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Never the Bride #10.5
Always the Lyon Tamer
Enter the world of the most notorious gambling den in London, where matches are made... unusually. Welcome to the world of THE LYON'S DEN: The Black Widow of Whitehall Connected World, where the underground of Regency London thrives... and loves.
Always taming gentlemen but never getting her own—but the Lyon's Den will change that…
Miss Rebecca Darby is tired of being courted by John Lennox, Marquis of Gloucester. After months of empty promises, it's time to take matters into her own hands. Because John 'the Lion' Lennox is always surrounded by his pride of ladies, and she's never able to get close.
His flirting has led nowhere, and Rebecca won't stand for it anymore. Not when the Lyon's Den, the secretive club owned by Mrs. Dove-Lyon, promises to play games leading to happy matrimony. John has no idea what faces him in the game. Rebecca has no idea whether her shyness will allow her to carry through with her plans, but if she doesn't try, she'll always wonder.
He doesn't recognize the mysterious woman in the mask. She knows this is her only chance to tame him. In a world where women rule the roost and gentlemen must do what they're told, it will take a Lyon Tamer to bring John to his knees.
But once the masks are removed, will Rebecca have her way, or will the Lyon escape into the night?
This novella is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhangers, and is part of a series which can be read in any order.
Always taming gentlemen but never getting her own—but the Lyon's Den will change that…
Miss Rebecca Darby is tired of being courted by John Lennox, Marquis of Gloucester. After months of empty promises, it's time to take matters into her own hands. Because John 'the Lion' Lennox is always surrounded by his pride of ladies, and she's never able to get close.
His flirting has led nowhere, and Rebecca won't stand for it anymore. Not when the Lyon's Den, the secretive club owned by Mrs. Dove-Lyon, promises to play games leading to happy matrimony. John has no idea what faces him in the game. Rebecca has no idea whether her shyness will allow her to carry through with her plans, but if she doesn't try, she'll always wonder.
He doesn't recognize the mysterious woman in the mask. She knows this is her only chance to tame him. In a world where women rule the roost and gentlemen must do what they're told, it will take a Lyon Tamer to bring John to his knees.
But once the masks are removed, will Rebecca have her way, or will the Lyon escape into the night?
This novella is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhangers, and is part of a series which can be read in any order.
93 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2021
About the author
Emily E.K. Murdoch
150 books283 followersEmily E.K. Murdoch is also known as Emily Murdoch.
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 22, 2021
2 stars
A unique premise, an unlikely scenario, and a romance storyline I’m not a fan of but at least it had a nice ending.
[What I liked:]
•This club establishment promoting female power & agency in a regency era story is intriguing!
•For a brief novella, the narrative is rich in emotion, showing the MC’s realizing their desires, and growing in their understanding of each other.
•The dialogue is well written.
•There is a very sweet & cheesy ending in the epilogue.
[What I didn’t like as much:]
•Though very interesting, I think the premise of society ladies patronizing such a debauched club, plus a nobleman agreeing to marry a stranger on a whim, is unrealistic; it was hard to suspend my disbelief.
•The main character literally states that she needs the guy she’s in love with—please no, I don’t admire codependency in romantic relationships.
•The way the main couple gets together paints them as manipulative, shallow, and reckless. This made me dislike them as people and lose respect for them.
•I would have liked more description, especially of the setting.
[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]
A unique premise, an unlikely scenario, and a romance storyline I’m not a fan of but at least it had a nice ending.
[What I liked:]
•This club establishment promoting female power & agency in a regency era story is intriguing!
•For a brief novella, the narrative is rich in emotion, showing the MC’s realizing their desires, and growing in their understanding of each other.
•The dialogue is well written.
•There is a very sweet & cheesy ending in the epilogue.
[What I didn’t like as much:]
•Though very interesting, I think the premise of society ladies patronizing such a debauched club, plus a nobleman agreeing to marry a stranger on a whim, is unrealistic; it was hard to suspend my disbelief.
•The main character literally states that she needs the guy she’s in love with—please no, I don’t admire codependency in romantic relationships.
