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The Hale Family: Americans in London #1
Balthazar: The Spare
The Hale family is coming to London, and the ton has never seen anything like it...
Meet the Hales, a wild, wealthy, and witty family of loveable misfits who are about to take London by storm. If you loved Mary Balogh’s Bedwins, Julia Quinn's Bridgertons, or Loretta Chase’s Carsingtons, you’ll adore the Hales!
Victoria Dryden gave Balthazar Hale the last thing he ever expected. A reason to stay…
Balthazar and his siblings are living the good life in the utopian community of Oneida, New York, where they have a degree of sexual and intellectual freedom few men—and even fewer women—have ever known.
But sadly, all good things must come to an end.
When their father dies, the Hale siblings discover two disheartening truths. First, they have an older brother none of them knew existed. Second, this stranger is not only the heir to an English dukedom, he’s also their new legal guardian.
Before the Hales know it, all five siblings are dragged to England to take their places in strait-laced, stuffy ton society, where their guardian expects them to make respectable marriages.
All Balthazar wants is a way out.
Until he meets her.
Victoria is a woman with dangerous secrets. She’s the exact opposite of marriage material.
Falling for her could ruin both their lives.
But none of that matters when she’s in Balthazar's arms…and his bed.
Finding their way to happily ever after would be so easy in Oneida.
Too bad they aren’t in utopia anymore…
This sexy Victorian historical romance features enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract, and enough steam to melt your Kindle!
Meet the Hales, a wild, wealthy, and witty family of loveable misfits who are about to take London by storm. If you loved Mary Balogh’s Bedwins, Julia Quinn's Bridgertons, or Loretta Chase’s Carsingtons, you’ll adore the Hales!
Victoria Dryden gave Balthazar Hale the last thing he ever expected. A reason to stay…
Balthazar and his siblings are living the good life in the utopian community of Oneida, New York, where they have a degree of sexual and intellectual freedom few men—and even fewer women—have ever known.
But sadly, all good things must come to an end.
When their father dies, the Hale siblings discover two disheartening truths. First, they have an older brother none of them knew existed. Second, this stranger is not only the heir to an English dukedom, he’s also their new legal guardian.
Before the Hales know it, all five siblings are dragged to England to take their places in strait-laced, stuffy ton society, where their guardian expects them to make respectable marriages.
All Balthazar wants is a way out.
Until he meets her.
Victoria is a woman with dangerous secrets. She’s the exact opposite of marriage material.
Falling for her could ruin both their lives.
But none of that matters when she’s in Balthazar's arms…and his bed.
Finding their way to happily ever after would be so easy in Oneida.
Too bad they aren’t in utopia anymore…
This sexy Victorian historical romance features enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract, and enough steam to melt your Kindle!
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 18, 2023
250 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
S.M. LaViolette
37 books618 followersWho is S.M. LaViolette?
S.M. (that’s short for Shantal Marie) writes super spicy historical romance and historical erotic romance. S.M. likes to write about heroes and heroines who don't fit the mold--that means heroes who aren't always dukes and heroines who aren't always virgins.
People have described S.M.'s style as dark, angsty, and dryly witty.
S.M. also writes historical romance under the pen name Minerva Spencer, and historical mystery under S.M. Goodwin.
S.M. has been a criminal prosecutor, college history teacher, B&B operator, dock worker, ice cream manufacturer, reader for the blind, motel maid, and bounty hunter.
Okay, so the part about being a bounty hunter is a lie.
S.M. does, however, know how to hypnotize a Dungeness crab, sew her own Regency Era clothing, knit a frog hat, juggle, rebuild a 1959 American Rambler, and gain control of Asia (and hold on to it) in the game of RISK.
S.M. (that’s short for Shantal Marie) writes super spicy historical romance and historical erotic romance. S.M. likes to write about heroes and heroines who don't fit the mold--that means heroes who aren't always dukes and heroines who aren't always virgins.
