The Fiery Vixen

Fate of the Worthingtons #3

by Laura A. Barnes

Sometimes one must spark the flame to ignite the hidden passion.

A fiery spinster. An irritating gentleman. One scandalous night filled with indulging in their desires.

Eden Worthington strode through the London ballrooms with the confidence of an independent lady. She didn’t believe in the foolish notion of soul mates, nor did she wish to fall victim to the Marriage Mart. Eden was perfectly content to live her life free from a husband’s demands and help her brother with his detective agency. She refused to allow the attraction of a certain infuriating gentleman to ruin her plans. No matter how much she craved his lips upon hers. However, after an evening spent in decadent sin with the irresistible marquess, Eden was powerless to resist her fate. Could Eden open her heart to the love within her grasp?

Victor Falcone wanted his freedom to be his own man, not one controlled by others. He spent the past few years redeeming for his sins. Now he only wanted to secure himself a bride to ease his loneliness. But first he must finish his final mission to destroy the villain terrorizing England. However, he found himself distracted by a lady who only ever snarled at him. A snarl he wished to kiss away. When Victor gave into the temptation of his desire for Eden, he discovered their hostility was really a hidden passion waiting to be explored. Could he put his arrogance to the side to show Eden how they are soul mates?

A lady who hides behind her snarls. A gentleman who uses his smirks to annoy. Would they forgo their differences to discover an untamed passion filled with undeniable love? Or would they continue to hold contempt for one another?

The Fiery Vixen is the third book in Laura A. Barnes’s Fate of the Worthingtons Series. If you love an enemies to lovers romance filled with swoon worthy scenes, then you’ll love Eden and Victor’s tempestuous courtship.

Enjoy The Fiery Vixen to fall in love with the Fate of the Worthingtons.

Genres: Historical

238 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 13, 2022

About the author

International bestselling author Laura A. Barnes fell in love with writing in the second grade. After her first creative writing assignment, she dreamt of becoming an author. Many years went by with Laura filling her head full of story ideas and some funny fish songs she wrote while fishing with her family. In 2017, she made her dreams a reality. With her debut novel Rescued By the Captain, she has set out on the path of a published author.​

When not writing, Laura can be found devouring her favorite romance books. Laura is married to her own Prince Charming (who for some reason or another thinks the heroes in her books are about him) who she enjoys traveling with and binging shows on streaming services. You can usually find her spending time with her children and grandchildren. Besides her love of reading and writing, Laura loves to travel. With her passport stamped in England, Scotland, and Ireland; she hopes to add more countries to her list soon.​

While Laura isn’t very good on the social media front, she loves to hear from her readers. You can find her on the following platforms:​

Website: http://www.lauraabarnes.com

Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/lauraabarnes ​

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLauraA...​

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labarnesaut...​

TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@labarnesauthor​

Twitter: https://twitter.com/labarnesauthor

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/laura...

Reviews

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading Laura A. Barnes books since 2019 and this is my 16th book by her and I can truthfully say I have really enjoyed every book I've read of hers. Great characters and great stories.

As with Book 1 and 2, I was given this book as an ARC read for an honest review

I really liked Book 1 a lot and TOTALLY LOVED book 2 but WOW there was something about this book that puts it up there as a top favorite!

I loved Eden and loved her and Falcone together but Falcone!! WOW!! How do I even start to describe him. There was just something about him!!! My God! The way Laura wrote him was utterly amazing. He just oozed sexuality on the page. He was unabashedly wicked. Many of the characters I read are proper lords in the day and super sexy behind closed doors but Falcone just naturally oozed it all day long, every situation. So well written. I don't think I've ever reacted to a character so much. I mean don't get me wrong, I have read many really hot, yummy characters. My favorite trope is the hot gaming hell owner falling in love with a Duke or Earl's daughter so definitely have read some hot characters in my day. BUT there was something about Falcone that just blew me away!!!

This was an awesome read but I would definitely recommend both books first just to make a more engaging experience. You will definitely not be disappointed. SO DAMN GOOD. Definitely worth more than 5 stars.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book has a lot going on. The Worthington family and their friends are still trying to put Lady Langdale and her gang behind bars. Eden works with the rest of the family to try and find information that will help. Most of the men working with her brother Graham she gets along with just fine. However, Victor Falcone is a thorn in her side. Every time they meet all they do is insult each other and argue. She snarls at him and he smirks at her. Neither likes the other or do they ? After one stolen kiss both start to wonder if their fighting is covering up other feeling ? When they have to work together many secrets will come out. While they try to figure out what's going on between them they are still
caught in the middle of the war between Lady Langdale and her goons. There is lots of intrigue, mystery
Passion, danger, and love and caring too. This is a very fast read as you can't put it down. So many secrets, hurts and sadness. But also, lots of family love, teasing and learning how love and hate can go hand and hand. What a read. I missed the first couple of books and am going back to read them.
I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Working Together . . .

