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Cynster Next Generation #11
The Time for Love
#1 New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Laurens explores what happens when a gentleman intent on acquiring a business meets the unconventional lady-owner, only to discover that she is not the biggest or the most lethal hurdle they and the business face.
Martin Cynster arrives at Carmichael Steelworks set on acquiring the business as the jewel in his industrialist’s crown, only to discover that the lady owner is not at all what he expected.
Miss Sophia Carmichael learned about steelmaking at her father’s knee and, having inherited the major shareholding, sees no reason not to continue exactly as she is—running the steelworks and steadily becoming an expert in steel alloys. When Martin Cynster tracks her down, she has no option but to listen to his offer—until impending disaster on the steelworks floor interrupts.
Consequently, she tries to dismiss Martin, but he’s persistent, and as he has now saved her life, gratitude compels her to hear him out. And day by day, as his understanding of her and the works grows, what he offers grows increasingly tempting, until a merger, both business-wise and personal, is very much on their cards.
But a series of ever-escalating incidents makes it clear someone else has an eye on the steelworks. The quest to learn who and why leads Martin and Sophy into ever greater danger as, layer by layer, they uncover a diabolical scheme that, ultimately, will drain the lifeblood not just from the steelworks but from the city of Sheffield as well.
A classic historical romance, incorporating adventure and intrigue, set in Sheffield. A Cynster Next Generation novel. A full-length historical romance of 100,000 words.
Martin Cynster arrives at Carmichael Steelworks set on acquiring the business as the jewel in his industrialist’s crown, only to discover that the lady owner is not at all what he expected.
Miss Sophia Carmichael learned about steelmaking at her father’s knee and, having inherited the major shareholding, sees no reason not to continue exactly as she is—running the steelworks and steadily becoming an expert in steel alloys. When Martin Cynster tracks her down, she has no option but to listen to his offer—until impending disaster on the steelworks floor interrupts.
Consequently, she tries to dismiss Martin, but he’s persistent, and as he has now saved her life, gratitude compels her to hear him out. And day by day, as his understanding of her and the works grows, what he offers grows increasingly tempting, until a merger, both business-wise and personal, is very much on their cards.
But a series of ever-escalating incidents makes it clear someone else has an eye on the steelworks. The quest to learn who and why leads Martin and Sophy into ever greater danger as, layer by layer, they uncover a diabolical scheme that, ultimately, will drain the lifeblood not just from the steelworks but from the city of Sheffield as well.
A classic historical romance, incorporating adventure and intrigue, set in Sheffield. A Cynster Next Generation novel. A full-length historical romance of 100,000 words.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2022
144 people are currently reading
548 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Laurens
207 books5,592 followersStephanie Laurens was born in Sri Lanka, which was at the time the British colony of Ceylon. When she was 5, her family moved to Melbourne, Australia, where she was raised. After continuing through school and earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry in Australia, Stephanie and her husband moved to Great Britain, taking one of the last true overland journeys from Katmandu to London.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 21, 2022
The Time for Love by Stephanie Laurens is the 12th book in the Cynster Next Generation series
I have always loved reading the Cynster Series by Stephanie Laurens. However once she began to write the next generation series for some reason I fell off reading them. I picked up this book on a whim and just loved it! I forgot how well Stephanie Laurens writes. Her stories have great story lines even with the twists and turns.
Martin Cynster was looking to acquire Carmichael Steelworks. He was excited by the prospects of having a place to make different types of steel as needed for the future. Sophia Carmichael owned the majority of Carmichael Steelworks. She was fascinated with the various alloys they made and learned to work with. And it was not for sale.
Martin found Sophia as interesting as her company. Then he was drawn into the various incidents that seem to be happening to the company. Then another person approached her and suddenly she has her own investigation squad to help her find the person who wanted to sabotage her company and life. Martin is very interested in Sophia and Sophia is very interested in Martin!
The Time for Love by Stephanie Laurens is a great read. Interesting characters and a great storyline!
I have always loved reading the Cynster Series by Stephanie Laurens. However once she began to write the next generation series for some reason I fell off reading them. I picked up this book on a whim and just loved it! I forgot how well Stephanie Laurens writes. Her stories have great story lines even with the twists and turns.
Martin Cynster was looking to acquire Carmichael Steelworks. He was excited by the prospects of having a place to make different types of steel as needed for the future. Sophia Carmichael owned the majority of Carmichael Steelworks. She was fascinated with the various alloys they made and learned to work with. And it was not for sale.
Martin found Sophia as interesting as her company. Then he was drawn into the various incidents that seem to be happening to the company. Then another person approached her and suddenly she has her own investigation squad to help her find the person who wanted to sabotage her company and life. Martin is very interested in Sophia and Sophia is very interested in Martin!
The Time for Love by Stephanie Laurens is a great read. Interesting characters and a great storyline!
August 23, 2022
I love every story that Stephanie Laurens writes. That being said, I believe I own every single one in either hard copy or e-book form. I adore her characters. She describes them so well and their situations, that I feel like I know them. I loved these characters and the plot of this tale. You can't beat a Cynster story. I do want to know what Blackwell will do though and hope we find out. I am so looking forward to reading the next installment of this family and series.
February 2, 2024
Not bad.
January 12, 2023
Ever since Laurens left Avon (or perhaps was dropped? I have never been sure), her novels have been OK, but not exceptional. They seem somewhat lackluster, particularly in comparison to her original Cynster series (and of those, particularly the first 8 or 10.) I have continued reading her books for old time’s sake, and to revisit well-loved characters. After the last several books, I was almost ready to call it quits, but I can’t seem to let go of the hope that she will return to form, so I bought her latest Cynster Next Generation novel, The Time for Love.
And it was… better than OK, but still not up to her prior standard.
