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Secrets #1
Seven Secrets of Seduction
Scandalous and provocative, The Seven Secrets of Seduction is an intoxicating insight into the mind of men and the desires of women; and the book has all the ton talking.
Secret #1: Every good seduction begins with a baited hook . . .
Well-educated, but not part of society, Miranda Chase is just as captivated by the erotic pages as everyone else in London. Intrigued by the layers she sees beneath the book's surface, she writes an editorial about it, never realizing that her passionate words will draw an actual viscount to her uncle's bookshop.
Maximilian, Viscount Downing, has very particular ideas about passion and sees truth only in desire. He freely flaunts his sensual power and seeks nothing more than another conquest; the one that could justify his entire debauched existence. But Miranda's blend of innocence, trust, and love cause a strange thing to happen on the way to this seduction. Something that just might threaten the very fabric of his jaded heart . . .
372 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 25, 2010
63 people are currently reading
3558 people want to read
About the author
Anne Mallory
12 books431 followersSome people have always known they wanted to write. Others fall into it and discover its inherent joy. I’m somewhere in between. As an avid reader, writing a novel had always tickled the back of my mind. There seem to be a lot of people who say, “Someday I’ll write a book.” For me, the feeling tickled, moved into an incessant knocking and finally became a dull roar. All I needed was to make that “someday” into “today.”
I’ve always considered myself a creator, so transitioning to writer was not as grueling as it might have been. From creating two minute stories for people on the street, to creating jewelry, crafts, stained glass, pottery, music, crazy art projects… the list of things I like to create (and buy all the necessary materials for) keeps getting longer amidst my family’s exasperated groans. I love to start something from scratch, and then mold and shape it into a finished project. Writing books provides a challenge I accept with relish (and a bit of hair pulling). Building a world, populating it with characters and giving them a script and satisfying ending - what more could a creative type ask for?
I’ve always loved romance novels, ever since I started sneaking them from my Mom in elementary school. I mean, what’s not to love? Rakish men and smart, feisty women, adventure and mystery, the love and loyalty between two people. Give me a roomful of romances, some Agatha Christie, some Edgar Allan Poe, the Harry Potter series and an armful of other fantasy novels, (and steady meals with chocolate) and I’m in heaven.
And heaven is what I consider a particular cottage on an inland lake in northern Michigan during the summertime. If you are headed “up north” this summer, maybe I’ll see you on the way…
Anne Bytes (or pseudo trivia)
Started writing on September 11th, 2001 as an escape from the day (needed an escape with a happy ending).
Thinks that 11pm is a perfectly normal time to begin reading a 400 page book.
Escaped from Alcatraz (story here).
Got a hole-in-one on a Par 3 and was just happy to have beaten her Dad on a hole for once. After a quick rotating hip dance, she was surprised to see her Dad still looking from the tee to the hole where the ball had bounced once and dropped in. His mouth was hanging open. Anne’s response? “What?” (In coding terms, Anne != golfer. That’s “Anne is obviously not a golfer” for you normal people).
Loves tubing (behind a boat) and roller coasters (Cedar Point, here we come!).
Loves paddleball, especially “extreme” paddleball. In the normal variety of paddleball, she helped score 432 hits with Cousins J and Mg one summer day.
Played at Carnegie Hall and was so excited she launched her violin bow across the stage when she got to the picking section of the piece. Thankfully said bow was recovered in time to start bowing once more.
Saw a Great White Shark in real life (at Monterey Bay Aquarium, thankfully).
Wrote her first (and only until Masquerading) book in sixth grade. It was a thriller/mystery centering around two sixth grade detectives. Her Mom assures her it is still well loved (read: stashed in the attic).
Began Masquerading the Marquess on Good Friday 2002, sold it on Good Friday 2003.
Considers herself a hobby collector. Friends and Family like to call her hobby “pack ratting.”
Can relate to the line in Office Space, “Um, I’m gonna need you to go ahead and come in tomorrow. So if you could be here around nine, that would be great. Oh, oh, yea… I forgot. I’m gonna also need you to come in Sunday too.”
I’ve always considered myself a creator, so transitioning to writer was not as grueling as it might have been. From creating two minute stories for people on the street, to creating jewelry, crafts, stained glass, pottery, music, crazy art projects… the list of things I like to create (and buy all the necessary materials for) keeps getting longer amidst my family’s exasperated groans. I love to start something from scratch, and then mold and shape it into a finished project. Writing books provides a challenge I accept with relish (and a bit of hair pulling). Building a world, populating it with characters and giving them a script and satisfying ending - what more could a creative type ask for?
I’ve always loved romance novels, ever since I started sneaking them from my Mom in elementary school. I mean, what’s not to love? Rakish men and smart, feisty women, adventure and mystery, the love and loyalty between two people. Give me a roomful of romances, some Agatha Christie, some Edgar Allan Poe, the Harry Potter series and an armful of other fantasy novels, (and steady meals with chocolate) and I’m in heaven.
And heaven is what I consider a particular cottage on an inland lake in northern Michigan during the summertime. If you are headed “up north” this summer, maybe I’ll see you on the way…
Anne Bytes (or pseudo trivia)
Started writing on September 11th, 2001 as an escape from the day (needed an escape with a happy ending).
Thinks that 11pm is a perfectly normal time to begin reading a 400 page book.
Escaped from Alcatraz (story here).
Got a hole-in-one on a Par 3 and was just happy to have beaten her Dad on a hole for once. After a quick rotating hip dance, she was surprised to see her Dad still looking from the tee to the hole where the ball had bounced once and dropped in. His mouth was hanging open. Anne’s response? “What?” (In coding terms, Anne != golfer. That’s “Anne is obviously not a golfer” for you normal people).
Loves tubing (behind a boat) and roller coasters (Cedar Point, here we come!).
Loves paddleball, especially “extreme” paddleball. In the normal variety of paddleball, she helped score 432 hits with Cousins J and Mg one summer day.
Played at Carnegie Hall and was so excited she launched her violin bow across the stage when she got to the picking section of the piece. Thankfully said bow was recovered in time to start bowing once more.
Saw a Great White Shark in real life (at Monterey Bay Aquarium, thankfully).
Wrote her first (and only until Masquerading) book in sixth grade. It was a thriller/mystery centering around two sixth grade detectives. Her Mom assures her it is still well loved (read: stashed in the attic).
Began Masquerading the Marquess on Good Friday 2002, sold it on Good Friday 2003.
Considers herself a hobby collector. Friends and Family like to call her hobby “pack ratting.”
Can relate to the line in Office Space, “Um, I’m gonna need you to go ahead and come in tomorrow. So if you could be here around nine, that would be great. Oh, oh, yea… I forgot. I’m gonna also need you to come in Sunday too.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 267 reviews
January 3, 2012
*Originally read 9/4/10*
I think whatever I say about this book won't do it nearly as much justice as I feel it deserves. When you think about the plot, it seems like it has been done to death and that it's just a cliche. But this author takes every expected outcome or reaction and twists it in an unexpected manner. When you would normally see a dramatic moment or a villainous character, you don't end up with the expected. It was so refreshing!
Miranda was a simply awesome character. She's a "lowly shop girl" who somehow catches the interest of Viscount Downing. Their first encounters are full of playful banter and hidden innuendos. I loved how Downing skewed things in his favor so that he had an excuse to see her again. As their acquaintance deepens, Miranda cannot help but feel that Downing has cultivated their friendship for another purpose, but she quite rationally thinks it through and decides to risk it anyway. Miranda is an optimist, but she's also very pragmatic and realistic. There were a few moments in the story where I expected her to react with high drama, but she didn't. She took the time to think things through and decide what she was willing to accept and what the motivations of the offender were. I couldn't help but love her for it.
Downing was quite fascinating. When we got further into the story and discovered his hidden motivations, I just wanted to smack him upside his head, and then cuddle him. That man needed love. He was constantly plotting and maneuvering, but he was afraid to trust it when he finally achieved his goal. His dual nature was so sad. He had incredible self loathing, but he desperately wanted someone to see him and love him for who he was. I was so devastated for both him and Miranda toward the end. The anguish and yearning that was shown in that final scene in the bedroom...it killed me.
I loved how there were no villains in this story. Even though there were characters who caused issues and problems for their family, they were still sympathetic. Also, there was a situation involving a woman that I felt was handled extremely well. I was afraid she would turn into a caricature, but the author held true to her determination to make every character feel real and understandable.
At times the writing was quite poetic and lyrical. Downing was the biggest cause of that. He liked to seduce Miranda with his words, and he had quite a compelling turn of phrase. The sexual tension in this book was excellent. The characters don't have sex until far into the book, but I'm glad they didn't. I really enjoyed watching them seduce each other with their conversation and their personalities. It made their final capitulation so much more meaningful and sexy.
