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Cynster Next Generation #9
The Games Lovers Play
#1 New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Laurens returns to the Cynsters’ next generation with an evocative tale of two people striving to overcome unusual hurdles in order to claim true love.
A nobleman wedded to the lady he loves strives to overwrite five years of masterful pretence and open his wife’s eyes to the fact that he loves her as much as she loves him.
Lord Devlin Cader, Earl of Alverton, married Therese Cynster five years ago. What he didn’t tell her then and has assiduously hidden ever since—for what seemed excellent reasons at the time—is that he loves her every bit as much as she loves him.
For her own misguided reasons, Therese had decided that the adage that Cynsters always marry for love did not necessarily mean said Cynsters were loved in return. She accepted that was usually so, but being universally viewed by gentlemen as too managing, bossy, and opinionated, she believed she would never be loved for herself. Consequently, after falling irrevocably in love with Devlin, when he made it plain he didn’t love her yet wanted her to wife, she accepted the half love-match he offered, and once they were wed, set about organizing to make their marriage the very best it could be.
Now, five years later, they are an established couple within the haut ton, have three young children, and Devlin is making a name for himself in business and political circles. There’s only one problem. Having attended numerous Cynster weddings and family gatherings and spent time with Therese’s increasingly married cousins, who with their spouses all embrace the Cynster ideal of marriage based on mutually acknowledged love, Devlin is no longer content with the half love-match he himself engineered. No fool, he sees and comprehends what the craven act of denying his love is costing both him and Therese and feels compelled to rectify his fault. He wants for them what all Therese’s married cousins enjoy—the rich and myriad benefits of marriages based on acknowledged mutual love.
Love, he’s discovered, is too powerful a force to deny, leaving him wrestling with the conundrum of finding a way to convincingly reveal to Therese that he loves her without wrecking everything—especially the mutual trust—they’ve built over the past five years.
A classic historical romance set amid the glittering world of the London haut ton. A Cynster Next Generation novel—a full-length historical romance of 110,000 words.
A nobleman wedded to the lady he loves strives to overwrite five years of masterful pretence and open his wife’s eyes to the fact that he loves her as much as she loves him.
Lord Devlin Cader, Earl of Alverton, married Therese Cynster five years ago. What he didn’t tell her then and has assiduously hidden ever since—for what seemed excellent reasons at the time—is that he loves her every bit as much as she loves him.
For her own misguided reasons, Therese had decided that the adage that Cynsters always marry for love did not necessarily mean said Cynsters were loved in return. She accepted that was usually so, but being universally viewed by gentlemen as too managing, bossy, and opinionated, she believed she would never be loved for herself. Consequently, after falling irrevocably in love with Devlin, when he made it plain he didn’t love her yet wanted her to wife, she accepted the half love-match he offered, and once they were wed, set about organizing to make their marriage the very best it could be.
Now, five years later, they are an established couple within the haut ton, have three young children, and Devlin is making a name for himself in business and political circles. There’s only one problem. Having attended numerous Cynster weddings and family gatherings and spent time with Therese’s increasingly married cousins, who with their spouses all embrace the Cynster ideal of marriage based on mutually acknowledged love, Devlin is no longer content with the half love-match he himself engineered. No fool, he sees and comprehends what the craven act of denying his love is costing both him and Therese and feels compelled to rectify his fault. He wants for them what all Therese’s married cousins enjoy—the rich and myriad benefits of marriages based on acknowledged mutual love.
Love, he’s discovered, is too powerful a force to deny, leaving him wrestling with the conundrum of finding a way to convincingly reveal to Therese that he loves her without wrecking everything—especially the mutual trust—they’ve built over the past five years.
A classic historical romance set amid the glittering world of the London haut ton. A Cynster Next Generation novel—a full-length historical romance of 110,000 words.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2021
346 people are currently reading
722 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Laurens
207 books5,592 followersStephanie Laurens was born in Sri Lanka, which was at the time the British colony of Ceylon. When she was 5, her family moved to Melbourne, Australia, where she was raised. After continuing through school and earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry in Australia, Stephanie and her husband moved to Great Britain, taking one of the last true overland journeys from Katmandu to London.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
March 20, 2021
I picked this book up expecting pining and wooing. Instead, this book is 322 pages of the Earl and Countess of Alverton swanning around ballrooms and garden parties, dazzling a neverending stream of peers whose names you won't remember and who serve no other function than to demonstrate the social, political, and business prowess of the main couple.
There are no games the lover plays. There are hardly any demonstrations of love at all. The entire conflict, from cover to cover, is based on misunderstandings that could easily be resolve with a single, honest conversation. And the sum total of the methods Devlin undertakes to persuade his wife he loves her are . Most of those aren't romantic or anything beyond what you'd just expect a dude to do.
If you're interested in how Victorian power couples played society like a fiddle, you will love this book. If you were looking for a romance where a man wins over his wife...eh.
There are no games the lover plays. There are hardly any demonstrations of love at all. The entire conflict, from cover to cover, is based on misunderstandings that could easily be resolve with a single, honest conversation. And the sum total of the methods Devlin undertakes to persuade his wife he loves her are . Most of those aren't romantic or anything beyond what you'd just expect a dude to do.
If you're interested in how Victorian power couples played society like a fiddle, you will love this book. If you were looking for a romance where a man wins over his wife...eh.
