Black Widow

Spellbound Regency #2

by Lucy Leroux

He wants to bring her to justice, but the secrets she holds may be the end of him.

Shattered by the death of his cousin, Gideon Wells, the Earl of Flint, is determined to prove his cousin’s widow is the one responsible. When Amelia Montgomery finally returns to town on the arm of her new lover, Gideon vows to bring her to justice. But getting close to her sparks a hunger that he can’t ignore. As he begins to uncover the truth about Amelia, he encounters an evil more sinister than he ever imagined. Can he destroy the threat or will he suffer the same fate as his cousin?


Read The Complete Series
Book 0 - The Hex, A Spellbound Regency Short - Available Now
Book 1 - Cursed - A Readers' Favorite 5 star read!
Book 2 - Black Widow - A Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner!
Book 3 - Haunted - Coming Soon

Genres: Suspense, Fantasy, Romance, Historical Romance, Paranormal, Magic

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2017

About the author

A 7-time Readers' Favorite Medal Winner. USA Today Bestselling Author. Mom to a half-feral princess. WOC. Former scientist. Recovering geek.

Lucy Leroux is the steamy pen name for author L.B. Gilbert. Ten years ago Lucy moved to France for a one-year research contract. Six months later she was living with a handsome Frenchman and is now married with an adorable half-french 5yo who won't go to bed on time.

When her last contract ended Lucy turned to writing. Frustrated by a particularly bad romance novel she decided to write her own. Her family lives in Southern California.

Lucy loves all genres of romance and intends to write as many of them as possible. To date she has published twenty novels and novellas. These includes paranormal, urban fantasy, gothic regency, and contemporary romances with more on the way.

Follow her on twitter @lucythenovelist or http://www.facebook.com/lucythenovelist or visit www.authorlucyleroux.com/newsletter for special offers and free reads.

*For fans of paranormal romance and adventure check out the author's award-winning Elementals series under her maiden name L.B. Gilbert.

Reviews

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a unique series by Lucy Leroux. I would describe it at a historical romance with a touch of horror.

The first book involved a demon possessing the Hero. Crazy enough, I was fascinated by that demon having it's own fascination with the heroine in the first book. I thought maybe this was the demon moving on to a new possession. It's not, but I'll leave it at that and let you learn on your own. You don't have to read the first book before this one, it can stand on its own.

Gideon is pure alpha and once he realizes Amelia isn't the enemy, he gives in to his desire for her and protects her at all costs. Amelia is a smart, independent heroine that I liked very much. I loved these two together.

I didn't think the "danger" was as cool as the demon in the first book, but it's still a very unique storyline that I enjoyed and recommend. I hope the author brings us more in the series. ARC provided by author.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review For: 'Black Widow' by Lucy Leroux 'Black Widow' by Lucy Leroux is Book Two in The "A Spellbound Regency Novel" series. This is the story of Amelia Montgomery and Gideon Wells, Earl of Flint. I have read the previous book (and loved it!) but this is easily a standalone book.Amelia was the Ward of Sir Clarence who had a son named Martin and also a nephew named Gideon. Martin and Gideon were close growing up and Gideon had met Amelia too. Martin talked about Amelia allot also. But later on when Gideon was away traveling and helping the war office Martin married Amelia. Martin and Amelia left also to travel after being married and did not return until sometime later. The book opens up with Amelia finding Martin, her husband dead with blood everywhere. The town blames her and Lord Worthing for his death. Lord Worthing was a close friend of Martin and Amelia. But the town only seems to know and care that Amelia and Lord Worthing are friends still a year later and that he is her lover. Gideon who no longer works for the War Office after inheriting a title now has returned home to see about his new estate and to make sure Amelia pays for the death of Martin, his cousin. But Gideon is surprised by his quick desire for Amelia but he has his mind set on bring her to justice. But things aren't always what them seem and it appears that Amelia is more the victim than being guilty. I am so In Love with Ms. Leroux writing! I love everything she writes for sure and this book was just as wonderful as the other books I have read by her!Loved it! "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H... https://twitter.com/soapsrus68 https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR... http://booklikes.com/bloghttps://roma... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
 
 

[Carvanz · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an amazing, unusual read by one of my favorite authors! Once I started this book I didn’t want to stop. Despite an awesome epilogue I still wanted more of this couple!