This book wasn't dark and angsty, but it wasn't light and irreverent. It felt like a nice balance of all those factors depending on the requirements of the scene. There were times it was humorous and cute, and times it was powerful and sexy, but it was also tortured and dark too. I like that it couldn't be easily typecast.
I cannot wait to try more by this author. I can only hope that I enjoy them as much as I liked this one.
I think whatever I say about this book won't do it nearly as much justice as I feel it deserves. When you think about the plot, it seems like it has been done to death and that it's just a cliche. But this author takes every expected outcome or reaction and twists it in an unexpected manner. When you would normally see a dramatic moment or a villainous character, you don't end up with the expected. It was so refreshing!
Miranda was a simply awesome character. She's a "lowly shop girl" who somehow catches the interest of Viscount Downing. Their first encounters are full of playful banter and hidden innuendos. I loved how Downing skewed things in his favor so that he had an excuse to see her again. As their acquaintance deepens, Miranda cannot help but feel that Downing has cultivated their friendship for another purpose, but she quite rationally thinks it through and decides to risk it anyway. Miranda is an optimist, but she's also very pragmatic and realistic. There were a few moments in the story where I expected her to react with high drama, but she didn't. She took the time to think things through and decide what she was willing to accept and what the motivations of the offender were. I couldn't help but love her for it.
Downing was quite fascinating. When we got further into the story and discovered his hidden motivations, I just wanted to smack him upside his head, and then cuddle him. That man needed love. He was constantly plotting and maneuvering, but he was afraid to trust it when he finally achieved his goal. His dual nature was so sad. He had incredible self loathing, but he desperately wanted someone to see him and love him for who he was. I was so devastated for both him and Miranda toward the end. The anguish and yearning that was shown in that final scene in the bedroom...it killed me.
I loved how there were no villains in this story. Even though there were characters who caused issues and problems for their family, they were still sympathetic. Also, there was a situation involving a woman that I felt was handled extremely well. I was afraid she would turn into a caricature, but the author held true to her determination to make every character feel real and understandable.
At times the writing was quite poetic and lyrical. Downing was the biggest cause of that. He liked to seduce Miranda with his words, and he had quite a compelling turn of phrase. The sexual tension in this book was excellent. The characters don't have sex until far into the book, but I'm glad they didn't. I really enjoyed watching them seduce each other with their conversation and their personalities. It made their final capitulation so much more meaningful and sexy.
This book wasn't dark and angsty, but it wasn't light and irreverent. It felt like a nice balance of all those factors depending on the requirements of the scene. There were times it was humorous and cute, and times it was powerful and sexy, but it was also tortured and dark too. I like that it couldn't be easily typecast.
I cannot wait to try more by this author. I can only hope that I enjoy them as much as I liked this one.
December 9, 2023
Unlike many books, this one is exactly what the title suggests. Every paragraph, every page, every thought throughout the first half was about titillation, nothing more, nothing less. Maximilian, a member of the artistocracy, is an expert at seducing young women for the sheer game of it and he always succeeds. So, when he decides to deflower and open the eyes of sweet Miranda, the idealistic but innocent bookstore worker, it is a given he will get what he wants - he always does. Miranda is supposed to be a smart, observant yet optimistic young woman who just happens to lose every intelligent thought and fall in a heap of burning desire (in spite of her strict upbringing and her REALLY lame attempts at refusing) whenever Maximilian steps into a room. He makes no pretense to her about his shallow objective and his seduction is blatant. Still, she just can't control herself enough to have any backbone whatsoever, she just must give in, forget the cost - he wants it!
From there the storyline goes from merely eye-rolling to smash-the-book, rip-the-pages-out and burn-each-individually, infuriating
From there the storyline goes from merely eye-rolling to smash-the-book, rip-the-pages-out and burn-each-individually, infuriating
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2023
UPDATE: December 2016 — new rating: 4 stars
Reread and enjoyed (almost just) as much as the first time! Lowered rating from 4.5 to 4. Such a terrific read, but I have to admit that sometimes, it seems like Mallory is trying way too hard to write flowery and pretty prose—so much so that I finish the sentence or paragraph or page and have no idea what the f*ck I just read lolol. I hate to say it, but it's true!! I consider myself a reasonably intelligent person, so I really don't think it's me. So over-the-top; don't know how I wasn't bothered by this previously the first time I read it, because it drove me absolutely nutso this time around.
_________________________________
~ A *must-read* with a wonderful story, two complex leading characters, and sizzling chemistry (4.5 stars) ~
[1820 - London, England:]
This is my first book by Anne Mallory and *oh my lord* - what a book it was!!! For some reason, Mallory's other books have never appealed to me and/or I haven't gotten around to reading them yet, but the premise of Seven Secrets of Seduction sounded interesting so I took a chance and pre-ordered it from Amazon. I am unbelievably glad that I did! The book starts off with an utterly delightful first encounter between the hero and heroine that will put a silly grin on your face, leave you reeling and wondering, and have you anxiously awaiting their next battle of wits.
Miranda Chase and Maximilian, Viscount Downing are interesting, complex, imperfect, drastically in need of love (and both very lovable), so easy to root for, and basically just all-around fabulous. Miranda is a shopgirl in her uncle's bookstore who has wonderful dreams of travel and excitement, yet finds herself unable to reach for the real thing and instead relying on books as a substitute. Max is Mr. Bad Boy in society, always featured in the gossip pages along with his scandal-prone family, and is unbearably mysterious, dangerous, and attractive. The book is essentially about these two characters becoming who they were "meant to be" and revealing their "true selves" (enough corny phrases for you?). Each sees the unbelievable potential in the other, though they are unable to see it in themselves, until their complicated friendship and then unexpectedly intense love opens their eyes.
The supporting characters are engaging and multi-dimensional (Miranda's friend Georgette is hysterical!), though Mallory does a good job of focusing on Miranda and Max and not throwing in needless distractions. There is no errant madman-murderer on the loose, no random kidnapping in the last chapter, no evil blackmailer who knows some horrible family secret. I found all of this a nice change from most historicals and thought it made the romance and character development of the hero and heroine all that more fleshed-out and enjoyable. Despite there being no mystery subplot in this book, there are unexpected twists and turns and they are all very well-written and orchestrated. My only complaint is that the ending was a little too abrupt and could have used a few more pages or an epilogue.
Writing about the chemistry in this book is unbelievably complicated, because the entire thing is absolutely sizzling ... yet they don't kiss for the first time till p194 - more than halfway through the book!! Nonetheless, your fingers will literally be singed by the pages right from the get-go and you'll be fanning yourself with whatever you can find handy, lol. Writing as a reader who *hates* romances where the attraction is instantaneous or we hear on and on from the first page about how much they lust after each other like crazy, I have to say that Mallory has done an exquisite job here. The book is fraught with sexual tension, yet it is never exaggerated or gratuitous, but rather very playfully and skillfully done.
One aspect of Seven Secrets of Seduction that was unusual for the genre was that the first half - if not more - of the book was mostly told from Miranda's perspective; the first time we hear Max's thoughts are on p119. Unlike in Candace Camp's novels, where I have found this is almost universally the case, it was not at all detrimental here. Quite the opposite in fact, as it brings the reader along for Miranda's ride and makes us feel just as unbalanced and unsure, yet excited, as she does. Max is increasingly revealed to us as the book progresses and the more we begin to see his true character, through both Miranda's perceptive observations and the passages written from his POV, the more wonderful, intriguing, and sigh-worthy he becomes.
Basically, I urge you to run to your nearest bookstore or put your mouse on "Add to Cart" and grab your credit card - this book is not one to miss and I absolutely cannot wait to read it again in the future!
Secrets Series
Book 1 - Seven Secrets of Seduction
Book 2 - One Night Is Never Enough
Book 3 - In Total Surrender
Recommendations
Books similar to this one or that I think you'll enjoy if you like Seven Secrets include:
- And Then He Kissed Her (Girl-Bachelor Series, Book 1) by Laura Lee Guhrke, 5 stars
- Wicked Becomes You by Meredith Duran, 5 stars
- Bound by Your Touch by Meredith Duran, 5 stars
- Thunder and Roses (Fallen Angels Series, Book 1) by Mary Jo Putney, 5 stars
- One Moonlit Night by Samantha James, 5 stars
(Written on May 28, 2010)
Reread and enjoyed (almost just) as much as the first time! Lowered rating from 4.5 to 4. Such a terrific read, but I have to admit that sometimes, it seems like Mallory is trying way too hard to write flowery and pretty prose—so much so that I finish the sentence or paragraph or page and have no idea what the f*ck I just read lolol. I hate to say it, but it's true!! I consider myself a reasonably intelligent person, so I really don't think it's me. So over-the-top; don't know how I wasn't bothered by this previously the first time I read it, because it drove me absolutely nutso this time around.