Martin Cynster, youngest son of Vane and Patience ( A Rake's Vow , Cynsters #2) has put off love and marriage for rather a long time in favor of pursuing his business interests. Now in his late 30s, he is in Sheffield, attempting to buy the Carmichael Steelworks. He is unaware that the majority owner, Sophia Carmichael, is a chemical engineer of considerable skill, runing the steelworks and overseeing the development of new alloys herself. (Yes, this is highly unlikely in 1863, but just go with it.)
Martin proves remarkably flexible in his views vis-a-vis a woman’s place—or perhaps it’s not so remarkable, given the plethora of strong-willed, independent woman who have married or been born into the Cynster family over the years. All of them have found ways to be full partners in their marriages, often despite the protectiveness of their Cynster husbands and/or relatives. At any rate, Martin rapidly reassesses his goal; while he still wants the steelworks, he realizes its worth depends on the woman at the helm… a lady by whom he is instantly captivated. To be honest, I immediately suspected his motives—is it Sophy or the steelworks that he wants most? Thankfully, by the end of the book, it’s clear that Sophy comes first.
But of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. A series of “accidents” has plagued Carmichael Steelworks in recent months, and Martin arrives in time to see one and save Sophy from another. The novel proceeds as a fairly typical Laurens-style mystery-romance, with a range of suspects: a business rival of Martin’s; the heads of such organized crime as exists in Sheffield; a mysterious stranger seen talking with Sophy’s prig of a cousin, Edward; and either or both of Sophy’s cousins (and fellow shareholders.)
Despite the accidents and even a kidnapping, the tension overall felt muted. I’m not sure how much of that was due to the writing and how much to the fact that it’s a romance (so I knew basically where things were headed), but some is undoubtedly the fault of the writing. If Laurens’s earlier books can maintain the tension even on subsequent rereads, while this one struggles to achieve a similar level of tension even on the first reading, it’s got to be something in the writing and/or pacing. The revelation of the villain and the pair’s confrontation with him ultimately fell flat, and (spoiler alert!) I found his apparent about-face in the epilogue completely unbelievable.
That said, Martin and Sophy (particularly Sophy) are likeable enough as characters, and the historical details about Sheffield’s steel industry are interesting (though I can’t vouch for their accuracy, since that’s neither a field nor an era in which I can claim much expertise.) I enjoyed the book while I was reading it, but I can’t say that it will stay with me in any lasting way. Call it the bookish equivalent of a sugar cookie: sweet (although there is one steamy scene), pleasant, but rather bland.
Review originally published on my blog, The Bookwyrm's Hoard.
Qualifies for the following challenges: COYER Upside Down Ch. 1.
And it was… better than OK, but still not up to her prior standard.
Martin Cynster, youngest son of Vane and Patience ( A Rake's Vow , Cynsters #2) has put off love and marriage for rather a long time in favor of pursuing his business interests. Now in his late 30s, he is in Sheffield, attempting to buy the Carmichael Steelworks. He is unaware that the majority owner, Sophia Carmichael, is a chemical engineer of considerable skill, runing the steelworks and overseeing the development of new alloys herself. (Yes, this is highly unlikely in 1863, but just go with it.)
Martin proves remarkably flexible in his views vis-a-vis a woman’s place—or perhaps it’s not so remarkable, given the plethora of strong-willed, independent woman who have married or been born into the Cynster family over the years. All of them have found ways to be full partners in their marriages, often despite the protectiveness of their Cynster husbands and/or relatives. At any rate, Martin rapidly reassesses his goal; while he still wants the steelworks, he realizes its worth depends on the woman at the helm… a lady by whom he is instantly captivated. To be honest, I immediately suspected his motives—is it Sophy or the steelworks that he wants most? Thankfully, by the end of the book, it’s clear that Sophy comes first.
But of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. A series of “accidents” has plagued Carmichael Steelworks in recent months, and Martin arrives in time to see one and save Sophy from another. The novel proceeds as a fairly typical Laurens-style mystery-romance, with a range of suspects: a business rival of Martin’s; the heads of such organized crime as exists in Sheffield; a mysterious stranger seen talking with Sophy’s prig of a cousin, Edward; and either or both of Sophy’s cousins (and fellow shareholders.)
Despite the accidents and even a kidnapping, the tension overall felt muted. I’m not sure how much of that was due to the writing and how much to the fact that it’s a romance (so I knew basically where things were headed), but some is undoubtedly the fault of the writing. If Laurens’s earlier books can maintain the tension even on subsequent rereads, while this one struggles to achieve a similar level of tension even on the first reading, it’s got to be something in the writing and/or pacing. The revelation of the villain and the pair’s confrontation with him ultimately fell flat, and (spoiler alert!) I found his apparent about-face in the epilogue completely unbelievable.
That said, Martin and Sophy (particularly Sophy) are likeable enough as characters, and the historical details about Sheffield’s steel industry are interesting (though I can’t vouch for their accuracy, since that’s neither a field nor an era in which I can claim much expertise.) I enjoyed the book while I was reading it, but I can’t say that it will stay with me in any lasting way. Call it the bookish equivalent of a sugar cookie: sweet (although there is one steamy scene), pleasant, but rather bland.
Review originally published on my blog, The Bookwyrm's Hoard.
Qualifies for the following challenges: COYER Upside Down Ch. 1.
September 28, 2022
I can see why some reviewers complain about a lack of romance. It is true the attraction between Martin and Sophy runs smoothly and there is restrain in its physical expression. Only a couple of what one might call "steamy" episodes. That is a pleasant change. The adventure is interesting showing us industrial Sheffield and steel works. There is a real sense of time moving on and it is strange to hear the main characters travelling by train rather than curricles or coaches. However, of course this story is part of the Cynsters "next generation".
I felt Oliver was a rather superfluous character and was expecting him to turn out to have been the villain all along; but no, he was indeed only a friend. I thought the way that strand was completed was weak.
Also not very convincing was the total change of heart of the villain in the epilogue. It does show how thoroughly decent Martin is, of course, but we knew that from the outset! Maybe we'll hear more about this in Toby's story.
