Lyon Hearted

The Lyon's Den Connected World

by Jade Lee

Enter the world of the most notorious gambling den in London, where matches are made... unusually. Welcome to the world of THE LYON'S DEN: The Black Widow of Whitehall Connected World, where the underground of Regency London thrives... and loves.

ABACAS WOMAN

Li-Na lives in a black and white world, painting her feelings onto canvas by day and counting money in the Lyon’s Den at night. She’s found safety in the dark ink and the heavy clack of her abacas, but it is really a life?

MAN OF ART

Lord Daniel can’t draw worth a damn, but he can sell what he finds. And what he finds is Li-Na, a woman of such sublime talent that he will go to extraordinary measures to capture her art. When she refuses to leave her safe cocoon, he conspires with Mrs. Dove-Lyons to bring her to Cornwall where she will have everything she needs to paint. And if her art requires a more personal connection, then he willingly offers up himself as inspiration.

A SLOW SEDUCTION

Li-Na will not give up her soul to this powerful man, no matter how many castles he owns. She paints him as a tiger hunting in the jungle. She feels him watching her, protecting her, and tempting her until her canvas is filled with his eyes, his mouth, and his caress. But she cannot surrender the only part of her still alive. Unless being consumed by him is the only way to bring color back to her heart.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Romance

244 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 29, 2021

About the author

Librarian Note: Also writes under the pen name Kathy Lyons.

A USA Today Bestseller, JADE LEE has been scripting love stories since she first picked up a set of paper dolls. Ball gowns and rakish lords caught her attention early (thank you Georgette Heyer), and her fascination with the Regency began. An author of more than 40 romance novels and winner of dozens of industry awards, her latest series is RAKES AND ROGUES. The first one, 50 WAYS TO RUIN A RAKE, is an awesome tale of love and laughter.
And don’t forget Kathy Lyons.. She’s Jade’s paranormal half. Check out her new shifter series GRIZZLIES GONE WILD.
To find all the latest news on Jade or Kathy, visit them at www.jadeleeauthor.com or www.kathylyons.com! And find out where you can meet her at: http://jadeleeauthor.com/appearances

Reviews

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 3 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️1/2
💋💋

Enjoyable and entertaining read that keeps your attention mostly, although there are moments of the story slowing.
The characters are wonderful and the general plot is great .

It was lovely to see a chinese heroine in this series, and view the aristocracy from the point of view of someone who normally only sees from behind a veil, working in a gambling den.
Seeing her slowly gain her confidence and relax with Daniel was sweet.

A good read a lovely addition to the series

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

So refreshingly different!

LYON HEARTED whisked me away down the path least expected, making for a wonderfully engaging tale.
Topped with characters that have so much depth and a minefield of intrigue to explore, Li Na and Daniel instantly drew me in with their insecurities, struggles and compassion.
I really enjoyed piecing together snippets of their past histories as their connection and attraction slowly built and developed into intimacy.
Together they emitted such a sweet chemistry that bloomed and blossomed out of a deception that brought the pair delightfully into close quarters. Encouraging hearts to awaken as assumptions, steeped in suspicion and misperception, abounded from the obvious differences they projected in their characters (with regard to society's expectations) and misunderstood insights, into their perceived to be, odd natures. As family drama, country customs and budding desires sucked them both into allowing understanding to flourish into romance and unexpected love.
A well written tale that I enjoyed immensely!

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Li-Na paints by day and counts money in the Lyon’s Den at night. Lord Daniel buys & sells art. When he finds Li-Na painting in a London Park he realises she has a rare talent that he will go to extraordinary measures to capture her art. When she refuses to leave her safe cocoon, he conspires with Mrs. Dove-Lyons to bring her to Cornwall where she will have everything she needs to paint.
Li-Na will not give up her soul to this powerful man, no matter how many castles he owns.
Oh this was different as the heroine was Chinese & she worked in the Lyon's Den so her perspective of the aristocracy was very different. I found it to be an interesting read, the characters had depth & there was chemistry but it just simmered for me. I did enjoy how Daniel & Li-Na’s relationship grew & changed. Not my favourite in the series but a nice addition
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Lori D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another exciting tale featuring the infamous Lyon's Den, but this time, a little different take.

He'd seen her painting in the park. All he could think was that her drawing was amazing! He knew he could sell her art and rushed to approach her. Oh yes he bungled it good and scared her off! But he saw she rushed to the Lyon's Den.

