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The Lyon's Den Connected World
The Heart of a Lyon
Enter the world of the most notorious gambling den in London, where matches are made... unusually. Welcome to the world of THE LYON'S DEN: The Black Widow of Whitehall Connected World, where the underground of Regency London thrives... and loves.
She needs a miracle to save her, but he refuses to consider marriage, until a pretend betrothal changes how he sees her.
Riddled with guilt and haunted by nightmares over the tragic death of his father, Henry Stanton, the Earl of Egerton, returns home a broken man and seeks solace in the excesses of the Lyon’s Den. He’s sworn to never marry, but a chance meeting with the woman who captured his heart over a decade ago forces him to rethink his decision. Unwillingness to change his mind may prevent him from discovering what his heart and soul needs most.
Lady Olivia Dawson wants a love match, but her family’s financial ruin upends her perfect life and worse, the vile man who holds her family’s fortune demands her hand. When she meets the childhood friend she’s never forgotten, she realizes he’s everything she’s wants.
A mother desperate to save her daughter’s future appeals to the Black Widow of Whitehall who spins a web of hearts, high stakes bets, and intrigue—but the widow’s plan places Olivia’s life in the path of a killer.
Henry and Olivia’s futures will hang in the balance, unless they can find a way to trust one another with their lives and hearts.
She needs a miracle to save her, but he refuses to consider marriage, until a pretend betrothal changes how he sees her.
Riddled with guilt and haunted by nightmares over the tragic death of his father, Henry Stanton, the Earl of Egerton, returns home a broken man and seeks solace in the excesses of the Lyon’s Den. He’s sworn to never marry, but a chance meeting with the woman who captured his heart over a decade ago forces him to rethink his decision. Unwillingness to change his mind may prevent him from discovering what his heart and soul needs most.
Lady Olivia Dawson wants a love match, but her family’s financial ruin upends her perfect life and worse, the vile man who holds her family’s fortune demands her hand. When she meets the childhood friend she’s never forgotten, she realizes he’s everything she’s wants.
A mother desperate to save her daughter’s future appeals to the Black Widow of Whitehall who spins a web of hearts, high stakes bets, and intrigue—but the widow’s plan places Olivia’s life in the path of a killer.
Henry and Olivia’s futures will hang in the balance, unless they can find a way to trust one another with their lives and hearts.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2022
118 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Anna St. Claire
59 books230 followersWho knew I’d become an author? Not me. But when the opportunity knocked, I answered the door and welcomed it in. I approach life with as much positivity as I can—celebrating the hits and laughing at the misses. Nothing worthwhile is easy, and that includes everything in my life. But I have much to smile about—my lovely mother, a beautiful daughter, two precious granddaughters, my adorable dogs, and my sweet husband of over thirty years. He has always supported me—including uprooting to move to the other side of Charlotte, N.C. for a life change, just when we thought we were settled.
If settled means not going after my dreams, then I never want to be settled. I give my all to things I enjoy—and that includes writing. In 2021, I hit the USA Today Bestselling Author list, and recently, two of my books were named RONE Finalists!
I love to express myself to the point that my daughter avoids going to the movies with me because I’m that woman in the row in front of you who gleefully munches her popcorn and laughs at every hilarious scene. Loudly. Besides my family, I love chocolate, popcorn, laughter, and animals. I love animals so much that I frequently sprinkle them in my stories as secondary characters. They usually steal the show! British and American history have always interested me, so writing historical romances set in the U.K. and the US is where my passion is.
When I was barely three years old, my parents divorced, and my mom moved my sister and me from New York to South Carolina to live near her parents. Juggling a full-time job and full-time school, my mother became my first genuine hero—she never waved the white flag when things were tough. And things quickly got tough. My grandmother, who helped care for my sister and me while my mother worked, became ill with cancer, and didn’t survive the surgery, dying before I was seven. Losing Grandma devastated me. She read to me and taught me to read before I started first grade. I credit her for inspiring my love of reading, and I credit my mother for encouraging me to turn my ideas into stories.
When I was ten, my neighbor gave me her book club copy of Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind and it remains one of my favorite books. But it was Kathleen Woodiwiss’ Shanna and Ashes in the Wind, that hooked me on historical romance and sparked my dream of becoming a published author.