People have described S.M.'s style as dark, angsty, and dryly witty.
S.M. also writes historical romance under the pen name Minerva Spencer, and historical mystery under S.M. Goodwin.
S.M. has been a criminal prosecutor, college history teacher, B&B operator, dock worker, ice cream manufacturer, reader for the blind, motel maid, and bounty hunter.
Okay, so the part about being a bounty hunter is a lie.
S.M. does, however, know how to hypnotize a Dungeness crab, sew her own Regency Era clothing, knit a frog hat, juggle, rebuild a 1959 American Rambler, and gain control of Asia (and hold on to it) in the game of RISK.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
June 10, 2023
3.5 stars. I'm not sure if I'll continue with this series. Something is inherently missing from the book. I thought the Bellamy series is more enjoyable.
July 17, 2023
Sometimes in my reviews you will see the words, "this is a favorite author". Well, since 2015 and over 2800 reads and having read hundreds and hundreds of different authors I only have 25 “favorite” authors that I have read every one of their books (in my genre). S.M. LaViolette (aka Minerva Spencer) is one of those authors. I have only been reading her books since 2021 and I have already read 12 books of S.M. LaViolettes and 16 books as Minerva Spencer. I just love her writing.
I don't give reviews like you normally see. Sometimes I'll see that a reviewer will repeat everything from the authors book description which is ridiculous. Personally, I don’t even read those anymore, even with a new author, so I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. I don't want any hints or spoilers of what may happen in the story. I have no idea what the book is about before I start reading it.
I have to say this book was very different. It was mostly because the background of the family and where they came from that was so very different. Once in London, the obvious similarities to other “ton” stories are familiar but their history is very unusual. It was also late 1800's which is not really my favorite. I'm more of a Regency snob. There were some areas that you could tell it was modern but not too modern for me not to read.
I loved Balthazar and Victoria. I have to admit it did take a bit to get started but once it got to about chapter 5 or 6, I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I loved their situation and how they handled it. I loved their personalities. I loved how they were with each other. Sex was super hot. All the things that make a great read to me.
I don't give reviews like you normally see. Sometimes I'll see that a reviewer will repeat everything from the authors book description which is ridiculous. Personally, I don’t even read those anymore, even with a new author, so I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. I don't want any hints or spoilers of what may happen in the story. I have no idea what the book is about before I start reading it.
I have to say this book was very different. It was mostly because the background of the family and where they came from that was so very different. Once in London, the obvious similarities to other “ton” stories are familiar but their history is very unusual. It was also late 1800's which is not really my favorite. I'm more of a Regency snob. There were some areas that you could tell it was modern but not too modern for me not to read.
I loved Balthazar and Victoria. I have to admit it did take a bit to get started but once it got to about chapter 5 or 6, I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I loved their situation and how they handled it. I loved their personalities. I loved how they were with each other. Sex was super hot. All the things that make a great read to me.
May 22, 2023
Very solid. Sometimes in LaViolette's historicals I'm like "Oh I wish I was reading about that character instead. I will get my wish eventually!
October 30, 2023
Well, this one felt very unique, as so many or S.M. LaViolette's do. I liked Bal and his family so much and I can't wait to get more of them. They just seem so GOOD, even if a bit on the eccentric side.
I really felt for Tori, what a tough situation she was in, she kinda drove me up a wall but what else could she do? There was always so much at stake and she's NEVER had anyone pick her first.
Still, I think we stretched the conflict too far and then rushed the ending. But it was a lovely slow burn
4 Stars
3 on the spice scale
I really felt for Tori, what a tough situation she was in, she kinda drove me up a wall but what else could she do? There was always so much at stake and she's NEVER had anyone pick her first.