I find Ms Laurens is at her best when she focuses on the changes in society or political espionage. this why the bastion club series or "the secret of Grayson child" are so much better than a book like "The game lovers play". The efficient police inspector Curtin shows how much policing has progressed since the first adventures of Barnaby Adair.
So overall this is an interesting book, in the best Laurens tradition and I look forward to reading Toby's story, particularly his involvement with spymaster Drake Varisey whose father Dalziel was such an likeable character!
I felt Oliver was a rather superfluous character and was expecting him to turn out to have been the villain all along; but no, he was indeed only a friend. I thought the way that strand was completed was weak.
Also not very convincing was the total change of heart of the villain in the epilogue. It does show how thoroughly decent Martin is, of course, but we knew that from the outset! Maybe we'll hear more about this in Toby's story.
I find Ms Laurens is at her best when she focuses on the changes in society or political espionage. this why the bastion club series or "the secret of Grayson child" are so much better than a book like "The game lovers play". The efficient police inspector Curtin shows how much policing has progressed since the first adventures of Barnaby Adair.
So overall this is an interesting book, in the best Laurens tradition and I look forward to reading Toby's story, particularly his involvement with spymaster Drake Varisey whose father Dalziel was such an likeable character!
June 18, 2024
My rating for The Time For Love, by Stephanie Laurens: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
This book, and the others in the Cynsters Next Generation series, is well-written -- but it is not as good as the earlier Cynster books. All of the books seem unnecessarily wordy, and many are just too long.
My main issue with this book is all the emphasis on the mystery. I felt that the book was more about the mystery than it was about the romance. I didn't mind the mystery, just felt that the romance should have taken center stage. I actually got a little bored with the mystery part of the story, because there was just so much detail about it. Much of that detail could have been left out, and the story would not have suffered.
The earlier Cynster books usually had a mystery or problem to solve, but the main story was always the romance -- in this series, in every book I've read so far, it seemed that the romances were very secondary to another plot point.
On thing I do appreciate about Laurens' romances are that the love scenes are usually not extremely explicit. I like love scenes in my romances, but don't care to read the really explicit, dirty ones. That is just not romantic to me.
Stephanie Laurens is an excellent writer, but this series so far has had too much emphasis on other plot points -- and not enough on the romances. Since I read Laurens' books for the romances, I don't really enjoy so much emphasis on other things.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
This book, and the others in the Cynsters Next Generation series, is well-written -- but it is not as good as the earlier Cynster books. All of the books seem unnecessarily wordy, and many are just too long.
My main issue with this book is all the emphasis on the mystery. I felt that the book was more about the mystery than it was about the romance. I didn't mind the mystery, just felt that the romance should have taken center stage. I actually got a little bored with the mystery part of the story, because there was just so much detail about it. Much of that detail could have been left out, and the story would not have suffered.
The earlier Cynster books usually had a mystery or problem to solve, but the main story was always the romance -- in this series, in every book I've read so far, it seemed that the romances were very secondary to another plot point.
On thing I do appreciate about Laurens' romances are that the love scenes are usually not extremely explicit. I like love scenes in my romances, but don't care to read the really explicit, dirty ones. That is just not romantic to me.
Stephanie Laurens is an excellent writer, but this series so far has had too much emphasis on other plot points -- and not enough on the romances. Since I read Laurens' books for the romances, I don't really enjoy so much emphasis on other things.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
July 22, 2023
Barbara’s rating: 4 of 5 Stars
Series: Cynster Next Generation #11
Publication Date: 8/18/22
Period: Victorian – May 1863 – Sheffield, South Yorkshire
Number of Pages: 390
I’ve never read a Stephanie Laurens book I didn’t love – and this one is no different. I loved it. She has a unique writing style and a way of making emotions jump off the page. I’ve read so many (all) of the Cynster books that I can hardly keep the family lines straight – but she has thoughtfully created family trees for them and has updated those trees over the years.
Martin Cynster, the youngest child of Vane and Patience Cynster (A Rake's Vow -Cynster #2). He has always searched for his place in the family and in the world. A restless soul, he traveled to America and began his fortune. Now, back in England, he’s built substantial wealth and just needs one more factor to complete his iron and steel empire. That factory has to be unique – and he’s found the perfect one. Now, all he has to do is convince the owner to sell.
Miss Sophia Carmichael has been involved in the Carmichael steelworks almost since she was old enough to walk. She learned at her father’s side and he was a master – so when she inherits majority ownership of the company upon his death, she continues to run it. Then, Martin Cynster comes in, saves her life, and wants to buy her company. Well!
Someone is out to ruin Carmichael Steelworks, and Martin is going to help get to the bottom of it whether Sophia agrees to sell to him or not. This time, a Cynster might have bitten off more than they can chew because the accidents continue – assaults and kidnappings occur and there is danger around every corner.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and I hope you will as well. I thought the solution was a very interesting one, but I didn’t buy the sudden and complete change of heart for the villain. Martin and Sophia make an admiral pair and a perfect Cynster match.
Series: Cynster Next Generation #11
Publication Date: 8/18/22
Period: Victorian – May 1863 – Sheffield, South Yorkshire
Number of Pages: 390
I’ve never read a Stephanie Laurens book I didn’t love – and this one is no different. I loved it. She has a unique writing style and a way of making emotions jump off the page. I’ve read so many (all) of the Cynster books that I can hardly keep the family lines straight – but she has thoughtfully created family trees for them and has updated those trees over the years.
Martin Cynster, the youngest child of Vane and Patience Cynster (A Rake's Vow -Cynster #2). He has always searched for his place in the family and in the world. A restless soul, he traveled to America and began his fortune. Now, back in England, he’s built substantial wealth and just needs one more factor to complete his iron and steel empire. That factory has to be unique – and he’s found the perfect one. Now, all he has to do is convince the owner to sell.