While I primarily write Regency Romance, I enjoy almost any period in American and British history.
I love hearing from readers. To get in touch, email me at annastclaireauthor@gmail.com.
To keep up to date on my new releases, special promotions, contests, giveaways, and more, sign up for my newsletter by clicking here.
You can also follow me on BookBub, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
If settled means not going after my dreams, then I never want to be settled. I give my all to things I enjoy—and that includes writing. In 2021, I hit the USA Today Bestselling Author list, and recently, two of my books were named RONE Finalists!
I love to express myself to the point that my daughter avoids going to the movies with me because I’m that woman in the row in front of you who gleefully munches her popcorn and laughs at every hilarious scene. Loudly. Besides my family, I love chocolate, popcorn, laughter, and animals. I love animals so much that I frequently sprinkle them in my stories as secondary characters. They usually steal the show! British and American history have always interested me, so writing historical romances set in the U.K. and the US is where my passion is.
When I was barely three years old, my parents divorced, and my mom moved my sister and me from New York to South Carolina to live near her parents. Juggling a full-time job and full-time school, my mother became my first genuine hero—she never waved the white flag when things were tough. And things quickly got tough. My grandmother, who helped care for my sister and me while my mother worked, became ill with cancer, and didn’t survive the surgery, dying before I was seven. Losing Grandma devastated me. She read to me and taught me to read before I started first grade. I credit her for inspiring my love of reading, and I credit my mother for encouraging me to turn my ideas into stories.
When I was ten, my neighbor gave me her book club copy of Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind and it remains one of my favorite books. But it was Kathleen Woodiwiss’ Shanna and Ashes in the Wind, that hooked me on historical romance and sparked my dream of becoming a published author.
While I primarily write Regency Romance, I enjoy almost any period in American and British history.
I love hearing from readers. To get in touch, email me at annastclaireauthor@gmail.com.
To keep up to date on my new releases, special promotions, contests, giveaways, and more, sign up for my newsletter by clicking here.
You can also follow me on BookBub, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
October 11, 2022
4.5 Stars
Riddled with guilt and haunted by nightmares over the tragic death of his father, Henry Stanton, the Earl of Egerton, returns home and seeks solace in the excesses of the Lyon’s Den. He’s sworn to never marryas who would endure his nightmares. Lady Olivia Dawson wants a love match, but her family’s financial ruin upends her perfect life and worse, the vile man who holds her family’s fortune demands her hand. When she meets the childhood friend she’s never forgotten, she realizes he’s everything she’s wants. A mother desperate to save her daughter’s future appeals to the Black Widow of Whitehall who spins a web of hearts, high stakes bets, and intrigue—but the widow’s plan places Olivia’s life in the path of a killer.
I was drawn into this book from the first page & was left satisfied a few hours later when I finished it. I loved Henry & all the Stantons, it was lovely to have a loving, caring family who stood together & mourned their father, I hope the author has books planned for the other siblings! Whilst I really liked Livy I felt her character wasn’t as developed as Henry's. I did however like the chemistry between the pair & how their feelings changed & grew. I loved the mystery & was kept glued to my kindle. A well written engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Riddled with guilt and haunted by nightmares over the tragic death of his father, Henry Stanton, the Earl of Egerton, returns home and seeks solace in the excesses of the Lyon’s Den. He’s sworn to never marryas who would endure his nightmares. Lady Olivia Dawson wants a love match, but her family’s financial ruin upends her perfect life and worse, the vile man who holds her family’s fortune demands her hand. When she meets the childhood friend she’s never forgotten, she realizes he’s everything she’s wants. A mother desperate to save her daughter’s future appeals to the Black Widow of Whitehall who spins a web of hearts, high stakes bets, and intrigue—but the widow’s plan places Olivia’s life in the path of a killer.
