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Spellbound Seduction

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She thought him dead.
He thought her lost.
One magical second chance ...Arabella Brightley never wanted to be the lady of a grand house. But when her eldest sister marries and leaves England, Bella takes on that role. At least for now. With a male cousin set to inherit Cortwood Manor, Bella focuses on her youngest sister’s forthcoming first a task for which she is ill-prepared. The shyest of the Brightley sisters, Bella has occupied her time with novels, sewing, and dabbling in her late mother’s mysterious book of herbal remedies and family folklore.

While a suitable match for Rosalind is imperative, Bella plans to remain alone. The man she loved, the Duke of Rigby's son, disappeared while riding across Hampstead Heath to see her at Cortwood. Convinced her romantic life has been cursed, Bella fears any gentleman who loves her will meet a similar fate.

Until the night he returns.

Thomas Beecham has spent the past year in service, paying off a debt his father incurred to the steel-willed Lord Trenholm. Thomas has allowed Bella to assume he is dead for her safety, but his desire has never faded. So when an opportunity to reveal himself presents itself, Thomas can’t resist, even as he continues to keep his worst secrets from her. For Thomas Beecham is not who Bella thinks. And the truth could destroy any chance he had of winning her back.

332 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 25, 2022

6 people are currently reading
19 people want to read

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Halley Larkin

5 books31 followers

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5 stars
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14 (37%)
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Bonnie.
1,133 reviews20 followers
December 10, 2022
This is the second story of the Brightley Sisters, and I received a copy of this from BookSprout and this is my freely given opinion.

This is the story of the shy second sister, Arabella, and the mystery of Thomas Beecham, her erstwhile beau who was thought to have been killed by bandits on the heath one night years before, but whom we, the readers, know to have been hidden and working as a valet for Lord Trenholm to pay off his father's debt to the Earl.

This story delves into who Thomas Beecham really is and the mystery of that debt, and his disappearance from Arabella's life.

I will not go into too much of the story as it would give away too much information, but this story continues after Charmaine elopes with Kosta (book 1) and they leave for St. Petersburg. Bella is now left the sister in charge of their charitable endeavours, to plan for younger sister Rosalind's debutante season, and care for their ailing father. She has been delving into her mother's herbal notes and using them to develop some herbal aids which have been helping her father with his chronic health issues. When she finds out Thomas is still alive, but trapped in Trenholm's household, despite her hurt and disappointment over the sudden break in their relationship and his lies, she works to transfer that debt so that he is brought into the Brightley home and he could instead be the caregiver for their father.

Their relationship reignites, but Thomas is hiding deeper secrets that he is working up the nerve to expose to Bella, and there is the added barrier of Greyson, the son and heir of Trenholm who is "courting" Bella, and he ropes in the Brightley heir, and they both conspire to cause mischief for the Brightley's and Thomas.

I really enjoy the writing of Halley Larkin so far. The characters are a bit different and engaging and I really like how different Thomas was from Kosta from book 1. I was incredibly saddened in book 1 to see that Maggie, the Brightley mother who was the maid in the prequel had died, and that their father (the marquess from the prequel) seemed to be terminally ill. I really enjoyed their story and to not have them in their children's stories was disappointing. However, Maggie's presence and voice seemed to be carried on by her daughters, and more so in this story, and while Rob Brightley seemed to be at death's door, and was just mentioned in passing in book 1, he is much more present and part of the story in this one. I was quite confused by who Thomas Beecham was and his masquerade and payment of debt to Trenholm, but it becomes very clear later on and the barriers to the relationship between Bella and Thomas shift and change as his secrets become exposed.

3.5 stars out of 5.

Profile Image for Jennifer .
1,637 reviews34 followers
December 6, 2022
An enjoyable and engaging historical romance with a second chance at romance theme. The shyest of the Brightley sisters, Arabella is now the lady of a grand house, following the marriage of her eldest sister. However, a male cousin is set to inherit Cortwood Manor, so Bella is focused on her youngest sister, Rosalind’s first season, in the hope of a marriage. Unfortunately, Bella is more used to reading, sewing and dabbling in her late mother’s mysterious book of herbal remedies and family folklore.