March 22, 2021
This is my first Laurens after a very long break. And I now know why. I had forgotten the 10+ page sex scenes 😀. However the story was inexplicable. For 5 years the hero has been keeping his wife at arms length. Not telling her that he loves her will protect him I guess from something, I am not sure what. Because if she leaves or dies, he will still be hurt regardless of whether she knows or not. So it boils down to pride. He is secure in the knowledge that his wife loves him while he does not step up to give her the same courtesy.
Worse he manipulates her into chasing him to get him to marry her to feed his male ego. But leaves her hanging, unsure of him and always at a disadvantage because he has made sure she knows that he has done a favor by marrying her. So after 5 years he decides he will tell her all about his love. But not that he has loved her all along. Just make her feel that he has grown to love her. And why you may ask this change of heart. Not because she is worth telling that he loves her. Oh no. Its because he wants to be like the rest of the Cynsters. Since they flaunt their love matches, he should get to as well. So he then decides to start spending a bit more time with his wife, but always making sure that he tells her that he is not doing it for her. There is always another reason for him to just show up a random ball that she is at. Got to keeping her insecure. Cant give her too much power over him. This continues for far too long, with random characters making appearances and teasing interesting sidebars which go nowhere. I started skimming at this point so maybe something did happen but I bet not. Anyway 80% out of the blue crisis later, he confesses all his love. Wife is amazed that he's loved her from day 1 treated her like crap for no reason, manipulated her into an insecure position annnnd she shrugs and goes with it. No challenging this bizzare behavior. Just so grateful to be loved that all is happiness. Seriously, why did I read this book.
Worse he manipulates her into chasing him to get him to marry her to feed his male ego. But leaves her hanging, unsure of him and always at a disadvantage because he has made sure she knows that he has done a favor by marrying her. So after 5 years he decides he will tell her all about his love. But not that he has loved her all along. Just make her feel that he has grown to love her. And why you may ask this change of heart. Not because she is worth telling that he loves her. Oh no. Its because he wants to be like the rest of the Cynsters. Since they flaunt their love matches, he should get to as well. So he then decides to start spending a bit more time with his wife, but always making sure that he tells her that he is not doing it for her. There is always another reason for him to just show up a random ball that she is at. Got to keeping her insecure. Cant give her too much power over him. This continues for far too long, with random characters making appearances and teasing interesting sidebars which go nowhere. I started skimming at this point so maybe something did happen but I bet not. Anyway 80% out of the blue crisis later, he confesses all his love. Wife is amazed that he's loved her from day 1 treated her like crap for no reason, manipulated her into an insecure position annnnd she shrugs and goes with it. No challenging this bizzare behavior. Just so grateful to be loved that all is happiness. Seriously, why did I read this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2021
I have to be honest: Ms. Laurens is not one of my favorite historical romance authors, but I do like to check in on the Cynsters and their assorted connections occasionally because I have enjoyed some of the books. This was not one of them.
It's not bad at all, but it's also not great which is the problem. Nothing much happens. Devlin and Therese muddle along with no communication besides social chatter and a hot time in bed. When he decides (after five years) that it's time to let his real feelings out, he's so cautious and conniving that it doesn't seem real (at least to me). Therese isn't much better. She's supposed to be so strong-willed but seems perfectly content with having a husband who doesn't love her.
The best part of the book was Child, so maybe I'll grab his romance when it comes out. My rating on this book is on me, partly because I find the author's writing overblown and repetitious. Yet I continue to read her because the Cynster family can be so interesting. I just didn't find Therese and Devlin compelling.
It's not bad at all, but it's also not great which is the problem. Nothing much happens. Devlin and Therese muddle along with no communication besides social chatter and a hot time in bed. When he decides (after five years) that it's time to let his real feelings out, he's so cautious and conniving that it doesn't seem real (at least to me). Therese isn't much better. She's supposed to be so strong-willed but seems perfectly content with having a husband who doesn't love her.
The best part of the book was Child, so maybe I'll grab his romance when it comes out. My rating on this book is on me, partly because I find the author's writing overblown and repetitious. Yet I continue to read her because the Cynster family can be so interesting. I just didn't find Therese and Devlin compelling.
October 16, 2021
Disappointed with this installment in Laurens’ Next Generation series. Therese stood out as a tertiary character ( child) in so many previous books I was looking forward to seeing how she developed into a MC. Another strong willed Cynster female heroine but this book didn’t provide a strong plot arc. It seemed more of a book to introduce new male characters for upcoming books. Lost opportunity and not a good read compared to most of the previous 20+ books set in Laurens’ historical Cyster world.
March 20, 2021
Another super Cynster Next Gen story by Stephanie Laurens
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, which had the twist of bringing together a couple who are already married to each other! Devlin had his reasons for not openly admitting to his love for Therese before they married, but they no longer satisfy him. Now he needs to discover how to reveal that love to her without damaging the relationship they already have. What a tangled web! I loved getting some glimpses into the fun things a family with young children could do in London at that time. The children, Child and her long lost brother were all wonderful additions to the story.