Amelia’s husband Martin died in a tragic accident that might not have been an accident at all. He was her everything but most importantly, he was her friend. When her year of mourning is officially over she reenters society and is reacquainted with her childhood friend Gideon. Immediately the affection she has held for him for so many years is reignited.

Gideon is certain that Amelia had something to do with her husband’s death. He sets out to find the answers to the questions surrounding the mystery but almost immediately is swallowed up in the desire he has felt for her since she was a young miss. There is more going on here than what is seen on the surface and if they can’t find a solution both of their lives might be at risk.

I enjoyed the heck out of this book! There was so much more to it than a simple historical romance. I don’t want to give too much away, but I will say I was thrilled at the imagination this author put forth into this tale. If you like historical romances with awesome alpha heroes, strong heroines who are overcoming life’s struggles, steamy moments between the two and incredible secondary characters, this book is for you. Especially if you are looking for something a little different.

My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read.

Dual POV
Safe - Gideon and Amelia were never a couple previously and she was very young the last time he saw her.
Possible triggers Amelia was molested, no rape, by her guardian

[Space Cowgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sticks and Stones💔

Murder💀, Lies, Deceit, Intrigue, and some Romance in Regency England.
Gideon Wells🐺🍆⛲, the new Earl of Flint, has come back from Europe and working as a spy for The 👑crown. He comes to take over the faltering Earldom he just inherited, and to investigate the sudden suspicious death of his cousin, Martin, who he thinks was murdered by his wife, Amelia💃💔! Martin was pushed or fell down the stairs in their new home.

Now, a year after Martin's death, Amelia💃💔 is left with the attentions of Martin's best friend, the Viscount Worthing. Her reputation is suspect, yet she is invited to all the ton functions.

Gideon🐺🍆⛲ has always admired her, while at The same time he investigates Amelia💃💋 and The Viscount, believing them complicit in Martin's death. As time goes by, he finds himself in a hate👺/ love💕 relationship with her.

ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.

This is a wonderfully written ADULT Romance with murders💀, intrigue, plenty of lies and deceit, and a surprise suspect!
The editing is professionally done, I found no spelling or usage mistakes to speak of, which helped to make the book a real pleasure to read.

[Jo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Amelia and Gideon are related by marriage and meet again as adults when Amelia is newly widowed. She's hiding something and Gideon thinks she had something to do with the death of her husband. But there's something more sinister at play. The spooky side to this novel took a long time to come to the fore and the hints were too subtle to actually register. I was slightly disappointed that it took so long to get going as I was expecting more supernatural elements. In the end it felt like it was just another Regency set novel.

[Sonia N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book by the fabulous Lucy Leroux!!! For an honest review.
Thank you once again for this book. I enjoyed it so much. This truly is a suspenseful Wicked Romance**

The newly widowed Mrs. Amelia Montgomery, her husband was her beloved Martin. He is cousin to the new and extremely handsome Earl! Gideon and Amelia knew each other, they all grew up together. But, Gideon assumes that she had something to do with his murder.

Amelia is an heiress to a working class gentleman, but the ton looked down upon earned money!? Anyway, this story line has mystery, suspense, and it was witty, with hot love scenes mixed in!

Amelia is a beautiful and strong woman. Gideon is handsome and an alpha male all the way. They have always had an attraction to each other. So when they meet Gideon's feelings for Amelia become protective.

I enjoyed the characters in the story and the twists and turns. This story has passion, intrigue and hot chemistry. It also made me smile and laugh, because of Amelia and Gideon's reaction to her. It is another 5 star book and I loved it and I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and everyone.

[Jamie Bee · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good at First, Then Goes Off the Rails

I am not quite sure what to write for this review. I was surprised by this book, but not in a good way. When I read the book description, I just read the summary, not the quotes from other reviewers within the blurb; I never read those or other reviews before I read a book. From the couple paragraph description, I was expecting a somewhat standard historical romance. And the first part of the book and delivered on that, along with a little romantic suspense—which I also enjoy. The heroine has a variety of secrets that neither we nor the hero is privy to for a while. We learn from the first chapter that the heroine is not a murderer, as first suspected by the hero. I actually enjoyed watching their initial dance, shall we say, as they became reacquainted with each other and he tried to figure out if she had anything to do with her husband's death.

