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The Phoenix Club #2
Impassioned
Society’s most exclusive invitation...
Welcome to the Phoenix Club, where London’s most audacious, disreputable, and intriguing ladies and gentlemen find scandal, redemption, and second chances.
In nearly two years of marriage, Sabrina Westbrook has barely spoken to her husband and shared a bed even less. Both activities would require they actually live together. As it is, the Earl of Aldington attends to his seat in the House of Commons, while she and her crippling social anxiety tend to his country house and gardens.
Their arrangement is quite civilized, and their letters are painfully polite. Their twice-yearly visits are…awkward. But, if Sabrina can muster the necessary courage, all of that is about to change. Starting tonight.
Heir to a dukedom, Constantine Westbrook knows his duty: to country, to family, and to the shy, retiring wife whose beauty stole his breath the moment they met. Whose arousing, enticing body he’s never seen in the light of day. Or any light at all.
However, there’s something different about the woman who shows up in London unannounced. For the first time in their marriage, Sabrina has a request. No, a demand. But wanting and having are two different things. And to give Sabrina her heart’s desire, they’ll both need a few lessons in love…
Welcome to the Phoenix Club, where London’s most audacious, disreputable, and intriguing ladies and gentlemen find scandal, redemption, and second chances.
In nearly two years of marriage, Sabrina Westbrook has barely spoken to her husband and shared a bed even less. Both activities would require they actually live together. As it is, the Earl of Aldington attends to his seat in the House of Commons, while she and her crippling social anxiety tend to his country house and gardens.
Their arrangement is quite civilized, and their letters are painfully polite. Their twice-yearly visits are…awkward. But, if Sabrina can muster the necessary courage, all of that is about to change. Starting tonight.
Heir to a dukedom, Constantine Westbrook knows his duty: to country, to family, and to the shy, retiring wife whose beauty stole his breath the moment they met. Whose arousing, enticing body he’s never seen in the light of day. Or any light at all.
However, there’s something different about the woman who shows up in London unannounced. For the first time in their marriage, Sabrina has a request. No, a demand. But wanting and having are two different things. And to give Sabrina her heart’s desire, they’ll both need a few lessons in love…
328 pages, Paperback
First published August 24, 2021
555 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Darcy Burke
206 books2,278 followersDarcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
September 13, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Zealous Quill Press for this arc.
While I found the story to be interesting enough to finish, I was underwhelmed with the superficial main characters. I was "told" of his work in Parliament and some background details were provided, I was "told" of her love of gardens / gardening without details. But otherwise, the main characters basically came across as sex-obsessed teen-agers who were just now learning to "use their words".
Overall, not a bad story, but one I just couldn't really get engaged with.
While I found the story to be interesting enough to finish, I was underwhelmed with the superficial main characters. I was "told" of his work in Parliament and some background details were provided, I was "told" of her love of gardens / gardening without details. But otherwise, the main characters basically came across as sex-obsessed teen-agers who were just now learning to "use their words".
Overall, not a bad story, but one I just couldn't really get engaged with.
June 25, 2022
5 Stars
I am happy. I am ecstatic. I feel validated. Okay, I should explain. I am a therapist, and I specialise in relationship & family counselling. A lot of discordant couples come to me to seek some help, and I have lost count of the number of times I may have asked them to court each other again, speak honestly, try different things together, get to know one another again, to give each other the benefit of the doubt, to not jump to conclusions, and to not stick with presumptions, in order to manage the estrangement in their romantic relationship. Hallelujah. This book showed that it works if you just persist in your efforts. I say again that I feel validated.
Quick Review
- I had read one Darcy Burke novella a long while ago, and that situation needs to be remedied going forward. Her writing was fresh, and it had a sarcastic wit.
- This was such a feel-good second chancer. I adored it. More importantly, I had fun reading it. There was something so realistic about this arranged and now estranged marriage between a dispassionate man and a woman with crippling anxiety! They were thrown in together and were expected to make it work.
- I was amazed at how well their relationship development was handled. The way they tried to please each other, their awkward conversations, the way they messed up but tried again till they succeeded, was utterly sweet.
- I enjoyed Constantine & Sabrina. They had a lovely dynamic, albeit it was quite awkward. They were both tenacious, willing to accept their faults, work towards a better future, and accept their vulnerabilities to find a level ground in a loving & sensual marriage.
- There was no villain, no excess drama, no stupid misunderstanding, just dedicated personal growth. Oh, it makes me happy!
- I enjoyed Lucien (where is his story?), Cassandra, Evie, and I even came to grudgingly like the duke. Sabrina's mom has to be the worst bitchy mother ever.
Highlights…
- Sabrina’s lessons in seduction
- Constantine refusing to cheat on his wife
- The ball from hell
- Grayson, the cat
- Lucien’s meddling
- Constantine’s annoyance with the doctor was just the cutest! 💕💕💕
*Sometimes, you do not need an overly complicated plot or deep angst or drama or a crazy villain. Sometimes, simplicity will work wonders for you. I generally complain about books being too long and about them going nowhere, but this one I read on, with nary a whisper, just a chuckle here or there.
I am happy. I am ecstatic. I feel validated. Okay, I should explain. I am a therapist, and I specialise in relationship & family counselling. A lot of discordant couples come to me to seek some help, and I have lost count of the number of times I may have asked them to court each other again, speak honestly, try different things together, get to know one another again, to give each other the benefit of the doubt, to not jump to conclusions, and to not stick with presumptions, in order to manage the estrangement in their romantic relationship. Hallelujah. This book showed that it works if you just persist in your efforts. I say again that I feel validated.
Quick Review
- I had read one Darcy Burke novella a long while ago, and that situation needs to be remedied going forward. Her writing was fresh, and it had a sarcastic wit.
- This was such a feel-good second chancer. I adored it. More importantly, I had fun reading it. There was something so realistic about this arranged and now estranged marriage between a dispassionate man and a woman with crippling anxiety! They were thrown in together and were expected to make it work.
- I was amazed at how well their relationship development was handled. The way they tried to please each other, their awkward conversations, the way they messed up but tried again till they succeeded, was utterly sweet.
- I enjoyed Constantine & Sabrina. They had a lovely dynamic, albeit it was quite awkward. They were both tenacious, willing to accept their faults, work towards a better future, and accept their vulnerabilities to find a level ground in a loving & sensual marriage.
- There was no villain, no excess drama, no stupid misunderstanding, just dedicated personal growth. Oh, it makes me happy!
- I enjoyed Lucien (where is his story?), Cassandra, Evie, and I even came to grudgingly like the duke. Sabrina's mom has to be the worst bitchy mother ever.
Highlights…
- Sabrina’s lessons in seduction
- Constantine refusing to cheat on his wife
- The ball from hell
- Grayson, the cat
- Lucien’s meddling
- Constantine’s annoyance with the doctor was just the cutest! 💕💕💕
*Sometimes, you do not need an overly complicated plot or deep angst or drama or a crazy villain. Sometimes, simplicity will work wonders for you. I generally complain about books being too long and about them going nowhere, but this one I read on, with nary a whisper, just a chuckle here or there.
August 12, 2021
Impassioned is a lovely historical romance and the second book in The Phoenix Club series by Darcy Burke. This story is unique in that the main characters are already married. However, their relationship did not begin as a grand love affair. Theirs was an arranged marriage, and after two years, they are basically estranged. However, Sabrina wants a child and is desperate to connect with her husband, so she leaves their country home where she lives and comes unannounced to their home in the city where Constantine resides. There she demands that Constantine fulfill his husbandly duties and get her pregnant.