•The way the main couple gets together paints them as manipulative, shallow, and reckless. This made me dislike them as people and lose respect for them.
•I would have liked more description, especially of the setting.
[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]
February 23, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
This book spans and connects two series, Wicked Earls and Emily’s Never the Bride series.
Rebecca has loved John for a long time and can’t understand his sudden disappearance from her life.
When she approaches the proprietor of the Lyon’s Den, she knows that it’s unorthodox and not good Ton to try to trick her man into marriage, but he leaves her no choice.
Read on for a wonderful story of love and shy emotional connection for our two lovers, Very well written and such good reading.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
This book spans and connects two series, Wicked Earls and Emily’s Never the Bride series.
Rebecca has loved John for a long time and can’t understand his sudden disappearance from her life.
When she approaches the proprietor of the Lyon’s Den, she knows that it’s unorthodox and not good Ton to try to trick her man into marriage, but he leaves her no choice.
Read on for a wonderful story of love and shy emotional connection for our two lovers, Very well written and such good reading.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
June 18, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
“Always the Lyon Tamer” is the latest addition to the Lyon’s Den series. Though a novella, the well-written characters are fully developed.
Read full review in the 2021 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Always the Lyon Tamer” is the latest addition to the Lyon’s Den series. Though a novella, the well-written characters are fully developed.
Read full review in the 2021 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 25, 2021
Jees, this was so good. I liked Rebecca much more than John. Must admit John was a bit of a "plonker". He didn't say the right things that Rebecca wanted to hear. Saying that, I still loved reading this enjoyable story. Characters and plot were fab. I couldn't put this down and finished reading at 4 am. 5☆
October 27, 2025
Another Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
I enjoyed reading this Story.
Rebecca & John were Delightful & Wonderful characters.
I am looking forward to reading "Lady Luck And The Lyon" by Chasity Bowlin in the next book in this series.
I enjoyed reading this Story.
Rebecca & John were Delightful & Wonderful characters.
I am looking forward to reading "Lady Luck And The Lyon" by Chasity Bowlin in the next book in this series.
February 22, 2021
Always the Lyon Tamer is a quick, entertaining, and steamy Regency romance. The story follows Rebecca as she enlists help from the owner of The Lyon’s Den to help her in winning John’s heart. John is always surrounded by women, and he appears to be quite the charmer. Though it seemed as if he might care for Rebecca, he never took the next step and asked for her hand in marriage. Rebecca knows John is the man for her, but how can she convince him that they have a promising future together?
Rebecca stages a seduction at The Lyon’s Den, intent on showing John just how much she loves him. John is unbearably shy, as is Rebecca, and they both struggle to show their feelings. Rebecca is restricted by societal constraints that dictate a submissive role for females, and John is restricted by his shyness, inexperience, and self-consciousness. Luckily, the freedom of The Lyon’s Den allows them to reveal and embrace their feelings. I love that they both let their guard down.
Unfortunately, Rebecca plans it so that John doesn’t know she is the woman seducing him. Blindfolds and sexy bets help keep her identity secret. I do wish that this was revealed earlier in the story, as the seduction would have been even more powerful if John knew who his seductress really was.
I love that the story gives a more in-depth view of The Lyon’s Den, the notorious gambling den that connects all of the stories in the series. A place of sin and vice, people do things there that are unspeakable in polite society. Gambling, seduction, and more occur within the walls of The Lyon’s Den, and there are few rules.
If you are looking for a quick and sexy historical romance then you will probably love this novella! Thanks so much to Netgalley, Dragonblade Publishing, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Rebecca stages a seduction at The Lyon’s Den, intent on showing John just how much she loves him. John is unbearably shy, as is Rebecca, and they both struggle to show their feelings. Rebecca is restricted by societal constraints that dictate a submissive role for females, and John is restricted by his shyness, inexperience, and self-consciousness. Luckily, the freedom of The Lyon’s Den allows them to reveal and embrace their feelings. I love that they both let their guard down.