She could not believe the man had approached her. But she was use to men around the Lyon's Den where she keeping up the receipts from the play. When called to Dove-Lyons office, she finds she is to go to an estate of a gentleman and help him straighten out his books for his estate. What?

A story of hidden secrets, a terrible past to overcome and a talent that needs to be realized... Along with a slow growing attraction. Good story!

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

For me this was not as entertaining as others in this series. It was o.k. but I felt it dragged a bit. 3☆

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Different from other books in this series, my heart went out to Li-Na as she struggles with the fall-out from the terrible abuse she suffered at the hands of people more powerful than herself. Trapped within her fear, she has only one outlet for her feelings and emotions, and that is through the tip of her brush as she loses herself in her paintings. As an art aficionado, Lord Daniel is always on the lookout for new and interesting artists and when he espies Li-Na painting in the park, he is mesmerized. However, breaking through the barriers that Li-Na has thrown up takes patience and a lot of planning. Daniel, with the help of Mrs. Dove-Lyons, arranges for Li-Na to take up a post as his bookkeeper at his crumbling castle, where he slowly breaks through her defenses. Unfortunately, there are others who cannot see Li-Na as a person, and it is up to Daniel to come to her defense. The novel is touching and one that brings out the best in both main characters, however, I did find it rather slow-moving in parts. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Chinese woman in the Lyons den

LiNa was rescued by Mrs Bessie Lyon after she was sold in the Lyons Den to repay a debt. LiNa used the abacus to keep the books and by day drew lines and squiggles to express her emotions. Daniel deals in art he has been all over the world selling and buying art and making artist famous! LiNa no last name would never sell her art as it would be the deepest betrayal! She did Not see the beauty just her thoughts and emotions on pages to express her hurt pain and betrayal since coming to London!
It is not clear as in other Lyons den stories what the terms are between Daniel and Bessie Lyon! Mrs Lyon sends her to Cornwall without disclosing who or what was behind the request. LiNa needs a rest and change of scenery never dreaming she would see Daniel! LiNa sees her request as a betrayal and it takes literally months for LiNa to see herself as anything but a servant! Thus is a genuine love story with many moving parts from LiNa interactions with Daniel staff, the villagers and even his family! LiNa saw Daniel as a tiger because of course all men want something without giving anything in return! LiNa saves his life then things really change!
Love does win but they fight tooth and nail for their happiness! Even Bessie Lyon helps by setting foot in a church and not catching aflame!
Best one yet!!!

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lyon Hearted by Jade Lee is the newest entry into the multiple-author phenomena, the Lyon's Den Connected World. The Lyon's Den is a gaming hell and so much more, in the heart of London during the Regency period. Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon runs it with an iron hand, and has been come known as a matchmaker extraordinaire, especially for impossible matches. Right now she is concerned with her cage lady, a Chinese woman known as the Abacus Lady. She sits, night after night, with her veil over her face, doling and raking in cash, never speaking above a whisper. Now a man has come to her, showing interest in Li-Na, an art dealer, and a good man. Bessie bullies Le-Na into going to Cornwall to help someone with his books, as that is what she does best. That, and paint. Le-Na fights back, but no one bests Bessie Dove-Lyon so off she goes to Cornwall. A woman, the housekeeper, meets her at the station. Not the most pleasant woman in the world, but she delivers Li-Na safely enough, to the falling-down castle where she is meant to spend her time in Cornwall. Lord Daniel comes in the middle of the night. She hears him snore. Only then can she sleep. In the morning she discovers the man for whom she will work, and shat he wants from her.

This is a slow seduction, if one at all. What Daniel really wants is for Li-Na to paint and let him sell her paintings. That is what he does: he's an art dealer. He is also set to become the guardian for his young nephew, Stephan, his brother's child, who is an earl, his brother having died recently. Neither of these things is going well right now. Daniel recognizes that Li-Na must feel safe in order to paint, so he sets about making her feel safe. Sadly, he is called to London to deal with Stephan's maternal grandfather, who is trying to become Stefan's guardian in order to steal his estate from him. When he returns he hears all kinds of gossip about Li-Na. When he investigates, he comes to understand she has been involving herself in the community, mostly to prove his nephew's steward has been robbing him blind. When the case of the grandfather's guardianship comes to court, all kind of witnesses are called that present half-truths and lies into evidence. The only one who can help is Li-Na. Will she?