The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful. The storyline is character oriented with some steamy scenes and a very different action scene. The characters are vibrant and endearing. You are urging them both to come to the correct conclusion to their issue/problem. This is a very satisfying read and I love getting a peek at what is coming next. I can't wait to see what will happen next! Read at least this series in order, but to get the full picture, you really need to start with the Cynster series, go to the Cynster Sisters Trilogy, then the Cynster Sisters Duo, then the Cavanaugh series and finally the Cynster Next Generation books. Along the way, you will enjoy the Adventurers Club, Bastian Club, the Casebook of Barnaby Adair, Lady Osbaldestone's Christmas intrigues and the Black Cobra quartet! If you have not experienced these, then you are in for a treat! Enjoy!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, which had the twist of bringing together a couple who are already married to each other! Devlin had his reasons for not openly admitting to his love for Therese before they married, but they no longer satisfy him. Now he needs to discover how to reveal that love to her without damaging the relationship they already have. What a tangled web! I loved getting some glimpses into the fun things a family with young children could do in London at that time. The children, Child and her long lost brother were all wonderful additions to the story.
The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful. The storyline is character oriented with some steamy scenes and a very different action scene. The characters are vibrant and endearing. You are urging them both to come to the correct conclusion to their issue/problem. This is a very satisfying read and I love getting a peek at what is coming next. I can't wait to see what will happen next! Read at least this series in order, but to get the full picture, you really need to start with the Cynster series, go to the Cynster Sisters Trilogy, then the Cynster Sisters Duo, then the Cavanaugh series and finally the Cynster Next Generation books. Along the way, you will enjoy the Adventurers Club, Bastian Club, the Casebook of Barnaby Adair, Lady Osbaldestone's Christmas intrigues and the Black Cobra quartet! If you have not experienced these, then you are in for a treat! Enjoy!
January 5, 2022
Most romance novels of this era happen pre-marriage or newly married, so I enjoyed taking a break from the avg dynamic/setting and seeing a more intimate view of life a few years after the wedding.
And while it did make the pace a little slower, I kind of enjoyed the fact that nothing too crazy happened. It was just a nice little time period love story about two people pushing past individual perceptions and beliefs that were holding them back; allowing them to live a life full of openly acknowledged, mutual love.
**WARNING FOR AUDIO LISTENERS***
The editing on this one KILLED me. Its very clear that the production company cut corners by patching in different, and poorly matched audio clips, of the narrator saying “Therese”, because he evidently mispronounced the name of the main female character for a large portion of the performance and they decided to fix it later, rather than have the narrator re-preform it, after they realized he was mispronouncing her name mid production.
Honestly, as someone who has experience working with audio production and editing, I understand that you have to sometimes make things work, but the final product was sloppy and disappointing. I treasure my Stephanie Lauren’s audiobooks and revisit them regularly, but this one will be returned.
And while it did make the pace a little slower, I kind of enjoyed the fact that nothing too crazy happened. It was just a nice little time period love story about two people pushing past individual perceptions and beliefs that were holding them back; allowing them to live a life full of openly acknowledged, mutual love.
**WARNING FOR AUDIO LISTENERS***
The editing on this one KILLED me. Its very clear that the production company cut corners by patching in different, and poorly matched audio clips, of the narrator saying “Therese”, because he evidently mispronounced the name of the main female character for a large portion of the performance and they decided to fix it later, rather than have the narrator re-preform it, after they realized he was mispronouncing her name mid production.
Honestly, as someone who has experience working with audio production and editing, I understand that you have to sometimes make things work, but the final product was sloppy and disappointing. I treasure my Stephanie Lauren’s audiobooks and revisit them regularly, but this one will be returned.
April 9, 2021
I was so looking forward to this book but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. The premise of the story sounded promising, a departure from SL previous books. The couple has been married for 5 years and already with 3 children, and the h doesn't have a clue that her husband, has been in love with her from the very beginning. Unfortunately, the story doesn't have substance Nd we are forced to read long descriptions of the couple going to balls and launches and walks in the park that brings nothing to the story. Very blah, very boring. I felt like the author was writing nonsense to achieve her word count. Devlin's silly excuse for keeping his feelings for his wife a secret is annoying and disappointing. When his wife, finally finds out she just accepts this without challenge even after he confessed the ways he manipulated her. Disappointed. Very disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2021
This was so boring. There was literally no point to it. I liked the very beginning but then the H and h sent no time together except sex. The whole book was them spending time with other people and the social scene. And so incredibly boring. They only got together when there was drawn out sexy scene. DNFd at 40% and that’s time I can’t get back.
July 19, 2022
I read this story immediately following that of Christopher and Ellen. I believe that book (#8) was the better overall story. However, this book, the story of Devlin and Therese (who is Christopher's sister) had much more detail and description what I felt was lacking in the previous book.
Devlin and Therese have been married for five years, and when it came to the intimate moments, they didn't have to be careful or sneak around, they shared a bed every night. So there were plenty of scenes where we got to see the couple together.
Outside the bedroom I enjoyed reading about the two of them growing closer due to Devlin's understanding of what he really wanted from his marriage. His thoughtfulness of putting her first and making her happy made me like him even more (although I will admit he was a little manipulative at times).
There is a misunderstanding later in the story, just when everything is going smoothly, and in my opinion, Therese completely overreacts. That was a little annoying.
The character of Lord Grayson Child is introduced and is intriguing to see where they will go next with him.
Devlin and Therese have been married for five years, and when it came to the intimate moments, they didn't have to be careful or sneak around, they shared a bed every night. So there were plenty of scenes where we got to see the couple together.