Unfortunately, Rebecca plans it so that John doesn’t know she is the woman seducing him. Blindfolds and sexy bets help keep her identity secret. I do wish that this was revealed earlier in the story, as the seduction would have been even more powerful if John knew who his seductress really was.
I love that the story gives a more in-depth view of The Lyon’s Den, the notorious gambling den that connects all of the stories in the series. A place of sin and vice, people do things there that are unspeakable in polite society. Gambling, seduction, and more occur within the walls of The Lyon’s Den, and there are few rules.
If you are looking for a quick and sexy historical romance then you will probably love this novella! Thanks so much to Netgalley, Dragonblade Publishing, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
February 24, 2021
Miss Rebecca Darby thought she was being courted by John Lennox, Marquis of Gloucester but after months of empty promises, it's time to take matters into her own hands. Because John 'the Lion' Lennox is always surrounded by his pride of ladies, and she's never able to get close. His flirting has led nowhere, and Rebecca won't stand for it anymore. Not when the Lyon's Den, the secretive club owned by Mrs. Dove-Lyon, promises to play games leading to happy matrimony. John has no idea what faces him in the game. Rebecca has no idea whether her shyness will allow her to carry through with her plans, but if she doesn't try, she'll always wonder. He doesn't recognize the mysterious woman in the mask. She knows this is her only chance to tame him.
A well written book that is different from the run of the mill historical romances but then things that happen in the Lyon's Den don't follow convention. I really liked both John & Rebecca also secrets were revealed once they actually talked. I also loved that another Lennox had his HEA. A delightful novella, which I read in a sitting
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A well written book that is different from the run of the mill historical romances but then things that happen in the Lyon's Den don't follow convention. I really liked both John & Rebecca also secrets were revealed once they actually talked. I also loved that another Lennox had his HEA. A delightful novella, which I read in a sitting
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
February 22, 2021
Desperate times call for desperate measures and as Miss Rebecca Darby sees her chance at love disappearing like the mist at sunrise, she takes the daring step of approaching the notorious Mrs Dove-Lyon for a solution. John Lennox may be witty and debonaire, flirting with the ladies that surround him at every gathering, but when it comes to matters of the heart, he is shyer than most and holds a surprising secret. Discovering Rebecca behind the mask shocks John, but when she turns and flees, he realises that faint heart never won fair lady. This story, although fairly steamy,is in fact a sweet romance between two innocents who have difficulty in expressing themselves. The story is handled with sensitivity and gentleness and the end result is a very happy one. I have enjoyed all the Lyon's Den stories and although fairly short, this one did not disappoint. I received a copy of this novel as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 2, 2021
"Dire times called for desperate measures." That was why Rebecca was sitting in the Lyons Den waiting on Mrs Dove-Lyon. She needed help with the John, man she loved and hoped she could help her.
Well she came to the right place because they made a plan which should bring him up to snuff!
John is excited when he receives the invitation to the Lyon's Den and more surprised when he is asked to play a game with a masked gorgeous woman!
Little does he know at first it is Rebecca, who he cared about, but had been too shy to tell her.
Then the fun begins.
Another great addition to this series and with Emily pulling it into her Never the Bride series, it works out perfect!
Well she came to the right place because they made a plan which should bring him up to snuff!
John is excited when he receives the invitation to the Lyon's Den and more surprised when he is asked to play a game with a masked gorgeous woman!
Little does he know at first it is Rebecca, who he cared about, but had been too shy to tell her.
Then the fun begins.
Another great addition to this series and with Emily pulling it into her Never the Bride series, it works out perfect!
February 27, 2021
Totally wasted my time and disappointing
No plot to speak of. No storyline with anything to build around. No mystery or intrigue to work through. Not even a romantic story woven in. This book was basically a book of nothing but lust and descriptive intimacy. I like read a well developed book that entertains me with a defined storyline and plot. I do not read books about sex and lust. So I spent most of my time skipping most of the pages. I would not even rate it a one star
No plot to speak of. No storyline with anything to build around. No mystery or intrigue to work through. Not even a romantic story woven in. This book was basically a book of nothing but lust and descriptive intimacy. I like read a well developed book that entertains me with a defined storyline and plot. I do not read books about sex and lust. So I spent most of my time skipping most of the pages. I would not even rate it a one star
April 29, 2025
Can a shy lady get a shy gentleman to admit his feelings?