Miss Sophia Carmichael has been involved in the Carmichael steelworks almost since she was old enough to walk. She learned at her father’s side and he was a master – so when she inherits majority ownership of the company upon his death, she continues to run it. Then, Martin Cynster comes in, saves her life, and wants to buy her company. Well!
Someone is out to ruin Carmichael Steelworks, and Martin is going to help get to the bottom of it whether Sophia agrees to sell to him or not. This time, a Cynster might have bitten off more than they can chew because the accidents continue – assaults and kidnappings occur and there is danger around every corner.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and I hope you will as well. I thought the solution was a very interesting one, but I didn’t buy the sudden and complete change of heart for the villain. Martin and Sophia make an admiral pair and a perfect Cynster match.
November 27, 2022
Martin Cynster arrives in Sheffield in May 1863 determined to purchase a steel works for his burgeoning manufacturing empire, and in fact Carmichael Steel, with its niche alloy business, fits into his array of businesses perfectly. He is confident he can persuade its owner, Miss Sophia Carmichael, to sell.
More fool him. Aside from Sophia being the metallurgical for the company, she has also been responsible for its growth and stability since her father died, as well as being an important member ofits. Local closely-knit steel business community. Of course instant chemistry sparks on their first meeting, helped along by a sabotage to factory equipment that puts both their lives and others in danger. It soon becomes apparent that someone is interested in destroying Carmichael Steel, but who and why?
This was quite enjoyable, especially the setting in the steel industry in Victorian times. In fact I wish Laurens had spent more time showing Sophia actually running her business and working as a scientist, not just caught up with unmasking the villain. I did like the surprise action of the villain at the end, leaving me with a feeling that a story of redemption is in the future. All in all this read almost like a novella, being less complex plotting.
More fool him. Aside from Sophia being the metallurgical for the company, she has also been responsible for its growth and stability since her father died, as well as being an important member ofits. Local closely-knit steel business community. Of course instant chemistry sparks on their first meeting, helped along by a sabotage to factory equipment that puts both their lives and others in danger. It soon becomes apparent that someone is interested in destroying Carmichael Steel, but who and why?
This was quite enjoyable, especially the setting in the steel industry in Victorian times. In fact I wish Laurens had spent more time showing Sophia actually running her business and working as a scientist, not just caught up with unmasking the villain. I did like the surprise action of the villain at the end, leaving me with a feeling that a story of redemption is in the future. All in all this read almost like a novella, being less complex plotting.
May 28, 2025
Martin Cynster is an upcoming industrialist. He has one more business to add to his holdings. It is a steelworks business in Sheffield. It is just the business to put the final touch in his businesses. He has written to the owner, offering to buy Carmichael Steelworks. No answer came back to him. So Martin travels to Sheffield to meet with the owner.
It turns out the owner is a woman by the name of Sophia Carmichael. She inherited the business upon the death of her father, at least the major shareholding of the steelworks. The other shareholders are two cousins who have no interest in running the business. Sophia has no interest in selling the business as she has learned the business all her life and is interested in working with steel alloys.
She listens to Martin's offer and is not interested. But an emergency occurs on the factory floor and Martin is there to help. Then more incidents happen, each one worse than the preceding one. It becomes obvious that there is someone out there who wants the business. And as it turns out, that person has a scheme that will drain the lifeblood out of the company and the whole community as well.
Martin and Sophia have a great challenge. And of course, they end up falling in love.
It turns out the owner is a woman by the name of Sophia Carmichael. She inherited the business upon the death of her father, at least the major shareholding of the steelworks. The other shareholders are two cousins who have no interest in running the business. Sophia has no interest in selling the business as she has learned the business all her life and is interested in working with steel alloys.
She listens to Martin's offer and is not interested. But an emergency occurs on the factory floor and Martin is there to help. Then more incidents happen, each one worse than the preceding one. It becomes obvious that there is someone out there who wants the business. And as it turns out, that person has a scheme that will drain the lifeblood out of the company and the whole community as well.
Martin and Sophia have a great challenge. And of course, they end up falling in love.
September 17, 2022
Love the story but miss all the passion you put into your other great story and characters....💖💖💖
To date, he’d lived a full, exciting, distinctly varied, and unexpected life. Now, he was looking forward to all the other excitements he’d never thought would be his to experience—being a husband, experiencing fatherhood, crafting a life within a growing family—with a partner the likes of whom he’d never imagined existed, much less might be by his side. “You,” he murmured. He glanced down at Sophy and, when she turned her face his way, smiled into her turquoise eyes. “You’ve made my future possible. You’ve opened the door to a future I never knew might be there.” She smiled beatifically. “You’ve certainly done the same for me.” “And now…?” “Now, we go forth and claim that future and make it into what we wish it to be. Hand in hand, heart and soul.” “Together,” he stated. “Forever,” she replied. She shifted, stretched up, and kissed him. And as the sun dipped low, they set out to explore all that Fate had gifted them as they started the journey to ultimately realize all the promise their future might hold.
To date, he’d lived a full, exciting, distinctly varied, and unexpected life. Now, he was looking forward to all the other excitements he’d never thought would be his to experience—being a husband, experiencing fatherhood, crafting a life within a growing family—with a partner the likes of whom he’d never imagined existed, much less might be by his side. “You,” he murmured. He glanced down at Sophy and, when she turned her face his way, smiled into her turquoise eyes. “You’ve made my future possible. You’ve opened the door to a future I never knew might be there.” She smiled beatifically. “You’ve certainly done the same for me.” “And now…?” “Now, we go forth and claim that future and make it into what we wish it to be. Hand in hand, heart and soul.” “Together,” he stated. “Forever,” she replied. She shifted, stretched up, and kissed him. And as the sun dipped low, they set out to explore all that Fate had gifted them as they started the journey to ultimately realize all the promise their future might hold.