Constantine is shocked when Sabrina, his timid and shy wife, unexpectedly arrives, and he’s even more stunned when she demands sexual relations. Their encounters are always formal and awkward, and they are few and far between. What has accounted for the change in Sabrina? Can the couple get past their problems and find a happy future together?
Constantine and Sabrina are well-developed protagonists, and I enjoyed their love story. At the start of the story, Constantine is cool and aloof, and his dispassionate attitude is known by all. He is controlled and poised, and he rarely lets things get under his skin. He is a serious man involved in politics, and he bears a lot of responsibility. Throughout the story, he changes quite a bit as he realizes what he truly wants in life. Sabrina struggles with anxiety and has spent much of her time trying to blend in instead of standing out. Uncomfortable in social settings and in situations where she doesn’t know the other people involved, Sabrina has anxiety attacks and often retreats. However, throughout the story, she faces her struggles and tries to manage them. I like that the author introduced a smart, caring, and capable woman with a realistic issue that affects many people.
I love the romance between this married couple. They are both inexperienced and uncomfortable, yet it’s obvious that they both want the same things. Miscommunication, lies, anxiety, and family pose problems for Sabrina and Constantine, yet their chemistry is ever-present. Both Sabrina and Constantine have spent their lives doing what was expected of them. They are both very much defined by societal and familial expectations because they both yearned for approval and acceptance. However, Sabrina and Constantine both begin to act on their own needs and desires instead of the expectations of people who don’t really understand or know them. I love how they slowly get to know each other and fall in love despite the fact that they’ve been married for two years. Their attraction to each other is palpable, and their feelings are strong.
Constantine and Sabrina receive help from the owners of The Phoenix Club, one of which is Constantine’s brother. I love this club and its owners. They have such a desire to help others, and they work hard to provide and outlet for people who feel like they don’t belong. The Phoenix Club is the antithesis of the other social clubs in this town and is a great backdrop for some of the more spicy scenes in the story.
This is a wonderful addition to The Phoenix Club series, and I’m excited to see who will be the focus of the next story. There were hints of possible love connections in this story that I found particularly intriguing, and I’m hoping we’ll see more of these characters in future books. Though this is the second book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. However, if you did read the first book, you’ll be delighted to know that many of the characters in it are also in this one. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Zealous Quill Press, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Constantine is shocked when Sabrina, his timid and shy wife, unexpectedly arrives, and he’s even more stunned when she demands sexual relations. Their encounters are always formal and awkward, and they are few and far between. What has accounted for the change in Sabrina? Can the couple get past their problems and find a happy future together?
Constantine and Sabrina are well-developed protagonists, and I enjoyed their love story. At the start of the story, Constantine is cool and aloof, and his dispassionate attitude is known by all. He is controlled and poised, and he rarely lets things get under his skin. He is a serious man involved in politics, and he bears a lot of responsibility. Throughout the story, he changes quite a bit as he realizes what he truly wants in life. Sabrina struggles with anxiety and has spent much of her time trying to blend in instead of standing out. Uncomfortable in social settings and in situations where she doesn’t know the other people involved, Sabrina has anxiety attacks and often retreats. However, throughout the story, she faces her struggles and tries to manage them. I like that the author introduced a smart, caring, and capable woman with a realistic issue that affects many people.
I love the romance between this married couple. They are both inexperienced and uncomfortable, yet it’s obvious that they both want the same things. Miscommunication, lies, anxiety, and family pose problems for Sabrina and Constantine, yet their chemistry is ever-present. Both Sabrina and Constantine have spent their lives doing what was expected of them. They are both very much defined by societal and familial expectations because they both yearned for approval and acceptance. However, Sabrina and Constantine both begin to act on their own needs and desires instead of the expectations of people who don’t really understand or know them. I love how they slowly get to know each other and fall in love despite the fact that they’ve been married for two years. Their attraction to each other is palpable, and their feelings are strong.
Constantine and Sabrina receive help from the owners of The Phoenix Club, one of which is Constantine’s brother. I love this club and its owners. They have such a desire to help others, and they work hard to provide and outlet for people who feel like they don’t belong. The Phoenix Club is the antithesis of the other social clubs in this town and is a great backdrop for some of the more spicy scenes in the story.
This is a wonderful addition to The Phoenix Club series, and I’m excited to see who will be the focus of the next story. There were hints of possible love connections in this story that I found particularly intriguing, and I’m hoping we’ll see more of these characters in future books. Though this is the second book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. However, if you did read the first book, you’ll be delighted to know that many of the characters in it are also in this one. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Zealous Quill Press, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
August 10, 2021
Series: The Phoenix Club #2
Publication Date: 8/24/21
Period: Regency London - 1815
Goodness Gracious Me! We met Constantine Westbrook, heir to the Duke of Evesham, in the prequel (Invitation), and the first book of the series (Improper). I don’t know about you, but I sure didn’t like him very well. He was cold, unyielding, passionless, uptight, and, as his brother Lucien says, has a ‘stick up his xxx’. How could a curmudgeon like that become the male romantic lead in a romance novel? I knew this author would turn things around and make us love him – and she surely did. You won’t be far into the book before you realize people aren’t always the face they present to the world – and – you’ll quickly come to love Con.
Sabrina Westbrook has been married to the cold and aloof Constantine Westbrook for almost two years now – and she’s had enough. He is cold and passionless, but part of the fault for their distant civility is her own. They were definitely NOT a love match and Sabrina wanted to call it off, but her parents wouldn’t allow her to do so and the duke wouldn’t hear of it either. It wasn’t that she had anything against Con, she just didn’t want to marry anyone. Sabrina has a debilitating anxiety disorder and couldn’t function in crowds or with strangers. How in the world was she going to manage a wedding night and marriage with a perfect stranger? Well, the bottom line is that she didn’t – things went downhill fast. Her anxiety caused Con to have anxiety and well … things just didn’t go well. So now, he visits twice a year and their joining is perfunctory and hurried.
Having had enough of the state of their marriage, Sabrina fights down her anxieties and makes the trip to London to demand her marital rights. She’ll demand he come to her bed every night until she is with child. She doesn’t care how horrid the act is, she’ll endure because she very much wants a child. She has no idea a woman can also enjoy ‘the act’ until a friend shares that information and gives her a book with instructions on how to enjoy it on her own. WOW! What a revelation. She has to wonder if maybe Con hasn’t shared the pleasure with her because he doesn’t really want her and is strictly performing a duty.
Con very much wants to improve the state of his marriage. He desires his wife and thinks she is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen, but he has no idea how to cope with her fears. When she cringes away from him, it wounds him. Since he has no idea how to make things better, he just tends to avoid her.
Con and Sabrina start, very tentatively, to see if they cannot heal their marriage. Neither understands the issues for the other – and they never talk about it. Well – they manage – in spite of the meddling of friends and family – and the end result is a delightful romance with a truly remarkable couple. It was a wonderful experience to see both of them grow, learn to trust, and learn to love.
I loved Con and Sabrina’s story and I cannot wait for the next book because it features Cassandra (Con and Lucien’s sister) and Lucien’s best friend, Ruark. I just know it is going to be a wonderful read because while Ruark is Lucien’s best friend, Lucien doesn’t think he is husband material for his sister. Uh Oh! The events in this book overlapped events in the first book – and events in the next book – – will overlap with events in this book.