Outside the bedroom I enjoyed reading about the two of them growing closer due to Devlin's understanding of what he really wanted from his marriage. His thoughtfulness of putting her first and making her happy made me like him even more (although I will admit he was a little manipulative at times).
There is a misunderstanding later in the story, just when everything is going smoothly, and in my opinion, Therese completely overreacts. That was a little annoying.
The character of Lord Grayson Child is introduced and is intriguing to see where they will go next with him.
March 28, 2022
I don’t understand some of the critics of this book, to me it was a refreshing change of having to go through the long drawn out chase of the two lovers trying to realize they belong together, that’s so predictable. I love for once we get to read about the afterward, the marriage and what these two go through to fight to push for the marriage they both want, I LOVED THIS BOOK, it was spicy with their love scenes, tender with there family scenes and strong when they pulled together for each other, I love all Stephanie Laurens books, I’m a hopeless romantic and the Cynster series is my favorite and I hope she writes more of what the Cynster marriages are and how they develop after the courtship so 10 stars in my book, she doesn’t write a bad novel ever to me but everyone has an opinion but to me Devlin and Therese’s story is beautiful we don’t always have to have a dramatic serious plot of murder and intrigue to define the catalyst for two people finally realizing they love each other.
March 21, 2021
Devlin and Therese
Therese is in love with her husband of five years but feels he is just fond of her. Decline is head over heels in love with Therese but has neglected to ever let her know this. Therese is the only daughter of Vane Cubs her and of course Cubs her only marry for love. Devlin has decided to be subtle in his goal to let her know he is in love with her but it all blows up in his face and after almost losing her they have a long due tell all. Next in the match makers sight is their friend Child, the second son of a duke and Region's childhood friend.
Therese is in love with her husband of five years but feels he is just fond of her. Decline is head over heels in love with Therese but has neglected to ever let her know this. Therese is the only daughter of Vane Cubs her and of course Cubs her only marry for love. Devlin has decided to be subtle in his goal to let her know he is in love with her but it all blows up in his face and after almost losing her they have a long due tell all. Next in the match makers sight is their friend Child, the second son of a duke and Region's childhood friend.
July 9, 2021
Blech. The mystery entire plot line was ridiculous. And her reaction to him was ridiculous. The whole thing was utterly ridiculous, and not in the good way. I’ve gone along with Stephanie Laurens new direction, and have often enjoyed it. However, this is just….not good. Perhaps she’s running out of ideas?
June 7, 2021
This book made me feel INSANE? Why in the world. Like just…why did they have to do all that.
lost-interest
September 16, 2021The premise for Therese's story doesn't sound appealing. Going to pass on this one.
#1 Devil's Bride - ★★★★☆
#2 A Rake's Vow - ★★★★☆
#3 Scandal's Bride - Haven't Read
#4 A Rogue's Proposal - Haven't Read
#5 A Secret Love - Haven't Read
#6 All About Love - Haven't Read
#7 All About Passion - Haven't Read
#8 On a Wild Night - ★★★★☆
#9 On a Wicked Dawn - Haven't Read
#10 The Perfect Lover - ★★★★☆
#11 The Ideal Bride - ★★★★☆
#12 The Truth About Love - No Rating
#13 What Price Love? - ★★★★★
#14 The Taste of Innocence - ★★★☆☆
#15 Temptation and Surrender - ★★★★☆
#16 Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue - ★★★★★
#17 In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster - ★★★★★
#18 The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae - ★★★★☆
#19 And Then She Fell - ★★★★☆
#20 The Taming of Ryder Cavanaugh - ★★★☆☆
#21 By Winter's Light - ★★★☆☆
#22 The Tempting of Thomas Carrick - ★★★☆☆
#23 A Match for Marcus Cynster - ★★☆☆☆
#24 The Lady By His Side - ★★★☆☆
#25 An Irresistible Alliance - ★★★☆☆
#26 The Greatest Challenge Of Them All - ★★★★☆
#27 A Conquest Impossible To Resist - ★★★☆☆
#28 The Inevitable Fall of Christopher Cynster - ★★☆☆☆
#1 Devil's Bride - ★★★★☆
#2 A Rake's Vow - ★★★★☆
#3 Scandal's Bride - Haven't Read
#4 A Rogue's Proposal - Haven't Read
#5 A Secret Love - Haven't Read
#6 All About Love - Haven't Read
#7 All About Passion - Haven't Read
#8 On a Wild Night - ★★★★☆
#9 On a Wicked Dawn - Haven't Read
#10 The Perfect Lover - ★★★★☆
#11 The Ideal Bride - ★★★★☆
#12 The Truth About Love - No Rating
#13 What Price Love? - ★★★★★
#14 The Taste of Innocence - ★★★☆☆
#15 Temptation and Surrender - ★★★★☆
#16 Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue - ★★★★★
#17 In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster - ★★★★★
#18 The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae - ★★★★☆
#19 And Then She Fell - ★★★★☆
#20 The Taming of Ryder Cavanaugh - ★★★☆☆
#21 By Winter's Light - ★★★☆☆
#22 The Tempting of Thomas Carrick - ★★★☆☆
#23 A Match for Marcus Cynster - ★★☆☆☆
#24 The Lady By His Side - ★★★☆☆
#25 An Irresistible Alliance - ★★★☆☆
#26 The Greatest Challenge Of Them All - ★★★★☆
#27 A Conquest Impossible To Resist - ★★★☆☆
#28 The Inevitable Fall of Christopher Cynster - ★★☆☆☆
May 16, 2022
I love Stephanie Laurens.💖 I hope you read her wonderful books💜💙💜💖