Still, I think we stretched the conflict too far and then rushed the ending. But it was a lovely slow burn
4 Stars
3 on the spice scale
May 19, 2023
A fresh take on romance when five siblings from a commune in America arrive in England with a previously unknown brother. Who knew there were communes in America in the 1870s! When the new Duke of Hastings, his fiancée and his five siblings arrive at the country estate, Bal's reputation follows. Absolute fodder for the London gossip sheets. Immediately drawn to the housekeeper, Mrs. Victoria Dryden, his wastes no time in hot pursuit. The lady has her secrets. A lively cast of characters makes for moments of frustration and humor. How could you pass up reading a book that keeps you totally engaged? Keep in mind, Spencer is known for her raw, explicit sexual encounters.
HOT, HOT, HOT!!!
I already love this series! How long must we wait for the next book?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book gifted by the author.
HOT, HOT, HOT!!!
I already love this series! How long must we wait for the next book?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book gifted by the author.
May 18, 2023
Meet the Hales, a wild, wealthy, and witty family of loveable misfits who are about to take London by storm. Balthazar and his siblings are living the good life in the utopian community of Canoga, New York. When their father dies, the five Hale siblings discover two disheartening truths. First, they have an older brother, Zeus none of them knew existed. Second, this stranger is not only the heir to an English dukedom, he’s also their new legal guardian. Before the Hales know it, all five siblings are dragged to England to take their places in strait-laced, stuffy ton society, where their guardian expects them to make respectable marriages. All Balthazar wants is a way out but he has promised Zeus he'll stay for two years, plus if he marries a respectable woman he'll inherit a fortune, which will see him & his siblings set for life. Arriving at the Duke’s country seat Bal meets Victoria Dryden, housekeeper cum steward of the crumbling pile
The start of a new series & another well written book with wonderful characters & a fast paced delicious romance. I loved both Bal & Victoria, he's the peacemaker of the Hales & has been wrongly defamed by the press, she’s a hardworking woman with secrets in her past plus she's older than Bal. Their attraction sizzles & just keeps getting hotter & hotter but it’s their verbal banter, which raises this book above the norm. I also really liked the other siblings & look forward to their stories. An engrossing, captivating romance
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The start of a new series & another well written book with wonderful characters & a fast paced delicious romance. I loved both Bal & Victoria, he's the peacemaker of the Hales & has been wrongly defamed by the press, she’s a hardworking woman with secrets in her past plus she's older than Bal. Their attraction sizzles & just keeps getting hotter & hotter but it’s their verbal banter, which raises this book above the norm. I also really liked the other siblings & look forward to their stories. An engrossing, captivating romance
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 7, 2023
this book starts off the new series with a real bang. The historical aspects of the story were really the best part for me. The Ny cooky communities are fascinating and the author does a great job weaving details into character motivations. I did miss this Author’s usual H bad boy with a heart of gold. Balthazar does not really do anything shitty enough to qualify as bad. But overall loved the intro to the Hales and cannot wait for the rest of the series
May 22, 2025
Loved it. Just loved it. Even though I really shouldn’t be reading these books. They are way over my smut tolerance. But it’s so good. The Hale family is just fascinating. I wonder if there really was a cult in Canoga, NY? She couldn’t have made that up. The level of detail is incredible. The idea that five siblings who were raised in a commune find out they have an older brother they never knew about is plenty interesting. But then he inherits a dukedom and moves them all to England! Honestly, it’s genius. Balthazar and Victoria seem like a very unlikely couple, yet they are two people with terrible reputations they don’t deserve. She is such a sympathetic character, and he is just to die for. He is so tender with her, so protective. He made me cry. She made me cry. This is not a typical HR but that’s what makes it so great. I can’t wait for the rest of the series. I’m particularly interested to see what she will do with Apollo, who is probably gay. The sex scenes are so explicit. I haven’t read a lot of MM romance but what I have read tends to be more implied than explicit. But this author leaves nothing to the imagination. I may burst into flames, but I’m going to enjoy it!
November 22, 2025
1.5 stars | I was relieved this book ended at 90% because I couldn’t take it anymore it was so boring!!! The characters were as bland as the story. I’m so glad I read Io’s book first—that one was nearly a 5 star. Had I started with this one I wouldn’t have continued the series.