_________________________________
~ A *must-read* with a wonderful story, two complex leading characters, and sizzling chemistry (4.5 stars) ~
[1820 - London, England:]
This is my first book by Anne Mallory and *oh my lord* - what a book it was!!! For some reason, Mallory's other books have never appealed to me and/or I haven't gotten around to reading them yet, but the premise of Seven Secrets of Seduction sounded interesting so I took a chance and pre-ordered it from Amazon. I am unbelievably glad that I did! The book starts off with an utterly delightful first encounter between the hero and heroine that will put a silly grin on your face, leave you reeling and wondering, and have you anxiously awaiting their next battle of wits.
Miranda Chase and Maximilian, Viscount Downing are interesting, complex, imperfect, drastically in need of love (and both very lovable), so easy to root for, and basically just all-around fabulous. Miranda is a shopgirl in her uncle's bookstore who has wonderful dreams of travel and excitement, yet finds herself unable to reach for the real thing and instead relying on books as a substitute. Max is Mr. Bad Boy in society, always featured in the gossip pages along with his scandal-prone family, and is unbearably mysterious, dangerous, and attractive. The book is essentially about these two characters becoming who they were "meant to be" and revealing their "true selves" (enough corny phrases for you?). Each sees the unbelievable potential in the other, though they are unable to see it in themselves, until their complicated friendship and then unexpectedly intense love opens their eyes.
The supporting characters are engaging and multi-dimensional (Miranda's friend Georgette is hysterical!), though Mallory does a good job of focusing on Miranda and Max and not throwing in needless distractions. There is no errant madman-murderer on the loose, no random kidnapping in the last chapter, no evil blackmailer who knows some horrible family secret. I found all of this a nice change from most historicals and thought it made the romance and character development of the hero and heroine all that more fleshed-out and enjoyable. Despite there being no mystery subplot in this book, there are unexpected twists and turns and they are all very well-written and orchestrated. My only complaint is that the ending was a little too abrupt and could have used a few more pages or an epilogue.
Writing about the chemistry in this book is unbelievably complicated, because the entire thing is absolutely sizzling ... yet they don't kiss for the first time till p194 - more than halfway through the book!! Nonetheless, your fingers will literally be singed by the pages right from the get-go and you'll be fanning yourself with whatever you can find handy, lol. Writing as a reader who *hates* romances where the attraction is instantaneous or we hear on and on from the first page about how much they lust after each other like crazy, I have to say that Mallory has done an exquisite job here. The book is fraught with sexual tension, yet it is never exaggerated or gratuitous, but rather very playfully and skillfully done.
One aspect of Seven Secrets of Seduction that was unusual for the genre was that the first half - if not more - of the book was mostly told from Miranda's perspective; the first time we hear Max's thoughts are on p119. Unlike in Candace Camp's novels, where I have found this is almost universally the case, it was not at all detrimental here. Quite the opposite in fact, as it brings the reader along for Miranda's ride and makes us feel just as unbalanced and unsure, yet excited, as she does. Max is increasingly revealed to us as the book progresses and the more we begin to see his true character, through both Miranda's perceptive observations and the passages written from his POV, the more wonderful, intriguing, and sigh-worthy he becomes.
Basically, I urge you to run to your nearest bookstore or put your mouse on "Add to Cart" and grab your credit card - this book is not one to miss and I absolutely cannot wait to read it again in the future!
Secrets Series
Book 1 - Seven Secrets of Seduction
Book 2 - One Night Is Never Enough
Book 3 - In Total Surrender
Recommendations
Books similar to this one or that I think you'll enjoy if you like Seven Secrets include:
- And Then He Kissed Her (Girl-Bachelor Series, Book 1) by Laura Lee Guhrke, 5 stars
- Wicked Becomes You by Meredith Duran, 5 stars
- Bound by Your Touch by Meredith Duran, 5 stars
- Thunder and Roses (Fallen Angels Series, Book 1) by Mary Jo Putney, 5 stars
- One Moonlit Night by Samantha James, 5 stars
(Written on May 28, 2010)
July 1, 2011
It was an ok book but very pretentious. It took a very long time before the characters got to any kind of business, and even after they did it was all written is such a philosophical manner that I wanted to take a cold cloth to my forehead. It's not that it was particualry hard to understand,it was just that that level of wanna be intelectual speach got on to my nerves. Why say 'Then she left' when you can say 'She drew her fingers over the juncture of the door, where the wood protruded, separating the
spaces into two—the halls for the servants, the rooms for the masters. “Farewell, Maxim,” she
whispered.
And she walked through the portal in to the future.'
How...not necessary.
spaces into two—the halls for the servants, the rooms for the masters. “Farewell, Maxim,” she
whispered.
And she walked through the portal in to the future.'
How...not necessary.
August 29, 2015
Wow. I must say a great big thank you to my GR friend Keri for sending me this recommendation. I REALLY enjoyed Seven Secrets of Seduction by this new to me author.
Miranda Chase, an avid book-lover, works in her uncle’s book store. Unable to overcome her fears and fully embrace the world at large, she fulfills her dreams through the pages of her beloved books. One day, an irritating, confusing, devilish man enters the shop and proceeds to turn Miranda’s life upside down. Unbeknown to Miranda, he is the notorious yet mysterious Viscount Downing.
And so begins a dance of seduction.
Seven Secrets of Seduction had one of the best opening chapters I have seen in a long time, and, having created such high expectations, doesn’t disappoint at any stage. This is despite, or maybe because of the fact, that the book focuses solely on the interaction between Miranda and Downing.
There is no cast of thousands or secondary romance to distract the reader, no lengthy separation of the hero and heroine, no Big Misunderstanding, and almost no action to speak of. Just Miranda and Downing, navigating the un-chartered territory in which they each find themselves.
I admit to expecting boredom and ennui to set in some point, but, thankfully, it never happened. Not even close. The dance between Miranda and Downing was fascinating to watch, and all the more affecting because of the intimacy the author created.
Downing was an intriguing, sensuous and extremely sexy character. He goes to great lengths to orchestrate circumstances where he can spend time with Miranda, who has fascinated him for longer than she knows; but despite the fact Downing believes himself the choreographer, he will find himself just as much a slave to the dance.
Downing employs the use of words in his seduction, using innuendo and double-entendres to confuse and arouse Miranda, knowing that she is able to compete with him in wit and intellect. Although Miranda at first believes he seeks to amuse himself with the lowly shopgirl, Downing demonstrates her worth to him in a myriad of subtle yet powerful and moving ways.
Miranda is a clever, sensible and pragmatic character, written in such a way that it is completely understandable that she has so completely captured the attention of this dark, powerful man. I loved them both.
The sexual tension fairly leaks from the page, a divine torture, and when words finally move to touches, it is worth the wait. The fact that the reader will likely know Downing’s secrets well before Miranda does not detract in any way, and the author still manages to include other surprises.
I highly recommend this book and will definitely be reading more from this author.
Miranda Chase, an avid book-lover, works in her uncle’s book store. Unable to overcome her fears and fully embrace the world at large, she fulfills her dreams through the pages of her beloved books. One day, an irritating, confusing, devilish man enters the shop and proceeds to turn Miranda’s life upside down. Unbeknown to Miranda, he is the notorious yet mysterious Viscount Downing.
And so begins a dance of seduction.
Seven Secrets of Seduction had one of the best opening chapters I have seen in a long time, and, having created such high expectations, doesn’t disappoint at any stage. This is despite, or maybe because of the fact, that the book focuses solely on the interaction between Miranda and Downing.
There is no cast of thousands or secondary romance to distract the reader, no lengthy separation of the hero and heroine, no Big Misunderstanding, and almost no action to speak of. Just Miranda and Downing, navigating the un-chartered territory in which they each find themselves.
I admit to expecting boredom and ennui to set in some point, but, thankfully, it never happened. Not even close. The dance between Miranda and Downing was fascinating to watch, and all the more affecting because of the intimacy the author created.
Downing was an intriguing, sensuous and extremely sexy character. He goes to great lengths to orchestrate circumstances where he can spend time with Miranda, who has fascinated him for longer than she knows; but despite the fact Downing believes himself the choreographer, he will find himself just as much a slave to the dance.
Downing employs the use of words in his seduction, using innuendo and double-entendres to confuse and arouse Miranda, knowing that she is able to compete with him in wit and intellect. Although Miranda at first believes he seeks to amuse himself with the lowly shopgirl, Downing demonstrates her worth to him in a myriad of subtle yet powerful and moving ways.
Miranda is a clever, sensible and pragmatic character, written in such a way that it is completely understandable that she has so completely captured the attention of this dark, powerful man. I loved them both.
The sexual tension fairly leaks from the page, a divine torture, and when words finally move to touches, it is worth the wait. The fact that the reader will likely know Downing’s secrets well before Miranda does not detract in any way, and the author still manages to include other surprises.
I highly recommend this book and will definitely be reading more from this author.
August 15, 2010
I hope that I can give this book a worthy enough review.