He searched her eyes. “That was why seeing me with Madame Faberge affected you so powerfully. You thought I’d offered you the most shining of prizes—the one that your heart has always truly craved—only to cruelly snatch it away.” She nodded. Turning her hand in his hold, she squeezed his fingers. “You’ve told me your truth. My truth—the one I’ve finally seen clearly and that I’m ready to own to—is that I want to be loved by you as much and to the same extent as I love you. What you’re offering me now is all and everything my heart truly desires.” His smile was everything she needed it to be. Raising their linked hands, he brushed a gentler kiss to her fingers. “It seems that in the matter of loving each other, we’ve been playing games—two separate, idiotic, and unnecessary games—you and I.” She nodded again. “So it seems.” There was a glow in her eyes, a softness in her features, a quality in her smile that Devlin had never seen before—as if, through the exchange of their hearts’ secrets, the true Therese had been freed. Freed to love—freed to be loved. He drew in a breath and, all but lost in the glory of her eyes, declared, “We are a pair, right enough. But our reality, my darling, is here and now. Whatever our past mistakes, our past weaknesses and shortcomings, we’ve seen the light. Can we go forward from here?” Her smile conveyed all the joy and ready agreement he could wish for. “That would be my greatest, most fervent wish.” He basked in the warmth of her silver-blue gaze. “It’s mine as well, so I believe that settles it.” He rose from the chair and, without releasing her hand, swung to prop his hip beside her on the bed, then leaned over her and kissed the lips she tipped her head back and offered. A long, slow, achingly simple kiss ensued, one laden with love, acknowledged and claimed, and with the shining promise of a glorious future informed by, anchored by, and invested with the irrefutable power of mutual love. The caress spun out and on, each feeding the other, each hungry and needing, until reluctantly, he raised his head. He drew in a strained breath, glanced at the white band encircling her head, and grimaced. “Sadly, your wound precludes any immediate demonstration of our mutual ardor.” Therese stared at him. “Really?” When he tried to ease back, she gripped his hand tighter. “It doesn’t hurt that much. Truly.” He hesitated, and she hoped, but then his features firmed and he shook his head. “I’ve no doubt that Sanderson will call later today to check on your recovery, and if he discovers his handiwork dramatically disarranged, he isn’t above hauling me over the coals, earl or not.” She huffed, released him, and slumped on the pillows, openly frustrated. “He’s not above lecturing me, either.”
He searched her eyes. “That was why seeing me with Madame Faberge affected you so powerfully. You thought I’d offered you the most shining of prizes—the one that your heart has always truly craved—only to cruelly snatch it away.” She nodded. Turning her hand in his hold, she squeezed his fingers. “You’ve told me your truth. My truth—the one I’ve finally seen clearly and that I’m ready to own to—is that I want to be loved by you as much and to the same extent as I love you. What you’re offering me now is all and everything my heart truly desires.” His smile was everything she needed it to be. Raising their linked hands, he brushed a gentler kiss to her fingers. “It seems that in the matter of loving each other, we’ve been playing games—two separate, idiotic, and unnecessary games—you and I.” She nodded again. “So it seems.” There was a glow in her eyes, a softness in her features, a quality in her smile that Devlin had never seen before—as if, through the exchange of their hearts’ secrets, the true Therese had been freed. Freed to love—freed to be loved. He drew in a breath and, all but lost in the glory of her eyes, declared, “We are a pair, right enough. But our reality, my darling, is here and now. Whatever our past mistakes, our past weaknesses and shortcomings, we’ve seen the light. Can we go forward from here?” Her smile conveyed all the joy and ready agreement he could wish for. “That would be my greatest, most fervent wish.” He basked in the warmth of her silver-blue gaze. “It’s mine as well, so I believe that settles it.” He rose from the chair and, without releasing her hand, swung to prop his hip beside her on the bed, then leaned over her and kissed the lips she tipped her head back and offered. A long, slow, achingly simple kiss ensued, one laden with love, acknowledged and claimed, and with the shining promise of a glorious future informed by, anchored by, and invested with the irrefutable power of mutual love. The caress spun out and on, each feeding the other, each hungry and needing, until reluctantly, he raised his head. He drew in a strained breath, glanced at the white band encircling her head, and grimaced. “Sadly, your wound precludes any immediate demonstration of our mutual ardor.” Therese stared at him. “Really?” When he tried to ease back, she gripped his hand tighter. “It doesn’t hurt that much. Truly.” He hesitated, and she hoped, but then his features firmed and he shook his head. “I’ve no doubt that Sanderson will call later today to check on your recovery, and if he discovers his handiwork dramatically disarranged, he isn’t above hauling me over the coals, earl or not.” She huffed, released him, and slumped on the pillows, openly frustrated. “He’s not above lecturing me, either.”