As always, the book is well-written, well-plotted, and excellently delivered. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did. BTW – the prequel I mentioned above – is FREE on Amazon – so why not read it to see how the Phoenix Club came to be formed, the reasons behind it, and the group of friends who are involved.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 8/24/21
Period: Regency London - 1815
Goodness Gracious Me! We met Constantine Westbrook, heir to the Duke of Evesham, in the prequel (Invitation), and the first book of the series (Improper). I don’t know about you, but I sure didn’t like him very well. He was cold, unyielding, passionless, uptight, and, as his brother Lucien says, has a ‘stick up his xxx’. How could a curmudgeon like that become the male romantic lead in a romance novel? I knew this author would turn things around and make us love him – and she surely did. You won’t be far into the book before you realize people aren’t always the face they present to the world – and – you’ll quickly come to love Con.
Sabrina Westbrook has been married to the cold and aloof Constantine Westbrook for almost two years now – and she’s had enough. He is cold and passionless, but part of the fault for their distant civility is her own. They were definitely NOT a love match and Sabrina wanted to call it off, but her parents wouldn’t allow her to do so and the duke wouldn’t hear of it either. It wasn’t that she had anything against Con, she just didn’t want to marry anyone. Sabrina has a debilitating anxiety disorder and couldn’t function in crowds or with strangers. How in the world was she going to manage a wedding night and marriage with a perfect stranger? Well, the bottom line is that she didn’t – things went downhill fast. Her anxiety caused Con to have anxiety and well … things just didn’t go well. So now, he visits twice a year and their joining is perfunctory and hurried.
Having had enough of the state of their marriage, Sabrina fights down her anxieties and makes the trip to London to demand her marital rights. She’ll demand he come to her bed every night until she is with child. She doesn’t care how horrid the act is, she’ll endure because she very much wants a child. She has no idea a woman can also enjoy ‘the act’ until a friend shares that information and gives her a book with instructions on how to enjoy it on her own. WOW! What a revelation. She has to wonder if maybe Con hasn’t shared the pleasure with her because he doesn’t really want her and is strictly performing a duty.
Con very much wants to improve the state of his marriage. He desires his wife and thinks she is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen, but he has no idea how to cope with her fears. When she cringes away from him, it wounds him. Since he has no idea how to make things better, he just tends to avoid her.
Con and Sabrina start, very tentatively, to see if they cannot heal their marriage. Neither understands the issues for the other – and they never talk about it. Well – they manage – in spite of the meddling of friends and family – and the end result is a delightful romance with a truly remarkable couple. It was a wonderful experience to see both of them grow, learn to trust, and learn to love.
I loved Con and Sabrina’s story and I cannot wait for the next book because it features Cassandra (Con and Lucien’s sister) and Lucien’s best friend, Ruark. I just know it is going to be a wonderful read because while Ruark is Lucien’s best friend, Lucien doesn’t think he is husband material for his sister. Uh Oh! The events in this book overlapped events in the first book – and events in the next book – – will overlap with events in this book.
As always, the book is well-written, well-plotted, and excellently delivered. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did. BTW – the prequel I mentioned above – is FREE on Amazon – so why not read it to see how the Phoenix Club came to be formed, the reasons behind it, and the group of friends who are involved.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 8, 2021
Constantine and Sabrina Westbrook, Earl and Countess of Aldington, had an arranged marriage and continue as polite strangers. In two years of marriage, they've barely spoken or bedded, communicating infrequently through letters. Sabrina comes to town determined to push past her social anxiety and take her place in society and at her husband's side. Con is perplexed by this new version of his wife but perhaps they can begin again with the courtship they never had in the first place.
This is the second book in the Phoenix Club series (plus a novella). I haven't read the others and did wonder if I was missing out on information about the club and Con's family; however, the previous couples don't play a role and this story can stand alone.
I had mixed feelings at the beginning of the story. Sabrina and Con were uncomfortable with each other, and I certainly took that in as a reader. Their marriage was strained and sleeping together wasn't a magic switch that fixed their lives. I would have liked to know more about how Sabrina battled her anxiety because it felt like she just "decided" to get over it and did.
I really enjoyed the second half of the story, though. The couple began to reset their relationship and get to know one another. I also liked that the story was focused on their connection rather than external conflicts.
Tropes: Second Chance Romance
Steam Rating: 5
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #Impassioned #NetGalley
This is the second book in the Phoenix Club series (plus a novella). I haven't read the others and did wonder if I was missing out on information about the club and Con's family; however, the previous couples don't play a role and this story can stand alone.
I had mixed feelings at the beginning of the story. Sabrina and Con were uncomfortable with each other, and I certainly took that in as a reader. Their marriage was strained and sleeping together wasn't a magic switch that fixed their lives. I would have liked to know more about how Sabrina battled her anxiety because it felt like she just "decided" to get over it and did.
I really enjoyed the second half of the story, though. The couple began to reset their relationship and get to know one another. I also liked that the story was focused on their connection rather than external conflicts.
Tropes: Second Chance Romance
Steam Rating: 5
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #Impassioned #NetGalley
August 10, 2021
Despite being married for almost two years, Sabrina Westbrook, the Countess of Aldington, scarcely knows her husband at all and has rarely even spoken to him, much less shared his bed. This is made especially difficult since they live in separate houses. The Earl spends his time involved in politics with his seat in the House of Commons while Sabrina manages her social anxiety by spending time in her gardens at their country house.
Their marriage is polite, but the two times a year they visit one another in person are very awkward. Sabrina has had enough and is determined to make changes in both her life and her marriage.
Constantine Westbrook, Earl of Aldington and heir to the Duke of Evesham, knows what’s expected of him, so when his father arranged his marriage to a shy, but beautiful wallflower, he went along with it, thankful to be marrying the most beautiful woman he’d ever met. Unfortunately, he’s barely even seen her and is convinced she loathes him. Constantine is shocked when Sabrina arrives in London unannounced, especially since she seems very different from the woman he knows. She is full of demands and new expectations for him and if they’re to fulfill her desires, they must both learn a bit about love and seduction.
I’ll admit, the premise of this one had me nervous and I was very much afraid after our brief glimpse of Constantine in the previous book that we would encounter cheating or something very close to it here, but everything worked out satisfactorily on that front. Sabrina and Constantine really just needed to learn how to be open and communicate with each other and it was very satisfying to see them grow and develop that aspect of their relationship in addition to their intimate relationship. That made this book both steamy and endearingly sweet as both Constantine and Sabrina learned about each other and about themselves. Both characters grew into the people they wanted to be and truly were, as opposed to what they had been expected to be. Seeing them grow out of those narrow confines society had put them in and growing together was very sweet and they were easy to root for. I especially loved when Constantine and Sabrina began standing up for and defending one another to outsiders, presenting a united front and a real marriage at last. Constantine wound up being a very charming hero in his own unique way. His shyness and uncertainty were endearing, and I liked that he was willing to at least try to understand his wife. I do wish their open communication had come a bit sooner or that we’d gotten to enjoy it a bit longer and I wasn’t a huge fan of the false pretenses they both employed here. Nonetheless, I did enjoy this book quite a lot and I loved the fact that here we have a story where all the problems of the relationship aren’t just magically solved by going to bed, but rather by the MCs actually working to get to know one another.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Their marriage is polite, but the two times a year they visit one another in person are very awkward. Sabrina has had enough and is determined to make changes in both her life and her marriage.