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Lyon Hearted by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #lyonhearted #jadelee

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was quite different in some ways from the others in this series. The hero, Daniel, is not in need of or looking for a wife. He is an art dealer, of sorts. Li-Na has not had an easy life to say the least. She was a slave before coming to the Lyon’s Den. She loves to paint and creates some unusual, but beautiful pieces. The agreement between Daniel and Mrs. Dove-Lyon is not for marriage, but to give her an opportunity to go out into the world and enjoy her freedom and her passion.

I like this interesting story. The characters are written so that you come to know them as the story unfolds. It easy to see the passion Li-Na has for her, and the deeply personal feelings it portrays. Daniel is a wonderful hero for Li-Na and his family. He is kind and patient with her. Their romance builds slowly. He is a solid counsel for his nephew who has become an earl at a very young age. There is a precarious situation with guardianship, but Prinny, who is Daniel’s friend and fellow art lover, has a splendid solution. Good story. I enjoyed and recommend it.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jade Lee has written another incredible story with Lyon Hearted! Her characters have a depth of emotion and they draw you into the story. I am an admirer of Mrs. Lee's writing but she has outdone herself with this book. Lyon Hearted is not your typical Lyon's Den Series novel. It is the story of Li-Na, a young, Chinese lady who works in the Lyon's Den as bookkeeper and accountant, That is until Lord Daniel, am art dealer, sees her paint and is desperate to sell her paintings for her. Daniel goes to Mrs. Dove-Lyon and together they find a way to get Li-Na out in the country to enjoy life. In this book you get to know inside the mind of Li-Na with all of her fears, obedience, wit, and determination. I loved this story. I loved that the characters didn't know they were broken until they were reflected on the other on.

Thanl you Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book for my honest opinion.

[Linda J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite series - all stand alone - main theme is Mrs. Dove-Lyon who owns a gambling den and is also a matchmaker. She has a part in this story too which I enjoyed.

Our h is Chinese and life has been far from easy for her. You get a glimpse of her culture and how it formed her. The H is a second son who is now helping his 12 year old nephew learn to be an Earl. Each helps the other (H/h) in seeing things through a different lens.

No real villains, just lusty men. Lovemaking/foreplay outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 described once each.

Enjoyable ending, but as with most stories I read, I wanted an epilogue. Their future was not going to be easy and I wanted to know how they handled it. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and a tad of spice. (ljb)

[Madeline · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, this book asks the reader to do too much charitable reading, but it may just about reward that charity. I'm still not sure, lol. The heroine has a way of thinking and feeling through painting - the practice as well as the products - which made for interesting reading. And the part of the book where Li-Na is working to get to know Cornish villagers so she can figure out how much Daniel's been cheated is pretty good! This is another one that would benefit from taking itself more seriously and giving more time to the extra bits.

This is also the mildest possible version of getting tricked into spending time with someone. It's like "what if we did a bunch of Du Maurier stuff, but made it cheerful?"

[Rebekah Carulli Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

utterly charming

Daniel is a second son who has always been overshadowed by his older brother the Earl. When his brother dies he is thrust into the role of acting Earl for his nephew.
Li-Na is a Chinese immigrant who is a former slave. She is won in a card game by none other than Bessie Dove-Lyon.
What happens when the two meet is a story of love that transcends race and position in society. Will the princess regent achieve his aim of making her his mistress or will Daniel make her his wife?
You will absolutely love the Lyon’s Den series. Each can be read alone or binged all at once. The authoresses who have collaborated on this series are all extremely talented and the stories are fresh and riveting.

[Mary Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I liked this story. We see the Regency from Li Na's point of view. She's had a very tragic life until she ends up as the bookkepper at Bessie Lyon's gambling den. Some of these ideas might be triggers.
Our hero, Daniel is fascinated by her art not realises that she uses it therapy.

The passion is very well written and it's great that there's a happier ending not just for the couple but for his nephew. Some of the travelling from cornwall to London seemed a bit quick but that's a minor point!