Balthazar can be skipped entirely without missing anything seeing as books one and two take place at the same time. Some scenes are even repeated in Io’s book but with actual chemistry and heart to make you feel things unlike this snooze fest.
Balthazar can be skipped entirely without missing anything seeing as books one and two take place at the same time. Some scenes are even repeated in Io’s book but with actual chemistry and heart to make you feel things unlike this snooze fest.
May 25, 2023
Meh. I wanted a fun Regency romance, found this Victorian one with an intriguing premise—a family raised in a utopian community in New York discovers they have an older English brother who inherits a Dukedom. But the aggressively modern language and behavior of the characters was really distracting and the characters didn’t ring true. The sex was more porny than steamy imo and lacked a sense of real romance or tension.
August 29, 2023
I found myself more intrigued by the siblings than the main character in this one.
September 18, 2024
The plot is a more original rendering of the need-to-wed-for-an-inheritance trope. I enjoyed this very much.
October 8, 2024
I tried so hard to read Bal’s character with an American accent, but it did not stick. It was then a surprise each time I was reminded he was from America. 😂
November 3, 2023
I had a hard time rating this book. On the one hand, I loved the unique Hale family; their scenes together are some of my favorite in the book, but on the other hand, because of all the time given to their backstory and setting them up for future books, the romance between Balthazar and Victoria wasn't given the time it needed. It's well over halfway through the book before Tori and Bal have any honest discussion of deeper feelings. Then from there, things almost take on an insta-love quality because the next thing I know, they declare their love for one another.
In the end, the Hale family is what I ended up loving the most about this book, and I found myself more interested in other family members than Tori and Bal. Lastly, I don't know if there was a reason for doing so, but I found it distracting in the first few chapters that Victoria's nickname was spelled two ways: "Tori" and "Torie." At first, I had to ensure the author was still referring to the same person. It seems like she eventually settled on Tori.
In the end, the Hale family is what I ended up loving the most about this book, and I found myself more interested in other family members than Tori and Bal. Lastly, I don't know if there was a reason for doing so, but I found it distracting in the first few chapters that Victoria's nickname was spelled two ways: "Tori" and "Torie." At first, I had to ensure the author was still referring to the same person. It seems like she eventually settled on Tori.
March 26, 2024
4⭐️
surprisingly a bit dissapointing.
Balthazar and his siblings come from a free love commune in america but then discover that they have an older brother who has recently become a duke in england. They move to his estate for the promise of money and a better life. Victoria is the housekeep of the Hale's estate and is trying to forget her troubled past but its coming back to haunt her and her son. When Bal and Tori meet there is instant dislike but throughout the book as they discover more about each other they begin to fall in love.
i really enjoyed the characters in this. i thought they were really well thought out and complex. but i felt like the ending just fell flat. it didnt go where i was expecting and it felt too small and rushed. there were too many plot points and moving pieces. the conflict between Balthazar and Victoria could have been fixed if they just talked to each other, and the outside conflict didn't feel big enough! i also wished that her son Jamie was in it more and we could have seen the relationship between Bal and him more.
but until the ending i thought this book was really good. im so intrigued by zeus especially! i loved the glimpses of his personality we got. and im very excited to see Io and Mastersons relationship and how they will finally get past their animosity!
i think this series has a lot of potential and i will keep on reading it but this one just fell flat for me unfortunately.
surprisingly a bit dissapointing.