Constantine Westbrook, Earl of Aldington and heir to the Duke of Evesham, knows what’s expected of him, so when his father arranged his marriage to a shy, but beautiful wallflower, he went along with it, thankful to be marrying the most beautiful woman he’d ever met. Unfortunately, he’s barely even seen her and is convinced she loathes him. Constantine is shocked when Sabrina arrives in London unannounced, especially since she seems very different from the woman he knows. She is full of demands and new expectations for him and if they’re to fulfill her desires, they must both learn a bit about love and seduction.
I’ll admit, the premise of this one had me nervous and I was very much afraid after our brief glimpse of Constantine in the previous book that we would encounter cheating or something very close to it here, but everything worked out satisfactorily on that front. Sabrina and Constantine really just needed to learn how to be open and communicate with each other and it was very satisfying to see them grow and develop that aspect of their relationship in addition to their intimate relationship. That made this book both steamy and endearingly sweet as both Constantine and Sabrina learned about each other and about themselves. Both characters grew into the people they wanted to be and truly were, as opposed to what they had been expected to be. Seeing them grow out of those narrow confines society had put them in and growing together was very sweet and they were easy to root for. I especially loved when Constantine and Sabrina began standing up for and defending one another to outsiders, presenting a united front and a real marriage at last. Constantine wound up being a very charming hero in his own unique way. His shyness and uncertainty were endearing, and I liked that he was willing to at least try to understand his wife. I do wish their open communication had come a bit sooner or that we’d gotten to enjoy it a bit longer and I wasn’t a huge fan of the false pretenses they both employed here. Nonetheless, I did enjoy this book quite a lot and I loved the fact that here we have a story where all the problems of the relationship aren’t just magically solved by going to bed, but rather by the MCs actually working to get to know one another.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
October 31, 2021
Impassioned features an amazing romance with a woman who wants more out of her loveless arranged marriage.
In the two years she has been married, Sabrina Westbrook has barely spoken to her husband. That would require them to actually be in the same house, something they rarely do. But Sabrina wants something more from her marriage which has her traveling to their home in London to make her husband a scandalous proposal. Constantine Westbrook, the Earl of Aldington, has always been charmed by his wife but their marriage got off to a less than stellar start. When his wife appears on his doorstep with a shocking proposition, Con doesn't know what to make of this new version of the woman he married.
As the heir to a dukedom, Con has been raised to always think of his duty first and to avoid anything scandalous. I have to admit, when we first meet Con's character I wasn't too sure about him. He's a bit of a bore who can't stand up to his overbearing father. Throughout the book, he definitely becomes more likeable and more of his own person rather than his father's shadow. Sabrina was an absolute delight from the start. She has crippling anxiety that she is determined to move past and she goes with the fake it until you make it method. I enjoyed watching her expand her horizons and how she was ultimately doing all of it because she wanted to and not for anyone else.
Con and Sabrina's marriage was arranged and due to a miscommunication, Con was under the impression she didn't want to marry him which led to them being pretty much estranged. In reality, Sabrina didn't want to marry anyone but she did actually like Con. When Sabrina first appears in London, it's incredibly apparent that these two don't know how to talk to each other. Ultimately they both get help from Con's younger brother and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Despite this being a romance between an already married couple, it's almost like a new romance due to the estrangement. Ultimately I was happy with the way the pair worked out their issues and where their relationship was by the end of the book.
Overall Impassioned was an excellent read and I will definitely be picking up the next book in the series, Intolerable, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
In the two years she has been married, Sabrina Westbrook has barely spoken to her husband. That would require them to actually be in the same house, something they rarely do. But Sabrina wants something more from her marriage which has her traveling to their home in London to make her husband a scandalous proposal. Constantine Westbrook, the Earl of Aldington, has always been charmed by his wife but their marriage got off to a less than stellar start. When his wife appears on his doorstep with a shocking proposition, Con doesn't know what to make of this new version of the woman he married.
As the heir to a dukedom, Con has been raised to always think of his duty first and to avoid anything scandalous. I have to admit, when we first meet Con's character I wasn't too sure about him. He's a bit of a bore who can't stand up to his overbearing father. Throughout the book, he definitely becomes more likeable and more of his own person rather than his father's shadow. Sabrina was an absolute delight from the start. She has crippling anxiety that she is determined to move past and she goes with the fake it until you make it method. I enjoyed watching her expand her horizons and how she was ultimately doing all of it because she wanted to and not for anyone else.
Con and Sabrina's marriage was arranged and due to a miscommunication, Con was under the impression she didn't want to marry him which led to them being pretty much estranged. In reality, Sabrina didn't want to marry anyone but she did actually like Con. When Sabrina first appears in London, it's incredibly apparent that these two don't know how to talk to each other. Ultimately they both get help from Con's younger brother and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Despite this being a romance between an already married couple, it's almost like a new romance due to the estrangement. Ultimately I was happy with the way the pair worked out their issues and where their relationship was by the end of the book.
Overall Impassioned was an excellent read and I will definitely be picking up the next book in the series, Intolerable, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
December 3, 2022
Nothing about the writing engages. The husband starting off almost cheating on his wife pisses me off. Supposedly they are both beautiful ppl. They couldn’t have TRIED in 2 years???
August 20, 2021
This is a fun, sexy book. Sabrina and Constantine have been married for two years, but living apart for most of those. Sabrina has always suffered from social anxiety, while Constantine has grown up with a dominating father who has shaped his life. After two years, Sabrina decides that she will approach her husband so that they can resume marital relations - for the sake of a child. Constantine also wants to make changes in his life, but he's not sure how to do it.
Sabrina and Constantine work through their issues with a little misguided help from their friends. What we most appreciated about this book was how the 3rd act conflict was handled: although there was a(n almost inevitable) fight, our MCs were able to take what they had learned about communication and work through their disagreement together. Also since there was the setup and potential for major angst through misunderstanding, it was great to have a couple work together to address their concerns.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Sabrina and Constantine work through their issues with a little misguided help from their friends. What we most appreciated about this book was how the 3rd act conflict was handled: although there was a(n almost inevitable) fight, our MCs were able to take what they had learned about communication and work through their disagreement together. Also since there was the setup and potential for major angst through misunderstanding, it was great to have a couple work together to address their concerns.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
December 11, 2021
Impassioned is book 2 in Darcy Burke’s “Phoenix Club” series and I enjoyed this story a lot. What do you get when two people are forced to marry, the male with a persona of cold-hearted & dispassionate, the female a walking ball of anxiety who is likely afraid of her own shadow? You get a passionless cold miscommunication mess and that is even before discussing the bedroom action … or lack there of as it is between our two MC in this story. Now these two need to come out of their safe zones and learn to be what the other needs.
This is a fun story about finally learning to be yourself and being strong enough to ask for what you need. It is also a very sexy story and watching these two learn how to please the other made for some hot as hell scenes!
Overall a sexy and fun opposite’s attract versus arranged marriage romance that makes for a fun read!
4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️| 5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
This is a fun story about finally learning to be yourself and being strong enough to ask for what you need. It is also a very sexy story and watching these two learn how to please the other made for some hot as hell scenes!
Overall a sexy and fun opposite’s attract versus arranged marriage romance that makes for a fun read!
4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️| 5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
August 26, 2021
1.5 stars. I know I’m in the minority. I hate to give such a low rating to a book that I think is written well, but I just couldn’t bring myself to like the book.
I hated the plot, it was just ridiculous. It was borderline of cheating. The H went seeking a courtesan (who turned out to be his wife) to teach him how to seduce his wife. I disliked that he was ok with masturbating in front of a stranger. And how could his wife agree to such deception. It wasn’t romantic at all.
