easily painted pretty characters.
4.5 stars
One complain, why a so long blurb....
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 lot of kissing
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
April 5, 2021
Very wordy without much plot progression
Clean romance. Sister of the heroine falls victim to a sexual assault. Heroine struggles with learning to read. The heroine has a cool grandma. Hero loves the heroine even though she is rude to him most of the time. A romance novel should not be this painful and drawn out to read.
Clean romance. Sister of the heroine falls victim to a sexual assault. Heroine struggles with learning to read. The heroine has a cool grandma. Hero loves the heroine even though she is rude to him most of the time. A romance novel should not be this painful and drawn out to read.
October 14, 2023
I was looking for something free, clean, and regency. This popped up on the list (and also the Swoony Awards), so I decided to give it a go. I enjoyed it so much that I quickly grabbed book two that focuses on the sister (and there are other books too about the rest of the fam!).
This one has an interesting premise. The FL an ML have known each other since childhood. The ML, with feelings for her, likes to tease her. The FL, not quite knowing his feelings for her, takes it quite personally. During one of the family parties, she overhears him making an off-handed comment about how he didn't think she could read... not knowing she has a disability with reading. Thinking he figured this out, she takes it personally and absolutely abhors any sort of connection with him. He does however kiss her, which is where the title of the book comes from... and when things start becoming complicated...
Which leads to the bulk of the story. He is absolutely smitten with her, but because she refuses to give in to his charms and advances (due to what she has overheard), it leaves him trying to take alternatives. I liked how he tried to take alternatives to try to woo her, and prove that his offhanded comment was not quite what he was intending by saying it. There is also focus on the sister who is rather introverted, uses deductions, and is book smart. She runs into her own man and her book is the second in the series.
All in all, I really enjoyed it! For a free book, and a clean romance? Yes. I'd continue with this author and series.
This one has an interesting premise. The FL an ML have known each other since childhood. The ML, with feelings for her, likes to tease her. The FL, not quite knowing his feelings for her, takes it quite personally. During one of the family parties, she overhears him making an off-handed comment about how he didn't think she could read... not knowing she has a disability with reading. Thinking he figured this out, she takes it personally and absolutely abhors any sort of connection with him. He does however kiss her, which is where the title of the book comes from... and when things start becoming complicated...
Which leads to the bulk of the story. He is absolutely smitten with her, but because she refuses to give in to his charms and advances (due to what she has overheard), it leaves him trying to take alternatives. I liked how he tried to take alternatives to try to woo her, and prove that his offhanded comment was not quite what he was intending by saying it. There is also focus on the sister who is rather introverted, uses deductions, and is book smart. She runs into her own man and her book is the second in the series.
All in all, I really enjoyed it! For a free book, and a clean romance? Yes. I'd continue with this author and series.
February 13, 2021
Enjoyable but with parts that were not so much. I will refer the rest of my review to just say “ditto” to my friend Kathy’s. I couldn’t say it better then her. ;)
May 8, 2021
In “Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss”, Bree Wolf has composed a Regency romance with a beguiling cast of characters.
Read full review in the 2021 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 3, 2023
2⭐️
I’m so disappointed this was my first read of the new year. 😂 I was wanting fluffy romance, but instead I got an annoying “enemies to lovers” book with an incredibly unlikable main heroine. And I love enemies to lovers tropes! (Not that I was expecting any spice, I should mention that this was a 0 on the spice meter in case that’s what you’re looking for.)
Louisa’s huffiness and rudeness was over exaggerated. And once I thought her and Phineas were doing great, she overreacts and gets all upset again. Phineas deserved SO much better.
This book was childish and such a let down. I was expecting something happy, dramatic, funny, and romantic like the Bridgerton series. But almost every dramatic moment made me roll my eyes. And there was no humor in this book. I was bored. Leonora was the only heroine I cared for, but I cannot bring myself to read the next book even though it’s about her.
All that to say, this book does have a happy ending for Louisa and Phineas, as expected, but I don’t think it’s worth reading to get to that point. This book could’ve been much shorter. But if you like painfully cheesy and annoyingly childish “romance” books, then go for it.
I’m so disappointed this was my first read of the new year. 😂 I was wanting fluffy romance, but instead I got an annoying “enemies to lovers” book with an incredibly unlikable main heroine. And I love enemies to lovers tropes! (Not that I was expecting any spice, I should mention that this was a 0 on the spice meter in case that’s what you’re looking for.)
Louisa’s huffiness and rudeness was over exaggerated. And once I thought her and Phineas were doing great, she overreacts and gets all upset again. Phineas deserved SO much better.
This book was childish and such a let down. I was expecting something happy, dramatic, funny, and romantic like the Bridgerton series. But almost every dramatic moment made me roll my eyes. And there was no humor in this book. I was bored. Leonora was the only heroine I cared for, but I cannot bring myself to read the next book even though it’s about her.
All that to say, this book does have a happy ending for Louisa and Phineas, as expected, but I don’t think it’s worth reading to get to that point. This book could’ve been much shorter. But if you like painfully cheesy and annoyingly childish “romance” books, then go for it.