I was drawn into this book from the first page & was left satisfied a few hours later when I finished it. I loved Henry & all the Stantons, it was lovely to have a loving, caring family who stood together & mourned their father, I hope the author has books planned for the other siblings! Whilst I really liked Livy I felt her character wasn’t as developed as Henry's. I did however like the chemistry between the pair & how their feelings changed & grew. I loved the mystery & was kept glued to my kindle. A well written engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 12, 2022
Part of the Lyon's Den series by multiple authors, I am always intrigued by the way in which each author brings their own flavor to the collection, whilst incorporating the main character, namely The Black Widow of Whitehall. This book opens on an incredibly dramatic note as the Earl of Egerton and his adopted brother watch their father die before their eyes. For a while, life spirals out of control for Henry, until he arrives home after a night of drunken gambling and finds his older brother gasping for breath after an attempted poisoning and stabbing. Keeping the desperate health of the Duke of Kendall under wraps, Henry and Robert set out to investigate who was responsible for the crime. This brings them into the orbit of the Dawson family only to find that their problems have become intertwined with the Stanton's difficulties. Thomas has no intention of marrying until such time as he can overcome the effects of the war, but when the only solution to Olivia's particular plight is a fake engagement, at the behest of the Black Widow, Henry finds that he cannot completely ignore the feelings he has for his childhood friend. Danger has a strange way of bringing out one's deepest feelings, and when Henry realizes that he is at risk of losing Olivia, he and his brother allow nothing to stop them in their bid to rescue her. The novel comes to a successful conclusion with the perpetrators of crimes receiving their just rewards and Henry finds his heart safe in Olivia's hands. I received a copy of this fast-paced and exciting book as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 5, 2023
Rating: 3.5/5.0
When a lady needs a hero, Henry Stanton is the man to save her.
Read full review in the 2023 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
When a lady needs a hero, Henry Stanton is the man to save her.
Read full review in the 2023 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 20, 2022
Drinking and gambling don't mix. Henry Stanton, Earl of Edgerton, has a hard time fighting his demons. He carries the nightmare of his father's death and the death of men in battles against Napoleon. Lord Langdon is a villain who cheats for power. Obtaining Lord Southwood's vowels by cheating, he demands Southwoods' daughter, Olivia, will marry him and no one else. Henry Stanton, grew up with Olivia. He doesn't like Langdon and is willing to have a fake engagement with Olivia to protect her. This engagement is orchestrated by Henry's mother and Mrs Dove-Lyon. Although Olivia already loves Henry, he isn't so sure. When Olivia's life is in danger, Henry has no choice when his heart tells him he must come to her rescue. Mrs. Dove-Lyon has only a small part in manipulating the circumstances in this book.
Kissing only. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Kissing only. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
October 14, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Another visit to Bessie’s Den .
Another Lyon of her choosing wins a bride, and saves a reputation or a life by entering the parsons knot.
I love this series so much, I’m a total addict.
This is a great story with so much chemistry once the happy couple sort themselves out.
Bessie is on form, the games about to begin.
Henry and Olivia take their lives in their hands, and now have to evade a killer as well as arrange their future.
Relax and enjoy.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Another visit to Bessie’s Den .
Another Lyon of her choosing wins a bride, and saves a reputation or a life by entering the parsons knot.
I love this series so much, I’m a total addict.
This is a great story with so much chemistry once the happy couple sort themselves out.
Bessie is on form, the games about to begin.
Henry and Olivia take their lives in their hands, and now have to evade a killer as well as arrange their future.
Relax and enjoy.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
October 7, 2022
3.5 stars
I didn't really feel I got to know the heroine. There was lots of interaction betweem ther hero, his adopted brother and his mother. There also was lots of back story for the hero. A lot of the action seemed to be off screen and then reported. Why were we told that the mother hid the key to her secret letters in the bureau.? A point was made that only the family knew this but this fact wasn't needed in the rest of the story. I wonder if as well as a Lyon book it's part of another series that we might have been aware of?
The villainous lord doesn't seem to get his comeupance over his cheating. I also didn't see why Olivia's father owed the hero's family money if they had gained the vows back through the game of chance? Why not just hand them back. I could see Bessie might have needed a cut for helping them out.