The secondary characters encouraged infidelity in the name of the greater good. Sorry, this didn’t work for me.
I hated the plot, it was just ridiculous. It was borderline of cheating. The H went seeking a courtesan (who turned out to be his wife) to teach him how to seduce his wife. I disliked that he was ok with masturbating in front of a stranger. And how could his wife agree to such deception. It wasn’t romantic at all.
The secondary characters encouraged infidelity in the name of the greater good. Sorry, this didn’t work for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2022
4.5 stars
-2nd chance romance
-Marriage in crisis
-Baby making
-Grumpy hero
-Awesome friends and family
-sizzling chemistry between H and h.
-social anxiety representation.
-2nd chance romance
-Marriage in crisis
-Baby making
-Grumpy hero
-Awesome friends and family
-sizzling chemistry between H and h.
-social anxiety representation.
August 7, 2021
3 stars *may change
Despite being a communications major, I often find myself at a loss for words and unable to express my thoughts. There are times when the prospect of not speaking at all sounds far better than saying the wrong thing. That being said, these are the most incompetent idiots I've ever read about. Oh my God, how can your communication skills be this poor?
I think miscommunication trope is pretty alright. I mean, you'd probably have a hard time ever writing conflict without adding in two characters misunderstanding each other, but sometimes it's like, "Really?" Like, it's not possible to be this dumb. I won't believe it. The whole time I'm sitting here watching these buffoons in love do the craziest (and, wow, I mean craziest. why did they think any of that was a good idea?) things and then I'm hit by the splash of cold reality saying "This is a regency romance! Who cares about logic or even smart protagonists!" and I am automatically cured of my smartass-affliction.
I have no idea what else to say. Do people read these books critically? I just think they're fun and insane most of the time. The protagonists are decent enough people (we will not speak about the dreaded false pretenses) and the...romance...was fun enough. It's an alright book as far as regency romances go.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an advanced reader's copy
Despite being a communications major, I often find myself at a loss for words and unable to express my thoughts. There are times when the prospect of not speaking at all sounds far better than saying the wrong thing. That being said, these are the most incompetent idiots I've ever read about. Oh my God, how can your communication skills be this poor?
I think miscommunication trope is pretty alright. I mean, you'd probably have a hard time ever writing conflict without adding in two characters misunderstanding each other, but sometimes it's like, "Really?" Like, it's not possible to be this dumb. I won't believe it. The whole time I'm sitting here watching these buffoons in love do the craziest (and, wow, I mean craziest. why did they think any of that was a good idea?) things and then I'm hit by the splash of cold reality saying "This is a regency romance! Who cares about logic or even smart protagonists!" and I am automatically cured of my smartass-affliction.
I have no idea what else to say. Do people read these books critically? I just think they're fun and insane most of the time. The protagonists are decent enough people (we will not speak about the dreaded false pretenses) and the...romance...was fun enough. It's an alright book as far as regency romances go.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an advanced reader's copy
September 1, 2021
‘In nearly two years of marriage, Sabrina Westbrook has barely spoken to her husband and shared a bed even less. Both activities would require they actually live together. As it is, the Earl of Aldington attends to his seat in the House of Commons, while she and her crippling social anxiety tend to his country house and gardens.
Their arrangement is quite civilized, and their letters are painfully polite. Their twice-yearly visits are…awkward. But, if Sabrina can muster the necessary courage, all of that is about to change. Starting tonight.
Heir to a dukedom, Constantine Westbrook knows his duty: to country, to family, and to the shy, retiring wife whose beauty stole his breath the moment they met. Whose arousing, enticing body he’s never seen in the light of day. Or any light at all.
However, there’s something different about the woman who shows up in London unannounced. For the first time in their marriage, Sabrina has a request. No, a demand. But wanting and having are two different things. And to give Sabrina her heart’s desire, they’ll both need a few lessons in love…’
________________
Impassioned is the second book in The Phoenix Club series by Darcy Burke and is a historical romance.
When I initially saw that this book was going to be about Constantine and his unhappy marriage, I was really worried that it was going to feature cheating and that would have really ruined the book for me. So I was so happy to see that the plot took a different path. I really adored this story, both main characters were so lovely and I could sympathize with them so much. They really just needed to learn to communicate with one another, but prior misconceptions and anxiety keep them from doing so. They are both trying though.
I especially loved Sabrina’s character, she suffered from such anxiety and shyness but has made the choice to push herself to gain more confidence and comfort around others in order to accomplish the things she wants. It made it all the more believable that she suffers some stumbles along the way and reverts back to freezing up.
Constantine was so sweet too. I liked his character all the more because he wasn’t the bold and confident hero, which I found even more charming. He suffered from insecurity and uncertainty in his marriage, but just really wanted to improve his marriage. His gift was both thoughtful and kind and felt like a good symbol for the kind of man he is and his hopes for his relationship with Sabrina. It was also lovely to see an improvement in his relationship with his brother, Lucien, and for them to understand one another a little better
This has been my favorite from the series and I am looking forward to reading Cass and Ruark’s story next.
_____
I would like to thank the author, Darcy Burke, for sharing an eARC of her book, Impassioned with me. This is my honest review.
Their arrangement is quite civilized, and their letters are painfully polite. Their twice-yearly visits are…awkward. But, if Sabrina can muster the necessary courage, all of that is about to change. Starting tonight.
Heir to a dukedom, Constantine Westbrook knows his duty: to country, to family, and to the shy, retiring wife whose beauty stole his breath the moment they met. Whose arousing, enticing body he’s never seen in the light of day. Or any light at all.
However, there’s something different about the woman who shows up in London unannounced. For the first time in their marriage, Sabrina has a request. No, a demand. But wanting and having are two different things. And to give Sabrina her heart’s desire, they’ll both need a few lessons in love…’
________________
Impassioned is the second book in The Phoenix Club series by Darcy Burke and is a historical romance.
When I initially saw that this book was going to be about Constantine and his unhappy marriage, I was really worried that it was going to feature cheating and that would have really ruined the book for me. So I was so happy to see that the plot took a different path. I really adored this story, both main characters were so lovely and I could sympathize with them so much. They really just needed to learn to communicate with one another, but prior misconceptions and anxiety keep them from doing so. They are both trying though.
I especially loved Sabrina’s character, she suffered from such anxiety and shyness but has made the choice to push herself to gain more confidence and comfort around others in order to accomplish the things she wants. It made it all the more believable that she suffers some stumbles along the way and reverts back to freezing up.
Constantine was so sweet too. I liked his character all the more because he wasn’t the bold and confident hero, which I found even more charming. He suffered from insecurity and uncertainty in his marriage, but just really wanted to improve his marriage. His gift was both thoughtful and kind and felt like a good symbol for the kind of man he is and his hopes for his relationship with Sabrina. It was also lovely to see an improvement in his relationship with his brother, Lucien, and for them to understand one another a little better
This has been my favorite from the series and I am looking forward to reading Cass and Ruark’s story next.
_____
I would like to thank the author, Darcy Burke, for sharing an eARC of her book, Impassioned with me. This is my honest review.
August 4, 2021
I really enjoyed this! Earlier this year, I'd read Improper from the same series, and I wasn't impressed. When I noticed this was the same author, I'll admit I was a little wary. Thankfully, this ended up exceeding my expectations.
I think my favorite thing about this has to be the romance. I can't even describe why, I just loved it. At times, it was hard to read because both of our characters liked to sabotage themselves, but it definitely kept things entertaining. I also loved that our characters didn't just jump into bed together, they did get to know each other first.