During the first couple of chapters I was irritated at the prose and at what I perceived as flowery writing. But slowly Max didn't only end up seducing Miranda, he was also seducing me. There began my love of the book. Ms. Mallory, eventually relaxed the prose and just let the book flow and IT DID! Miranda is a lowly shop woman in correspondence with two men..one an old crotchety curmudgeon and a hot new author that has just put out the Seven Secrets of Seduction, setting the ton on fire.
In walks Max, a Visount and instantly taken with the lovely Miranda. Eventually she ends up working in his library setting it to right. Hopefully she can set Max's world to rights as well.
What made this book so great to me, was that Max even though he thought that he held all the cards in their relationship he soon finds out that Miranda holds the key to his happiness.
Max was a very private man with a lot of secrets, a painful childhood and a family that needed to be spanked. I think Miranda was the one to do it. Don't miss this book.
During the first couple of chapters I was irritated at the prose and at what I perceived as flowery writing. But slowly Max didn't only end up seducing Miranda, he was also seducing me. There began my love of the book. Ms. Mallory, eventually relaxed the prose and just let the book flow and IT DID! Miranda is a lowly shop woman in correspondence with two men..one an old crotchety curmudgeon and a hot new author that has just put out the Seven Secrets of Seduction, setting the ton on fire.
In walks Max, a Visount and instantly taken with the lovely Miranda. Eventually she ends up working in his library setting it to right. Hopefully she can set Max's world to rights as well.
What made this book so great to me, was that Max even though he thought that he held all the cards in their relationship he soon finds out that Miranda holds the key to his happiness.
Max was a very private man with a lot of secrets, a painful childhood and a family that needed to be spanked. I think Miranda was the one to do it. Don't miss this book.
July 8, 2013
4.5 rounded up for the glorious dialogue. Exceedingly well written, providing a exhilarating mixture of heat and tenderness. Love the many excuses he used to see her again and his beautiful emotive words of life and passion.
March 17, 2011
This is a very difficult book for me to review. There were some aspects which I really appreciated, that were quite honest and emotional, but there were also some aspects that had me almost putting it down unfinished at several points. I rated it 3 stars, but it's really 2.5 stars - halfway between "It was OK" and "I liked it".
Things I really liked about this one:-
- In some respects, it captures more of the cruelty of Society than all the books that include Almack's or virginal ladies of the Ton. This includes some of the "meat market" of relationships based upon money and power and cynicism, but the relationship in this book is based on kept mistresses, not marriage. The harshness of the lives of women looking for someone to "protect" them is something which HRs usually gloss over or ignore, or only look at from the (reformed or reforming) hero's point-of-view. This book took a fresh approach, which I appreciated.
- The first 30% of this book is written exclusively from the heroine's point-of-view. It completely drove me nuts, and I was almost ready to throw the book out and delete it unfinished from my kindle, BUT then it switched to the hero's point-of-view for about 2 paragraphs, and I realized just how much I'd been lured in to the point where I just couldn't wait to know what was going on in his mind. It was frustrating, and really quite clever. I was totally hooked and reeled in.
- The last few chapters are just excellent. Really, really good. I loved them.
Some things I didn't like so much:-
- There were some inaccuracies which I really struggled with, although, interestingly enough, they were concentrated in the first couple of chapters, and were really basic. For example, London does not have "blocks" in terms of street layout. There are "tower blocks" (aka "high-rises"), but the streets in London and of all the older cities and towns in large parts of Europe, are based on very old, very haphazard cart tracks, and the concept of a "block" is irrelevant. The only city that I can think of in the UK that has a grid system with blocks is Glasgow. Also, I couldn't figure out what "esquire training" is supposed to be. This doesn't exist in the UK. "Esquire" is a vague term that just means "man", and isn't really used much unless someone is trying to ingratiate themselves with you in addressing a letter. It's got nothing to do with the legal profession. For someone studying to enter the legal world, you would say they were "studying for the bar". I guess the author could know something I don't, and be looking for ultra-realism, but I didn't understand it, so it annoyed me a bit.
- None of the characters are really sympathetic at all, and I really couldn't get emotionally invested in any of them. The hero is a lecherous, skirt-chasing creep, quite frankly, and he only partially redeemed himself from my hating him and his overwhelming sexual charisma. His behavior made my skin crawl and would be classified as persistent sexual harassment nowadays. Having said that, he really fits what I visualize when I think of a rake - someone with no morality whatsoever, using tried and tested sexual charisma to get what he wants, before moving on the next shiny object. So, I don't like him, but he feels real. The heroine, meanwhile, doesn't feel real to me. As a shop-girl, and an educated, but realistic, one at that, drilled in good behavior by her mother, she would be fully aware of the risks in doing what the hero makes her do, and for someone so clearly grounded, she really strikes me as TSTL for the first 3/4 of the book. As for her "friend", Georgette, how would anyone ever listen to the words spoken by such an irritating, shallow individual?
- The overblown, prosy writing style just irritated me. It was totally unnecessary since towards the end of the book, the writing becomes lucid, flowing, descriptive without fluffy and communicates emotions and actions effectively. For the first half-to-three-quarters, however, the style tended to over-describe everything whilst still managing to leave me slightly confused. One minute she was terrified about getting into a carriage, and we had a great long description about her fear, and her hands gripping the seat, and what the seat felt like, and the next she was marveling at the lights at Vauxhall Gardens. What?! Did I miss something? I don't much like to know about every single footstep or breath, in a kind of he-did-she-did list, but I do like to know which room they are in, or whether they are inside or outside, so I can visualize what's happening.
- Too much drinking tea. I'm a tea addict myself (funny that I only really started to drink tea when I left the UK, but there it is), but the heroine is a working woman. She doesn't have time to time to sit around drinking tea and gossiping all day. That's what the bored ladies of the aristocracy did.
So, I can completely understand why some people ended up filing this under DNF. I struggled through it at several places, but enjoyed the ending and that tackled a side of life that was less pleasant. I might read the second in the series, but I'm not decided yet, and will probably read a few reviews first.
Things I really liked about this one:-
- In some respects, it captures more of the cruelty of Society than all the books that include Almack's or virginal ladies of the Ton. This includes some of the "meat market" of relationships based upon money and power and cynicism, but the relationship in this book is based on kept mistresses, not marriage. The harshness of the lives of women looking for someone to "protect" them is something which HRs usually gloss over or ignore, or only look at from the (reformed or reforming) hero's point-of-view. This book took a fresh approach, which I appreciated.
- The first 30% of this book is written exclusively from the heroine's point-of-view. It completely drove me nuts, and I was almost ready to throw the book out and delete it unfinished from my kindle, BUT then it switched to the hero's point-of-view for about 2 paragraphs, and I realized just how much I'd been lured in to the point where I just couldn't wait to know what was going on in his mind. It was frustrating, and really quite clever. I was totally hooked and reeled in.
- The last few chapters are just excellent. Really, really good. I loved them.
Some things I didn't like so much:-
- There were some inaccuracies which I really struggled with, although, interestingly enough, they were concentrated in the first couple of chapters, and were really basic. For example, London does not have "blocks" in terms of street layout. There are "tower blocks" (aka "high-rises"), but the streets in London and of all the older cities and towns in large parts of Europe, are based on very old, very haphazard cart tracks, and the concept of a "block" is irrelevant. The only city that I can think of in the UK that has a grid system with blocks is Glasgow. Also, I couldn't figure out what "esquire training" is supposed to be. This doesn't exist in the UK. "Esquire" is a vague term that just means "man", and isn't really used much unless someone is trying to ingratiate themselves with you in addressing a letter. It's got nothing to do with the legal profession. For someone studying to enter the legal world, you would say they were "studying for the bar". I guess the author could know something I don't, and be looking for ultra-realism, but I didn't understand it, so it annoyed me a bit.
- None of the characters are really sympathetic at all, and I really couldn't get emotionally invested in any of them. The hero is a lecherous, skirt-chasing creep, quite frankly, and he only partially redeemed himself from my hating him and his overwhelming sexual charisma. His behavior made my skin crawl and would be classified as persistent sexual harassment nowadays. Having said that, he really fits what I visualize when I think of a rake - someone with no morality whatsoever, using tried and tested sexual charisma to get what he wants, before moving on the next shiny object. So, I don't like him, but he feels real. The heroine, meanwhile, doesn't feel real to me. As a shop-girl, and an educated, but realistic, one at that, drilled in good behavior by her mother, she would be fully aware of the risks in doing what the hero makes her do, and for someone so clearly grounded, she really strikes me as TSTL for the first 3/4 of the book. As for her "friend", Georgette, how would anyone ever listen to the words spoken by such an irritating, shallow individual?
- The overblown, prosy writing style just irritated me. It was totally unnecessary since towards the end of the book, the writing becomes lucid, flowing, descriptive without fluffy and communicates emotions and actions effectively. For the first half-to-three-quarters, however, the style tended to over-describe everything whilst still managing to leave me slightly confused. One minute she was terrified about getting into a carriage, and we had a great long description about her fear, and her hands gripping the seat, and what the seat felt like, and the next she was marveling at the lights at Vauxhall Gardens. What?! Did I miss something? I don't much like to know about every single footstep or breath, in a kind of he-did-she-did list, but I do like to know which room they are in, or whether they are inside or outside, so I can visualize what's happening.