Read
August 23, 2022This time Martin Cynster finds love while looking to acquire a steelworks. The majority owner is Sophy Carmichael. She's having some sabotage at her steelyard, and Martin steps in to help her find the perpetrator and stop the accidents. They're both fine, and there are a lot of references back to other family members. We learn a lot about making steel in the 1800s.
The real problem I have with the story is that it's basically the same one I've read for most of the Next Generation series. The Cynster hero steps in to help a female having trouble with her business and decides almost immediately that she is his chosen wife. The lady doesn't have much to say about that, but hey, it's a Cynster. He guides her to solving the problem, having sex about midway through the book, and then HEA and big Cynster wedding. It feels very formulaic, and I'm not sure I'll continue the series. The writing is also repetitive, which is annoying but not the worst. I like Ms. Laurens but this feels lazy. At the same time, the story is enjoyable even if you know where it's going.
The real problem I have with the story is that it's basically the same one I've read for most of the Next Generation series. The Cynster hero steps in to help a female having trouble with her business and decides almost immediately that she is his chosen wife. The lady doesn't have much to say about that, but hey, it's a Cynster. He guides her to solving the problem, having sex about midway through the book, and then HEA and big Cynster wedding. It feels very formulaic, and I'm not sure I'll continue the series. The writing is also repetitive, which is annoying but not the worst. I like Ms. Laurens but this feels lazy. At the same time, the story is enjoyable even if you know where it's going.
April 23, 2023
Looking for a steel mill to supply his other business concerns, Martin Cynster believes he can talk Miss Sophia Carmichael into selling. When he meets her, he is not shocked by her business acumen (he has too many accomplished women in his family for that, but he is drawn in by her beauty. He is also concerned because not one but two accidents happen while he is there. Why is someone trying to sabotage her business? He knows it's not him and he doesn't think it's the other person vying for her business, Oliver. Oliver and Martin don't know each other well but Martin knows him well enough to assume that he wouldn't do anything so underhanded.
Oliver was an odd addition in this book. I'm assuming that he is sequel bait but we are also left with Toby, Dalziel's son. Also interesting was that all of the conflict for Sophy and Martin was external. They basically see each other and are ready to hop in. The mystery was a little weak and the ending, with the redemption of the criminal, felt odd.
Oliver was an odd addition in this book. I'm assuming that he is sequel bait but we are also left with Toby, Dalziel's son. Also interesting was that all of the conflict for Sophy and Martin was external. They basically see each other and are ready to hop in. The mystery was a little weak and the ending, with the redemption of the criminal, felt odd.
June 25, 2023
So, the last Cynster book I read disappointed me a bit, but I'm so invested in this amazing family, I decided to read this one. And I'm so glad I did. The story was a solid mystery, with danger, sabotage, and a unique motive. Unlike with the last book, I fully believed in Martin and Sofia's love. Individually, both these characters were strong, and while at times they butted heads, their cooperation made for a stronger love story than if she had been a simple damsel in distress with him riding fully to her rescue. While there was that aspect of a knight or champion to Martin (truly, most of this author's male characters possess this trait, and why not? We love them for that), Sofia was capable of assisting in that rescue. Their relationship had the growth, tension, steam, and partnership I've come to expect from this author. As always, the side characters had their own strengths, and I'm always happy to see an irrepressible "grande dame" make an appearance. After this book, I'm looking forward to reading the next!
February 1, 2023
It’s 1863, and yet another Cynster is off to find love.
This was not a bad book, but I found it very similar to previous books (Kit Cavanaugh’s for one) and the jump forward in time - a decade - was a tad frustrating. Martin was a typical Cynster, so nothing out of the ordinary there, but what did surprise me was that unlike nearly every other Cynster book there was no help from the wider family to solve the mystery. The family only rocked up for the big wedding. Sophy was your typical intelligent beautiful yet ‘not-like-every-other-girl’ character that seems to be the go to. I did like her, Martin too, however we never really see much beneath the surface of either character, so… 🤷🏻♀️
On the plus side, the mystery of the steel works was an interesting one, and it is nice to have new characters introduced that do something so we’re not relying on the protagonists for all the exposition.
This was not a bad book, but I found it very similar to previous books (Kit Cavanaugh’s for one) and the jump forward in time - a decade - was a tad frustrating. Martin was a typical Cynster, so nothing out of the ordinary there, but what did surprise me was that unlike nearly every other Cynster book there was no help from the wider family to solve the mystery. The family only rocked up for the big wedding. Sophy was your typical intelligent beautiful yet ‘not-like-every-other-girl’ character that seems to be the go to. I did like her, Martin too, however we never really see much beneath the surface of either character, so… 🤷🏻♀️
On the plus side, the mystery of the steel works was an interesting one, and it is nice to have new characters introduced that do something so we’re not relying on the protagonists for all the exposition.
October 4, 2022
The Time For Love takes place during the industrial revolution and features a romance/ partnership between 2 entrepreneurs. Martin is a dynamic and charming mogul with many business interests. Sophy is a smart and driven engineer with expertise in steel production. (In many ways, this book reminded me of Laurens' previous The Designs of Lord Randall Cavanaugh. ) They meet when Martin approaches Sophy about acquiring her business, but rapidly begin collaborating when an unidentified threat endangers both the factory and Sophy personally. The book's context - the explosion of new technology and business opportunities- is really interesting. The central mystery had a number of surprising twists and turns. The chemistry between the main characters was believable. Enjoyed it!
November 11, 2022
I enjoyed this book for the most part. I find it amusing that this new generation of Cynster men won't be intimate with their women until the women have accepted their proposals, whereas their fathers used intimacy to help convince their ladies to say yes.
Also another case of mistaken family identity. Sophia's aunt is called Cousin Julia by Sophia's cousin, but since the lady in question is definitely a paternal connection (Julia called Sophia's maternal grandmother by her title, so thus she has to be the sister of Sophia's father), this means that Julia would be Aunt Julia to Sophia's cousin too.