Balthazar and his siblings come from a free love commune in america but then discover that they have an older brother who has recently become a duke in england. They move to his estate for the promise of money and a better life. Victoria is the housekeep of the Hale's estate and is trying to forget her troubled past but its coming back to haunt her and her son. When Bal and Tori meet there is instant dislike but throughout the book as they discover more about each other they begin to fall in love.
i really enjoyed the characters in this. i thought they were really well thought out and complex. but i felt like the ending just fell flat. it didnt go where i was expecting and it felt too small and rushed. there were too many plot points and moving pieces. the conflict between Balthazar and Victoria could have been fixed if they just talked to each other, and the outside conflict didn't feel big enough! i also wished that her son Jamie was in it more and we could have seen the relationship between Bal and him more.
but until the ending i thought this book was really good. im so intrigued by zeus especially! i loved the glimpses of his personality we got. and im very excited to see Io and Mastersons relationship and how they will finally get past their animosity!
i think this series has a lot of potential and i will keep on reading it but this one just fell flat for me unfortunately.
November 8, 2023
Zeus was raised by aunt and uncle after mom died. He didn't know about the commune kids and they didn't know about him. Not clear how they found out about each other.
Zeus - quiet authoritative, honorable
Bal - big bodied, study chemistry, interested in farming, soil, inventing machines. First lover sold story painting him as rake, involved in constant orgies, etc, family peacemaker
Io - Strong willed, forthright, hates Zeus secretary Masterson, believes in women freedom, helps women in trouble.
Apollo/Pol - want to raise horses, introvert
Ares - wants to be carpenters, friendliest
Eva - turns 21 in Bal book. Fun loving, loves all things British. Very egalitarian and fun loving and friendly to all
Edith Barrymore - Zeus best friend sister. BF died in civil war. Z proposed after. Edith is heiress. ALl the siblings hate her.
Susan Barcley - Edith downtrodden cousin/servant
Corbin Masterson - Zeus other college friends, now his secretary. Dines with family but not welcomed by siblings. Io hates him, he tries to keep her from indescretions.
Zeus - quiet authoritative, honorable
Bal - big bodied, study chemistry, interested in farming, soil, inventing machines. First lover sold story painting him as rake, involved in constant orgies, etc, family peacemaker
Io - Strong willed, forthright, hates Zeus secretary Masterson, believes in women freedom, helps women in trouble.
Apollo/Pol - want to raise horses, introvert
Ares - wants to be carpenters, friendliest
Eva - turns 21 in Bal book. Fun loving, loves all things British. Very egalitarian and fun loving and friendly to all
Edith Barrymore - Zeus best friend sister. BF died in civil war. Z proposed after. Edith is heiress. ALl the siblings hate her.
Susan Barcley - Edith downtrodden cousin/servant
Corbin Masterson - Zeus other college friends, now his secretary. Dines with family but not welcomed by siblings. Io hates him, he tries to keep her from indescretions.
July 10, 2023
A miss for me,.
As much as I normally adore this author’s work, this one had a sexual point of view I found objectionable. To a certain extent, the Hale family are exemplary folks, but Balthazar’s addiction to ‘frank’ sexuality and language was often at odds with the novel’s emotional climate. The ‘proposal’ was more proposition than romance. I want to marry you because I’m tired of sneaking around to have sex with you [expressed far more vulgarly] is just plain insulting and more than a tad demeaning. Somber conversations interrupted with imperious demands for skirts to be hiked so Bal has sexual access is offensive. The steam in this novel came from repeated condescending behavior and imperative sexual demands more off-putting than romantic. WTH was her turn on? Even she caves to describing herself as ‘dirty’ in their relationship. Not what I look for in a heroine.
As much as I normally adore this author’s work, this one had a sexual point of view I found objectionable. To a certain extent, the Hale family are exemplary folks, but Balthazar’s addiction to ‘frank’ sexuality and language was often at odds with the novel’s emotional climate. The ‘proposal’ was more proposition than romance. I want to marry you because I’m tired of sneaking around to have sex with you [expressed far more vulgarly] is just plain insulting and more than a tad demeaning. Somber conversations interrupted with imperious demands for skirts to be hiked so Bal has sexual access is offensive. The steam in this novel came from repeated condescending behavior and imperative sexual demands more off-putting than romantic. WTH was her turn on? Even she caves to describing herself as ‘dirty’ in their relationship. Not what I look for in a heroine.