- Too much drinking tea. I'm a tea addict myself (funny that I only really started to drink tea when I left the UK, but there it is), but the heroine is a working woman. She doesn't have time to time to sit around drinking tea and gossiping all day. That's what the bored ladies of the aristocracy did.
So, I can completely understand why some people ended up filing this under DNF. I struggled through it at several places, but enjoyed the ending and that tackled a side of life that was less pleasant. I might read the second in the series, but I'm not decided yet, and will probably read a few reviews first.
May 2, 2019
First, a disclaimer.
I read this shortly after an oddly similar book...one that I was 'all in' on-a titled rogue/rake with a lot of rumors and mystery...and an sexually interested but innocent woman. Also, I read the first part without a ton of concentration.
I could see so much promise in the bones of this book. But I just couldn't buy into it. Maxim came off, not as charming or arousing or mysterious, but smarmy. It didn't help that there was a hidden identity or 3 at work, I'm hoping that's not a spoiler because it was so clear--but nothing was convincing. It just felt off for about 60%. I was struggling with the attraction, the motives, and the dialogue was so laced and heavy it just weighed that whole part down. Around 60% there was more depth and relationship-building, but I felt like it came a little late in the game especially considering the characters were so invested. Still, it was at times lovely and sexy, funny and escapist. I will be reading more of Mallory. I just couldn't help feeling that first half was really oddly clinical.
I read this shortly after an oddly similar book...one that I was 'all in' on-a titled rogue/rake with a lot of rumors and mystery...and an sexually interested but innocent woman. Also, I read the first part without a ton of concentration.
I could see so much promise in the bones of this book. But I just couldn't buy into it. Maxim came off, not as charming or arousing or mysterious, but smarmy. It didn't help that there was a hidden identity or 3 at work, I'm hoping that's not a spoiler because it was so clear--but nothing was convincing. It just felt off for about 60%. I was struggling with the attraction, the motives, and the dialogue was so laced and heavy it just weighed that whole part down. Around 60% there was more depth and relationship-building, but I felt like it came a little late in the game especially considering the characters were so invested. Still, it was at times lovely and sexy, funny and escapist. I will be reading more of Mallory. I just couldn't help feeling that first half was really oddly clinical.
December 3, 2025
The ink-stained mate of her soul
— ˗ˋ Original rating: 3 ★ ˊ˗ —
Upon a second read I find myself in the wonderful situation of having liked this more. One of the reason is because,
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
— ˗ˋ Original rating: 3 ★ ˊ˗ —
Upon a second read I find myself in the wonderful situation of having liked this more. One of the reason is because,
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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not-for-me
September 18, 2022Note to self: Hero sets out to seduce the virgin heroine because that’s apparently what he does - debauch innocents. She ends up being different and he takes her as his mistress. He then goes on and arranges to marry OW, and puts in his marriage contract that he plans to retain the heroine as his mistress. Heroine agrees with his plans. 🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮 Who even cares after that?
June 30, 2010
I really enjoyed reading the Seven Secrets of Seduction. Miranda Chase works in her uncle's book shop and becomes involved with Viscount Maximilian Downing. I don't want to give the plot away, but their first meeting is more than accidental. I instantly liked Miranda because she is smart, loyal, and loves to read. Miranda is also innocent, but has a sharp sense of humor that Viscount Downing is immediately drawn to. Viscount Downing...Hmm...I am not sure exactly how I felt about him. He was manipulative, but truly loved Miranda and her "station" (as a shop girl) didn't mean anything to him. I would have rated this book five stars except I didn't like the direction the last part of the story took. The story ended the way I wanted it to, but I didn't like the steps the characters took to get there. I know that probably doesn't make a lot of sense unless a person has read the book. Overall, I am definitely looking forward to Anne Mallory's next story and I am wondering if it will be about one of Viscount Downing's siblings (I sure hope so!)?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2012
FAN-TAS-TIC!!!
October 17, 2016
“You consider me some sort of challenge?”
“I consider you the answer to a question that resides in my very soul.” His eyes held hers, an intensity there that she didn’t understand.
Miranda Chase loves books and reading. Especially the gothic romances that are the latest rage. She loves losing herself between the pages of books, especially the book by a most intriguing author, Seven Secrets of Seduction. It’s hidden layers and meaning captivates her. Her passion for her books soon gains the attention of a viscount when she defends said book to the jaded man.
But he couldn’t even explain it to himself, this need to have her. To break her. To shape her. To remold her.
To keep her exactly as she was and shield her from people just like himself.
Maximilian, Viscount Downing, has definite views and ideas about passion and desire. His debauched reputation is famous among the gossip pages, his use of his sensual ways to procure his latest conquest well known. And he has set his eyes on Miranda, with her innocence and passion for life. But his seduction doesn’t go exactly as planned, and the feelings Miranda arouses in him threatens to derails the plans he has set in motion for his future.
I most desire in life to have an open eye and an open heart. To dream brings both.
Miranda was a great heroine. Her love of books and reading made me like her right from the start. She’s passionate about life and about love, and dreams of adventure. But fear makes her unable to try to get more out of her life. She’s very brave, especially when it came to Maxim, and how willing she was to settle for less because of her love for him was quite admirable, although I didn’t agree with her. But I’m happy that she finally came to her senses, knowing that she deserved more than what he was willing to give her.
Dreams had never gained him a thing. The whims of others were resistant to one’s dreams. But action and manipulation were undeniable. Seduction the darkest and lightest tactic.
Maxim was a difficult character to figure out. At first I hated the games he played with Miranda, because I couldn’t figure out whether he was serious about her. But by the middle of the book his secrets started revealing themselves, his reason for being so interested in Miranda, and his skewed views about love and marriage because of his parents really disastrous marriage. And I felt quite sorry for him, this lonely man who secretly yearns for more, but who’s so disillusioned that he doesn’t believe more exists. So he sets out to get that whom he craves in a way he believes is the only way to keep her. And that was very sad.
“Your lips are the most delicious treat I’ve ever tasted. And I would still love them were they chapped and dry. Still drink from them like the finest crystal because they would give me the essence of you.”
The romance had it’s up and downs, most because I couldn’t figure out why Maxim was trying to seduce Miranda, seeing as she’s a mere shopgirl, knowing it can’t go anywhere. But I must say the way he tried to seduce her, the intensity with which he pursued her was wonderful. And when it was eventually revealed why he was so interesting in Miranda, how crazy he was about her, I swooned a little ;-) I was upset that he was only willing to have her as his mistress, but knowing his really skewed views about love and marriage, I understood. Luckily he came to his senses in the end.
This was a quite sad but passionate love story, with a great HEA. I love this author’s writing. She has a real talent for writing captivating HRs. I’ve only read two books by her, and the other one is a favorite of mine. She’s definitely and HR author to look out for.
September 3, 2011
I did not like it. Characters were not interesting. Plot didn’t do anything for me.
STORY BRIEF:
Miranda works in a bookshop for her uncle. She loved the book titled “Seven Secrets of Seduction.” She has been corresponding with Mr. Pitt who wrote a harsh criticism of the book for the local paper. Maximilian (Max) is a viscount. He visits the bookshop and begins flirting with Miranda. He then hires her to come to his home to reorganize his personal library. He begins seducing her. She tries not to, but she is falling for him. Max’s father had many mistresses causing sadness for his mother. Max believes he can only be happy with a mistress, never a wife.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
Most of the book, until just before the very end, was game playing with words. Max and Miranda were never sincere with each other. It was meaningless chit chat, flirtations, and light barbs that did not interest me. Finally when Miranda discovers a secret about Max, instead of confrontation or discussion, she plays another game, trying to make him uncomfortable (or something I’m not sure what) but not revealing what she knew. It needed more of a story, not just a guy with desire in his eyes and an innocent girl who eventually succumbs. Character wise she is a doormat, willing to accept whatever he offers. I don’t mean to criticize having a doormat as a heroine; my intent is simply describing the type. This could have been better if the dialogue was witty and entertaining. But it wasn’t. There were a few sex scenes, but nothing memorable.
DATA:
Story length: 372 pages. Swearing language: mild. Sexual language: none to mild. Number of sex scenes: 3. Estimated number of sex scene pages: 12. Setting: 1820 London, England. Copyright: 2010. Genre: regency romance.