I also really loved our characters. It was so nice to have two inexperienced/nervous characters. So often, we see the "rake" figure and the naive heroine in historical romance. I loved that Constantine definitely this stereotype, it kept this feeling fresh.
After thoroughly enjoying this one, I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for the rest of the books in this series! The plot for the next one already has me intrigued, so I can't wait to see what it brings.
Thanks to Netgalley and Darcy Burke for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
I think my favorite thing about this has to be the romance. I can't even describe why, I just loved it. At times, it was hard to read because both of our characters liked to sabotage themselves, but it definitely kept things entertaining. I also loved that our characters didn't just jump into bed together, they did get to know each other first.
I also really loved our characters. It was so nice to have two inexperienced/nervous characters. So often, we see the "rake" figure and the naive heroine in historical romance. I loved that Constantine definitely this stereotype, it kept this feeling fresh.
After thoroughly enjoying this one, I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for the rest of the books in this series! The plot for the next one already has me intrigued, so I can't wait to see what it brings.
Thanks to Netgalley and Darcy Burke for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
August 3, 2021
Impassioned, by Darcy Burke. I say that this book is another smash hit by this writer. I was excited and very thrilled to have read this book. This book is a page turner that just keeps getting better as you read your way to the end. I’m happy to say that was very pleased with everything that involved the creation of this story. Not only did the romance and the sensual heated moments between Con and Sabrina had my motor running, but the utter pure joy of following these two through out the book, as they found each other.
For me this was a fantastic story of love reborn. I was really happy that Lucien, Constantine’s brother and Evie Sabrina and Lucien’s best friend was there to ease some of the burden couple. Everyone of the characters brought forward entertainment that was non stop in the book. The romance and the many decadent love scenes between Con and Sabrina was to die for. The writer definitely didn’t disappoint her readers there.
My fellow readers, I recommend this book with two snaps and a twist. Until next… read on!
For me this was a fantastic story of love reborn. I was really happy that Lucien, Constantine’s brother and Evie Sabrina and Lucien’s best friend was there to ease some of the burden couple. Everyone of the characters brought forward entertainment that was non stop in the book. The romance and the many decadent love scenes between Con and Sabrina was to die for. The writer definitely didn’t disappoint her readers there.
My fellow readers, I recommend this book with two snaps and a twist. Until next… read on!
August 14, 2021
“ I am the Countess of Aldington, and I demand my marital rights.”
I love stories about people falling in love for the first time but there’s something extra exciting about two people with history between them having to find their way to being together. Watching them unravel the misunderstandings and mistakes of their past makes the romance so much more emotionally satisfying.
I loved Sabrina and Constantine. She had been forced into a season and marriage by her cruel parents who thought nothing of her crippling anxiety. He had been buried beneath duty and the expectations of his father. As a result, everything about their marriage had been forced and awkward. The question was, what were they prepared to do to remedy that.
I loved watching these two do what they should have done before they were wed. Get to know each other. Flirt, court, share their true feelings. Both had been plagued with the inability to communicate their desires with each other. As they learned to be themselves with each other, they discovered they no longer wanted to be the person their families expected but to just be themselves. In doing so, Sabrina emerged from being the wallflower countess and Constantine emerged from the duke’s shadow. Seeing them stand up to their parents and support each other in doing so made me love them all the more.
I loved seeing them truly discover each other. Their chemistry was unmistakable. And once they let their guards down and communicated, the intimacy between them was off the charts! I’m loving this Phoenix Club series. If you’re looking for a clever, witty, swoony read to wrap up your summer, this is it!
I love stories about people falling in love for the first time but there’s something extra exciting about two people with history between them having to find their way to being together. Watching them unravel the misunderstandings and mistakes of their past makes the romance so much more emotionally satisfying.
I loved Sabrina and Constantine. She had been forced into a season and marriage by her cruel parents who thought nothing of her crippling anxiety. He had been buried beneath duty and the expectations of his father. As a result, everything about their marriage had been forced and awkward. The question was, what were they prepared to do to remedy that.
I loved watching these two do what they should have done before they were wed. Get to know each other. Flirt, court, share their true feelings. Both had been plagued with the inability to communicate their desires with each other. As they learned to be themselves with each other, they discovered they no longer wanted to be the person their families expected but to just be themselves. In doing so, Sabrina emerged from being the wallflower countess and Constantine emerged from the duke’s shadow. Seeing them stand up to their parents and support each other in doing so made me love them all the more.
I loved seeing them truly discover each other. Their chemistry was unmistakable. And once they let their guards down and communicated, the intimacy between them was off the charts! I’m loving this Phoenix Club series. If you’re looking for a clever, witty, swoony read to wrap up your summer, this is it!
August 7, 2021
3.5/5 stars
I have thoughts - many thoughts. Will write a fleshed out review soon!
I have thoughts - many thoughts. Will write a fleshed out review soon!
January 2, 2023
Dnf and its so lacking i dont wanna talk about it
February 3, 2022
DNF at approximately 50%. I tried so hard to love this book :(. It had my favorite troupe of separated couples reuniting but so many things bothered me about the story.
Mild spoilers ahead:
One of the reasons the H/h had kept separate lives was because of h’s painfully shy ways and lack of confidence. THIS WAS (PAINFULLY) EMPHASISED BY THE AUTHOR OVER 50 TIMES YET THE h SUDDENLY DEMANDED FOR HER MARITAL RIGHTS WITHIN THE FIRST FEW PAGES. Her character just didn’t seem plausible.
And there’s more. A friend gives the h a book on sex and she suddenly has the sexual prowess of a concubine, even enough to impersonate one and entice her blindfolded husband. REALLY?? She was too shy to perform her marital duties leading to their estrangement, yet she SUDDENLY grows into a tantric goddess almost overnight? So so many more similar implausibilities bothered me althroughout that i quit halfway.
Definitely a disappointing first book of the year.
1 star for the troupe. Nothing else follows.
Mild spoilers ahead:
One of the reasons the H/h had kept separate lives was because of h’s painfully shy ways and lack of confidence. THIS WAS (PAINFULLY) EMPHASISED BY THE AUTHOR OVER 50 TIMES YET THE h SUDDENLY DEMANDED FOR HER MARITAL RIGHTS WITHIN THE FIRST FEW PAGES. Her character just didn’t seem plausible.
And there’s more. A friend gives the h a book on sex and she suddenly has the sexual prowess of a concubine, even enough to impersonate one and entice her blindfolded husband. REALLY?? She was too shy to perform her marital duties leading to their estrangement, yet she SUDDENLY grows into a tantric goddess almost overnight? So so many more similar implausibilities bothered me althroughout that i quit halfway.
Definitely a disappointing first book of the year.
1 star for the troupe. Nothing else follows.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2021
LOVED!!
This was a great story. Loved Constantine and Sabrina. What a great couple.
My favorite in this series so far!
I couldn't put it down and finished it in a few hours. So good.
This was a great story. Loved Constantine and Sabrina. What a great couple.
My favorite in this series so far!
I couldn't put it down and finished it in a few hours. So good.
December 10, 2021
The blurb and the beautiful cover gave me very much high hopes for the story, but it did not deliver.