January 26, 2022
Dropped at 10%. I tried but oh man I couldn’t get any further. So cliché (in a bad way) and repetitive; ugh gimme a break
Male lead forced female lead into corners and hallways, wouldn’t let her pass. Female lead just hissed at him to get away and not touch her. I was reading the same scenario again and again.
Male lead forced female lead into corners and hallways, wouldn’t let her pass. Female lead just hissed at him to get away and not touch her. I was reading the same scenario again and again.
January 8, 2021
England 1801: Lady Louisa, daughter to the Earl of Whickerton, never thought she would ever have reason enough to hate anyone; especially not Phineas Hawke, Viscount Barrington, the man with the most wickedly dark eyes she has ever seen. Yet, at an innocent ball, Louisa is suddenly forced to realize that the man she could easily have lost her heart to has discovered her most shameful secret. Phin has known the lovely Louisa almost all his life but she’s recently come to loath him just when he’s discovered she’s the woman for him
This is the start of a new series & a lovely enemies to lovers story. Another well written page turning read. The characters have lovely depth & on the whole they are all likeable whilst I loved both Phin & Louisa it was Grandma Edie who stole the book for me & I hope her all seeing eyes & machinations feature in future books. I loved the rocky road to Phin & Louisa's HEA especially that things happened over a period of time, which made it far more believable. I also thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the other Whickerton siblings & hope they too find their soul mates especially Juliet & Leonora.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the start of a new series & a lovely enemies to lovers story. Another well written page turning read. The characters have lovely depth & on the whole they are all likeable whilst I loved both Phin & Louisa it was Grandma Edie who stole the book for me & I hope her all seeing eyes & machinations feature in future books. I loved the rocky road to Phin & Louisa's HEA especially that things happened over a period of time, which made it far more believable. I also thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the other Whickerton siblings & hope they too find their soul mates especially Juliet & Leonora.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 7, 2021
Absolutely swoon worthy!
How would you handle an issue such as an adult who never learned to read? If you are alive, as I assume you are if you are reading this review, then most likely you have experienced this issue or know someone who has. This issue and more was expertly handled in this engaging story. As usual, Ms Bree Wolf writes these issues into a wonderful story of kissing, teasing, anger, embarrassment, self loathing, kindness, understanding, more kissing, banter, laughter, dancing, more kissing....Can you get the picture? I absolutely adore the characters in this book. This story is mostly centered around Phineas and Louisa but touch upon other family members as well. The romance between Phineas and Louisa was absolutely swoon worthy. They could not keep from kissing each other (thus the title, but rest assured this is a sweet, clean read). Phineas had a tendency to tease Louisa relentlessly which infuriated Louisa. She had a secret, the inability to read, which she was totally ashamed of. She was furious with Phineas thinking he had learned of her secret and had told someone about it. Unfortunately, Louisa harbored this misunderstanding for two years until she blurted it out to Phineas in her anger. He was totally flabbergasted not realizing she had this learning disability. Eventually he was able to think of ways to help her learn to read and when the family was told about it they each had suggestions of ways to help her. I loved the way this family was so understanding and pulled together to help each other. They were very clever with their ideas and they were a total success. I love the happy ending but Ms Bree has a way of sneaking in a little nugget that will have you anticipating the next book in this series, and I do. I highly recommend reading this.
How would you handle an issue such as an adult who never learned to read? If you are alive, as I assume you are if you are reading this review, then most likely you have experienced this issue or know someone who has. This issue and more was expertly handled in this engaging story. As usual, Ms Bree Wolf writes these issues into a wonderful story of kissing, teasing, anger, embarrassment, self loathing, kindness, understanding, more kissing, banter, laughter, dancing, more kissing....Can you get the picture? I absolutely adore the characters in this book. This story is mostly centered around Phineas and Louisa but touch upon other family members as well. The romance between Phineas and Louisa was absolutely swoon worthy. They could not keep from kissing each other (thus the title, but rest assured this is a sweet, clean read). Phineas had a tendency to tease Louisa relentlessly which infuriated Louisa. She had a secret, the inability to read, which she was totally ashamed of. She was furious with Phineas thinking he had learned of her secret and had told someone about it. Unfortunately, Louisa harbored this misunderstanding for two years until she blurted it out to Phineas in her anger. He was totally flabbergasted not realizing she had this learning disability. Eventually he was able to think of ways to help her learn to read and when the family was told about it they each had suggestions of ways to help her. I loved the way this family was so understanding and pulled together to help each other. They were very clever with their ideas and they were a total success. I love the happy ending but Ms Bree has a way of sneaking in a little nugget that will have you anticipating the next book in this series, and I do. I highly recommend reading this.
December 20, 2021
Unfortunately this was a DNF. I just couldn’t take it anymore. I liked the story and the characters to begin with but then it just dragged and dragged on! Both the hero and heroine being ridiculous towards each other and the heroine being selfish 9 times out of 10. When she puts herself and her sister in danger and then something terrible happens to her sister I was done. I can’t bring myself to finish. Honestly, I got too bored. I don’t see myself picking up another of her novels.