Following the disappearance and presumed death of the man Bella loved, Thomas Beecham, Bella plans to stay unmarried. Then Thomas returns, having spent a year in service, paying off his father’s debt, and he’s still in love with Bella. He had to make her think he was dead for her safety, however, even though he’s back he is still keeping secrets from her. Thomas is not who Bella thinks, and the truth could destroy any chance he has of winning her back. The descriptive narrative brought the characters and the setting vividly to life, and along with the historical period details, made me feel immersed in the story. The characters are wonderfully detailed and I loved the connection between Bella and Thomas. I look forward to book three in this series.
Profile Image for Tracy.
365 reviews4 followers
December 18, 2022
This is my first book by this author, and historical is not my usual genre, I liked the blurb and cover so dove in. This is book 2 in the series I have not read book 1 and this is a good stand alone, although I feel book 1 would also be a great read.
We follow the story surrounding the Brightley sisters; focusing on Arabella, who feels that she has been cursed by someone at the country fair that her and her sisters snuck out to.
The middle of 2 sisters, Arabella is the sensible one, the wallflower, the one people take as the easy, simple quiet one. Behind this facade grows an amazing strong willed female who knows what she wants and of the age works hard to get it.
Looking after her sister Rosalind and their father, after Charmaine her older sister elopes to marry her Russian Duke.
At a time when men ruled the home and expected their women to bend to their will, with an ailing father and a prospective husband missing suspected dead, Arabella continues steadfast to accomplish and look after those she loves, including Thomas.
Although Thomas is not who he portrays himself to be, he has a deep story that he is trying to pout right, can he accomplish this before Bella is forced to step away.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and would read more.
Profile Image for Jenni.
6,409 reviews79 followers
December 6, 2022
Spellbound Seduction is set in Victorian England, circa 1850 and is a historical romance tale. I really fell in love with the Brightley Sisters in the first book and was glad to see Spellbound Seduction was out. This is Arabella’s story and what a story it is. I am not usually a huge fan of historical fiction because I don’t like how women could not inherit etc but Halley’s writing spoke to me. Whilst I still like those things I have enjoyed the Brightley Sisters series.
The story is well written, with a twist of lies and deceit, secrets and broken hearts.
Bella is determined to see her younger sister set in a suitable match. So she focuses her all on her younger sister Rosalind. She is resigned to a life on her own after losing her one true love. Just when she thought her life was settled the past comes galloping in changing everything but will the lies be too much to find her own happiness.
The story will entice even those who are not lovers of historical romance. Witchcraft? Maybe…….
Profile Image for Angela.
8,510 reviews121 followers
December 7, 2022
4.5 Stars

Spellbound Seduction is the second captivating book in The Brightley Sisters series by Halley Larkin. I loved the first book, and so I had quite high expectations for this instalment. Ms. Larkin didn’t disappoint, weaving a story that was everything I could have hoped for.
Having met, and loved the Brightley sisters back in book one, which is elder sister Charmain’s story, I really wanted to know more about Bella, and Rose. Spellbound Seduction is Arabella’s (Bella’s) story- and what an engrossing tale it turned out to be… Bella thinks she’s cursed to be alone with the ‘death’ of her love years earlier. So imagine her shock when he appears out of the blue… What happened to him?? Where has he been?? What happens when secrets are revealed?? Will fate give them a second chance at love?? With secrets, angst, danger, dramatic developments, love, loss, heartache, family, revelations, and more- this historical romance is well worth the read.
Can’t wait for Book #3!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Halley Larkin!
64 reviews1 follower
December 21, 2022
I came into this series on Book 2 and was mildly concerned I should have started with the first book. But the problem was, once I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down. Thankfully, my concerns were moot because I was able to jump right into the Brightley sisters world!

Arabella, the loyal, responsible, and shy sister is steadfast in her resolve to aid her ailing father, looking after her younger sister, and doing her best to keep her family’s name and future in order. Despite being deceived by her former fiancé, thinking he was dead when in fact he was very much alive and hiding his own dark secrets, Bella finds the courage and strength to help him too. She is a damn saint at times! She is pulled into so many different directions you can’t help but feel sorry for her and yet envy her strength and tenacity at the same time. Thomas is still in love with Bella but continues to hide his secrets from her. Together they face two foes who threaten all they hold dear. Will Bella and Thomas save their families and save their love? Read this book to find out!
Author 13 books59 followers
December 22, 2022
5/5 Stars

Spellbound Seduction (The Brightley Sisters #2) by Halley Larkin

This is the first book I've read by the author. Spellbound Seduction is the second book in The Brightley Sisters Series. I had a hard time putting it down. I really didn't want it to end.

Bella is in love with Thomas, but then he disappears. Not being heard from again. She tries to move on, but it's a little difficult. She then finds that he's not really dead. The quote I chose for Bella is: “I should think you know all of my secrets by now. Didn’t you hear the two of us the other night when you and Mrs. Darlington suddenly decided you needed to visit the library? I assumed you were listening in.”