It wasn't a bad read but I thought there were so many themes going on. For me the heroine's character apart from being a paragon seemed to get lost in the mix.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I didn't really feel I got to know the heroine. There was lots of interaction betweem ther hero, his adopted brother and his mother. There also was lots of back story for the hero. A lot of the action seemed to be off screen and then reported. Why were we told that the mother hid the key to her secret letters in the bureau.? A point was made that only the family knew this but this fact wasn't needed in the rest of the story. I wonder if as well as a Lyon book it's part of another series that we might have been aware of?
The villainous lord doesn't seem to get his comeupance over his cheating. I also didn't see why Olivia's father owed the hero's family money if they had gained the vows back through the game of chance? Why not just hand them back. I could see Bessie might have needed a cut for helping them out.
It wasn't a bad read but I thought there were so many themes going on. For me the heroine's character apart from being a paragon seemed to get lost in the mix.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 7, 2022
This story is addictive. It grabs you and keeps you enthralled from start to finish. You will run throughout London from salons to graveyards in this thrilling mystery romance.
Lord Henry Stanton, Earl of Egerton, has return from fighting the French Napoleon.wars and Waterloo. Finding his father to welcome him home on the ship is surprisingly warm knowing he can not swim but wanted to be there for his sons. His adopted brother Roger and him are greatful. Only to lose their father to rebels and a cannon ball to the ship. Now with the guilt of his death, Lord Henry goes on a downward spiral of drinking and gambling. When his older brother is hurt this gives Lord Henry a reason to turn things around as family is everything.
Lady Olivia Dawson, a lovely daughter of a family friend to the Stanton's, finds herself in a predicament of her father's making. After overhearing an argument of her parents. She is unsure how to help out and finds herself wanting to assure her parents she will do what she can. Only to get told all will be well.
As it happens the two stories get linked by a common foe.
How you ask. Well, enter the Lyons Den where fortunes are won, loss, and traded by all.
Can the two pull of the coup to rid the evil foe of his victory or will they lose all? Will the Black Widow earn another match to her credit, she is famous for? How will these two bring the twist and turns of the plot to their side? Find out when you read this masterfully crafted suspense with enough romance to brighten you day.
Lord Henry Stanton, Earl of Egerton, has return from fighting the French Napoleon.wars and Waterloo. Finding his father to welcome him home on the ship is surprisingly warm knowing he can not swim but wanted to be there for his sons. His adopted brother Roger and him are greatful. Only to lose their father to rebels and a cannon ball to the ship. Now with the guilt of his death, Lord Henry goes on a downward spiral of drinking and gambling. When his older brother is hurt this gives Lord Henry a reason to turn things around as family is everything.
Lady Olivia Dawson, a lovely daughter of a family friend to the Stanton's, finds herself in a predicament of her father's making. After overhearing an argument of her parents. She is unsure how to help out and finds herself wanting to assure her parents she will do what she can. Only to get told all will be well.
As it happens the two stories get linked by a common foe.
How you ask. Well, enter the Lyons Den where fortunes are won, loss, and traded by all.
Can the two pull of the coup to rid the evil foe of his victory or will they lose all? Will the Black Widow earn another match to her credit, she is famous for? How will these two bring the twist and turns of the plot to their side? Find out when you read this masterfully crafted suspense with enough romance to brighten you day.
October 14, 2022
4.5 stars
Well as always it is a riveting tale where wagers are made and hearts are engaged!
Olivia Aka Livy is young but as her parents only child she is wiser than many 18 year old but of course sheltered!
Henry had lost his way after the death of his father feeling he was to blame!
His guilt led to drinking and gambling all in the Lyons’s den!
Henry is not aware that his mother is friends with Bessie Lyon and they have definitely conspired not so much against him but for his good!
When Henry brother is harmed he steps up and becomes the man he should have been and also takes interest in Livy who is also his neighbor and childhood friend!
When Livy father acts foolishly and endangers her Henry steps up to be the man anyone would be proud of!
Livy wants what’s happening to be real but Henry is afraid to commit!
But when danger comes calling the answer just makes for be on the Lyons den! Bravo!
Well as always it is a riveting tale where wagers are made and hearts are engaged!
Olivia Aka Livy is young but as her parents only child she is wiser than many 18 year old but of course sheltered!
Henry had lost his way after the death of his father feeling he was to blame!