Victor Falcone and Eden Worthington are strong characters who, at first glance, seem to dislike the other. But this reaction is a response to camouflage their actual feelings. Eden wants to be an independent young woman, not stuck under a man’s demanding ways. So she tries to ignore how the Marquess intrigues her. Victor has always played the part of a rake, but he is ready to settle down when he completes his final mission. So when they work together to capture the female criminal “Lady L”, their real desires and passions take over. Will they be willing to accept the love each feels and see where the future takes them?

The story line is one that will pull the reader in with the intrigue of their attempt to capture an elusive criminal. While working on their mission, the two begin to let their strong attraction come into play. How far will they take those feelings? And will a HEA be waiting for them when the mission ends?

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the series and to say I loved it is an understatement, I adored it. This is about Victor Falcone and Eden Worthington. They both are strong personalities and do not seem to like each other, but their real feelings are hidden. They are immensely attracted to each other. They are helping Eden’s family to bring a criminal to justice and in the process get closer. Their chemistry is amazing, their romance is amazing, this story is amazing, I can’t wait for the next book to be out. If you read the previous books in the series this is a continuation, and it will help you understand the criminal and why they all are trying to bring her to justice. I would recommend reading them because Eden and Falcone are both in the other books.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout and am leaving my honest opinion.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a whole lot of great reading in this book.
In this book one of the main characters is hard to figure is he a good guy or not? One thing you will know is that he has an attitude and is attracted to with Eden. Now Eden is attracted to him but does not trust him. This makes for an interesting pairing and story as they work together bringing some bad guys down. I really enjoy the book the characters were great their back and forth interactions kept me highly entertained. I am very happy to recommend this charmer. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.

[CATHERINE BURHANS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like the other stories in this series, this is so much more than a steamy love story! The continuing revengeful acts of the evil “ Lady L” steps up to full scale war in this latest offering. Although written as a stand alone novel, it would definitely be to the reader’s enjoyment to have partaken in what’s gone on before. The action is full blown and yet so is the passion between Eden and Falcone (Victor). She is a feisty, spirited one , who meets her match in the arrogant Falcone. She is all “Snarl” while he is all “Smirk” , and together they share such delightful dialogue and banter. The writing is superb, and I can’t wait for Graham to find his soulmate, and “Lady L “ to receive her comeuppance !

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victor, Lord Falcone owes a debt to a powerful Duke who could destroy him and all those he holds dear. Eden Worthington doesn't trust Victor one bit, but they need his help to bring Lady L to justice. Can they work together or will their mutual dislike destory the beginnings of an altogether unexpected attraction.

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

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Snipes and snarls are what Eden and Victor participate in constantly. Until a mission has their passion explode. Being undercover for Victor acting as a debauched gentleman is hard since he has feelings for Eden. He is not sure if she will forgive him. But taking down Lady L takes a lot of sacrifice. But Lady L is elusive and dangerous. Will they finally take her down? Will the love between Eden and Victor be enough once everything comes to a conclusion?

[Aineenmarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a very well-written story. I found it such an enjoyable plot that I couldn't put it down. I really cannot wait to read another story by this author.

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

[Theresa25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a great story. What brother would let his sister go to a masquerade party that was full of sin and depravity? Let alone with a man known for his decadent desires. When Eden is asked to attend the party with the worldly Marquess, will her hidden desires come out or will Victor change his mind and take her away from the party even though they need to flush out Lady L.

This story took you into the darker side of London and the people. The things Eden saw would make most young ladies blush, but Eden wasn’t most young ladies. And Victor wasn’t just any man. Their passion sizzled off the pages from the beginning. It was just a matter of when not if. But it was worth the wait. And do they finally take down Lady L, you will need to read the story to find out. It’s definitely worth reading. A big 5 stars.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, it is hard to believe but this story just keep getting better and better, there are so many surprises, unexpected turns and twist that keep you invested in following this series till the very end. Keep them coming!.

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

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Debauchery and deception! Victor Falcone has his own score to settle, both with Lady L and the Worthingtons. There are just two problems…he’s indebted to the Duke of Colebourne, who has assigned him to help Graham’s detective agency, and he is inexplicably drawn the Egan Worthington. Falcone’s mission is to return to his hedonistic ways in order to draw out information regarding Lady L. When Graham sends his sister Egan undercover to a depraved masquerade party, under the protection of Falcone, to see what can be learned, things get a bit out of hand. The other stories in this series are steamy, but this one is much more physically oriented and explicit. Throughtout, Falcone and Egan struggle with their feelings, he to keep them hidden and she to get past her fear. In the meantime, no matter what they plan, Lady L seems to be one step ahead of them. The mistress of manipulation engages in blackmail, arson, beatings and murder to get her revenge on the ton in general, and the Worthingtons in specific. Each story has had an undercurrent of danger, but when everything comes to a head in this one….wow! It takes a creative mind and an active imagination to write a series like this, and this particular book has us primed for the fourth, and I suspect final, installment….something for which I impatiently wait!.