Yes, I know noticing this detail is OCD, but this is an area where my brand of OCD focuses upon.
Also another case of mistaken family identity. Sophia's aunt is called Cousin Julia by Sophia's cousin, but since the lady in question is definitely a paternal connection (Julia called Sophia's maternal grandmother by her title, so thus she has to be the sister of Sophia's father), this means that Julia would be Aunt Julia to Sophia's cousin too.
Yes, I know noticing this detail is OCD, but this is an area where my brand of OCD focuses upon.
March 21, 2023
Martin made the decision to leave his family and Country to start fresh in US. Through his years of struggle and patience he finally found a life for himself away from Cynster legend.
Coming back home, he knew manufacturing and industry was growing. Finding the right businesses to work together to improve safety.
Martin's businesses need one more piece which steel manufacturing. Learning of Carmichael Steel, he was durable to buy the business and have all the elements for product.
Meeting Sophy Carmichael, Martin realized he was looking at his future and knew he had to find a way to convince Sophy to became his wife and make his business one enterprise.
Coming back home, he knew manufacturing and industry was growing. Finding the right businesses to work together to improve safety.
Martin's businesses need one more piece which steel manufacturing. Learning of Carmichael Steel, he was durable to buy the business and have all the elements for product.
Meeting Sophy Carmichael, Martin realized he was looking at his future and knew he had to find a way to convince Sophy to became his wife and make his business one enterprise.
March 4, 2024
I loved Stephaine Laurens since I read Devil's Bride over 20 yrs ago. I have followed and got every book that she written. Her Cynsters my top favorite whenever asked named your favorite series.
I will admit that some I love, some were 'meh'. With a huge series like this that is to be expected. But never the less I still love her and the series.
That being said after reading The Lady By His Side with Sebastian Cynster, Marquess of Eairth & Antonia Rawlings (Devil's son and Chillingworth's daughter ) I could no longer go on. I was just so disappointed.
I envision something very different that what I got so when An Irresistible Alliance with Michael Cynster & Cleome Hendon (Devil's 2nd Son and Captain Jack's daughter ) i simply didn't get it.
Then a few years passed and I hadn't gotten any of her books. I'd lost interested.
Recently I've gotten into audible and some of her books were on sales. My favorites ones. So I decided to get them. Then because I did love the series, I decided to get to get them all. From March 2023 to Oct 2023 I listened to every single one. 70 books if your wondering.
And yes, some I love, some were 'meh' -- And I had to adjust form a Regency period to a Victoria period. And that there's a different style needed for the different time period.
Listening to the books awesome. Specially since I could remember what occurred in book X and how it might related to book X.
And it gave me a chance to fixed the one thing that really bothered me about SL books. She doesn't always write them in chronological order. Frustrating. I want a direct time line.
For example, this book takes place in 1862 - but the book that technically after this one takes place in 1855 Miss Prim and the Duke of Wylde and the epilogue is 7 years later (1 yr) after this book A Family of His Own with Tobby Cynster & Diana Locke set to come out March 2024.
This means that there 6 years that needs to be filled in and towards the middle end of Miss Prim and the Duke of Wylde there were plan statements Cousin X was engaged to X..... Well, give me those stories first, don't set up for a book 7 yrs later .
Since I took the time to listen to them all, I created a spreadsheet, with the couples, and listed chronological order. SL does post it on her own website but its a bit behind.
Only expectation of books being "out of order" is when its a flashback book. Especially, if its abouta beloved character.
IE: Sebastian Cynster, Duke of St. Ives & Helena, comtesse d'Lisle
I do wonder if she will do a generation during WWI - I can see that trying closing the original Bar Cystner. And I know its sad, and I don't want it but its time for the older generations to move on. Don't get me wrong I will bail like a baby at Helena's and Devil's death, but if the series continues on, key members will need to face their final fate.
I will continue to read/listen to the series because I love it. And my plan is when I am ancient and living in a retirement home I will spend my days listening to all my favorite series and books until I die.
For those who care or want it. Here's the list of all her books in chronological order. Since they sometimes intertwine its important to know them all.
1 The Promise in a Kiss 1783
2 Lady Osbaldestone's Christmas Goose 1810
3 Captain Jack's Woman 1811
4 Lady Osbaldestone And The Missing Christmas Carols 1811
5 Lady Osbaldestone's Plum Puddings 1812
6 Lady Osbaldestone's Christmas Intrigue 1813
7 The Lady Chosen 1816
8 A Gentleman's Honor 1816
9 A Lady of His Own 1816
10 A Fine Passion 1816
11 To Distraction 1816
12 Beyond Seduction 1816
13 The Edge of Desire 1816
14 Mastered By Love 1816
15 Devil's Bride 1818
16 A Rake's Vow 1819
17 Scandal's Bride 1819
18 A Rogue's Proposal 1820
19 A Secret Love 1820
20 All About Love 1820
21 All About Passion 1820
22 The Meaning of Love 1821
23 The Untamed Bride 1822
24 The Elusive Bride 1822
25 The Brazen Bride 1822
26 The Reckless Bride 1822
27 The Lady Risks All 1823
28 The Lady's Command 1824
29 A Buccaneer at Heart 1824
30 The Daredevil Snared 1824
31 Lord of the Privateers 1824
32 On a Wild Night 1825
33 On a Wicked Dawn 1825
34 The Ideal Bride 1825
35 Temptation and Surrender 1825
36 Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue 1829
37 In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster 1829
38 The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae 1829
39 The Truth About Love 1831
40 What Price Love? 1831
41 The Taste of Innocence 1833
42 Lost & Found 1834
43 The Perfect Lover 1834
44 Where the Heart Leads 1835
45 The Peculiar Case of Lord Finsbury's Diamonds 1836
46 And Then She Fell 1837
47 The Taming of Ryder Cavanaugh 1837
48 The Masterful Mr. Montague 1837
49 By Winter's Light 1837
50 The Curious Case of Lady Latimer's Shoes 1838
51 Loving Rose: The Redemption of Malcolm Sinclair 1838
52 The Confounding Case of the Carisbrook Emeralds 1839
53 The Murder at Mandeville Hall 1839
54 The Designs of Lord Randalph Cavanaugh 1843
55 The Pursuits of Lord Kit Cavanagh 1843
56 The Beguilement of Lady Eustacia Cavanaugh 1844
57 The Tempting of Thomas Carrick 1848
58 A Match for Marcus Cynster 1849
59 The Obsessions of Lord Godfrey Cavanaugh 1850
60 The Lady By His Side 1850
61 An Irresistible Alliance 1850
62 The Greatest Challenge of Them All 1850
63 A Conquest Impossible To Resist 1851
64 The Inevitable Fall of Christopher Cynster 1851
65 The Games Lovers Play 1851
66 The Secrets of Lord Grayson Child 1852
67 Foes, Friends, and Lovers 1852
68 Miss Flibbertigibbet and The Barbarian 1854
69 Miss Prim and the Duke of Wylde 1855
70 The Time for Love 1863
71 A Family of His Own
I will admit that some I love, some were 'meh'. With a huge series like this that is to be expected. But never the less I still love her and the series.