His guilt led to drinking and gambling all in the Lyons’s den!
Henry is not aware that his mother is friends with Bessie Lyon and they have definitely conspired not so much against him but for his good!
When Henry brother is harmed he steps up and becomes the man he should have been and also takes interest in Livy who is also his neighbor and childhood friend!
When Livy father acts foolishly and endangers her Henry steps up to be the man anyone would be proud of!
Livy wants what’s happening to be real but Henry is afraid to commit!
But when danger comes calling the answer just makes for be on the Lyons den! Bravo!
October 13, 2022
Reaction
I loved this story! It starts off with a tragedy at sea and then moves to London. Henry frequents the Lyon's Den but manages to avoid the matrimonial bets. At least that's what he thinks until old family friends fall on hard times due to husband's gambling. Henry decides to help the daughter since Lord Langdon is trying to blackmail the man into offering his daughter as trade off to pay his debts. Little does he know he's been manipulated by 3 strong willed women to protect the daughter. The manipulation of the women is very well played out. Truly a well written book.
I loved this story! It starts off with a tragedy at sea and then moves to London. Henry frequents the Lyon's Den but manages to avoid the matrimonial bets. At least that's what he thinks until old family friends fall on hard times due to husband's gambling. Henry decides to help the daughter since Lord Langdon is trying to blackmail the man into offering his daughter as trade off to pay his debts. Little does he know he's been manipulated by 3 strong willed women to protect the daughter. The manipulation of the women is very well played out. Truly a well written book.
October 14, 2022
Filled with danger, mystery, wonderful characters and a cat named Salem bring this wonderful addition to this series full circle!
Having not seen each other seen childhood, Henry and Olivia's paths cross again at just the right time!
He has been suffering at the loss of his father and the nightmares he still has from the war. The Lyon's Den has been a refuge to drink and gamble.
She is trying to escape the clutches of a terrible man, who her father owes a lot of debt, so is desperate.
When a fake engagement ensues, who knows what will happen! Anna always creates stories that you cannot put down and you can only smile as you turn the last page!!
Having not seen each other seen childhood, Henry and Olivia's paths cross again at just the right time!
He has been suffering at the loss of his father and the nightmares he still has from the war. The Lyon's Den has been a refuge to drink and gamble.
She is trying to escape the clutches of a terrible man, who her father owes a lot of debt, so is desperate.
When a fake engagement ensues, who knows what will happen! Anna always creates stories that you cannot put down and you can only smile as you turn the last page!!
October 9, 2022
Great book with lots of mystery, intrigue and tangled webs! The chemistry between Lady Olivia Dawson and Lord Henry Stanton, the Earl of Egerton, is unmistakable from the very start. It truly was inevitable that they would have a happily ever after, but just to make certain, there were a lot of people scheming them together!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 15, 2022
beautiful
I have loved every one of the Lyon’s Den stories. This is a beautiful story with tons of dialogue. The characters are all interesting and well developed. I felt like I had a new glimpse into Bessie Dove-Lyon. Roger, the adopted son of a duke, is a wonderful character. Humorous and compassionate. Henry has war wounds. Lady Olivia could be just the gal he needs.
I was a little bereft at the end but revived by the beautiful epilogue!
I have loved every one of the Lyon’s Den stories. This is a beautiful story with tons of dialogue. The characters are all interesting and well developed. I felt like I had a new glimpse into Bessie Dove-Lyon. Roger, the adopted son of a duke, is a wonderful character. Humorous and compassionate. Henry has war wounds. Lady Olivia could be just the gal he needs.
I was a little bereft at the end but revived by the beautiful epilogue!
March 7, 2024
Problems plague their growing love. But it helps to have wonderful siblings and parents as well as good friends in high and low places. No villain can withstand assault from several fronts. Wonderful read from start to finish. Looking forward to the next in series!
I received an ARC from Netgalley and leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC from Netgalley and leaving my review voluntarily.
October 9, 2022
A lovely and engaging story and I enjoyed the romance that built between Henry and Olivia. A pretend betrothal that changes everything, second chances and a little drama lead to a wonderful happy conclusion.
