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Markham Hall #3
The Punishment of Ivy Leavold
I ran as far as I could, but I knew he would find me. In fact, I counted on it.
I counted on him punishing me too.
Once Ivy Leavold learned the truth behind the night of her cousin's death, she knew should couldn't stay with Julian Markham any longer and fled to London on what was supposed to be the day of their wedding. But Julian Markham is not the kind of man who takes running away lightly, especially when he finds out that Ivy still wants him...
I counted on him punishing me too.
Once Ivy Leavold learned the truth behind the night of her cousin's death, she knew should couldn't stay with Julian Markham any longer and fled to London on what was supposed to be the day of their wedding. But Julian Markham is not the kind of man who takes running away lightly, especially when he finds out that Ivy still wants him...
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2015
229 people are currently reading
2454 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
November 23, 2017
I knew what he was going to do as soon as he lifted the hem of my dress and tugged the interfering clothes away. I should have said no. I should have said that we had to keep away from each other until we could make decisions about our future. But the tired apathy was blasted away in his intense presence, leaving only a quickening pulse and a growing hunger in its wake. So what I said instead was, "Someone will see..."
Someone fan me please to cool down...
This book will definitely push your limits – especially the scene at the ball, when Ivy becomes the main event.
In this book, we will also read Julian’s point of view. Obviously we will understand better his personal torment after Ivy left him and his deep love for her. Julian will not stop chasing Ivy and waiting for her acceptance for his marriage proposal. Ivy on the other hand, will find her Aunt Esther and she will finally have a family that cares for her.
The big mystery about the death of Julian’s previous wife will be solved and I have to admit that I had suspected who was the murderer since book 2. I just thought that there were more partners in crime.
Finally, I would love to read more about Baron and Ivy’s aunt, Esther. Can we have more books please?
Someone fan me please to cool down...
This book will definitely push your limits – especially the scene at the ball, when Ivy becomes the main event.
In this book, we will also read Julian’s point of view. Obviously we will understand better his personal torment after Ivy left him and his deep love for her. Julian will not stop chasing Ivy and waiting for her acceptance for his marriage proposal. Ivy on the other hand, will find her Aunt Esther and she will finally have a family that cares for her.
The big mystery about the death of Julian’s previous wife will be solved and I have to admit that I had suspected who was the murderer since book 2. I just thought that there were more partners in crime.
Finally, I would love to read more about Baron and Ivy’s aunt, Esther. Can we have more books please?
June 5, 2015
This series is KINKY and layered with the most wonderful element of intrigue and suspense. It's a story that at it's heart is about love and BDSM desires so an open mind is essential to enjoy the reading experience.... and wow.... it's so well written and beautiful. I'll get my thoughts together and post a full review soon.
FULL REVIEW THOUGHTS TO COME SOON!
FULL REVIEW THOUGHTS TO COME SOON!
September 19, 2015
5 "Punish Me" Stars.
Ivy has come a long way since first arriving at Markham Hall. She was such a solitary woman before meeting Julian Markham. Book three opens with the separation of Ivy and Julian due to Ivy's doubts about her sexual preferences and proclivities.
During their separation, Julian is determined to win back Ivy and starts to court her traditionally until the night of the Baron's masquerade party. During that evening, Ivy accepts her self-inflicted punishment of denial and accepts Julian's punishment for pleasure.
Needless to say, the sex is off the charts and Julian is a beast in the bedroom, library, stairwell, dining room - - you name it!
"Anything you want, I panted, so caught up with lust and love and the fucking amazing sensation on my cock. Anything you want and I'll give it to you. Let me do it for you. She looked up at me, eyes full and deep. Punish me, she whispered."
"Had enough, I rasped. She shook her head. More, she said."
I completely and utterly enjoyed this series and selfishly wish it could have been longer to experience more of Julian Markham and Ivy. The mystery of Violet's death is revealed, which allows Julian to free himself from his tortured past. With their return to Markham Hall, Julian and Ivy continue on their journey without any doubts and freely give all of themselves to one another.
Ivy has come a long way since first arriving at Markham Hall. She was such a solitary woman before meeting Julian Markham. Book three opens with the separation of Ivy and Julian due to Ivy's doubts about her sexual preferences and proclivities.
During their separation, Julian is determined to win back Ivy and starts to court her traditionally until the night of the Baron's masquerade party. During that evening, Ivy accepts her self-inflicted punishment of denial and accepts Julian's punishment for pleasure.