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

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

This is the third book in this series and I was a bit lost, I would have been better off starting at the beginning of the series. There was already a lot of subtext/backstory running that I didn't understand. It continued through the book with only occasional hints to the past to aid me.

Our hero, Lord (Victor) Falcone, and heroine, Lady Eden Worthington, were fun and entertaining. They had a rapid fire banter with some sarcasm and irreverence that had me smiling. They act like enemies, but each is carrying a torch for the other. When they finally start to work together and allow the other in, things heat up.

One big undercurrent was a villainous woman, Lady L., who was manipulating it seems like everyone in the book. She caused countless problems and acts of evil, but I am not completely sure why. It was just a giant lie-fest that seemed to involve all the characters to some degree or other.

I gave it the rating of 3.5 Stars because I liked the H & H, once they stopped acting like enemies and came to appreciate each other and what each brought to the partnership. The heat was good, but I wouldn't be able to recommend it to my mom.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.

[Susan Liberty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fiery Vixen by Laura A. Barnes is off-the-charts excellent.

I read the first two novels in the Fate of the Worthingtons Series and loved them. With that said, The Fiery Vixen is my favorite thus far. I adore Eden Worthington’s sassy personality. And who wouldn’t love Victor Falcone—the handsome growling duke.
Thank goodness, all the characters from books one and two were in book three, including the villainous Lady Langdale and the evil mother, Lady Ravencroft! But, no, they haven’t been caught yet.

Given the debauchery at the masquerade ball, I was surprised Graham and Worth sent Eden to help snare Lady Langdale. But I’m glad they did (spoiler alert, so I won’t tell), but it was GOOD! Eden is a strong, vivacious heroine; she saved the day.

So, needless to say, the plot, characters, and scenes are fabulously crafted. In addition, the romantic scenes are tastefully written—four out of five on the spice meter. Five stars.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2*STARS*
Victor Falcone has left his wicked ways behind, or so he thought. The Duke of Colebourne has other ideas. He needs his help to stop Lady Langdale and her group of thugs from taking over London. Made up of theives and murderers, she's not above using blackmail and violence to get what she wants. Eden Worthington is determined to help in her brother's investigation to stop Lady Langdale. Falcone is her escort to a masquerade ball. This is no ordinary masquerade ball. Eden's eyes are opened to depravity she's never seen before. Seduced by the man she desires, Falcone wants more than an affair. He wants her for his wife, except he has two parts to play. The old Falcone to trap Lady Langdale and the honorable man worthy of Eden's love.
Heat level 5🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[madtrekkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eden loathes Victor, and Victor loves antagonizing her. It's a love/hate relationship. Until they do fall in love. Finally!! I loved how everyone could see it and just gently pushed them together. It's not easy though as Eden is not going to acknowledge her feelings! Victor was a rake and changed his ways after tragedy. The tragedy leaves him in debt to a Duke - which he bitterly resents.

I really enjoyed reading this engaging, entertaining story and its become a favourite. The story is well written, fast paced with lots of bantering and 'vixen' like behaviour! I love the closeness of Eden and her family and friends. The relationships really gave her character slot of depth!
There's an epilogue and a HEA!.

[FD · Rating 4 out of 5]

A steamy, suspenseful story, written in an attractive writing style. Because I haven't read the previous books in this series, It was a bit difficult to get in the story and to follow it, I think it's more fun if you do read this series in order, but even so I enjoyed the story. The two main characters Victor Falcone and Eden are not the easiest people, but they are evenly matched. Sometimes I wasn't sure whether I liked them or not. The story also shows the seamy side of life, in the hunt for a notorious criminal.

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

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victor Falcone and Eden Worthington have a sort of love/hate relationship. In this story, they team up in a plan to finally catch Lady L. During their time together, their attraction comes to light. They are very much alike, independent, strong-willed, wary. Their story is filled with secrets, suspense, danger, intrigue, and a sizzling romance. The third story in the Fate of the Worthingtons series is a well-written page turner with interesting circumstances and characters. Unfortunately, Lady L and some of her cohorts are still on the loose. What’s next? Great read! I recommend this story and the series.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in the Fate of the Worthingtons series. Eden Worthington and marquess Victor Falcone's story is well written about two people who are keeping secrets from each other. There is drama, suspense, danger, a villain and romance. I want to read the next book. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Autumn Sevier · Rating 3 out of 5]

definately more interesting And fiery than the previous entry , i feel like the author better told the characters at least in terms of the main couple vs the last and its reliance on the previous book , i look forward to the next hopefully finishing the ongoing plot that has been in these books and will start that next , these are pretty quick reads which is nice in its own way.

[Heather W · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fiery Vixen is the third book in the Fate of the Worthingtons series. I loved this historical romance. The characters are strong and belong together. The story captured my interest from start to finish.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amusing and romantic story that is full of mystery, suspense and romance. The main characters are entertaining and determined. The ending is full of twists and thrills that you don't see coming. It captured my interest from the very beginning, and kept it all the way through.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was non stop perfection. It was intriguing and captivating. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.

[Linda · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another cliffhanger, but a good storyline.