Rebecca Darby is very shy and covers this by chattering.
John Lennox (brother to William, Prudence and Honora) is also shy and covers this by putting on an outward show of confidence and bonhomie.
Rebecca visits Lyon’s Den and gets help to show John how she feels.
This is done whilst in disguise and when she reveals her identity she believes John is not interested.
It takes the two of them a while to sort out their feelings.
This was a charming tale with both characters being virgins on their first meeting.
Rebecca Darby is very shy and covers this by chattering.
John Lennox (brother to William, Prudence and Honora) is also shy and covers this by putting on an outward show of confidence and bonhomie.
Rebecca visits Lyon’s Den and gets help to show John how she feels.
This is done whilst in disguise and when she reveals her identity she believes John is not interested.
It takes the two of them a while to sort out their feelings.
This was a charming tale with both characters being virgins on their first meeting.
April 8, 2024
Lovely
This is the story of Rebecca and John two extremely shy people. They both pine away in their hearts with unrequited love. Cue in Mrs. Dove-Lyon and let the games begin! Will they be able to overcome their difficulties and anxiety? Can they get out of the way of their own hearts? Read the series, The Lyon’s Den filled love, mystery, hero’s and heroines and the puppet master Mrs. Dove-Lyon pulling the strings!
This is the story of Rebecca and John two extremely shy people. They both pine away in their hearts with unrequited love. Cue in Mrs. Dove-Lyon and let the games begin! Will they be able to overcome their difficulties and anxiety? Can they get out of the way of their own hearts? Read the series, The Lyon’s Den filled love, mystery, hero’s and heroines and the puppet master Mrs. Dove-Lyon pulling the strings!
June 20, 2025
They started their journey together…………
I enjoyed this steamy novella about two shy people that struggled to express their feelings for one another. It took help from Bessie Dove-Lyon to get them together. This story was about taking a chance, overcoming your shyness, the plight of women in society, taking control, friends to lovers, innocence, finding your inner self, and it included a HEA for all.
I enjoyed this steamy novella about two shy people that struggled to express their feelings for one another. It took help from Bessie Dove-Lyon to get them together. This story was about taking a chance, overcoming your shyness, the plight of women in society, taking control, friends to lovers, innocence, finding your inner self, and it included a HEA for all.
January 31, 2025
Another successful match!
Rebecca is a complicated woman who is naive enough to misunderstand John's feelings and reactions. John is equally complicated. He knows what he wants, but has no clue as to how to get it. The supporting characters are easy to like, but they are not well developed. A fun story, it makes one clamor for more from Ms. Murdock.
Rebecca is a complicated woman who is naive enough to misunderstand John's feelings and reactions. John is equally complicated. He knows what he wants, but has no clue as to how to get it. The supporting characters are easy to like, but they are not well developed. A fun story, it makes one clamor for more from Ms. Murdock.
July 30, 2023
Good Story!
Very enjoyable read. These are always good stories. I loved the characters and storyline so much. Took a bit to get to the final happiness for the two but they got there. 💜💜💜💜
Very enjoyable read. These are always good stories. I loved the characters and storyline so much. Took a bit to get to the final happiness for the two but they got there. 💜💜💜💜
April 22, 2023
What a game they played! Check this one out... super-fun to read!
May 26, 2023
Unbelievable
I know it's fiction, but this story is completely unbelievable. I skipped a lot of the pages. Did not hold my interest at all.
I know it's fiction, but this story is completely unbelievable. I skipped a lot of the pages. Did not hold my interest at all.
June 27, 2023
I loved the character interactions in this book, they were amusing and intense. The storyline will keep you on the edge of your seat, and the ending is satisfying.
March 27, 2024
Fun read!
Loved the control of women in this story as once again the Black Widow strikes again in matching a couple.
Loved the control of women in this story as once again the Black Widow strikes again in matching a couple.