September 22, 2021
Unfortunately, this is one of the Cynster series that is more a transitional book than a good story. It's not even as long as her works usually are, and I thought it dragged and was too long. The emotional and relationship drama was not particularly compelling or interesting, while those secondary plots that were more interesting and in fact serve as a transtion in the Cynster Family interconnected series from the generation of the regency to the next generation at the beginning of the Victorian Age were not prominent enough. It's clear they will be the basis for more books going forward, likely in a more compelling manner.
It is the end of 1851, Vicotria has been on the throne for many years, the Napoleonic Wars were fought and the antics of the Prince Regent endured by a prior generation. investment in and development of railroads and manufacturing are starting to govern politics and the financial stability of the aristocracy. Devlin, the Earl of Alverton and his wife, Therese, a Cynster, are leaders of the younger generation of the aristocracy starting to rule Britain, stepping into the shoes of their parents. They have very similar personalities, both like control, being of managing ways, and deeply in love with each other but for one reason or another does not want the other to know or for society either. Rather, they have for 5 years presented the perfect aristocratic marriage of affection and contentment. Except for one thing: they are madly secretly in love with each other and Devlin at least wants to admit his love. Frankly, the whole premise is weak IMHO. Hohum.
However, the side story of Martin, a long lost Cynster and Therese' younger brother, returning after making his mark in America is interesting if insufficiently explored. Ditto the story of Grayson Childs, the heir to the dukedom neighboring the earldone of Alverston, who also went to America for many years and only just returned, clouded in mystery as to what he did during those years and his purpose in returning. Grayson has been given his story in the next book from Laurens - I'll catch up eventually. But it was interesting to see how this generation, which has not had to go to war - yet - had younger sons head off to America to make their fortunes and prove their worth. The economic background of investment, railroads, and manufacturing was also interesting and quite different from the land management that was the sole economic involvement of the prior generation.
I wish there had been a lot more about the culture, history, and politics of the time, which has played in Laurens' books in the past.
It is the end of 1851, Vicotria has been on the throne for many years, the Napoleonic Wars were fought and the antics of the Prince Regent endured by a prior generation. investment in and development of railroads and manufacturing are starting to govern politics and the financial stability of the aristocracy. Devlin, the Earl of Alverton and his wife, Therese, a Cynster, are leaders of the younger generation of the aristocracy starting to rule Britain, stepping into the shoes of their parents. They have very similar personalities, both like control, being of managing ways, and deeply in love with each other but for one reason or another does not want the other to know or for society either. Rather, they have for 5 years presented the perfect aristocratic marriage of affection and contentment. Except for one thing: they are madly secretly in love with each other and Devlin at least wants to admit his love. Frankly, the whole premise is weak IMHO. Hohum.
However, the side story of Martin, a long lost Cynster and Therese' younger brother, returning after making his mark in America is interesting if insufficiently explored. Ditto the story of Grayson Childs, the heir to the dukedom neighboring the earldone of Alverston, who also went to America for many years and only just returned, clouded in mystery as to what he did during those years and his purpose in returning. Grayson has been given his story in the next book from Laurens - I'll catch up eventually. But it was interesting to see how this generation, which has not had to go to war - yet - had younger sons head off to America to make their fortunes and prove their worth. The economic background of investment, railroads, and manufacturing was also interesting and quite different from the land management that was the sole economic involvement of the prior generation.
I wish there had been a lot more about the culture, history, and politics of the time, which has played in Laurens' books in the past.
August 7, 2021
My rating: 3 stars -- not as good as earlier books in this series, and definitely not as good as the early Cynster books.
This book, and the others in the Cynsters Next Generation series, is well-written -- but it is not as good as the earlier Cynster books. All of the books seem unnecessarily wordy, and this one is just far too long. Much of the detail of the plot could have been left out, and the story would not have suffered.
My main issue with this book is that it was just so SLOW. There wasn't much action, and most of it was written from the perspective of the main couple, and their near constant rehashing of their conversations, behavior, etc...
I liked the idea of the H finally coming clean that he loved his wife, after so many year of hiding it -- but his method of doing that was boring, and her reactions were boring, too. I get that he was afraid she wouldn't believe him if he just told her, but his method took FOREVER, and was boring to read about.
I also didn't like that this book was so long. A great deal of that length was due to unnecessary details that were often repeated/rehashed in the couple's thoughts. There was also a lot of purple prose, which was difficult to read, and contributed to the book's too long length.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
This book, and the others in the Cynsters Next Generation series, is well-written -- but it is not as good as the earlier Cynster books. All of the books seem unnecessarily wordy, and this one is just far too long. Much of the detail of the plot could have been left out, and the story would not have suffered.
My main issue with this book is that it was just so SLOW. There wasn't much action, and most of it was written from the perspective of the main couple, and their near constant rehashing of their conversations, behavior, etc...
I liked the idea of the H finally coming clean that he loved his wife, after so many year of hiding it -- but his method of doing that was boring, and her reactions were boring, too. I get that he was afraid she wouldn't believe him if he just told her, but his method took FOREVER, and was boring to read about.
I also didn't like that this book was so long. A great deal of that length was due to unnecessary details that were often repeated/rehashed in the couple's thoughts. There was also a lot of purple prose, which was difficult to read, and contributed to the book's too long length.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
April 28, 2024
…EINSCHLAGEND, VERFÜHREND & VOLLER ELAN..
Erstmal, ihr solltet die vorherigen Bücher gelesen zu haben, um das beste Leseerlebnis zu gelangen.