Needless to say, the sex is off the charts and Julian is a beast in the bedroom, library, stairwell, dining room - - you name it!
"Anything you want, I panted, so caught up with lust and love and the fucking amazing sensation on my cock. Anything you want and I'll give it to you. Let me do it for you. She looked up at me, eyes full and deep. Punish me, she whispered."
"Had enough, I rasped. She shook her head. More, she said."
I completely and utterly enjoyed this series and selfishly wish it could have been longer to experience more of Julian Markham and Ivy. The mystery of Violet's death is revealed, which allows Julian to free himself from his tortured past. With their return to Markham Hall, Julian and Ivy continue on their journey without any doubts and freely give all of themselves to one another.
June 6, 2015
HOT DAMN... Review to come!!!
February 27, 2024
A gorgeous conclusion to a gorgeous series. Full RTC.
After the events of book 2, Ivy needs some space from the devastatingly irresistible Mr. Julian Markham (but she gives him permission to come after her). Moving in with her newly found aunt Esther, Ivy unpacks her relationship with Julian along with their preferences in the bedroom. While Ivy is deciding what's next for their relationship, Julian attempts to give her the "proper" courtship that they were denied at Markham Hall. But don't worry, this book is still hella steamy.
This book is really about Ivy wrestling with her desires and whether they're "moral” or “ladylike.” While she's unconventional in many ways given her upbringing-her parents are dead, her late older brother was also a mess, so she basically raised herself-she's still shackled by the expectations of the time period: women should be untouched until marriage and sex should be a duty, not something that is enjoyable or pleasurable. So, the fact that she's in a pseudo-Dom/Sub relationship with an older man who is believed to have murdered at least ONE of his wives (who happened to be Ivy's cousin) has her spiraling a bit. While the big obstacle in Book 2 is whether Julian killed Violet (I won't spoil it here) in Book 3, the biggest obstacle to Ivy and Julian's HEA is...internalized misogyny. Once Ivy gets out of her own way-thanks to Molly-and realizes that there's nothing wrong with her desires she can fully dive into a relationship with Julian.
The way I inhaled the last two books in two days 😭I read the first book in the series last year, and I've been meaning to finish it for a while now. The push and pull between Ivy and Julian was delicious and the addition of Julian's POV in the final book added to the tension. And because this is Sierra Simone, the sex scenes nearly scorched my kindle. I was fanning myself and clutching my pearls. FYI: if you're not into group sexy times in your romances.... maybe don't pick up this series.
Now I need to read Silas and Molly's books because...they've gotten my attention. I WOULD ALSO LOVE A NOVELLA ABOUT THE BARON AND AUNT ESTHER.
Ivy and Julian's songs: "Wicked Game" cover by Annaca and Unholy (orchestral version) by Sam Smith.
After the events of book 2, Ivy needs some space from the devastatingly irresistible Mr. Julian Markham (but she gives him permission to come after her). Moving in with her newly found aunt Esther, Ivy unpacks her relationship with Julian along with their preferences in the bedroom. While Ivy is deciding what's next for their relationship, Julian attempts to give her the "proper" courtship that they were denied at Markham Hall. But don't worry, this book is still hella steamy.
This book is really about Ivy wrestling with her desires and whether they're "moral” or “ladylike.” While she's unconventional in many ways given her upbringing-her parents are dead, her late older brother was also a mess, so she basically raised herself-she's still shackled by the expectations of the time period: women should be untouched until marriage and sex should be a duty, not something that is enjoyable or pleasurable. So, the fact that she's in a pseudo-Dom/Sub relationship with an older man who is believed to have murdered at least ONE of his wives (who happened to be Ivy's cousin) has her spiraling a bit. While the big obstacle in Book 2 is whether Julian killed Violet (I won't spoil it here) in Book 3, the biggest obstacle to Ivy and Julian's HEA is...internalized misogyny. Once Ivy gets out of her own way-thanks to Molly-and realizes that there's nothing wrong with her desires she can fully dive into a relationship with Julian.
The way I inhaled the last two books in two days 😭I read the first book in the series last year, and I've been meaning to finish it for a while now. The push and pull between Ivy and Julian was delicious and the addition of Julian's POV in the final book added to the tension. And because this is Sierra Simone, the sex scenes nearly scorched my kindle. I was fanning myself and clutching my pearls. FYI: if you're not into group sexy times in your romances.... maybe don't pick up this series.