November 28, 2021
Always the Lyon Tamer, Book 10.5 of the Never the Bride series, and Book 13 of The Lyon's Den series, was about Miss Rebecca "Becky" Darby, and Lord John Lennox, Marquis of Gloucester, AKA "The Lennox Lion", brother of His Grace William Lennox, Duke of Mercia.
Rebecca has been in love with John for nearly two years. They met in Bath and courted for a short time, then John just sort of...stopped courting her. Though Rebecca had written to John, his reply was that he would not be attending any of the season's activities. However, he always managed to be in the midst of several young ladies...his "pride", hence his nickname, "The Lennox Lion".
Determined to prove her love for him and to win John's love in return, Rebecca, a shy miss who often stumbled over her words, knew no other way to reach him save going to the Lyon's Den for help in "taming" him. The Lyon's Den, a pleasure palace, and was described as "the place where gentlemen do what they are told, and ladies rule the roost". When the proprietress, Mrs. Dove-Lyon, heard Rebecca's dilemma, she welcomed her in and agreed to help her.
Upon their introduction, John had been thoroughly captivated by the lovely Rebecca and found her exhilarating and witty...if one could get past her habit of incessant talking. Unknown to the rest of the world who found him utterly captivating, John was, in all honesty, just as shy as Rebecca. Believing himself not to be brave enough to follow through and offer her marriage, and even though he loved her, John felt it was best if he stopped all contact with Rebecca and allowed her to find someone else...someone more worthy than he.
When he received an unusually marked letter at breakfast one morning, John's interest was piqued. Opening it, all it said was that he had received an invitation to the Lyon's Den, the date to appear...and to take no one with him. Although he had heard of the place, he knew of no one who had actually been there, so he went to the one person he could trust to give him sound advice...his brother, the Duke of Mercia.
Determined to do whatever it took to win John's love, Becky prepared to play the game that the owner of the club taught her. Wearing a mask and an outfit she would never have worn in public, Becky's confidence grew, for she believed this to be her one and only chance with John.
Once John arrived at the club, without him knowing who she was, the game began. If John won the game, he would win a bride. If he lost the game, he had to do whatever Rebecca said.
There was so much angst in this story that it was almost overwhelming, but there was only a touch of drama, and not in a bad way. The emotions evoked by the game were tantalizing and powerful. The passion that developed between John and Becky was steaming hot and volcanic.
The storyline was so different from all the other books, so far, in the Never the Bride series. This was definitely NOT written in the same vein, but more along the lines of The Lyon's Den series...so much so it should never have been included in this series at all.
Unlike most of the previous books in this series (only one other so far), this book deserved a five-star rating and, with other books from the other series (definitely not the Never the Bride series) should be added to the Keeper for the Shelves collection.
Rebecca has been in love with John for nearly two years. They met in Bath and courted for a short time, then John just sort of...stopped courting her. Though Rebecca had written to John, his reply was that he would not be attending any of the season's activities. However, he always managed to be in the midst of several young ladies...his "pride", hence his nickname, "The Lennox Lion".
Determined to prove her love for him and to win John's love in return, Rebecca, a shy miss who often stumbled over her words, knew no other way to reach him save going to the Lyon's Den for help in "taming" him. The Lyon's Den, a pleasure palace, and was described as "the place where gentlemen do what they are told, and ladies rule the roost". When the proprietress, Mrs. Dove-Lyon, heard Rebecca's dilemma, she welcomed her in and agreed to help her.
Upon their introduction, John had been thoroughly captivated by the lovely Rebecca and found her exhilarating and witty...if one could get past her habit of incessant talking. Unknown to the rest of the world who found him utterly captivating, John was, in all honesty, just as shy as Rebecca. Believing himself not to be brave enough to follow through and offer her marriage, and even though he loved her, John felt it was best if he stopped all contact with Rebecca and allowed her to find someone else...someone more worthy than he.
When he received an unusually marked letter at breakfast one morning, John's interest was piqued. Opening it, all it said was that he had received an invitation to the Lyon's Den, the date to appear...and to take no one with him. Although he had heard of the place, he knew of no one who had actually been there, so he went to the one person he could trust to give him sound advice...his brother, the Duke of Mercia.