Eins ist nämlich sicher, man bekommt viele Paare geboten, die schon vorher zueinander gefunden haben und man blickt auch besser bei den Eigenheiten der Charakter durch.
Hier liegt der Fokus bei Therese und Devlin, die schon so lange verheiratet sind. Jedoch hat er nie von Liebe gesprochen. Die Emotionen bei ihm übersprudeln und er versucht mit allen Mitteln seine Frau von diesen zu überzeugen. Gelingt es ihm?
Lest selbst, verstrickt euch in der entzückenden, fesselnden und emotionalen Geschichte. Werdet Teil der Welt der Etikette als auch der Nachwirkungen einer Liebe, die so nie Teil von Therese Glück werden sollte.
Besonders, wo sie doch damit gerechnet hat. Auf diesem Weg kommen tolle Menschen näher und uns in diese Entwicklungen verstrickt.
Devlin, der voller Elan seine Emotionen Ausdruck geben will und entzückend in den Bann zieht.
Ich habe mich sehr auf das Werk gefreut, leider muss ich gestehen, dass es mich, dass es mein erstes Buch der Reihe war, da man diese eigentlich unabhängig lesen konnte. Mir jedoch nicht das beste Leseergebnis geboten hat. Ich hätte die vorherigen lesen soll.
Das Werk bietet tolle Protagonisten, der durch ihre Interaktionen näher zueinander finden, ihrer Sehnsüchte sich immer wieder anziehen.
Ein Werk, was ich euch ans Herz geht; es hat mich mitgerissen, entzückt als auch von den aufwühlenden Aufeinandertreffen begeistert. Besonders ist es Therese, mit der uns ihr Herz bricht, die Sehnsüchte überschnappen und am Ende von ihrer Stärke beeindrucken.
Ich bleibe daher recht gut unterhalten, entzückt, verzaubert, von Devlin erstaunt als beflügelt zurück.
Vielen Dank für das Rezensionsexemplar an den Verlag. Trotz der Bereitstellung hat dies in keiner Weise meine ehrliche Meinung zum Buch beeinträchtigt.
#EinverführerischerLord
#StephanieLaurens
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#Rezension
March 20, 2021
The H and h have been married for 5 years and the H despite being in love with h, has pretended that theirs was a marriage of convenience. This is a departure from the author's typical H and h getting into a caper and discovering love along with solving a mystery. There is a hint at a mystery with h's brother who has been presumed dead coming back flush with cash after running away in a ship when he was 17 years old. After he comes back, he is held at a gambling den and the h goes to a rescue but the story doesn't pick up on the mystery and run with it. The H's friend Child as a character was interesting but also had a thread of weirdness in how H and Child interact with each other. Nevertheless I think reading about Child would be a lot more interesting. The H and h are portrayed as being curious and leaders but their actions aren't congruent with the portrayal. Also, this generation of Cynsters aren't as interesting as the original as they haven't had to overcome a lot of odds, haven't had a dysfunctional family dynamics to overcome and the supporting characters are too well established and while that lends a thread of continuity doesn't introduce new perspectives or add color.
March 21, 2021
A memory test of the Çynsters
This book is not for someone who does not know the family. The story is soft but it is intriguing the way past novels are mentioned. Dr Sanderson who saved Ryders life. There's watching her son drawing thought of her cousin and a picture of the unusual commission appears her mum and dad's made makes you think of the aunt.Only 4 stars because of the lie Cysnters"Cysnster only marry for love"Devil met his wife one distressing day wanted to marry her the next and if my memory is correct did not tell her he loved her until 10 years later.Only twice can I think of a bride going to the alter a virgin Lenore and Jason and Antonia's mum her father wanted a piece of land she owned and did not even recognise her at the alte The trilogy Sabastian had to say he was engaged because Antonia said she was inhis bed as an alarm for a murder Michezl and c,oe were caught in bed by Drake Louise climbed I to Drakes bed and he called it fate! At least they were gentlemen once bedded they wedded and were true to their wifes
This book is not for someone who does not know the family. The story is soft but it is intriguing the way past novels are mentioned. Dr Sanderson who saved Ryders life. There's watching her son drawing thought of her cousin and a picture of the unusual commission appears her mum and dad's made makes you think of the aunt.Only 4 stars because of the lie Cysnters"Cysnster only marry for love"Devil met his wife one distressing day wanted to marry her the next and if my memory is correct did not tell her he loved her until 10 years later.Only twice can I think of a bride going to the alter a virgin Lenore and Jason and Antonia's mum her father wanted a piece of land she owned and did not even recognise her at the alte The trilogy Sabastian had to say he was engaged because Antonia said she was inhis bed as an alarm for a murder Michezl and c,oe were caught in bed by Drake Louise climbed I to Drakes bed and he called it fate! At least they were gentlemen once bedded they wedded and were true to their wifes
December 19, 2021
Lord Devlin Cader didn't think he needed love to be a part of his marriage. But five years after marrying Therese Cynster, he is thinking that that was a mistake. Especially mentioning to her that that was his intention.
Therese knows that her family is known for marrying for love. But that doesn't mean that the person is perforce going to love her. And she is fine with that. She is building a powerful partnership with Devlin and people are starting to notice that she is becoming a powerful political figure in her own right. But now Devlin seems to be... changing. If she didn't know better, she would believe that the man might actually be in love with her.