I think you'll like this unusual story.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always like going back to the gambling den and read the stories about different couples who meet there. Well this read is definitely different. Li-na is a painter by day and counts money for the den at night. Lord Daniel can't win at cards for anything, but he knows how to buy things and he wants her paintings. When he works with goes to Mrs. Dove-Lyons for help, he manages to get her to his castle in cromwall. Interesting times for this couple. HEA. I just reviewed Lyon Hearted by Jade Lee. #LyonHearted #NetGalley

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed all of the books about the Lyon's Den. This one was a little different but as the lady was the Abacus lady from the den itself. She has always been there since she first arrived five years ago but now Bessie has convinced her to go do some work for Lord Daniel in the country. He is interested in her art work which she will not share. This story has him learning to understand Li Na. How they learned to love each other.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Li-Na hides herself away by working at the Lyon’s Den at night and painting during the day. When she is discovered by Lord Daniel, she has no interest in selling her work. Lord Daniel won’t give up that easy. Fast-paced historical read with loads of drama, steam and emotion. Great characters with lots of depth and an entertaining story. I was hooked from beginning to end. I loved it!

[Cindy Woltman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intriguing story!

So very different from the Lyon’s Den series yet an intriguing story. Li Na’s story is filled fear, isolation and loneliness until Mrs. Dove Lyon forces her to see a new world. In Daniel she finds acceptance and love. He finds just what he needs. Be prepared to be drawn in by this story.

[Layne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Abacus Lady

Always in dark clothing with a veil over her face, Lions takes care of the money in the Lyons Den No one sees her face in the Den and no o e knows she paints except Mrs d overly on until Lord Daniel sees her in Hyde Park. He buys art and decides he wants to see her painting up close She's not having any part of that and the games begin.

[Cecilia Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set during the Regency Era, and starting in London, Li-Na is a Chinese immigrant who works at the Lyon’s Den as an accountant.
Lord Daniel surprises Li-Na while she’s painting; the encounter sparking an attraction between them.
The story moves to Cornwall where Li-Na and Daniel steam up their relationship.
Lee’s description of her characters make them human and relatable.

[Candace · Rating 1 out of 5]

Li-Na and Daniel. This book was torture to get through. It drug on sooooooo long. He saw her painting in the park and wanted to sell her work. She declined and he manages to get her sent to his crumbling castle under the guise of bookkeeping in hopes to get her to sell her artwork. I can't believe Jade Lee wrote this. This is not like her to have something so boring.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an fascinating story with intriguing characters. The h is very different in her beliefs and how she sees people. The H is caring and noble. She paints, he procurs art and sells it, but she won't even let him see her paintings. It's a battle of wills, and he's willing to trick her to get his way.

[Pamela Monroe · Rating 2 out of 5]

I couldn't get past 7℅

I really don't know what to say except I am glad I have unlimited and paid nothing. If I ever hear someone saying they feel squiddly I think I will scream

[SynergyQuest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great Lyons Romance

I love this Lyons series. The great part is that each book is written by a different author. I love being introduced to new authors and reading romances from familiar ones too. It’s a real treat.

[Lisa Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow!

This novel was so different from a typical historical romance , it lacked glamour but a truthfulness of the era the story was set around. I loved the author’s exploration of love between persons who were considered’different’

[John Boles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lyon Hearted

This story was certainly a different twist on the usual theme of this series, but I enjoyed it as much or than the others. I would gladly recommend this book to anyone.

[Carol · Rating 2 out of 5]

Average

I found this difficult to get into, and ended up skimming over pages.
I should say there’s nothing wrong with what I read, clearly this book just isn’t for me.
Try it for yourself & see.

[AmazingJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Wonderful, Entertaining & Romantic Story.

This Story was Absolutely Wonderful with a touch of angst.

Li-Ma & Daniel were wonderful characters.

I am looking forward to reading "The Talons of a Lyon" by Jude Knight in the next book in this series.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

By night, Li-Na works at the Lyon's Den. Known as the Abacus Woman, she sits in a cage disguised with a veil. In her free time she paints. Lord Daniel deals in acquiring and selling art. Discovering Li-Na painting in Hyde Park is an exciting find, but she refuses to have anything to do with him. Following her to the Lyon's Den, Daniel will find a way, with Mrs. Dove-Lyon's help, to break Li-An out of her cage. All it will take is convincing her to travel to Cornwall, where her adventure will begin. A very different take on the magic of Mrs. Dove-Lyon. The widow who is always right.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Marjorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good love story

This was a good book. Li -Na and Daniel had a lot of obstacles to overcome. We think gasping is bad now it is nothing compared to the old days.