August 19, 2021
In nearly two years of marriage, Sabrina Westbrook has barely spoken to her husband Constantine Westbrook, Earl of Aldington and shared a bed even less. Both activities would require they actually live together. As it is, Con attends to his seat in the House of Commons, while she and her crippling social anxiety tend to his country house and gardens. Their arrangement is quite civilized, and their letters are painfully polite. Their twice-yearly visits are…awkward. But, if Sabrina can muster the necessary courage, all of that is about to change. Starting tonight. Heir to a dukedom, Con knows his duty afterall his father has drummed it into him for years However, there’s something different about the woman who shows up in London unannounced. For the first time in their marriage, Sabrina has a request. No, a demand. But wanting and having are two different things. And to give Sabrina her heart’s desire, they’ll both need a few lessons in love.
This is the third book ( including the prequel) in the series & another very well written, engrossing read. Whilst it could be read on its own characters do overlap as do time frames. I didn’t like Con in the previous books so upright, arrogant & disdainful so I wondered if the author could redeem him & truthfully if I wanted him to be redeemed. The author wove her magic & very soon I was shown another side to Con & yes I began to like him & by the end I loved him. I liked the shy retiring Sabrina from the start & adored how she faced her anxieties & overcame them. I was quickly engrossed in this captivating book, the chemistry between the pair was combustible, the humour throughout the book had me laughing out loud & how the pair grew & change had me sighing. From thinking this would be my least favourite of the series it turned into my favourite so far, I’m now eagerly awaiting Cassie’s story & of course the lovely Lucien’s
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the third book ( including the prequel) in the series & another very well written, engrossing read. Whilst it could be read on its own characters do overlap as do time frames. I didn’t like Con in the previous books so upright, arrogant & disdainful so I wondered if the author could redeem him & truthfully if I wanted him to be redeemed. The author wove her magic & very soon I was shown another side to Con & yes I began to like him & by the end I loved him. I liked the shy retiring Sabrina from the start & adored how she faced her anxieties & overcame them. I was quickly engrossed in this captivating book, the chemistry between the pair was combustible, the humour throughout the book had me laughing out loud & how the pair grew & change had me sighing. From thinking this would be my least favourite of the series it turned into my favourite so far, I’m now eagerly awaiting Cassie’s story & of course the lovely Lucien’s
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 14, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
For two years, Sabrina Westbrook has been the Countess of Aldington, but she never wanted to marry, and her relationship with her husband, Constantine, is awkward to say the least. But Sabrina is adamant that it is all to change. She wants children, and she's willing to overcome her social anxiety to become the Countess, and future Duchess she needs to be, as well as submitting to her husband's attentions, if there's going to be any children. Constantine Westbrook fell head over heels with Sabrina when they met, but learning that she was forced into the marriage, and how cold she is when they're together, has made him see her less and less. But when Sabrina turns up in London, unannounced, demanding a baby, and so different from the woman he married, Constantine is blown away. Can they reconcile their differences, and fall in love, or is their marriage doomed?
After reading other books by Darcy, I was drawn to this one, and though I liked it, I wasn't completely blown away by it. The characters were okay, but I didn't really like Constantine, or how angry and cold he was. He blamed Sabrina for not wanting to marry, but never spoke to her about it, or about her life with her cruel parents. This book was definitely one where if they had just talked about their issues, everything would've been solved. Sabrina was so much better, and I liked how she was stepping out of her comfort zone, and becoming a new and improved version of herself, but not too different that she lost everything that made her Sabrina. The plot line definitely picked up after the half way point, and by then I was more invested in the plot line. I'm glad I have a copy of the next book, because Constantine's sister, Cassandra, definitely intrigues me.
For two years, Sabrina Westbrook has been the Countess of Aldington, but she never wanted to marry, and her relationship with her husband, Constantine, is awkward to say the least. But Sabrina is adamant that it is all to change. She wants children, and she's willing to overcome her social anxiety to become the Countess, and future Duchess she needs to be, as well as submitting to her husband's attentions, if there's going to be any children. Constantine Westbrook fell head over heels with Sabrina when they met, but learning that she was forced into the marriage, and how cold she is when they're together, has made him see her less and less. But when Sabrina turns up in London, unannounced, demanding a baby, and so different from the woman he married, Constantine is blown away. Can they reconcile their differences, and fall in love, or is their marriage doomed?
After reading other books by Darcy, I was drawn to this one, and though I liked it, I wasn't completely blown away by it. The characters were okay, but I didn't really like Constantine, or how angry and cold he was. He blamed Sabrina for not wanting to marry, but never spoke to her about it, or about her life with her cruel parents. This book was definitely one where if they had just talked about their issues, everything would've been solved. Sabrina was so much better, and I liked how she was stepping out of her comfort zone, and becoming a new and improved version of herself, but not too different that she lost everything that made her Sabrina. The plot line definitely picked up after the half way point, and by then I was more invested in the plot line. I'm glad I have a copy of the next book, because Constantine's sister, Cassandra, definitely intrigues me.
September 3, 2021
I gave this book 5 stars because I could relate to the main character’s anxiety as I think a lot of the world now can. Also, it was well written as usual and had me giggling at some parts. But I truly enjoyed Sabrina and Constantine’s journeys from estrangement to love, from timid to bold, from dispassionate to impassioned. Con was not the greatest character in previous books. But when I learned why he acts as he does it allowed me to find him likable and then I began rooting for him and for them both to figure out their relationship. I’ve loved reading this series so far and I’m really eager to find out what happens in Cassandra’s love story. I was given an arc of this book and chose to post my review.
August 26, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Very enjoyable and satisfying read from Darcy, I’m really loving this series and adore her style of writing.
The book is full of great characters, and the chemistry with the two leads is so wonderful to read.
Already married and trying to reconcile their differences is a new direction to see an arranged marriage from.
The challenges and interference from family and friends is both helpful and makes things more difficult for the couple.
This was a very busy and tense read in places, but worth it.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Very enjoyable and satisfying read from Darcy, I’m really loving this series and adore her style of writing.
The book is full of great characters, and the chemistry with the two leads is so wonderful to read.
Already married and trying to reconcile their differences is a new direction to see an arranged marriage from.
The challenges and interference from family and friends is both helpful and makes things more difficult for the couple.
This was a very busy and tense read in places, but worth it.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
August 17, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Zealous Quill Press for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
This book had so many of the things I like in an historical romance, but simply didn't deliver.
It is very hard for me to point out what exactly was wrong with it. The only way I can think of to explain it is that it feels as if a 16 year old had read many historical romances and tried her hand at writing for the time, by packing all of the cliches usually seen in marriage of convenience novels. The writing was so weird and the dialogue had me cringing.
Also, I didn't like the cover. The guy in it is weird and I couldn't stop thinking about Constantine (this name, too...) as that guy, which really set me off.
If this wasn't an ARC, I would have DNFed it.
Thank you to Zealous Quill Press for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
This book had so many of the things I like in an historical romance, but simply didn't deliver.
It is very hard for me to point out what exactly was wrong with it. The only way I can think of to explain it is that it feels as if a 16 year old had read many historical romances and tried her hand at writing for the time, by packing all of the cliches usually seen in marriage of convenience novels. The writing was so weird and the dialogue had me cringing.
Also, I didn't like the cover. The guy in it is weird and I couldn't stop thinking about Constantine (this name, too...) as that guy, which really set me off.
If this wasn't an ARC, I would have DNFed it.
October 16, 2021
Really loved this! does anyone have any more recommendations with this same trope? married couples who fall in love after marriage
August 31, 2025
4.0 stars
“How could she get to know a man who kept a very high wall around him and let no one inside?”
“Impassioned” is book 2 in the “Phoenix Club” series and the story of Constantine, Lord Aldington and his estranged wife, Sabrina Westbrook.