But then it got weird. And, frankly, I didn't see it coming. I read a variety of books, so I don't have anything necessarily against weird so long as I am prepared for it. I certainly did not expect the book to go the way it did in the last roughly 40%. Actually, I kept thinking it would straighten back out into a standard story instead of going into a paranormal aspect that wasn't appropriately foreshadowed and therefore felt entirely out of place. It almost felt like a deus ex machina move, which I never like in a story as it feels like a cop-out. I did enjoy watching the push-me, pull-you relationship of the hero and heroine at first, and the heroine’s naivete was surprising (in an intriguing way) in a story about a widow (and I liked watching the hero’s education of her). I do feel that there were too many intimate scenes after a certain point in the story; they did detract from the rest of the plot because, at times, it felt like the plot existed as something to happen between the intimate moments so it wouldn't be just all that. So, I actually enjoyed the first part of the book, but the second half fell apart for me once it appeared as though the paranormal aspect was meant to be real.

I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.

Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com

[Gypsy Madden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read both Cursed (loved it!) and The Hex (I think I gave it a 3), so I did know what to expect with this book in terms of style and sex content. Though compared to Cursed, I was expecting this to have a whole lot more paranormal from the start. So I was rather disappointed by 50% that there had only been about 3 appearances by the paranormal monster (sorry, I prefer my paranormal regency romances to be predominantly paranormal with a regency setting for flavor and not the other way around). This was first and foremost a Regency Romance, and spent most of the time focusing on social circles and socializing with the ton at the many balls. The paranormal aspect does pick up in the second half of the book. Amelia probably is too damsel in distress for my tastes (not to mention there’s not that much to her personality beyond being sweet and innocent), though she does feel authentic to the time period. Gideon, while gorgeous, and a hunk of a typical book boyfriend, feels rather brutish. He was always grabbing the heroine and man-handling her, and for the abusive background Amelia has, you’d expect her to react negatively to it. I know it’s a bit spoilery, but this does spend quite a bit of time on sexual child abuse (not the act itself, but unwanted touching) -which should be mentioned since it’s a trigger for quite a few people. Also toward the ¾ point it started to feel like the sex scenes were taking over rather than focusing on the plot. I did love the beginning of the book with the hero suspecting the heroine of murder, and the interplay between the two as they became reacquainted with him trying to figure out all of her secrets. I also loved the mystery (though I had a completely different suspect in mind). And I did pick this up for the paranormal (which I personally thought there wasn’t enough of in the first half). And I loved seeing the children from Cursed starring in this, though sad that we sacrificed Martin before the book even got started, as well as the mentions of Isobel and Matteo, the starring characters from Cursed. It’s nice to see the books tying together. I also love how the author really brings to life the Regency setting with all of the lavish balls and mansions, and the clothes, and the gothic spooky atmosphere.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Black Widow, by Lucy Leroux is a difficult book for me to judge.  It starts out as a historical romance with the hero sadly misjudging the heroine but then turns into a paranormal, gothic romantic drama and that's when the plot got a little weak.

Gideon, the hero, believes that his beloved cousin was killed by his widow, Amelia.  Gideon is obviously still grieving for his cousin and is incredibly bitter.  I found Gideon very judgemental.  While he hadn't seen Amelia for years, he had known her as a child yet he just believed she was a murderer before even confronting her about it.  Even when he doubted the story, he still equivocated about her; not very romantic.

Amelia, the heroine, had suffered through a traumatic childhood and had found some peace with her marriage to her best friend.  Her husband's death devastated her both personally and socially.  She had always been enthralled by Gideon, so she's happy to see him at first; not realizing that he's there to see her hang for murder.  I liked her character, but I felt she was weak willed at times.

The plot continues on as a suspense, but then a paranormal aspect enters the book about 1/3 of the way through.  While I like gothic romances, this was disturbing in some places, yet unsatisfying in others.  I didn't hate the book, in fact I do like it; I just wanted more to the plot and more romantic conviction from the hero.  I have to give it 3 1/2 stars.  I will keep reading this series though because I do like Ms Leroux's writing.

This book does contain a little language and some sex.  I am including a trigger warning for the sexual abuse, though no rape, of a young girl.