Now I need to read Silas and Molly's books because...they've gotten my attention. I WOULD ALSO LOVE A NOVELLA ABOUT THE BARON AND AUNT ESTHER.
Ivy and Julian's songs: "Wicked Game" cover by Annaca and Unholy (orchestral version) by Sam Smith.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2015
In this, the final part of Ivy and Mr Markham' s story we finally get all of the answers to the dark mystery surrounding the death of his last wife. But we get lots more smut too, with their sexual deviancy crossing from naughty to full on kink in this instalment.
This picks up immediately after the events of the second book and Ivy has moved in with her long lost aunt while she decides whether she's willing to embrace her inner submissive. She feels obliged to act like a fine, upstanding lady just as society expects of her, but she's unhappy and ill at ease in her new life. Fortunately Mr Markham is willing to give her space but not for too long. He sets about wooing her openly at balls and other society events, but being the kinkster he is, it's not long before he's got her petticoats all ruffled.
There was more story and less smut in this one and quite a bit of excitement thrown in at one point so I really enjoyed it. This completes their story but I'm excited to see there'll be a book about Silas next. Looking forward to that.
Recommended.
This picks up immediately after the events of the second book and Ivy has moved in with her long lost aunt while she decides whether she's willing to embrace her inner submissive. She feels obliged to act like a fine, upstanding lady just as society expects of her, but she's unhappy and ill at ease in her new life. Fortunately Mr Markham is willing to give her space but not for too long. He sets about wooing her openly at balls and other society events, but being the kinkster he is, it's not long before he's got her petticoats all ruffled.
There was more story and less smut in this one and quite a bit of excitement thrown in at one point so I really enjoyed it. This completes their story but I'm excited to see there'll be a book about Silas next. Looking forward to that.
Recommended.
October 13, 2015
**4.5 Punishing Stars**
In book three we got to read Julian's POVS and I fell even more in love with him. It got even more erotic and it definitely pushed some of my boundaries, but I so enjoyed it!
In book three we got to read Julian's POVS and I fell even more in love with him. It got even more erotic and it definitely pushed some of my boundaries, but I so enjoyed it!
March 30, 2015
The conclusion to Ivy and Julian's story was great! This trilogy was very well written, and I continue to be impressed with the beautiful blend of sexy-times and murder mystery in this story.
Julian was very nearly a perfect hero in my opinion. He was good looking, dark/broody at times, he was deliciously aggressive in the bedroom, and yet he still possessed some gentlemanly valor. He was an intriguing character and I was excited that we got a few chapters from Julian's perspective in this final installment.
Ivy was an equally well written character. She started off alone and while she was confident in many ways at the start of the story she managed to continue to develop throughout the trilogy. She came to accept her sexual proclivities and embrace them regardless of society's opinion. While I did want to smack her at times (like when she wasn't with Julian) I couldn't help but enjoy her character.
Some of the peripheral characters in this story were great! I really loved Silas and the Baron!
I would definitely recommend this trilogy to others and look forward to any future books from this author.
June 27, 2015
Saving the best part for last...review soon
June 20, 2015
I couldn't put into words how freaking great this series was. Devoured it within days and I just couldn't get enough. Certainly one of my top reads this year. 5+++ stars!!!
December 15, 2015
Ivy Leavold has nowhere to go. Her brother has died, and left her penniless. Her only option is to accept the kind offer of going to live with her late cousin’s husband; Julian Markham.
Julian Markham is a serious, handsome and possessive man. He reeks of domination, and it doesn’t take Ivy long to fall under his spell.
I’m not a big fan of historical romance, and this may not truly reside within that genre if I was a diehard fan. But to say I was completely under Mr Markham’s spell too, would be an understatement. I didn’t find her descriptions too flowery or monotone, as I had naively anticipated from a historical. But she totally captured the world at that time, through dialogue as well as characterisation.
This story was purely captivating, not only for the mystery surrounding the elusive Mr Markham and his band of merry friends, but for the relationship that developed between himself and Ivy. Ivy was a fantastic character, who had picked herself up from potential squalor, only to find herself the subject of the chattering domestics.
I won’t retell the story, because it unfolds quite nicely through the Markham Hall series. They are fairly short, so you can enjoy it relatively quickly.
This series rigidly confirms that Ms Simone has a unique talent at writing not only erotic romance, but has opened a further door for me to step through.