The last time we saw Constantine, he was fleeing the Phoenix Club after getting caught trying to hook up with a woman who was not his wife. Shocker indeed since Constantine was known as a strait-laced gentleman, not the rake or carousing type. Thankfully, Constantine came to his senses before anything happened. But what would lead a man who took such pride in his moral caliber to seek out the pleasure of another woman?
Arranged marriages are like a box of chocolates— you never know what you’re going to get. Turns out Constantine is estranged from his wife, Sabrina. He’s focused on his career and Sabrina, well… she’s a case of full blown anxiety. He’s chosen to live in London and she’s content to stay in the country until she’s not. Sabrina is ready to step out of her own self-imposed seclusion to get what she wants… a child. If her husband refuses to love her then the best he can do is give her a child. At least she can have someone to love.
When she had a child to love, none of that would matter. She wouldn’t be lonely anymore. “I’ve come to London to get with child, and I’m not leaving until I am.”
WTH?! Who is this person and where is my scaredy-cat wifey? Constantine is taken by Sabrina’s new sense of fortitude and brazenness. Not knowing exactly what to do with Sabrina and Sabrina attempting to overcome her anxieties which turn out to be many, this marriage is in need of some serious therapy.
After two years of “marriage” Sabrina is determined to turn the pages and begin a new chapter in her life. Her relationship with Constantine is non-existent and passionless. He comes off as dispassionate and frigid. And her social anxieties affect her relationship with her husband. Constantine feels unwanted and rejected. Their attempts at intimacy are dreadful to say the least and carried on more out of duty than passion. Ugh. Like stab me now.
What follows is a story of two people who need and love each other and are willing to do what is necessary to make their marriage work. Of course, discovering the pleasure they can enjoy makes it even better.
I liked this book way better than book #1 in the series. Constantine and Sabrina’s plight was realistically portrayed. Constantine was real. He was a man of standards and needed to realize his role as a husband and lover was key in making his wife happy and marriage successful. Sabrina on the other hand needed to learn to speak up for herself—her needs and wants were just as important and she didn’t need to allow her insecurities and anxieties dictate her happiness.
This was a delightful read even though I still feel like author Darcy Burke can do better.
Recommended
Winner, winner, pumpkin dinner!
Next in series…
Intolerable
“How could she get to know a man who kept a very high wall around him and let no one inside?”
“Impassioned” is book 2 in the “Phoenix Club” series and the story of Constantine, Lord Aldington and his estranged wife, Sabrina Westbrook.
The last time we saw Constantine, he was fleeing the Phoenix Club after getting caught trying to hook up with a woman who was not his wife. Shocker indeed since Constantine was known as a strait-laced gentleman, not the rake or carousing type. Thankfully, Constantine came to his senses before anything happened. But what would lead a man who took such pride in his moral caliber to seek out the pleasure of another woman?
Arranged marriages are like a box of chocolates— you never know what you’re going to get. Turns out Constantine is estranged from his wife, Sabrina. He’s focused on his career and Sabrina, well… she’s a case of full blown anxiety. He’s chosen to live in London and she’s content to stay in the country until she’s not. Sabrina is ready to step out of her own self-imposed seclusion to get what she wants… a child. If her husband refuses to love her then the best he can do is give her a child. At least she can have someone to love.
When she had a child to love, none of that would matter. She wouldn’t be lonely anymore. “I’ve come to London to get with child, and I’m not leaving until I am.”
WTH?! Who is this person and where is my scaredy-cat wifey? Constantine is taken by Sabrina’s new sense of fortitude and brazenness. Not knowing exactly what to do with Sabrina and Sabrina attempting to overcome her anxieties which turn out to be many, this marriage is in need of some serious therapy.
After two years of “marriage” Sabrina is determined to turn the pages and begin a new chapter in her life. Her relationship with Constantine is non-existent and passionless. He comes off as dispassionate and frigid. And her social anxieties affect her relationship with her husband. Constantine feels unwanted and rejected. Their attempts at intimacy are dreadful to say the least and carried on more out of duty than passion. Ugh. Like stab me now.
What follows is a story of two people who need and love each other and are willing to do what is necessary to make their marriage work. Of course, discovering the pleasure they can enjoy makes it even better.
I liked this book way better than book #1 in the series. Constantine and Sabrina’s plight was realistically portrayed. Constantine was real. He was a man of standards and needed to realize his role as a husband and lover was key in making his wife happy and marriage successful. Sabrina on the other hand needed to learn to speak up for herself—her needs and wants were just as important and she didn’t need to allow her insecurities and anxieties dictate her happiness.
This was a delightful read even though I still feel like author Darcy Burke can do better.
Recommended
Winner, winner, pumpkin dinner!
Next in series…
Intolerable
August 18, 2021
Earlier this summer I was lucky enough to receive the first book in the Phoenix Club series for a review, and I’m happy to say I also received this second one as an arc as well. I’m very happy to say that I loved this book much more than the first one.
The book starts with Sabrina arriving to London to demand because she wants to have a child. She and her husband, Constantine, had an arranged marriage, and didn’t have the time to even get to know each other before they were forced to marry. They have been estranged for two years from the beginning of their marriage before the beginning of the book.
I was immediately intrigued by the premise of this book, especially since it was stated that Sabrina suffers from social anxiety. That’s something that’s rare to see in a historical romance, and as someone who has a social anxiety disorder, it was very relatable to see Sabrina being anxious in big crowds especially. Someone in the book says to Sabrina that she seemed very sociable and not at all anxious after an event to which Sabrina states that that’s definitely not how she feels on the inside. I really felt that, because sometimes people don’t really see through the mask socially anxious people have to put on every day to face the world, even when they are struggling. Sabrina was determined to get what she wanted regardless of her anxiety and that was something I really admired about her, but I would have liked to see much more discussion between her and Con about her anxiety as that’s not something a person can just get over.
I really liked that the whole book was devoted to the two of them trying to build a relationship. The main characters both had struggles, which they had to overcome, to fully be in a healthy marriage. They both kind of sabotaged their relationship by their behaviour but that ultimately their willingness to know each other and themselves made this a great romance.
Even if you didn’t love the first book in this series, I would recommend the second book. I think the relationship and the characters are much better developed and this was a pleasure to read
The book starts with Sabrina arriving to London to demand because she wants to have a child. She and her husband, Constantine, had an arranged marriage, and didn’t have the time to even get to know each other before they were forced to marry. They have been estranged for two years from the beginning of their marriage before the beginning of the book.
I was immediately intrigued by the premise of this book, especially since it was stated that Sabrina suffers from social anxiety. That’s something that’s rare to see in a historical romance, and as someone who has a social anxiety disorder, it was very relatable to see Sabrina being anxious in big crowds especially. Someone in the book says to Sabrina that she seemed very sociable and not at all anxious after an event to which Sabrina states that that’s definitely not how she feels on the inside. I really felt that, because sometimes people don’t really see through the mask socially anxious people have to put on every day to face the world, even when they are struggling. Sabrina was determined to get what she wanted regardless of her anxiety and that was something I really admired about her, but I would have liked to see much more discussion between her and Con about her anxiety as that’s not something a person can just get over.
I really liked that the whole book was devoted to the two of them trying to build a relationship. The main characters both had struggles, which they had to overcome, to fully be in a healthy marriage. They both kind of sabotaged their relationship by their behaviour but that ultimately their willingness to know each other and themselves made this a great romance.
Even if you didn’t love the first book in this series, I would recommend the second book. I think the relationship and the characters are much better developed and this was a pleasure to read
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