I received an ARC of the book from Booksprout in exchange for my unbiased review.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the surface, this story seems so much more straightforward than the book before it, but it’s still nothing like I was expecting. It starts, quite simply, in the way of several historical romances I’ve read, with one of the leading characters looking for vengeance against the other leading character. Their lives spin a little out of control from there and we’re taken on the thrilling ride with them. Nothing is quite what it appears to be in either Amelia or Gideon’s lives. The paranormal in this book felt very subtle to me and stayed mostly in the background until quite near the end. The mystery in this story wasn’t as big a surprise to me as in the previous book, but that could simply be because I know about these things. I realize that’s the most wishy-washy statement imaginable, but I can’t think of a better way to say it without giving away all the secrets. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I was pulled into Amelia and Gideon’s world right from the start. I badly wanted to know what it was going to take to solve their situation and I couldn’t read fast enough to find out.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story focuses on Amelia Montgomery and Gideon Wells, Earl of Flint.

Amelia finds her husband, Martin, dead with blood all over. Martin had been pushed or fell down the stairs of their home. Rather than accepting it as an accident, which it may not have been, everyone blames Amelia.

Gideon, who had worked in the War Office, now returns home to take over his inheritance of a new title and to look into his cousin, Martin’s, death, believing, like everyone else, that he was murdered by Amelia. He wants to make sure she is punished for her crime! But Gideon had been acquainted with Amelia from childhood, and their previous affection for each other was still between them. Gideon feels something else is going on that they are not aware of. Is she truly a Black Widow? Or are both of them in inexplicable danger?

This was different than other books I’ve read in this genre, but I liked it. The mystery gave it the touch of suspense that keeps things interesting. Amelia is strong and intelligent and I enjoyed her as a main character. Can she and Gideon find out what really happened to Martin? Grab your copy and see if you can figure out what is going on!

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gideon Wells, Earl of Flint and undercover agent, was facing a situation that was challenging his peace of mind and his heart. Attracted to Amelia Montgomery, his dear late cousin widow, he had to discover the truth behind the death of Martin, her husband. Amelia, a strong, smart and decided woman, had many secrets in her lot and she would keep them well hidden and close to her heart. When the evil force that haunted her was threatening more than what she could bore, she knew something must be done to keep safe those she loved. Gideon was decided to make her his and would not fail to protect her against the evil forces lurking in the dark. Way to keep me in suspense, intrigued all the time and avidly reading. The descriptions and details were very good. I was immersed in the story and few times I looked over my shoulder to make sure there was nothing behind. Action, suspense, mystery, magic, hot and intense moments, scary scenes and exciting characters. Love these regency stories with evil dark forces and passion. As I had said before, a buffet for me.

[Sophie Koufes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Description: Black Widow is Book Two in the A Spellbound Regency Novel
Can be easily read as a standalone.
Amelia Montgomery - Ward of Sir Carence
Gideon Well's - Earl of Flint. Nephew of Sir Clarence
Sir Clarence's son Martin & Amelia were married until Martin was murdered.
Lord Worthing - Close friends with Amelia & Martin
A regency historical novel that mixes in a bit of paranormal & mystery. I love the writing style of this author as it is unrivaled. Main characters are well seasoned along with a perfect blend of supporting characters that enhance the tale. A saga brimming with romance & suspense intertwined into a passionate read. A captivating plot that keeps the pages turning with its unexpected twists & mystery to solve. I highly recommend reading this historical romance as it is not your mainstream saga. I volunteerly reviewed an advanced reading copy of this novel.

[Teri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author weaves a tail that is full of suspense and romance. Not knowing which is my favorite at the moment I had to indulge. This passionate story of a woman who by all accounts is master killer and manipulator and if you ask her slowly losing her mind, has twist that will send you down one lane of thinking only to be forced to retreat and think again. Is she really a Black Widow or is someone out to portray her as such. The action is booming and not being a fan of historical romance I still found myself enthralled in the story and customs. Great story I highly recommend for some heat, action and suspense, with a heroine who isn't afraid of danger but willing to put herself front and center when all others would cower to protect those she loves.

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a well-executed mystery romance story. Gideon suspects that Amelia had killed or had something to do with Martin's death. However, he is also very much attracted to her. As he is trying to get to the bottom of it, he is discovering things are not what it seemed. Adding to that is the passion between him and Ameilia can't be ignored anymore. The purpose changed to protecting her and figuring what or who could be tormenting her. It came to a head at the ruins of her old family home and how she handled her adversary after what was revealed from her childhood was a testament to her resilience. Equal parts mystery, romance, steamy sex and suspense made for a great story. [I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.]