Utterly splendid!
Julian Markham is a serious, handsome and possessive man. He reeks of domination, and it doesn’t take Ivy long to fall under his spell.
I’m not a big fan of historical romance, and this may not truly reside within that genre if I was a diehard fan. But to say I was completely under Mr Markham’s spell too, would be an understatement. I didn’t find her descriptions too flowery or monotone, as I had naively anticipated from a historical. But she totally captured the world at that time, through dialogue as well as characterisation.
This story was purely captivating, not only for the mystery surrounding the elusive Mr Markham and his band of merry friends, but for the relationship that developed between himself and Ivy. Ivy was a fantastic character, who had picked herself up from potential squalor, only to find herself the subject of the chattering domestics.
I won’t retell the story, because it unfolds quite nicely through the Markham Hall series. They are fairly short, so you can enjoy it relatively quickly.
This series rigidly confirms that Ms Simone has a unique talent at writing not only erotic romance, but has opened a further door for me to step through.
Utterly splendid!
”He was handsome and darkly unpredictable, intelligent and generous with his pleasure. He haunted my thoughts day and night, every hour, every minute, and I thirsted for his company like a forest for rain. I was obsessed, I knew, obsessed in a way that spoke almost more of love than of lust.”
April 22, 2015
What I think of Julian?
Ah, more of Mr. Markham. But, of course! Considering in this book, there is a dual POV. I’m just blown away that I am able to peek in Mr. Markham’s mind. His thoughts, what he is thinking, and of course, my favorite part and favorite position of him when he is thinking. I wish he would just think more. LOL
As the mystery of Mr. Markham is unraveled, I was left an emotional wreck with Ivy’s decisions and the result of it to Julian.
I didn't actually expect everything that would happen. And although it brought out devastation, all I can say is that it was a very beautiful ending.
Ah, more of Mr. Markham. But, of course! Considering in this book, there is a dual POV. I’m just blown away that I am able to peek in Mr. Markham’s mind. His thoughts, what he is thinking, and of course, my favorite part and favorite position of him when he is thinking. I wish he would just think more. LOL
As the mystery of Mr. Markham is unraveled, I was left an emotional wreck with Ivy’s decisions and the result of it to Julian.
Me:
I didn't actually expect everything that would happen. And although it brought out devastation, all I can say is that it was a very beautiful ending.
June 8, 2015
Review to follow at the end of the entire series.
June 11, 2023
When I read that book 3 was called The Punishment, I wondered what on Earth did Ivy do (it was before I finished The Education). But then I got to the point where she didn't turn up to her wedding and I thought - hey girl he is going to smack your backside for that!
Our lovely wildcat goes off to claim kin in fancy London, with fancy London frocks and fancy London parties. Ivy!
Barons. Dances. Hello Silas. Hello Molly.
Come on Mr Markham claim your girl.
"I was still her teacher, she was still my pupil. She was still mine."
"I was a machine that no longer worked properly, a watch without cogs, a compass without a magnet."
The sex scenes are panty melting. The plot is like something out of cluedo. The professor did it. The reverend did it. The housekeeper did it. The cook did it. The floosie did it. The butler did it. Maybe the Rector's wife did it.
THIS IS FROM ME - I DON'T DO HISTORICAL! I'm a classics girl, it seems like sacrilege - if I want period I take Bronte sisters, Hardy, Eliot, I meh a bit at Austen. But, I loved The Markham Hall Series. Smitten. Karen and Ivy/Julian sitting in a tree. K.I.S.S.I.N.G.
I could nit pick and say, no ass in Yorkshire at that time, arse, derrière, backside. And bluebells - May for bluebells, full stop. Sorry - I am nit picking only because I want Sierra to ask me to be her UK consultant on the Silas and Molly story! Hey - me Yorkshire girl *pointing at me. Me! ME!
Loved all 3 and guess what I heard? A little novella to finish. Perfect.
You want some quotes?
"Ivy Leavold belongs in a primeval forest somewhere, shrouded in fog, face painted with woad, with ritual fires and otherworldly spirits glinting around her."
"The same way that people were drawn to the tigers stalking agitated circles in their pens, they were drawn to Ivy. Women wanted to be her, men wanted to domesticate her, and everybody was fascinated by her. Mine."