October 14, 2022
Another fun Lyons Den tale
Plenty of adventure for Livy and Henry as they move from faux engagement to happily married. This could easily evolve into a longer story and wonderful secondary characters.
Plenty of adventure for Livy and Henry as they move from faux engagement to happily married. This could easily evolve into a longer story and wonderful secondary characters.
November 11, 2022
A lovely story with Henry and Olivia. I love all the Lyon's Den stories, there is always an answer to the problem, and Mrs Dove Lyon always comes up with it. I love it when she meddles.
Good characters and plot. 4☆
Good characters and plot. 4☆
October 15, 2022
Great Read
A fast paced Lyon’s Den read. The story line was fun and intriguingly filled with mystery attempted murder, kidnapping and a HEA.
A fast paced Lyon’s Den read. The story line was fun and intriguingly filled with mystery attempted murder, kidnapping and a HEA.
May 13, 2023
Enter the world of the most notorious gambling den in London, where matches are made... unusually. Welcome to the world of THE LYON'S DEN: The Black Widow of Whitehall Connected World, where the underground of Regency London thrives... and loves.
If you haven’t read any of the books in The Lyon’s Den interconnected world get ready to enjoy a unique romance set in the Regency era but TOTALLY unlike a typical Regency book. Think of these books as “the marriage-mart gone rogue” and get ready for shenanigans and happily ever afters.
I found this story to be entertaining with likable characters and an intriguing plot. The story moves along at a steady pace and the ending ties up all the loose ends nicely, leaving the reader satisfied. I would gladly read more books from this author. I absolutely love the creative covers from this publisher! If you look closely the covers are always full of easter eggs that always make sense once the story is finished.
Can I also just say that I LOVED the childhood friends to adult lovers trope that is masterfully blended with a fake relationship to real love trope! The chemistry between these characters was pretty hot ❤️🔥❤️ and I couldn’t wait for them to overcome all the obstacles and plotting - to get their well deserved HEA
4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from the author/publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are usually cross-posted to social media, goodreads, Bookbub, and blog. 🦄
If you haven’t read any of the books in The Lyon’s Den interconnected world get ready to enjoy a unique romance set in the Regency era but TOTALLY unlike a typical Regency book. Think of these books as “the marriage-mart gone rogue” and get ready for shenanigans and happily ever afters.
I found this story to be entertaining with likable characters and an intriguing plot. The story moves along at a steady pace and the ending ties up all the loose ends nicely, leaving the reader satisfied. I would gladly read more books from this author. I absolutely love the creative covers from this publisher! If you look closely the covers are always full of easter eggs that always make sense once the story is finished.
Can I also just say that I LOVED the childhood friends to adult lovers trope that is masterfully blended with a fake relationship to real love trope! The chemistry between these characters was pretty hot ❤️🔥❤️ and I couldn’t wait for them to overcome all the obstacles and plotting - to get their well deserved HEA
4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from the author/publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are usually cross-posted to social media, goodreads, Bookbub, and blog. 🦄
October 14, 2022
3.75 STARS
This is a very unique series with so many different authors' contributing their version of the Lyon's Den. They're all stand alone stories with the common thread of the gambling den ran by Mrs Dove-Lyon. I've read some of the previous reviews and I can see if you are not familiar with this series, you're wondering about the owner of the gambling den. She IS the series - like the icing on a cake.
I liked this authors take on Mrs Dove-Lyon because it was a mix of the gambling den and her matchmaking.
I felt the H did all he could in the opening with his father and it wasn't like he hesitated. Also, what lowered my rating, no one made the h's father accountable nor put anything in place that he couldn't get them in a fix again. The H/h were childhood friends and when they meet up again, neither recognizes the other?
Clean story with only kisses. I hope this author writes about the brother Roger. Interesting secondary character's. Near the end I felt parts felt rushed to get everything wrapped up.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance, bad villains, clean and a sweet epilogue. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to help you decide to purchase or not. (ljb)
This is a very unique series with so many different authors' contributing their version of the Lyon's Den. They're all stand alone stories with the common thread of the gambling den ran by Mrs Dove-Lyon. I've read some of the previous reviews and I can see if you are not familiar with this series, you're wondering about the owner of the gambling den. She IS the series - like the icing on a cake.