Thomas left to take care of his father. He left Bella behind for her safety. He lets her believe he's dead in order for her to stay safe. Things turn bad when he's blamed for his father's crimes. The quote I chose for Thomas is: “He wants to take her lands before he has any legal claim to them."

Highly recommended for Historical Romance lovers.
Profile Image for Susan Ratchford.
196 reviews1 follower
December 8, 2022
Spellbound Seduction
The Brightley Sisters Book 2
By: Halley Larkin
Review by: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars



I am spellbound by this series! I adore Historical Fiction and Romance and Halley Larkin writes this series with such finesse! So far Arabella, or Bella is my favorite out of the three sisters. I was always the shyest one in my family so her and her hobbies really resonated with me. I also really enjoyed the inclusion of witchcraft. The family folklore and herbal remedies bring a new intrigue into The Brightley Sisters. The second chance at love romance was also really cute and had me rooting for Bella and Thomas’ relationship. With family secrets, lies, and true loves that were thought dead this book delivers and surpasses what it promises! I can't wait for the final installment Enchanted Engagement to see how Larkin ends this utterly enchanting series.
78 reviews
December 21, 2022
Spellbound Seduction
Halley Larkin

Arabella, Bella for family and close friends, is the second daughter of Lord Cortham, since her sister decided that love conquers all and eloped with her true love the now hostess responsibilities lie in her shoulders.
Once very much in love, Bella lost on an unfortunate night the man of dreams, and suffered through a year of pain and anguish. What she does not know is that destiny has a significant surprise in store for her.

Thomas Beecham was an almost duke, at least before he decided to fake his own kidnapping and demise. Now he is employed by one of the men his father made fun of by lying and stealing, in order to pay the debt. A year under the thump of this man will grant him liberty, but oh destiny will make him a low play when he finds out once again the woman of his dreams.
Profile Image for Shelly.
1,226 reviews3 followers
December 6, 2022
This a terrific second-chance romance. The story of Thomas and Bella is one that just kind of rips your heart and yet, warms it also. They have gone through so much. Through the story, you watch their characters work so hard at trying to get the relationship to work but their so many issues in the way. I found the characters in the story charming; some irritating and annoying (Thomas father is one of them). The plot was doable for the time it was set in and flowed nicely along with what I remembered from Book 1 of the series. I love these sisters. They work so hard to keep their independence but have to give up a bit because of the time they are in. That truly takes massive courage. Great book.
1,931 reviews24 followers
December 19, 2022
Spellbound Seduction (The Brightley Sisters Book 2) by Halley Larkin. This is the second installment of The Brightley Sisters series and this one is about Arabella the sweet shy sister. The man Bella is in love with Thomas Beecham has disappeared and is presumed dead. Bella is put in charge of Cortwood Manor so she is focused on her younger sister's debutante season. When she finds out Thomas is still alive and held hostage at another manor she is deeply hurt by his lies but figures out how to pay his ransom and bring him home. Still in love with him Bella tries to trust Thomas but he still has so many secrets she just doesn't know. Add to that Rob Brightley trying to court her making her all confused. Read this fun historical fiction novel to find out what happens to Bella.
135 reviews5 followers
December 19, 2022
After the tragic loss of the man she loved, Arabella believes herself cursed. In the wake of her eldest sister's marriage and the new season in which she must find a suitable match for her younger sister, the last thing this Brightly sister expected was the sudden appearance of her lost love. Alive and well, Thomas Beecham has been dealing with his own problems since he last saw Arabella Brightly. Though I'm not normally into historical romances, I did enjoy how well-written this book was and the well-developed characters within. You don't have to read the first book to read this one, it's easy to follow the story line and the content is sure to hold your attention.
4,720 reviews40 followers
December 3, 2022
A bit of witchcraft.
What a wonderful second chance romance. I loved the characters Bella and Thomas had been so close at one time but obstacles pulled them apart. When fate allowed a possible second chance the challenges they face still could derail their chance. Bella is wonderful as she stands up for what she wants. This well written gem was a pure joy to read a great story, good characters, and a lovely ending for at least some of the characters. There is a bit of cliffhanger to this tale. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
Profile Image for Cheyenne Sioux.
Author 2 books43 followers
December 16, 2022
Spellbound Seduction By Halley Larkin

4 out of 5 stars

What a gripping story! Spellbound Seduction follows the story of Brightley sister Arabella who fears she is cursed to be alone forever after the death of her love prior. Until suddenly, he appears very much alive and well. Confusion and questions stir as secrets arise.