Determined to do whatever it took to win John's love, Becky prepared to play the game that the owner of the club taught her. Wearing a mask and an outfit she would never have worn in public, Becky's confidence grew, for she believed this to be her one and only chance with John.
Once John arrived at the club, without him knowing who she was, the game began. If John won the game, he would win a bride. If he lost the game, he had to do whatever Rebecca said.
There was so much angst in this story that it was almost overwhelming, but there was only a touch of drama, and not in a bad way. The emotions evoked by the game were tantalizing and powerful. The passion that developed between John and Becky was steaming hot and volcanic.
The storyline was so different from all the other books, so far, in the Never the Bride series. This was definitely NOT written in the same vein, but more along the lines of The Lyon's Den series...so much so it should never have been included in this series at all.
Unlike most of the previous books in this series (only one other so far), this book deserved a five-star rating and, with other books from the other series (definitely not the Never the Bride series) should be added to the Keeper for the Shelves collection.
February 25, 2021
Always the Lyon Tamer by Emily EK Murdoch is definitely part of the Lyon's Den World despite the fact that its title is reminiscent of her Always the Bride series, and there are some crossover characters. Miss Rebecca Darby wants to marry, but not just anyone. She has her eye on John Lennox, Marquess of Gloucester. She had thought they had a connection earlier but nothing had come of it. She had decided to approach Mrs. Dove-Lyon for assistance. My the assistance she got. Now, she was here and so was John. Mrs. Dove Lyon was explaining the game to him right now. She was in a panic, but it was too late to back out. Would she in his hand?
This novella was extremely entertaining and very easy to read. However unlikely it is that during this period in history a young woman would participate in such a ruse, it did make for good reading. She was shy. He was bashful. Or was it the other way around? She was not tricking him to something he didn't want; he was just to embarrassed to ask. It was a fun plot with two fun characters. Certainly worth the read, especially if you are familiar with either series. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Always the Lyon Tamer by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All opinions contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #alwaysthelyontamer
This novella was extremely entertaining and very easy to read. However unlikely it is that during this period in history a young woman would participate in such a ruse, it did make for good reading. She was shy. He was bashful. Or was it the other way around? She was not tricking him to something he didn't want; he was just to embarrassed to ask. It was a fun plot with two fun characters. Certainly worth the read, especially if you are familiar with either series. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Always the Lyon Tamer by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All opinions contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #alwaysthelyontamer
May 4, 2021
All's fair in love, seduction and ... shyness!!
Crippling shyness, a fizzling out courtship and a desperate bid to reveal the real her beneath the nervous wittering, sees Rebecca seek Mrs Dove-Lion's help in a last ditch attempt to win the heart of the man she loves. In an all or nothing game of seduction.
This is a well written tale about two lovable characters whose detrimental struggle to overcome their shyness almost sees them losing their chance at love. However, Rebecca isn't willing to let John slowly drift away from her without a fight and concocts a risky sensual game of 'blindman's seduce', to use the freedom and cloak of anonymity, to boast her confidence and finally tackle the misperceptions and miscommunications surrounding who she really is and what she truly wants - HIM!! With fun, sweetly tender and heated results!!
I became so immersed in this fun, touching tale, to the point I could feel the strum of sexual tension, the burdens they both carried by their shyness, the innocence under the guise of forged confidence and the freedom to truly express who they wanted to be in that moment, and moving forward, that it seduced me to tears.
A fab addition to this series with links to Emily's delightful 'Never the Bride' series too. Where there is heartmelting and witty infused cameos from familiar characters to enjoy too!!
Crippling shyness, a fizzling out courtship and a desperate bid to reveal the real her beneath the nervous wittering, sees Rebecca seek Mrs Dove-Lion's help in a last ditch attempt to win the heart of the man she loves. In an all or nothing game of seduction.