I liked this authors take on Mrs Dove-Lyon because it was a mix of the gambling den and her matchmaking.
I felt the H did all he could in the opening with his father and it wasn't like he hesitated. Also, what lowered my rating, no one made the h's father accountable nor put anything in place that he couldn't get them in a fix again. The H/h were childhood friends and when they meet up again, neither recognizes the other?
Clean story with only kisses. I hope this author writes about the brother Roger. Interesting secondary character's. Near the end I felt parts felt rushed to get everything wrapped up.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance, bad villains, clean and a sweet epilogue. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to help you decide to purchase or not. (ljb)
October 9, 2022
Amongst evil doers and a savage murderer, a sweet romance emerges and grows. Henry, is the Earl of Egerton, struggling with nightmares of war and the death of his Father, the Duke. But Henry is a kind and caring man, and when he learns of his childhood friend, Olivia (Livy) being threatened into marriage to an evil scoundrel because of her father’s gambling debts, he rushes to her rescue. He proposes a fake engagement to protect her, but Livy wants so much more! Henry makes for a wonderful book boyfriend, and their courtship is sweet and heartwarming.
October 10, 2022
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I know I have said this in my reviews of other Lyon's Den books, but I feel it can be said again - this series is one of the most creative ones out there. I love how each author brings their own spin the core concept. The last few, Heart of a Lyon included, have moved away from the crazy wagers and more into classic matchmaking. The story opens on a somewhat sad note with the loss of Henry's father. It stays in a dark mode through the attack on Albert and Livy's father's big losses at the gambling tables. Things brighten up once Henry and Livy are reunited as adults - I liked that they had known one another when they were younger because there was already a foundation for their romance. Having the fake engagement known by both of their families also avoided them having to lie to anyone other than Langdon. I'm not sure I completely understood Victoria's plans, but it added an extra layer of intrigue to the story and ultimately gave Henry the push he needed to admit to himself (and others how he really felt towards Livy. I would love to get Roger's story in another book, especially now that he has adopted two orphans.
I know I have said this in my reviews of other Lyon's Den books, but I feel it can be said again - this series is one of the most creative ones out there. I love how each author brings their own spin the core concept. The last few, Heart of a Lyon included, have moved away from the crazy wagers and more into classic matchmaking. The story opens on a somewhat sad note with the loss of Henry's father. It stays in a dark mode through the attack on Albert and Livy's father's big losses at the gambling tables. Things brighten up once Henry and Livy are reunited as adults - I liked that they had known one another when they were younger because there was already a foundation for their romance. Having the fake engagement known by both of their families also avoided them having to lie to anyone other than Langdon. I'm not sure I completely understood Victoria's plans, but it added an extra layer of intrigue to the story and ultimately gave Henry the push he needed to admit to himself (and others how he really felt towards Livy. I would love to get Roger's story in another book, especially now that he has adopted two orphans.
March 26, 2023
Longer than a typical Lyon's Den book, but so good. Love Livy and Henry, and their HEA.
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October 9, 2022A sweet charming romance with a bit of intrigue and a kidnapping and PTSD on Henry's part. It got me interested in reading about Henry's brother's and their romances too. However I did love Salem the cat best of all in this story. The only thing I didn't like was the link to the Lyons den. It felt a bit forced and wasn't really needed in the story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 9, 2022
I like the sweetness to the story. Livy and Henry romance was charming and unique. I enjoyed the mystery added to the romance. The mystery had me intrigued with the excitement of the hunt and pulling the clues together. I liked idea of having both families standing together as a solidarity of not allowing anyone to ruin their family. The story is an easy read that I like.