That being said after reading The Lady By His Side with Sebastian Cynster, Marquess of Eairth & Antonia Rawlings (Devil's son and Chillingworth's daughter ) I could no longer go on. I was just so disappointed.
I envision something very different that what I got so when An Irresistible Alliance with Michael Cynster & Cleome Hendon (Devil's 2nd Son and Captain Jack's daughter ) i simply didn't get it.
Then a few years passed and I hadn't gotten any of her books. I'd lost interested.
Recently I've gotten into audible and some of her books were on sales. My favorites ones. So I decided to get them. Then because I did love the series, I decided to get to get them all. From March 2023 to Oct 2023 I listened to every single one. 70 books if your wondering.
And yes, some I love, some were 'meh' -- And I had to adjust form a Regency period to a Victoria period. And that there's a different style needed for the different time period.
Listening to the books awesome. Specially since I could remember what occurred in book X and how it might related to book X.
And it gave me a chance to fixed the one thing that really bothered me about SL books. She doesn't always write them in chronological order. Frustrating. I want a direct time line.
For example, this book takes place in 1862 - but the book that technically after this one takes place in 1855 Miss Prim and the Duke of Wylde and the epilogue is 7 years later (1 yr) after this book A Family of His Own with Tobby Cynster & Diana Locke set to come out March 2024.
This means that there 6 years that needs to be filled in and towards the middle end of Miss Prim and the Duke of Wylde there were plan statements Cousin X was engaged to X..... Well, give me those stories first, don't set up for a book 7 yrs later .
Since I took the time to listen to them all, I created a spreadsheet, with the couples, and listed chronological order. SL does post it on her own website but its a bit behind.
Only expectation of books being "out of order" is when its a flashback book. Especially, if its abouta beloved character.
IE: Sebastian Cynster, Duke of St. Ives & Helena, comtesse d'Lisle
I do wonder if she will do a generation during WWI - I can see that trying closing the original Bar Cystner. And I know its sad, and I don't want it but its time for the older generations to move on. Don't get me wrong I will bail like a baby at Helena's and Devil's death, but if the series continues on, key members will need to face their final fate.
I will continue to read/listen to the series because I love it. And my plan is when I am ancient and living in a retirement home I will spend my days listening to all my favorite series and books until I die.
For those who care or want it. Here's the list of all her books in chronological order. Since they sometimes intertwine its important to know them all.
1 The Promise in a Kiss 1783
2 Lady Osbaldestone's Christmas Goose 1810
3 Captain Jack's Woman 1811
4 Lady Osbaldestone And The Missing Christmas Carols 1811
5 Lady Osbaldestone's Plum Puddings 1812
6 Lady Osbaldestone's Christmas Intrigue 1813
7 The Lady Chosen 1816
8 A Gentleman's Honor 1816
9 A Lady of His Own 1816
10 A Fine Passion 1816
11 To Distraction 1816
12 Beyond Seduction 1816
13 The Edge of Desire 1816
14 Mastered By Love 1816
15 Devil's Bride 1818
16 A Rake's Vow 1819
17 Scandal's Bride 1819
18 A Rogue's Proposal 1820
19 A Secret Love 1820
20 All About Love 1820
21 All About Passion 1820
22 The Meaning of Love 1821
23 The Untamed Bride 1822
24 The Elusive Bride 1822
25 The Brazen Bride 1822
26 The Reckless Bride 1822
27 The Lady Risks All 1823
28 The Lady's Command 1824
29 A Buccaneer at Heart 1824
30 The Daredevil Snared 1824
31 Lord of the Privateers 1824
32 On a Wild Night 1825
33 On a Wicked Dawn 1825
34 The Ideal Bride 1825
35 Temptation and Surrender 1825
36 Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue 1829
37 In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster 1829
38 The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae 1829
39 The Truth About Love 1831
40 What Price Love? 1831
41 The Taste of Innocence 1833
42 Lost & Found 1834
43 The Perfect Lover 1834
44 Where the Heart Leads 1835
45 The Peculiar Case of Lord Finsbury's Diamonds 1836
46 And Then She Fell 1837
47 The Taming of Ryder Cavanaugh 1837
48 The Masterful Mr. Montague 1837
49 By Winter's Light 1837
50 The Curious Case of Lady Latimer's Shoes 1838
51 Loving Rose: The Redemption of Malcolm Sinclair 1838
52 The Confounding Case of the Carisbrook Emeralds 1839
53 The Murder at Mandeville Hall 1839
54 The Designs of Lord Randalph Cavanaugh 1843
55 The Pursuits of Lord Kit Cavanagh 1843
56 The Beguilement of Lady Eustacia Cavanaugh 1844
57 The Tempting of Thomas Carrick 1848
58 A Match for Marcus Cynster 1849
59 The Obsessions of Lord Godfrey Cavanaugh 1850
60 The Lady By His Side 1850
61 An Irresistible Alliance 1850
62 The Greatest Challenge of Them All 1850
63 A Conquest Impossible To Resist 1851
64 The Inevitable Fall of Christopher Cynster 1851
65 The Games Lovers Play 1851
66 The Secrets of Lord Grayson Child 1852
67 Foes, Friends, and Lovers 1852
68 Miss Flibbertigibbet and The Barbarian 1854
69 Miss Prim and the Duke of Wylde 1855
70 The Time for Love 1863
71 A Family of His Own
August 22, 2022
I love returning and catching up with all the Cynster clan. This time it’s Martin and Sophie’s turn. The story is, instead of London, is set in Sheffield. Stephanie Laurens always writes a good book with a convoluted story to keep you interested. I love all her books but I have one gripe. I listen to her books and in reading this way, it’s really noticeable that she describes everything in triplets. Once I notice it I can’t “unhear” it and it gets incredibly annoying. This said, I enjoy her stories, I just try to tune this factor out.