"If you were still mine, my dick would be buried in that perfect mouth right now. If you were still mine, I'd bend you over the nearest chair and make all these guests watch as I ate your cunt and made you come in front of them like a little slut."
"She laid her head against my shoulder and sighed happily. It was like having an exotic bird land willingly on your finger or having a tiger purr under your touch. It was both magical and humbling."
Still a five star because the amazing out weighs my nits!
Re-read done. Still spectacular.
Our lovely wildcat goes off to claim kin in fancy London, with fancy London frocks and fancy London parties. Ivy!
Barons. Dances. Hello Silas. Hello Molly.
Come on Mr Markham claim your girl.
"I was still her teacher, she was still my pupil. She was still mine."
"I was a machine that no longer worked properly, a watch without cogs, a compass without a magnet."
The sex scenes are panty melting. The plot is like something out of cluedo. The professor did it. The reverend did it. The housekeeper did it. The cook did it. The floosie did it. The butler did it. Maybe the Rector's wife did it.
THIS IS FROM ME - I DON'T DO HISTORICAL! I'm a classics girl, it seems like sacrilege - if I want period I take Bronte sisters, Hardy, Eliot, I meh a bit at Austen. But, I loved The Markham Hall Series. Smitten. Karen and Ivy/Julian sitting in a tree. K.I.S.S.I.N.G.
I could nit pick and say, no ass in Yorkshire at that time, arse, derrière, backside. And bluebells - May for bluebells, full stop. Sorry - I am nit picking only because I want Sierra to ask me to be her UK consultant on the Silas and Molly story! Hey - me Yorkshire girl *pointing at me. Me! ME!
Loved all 3 and guess what I heard? A little novella to finish. Perfect.
You want some quotes?
"Ivy Leavold belongs in a primeval forest somewhere, shrouded in fog, face painted with woad, with ritual fires and otherworldly spirits glinting around her."
"The same way that people were drawn to the tigers stalking agitated circles in their pens, they were drawn to Ivy. Women wanted to be her, men wanted to domesticate her, and everybody was fascinated by her. Mine."
"If you were still mine, my dick would be buried in that perfect mouth right now. If you were still mine, I'd bend you over the nearest chair and make all these guests watch as I ate your cunt and made you come in front of them like a little slut."
"She laid her head against my shoulder and sighed happily. It was like having an exotic bird land willingly on your finger or having a tiger purr under your touch. It was both magical and humbling."
Still a five star because the amazing out weighs my nits!
Re-read done. Still spectacular.
December 21, 2015
What a freaking disappointment...
It didn't worked for me at all...i swear,the first book was amazing...In this one they just acted like horny hormonal teenagers with bipolar feelings "Oh i love you but i can't be with you but still...i will fuck you.YOLO" I rolled my eyes too many times.And that's a bad sign. Sierra...Why?!
The only scene that i really really loved was table scene (the one at the Baron) because of course,there was Silas.And the ones where he only just talked...God dammit i love him.
In this book we also find out the one who murdered Ivy. Actually it didn't surprised me at all.It was one of my suspects. We finally get all of the answers,so now i'm asking myself if the fourth book is going to be a one star. I gaved the first one 5 stars,the second one 3,the third one 2 and the fourth?! I'm even scared to read it. Is it worth it? This is feeling so repetitive at this point that i can't ...
“Anything you want and I’ll give it to you. Let me do it to you.” She looked up at me, eyes full and deep. “Punish me,” she whispered.”
It didn't worked for me at all...i swear,the first book was amazing...In this one they just acted like horny hormonal teenagers with bipolar feelings "Oh i love you but i can't be with you but still...i will fuck you.YOLO" I rolled my eyes too many times.And that's a bad sign. Sierra...Why?!
The only scene that i really really loved was table scene (the one at the Baron) because of course,there was Silas.And the ones where he only just talked...God dammit i love him.
In this book we also find out the one who murdered Ivy. Actually it didn't surprised me at all.It was one of my suspects. We finally get all of the answers,so now i'm asking myself if the fourth book is going to be a one star. I gaved the first one 5 stars,the second one 3,the third one 2 and the fourth?! I'm even scared to read it. Is it worth it? This is feeling so repetitive at this point that i can't ...
“Anything you want and I’ll give it to you. Let me do it to you.” She looked up at me, eyes full and deep. “Punish me,” she whispered.”
December 16, 2015
After Mr Markham's confession about her cousin's death at the end of The Education of Ivy Leavold, Ivy Leavold decided to give herself some space to think and went to London to live with her aunt.