October 22, 2022
The Heart of a Lyon by Anna St. Claire is another of the Lyon’s Den Connected World by various authors. Lord Henry Stanton and his adopted brother, Roger Stanton, were returning after war in France. Their father had sent a ship to retrieve them, and come on it himself. In a freak accident, the Duke of Kendall was killed, right in front of them. He should never have come. He hated water. Now he was dead. Henry was trying hard to drown his sorrow in gambling and drink. One night when he returned home, he found his brother, Albert, the new Duke of Kendall, had been wounded by a knife and was at death’s door, sitting in a chair in his study. Determined to find the miscreant who had done this, Henry and Roger kept the attack quiet, hoping that would help lead them to the culprit. Lady Olivia Dawson was in a bad way. Her father had gambled away all of their money, even her dowry. He had lost much of it to Lord Langdon who demanded Olivia’s hand as payment. The entire family agreed that was never going to happen.
This was a little different than most of the Lyons Den stories as Henry had a bride in mind when he went to see Mrs. Dove-Lyon. He thought he could find his brother’s attacker and save Lady Olivia at the same time, having no idea he was going to fall in love. It was a good plot and the main characters were both very sympathetic. The stories in this connected world have been very satisfying, except that rarely do we revisit any character from previous books, except Mrs. Dove-Lyon. She has turned out to be a surprising character, a better friend to the ton that most would expect and always fighting for the underdog. Roger Stanton is an entertaining character, all the better for having not been born into the family, as such. It was an entertaining book.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Heart of a Lyon by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #AnnaStClair #TheHeartOfALyon
This was a little different than most of the Lyons Den stories as Henry had a bride in mind when he went to see Mrs. Dove-Lyon. He thought he could find his brother’s attacker and save Lady Olivia at the same time, having no idea he was going to fall in love. It was a good plot and the main characters were both very sympathetic. The stories in this connected world have been very satisfying, except that rarely do we revisit any character from previous books, except Mrs. Dove-Lyon. She has turned out to be a surprising character, a better friend to the ton that most would expect and always fighting for the underdog. Roger Stanton is an entertaining character, all the better for having not been born into the family, as such. It was an entertaining book.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Heart of a Lyon by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #AnnaStClair #TheHeartOfALyon
November 8, 2022
This is another great addition to the Lyon's Den Connected World series. The series is written by multiple authors who each bring a unique spin on the collection while keeping true to the ultimate goal of the main character, The Black Widow of Whitehall. In this installment, Henry, the Earl of Edgerton is plagued with nightmares of his father's death and he is also haunted by the demons of the war. Olivia has dreams of marrying a love match, but those dreams are shattered when she is forced to marry Lord Langdon, who by way of deception and cheating holds the family's fortune in his hands. Because of his demons, Henry vows never to marry, but he grew up with Olivia and wants to protect her, so he agrees to a fake engagement to keep Lord Langdon away. The fake betrothal was orchestrated by none other than The Black Widow and Olivia's mother, who is desperate to see her daughter happy. Olivia is already in love with Henry and wants more with him, but he is reluctant. When dangers strikes, will that open his eyes to the possibility of love and happiness with Olivia?
This was a fast-paced and exciting addition to the series. The storyline was smooth and the plot twists kept me turning the pages. Another great addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
This was a fast-paced and exciting addition to the series. The storyline was smooth and the plot twists kept me turning the pages. Another great addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 30, 2022
Thanks NetGalley for the chance to read this story. This was a little different from the other Lyon's Den books. Lady Olivia Dawson's father has decided who she will marry and he is a completely inappropriate husband but her father can't see that. Henry, the Earl of Egerton knows what he is like and his mother along with her mother decides to see their old classmate, Bessie to do something to help her. In the meantime Henry falls in love with her. Will father wake up to what he is doing? I hope so.
October 25, 2022
I love this series with all the different writers bringing their own perspective to the Lyon’s Den famous gambling den whose owner is renowned for making matches. This one starts a little differently with a faux betrothal of a tortured Earl and a young lady facing the possibility of a forced marriage. Plenty of intrigue and excitement but always a happy ending
October 25, 2022
One of my favorite authors. Wonderful story, great characters. Very enjoyable quick read. Recommend highly.
October 24, 2022
Fake!!!
Its a fake engagement for Henry but its the real thing for Olivia. Enter a gambling debt, a dastardly Lord and Lady Dove-Lyon and you have a story worthy of this series
Its a fake engagement for Henry but its the real thing for Olivia. Enter a gambling debt, a dastardly Lord and Lady Dove-Lyon and you have a story worthy of this series
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