STORY BRIEF:
Miranda works in a bookshop for her uncle. She loved the book titled “Seven Secrets of Seduction.” She has been corresponding with Mr. Pitt who wrote a harsh criticism of the book for the local paper. Maximilian (Max) is a viscount. He visits the bookshop and begins flirting with Miranda. He then hires her to come to his home to reorganize his personal library. He begins seducing her. She tries not to, but she is falling for him. Max’s father had many mistresses causing sadness for his mother. Max believes he can only be happy with a mistress, never a wife.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
Most of the book, until just before the very end, was game playing with words. Max and Miranda were never sincere with each other. It was meaningless chit chat, flirtations, and light barbs that did not interest me. Finally when Miranda discovers a secret about Max, instead of confrontation or discussion, she plays another game, trying to make him uncomfortable (or something I’m not sure what) but not revealing what she knew. It needed more of a story, not just a guy with desire in his eyes and an innocent girl who eventually succumbs. Character wise she is a doormat, willing to accept whatever he offers. I don’t mean to criticize having a doormat as a heroine; my intent is simply describing the type. This could have been better if the dialogue was witty and entertaining. But it wasn’t. There were a few sex scenes, but nothing memorable.
DATA:
Story length: 372 pages. Swearing language: mild. Sexual language: none to mild. Number of sex scenes: 3. Estimated number of sex scene pages: 12. Setting: 1820 London, England. Copyright: 2010. Genre: regency romance.
September 29, 2018
This review can be also found on my blog!
4.5 seductive stars“You will be my conscience, and I will be your shame.”
I am a little bit in love with this book. When it comes to romance it is hard to convince people that a book sometimes is not about romance but people. For example, the first kiss in "Seven secrets of seduction" does not happen until very far into the book; characters simply seduce each other with their intelligence. But there's nothing simple about such kind of seduction.
The story opens with a scene in a bookstore where our characters meet for the first time. And for quite some time they simply discus books. We don't really care who and why they are as long as they give us that joyous feeling of being privy to a very... um, stimulating conversation about books and authors. I was simply aroused by hero and heroine's dialogue. I will argue that it really takes talent to write a smexy story about books. A book after my own heart indeed. “You read a lot?"
"Yes. It's an escape into another world." She tried to keep her words light instead of sad, thoughts of her family in her head. "Sometimes that is the best part of a hard day.”
Don't be fooled by another abs alert cover; this story is deep and meaningful and at times quite painful. Simply put, "Seven secrets of seduction" is one more prove books can assist two lonely people in finding each other over millions of people and hundreds of miles away. And my inner romantic absolutely believes in the sentiment.
August 22, 2010
I really really enjoyed this book. At its heart, it is a simple story, but the characters are so wonderfully alive that it becomes very engaging. The interplay between the hero and heroine was wonderful, and I also loved the author's nod to classic Shakespearean comedy.
There were no villains in this book. And I loved that - too often that layer to HR feels false or forced to me. This was just a wonderfully fun story, told skillfully. I will definitely be looking into other books by Anne Mallory.
There were no villains in this book. And I loved that - too often that layer to HR feels false or forced to me. This was just a wonderfully fun story, told skillfully. I will definitely be looking into other books by Anne Mallory.
April 21, 2013
Miranda Chase, runs her uncle's bookshop, and has a passion for a good read. While totally captivated in the newest gothic novel, she is interrupted by a stranger who makes her think of silken sheets and temptation beyond her wildest dreams. When there is a mix up in his book order, she heads off to return his book to him. She there learns that he is none other than The Viscount Downing, the one man that is notorious for his sensuality and power. Miranda knows that she in trouble when she reluctantly agrees to take on a project, organize Max's library to a sense of order. Miranda is there day after day, and finds herself starting to feel being seduced, and though there is a part of her that resists, there is a larger part that only aches for his touch. Max, knew that Miranda was the one woman he wants to seduce more than any other. Her sweet innocence calls out to him in a way that he has never known. Miranda finds herself falling in love with the scoundrel who makes her burn, but she suspects he is hiding a secret, a secret that could tear their love apart.For the most part I have truly enjoyed reading this author. It usually takes me a few chapters to get into her books, but once I get fully into them I am totally hooked. This book is the first in her Secrets series. From the first few pages, I was captivated. It started out instantly able to grab the readers attention. There is also such a unique sensuality about this book. Maximilian is total Rake and Rogue type, loves the pleasures of the bedchamber and see's Miranda has unique and has never seduced, he see's her as a challenge. He is very bold and full on sexiness. I found him to be irresistable at times, Miranda I found to be at time a complex character, a liked her quite a bit for the most part. She seemed to be independent and strong willed but also went after what she wanted. Although there were times that portions of the books had flowery writing, I also found that it held a unique freshness about it, that made me only want to read more. There is also such a sizzling chemistry and sensuality to this book. I almost felt like as the reader this book was seducing me as well. Even though it wasn't my favorite from this author, I would highly recommend this to anyone that like a historical romance full of sensuality and freshness that will only entice you!!! A read you don't want to miss out on.
December 20, 2011
Miranda Chase works her Uncle's bookstore without any hesitation, for her love of books is her only true passion. Not one to step out in society, Miranda has chosen to live her life in a small literary circle, usually only reading about adventures.
When Maximilian, Viscount Downing enters the store while Miranda is fully emersed in a fascinating novel he is completely entranced by the woman with a firm tongue and independent streak. Maxim finds ways to get closer to Miranda, wanting to keep her close to his side and never let her go. But Maxim's life is filled with secrets that could destroy his greatest treasure of all, Miranda.
What a glorious read, unable to put down. My heart went out to Maxim who isa mischevious rake, but Miranda sees through his bad boy exterior and often calls his bluff. This is a one sitting book with a box of chocolate, bottle of merlot and a cozy blanket to enjoy this treasure.
When Maximilian, Viscount Downing enters the store while Miranda is fully emersed in a fascinating novel he is completely entranced by the woman with a firm tongue and independent streak. Maxim finds ways to get closer to Miranda, wanting to keep her close to his side and never let her go. But Maxim's life is filled with secrets that could destroy his greatest treasure of all, Miranda.
What a glorious read, unable to put down. My heart went out to Maxim who isa mischevious rake, but Miranda sees through his bad boy exterior and often calls his bluff. This is a one sitting book with a box of chocolate, bottle of merlot and a cozy blanket to enjoy this treasure.
January 29, 2016
I had a hard time figuring out how I ought to rate this book. I think the author could have done so much with the set-up. I feel I was built up for this spectacular story and it quite didn't get there. I absolutely loved the heroine. She was perfect in every way. The hero was ok too, I just wish there was more from his POV so we'd get to know some more about the reasons behind his actions. I also felt like the ending was too abrupt and rushed. In my opinion the last chapter should have been 5 chapters where we read every letter they exchanged... The last, rushed chapter knocked a star from my raiting.
Though the story had a good plot and the characters were more than interesting, I just simply couldn't find myself to love this book. I wasn't disappointed or bored when I read it but it didn't stand out in a good way either, hence 3 stars. But I liked this one enough to look forward to some more books by Ms. Mallory.
Though the story had a good plot and the characters were more than interesting, I just simply couldn't find myself to love this book. I wasn't disappointed or bored when I read it but it didn't stand out in a good way either, hence 3 stars. But I liked this one enough to look forward to some more books by Ms. Mallory.
May 10, 2012
I've read this book 1.5 times, considering how I started this book last year and had to reread it to figure out what's going on. The first time I read it, I was having trouble getting into the book. The 2nd time around, it didn't feel any different, except I really wanted to finish the book, so I am going to conclude that the first half of the book is kinda slow. But the fact is, the entire book is kinda slow. This doesn't mean that it was a bad book, but Ms Mallory relied on subtle emotion and a unexceptional, antimelodramatical situations to convey a beautiful love story.
Miranda Chase is a shopgirl in a bookstore. Yep, she's a honest working girl with a passion for books, especially an interesting novel passed around the Ton called the Seven Secrets of Seduction. She is so intrigued with the words in the book, that she starts a correspondance with the author and another with the author's critic. Anyway, the hero, Lord Maxwell Downing (a viscount, I believe) enters the scene as she reads on the job. He's a cynical man who disguises his emotions by masquerading as an infamous rake. He takes an interest in Miranda and manuvers her to organize her library - though what he's really doing is setting the stage up for a full out seduction. And so, the pair begin a psuedo- Master/Employee relationship, but Maxwell is secretly just trying to secure her as his mistress. The problem is, neither of them want to commit to their relationship because as Miranda adequately states:
"You (Maxwell) will always wait for me to leave you. I will always wait for you to tire of me."
As you can tell, I loved the angst. This was the theme, that neither believed that they could be together forever, that carried the entire book. So, yes, it's slow, but it's also gutwrenching and the expression of emotions felt more real to me. Miranda knew that Maxwell was manipulating her, but she she loved him and didn't want to leave (and she does this without the melodrama). Maxwell is just a tad bit angsty under his gets-what-he-wants attitude. He feels guilty for keeping Miranda, but feels like marrying for love would lead to disaster like his own dumb parents (who scandalize the ton by taking lovers and flaunting them to each other).