“Something twisted inside me then, something sharp, and I couldn’t bring myself to examine it head on. I didn’t need to. I already knew what it was. It was love and it was pain and it was the realization that I wanted nothing more than to be with Mr. Markham and he wanted nothing more than to be with me and that it was only my fear keeping us apart.”
Determined to get Ivy back, Mr Markham followed her to London and decided to court her properly, even if it drove him mad not being able to be with her like when they were back in Markham Hall.
I think this is my favorite book in the series. The events in this book is sort of a reality check for both Ivy and Mr Markham, and for the first time we also get a glimpse of what is happening inside Mr Markham's head in which where he also recalled how Ivy captured his interest at first glance, how surprised he was that she returned his interest initially, and eventually his feelings.
“I wanted to make her better. I wanted to heal her. I also wanted to fuck her ass until she begged for forgiveness.”
Ivy still had her doubts about Mr Markham, and while she feared him, she also feared the feelings he evoked within her and the things she herself wanted to do with him and the things she wanted him to do with her, to her. It was not right, but who was to say what was right and what was not?
Loved this book. Sure, for most part of the book it was sex (it is erotica after all) and going back and forwards with this two but I really liked the raw emotion portrayed in the words. Sierra Simone is without a doubt an excellent writer, and I'm just simply transfixed with the story.
Also, Silas... Yum.
“Something twisted inside me then, something sharp, and I couldn’t bring myself to examine it head on. I didn’t need to. I already knew what it was. It was love and it was pain and it was the realization that I wanted nothing more than to be with Mr. Markham and he wanted nothing more than to be with me and that it was only my fear keeping us apart.”
Determined to get Ivy back, Mr Markham followed her to London and decided to court her properly, even if it drove him mad not being able to be with her like when they were back in Markham Hall.
I think this is my favorite book in the series. The events in this book is sort of a reality check for both Ivy and Mr Markham, and for the first time we also get a glimpse of what is happening inside Mr Markham's head in which where he also recalled how Ivy captured his interest at first glance, how surprised he was that she returned his interest initially, and eventually his feelings.
“I wanted to make her better. I wanted to heal her. I also wanted to fuck her ass until she begged for forgiveness.”
Ivy still had her doubts about Mr Markham, and while she feared him, she also feared the feelings he evoked within her and the things she herself wanted to do with him and the things she wanted him to do with her, to her. It was not right, but who was to say what was right and what was not?
Loved this book. Sure, for most part of the book it was sex (it is erotica after all) and going back and forwards with this two but I really liked the raw emotion portrayed in the words. Sierra Simone is without a doubt an excellent writer, and I'm just simply transfixed with the story.
Also, Silas... Yum.
June 23, 2015
This series is HAWT!!!! I love Mr Markham's alpha sexiness, but I love how much he adores/loves Ivy even more. Who knew sexy in the late 1700s was so blantantly hawt n sexy???!!!
June 30, 2022
I really liked the Baron! Can we have a series on him please?
April 20, 2019
That was just so so good
I loved Julian pov chapters beyond words he’s quickly become one of my favorite historical heros ever
This story has touched my heart
I loved Julian pov chapters beyond words he’s quickly become one of my favorite historical heros ever
This story has touched my heart
June 20, 2023
Non pensavo di dare due stelle ad un libro di Sierra Simone, ma mi sono ricreduta a metà libro.
Noioso. Talmente noioso da far fatica anche a finirlo, nonostante sia molto corto.
Non lo consiglio assolutamente.
Noioso. Talmente noioso da far fatica anche a finirlo, nonostante sia molto corto.
Non lo consiglio assolutamente.
March 9, 2015
Mystery solved
Well that was certainly a surprise! I was not expecting that and it was a well written twist of events, a great ending to this trilogy. Ivy struggled with her identity in this installment, which is where the loss of star comes in from me. While I don't mind a little inner turmoil, much of this book was dedicated to her vacillating between being with Julian or resigning herself to a lifetime of loneliness. Ivy and Julian had such chemistry, I would've much rather read about that. When she finally got her act together, it was explosive and wonderful. Julian makes no apologies for his dominating ways and once Ivy accepts that she too craves 'the dark side' everything falls into place. With the mystery surrounding the death of Julian's second wife solved, there's definitely a HEA in their future. Enjoyed it and will look for more from this author.