This is a well written tale about two lovable characters whose detrimental struggle to overcome their shyness almost sees them losing their chance at love. However, Rebecca isn't willing to let John slowly drift away from her without a fight and concocts a risky sensual game of 'blindman's seduce', to use the freedom and cloak of anonymity, to boast her confidence and finally tackle the misperceptions and miscommunications surrounding who she really is and what she truly wants - HIM!! With fun, sweetly tender and heated results!!
I became so immersed in this fun, touching tale, to the point I could feel the strum of sexual tension, the burdens they both carried by their shyness, the innocence under the guise of forged confidence and the freedom to truly express who they wanted to be in that moment, and moving forward, that it seduced me to tears.
A fab addition to this series with links to Emily's delightful 'Never the Bride' series too. Where there is heartmelting and witty infused cameos from familiar characters to enjoy too!!
February 26, 2021
3.5 STARS
Our h has loved the H for awhile. She thought he returned the feelings, then he stops courting her and she is devastated. He admits to himself that he loved her but it wasn't clear why he pulled away from her.
The h enlists the aid of Mrs. Dove-Lyon to set up a game where the h/H are participants. What I didn't like, during their sensual encounter, he knows he loves the h, but he is all for marrying the hidden stranger behind the mask. I felt when the H explains himself he is falling for the masked unknown lady and was willing to marry her, that the h would leave sooner. I did admire her spunk and spirit when she realizes this isn't what she wanted. Who wants someone who is interested in someone other than themselves? Granted they are one in the same, but the H doesn't know that.
The lovemaking is very sensual, heat level 3 out of 5. It was interesting to see how they both acted differently when identities were hidden.
This is a short novella. I did like the epilogue - no villains, romance happened before the story begins. No cheating, no cliffhanger HEA and some spice. (ljb)
Our h has loved the H for awhile. She thought he returned the feelings, then he stops courting her and she is devastated. He admits to himself that he loved her but it wasn't clear why he pulled away from her.
The h enlists the aid of Mrs. Dove-Lyon to set up a game where the h/H are participants. What I didn't like, during their sensual encounter, he knows he loves the h, but he is all for marrying the hidden stranger behind the mask. I felt when the H explains himself he is falling for the masked unknown lady and was willing to marry her, that the h would leave sooner. I did admire her spunk and spirit when she realizes this isn't what she wanted. Who wants someone who is interested in someone other than themselves? Granted they are one in the same, but the H doesn't know that.
The lovemaking is very sensual, heat level 3 out of 5. It was interesting to see how they both acted differently when identities were hidden.
This is a short novella. I did like the epilogue - no villains, romance happened before the story begins. No cheating, no cliffhanger HEA and some spice. (ljb)
February 24, 2021
4 stars
I enjoyed this short story. John is popular flirt with the ladies. Rebecca is disappointed as she thought they had a decent relationsjip and that John might propose. She realises that she's restricted by society in showing her interest. She tries her best by writing to him but he doesn't take the hint so in a do or die moment she contacts the Lyon to set up an intervention. There's good reasons for John's reluctance and Rebecca has to work hard for her HEA. This book is linked to the Lyon books and also to the Author's Never the Bride series. I have read books 1 & 6 of that series but the story is a good standalone. Book 2 is John's brother's book. but on't expect the hero's titles to make sense. I'm glad that Rebecca lost her temper with John and showed him what he was missing!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this short story. John is popular flirt with the ladies. Rebecca is disappointed as she thought they had a decent relationsjip and that John might propose. She realises that she's restricted by society in showing her interest. She tries her best by writing to him but he doesn't take the hint so in a do or die moment she contacts the Lyon to set up an intervention. There's good reasons for John's reluctance and Rebecca has to work hard for her HEA. This book is linked to the Lyon books and also to the Author's Never the Bride series. I have read books 1 & 6 of that series but the story is a good standalone. Book 2 is John's brother's book. but on't expect the hero's titles to make sense. I'm glad that Rebecca lost her temper with John and showed him what he was missing!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 25, 2021
I like this story, it's short, sweet and romantic.
Rebecca waited a long time for John Lennox, known as the Lion Lennox, to propose. Now she is going to engage the help of the owner of an exclusive club to help her to achieve her goal: marriage to the man she loves.