October 20, 2022
slow start; good finish
I don’t usually review books by Stephanie Laurens because I always love them. Most of her books are like putting on a comfortable sweater. You know it will feel good, keep you warm and won’t let you down.
I had the hardest time starting this book. It didn’t feel comfortable until near the end of the first chapter. I only kept reading because I knew that it would worth it. I am not sure why her writing style was so different in the first chapter but I am happy that it returned to what is always is by the second chapter.
I don’t usually review books by Stephanie Laurens because I always love them. Most of her books are like putting on a comfortable sweater. You know it will feel good, keep you warm and won’t let you down.
I had the hardest time starting this book. It didn’t feel comfortable until near the end of the first chapter. I only kept reading because I knew that it would worth it. I am not sure why her writing style was so different in the first chapter but I am happy that it returned to what is always is by the second chapter.
April 11, 2024
May 1863. Marcus Cynster has spent the last 10 years accumulating a fortune, and expertise in business acquisitions. He has his sights on Carmichael Steelworks in Sheffield, but the head and majority owner of the company, Sophy Carmichael, isn't interested in selling. But someone wants Sophy out of the way, as there have been several accidents in the steelworks, and sabatage with suppliers. A kidnapping helps Sophy and Marcus figure out what's going on, and eventually leads them to who and why.
October 9, 2022
This is a Cynster Next Generation novel set in the 19th century. It is a historical romance incorporating adventure and intrigue around industrial business unusually set in Sheffield. Historical romances when set in the North are generally set in the North-West e.g. Manchester/Liverpool, occasionally West Yorks such as Bradford/Halifax so it's nice to read one set in Sheffield for once!
I really enjoyed this one!
I really enjoyed this one!
December 11, 2022
Loved It!!!
I enjoyed Martin and Sophy's story. I liked the intrigue and how they knew that they were perfect for each other. I love reading about the Cynsters and how the extended family comes up in her stories. I highly recommend this book and this author for a very enjoyable read. I love happier ever after endings and also the epilogue and would even love extended epi!ogues. Great story!
I enjoyed Martin and Sophy's story. I liked the intrigue and how they knew that they were perfect for each other. I love reading about the Cynsters and how the extended family comes up in her stories. I highly recommend this book and this author for a very enjoyable read. I love happier ever after endings and also the epilogue and would even love extended epi!ogues. Great story!
March 9, 2023
Sophy and Martin are perfect for each other. Fate was a friend and they saw it and worked toward their common goals. The only thing missing for me was the link to the family I love. I understand the direction but some connection a visit from his grandmother or parents but still a lovely story.
Time jump well handled.
Time jump well handled.
November 9, 2023
I guess I need a break from this series, though the audio format is much harder for me.
Martin's story. Martin is interested in buying a steel business. However, the steelwork's heiress is not interested in selling. Martin is intrigued by her and the mysterious accidents the factory is suffering.
Martin's story. Martin is interested in buying a steel business. However, the steelwork's heiress is not interested in selling. Martin is intrigued by her and the mysterious accidents the factory is suffering.
August 22, 2022
Another winning Cynster story.
Love how Stephanie always manages to give you a story with love and drama that keeps you guessing and not wanting to put the book down.
Martin's and Sophy's story was just that -- once I started, I could not stop reading.
Love how Stephanie always manages to give you a story with love and drama that keeps you guessing and not wanting to put the book down.
Martin's and Sophy's story was just that -- once I started, I could not stop reading.
March 3, 2023
The "Cynster Next Generation" series seems to have less "steam" in their romances, than their parents' series had. I enjoyed this one especially because it was set in a part of England and involved an industry that were new-to-me - that adds to the interest.
June 29, 2023
Story interesting. Listened to audiobook and Narrator's voices for the males was good, but Narrator voicing the female voices was not great - too namby pamby - did not work for women who were supposed to be strong and intelligent.
October 25, 2023
~3.5
Didn't really stick with me. Once again the story was more engaging than the romance. Once I started shifting my view of the new series to historical fiction with romance, it helped to enjoy a bit more.
Didn't really stick with me. Once again the story was more engaging than the romance. Once I started shifting my view of the new series to historical fiction with romance, it helped to enjoy a bit more.
December 26, 2024
just wonderful
I absolutely love reading Stephanie’s stories. And a long series is also an absolute favorite. While I don’t especially like jumps in time, I was very happy getting Martins story. Go read and start with devils bride
I absolutely love reading Stephanie’s stories. And a long series is also an absolute favorite. While I don’t especially like jumps in time, I was very happy getting Martins story. Go read and start with devils bride
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