Well that was certainly a surprise! I was not expecting that and it was a well written twist of events, a great ending to this trilogy. Ivy struggled with her identity in this installment, which is where the loss of star comes in from me. While I don't mind a little inner turmoil, much of this book was dedicated to her vacillating between being with Julian or resigning herself to a lifetime of loneliness. Ivy and Julian had such chemistry, I would've much rather read about that. When she finally got her act together, it was explosive and wonderful. Julian makes no apologies for his dominating ways and once Ivy accepts that she too craves 'the dark side' everything falls into place. With the mystery surrounding the death of Julian's second wife solved, there's definitely a HEA in their future. Enjoyed it and will look for more from this author.
March 12, 2015
I adored this series!! The writing is smart and highly entertaining (oh, those kinky parties!) Ivy took some time away from Julian in this book to sort herself and I admired how strong she was. I was hoping their separation wouldn't last long though, because they are definitely one hot couple. I enjoyed the twists that were revealed and I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
March 10, 2015
Absolutely loved this series! So glad we'll get more Silas and Molly in the future!
October 20, 2015
The chills and feels doubled when Sierra Simone included Julian's POV.
July 25, 2023
bro what the flip like someone died because of you and literally all your thinking about is tapping your to-be wife's ass like i am confus-
November 17, 2022
three stars! ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ istg i need to find a man who talks like julian OOF
this was a pretty good last book, although tbh i didn’t really care for plot towards the end. i would’ve been a-okay with this simply being about ivy and markham figuring things out without any other plot line. i did really enjoy the conversation concerning feeling comfortable with your sexual self instead of being ashamed by it!
overall not the total best book series, but it was pretty entertaining and filled with good characters and even better smut!
this was a pretty good last book, although tbh i didn’t really care for plot towards the end. i would’ve been a-okay with this simply being about ivy and markham figuring things out without any other plot line. i did really enjoy the conversation concerning feeling comfortable with your sexual self instead of being ashamed by it!
overall not the total best book series, but it was pretty entertaining and filled with good characters and even better smut!
August 2, 2025
This is the third and final book in this couple's story. Ivy has realized now that Julian is the one. She's found out what happened the night her cousin died and now all she wants is to be with Julian. She goes to Molly for advice and is finally ready to be with Julian. We finally get the answer to who murdered her cousin and even though it wasn't a surprise for me, I really enjoyed what follows her finding out. I also liked the epilogue. Highly recommend this series.
April 13, 2015
Leigh's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 Stars
(Leigh reviewed books 2 & 3 together)
Who knew that Regency England could be so scorchingly hot underneath all of that formality?
In the final two books of the trilogy, we follow Ivy as she questions the role Mr. Markham played in the death of his wife and whether she should leave him despite the love they feel for one another. I wanted to reach into the book and yell “NO!”
These two people were perfectly matched. Ivy came to Markham Hall as a wild yet innocent girl, just starting to learn about herself and her desires. And in one another, Julian Markham and Ivy Leavold found someone who understood their deepest wants and needs. Julian found a woman who he could love with the intensity and passion that consumed him, and Ivy found a man that she wanted to own her body and soul. But as secrets are revealed, she questions whether she SHOULD want the things that she does, and whether her desires are evil and wrong.
Throughout the story, I adored Julian. He was dominant, sure of himself and his desires and made no excuses for the type of man he was. He was dangerous, he was dark, but he also loved Ivy with a passion that went beyond reason. Ivy was his true match, but it angered me when she left to determine whether her sexual inclinations were wrong. She was never concerned with appearances at any other time in the book, so her sudden questioning of the morality of their sexual encounters made me want to reach out and shake some sense into her.
With the exception of Ivy’s crisis of conscience, I simply loved these books. The formality of the historic romance combined with the kinky eroticism of Ivy, Julian and all of their friends was an amazing combination. With scenes that ranged from tender and sexy to those that made me look over my shoulder to make sure no one could see what I was reading (and liking a bit too much!), I devoured these books and am left still wanting more.
We had an opportunity to see a lot of Julian’s friends in this trilogy and Ms. Simone promises more of them in future installments. If they are anything like this sex filled romp through England, then I’m in!
4.5 Stars
(Leigh reviewed books 2 & 3 together)
Who knew that Regency England could be so scorchingly hot underneath all of that formality?