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May 30, 2023Brava! An original twist on Victorian romance
All the things you love about American descendants of nobility being compelled back to England and more.
If you think this is same old standard trope, surprise!
A great twist on the background of the heart stopping American hero truly sets a different stage for a passionate love story. Additional elements to love- interesting and charismatic siblings, strong heroine, and villains worth loathing.
Only one infinitesimal criticism, I wish the resolution with villain hadn't been so neatly packaged. But it doesn't detract from great story.
(Note: steamy open door bedroom scenes)
Highly Recommend!
All the things you love about American descendants of nobility being compelled back to England and more.
If you think this is same old standard trope, surprise!
A great twist on the background of the heart stopping American hero truly sets a different stage for a passionate love story. Additional elements to love- interesting and charismatic siblings, strong heroine, and villains worth loathing.
Only one infinitesimal criticism, I wish the resolution with villain hadn't been so neatly packaged. But it doesn't detract from great story.
(Note: steamy open door bedroom scenes)
Highly Recommend!
June 24, 2023
What a mismatched family the Hales are – each member has his or her own strangeness, but actually in a rather nice way.
I really liked Balthazar. He is the ‘Spare’ and in order to inherit a vast amount of money he has to marry a suitable young lady. But, marry? Totally against his upbringing in the strange utopian community where he lived most of his life. That is, until he falls head over heels for the lovely Victoria, a lady with secrets and an ex who doesn’t want to be her ex.
I loved this story with all it’s strangeness, funny bits and passionate ones too. The characters are a delight too.
This one is a ‘thumbs-up’ from me!
I really liked Balthazar. He is the ‘Spare’ and in order to inherit a vast amount of money he has to marry a suitable young lady. But, marry? Totally against his upbringing in the strange utopian community where he lived most of his life. That is, until he falls head over heels for the lovely Victoria, a lady with secrets and an ex who doesn’t want to be her ex.
I loved this story with all it’s strangeness, funny bits and passionate ones too. The characters are a delight too.
This one is a ‘thumbs-up’ from me!
September 19, 2023
BALTHAZAR: THE SPARE by S.M. LaViolette, Book 1 of the Hale Saga Series: American In London
All five siblings are dragged to England to take their places in a strait-laced, stuffy ton society, where their guardian expects them to make respectable marriages. All Balthazar wants is a way out until he meets Mrs. Victoria Dryden, a woman with secrets that could destroy them both.
S.M. LaViolette is no shrinking violet when it comes to writing this sexy Victorian historical romance features enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract, and enough steam to sizzle the pages in BALTHAZAR: THE SPARE.
All five siblings are dragged to England to take their places in a strait-laced, stuffy ton society, where their guardian expects them to make respectable marriages. All Balthazar wants is a way out until he meets Mrs. Victoria Dryden, a woman with secrets that could destroy them both.
S.M. LaViolette is no shrinking violet when it comes to writing this sexy Victorian historical romance features enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract, and enough steam to sizzle the pages in BALTHAZAR: THE SPARE.
May 25, 2023
Fabulous Read
Absolutely loved this book - all the characters in this book were so unique and interesting, the main two characters were portrayed as such beautiful people and the author has written so meticulously about each character that you want to more about them individually as well as together.The interaction between the characters is amusing, touching and exciting. I could read this book many times more.Looking forward to all the other books in these series, just hope they come out soon.
Absolutely loved this book - all the characters in this book were so unique and interesting, the main two characters were portrayed as such beautiful people and the author has written so meticulously about each character that you want to more about them individually as well as together.The interaction between the characters is amusing, touching and exciting. I could read this book many times more.Looking forward to all the other books in these series, just hope they come out soon.
May 15, 2023
Mrs. Victoria Dryden is a very capable housekeeper who has a very big secret. Balthazar Hale is an American farmer who has been labeled by the press as The Wicked Spare. The chemistry between the two is undeniable but circumstances push them apart at every turn. Great story with wonderful, strong characters in all of the Hale siblings! I can’t wait for the next book!