I loved the feelings this book invoked from me, but it was a tad bit slow and uneventful that keeps it from being a 5 star book. I was also confused (possibly zoning out for lack of action) during the first half, and their courtship was not detailed and only lightly touched upon. I don't think EVERYONE would enjoy it, but those who like a little bit of subtle angst, a bookish pair of protagonists, and courtesan/mistress theme, would like this book.
Miranda Chase is a shopgirl in a bookstore. Yep, she's a honest working girl with a passion for books, especially an interesting novel passed around the Ton called the Seven Secrets of Seduction. She is so intrigued with the words in the book, that she starts a correspondance with the author and another with the author's critic. Anyway, the hero, Lord Maxwell Downing (a viscount, I believe) enters the scene as she reads on the job. He's a cynical man who disguises his emotions by masquerading as an infamous rake. He takes an interest in Miranda and manuvers her to organize her library - though what he's really doing is setting the stage up for a full out seduction. And so, the pair begin a psuedo- Master/Employee relationship, but Maxwell is secretly just trying to secure her as his mistress. The problem is, neither of them want to commit to their relationship because as Miranda adequately states:
"You (Maxwell) will always wait for me to leave you. I will always wait for you to tire of me."
As you can tell, I loved the angst. This was the theme, that neither believed that they could be together forever, that carried the entire book. So, yes, it's slow, but it's also gutwrenching and the expression of emotions felt more real to me. Miranda knew that Maxwell was manipulating her, but she she loved him and didn't want to leave (and she does this without the melodrama). Maxwell is just a tad bit angsty under his gets-what-he-wants attitude. He feels guilty for keeping Miranda, but feels like marrying for love would lead to disaster like his own dumb parents (who scandalize the ton by taking lovers and flaunting them to each other).
I loved the feelings this book invoked from me, but it was a tad bit slow and uneventful that keeps it from being a 5 star book. I was also confused (possibly zoning out for lack of action) during the first half, and their courtship was not detailed and only lightly touched upon. I don't think EVERYONE would enjoy it, but those who like a little bit of subtle angst, a bookish pair of protagonists, and courtesan/mistress theme, would like this book.
July 3, 2011
A seduction using wit, a brush of a hand, a whispered word...
The catalyst for this historical romance is a titillating book titled The Seven Secrets to Seducation written by a referred to character named Eleutherios. It's 1820 and Miranda Chase is a shopgirl working in a bookstore. Maximilian, Viscount Downing arrives at the bookstore to pick up a package. Miranda and Maxim thereby begin a lively and witty discussion about Eleutherios' great selling book. Eventually, these two characters make a wager. Maxim states he can seduce Miranda in a week. She says she can resist. But the scandal-ridden Viscount Dowling an erotic adventure this daydreaming shopgirl can't resist.
The characters are complex and well-written. At first, Maxim seemed conceited, ignoble, and predatory in his pursuit to seduce Miranda. (He's a viscount and she's a shopgirl.) How would the author redeem his character? Maxim seemed a scoundrel and I was afraid I wouldn't like him. Ms. Mallory laid that fear to rest. As for Miranda, she is intelligent, fairly independent for the time, fearless in her banter, and she never comes across as being a victim. She is also insightful and sees through Maxim's "masks" to love the man. Miranda is even brave enough to do what is necessary for her well-being.
The relationship between the the two cahracters seemed unbalanced at the beginning. (Maxim's motivation isn't revealed until later in the book.) Eventually, there is a power shift from Maxim to Miranda, which was a such a delight and I read with relish.
Seven Secrets of Seducation is a lovely historical romance. Once I lost my impatience for a villainous plot to unravel and Maxim's feelings were revealed I was able to savor this seduction of the mind, body, and soul. Overall, I believe this book deserves a solid B.
Memorable Quote:
The catalyst for this historical romance is a titillating book titled The Seven Secrets to Seducation written by a referred to character named Eleutherios. It's 1820 and Miranda Chase is a shopgirl working in a bookstore. Maximilian, Viscount Downing arrives at the bookstore to pick up a package. Miranda and Maxim thereby begin a lively and witty discussion about Eleutherios' great selling book. Eventually, these two characters make a wager. Maxim states he can seduce Miranda in a week. She says she can resist. But the scandal-ridden Viscount Dowling an erotic adventure this daydreaming shopgirl can't resist.
The characters are complex and well-written. At first, Maxim seemed conceited, ignoble, and predatory in his pursuit to seduce Miranda. (He's a viscount and she's a shopgirl.) How would the author redeem his character? Maxim seemed a scoundrel and I was afraid I wouldn't like him. Ms. Mallory laid that fear to rest. As for Miranda, she is intelligent, fairly independent for the time, fearless in her banter, and she never comes across as being a victim. She is also insightful and sees through Maxim's "masks" to love the man. Miranda is even brave enough to do what is necessary for her well-being.
The relationship between the the two cahracters seemed unbalanced at the beginning. (Maxim's motivation isn't revealed until later in the book.) Eventually, there is a power shift from Maxim to Miranda, which was a such a delight and I read with relish.
Seven Secrets of Seducation is a lovely historical romance. Once I lost my impatience for a villainous plot to unravel and Maxim's feelings were revealed I was able to savor this seduction of the mind, body, and soul. Overall, I believe this book deserves a solid B.
Memorable Quote:
Here was a man who challenged her in all ways. Who thrilled her intellectually on paper, who captivated her with his words, who physically flooded her senses. Who was every man that she had desired on any level she could comprehend.
April 9, 2019
Is Lord Downing the physical manifestation of that One Direction song about what makes you beautiful is not knowing that you're beautiful?
Yes. Yes he is.
Sure, this guy can make saying, "Are you wroth with me?" work, but I'm with Miranda. Nobody was buying his whole I-want-to-uncover-your-true-self-simplybecause-I-want-to act. The story was a bit bland when we were all pretending to go along with this charade at first.
I wanted to feel like this:
But because 90% of the time Miranda was like this:
It didn't click, and I still think there was too much using going on. I just don't like stories that feel Pygmalion, especially if the hero is the one doing it, and I found a lot of his words and actions patronizing. This is a very strange comment to make, coming from a BD fan in a genre that's more or less filled with traditional heroes that have done worse than force a heroine to rise above her station by taking the front steps or getting new clothes. But what can I say? Downing used Miranda a lot. Not just for his family but for his project. I also cringed reading that scene when Miranda realizes, oh yes I'm not the only he must have had trussed up in this room. It's very BD thing to do for a hero, but then Downing is also not a BD hero. BD heroes typically go through their own trial, whereas Downing is never punished for his manipulations. Instead, all we're supposed to get out of that is that he's a fan of Shakespeare. Or something. It still sits with me wrong, even if Miranda more or less makes her peace with it. Until the ending, that is. That was a pretty strong reveal. And always the ending is sigh-worthy. So it's four stars! I liked it, and I may have to give this a reread to see if my feelings change now that I know what happens.
Yes. Yes he is.
Sure, this guy can make saying, "Are you wroth with me?" work, but I'm with Miranda. Nobody was buying his whole I-want-to-uncover-your-true-self-simplybecause-I-want-to act. The story was a bit bland when we were all pretending to go along with this charade at first.
I wanted to feel like this:
But because 90% of the time Miranda was like this:
It didn't click, and I still think there was too much using going on. I just don't like stories that feel Pygmalion, especially if the hero is the one doing it, and I found a lot of his words and actions patronizing. This is a very strange comment to make, coming from a BD fan in a genre that's more or less filled with traditional heroes that have done worse than force a heroine to rise above her station by taking the front steps or getting new clothes. But what can I say? Downing used Miranda a lot. Not just for his family but for his project. I also cringed reading that scene when Miranda realizes, oh yes I'm not the only he must have had trussed up in this room. It's very BD thing to do for a hero, but then Downing is also not a BD hero. BD heroes typically go through their own trial, whereas Downing is never punished for his manipulations. Instead, all we're supposed to get out of that is that he's a fan of Shakespeare. Or something. It still sits with me wrong, even if Miranda more or less makes her peace with it. Until the ending, that is. That was a pretty strong reveal. And always the ending is sigh-worthy. So it's four stars! I liked it, and I may have to give this a reread to see if my feelings change now that I know what happens.
January 12, 2012
Just awful. I can't believe that this book was rated A on All About Romance. Rather than even attempt my own review, I'll just quote from my friend Moss:
Painfully slow, dripping with entendres that fall embarassingly flat, the limpest and most feeble of plots to prop it up, a hero and heroine who try to be much cleverer than they are and pitiful scraps of sexy times that whimper and drag themselves away with shame before your brain can process them.
I'd like to say I loathed this book, but the truth is I'm wearily resigned by now to things like this cropping up every now and again in this genre: self-conscious parodies of romance, stripping themselves of the chance of experiencing the escapist joy and the silly ebullience that is the gift of the genre. Of course there's the other mark to aim for -- the slow burn of some smouldering set-up -- but Mallory misses that, too, though god knows she tries with every straining, overworked, gasping sentence.