In the final two books of the trilogy, we follow Ivy as she questions the role Mr. Markham played in the death of his wife and whether she should leave him despite the love they feel for one another. I wanted to reach into the book and yell “NO!”
These two people were perfectly matched. Ivy came to Markham Hall as a wild yet innocent girl, just starting to learn about herself and her desires. And in one another, Julian Markham and Ivy Leavold found someone who understood their deepest wants and needs. Julian found a woman who he could love with the intensity and passion that consumed him, and Ivy found a man that she wanted to own her body and soul. But as secrets are revealed, she questions whether she SHOULD want the things that she does, and whether her desires are evil and wrong.
Throughout the story, I adored Julian. He was dominant, sure of himself and his desires and made no excuses for the type of man he was. He was dangerous, he was dark, but he also loved Ivy with a passion that went beyond reason. Ivy was his true match, but it angered me when she left to determine whether her sexual inclinations were wrong. She was never concerned with appearances at any other time in the book, so her sudden questioning of the morality of their sexual encounters made me want to reach out and shake some sense into her.
With the exception of Ivy’s crisis of conscience, I simply loved these books. The formality of the historic romance combined with the kinky eroticism of Ivy, Julian and all of their friends was an amazing combination. With scenes that ranged from tender and sexy to those that made me look over my shoulder to make sure no one could see what I was reading (and liking a bit too much!), I devoured these books and am left still wanting more.
We had an opportunity to see a lot of Julian’s friends in this trilogy and Ms. Simone promises more of them in future installments. If they are anything like this sex filled romp through England, then I’m in!
March 25, 2015
So I just finished the final book in Ivy and Julian’s journey. And what a perfect ending. Yes. We had some hiccups, and some soul searching, and some punishing. A mystery and suspense. And sexy times. Good lord the sexiness. With each book I would find myself asking “how is Sierra going to top the sexy times in this one?!?!” But let me tell you this. She does. Every. Single. Book. Each book holds some kind of taboo. And in The Punishment, there is a certain part. Let’s just say it was probably one of the hottest scenes ever.
Book 3 starts as Ivy sets off to find herself. Away from Julian. To see if this “lifestyle” is something that she really wants. I mean seriously. HOW CAN YOU NOT!!!! But she leaves. Goes to stay with her aunt. And is basically miserable. During this time, Julian decides to court Ivy. Properly.
They go on strolls, they talk, they go to a party…ahem. At this party, things take an interesting turn and Miss Ivy is THOROUGHLY punished. Whoever thought a punishment could be so great!!!!
What I loved most about this series, is that you get a scorching hot historical romance. But yet, it reads so modern. Without losing the essence of the time frame. You also get a mystery. That is solved in this book. I’d like to say now, that I was wrong. My theories. Totally. And utterly wrong. But it was fun trying to guess.
This series just had it all. That wow factor. Sierra’s writing is fresh, new, completely different from anything that I’ve ever read. Her words just suck you in and make you feel like you are sitting in a corset fanning yourself with one of those old fancy paper fans. Sierra does not hold back in the sexy times department either. She gives it to you raw and unfiltered. Just the way I like it. I am a forever fan. I can’t wait for Sierra’s next masterpiece. I have a feeling I might need church after her next book. Ahem.
Book 3 starts as Ivy sets off to find herself. Away from Julian. To see if this “lifestyle” is something that she really wants. I mean seriously. HOW CAN YOU NOT!!!! But she leaves. Goes to stay with her aunt. And is basically miserable. During this time, Julian decides to court Ivy. Properly.
They go on strolls, they talk, they go to a party…ahem. At this party, things take an interesting turn and Miss Ivy is THOROUGHLY punished. Whoever thought a punishment could be so great!!!!
What I loved most about this series, is that you get a scorching hot historical romance. But yet, it reads so modern. Without losing the essence of the time frame. You also get a mystery. That is solved in this book. I’d like to say now, that I was wrong. My theories. Totally. And utterly wrong. But it was fun trying to guess.
This series just had it all. That wow factor. Sierra’s writing is fresh, new, completely different from anything that I’ve ever read. Her words just suck you in and make you feel like you are sitting in a corset fanning yourself with one of those old fancy paper fans. Sierra does not hold back in the sexy times department either. She gives it to you raw and unfiltered. Just the way I like it. I am a forever fan. I can’t wait for Sierra’s next masterpiece. I have a feeling I might need church after her next book. Ahem.
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