Will there be too much to keep them a part or will their love be able to rekindle?

A drama filled historical romance that will keep you wanting to know what happened.
Profile Image for Candida Furbush.
831 reviews10 followers
December 18, 2022
Historical Romance isn't a genre I usually read but this was a good one. Bella lost the love of her life so she feels like she will be alone forever. Bella puts her time into making sure her younger sister's first season is a good one. Bella's lost love (Thomas)shows up one day, is it too much hope they can have a second chance? There are some secrets that may cause their second chance some trouble. This author did a wonderful job writing a lovely story that kept me turning the pages. This is a must read to find out more about Thomas and Bella, and some other great characters in this story.
3,092 reviews34 followers
December 19, 2022
This is a brilliant historical romance all about second chances at love. I was drawn to the character Bella straight away and thought she was one of those characters that carries the book. I loved watching her develop as the story progressed and seeing her connection to Thomas.
The author really connects the story to the reader. The book has a bit of everything and it matches the strength of the characters. This was an easy book to read because I enjoyed it so much. I am looking forward to seeing what else is to come from this series.
75 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2022
Arabella's older sister Charmaine has married and left England, leaving her to look for a respectable marriage match for their younger sister. Arabella herself is completely devastated after losing the love of her life. She believes herself to be cursed and fears that anyone else that may come to care for her will be hurt, so she plans to stay forever alone.
Suddenly, Thomas Beecham is here, and in front of her. He is alive. And he still loves Arabella just as she loves him. But not all is as it seems, and truth and deceit are playing a dangerous game in this beautiful historical romance.
77 reviews2 followers
December 20, 2022
Such a great read!! I want to say, although this is book two in it's series, it very well may be read as a standalone. But honestly, I would give book one a read first!! I enjoyed this book so. I LOVE a good second chance book. It did have quiet a lovely ending. The characters were wonderful. The story was one of the best historical romances I've read in a while. The author did amazing with the storyline. Excited to read the next in the series!!
173 reviews3 followers
December 21, 2022
Now we move on to the second sister, Arabella, who becomes lady of the house after her older sister gets married and moves. She is still put on the task of finding someone for her youngest sister, but she won't for herself. That is her belief since she is thought that her beloved was lost and gone to the world. Little did she know that was not true, till they meet again. So much happens in this book and is such a great read just like the first! :)
Profile Image for Kat M.
5,193 reviews18 followers
December 6, 2022
This does a great job in the Brightley Sisters series, it had a great concept and did what I was hoping for from the first book. I'm glad I got to read this world again, it had a great historical setting and was what I wanted from this type of book. Halley Larkin had a great writing style.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for N.
147 reviews38 followers
December 21, 2022
This is the second book in the Brightley Sisters series. I hadn't read the first book going into this one, so I was a bit lost in the beginning, but the story picks up and I enjoyed it anyway. I might go back and read the first one, since I enjoyed the writing and I loved all the historical details. Plus it's got intriguing turns that kept me going. I am definitely looking forward to Book 3!
2,366 reviews6 followers
April 26, 2024
Arabella is now to take o er the family’s side with their charity and overall daily business. Thomas, the Duke of Rigsby has his own problems and secrets but he does love Bell when all those secrets get revealed Bell and her family wade through the difficulties inv with it all and finally Thomas and Bell get their hea
Profile Image for Trista Martin .
485 reviews32 followers
December 20, 2022
Love that in this next story we get Arabella's story. There were twists in the first book and Halley gives us even more surprises in this second book. Once again she did an amazing job and left me wanting more. Can't wait to see what she has in store in Rose's story.
Profile Image for Jasmin Slagle.
93 reviews2 followers
December 22, 2022
Loved this book. Arabella is a wonderful character. Excellent story line. Now to find and devour the first book of the series.
Profile Image for Jessica.
950 reviews11 followers
February 20, 2024
He sacrificed for love of his father, even if it meant giving up the love of his life. He had a second chance with her but he had to make another sacrifice to save her from another’s mean spirited plot. He is the love of her life though, and she doesn’t give up easily either. An excellent romance to enjoy a little quiet time!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lauren.
75 reviews7 followers
February 28, 2023
I adore Larkin's prose. She brings historical settings, clothing, and customs to life. This is the second book in a series, which follows sisters who are very different, yet all on their way to romance with a potential husband. In addition to that, Larkin includes themes of independence and support for other women in her work. A true joy to read!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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