What you're left with is an inexorable, absolutely bloody wearying dullness.
Not recommended.
April 20, 2012
Loved the book! I don't think I can express everything I felt, but I think this novel really won me over. There were times I felt that little improvements could be made, cause really, I wanted more of the hero's POV than there actually is, but then again it's just my opinion.
Seductive and sinfully charming is what I would call Viscount Downing, he made me want to smile.
The story, for a short period of time, got a little, err- what to say- monotonous in the middle somewhere and just when I thought that it was going to turn out a little less amazing then I'd actually hoped it would be, it picked up rhythm again. And a fabulous rhythm it was. :D
Really good book, it has me intrigued about the writer, since this is my first book by her. I can't give it a 5 star review because it really didn't match up to that level for me. But I liked the concept and the story, and it did make me pine for more in the series. A really good read, I hope y'all love it too!
Seductive and sinfully charming is what I would call Viscount Downing, he made me want to smile.
The story, for a short period of time, got a little, err- what to say- monotonous in the middle somewhere and just when I thought that it was going to turn out a little less amazing then I'd actually hoped it would be, it picked up rhythm again. And a fabulous rhythm it was. :D
Really good book, it has me intrigued about the writer, since this is my first book by her. I can't give it a 5 star review because it really didn't match up to that level for me. But I liked the concept and the story, and it did make me pine for more in the series. A really good read, I hope y'all love it too!
September 27, 2010
I gave this book two stars just because it had a satisfactory ending but all in all I did not like this story at all. The hero, Maximilian, aka Lord Downing was not a likable character. He was so full of himself throughout the story and treated the heroine, Miranda Chase quite shabbily. It was very hard to find some redeeming aspect in his character.
Sadly, the heroine Miranda Chase was no better in my eyes. The author initially described Miranda as a practical shop girl, who had a passion for books and had just a touch of the bluestocking in her. However, her decisions throughout this book were a bit idiotic and showed a lack of intelligence that did not fit in with the author's initial characterization of her. I expected a strong, intelligent young woman who would bring the arrogant Lord Downing to his knees but got the opposite. All in all, this book was a disappointment.
Sadly, the heroine Miranda Chase was no better in my eyes. The author initially described Miranda as a practical shop girl, who had a passion for books and had just a touch of the bluestocking in her. However, her decisions throughout this book were a bit idiotic and showed a lack of intelligence that did not fit in with the author's initial characterization of her. I expected a strong, intelligent young woman who would bring the arrogant Lord Downing to his knees but got the opposite. All in all, this book was a disappointment.
August 20, 2022
Miranda Chase is a shopgirl in a bookstore who has a problem: an extremely annoying Viscount Downing won't leave her alone. From his salacious flirtation to "accidentally" taking the wrong package so that Miranda will have to visit him to rectify the error, she's baffled as to why the viscount is messing with her. He has a "love 'em and leave 'em" reputation, what could he possibly want with her?
That's the big question of the entire book! The POV is almost solely with Miranda, so while she's being tugged this way and that by the charismatic aristocrat, so are we. You can piece it together before the big reveal, but that doesn't make it any less satisfying.
That's the big question of the entire book! The POV is almost solely with Miranda, so while she's being tugged this way and that by the charismatic aristocrat, so are we. You can piece it together before the big reveal, but that doesn't make it any less satisfying.
May 1, 2024
August 2023 update: fuck it, upping my rating to 5 stars after rereading my notes and thinking about this book daily for 4 months.
May 2023 review: 4.5 stars
Oh my god I swooned! I stand by my claim that Mallory's back-and-forths often go on for too long, for me; but the sensuality of this book made me blush to my ears. So many tender words! Tender touches! She really does know how to alight the senses with anticipation.
May 2023 review: 4.5 stars
Oh my god I swooned! I stand by my claim that Mallory's back-and-forths often go on for too long, for me; but the sensuality of this book made me blush to my ears. So many tender words! Tender touches! She really does know how to alight the senses with anticipation.
September 21, 2012
#1:Every good seduction first begins with a baited hook.
#2:Once the hook is in place the lure must be set
#3:Pull forth or use the unexpected.Create havoc and relish in the chaos.Put her off guard even if she is on guard at the same time.
#4:Never lose control...and never let another pull your strings without your consent.Own your own thoughts.Know your confidense and she will fall at your feet.
#5:Some are more pipe for sedution cthan the others.But the sweetest fruit is the woman who doesnt realise she is plump on the vine.The one who brusts upon your tongue as soon as you set lips on her.
#6:Find the secret.What (she)he keeps hidden from others.Thats the key to his(her) embrace.(annotated by Miranda Chase).
#7:Turn the key.Open the lock and take the treasure within.And once the key is found...never let it go.
I suppose I will just have to make sure that I marry someone I look forward to curling around every morning. Whom I can't be without before breakfast. Or in the noon. Whom I need to race home to see after each appointment. Determined to lock her in my rooms, not because I need to hide anything but because I'd just as soon have her all to myself. To look upon her beloved face and hear her lips whisper in my ear.
7 secrets of seduction is a book.A book inside the book.Eleutherios wrote a book with the title 7 secrets of seduction(you can see them above).The book cause a debate between Max and Miranda.The book was filled with books(one more reason to like it).Max hires Miranda to organise his liblary.He has many secrets but some of them are very easy to find out.
Lies from the closest to you are often the most numerous and paralyzing.
The book 3 weeks after I read it is still on my mind.So that must mean something.
Better to leave dreams behind and go forward with purpose.
Sometimes one appears to have more freedom than one actually possesses. It is easy to see what one wishes to see.
No one is fine on his own. People just say they are.
P.S A sneak peek from Eleutherios's next book:The 8 elements of enchantment:
Element #1:It isnt just essential to entice your prey but you must make absolutely certain that you are the only thing on her mind morning,moon or night.
#2: when you find the perfect spicemam to enchant you,you must make sure to guard yourself in return.For enchantment,like seduction,can quickly turn upon the enchanter.If something should go wrong with the initial plan,step back and reformulate.Never undertake a new tack precipitously.This is a sign that cards has turned against you and you are at your opponents favor.
#2:Once the hook is in place the lure must be set
#3:Pull forth or use the unexpected.Create havoc and relish in the chaos.Put her off guard even if she is on guard at the same time.
#4:Never lose control...and never let another pull your strings without your consent.Own your own thoughts.Know your confidense and she will fall at your feet.
#5:Some are more pipe for sedution cthan the others.But the sweetest fruit is the woman who doesnt realise she is plump on the vine.The one who brusts upon your tongue as soon as you set lips on her.
#6:Find the secret.What (she)he keeps hidden from others.Thats the key to his(her) embrace.(annotated by Miranda Chase).
#7:Turn the key.Open the lock and take the treasure within.And once the key is found...never let it go.
I suppose I will just have to make sure that I marry someone I look forward to curling around every morning. Whom I can't be without before breakfast. Or in the noon. Whom I need to race home to see after each appointment. Determined to lock her in my rooms, not because I need to hide anything but because I'd just as soon have her all to myself. To look upon her beloved face and hear her lips whisper in my ear.
7 secrets of seduction is a book.A book inside the book.Eleutherios wrote a book with the title 7 secrets of seduction(you can see them above).The book cause a debate between Max and Miranda.The book was filled with books(one more reason to like it).Max hires Miranda to organise his liblary.He has many secrets but some of them are very easy to find out.
Lies from the closest to you are often the most numerous and paralyzing.
The book 3 weeks after I read it is still on my mind.So that must mean something.
Better to leave dreams behind and go forward with purpose.
Sometimes one appears to have more freedom than one actually possesses. It is easy to see what one wishes to see.
No one is fine on his own. People just say they are.
P.S A sneak peek from Eleutherios's next book:The 8 elements of enchantment:
Element #1:It isnt just essential to entice your prey but you must make absolutely certain that you are the only thing on her mind morning,moon or night.
#2: when you find the perfect spicemam to enchant you,you must make sure to guard yourself in return.For enchantment,like seduction,can quickly turn upon the enchanter.If something should go wrong with the initial plan,step back and reformulate.Never undertake a new tack precipitously.This is a sign that cards has turned against you and you are at your opponents favor.
January 18, 2016
The beginning was so fun but near the end it became such a sad story that I began to doubt in HEA for the heroes. And by the end I loved them both dearly. They was such a nice couple. Well, I'm not sure if I'm glad that author didn't show us how he broke the engagement or not. This way I can dream that is was Charlotte who broke it off cause she hoped for true love too. I'm romantic like that. I also was confused with her uncle. How he could be so negligent I have no idea. And what with all that thoughts of taking lovers between innocent girls? Something was very wrong in that department like during their first night together when heroine didn't feel even slightest inconvenience. Well, it was a good story altogether although I'm not completely satisfied because of all mentioned above.
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