January 5, 2022
ONCE UPON A DEVILISHLY ENCHANTING KISS: LOUISA and PHINEAS are neighbors and friends. LOUISA overhears PHINEAS make a disparaging remark about her that betrays a deeply held secret, and from this point loathes him. In the meantime something ‘bad’ happens to her sister LEONORA. What follows is a tedious dissection of LOUISA and PHINEAS loathing that turns to love. Their Is frequent yet unresolved consequence from LEONORA’S experience… a frustrating read. Two stars is generous.
January 15, 2021
This was a fast-paced, swoon-worthy read, that I found I did not want to put down! The story was exciting with characters that are realistic and likable. It is everything you could want in a rousing romp through the pages of a historical romance and more!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
Want to read
January 13, 2021Nominated for a 2021 Swoony Award, to vote click here: https://tinyurl.com/y593ce67
July 28, 2024
4.5 stars
March 19, 2025
He Went From Her Bane to Her Beloved
In the previous book of this entertaining series (read Once Upon a Kiss Gone Horribly Wrong in the newly released Mistletoe and Mayhem), I really liked both Phineas Hawke and Louisa Beaumont. Their secondary roles where both pivotal and well developed. Sadly, Phineas had already managed to alienate Louisa, thereby ending any possibility of them ever becoming friends, much less sweethearts.
Bree Wolf gives these two interesting characters a second chance in Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss. Well guarded secrets are revealed, physical attraction is acknowledged and both of these two likable characters finally realize their own happily-ever-after.
Content 411: Other than some passionate kissing, this well-written book is sweet and clean. I recommend this book for all age readers.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
In the previous book of this entertaining series (read Once Upon a Kiss Gone Horribly Wrong in the newly released Mistletoe and Mayhem), I really liked both Phineas Hawke and Louisa Beaumont. Their secondary roles where both pivotal and well developed. Sadly, Phineas had already managed to alienate Louisa, thereby ending any possibility of them ever becoming friends, much less sweethearts.
Bree Wolf gives these two interesting characters a second chance in Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kiss. Well guarded secrets are revealed, physical attraction is acknowledged and both of these two likable characters finally realize their own happily-ever-after.
Content 411: Other than some passionate kissing, this well-written book is sweet and clean. I recommend this book for all age readers.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
November 29, 2022
I honestly couldn’t handle Phin. He was smug and obnoxious and honestly a bit emotionally abusive IMO. Constantly blocking Louisa from going places, grabbing and restraining her when she asks to be at go, pulling her into dark corners, putting his face really close to hers, teasing and making fun of her when she asked him repeatedly to stop, threatening her when she didn’t respond the way he wants to situations, laughing at her when she was being serious, etc. He seemed narcissistic, manipulative and domineering, but that was apparently his way of showing her how much he liked her. No thank you. That’s called gaslightingX Is this what young women find romantic in male characters? Yuck. This book made me so uncomfortable.
January 24, 2024
Honestly couldn't get all the way through this one. A harsh and condescending Phineas, says some wretched things about Louisa to someone else and she overhears. She then hates his very being, and he sees this as an invitation to invade her space, torment her, use a name she dislikes, and follow her around. What follows is kisses with no consent, a grandmother who leaves him in her room while she's sleeping, and him carrying her around despite her asking him to stop.
"She'd stop me if she really didn't like it."
"She doesn't like me and it bothers me."
Essentially, she must really want me, even when she and everyone else says she hates me. I must convince her otherwise, because it bothers me.
No thanks.
"She'd stop me if she really didn't like it."
"She doesn't like me and it bothers me."
Essentially, she must really want me, even when she and everyone else says she hates me. I must convince her otherwise, because it bothers me.
No thanks.
January 21, 2021
I've read other books by this author. (I've enjoyed most of her "Love's Second Chance" series.) Those tend to be darker. She should stick with those. This would have been better if it were a novella. It was just sooooo long. I ended up cheating, and reading the last chapter, just to get it over with. Don't think I'll bother with the next book in there series until it goes on sale at a discounted price at some point.
February 4, 2022
DNF @ 13% I don’t think I’ve ever given up this early on a book, but apparently the author doesn’t know the phrase “No means no.” Just because this is a romance and we all know it ends HEA doesn’t forgive the H from being a douche. I literally hated this book from the first chapter.
May 22, 2023
Repetitious drivel
The same theme expounded upon ad infinitum. Unbelievable characters with no depth and several glaring errors in continuity. Such a shame as I had been looking forward to reading this.
The same theme expounded upon ad infinitum. Unbelievable characters with no depth and several glaring errors in continuity. Such a shame as I had been looking forward to reading this.
November 19, 2021
By the middle of the book I started to get bored. It is very repetitive and takes forever to progress.
March 22, 2022
Reads like it was written by a 10 year old
March 28, 2022
I’m around 25 pages in. I don’t understand the high reviews. Why are there so many exclamation marks!!
May 7, 2022
This was ...
Bad. It was Just so bad. And so many exclamation marks, it read as though everyone was constantly yelling everything.
Bad. It was Just so bad. And so many exclamation marks, it read as though everyone was constantly yelling everything.
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