John is intrigued by the misterious invitation to the selective club. Maybe it's the answer to his prayer. The exclusive club is known for providing wives to members of the ton. He was once in love with Rebecca but lost her because of his shyness.
Now they are going to face each other in a completely different light. Is there still a chance for them to be together?
I really like Rebecca. She is terrify and still fights for her desires. John is a bit dull and definitely not shy from my point of view, but loves her and gives her everything she dreams of. They are good together. I enjoy their encounter a lot! Steamy!!
I've received an ARC of this book and all the options are my own
Rebecca waited a long time for John Lennox, known as the Lion Lennox, to propose. Now she is going to engage the help of the owner of an exclusive club to help her to achieve her goal: marriage to the man she loves.
John is intrigued by the misterious invitation to the selective club. Maybe it's the answer to his prayer. The exclusive club is known for providing wives to members of the ton. He was once in love with Rebecca but lost her because of his shyness.
Now they are going to face each other in a completely different light. Is there still a chance for them to be together?
I really like Rebecca. She is terrify and still fights for her desires. John is a bit dull and definitely not shy from my point of view, but loves her and gives her everything she dreams of. They are good together. I enjoy their encounter a lot! Steamy!!
I've received an ARC of this book and all the options are my own
April 27, 2021
I'm soooo disappointed by this book, i had high expectations for this one considering that it's my third book by the author, and i fell in love with the previous two, but this one was just bad.
Firstly, the title isn't fitting at all, the guy kept saying he was shy the entire time, he literally couldn't express his love because of his shyness, so what was there to tame??!!
Secondly, he said that he loved Rebecca from the beginning and that she was the only one who managed to own his heart, and yet he went to play this game knowing he is to seduced by a woman!!
Also, the events weren't logical at all, so if you can't tell someone you love him; you just seduce him?? That was quite bizarre.
Honestly, wasn't worth the time.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review via netgalley*
Firstly, the title isn't fitting at all, the guy kept saying he was shy the entire time, he literally couldn't express his love because of his shyness, so what was there to tame??!!
Secondly, he said that he loved Rebecca from the beginning and that she was the only one who managed to own his heart, and yet he went to play this game knowing he is to seduced by a woman!!
Also, the events weren't logical at all, so if you can't tell someone you love him; you just seduce him?? That was quite bizarre.
Honestly, wasn't worth the time.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review via netgalley*
March 7, 2021
Miss Rebecca Darby thought she has found the perfect husband material in John Lennox, Marquis of Gloucester. But lately, he has been hiding from her. What to do? She needs someone to help her bring John back into reality. Of course, she has heard of Mrs. Dove-Lyon and the Lyons Den and decides to find help there. Rebecca knows that she has helped many young women and hopes that she can be one. When John receives a written invitation to gamble at the Lyons Den, he decides to enter that world and see what it is like. What an interesting concept where women rule, and men follow orders. Will John be able to be saved or will he escape into the darkness? I love this series and the wonderful conclusions each story brings.
February 21, 2021
Miss Rebecca Darby decides to take action she’s been courted by John Lennox, Marquis of Gloucester for the last few months. His kisses are amazing and she just knows he’s in love with her. Why has he’s decided to stop courting her? She seeks Black Widow of the Lyon’s Den help. John is a shy young man, he’s falling in love, but he’s afraid to act on he’s feeling. He’s about to have the experience the mystery of love. Now he’s been summoned to the Lyon’s Den. I love this little cat and mouse game of chance as Rebecca seeks answers and win the man she loves one way or another. I have voluntarily read and reviewed the excellent book.
February 24, 2021
This novella was a quick and nice read. Two people are in love with each and cannot express or tell their feelings. Rebecca has sent letters to John, Marquis of Gloucester, hinting about her love for him. John never picked up on anything, even though he was very interested in Rebecca. John has his reason for not proposing marriage. Rebecca decides to take things into her own hands and approaches Mrs. Dove-Lyon, the Black Widow of Whitehall to help her. Rebecca overcomes her shyness to try and seduce John, but will it work?
I received this novel from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received this novel from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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