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A regency horror tale with romance.
This historical was not what I expected and it blew me away. This was a regency horror tale with a romance blended in. This book was awesome I could not put it down. Gideon believes Amelia murdered her husband his cousin and means to prove it and see she is punished. He also believes she had help with the murder. Now as he starts to spend more time he begins to believe that there is more. The villain was so unique and made for such an interesting read. This book was so good it is two thumbs up to the author. I highly recommend this tale it is marvelous. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great historical read! Amelia’s husband Martin died and she is the prime suspect although no one can prove she had anything to do with it. Gideon is Martin’s cousin and believe Amelia is the responsible party and plans to find out what happened. As Gideon gets closer to Amelia their attraction grows, but Amelia is hiding so many secrets, can they find out what really happened and move forward together. Mystery, suspense and drama glue you to this read. Gideon and Amelia are great characters and their chemistry is intense. I loved it.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first time reading this author and it was an awesome read. It was a captivating plot with character and story line that kept me reading all night long. It's a historical regency romance with mystery and paranormal. I loved watching Gideon and Amelia and their attraction grow. There's plenty of suspense, drama and mystery with romance to keep your interest through out the entire book. I highly recommend this book and can't wait to read more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa Caddick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love will always find a way

Amelia has known Gideon for most of her life, and has always been attracted to him. She ended up marrying Martin, her long-time friend from childhood. Though they were happy until his death, Martin loved her, but not as a husband should. He was in love with Crispin, another friend. On Martin's death, he vowed to look after her, but Amelia is still drawn to Gideon. Can they move through the obstacles in their way, or will circumstances tear them apart?

[Shayay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one has that gothic regency vibe just like the first book, so I love that! Plus, I’m all on board for the paranormal elements! Interesting additions to the story, and an enjoyable bit of mystery involved for the characters. I like the whole not starting out on the best of terms scenario for the lead couple; he thinks she murdered her husband, so not exactly a good starting off point for romance. Not huge on the widow aspect, but enjoyed how Amelia and Gideon’s chemistry develops. Got some passion going on between these two! Enjoying this series!

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the series, can be read as a standalone. Feisty widow Amelia is suspected of killing her husband Martin. Martin's cousin, Gideon wants to prove it, but soon finds out more is going on. Suspense, secrets, surprises, romance, horror, mystery it has it all. I loved it!! Not to be missed, you will be Spellbound!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Reena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even if you haven't read the first book in the series, don't hesitate to give this one a try. Romance, suspense, mystery, drama with a healthy dose of paranormal set in Regency England, will keep you rooted to your e-reader from start to finish. I absolutely devoured it and can't wait for the next book in the series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gideon, the Earl of Flint, believes his cousin Martin was murdered by Amelia, so he sets out to prove it. Instead, Gideon discovers a complicated story involving his Uncle Clarence, the witch he employed, and the golem they created. This story is full of evil deeds, romance, and steam, ending with a cliffhanger. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book in a box set via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Scarolet Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black Widow: A Spellbound Regency Novel by Lucy Leroux is an awesome story to read. This is book number two in this awesome series that I have fallen in love reading in the first book of this series. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about historical and paranormal romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

She is now a widow but the cousin believes she had something to do with it. A problem is he seems to be getting closer to her. Did she have something to with it? Will he fall in love with her? See if he finds the truth

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anadosen · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started reading I couldn't put it down.Lucy Leroux is magnifysent and amazing writer.I cannot wait to read more of there books.Keep up the great work.You should definitely read this books.Can't wait for the next book.

[Gaynor Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

All is not what it seems

This paranormal, regency romance is full of mystery, danger, murder, secrets, intruige, misconceptions, lust, chemistry, and more. Amelia and Gideon are strong compelling characters and make for an entertaining read.

[Eunice Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an intriguing twist in this suspenseful Regency romance. It kept me turning pages right to the end, (I voluntarily reviewed this free ARC).

[Sandra Singleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://www.amazon.com/review/R3NQRSG...

[Sandy N · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best in the series so far. I just didn't like the supernatural stuff. But all in all, this was a very easy and sexy read.