This was an okay story and I was delighted to get a glimpse at someone after their marriage. Even if they thought they had figured it out, they were still working on it. However, there was just a little too much focus on people who will have sequels: Devlin's friend who has returned to England and Therese's younger brother who disappeared when he was seventeen and is also recently returned.
Therese knows that her family is known for marrying for love. But that doesn't mean that the person is perforce going to love her. And she is fine with that. She is building a powerful partnership with Devlin and people are starting to notice that she is becoming a powerful political figure in her own right. But now Devlin seems to be... changing. If she didn't know better, she would believe that the man might actually be in love with her.
This was an okay story and I was delighted to get a glimpse at someone after their marriage. Even if they thought they had figured it out, they were still working on it. However, there was just a little too much focus on people who will have sequels: Devlin's friend who has returned to England and Therese's younger brother who disappeared when he was seventeen and is also recently returned.
April 5, 2021
I've read all the Cynsters series and a good portion of the adjacent novels so I know what I was in for.
Though this one was a bit different as the main couple, Therese and Devlin, have been married for five years. The thing is that Therese loves Devlin but thinks he doesn't love her while he does and has finally arrived to the conclusion he wants her to know. But like all male characters in the Cynster novels, admitting that outright isn't how he does things.
The best parts pertain to the side characters of Lord Graylord Child, Devil's childhood friend, and Martin Cynster, Therese's brother. They are a bit more unpredictable and liven the plot. 'Cause any suspense there is in the plot, is always easily resolved. Sure, one of the plotlines wouldn't be Cynster-y enough if it hadn't been so easily resolved.
All in all, a fun read for those who like the Cynsters series.
Though this one was a bit different as the main couple, Therese and Devlin, have been married for five years. The thing is that Therese loves Devlin but thinks he doesn't love her while he does and has finally arrived to the conclusion he wants her to know. But like all male characters in the Cynster novels, admitting that outright isn't how he does things.
The best parts pertain to the side characters of Lord Graylord Child, Devil's childhood friend, and Martin Cynster, Therese's brother. They are a bit more unpredictable and liven the plot. 'Cause any suspense there is in the plot, is always easily resolved. Sure, one of the plotlines wouldn't be Cynster-y enough if it hadn't been so easily resolved.
All in all, a fun read for those who like the Cynsters series.
March 22, 2021
This book was one of my least favorite from this author. More time is spent rehashing the H's reasons for putting off admitting he loves his wife than in doing anything positive about it. There is also an inordinate amount of time spent in their lovemaking, and not alot of character or plot development. The storyline kicks into high gear about three-quarters of the way through. The epilogue is nice if you've read the earlier CNG books (we find out who's been producing the next generation of Cynsters). The next book (Lord Grayson Child's story) sounds like it has real potential. Just chalking this book up to another victim of the disappointing and difficult last 12 months.
March 30, 2021
Love, love, love Stephanie Laurens' Cynster books!
I could not recall, however, who Therese's parents were, since so much time has passed since I read Christopher's story. This information was finally revealed at the end.
I did enjoy the backwards love story -- in that, they were already married and were trying to really get together fully in love -- with a bit of intrigue and mystery added.
Looking forward to more Cynster Next Generations and the inevitable spin-offs to come.
I could not recall, however, who Therese's parents were, since so much time has passed since I read Christopher's story. This information was finally revealed at the end.
I did enjoy the backwards love story -- in that, they were already married and were trying to really get together fully in love -- with a bit of intrigue and mystery added.
Looking forward to more Cynster Next Generations and the inevitable spin-offs to come.
April 17, 2021
Another great book in the Cynster series! I’m not sure I really bought into Devlin’s reasoning for pretending to not love his wife, but the story was so entertaining, that really didn’t matter much to me. I love Terese, and Devlin is such a devoted husband and father it was really heartwarming. Child free to be a favorite side characters of mine as well, and I can’t wait for his story to come out!!
April 8, 2021
This might have worked as a short or stretched to a novella. It had a one line plot, no conflict, lots of endless introspection, no tension, and endless adjectives. Only my “completeness” gene got me through the book. I remember liking her original Cynster books. I may go back and see how they hold up... I hate posting negative reviews!
May 11, 2021
The Games Lovers Play
Another awesome read! I loved reading Theresa and Devlin's story. The way they interact in the beginning and the trust given throughout the book draws you in. I enjoyed the I interaction with Childs and the other characters. I can not wait for the next book!
Another awesome read! I loved reading Theresa and Devlin's story. The way they interact in the beginning and the trust given throughout the book draws you in. I enjoyed the I interaction with Childs and the other characters. I can not wait for the next book!
December 29, 2022
This was different from what I expect from Stephanie, I stopped reading her books because her plots were always "the hero falls in love with the heroine and wants to marry her but she doesn't want To". And I grew tired of it, this was better but the all plot turned around a guy Who can't say what he feels and that was just immature.
August 13, 2024
I really loved this book! I initially didn't want to read it as the main characters were already married, and I didn't want to read a 'marriage in trouble ' book. But it's not like that at all! It's a beautiful journey of a Cynster marriage I've never read before. It will be one of my favourites for sure!
March 23, 2021
Truly enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and the plot of this book. Just love anything to do with the Cynster's or their friends. This series should be a movie!!! So looking forward to reading the next installment of this series.
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