I received a free copy of this book from the author. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 24, 2023
3 stars. I didn’t find this book as good as this author’s books usually are. Her note at the end helped explain why: this is the first book in a series, so a lot of time is spent introducing everyone and the situation. I didn’t like how little time the main characters spent together, as it didn’t allow for a relationship to build enough for their love to be believable.
I do look forward to the rest in the series!
I do look forward to the rest in the series!
March 23, 2024
4.5 Stars!!
Such a refreshing take on historical romance! Definitely an original plot with a hero I 100% can get behind! Did take off 0.5 stars as I felt there was a bit of a lack of connection but I did love both MCs and rooted for them!
Also sign me up for a modern-thinking, big sensitive woke king (who also happens to be a millionaire), is a skilled lover and is obsessed with his woman. Sigh, I need a Balthazar.
Can’t wait to read on and get to know the fam more!
Such a refreshing take on historical romance! Definitely an original plot with a hero I 100% can get behind! Did take off 0.5 stars as I felt there was a bit of a lack of connection but I did love both MCs and rooted for them!
Also sign me up for a modern-thinking, big sensitive woke king (who also happens to be a millionaire), is a skilled lover and is obsessed with his woman. Sigh, I need a Balthazar.
Can’t wait to read on and get to know the fam more!
September 21, 2024
Overall it was an enjoyable experience, with an interesting plot and characters that felt real. But, after the midway point the two leads have sex like every other page, even in the middle of important conversations and it got stale. Bal is also very large, something that is expressed almost every time he shows up. Aries and Apollo could also have been replaced with a lampshade and I don't think anything would change.
This aside, I will continue reading this series as I did enjoy it
This aside, I will continue reading this series as I did enjoy it
January 11, 2025
Charming and delightful. Balthazar: The Spare kicks off The Hale Saga with a charming story of an older-than FMC (single mom) and an “earthy” progressive American MMC raised in a free-spirited, commune-living family. Bal and Tori’s romance is sweet (and pretty spicy).
As the first book in the series, there’s a fair amount of setup and background detail, but it’s engaging enough to keep you hooked. Looking forward to the next!
As the first book in the series, there’s a fair amount of setup and background detail, but it’s engaging enough to keep you hooked. Looking forward to the next!
February 21, 2025
This started out really good. She set up the new series with a lot of intrigue and I like that we don't know a lot of background yet. I also really liked the heroine's secret- super high stakes. But the ending felt a little too easily solved. The mysterious letters were anticlimactic and once the couple got together it all started to blend together. I'll definitely be reading the rest in the series though!
May 19, 2023
Oh Ms LaViolette, you’ve done it again! A wonderful book: imaginative, intriguing and different. The characters are well rounded, the dialogue believable and it holds everything I want in a book. I read through the night to complete it, and enjoyed ever moment - I’m waiting with bated breath to read Io’s story and the rest of the series.
August 1, 2023
Well damn!
Can I have a Balthazar?! 😄 I absolutely adored him. And, Victoria was so darling and strong. How Victoria picked up her life and made a way for herself. Balthazar was just the best. So naughty and strong. A great brother. I hope there are more stories about the Hale's and their handsome brother, the Duke John (Zeus).
Can I have a Balthazar?! 😄 I absolutely adored him. And, Victoria was so darling and strong. How Victoria picked up her life and made a way for herself. Balthazar was just the best. So naughty and strong. A great brother. I hope there are more stories about the Hale's and their handsome brother, the Duke John (Zeus).
January 20, 2024
This was a perfectly pleasant historical romance. Personally I didn’t feel the chemistry between these two and ultimately I can’t see myself remembering this in a few months. The sex scenes were hot though and this author clearly has a talent for writing them. This was just too slow for me and there was just too much conversation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews