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Black Cobra Quartet #4
The Reckless Bride
Four bold, brave, and determined ex-officers of the Crown band together to destroy the traitorous fiend known as the Black Cobra.
He races to complete their mission against escalating odds -- his task made more perilous when he loses his heart.
She's determined to defy convention and live a solitary life -- until she tastes the reckless pleasure found only in his arms.
Drawn together by fate, united by fiery passion, they pursue their shared destiny...one they'll live to see only if they unmask the Black Cobra.
He races to complete their mission against escalating odds -- his task made more perilous when he loses his heart.
She's determined to defy convention and live a solitary life -- until she tastes the reckless pleasure found only in his arms.
Drawn together by fate, united by fiery passion, they pursue their shared destiny...one they'll live to see only if they unmask the Black Cobra.
449 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published November 1, 2010
168 people are currently reading
1492 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Laurens
206 books5,588 followersStephanie Laurens was born in Sri Lanka, which was at the time the British colony of Ceylon. When she was 5, her family moved to Melbourne, Australia, where she was raised. After continuing through school and earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry in Australia, Stephanie and her husband moved to Great Britain, taking one of the last true overland journeys from Katmandu to London.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
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January 11, 2022
The Reckless Bride
4 Stars
Series note: As with the previous books in the series, this final installment takes place in parallel with the first three. New information concerning the ongoing plot is added in each book and as such, the series should be read in order.
Similar to book #2, the couple travels across the Middle East and Northern Europe. Once again. Laurens' attention to geographical and historical detail is excellent, and it is interesting to follow Rafe and Loretta's journey, which is, thankfully, not as tedious as Gareth and Emily's.
While not as independent or compelling a heroine as Linnet, Loretta is likable and has none of Emily's immature self-absorption. Like the other heroes in the series, Rafe is honorable and respectful, and not nearly as reckless as his nickname implies. He and Loretta have a strong attraction, but their romance develops at a slower and more believable pace.
In terms of the ongoing Black Cobra plot, my suspicion as to the identity of the villain is correct and it is very apt that they are brought down by . The climax and resolution are very satisfying and the epilogue summing up the various relationships is endearing.
Overall, this has been an entertaining series, and I particularly enjoyed the inclusion of couples from both the Bastion Club and the original Cynster series'.
4 Stars
Series note: As with the previous books in the series, this final installment takes place in parallel with the first three. New information concerning the ongoing plot is added in each book and as such, the series should be read in order.
Similar to book #2, the couple travels across the Middle East and Northern Europe. Once again. Laurens' attention to geographical and historical detail is excellent, and it is interesting to follow Rafe and Loretta's journey, which is, thankfully, not as tedious as Gareth and Emily's.
While not as independent or compelling a heroine as Linnet, Loretta is likable and has none of Emily's immature self-absorption. Like the other heroes in the series, Rafe is honorable and respectful, and not nearly as reckless as his nickname implies. He and Loretta have a strong attraction, but their romance develops at a slower and more believable pace.
In terms of the ongoing Black Cobra plot, my suspicion as to the identity of the villain is correct and it is very apt that they are brought down by . The climax and resolution are very satisfying and the epilogue summing up the various relationships is endearing.
Overall, this has been an entertaining series, and I particularly enjoyed the inclusion of couples from both the Bastion Club and the original Cynster series'.
May 24, 2011
PATHETIC!!!!
So, by the time, the harrowed audience will reach the fourth book, the Cult of Black Cobra's stuff has been beaten silly to a pulp. We are sick of listening to it.
And the heroine of this novel is so irritating, it is beyond me to comment.
Selfish, lacking an imagination and mind you, idiotically stubborn. I have never disliked a Stephanie Lauren heroine as much as Loretta.
If I were a man I would be running in the opposite direction. There is a dire threat of Black cult's assassins at every step and all our heroine cares about is how to experience and learn about 'f*cking'. JEEZ! Her exact word, folks, "I learned, I experienced, and now I have to think about what I learned and experienced.” See, I rest my case!&-&
And Rafe got my vote for just putting up with her. I assure you had this been one long novel with the action, character building and more accurate pacing of the events enfolding without all those whimpering 'sex-scenes', this would have been an enjoyable read.
I am seriously asking myself, why do I bother with SL anymore??
So, by the time, the harrowed audience will reach the fourth book, the Cult of Black Cobra's stuff has been beaten silly to a pulp. We are sick of listening to it.
And the heroine of this novel is so irritating, it is beyond me to comment.
Selfish, lacking an imagination and mind you, idiotically stubborn. I have never disliked a Stephanie Lauren heroine as much as Loretta.
If I were a man I would be running in the opposite direction. There is a dire threat of Black cult's assassins at every step and all our heroine cares about is how to experience and learn about 'f*cking'. JEEZ! Her exact word, folks, "I learned, I experienced, and now I have to think about what I learned and experienced.” See, I rest my case!&-&
And Rafe got my vote for just putting up with her. I assure you had this been one long novel with the action, character building and more accurate pacing of the events enfolding without all those whimpering 'sex-scenes', this would have been an enjoyable read.
I am seriously asking myself, why do I bother with SL anymore??
September 8, 2019
Sbg buku penutup dari seri Black Cobra ini, saya antara kecewa dan puas dgn novel ini. Kecewa krn ceritanya masih saja dilambat-lambatkan. Puas krn musuhnya tidak terduga.
Rafe Carstairs adalah pemegang bukti asli yg bisa menjatuhkan Black Cobra. Dalam perjalanannya kembali ke Inggris, Rafe mengambil rute tercepat yaitu melalui daratan Eropa Timur ke Eropa Barat. Tapi krn gangguan tanpa henti dari antek-antek Black Cobra, Rafe malah yg terakhir tiba di Inggris. Dlm perjalanannya tsb Rafe bertemu dgn janda tua Esme yg membawa keponakannya yg masih muda, Loretta balik ke Inggris setelah puas dgn tur mereka di Eropa.
Awalnya Rafe dan Loretta spt jinak-jinak merpati, pura-pura saling tidak menyukai dan sibuk menghindar satu sama lain. Tapi tidak butuh waktu lama akhirnya mereka saling menyukai juga apalagi sejak mereka mengetahui misi utama Rafe. Di perjalanan tsb, Rafe sempat kecele mengira segerombolan penjahat mengejar dirinya. Ternyata bukan cuma Rafe yg dikejar-kejar. Esme juga punya rahasia yg berharga yg membuat dirinya dikejar-kejar di Eropa juga.
Di novel ini saya dimanjakan dgn pengetahuan berbagai katedral/gereja dan istana bersejarah di sepanjang Eropa Timur ke Eropa Barat ini krn Loretta mirip dgn saya yg menyukai segala yg berbau sejarah. Petualangan Rafe dan Loretta layak dibaca krn seru dan pemukulan para penjahat oleh para wanita membuat saya ketawa dlm hati membayangkannya.
Karakter Rafe tidak se-seru yg saya prediksikan. Digadang-gadang sbg yg paling slebor diantara ke-4 perwira, di novel ini Rafe justru tidak menampilkan sosok yg ceroboh ataupun terlalu gloomy oleh kematian James MacFarlane. Tetap saja karakter hero buatan author selalu tampil kompeten dan cekatan alias terlalu sempurna.
Tapi jangan mengira Loretta adalah lady yg lemah dan melulu menjemukan dgn pengetahuan sejarah dan kemampuan menulisnya. Terkadang wanita juga bisa tidak bisa diprediksi apalagi saat dirinya terancam.
"Wanita lebih mematikan daripada pria."
Apaan sih? Ya harus dibaca, kalau nggak itu namanya spoiler.
Rafe Carstairs adalah pemegang bukti asli yg bisa menjatuhkan Black Cobra. Dalam perjalanannya kembali ke Inggris, Rafe mengambil rute tercepat yaitu melalui daratan Eropa Timur ke Eropa Barat. Tapi krn gangguan tanpa henti dari antek-antek Black Cobra, Rafe malah yg terakhir tiba di Inggris. Dlm perjalanannya tsb Rafe bertemu dgn janda tua Esme yg membawa keponakannya yg masih muda, Loretta balik ke Inggris setelah puas dgn tur mereka di Eropa.
Awalnya Rafe dan Loretta spt jinak-jinak merpati, pura-pura saling tidak menyukai dan sibuk menghindar satu sama lain. Tapi tidak butuh waktu lama akhirnya mereka saling menyukai juga apalagi sejak mereka mengetahui misi utama Rafe. Di perjalanan tsb, Rafe sempat kecele mengira segerombolan penjahat mengejar dirinya. Ternyata bukan cuma Rafe yg dikejar-kejar. Esme juga punya rahasia yg berharga yg membuat dirinya dikejar-kejar di Eropa juga.
Di novel ini saya dimanjakan dgn pengetahuan berbagai katedral/gereja dan istana bersejarah di sepanjang Eropa Timur ke Eropa Barat ini krn Loretta mirip dgn saya yg menyukai segala yg berbau sejarah. Petualangan Rafe dan Loretta layak dibaca krn seru dan pemukulan para penjahat oleh para wanita membuat saya ketawa dlm hati membayangkannya.
Karakter Rafe tidak se-seru yg saya prediksikan. Digadang-gadang sbg yg paling slebor diantara ke-4 perwira, di novel ini Rafe justru tidak menampilkan sosok yg ceroboh ataupun terlalu gloomy oleh kematian James MacFarlane. Tetap saja karakter hero buatan author selalu tampil kompeten dan cekatan alias terlalu sempurna.
Tapi jangan mengira Loretta adalah lady yg lemah dan melulu menjemukan dgn pengetahuan sejarah dan kemampuan menulisnya. Terkadang wanita juga bisa tidak bisa diprediksi apalagi saat dirinya terancam.
"Wanita lebih mematikan daripada pria."
Apaan sih? Ya harus dibaca, kalau nggak itu namanya spoiler.
June 26, 2016
Wow. Okay. Y'all know what they say about Assuming things, right?
Ms. Laurens definitely got me with that twist which was revealed about the true identity of the Black Cobra. I mean, wow. I blinked, froze for a moment and mentally re-evaluated every single scene that this person was involved in... Then I kicked myself for missing the signs.
This, the final installment of the Black Cobra Quartet was wonderful. Indeed, the entire series as a whole was wonderful. Each book was unique in its own way even if the main male characters were all on the same mission with the same goal in mind. I greatly enjoyed these works, and will definitely be going back, so to speak, to read the Cynster Novels and Bastian Club novels that I missed out on, since these books were the first by this author that I had seen.
Ms. Laurens definitely got me with that twist which was revealed about the true identity of the Black Cobra. I mean, wow. I blinked, froze for a moment and mentally re-evaluated every single scene that this person was involved in... Then I kicked myself for missing the signs.
This, the final installment of the Black Cobra Quartet was wonderful. Indeed, the entire series as a whole was wonderful. Each book was unique in its own way even if the main male characters were all on the same mission with the same goal in mind. I greatly enjoyed these works, and will definitely be going back, so to speak, to read the Cynster Novels and Bastian Club novels that I missed out on, since these books were the first by this author that I had seen.
October 28, 2011
This was more of a 3.5*, but definitely not 4* - it just took too long for the story to really get going - maybe it's just been too long since I read book 3. The secondary mystery was a good touch, tho, and actually kept my interest in the story until the cultists started seriously showing up. The conclusion was a nice twist - I think I should have seen it coming sooner than I did, but at least I figured it out before any of the good guys did! All in all, a good ending to the series.
August 21, 2012
This was Stephanhie Laurens's last chance with me. This series made the Bastion Club look almost readable. She did nothing but change the route and character's names to produce four really bad books instead of just one. Bringing in the Cynsters at the end of each book does not make the book any better. She needs to develop a new plot or hang up her pen.
November 15, 2019
This was a fun romantic read. I liked the way the author gave so much agency to her female characters, and there was none of that dubious consent/alpha male crap which was refreshing. However the flowery over-descriptive prose was a bit tiring to read and then end was very schmaltzy and everything got tied up with the perfect little bow. Still I think the book was worth the time and I may check out other books by the author in the future.
April 5, 2017
This was a long ass story
August 29, 2019
It was alright, if a bit long. Like 3/4 of the book has little to nothing to do with the cult at all. As such, it struggled to hold my interest. Still decently written, and without the issues of the middle two books, though not very action orientated.
June 8, 2019
Captain Rafe Carstairs is the fourth of the ex-Guardsmen taking proof of guilt of the Black Cobra’s identity back to England. Rafe and his aide Hassan left before the others heading overland, not by sea. In Eastern Europe they meet up with Esme, Lady Congreve and her niece Loretta. As a disguise they teamed up as guide/guard and a tourist party and had remarkably little trouble, though ever alert to the presence of the Cobra’s minions. They sight see, moving ever closer to the Channel, travelling from city to city by river boat. There are attacks, but they seem to be from local ruffians, not cultists. It’s a curious pattern.
Rafe and Loretta feel a special attraction to one another that they try to ignore. He has his mission; she has resolved to avoid being pushed into marriage and be a writer. As they travel and escape from attacks, they grow closer and succumb to their attraction, and succumb, and succumb, and succumb. They need to be sure their relationship will be enduring. They are passionate and apparently can survive with very little sleep. The passion, which I usually enjoy, became overdone and boring. Fortunately they finally run up against the Cobra’s minions and action ensues.
The earlier attacks are solved Lady Congreve was the target), and the Black Cobra is finally defeated. Everyone finds their HEA. The series is tied up neatly, and we get to visit with our old friends the Cynsters. I enjoyed the series and the individual stories. This one needed to be either 100 pages shorter or add in a couple more adventures, more Cobra subplots, or more complexities to the relationship. Most readers will enjoy the plot twists at the end. The characters are interesting and likeable. Lady Congreve was particularly entertaining. Recommended with reservations. If you have read the others in the series, you have to read the finish, but I was disappointed by the boring bed bouts.
Readalikes:
Julia Quinn – It’s in His Kiss; Celeste Bradley – To Wes a Scandalous Spy; Sabrina Jeffries – A Lady Never Surrenders; Catherine Coulter’s Bride series; Amanda Quick – The Third Circle; Christine Feehan – Lair of the Lion; Gaelen Foley – Lady of Desire and Lord of Ice; Cathy Maxwell – Adventures of a Scottish Heiress; Brenda Joyce – Scandalous Love; Anne Stuart – Never Kiss a Rake; Jillian Stone – A Private Duel with Agent Gunn.
Pace: Moderately paced
Characters: Good within genre stereotypes; strong woman
Story: Character-driven
Writing style: Engaging
Tone: Steamy
Frame: Journey from India to England through Eastern Europe, Hungary, Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands; 1822
Rafe and Loretta feel a special attraction to one another that they try to ignore. He has his mission; she has resolved to avoid being pushed into marriage and be a writer. As they travel and escape from attacks, they grow closer and succumb to their attraction, and succumb, and succumb, and succumb. They need to be sure their relationship will be enduring. They are passionate and apparently can survive with very little sleep. The passion, which I usually enjoy, became overdone and boring. Fortunately they finally run up against the Cobra’s minions and action ensues.
The earlier attacks are solved Lady Congreve was the target), and the Black Cobra is finally defeated. Everyone finds their HEA. The series is tied up neatly, and we get to visit with our old friends the Cynsters. I enjoyed the series and the individual stories. This one needed to be either 100 pages shorter or add in a couple more adventures, more Cobra subplots, or more complexities to the relationship. Most readers will enjoy the plot twists at the end. The characters are interesting and likeable. Lady Congreve was particularly entertaining. Recommended with reservations. If you have read the others in the series, you have to read the finish, but I was disappointed by the boring bed bouts.
Readalikes:
Julia Quinn – It’s in His Kiss; Celeste Bradley – To Wes a Scandalous Spy; Sabrina Jeffries – A Lady Never Surrenders; Catherine Coulter’s Bride series; Amanda Quick – The Third Circle; Christine Feehan – Lair of the Lion; Gaelen Foley – Lady of Desire and Lord of Ice; Cathy Maxwell – Adventures of a Scottish Heiress; Brenda Joyce – Scandalous Love; Anne Stuart – Never Kiss a Rake; Jillian Stone – A Private Duel with Agent Gunn.
Pace: Moderately paced
Characters: Good within genre stereotypes; strong woman
Story: Character-driven
Writing style: Engaging
Tone: Steamy
Frame: Journey from India to England through Eastern Europe, Hungary, Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands; 1822
November 4, 2013
Dear lord in heaven above. I'm a very fast reader, and can usually plow through a romance novel in about two hours. This took me three and a half, with lots of skimming. It was so loquacious in a very bad way. A romance novel should not blabber on and on. I couldn't even finish the epilogue because I was so overcome with this feeling of, "Dear lord, how are there still pages left?" Sometimes I feel incredibly frustrated when I feel like I have hit the end of a book, only to have it continue. I particularly hate the parts where the men just sit around talking. So much of the action and important information was lost in the soliloquizes of the men, filling page after page with unnecessary words that are rather boring. No thanks. I came here for a quick, happy, read to relax me after studying, and can't bear it when characters rehash the book. As if I hadn't just read it or something... And Loretta is just plan annoying. I'm just going to do it with you but be fickle and obstinate and base my decision to marry you or not on how well you do *it* to me, instead of, oh I don't know, feelings? I usually enjoy Laurens' novels, especially since I am a sucker for protective men (especially ones named Rafe) but this is one I practically regret reading. I detest leaving a series unfinished, but I wish this had been a trilogy, as opposed to a quartet. It would have been much faster paced and less repetitive as a series - hers usually flow so well together, but this series felt awkwardly smushed together. I suppose that was part of the point - four different viewpoints that occur in a similar time frame, but it really didn't work for me. Julia Quinn has two books that do this, but they fit very well together. This book simply did not work for me. All in all, I'd read it if you are keen to finish the series, but I suggest skimming most of it. Also apologies for hating on the book for being wordy, then doing the same.
August 15, 2010
I give this book 3.5 stars.
This is the last book in the Black Cobra Quartet. Captain Rafe Carstairs is the last of the four to be traveling back to England and is carrying the original document that contains the damning evidence of the true identity of the Black Cobra. Along the way he runs into Esme and her niece Loretta who are doing a grand tour of spots that Esme and her deceased husband had visited during his diplomatic career. Circumstances force them to travel back to England together as Carstairs and his man, Hassan, post as a courier-guide and body guard for the two women. Carstairs and Loretta quickly find themselves attracted to each other.
I read the first two books in this series and missed the third but of the three I read this was probably the best in the series. I enjoyed Esme's machinations to get her niece, Loretta, and Rafe together. Loretta was a nice balance of independent woman yet willing to allow Rafe to control things when needed. One of my pet peeves in romantic heroines is when they have to be stubbornly independent even when it's obviously detrimental to the situation so Loretta's character was a delight. Same wit Rafe's character, I liked that he could admit when e was outmaneuvered by Esme or Loretta with good grace.
The one thing that did bother me was that with this group of clever and intelligent men and women they dismissed being attacked three times to bad luck once they determined it wasn't the work of the Black Cobra. Come on! If that was just bad luck ten I would seriously be worried about even leaving the bedroom. It seemed so obvious that something else ad to be up. Other than that this was a nice conclusion to the series and be prepared to be surprised in the end. I feel like I have to go back and re-read the previous books to see if I missed any hints to the final outcome.
This is the last book in the Black Cobra Quartet. Captain Rafe Carstairs is the last of the four to be traveling back to England and is carrying the original document that contains the damning evidence of the true identity of the Black Cobra. Along the way he runs into Esme and her niece Loretta who are doing a grand tour of spots that Esme and her deceased husband had visited during his diplomatic career. Circumstances force them to travel back to England together as Carstairs and his man, Hassan, post as a courier-guide and body guard for the two women. Carstairs and Loretta quickly find themselves attracted to each other.
I read the first two books in this series and missed the third but of the three I read this was probably the best in the series. I enjoyed Esme's machinations to get her niece, Loretta, and Rafe together. Loretta was a nice balance of independent woman yet willing to allow Rafe to control things when needed. One of my pet peeves in romantic heroines is when they have to be stubbornly independent even when it's obviously detrimental to the situation so Loretta's character was a delight. Same wit Rafe's character, I liked that he could admit when e was outmaneuvered by Esme or Loretta with good grace.
The one thing that did bother me was that with this group of clever and intelligent men and women they dismissed being attacked three times to bad luck once they determined it wasn't the work of the Black Cobra. Come on! If that was just bad luck ten I would seriously be worried about even leaving the bedroom. It seemed so obvious that something else ad to be up. Other than that this was a nice conclusion to the series and be prepared to be surprised in the end. I feel like I have to go back and re-read the previous books to see if I missed any hints to the final outcome.
November 3, 2010
THE RECKLESS BRIDE by Stephanie Laurens is a historical romance set in 1822 India and England. It is the fourth in The Black Cobra Quartet (Book One, The Untamed Bride,Book Two, The Elusive Bride, Book Three, The Brazen Bride) but can be read as a stand alone. It is well written with details and depths. First, let me say I so enjoy this author's writing. To that, let me say I thought this was a little slow to begin with. It seemed to have more of another plot, than the others and less of the The Black Cobra plot.Saying that it has a successful conclusion to The Black Cobra Quartet Series. It has adventure, romance, sensuality, passion, vengeance, suspense, intrigue, suspense and the ending to the dreaded traitorous fiend The Black Cobra. The fourth of the brave,determined ex-officers of the Crown,Rafe,is trying to get the last piece of the puzzle of who the Black Cobra really is into the right hands and avenge his fallen comrade, James. The other three have landed in England. In the meantime, Rafe, meets the lovely Loretta, who is traveling with her aunt throughout Europe. Together, they battle cultists and someone out to kill her aunt. Loretta, is determined to deny convention and not fall in love or marry but enters Rafe. They will meet their destinies together. If you enjoy mystery, suspense, intrigue and adventure you will enjoy this one. Although, I enjoyed the other three better, this one seemed to engage more in another plot concerning Loretta and her Aunt instead of The Black Cobra affair. I would still recommend this one, but beware, the conclusion to The Black Cobra Quartet is not toward the first of the book. This book was received from Net Galley for review and details can be found at Avon,An imprint of HarperCollins Publishers and My Book Addiction and More.
January 19, 2021
The Reckless Bride is about Captain Rafe Carstairs' journey back to England. He was the last to arrive and he carried the original letter that could end the Black Cobra. He travelled with Hassan but along the way met Esme and her niece, Loretta. For the benefit of both groups, they travelled together taking the river route.
It's quite surprising how little the cultist showed up compared to the last 3 books. Even the attacks that happened actually was aimed for Esme not Carstairs. I love both Esme and Loretta character and quite enjoyed the progress of Loretta and Rafe relationship. Loretta was not overwhelmingly / annoyingly independent - she definitely knew when to back down and let Rafe took care of things.
Out of the 4 books, I enjoyed this the most. The flow of how the relationship bloomed was really pleasant and enjoyable. Although the Black Cobra storyline and how they 'finished' their misson wasn't satisfying at all. Black Cobra and all of their leaders didn't seemed so hard to defeat. I wondered how all of them could plot and established such big/scary/complex organisations throughout India if they couldn't even outsmart Wolverstone at least once. I definitely expected that Alex (the last villain) was at least on Wolverstone level. I mean, she was after all the master mind of such big powerful group. I skipped on some parts at the end (and some sex scene) because they were boring but could definitely turned a blind eye on them.
I think it would be nice to re-read the 4th book someday in the future. But never ever read this series right from one to the other. It is better to be read separately - taking a break in between with other books so you can forget bits of details from the story lines - therefore the whole storyline in this series won't feel too repetitive.
It's quite surprising how little the cultist showed up compared to the last 3 books. Even the attacks that happened actually was aimed for Esme not Carstairs. I love both Esme and Loretta character and quite enjoyed the progress of Loretta and Rafe relationship. Loretta was not overwhelmingly / annoyingly independent - she definitely knew when to back down and let Rafe took care of things.
Out of the 4 books, I enjoyed this the most. The flow of how the relationship bloomed was really pleasant and enjoyable. Although the Black Cobra storyline and how they 'finished' their misson wasn't satisfying at all. Black Cobra and all of their leaders didn't seemed so hard to defeat. I wondered how all of them could plot and established such big/scary/complex organisations throughout India if they couldn't even outsmart Wolverstone at least once. I definitely expected that Alex (the last villain) was at least on Wolverstone level. I mean, she was after all the master mind of such big powerful group. I skipped on some parts at the end (and some sex scene) because they were boring but could definitely turned a blind eye on them.
I think it would be nice to re-read the 4th book someday in the future. But never ever read this series right from one to the other. It is better to be read separately - taking a break in between with other books so you can forget bits of details from the story lines - therefore the whole storyline in this series won't feel too repetitive.
July 25, 2014
Favorite of the Series
THE RECKLESS BRIDE is the fourth and final book in the Black Cobra Quartet. The series tells the story of four men who have discovered the identity of the English leader of a murderous cult in India. The four men are coming back to England with proof of the leaders identity. This book is about the fourth man, Rafe Carstairs, aka "Reckless" who has the original letter. While on his way back to England, Rafe ends up meeting Loretta Michelmarsh who is traveling with her great-aunt. Of course, the two end up working together to defeat the Black Cobra.
This was my favorite book in the series. I liked the action better. The book flowed more cohesively between the travels and the English action. In addition, the numerous characters that appeared from the Cynster and Bastion Club series were better used here and did not feel as disruptive to the story. I also loved the characters of Rafe and Loretta. Reckless Rage must learn in this book to be careful and protective and Loretta must shed her proper facade in order to take control of her strong, independent and powerful side.
I sped through this book because the story was tight and engaging. There was some good suspense action and while I figured out the twist before the reveal, I was satisfied with the resolution of the ongoing story.
Rafe was adorable and I truly felt that the characters built a serious relationship. At times, Laurens substitutes sex for relationship building. Here, Rafe and Loretta had a relationship outside of sex.
I think that readers could skip the other three boss in the series and not miss much. This is the gem.
Rating 4.5.
THE RECKLESS BRIDE is the fourth and final book in the Black Cobra Quartet. The series tells the story of four men who have discovered the identity of the English leader of a murderous cult in India. The four men are coming back to England with proof of the leaders identity. This book is about the fourth man, Rafe Carstairs, aka "Reckless" who has the original letter. While on his way back to England, Rafe ends up meeting Loretta Michelmarsh who is traveling with her great-aunt. Of course, the two end up working together to defeat the Black Cobra.
This was my favorite book in the series. I liked the action better. The book flowed more cohesively between the travels and the English action. In addition, the numerous characters that appeared from the Cynster and Bastion Club series were better used here and did not feel as disruptive to the story. I also loved the characters of Rafe and Loretta. Reckless Rage must learn in this book to be careful and protective and Loretta must shed her proper facade in order to take control of her strong, independent and powerful side.
I sped through this book because the story was tight and engaging. There was some good suspense action and while I figured out the twist before the reveal, I was satisfied with the resolution of the ongoing story.
Rafe was adorable and I truly felt that the characters built a serious relationship. At times, Laurens substitutes sex for relationship building. Here, Rafe and Loretta had a relationship outside of sex.
I think that readers could skip the other three boss in the series and not miss much. This is the gem.
Rating 4.5.
August 29, 2010
In a lot of ways, I’m really pleased with this book; it reminds me of why I started reading SL. After the past couple of novels, I was a bit apprehensive when I started this one, but… it started with maps! I love maps in books! Then, the prologue includes a helpful recap of Rafe’s mission and an introduction to Loretta and her well-meaning family before she’s swept away on a Grand Tour by her fabulous aunt Esme. The initial meeting of Rafe and Loretta was cute and made me smile. Their interactions were fun to watch, as they tried to figure out how they felt about each other while simultaneously trying to hold their cards to their chests.
The bad: I really dislike the whole Black Cobra Cult storyline. Largely because I think the plotting for it has been pretty awful throughout the series, but also because it’s totally unnecessary, especially in this story – the romance between Loretta and Rafe would still work without the desperate-race-against-time-to-stop-the-evil-whoevers aspect. It didn’t help that SL added yet another villain to the mix. When you’ve already got an overly complicated story, you need to edit stuff out, not add to the chaos.
The good: The focus is mostly on Loretta and Rafe until the end, the distracting sidelines don’t actually take up that much space and the BCC stuff is done better than in any of the other books in this series. All in all, I enjoyed this much more than I expected to and am once again looking forward to the next SL novel.
This review is based on an electronic ARC I received through NetGalley.
The bad: I really dislike the whole Black Cobra Cult storyline. Largely because I think the plotting for it has been pretty awful throughout the series, but also because it’s totally unnecessary, especially in this story – the romance between Loretta and Rafe would still work without the desperate-race-against-time-to-stop-the-evil-whoevers aspect. It didn’t help that SL added yet another villain to the mix. When you’ve already got an overly complicated story, you need to edit stuff out, not add to the chaos.
The good: The focus is mostly on Loretta and Rafe until the end, the distracting sidelines don’t actually take up that much space and the BCC stuff is done better than in any of the other books in this series. All in all, I enjoyed this much more than I expected to and am once again looking forward to the next SL novel.
This review is based on an electronic ARC I received through NetGalley.
January 20, 2015
To be fair, this is book four of a series and I haven't read the other three, although I don't think it would change my opinion. Although very well read, the story was weak. Loretta Mitchellmarsh has been avoiding love for as long as possible. Captain Rafe Carstairs has a sacred mission to complete. The is no place for love. But sometimes love comes along when you least expect it. The sexual tension was good. We got to know Loretta as a woman made of stern stuff, who doesn't faint at the sight of guns or knives and who can handle herself in a fight. I liked her. But once the sexual tension moved to sex, the book became exceedingly lifeless. It isn't that the sex wasn't well written, it's just that there was no reason for so much of it. It was endlessly repetitive. It didn't advance the plot and it took the plot forever to get moving. This was 15 hours and should have been about 9. So much could have cut without any loss of plot. At least the narration was top notch.
October 1, 2021
A good end to the series. Good enough that I'm going back to read the first three. I already have "reviewed" them to remind myself of the whys and wherefores.
2018--Definitely the best of the series.
2019--Maybe not really 4 stars, 3...something. But definitely the best of the series. Introduction of the secondary "mystery," (not that the Black Cobra cult is a mystery...certainly not at this point) is a good thing.
2018--Definitely the best of the series.
2019--Maybe not really 4 stars, 3...something. But definitely the best of the series. Introduction of the secondary "mystery," (not that the Black Cobra cult is a mystery...certainly not at this point) is a good thing.
March 12, 2020
3 Stars
June 2, 2019
A strong finish to the Black Cobra Quartet. This is a series that MUST be read in order. The stories and journeys happen contemporaneously and there are discoveries about the Black Cobra that happen throughout and would be spoilers, if read out of order.
Rafe is the last of the four former officers and he is the courier with the original letter that serves as evidence and for which James (set up in book 1) lost his life. Rafe is moving overland, which serves to provide a wide range of settings along the rivers of Europe. Rafe is the one that in the other three books, the other couriers express the most concern for. He has the original document, he is younger, and he is known by his nickname, Reckless. He and his assistant, Hassan, join forces with Lady Esme and her niece, Loretta, when Lady Esme hires them to act as guard and guide. It is not a role Rafe wants, but (theme throughout the series) he fears the cultists have seen him and Hassan with the ladies, leaving the ladies in danger and he with no choice but to protect them. It's a stretch in this one initially, though later on it is undeniably a factor. Loretta is on this journey with her aunt to discover herself, can she be the woman she truly is or will she continue to hide behind the demure facade she shows her brother and the ton? Because of the slow pace of the river journey, Rafe and Loretta have a great deal of time to get to know each other and fall in love. Along the way to England, the 6 (including two maids) experience several attacks, most of which are not what they seem to be. Eventually Esme and her maid stay hidden, and the other four continue the journey. Until there were two, when traveling as a group becomes more conspicuous and difficult. Rafe and Loretta are forced to hide and the search is on by both the Wolverstone crew and the Black Cobra assassins. The whole host of characters are there are at the end, from the Cynsters, the Bastion Club, the first three of the Black Cobra Quarter and of course, all of the women. Throughout there is often more subterfuge at play than outright battle scenes, but no less suspense. While I still believe the third book was the best, this is a quality conclusion to the series, and to the interconnected stories of the world that Laurens created through so many books.
Rafe is the last of the four former officers and he is the courier with the original letter that serves as evidence and for which James (set up in book 1) lost his life. Rafe is moving overland, which serves to provide a wide range of settings along the rivers of Europe. Rafe is the one that in the other three books, the other couriers express the most concern for. He has the original document, he is younger, and he is known by his nickname, Reckless. He and his assistant, Hassan, join forces with Lady Esme and her niece, Loretta, when Lady Esme hires them to act as guard and guide. It is not a role Rafe wants, but (theme throughout the series) he fears the cultists have seen him and Hassan with the ladies, leaving the ladies in danger and he with no choice but to protect them. It's a stretch in this one initially, though later on it is undeniably a factor. Loretta is on this journey with her aunt to discover herself, can she be the woman she truly is or will she continue to hide behind the demure facade she shows her brother and the ton? Because of the slow pace of the river journey, Rafe and Loretta have a great deal of time to get to know each other and fall in love. Along the way to England, the 6 (including two maids) experience several attacks, most of which are not what they seem to be. Eventually Esme and her maid stay hidden, and the other four continue the journey. Until there were two, when traveling as a group becomes more conspicuous and difficult. Rafe and Loretta are forced to hide and the search is on by both the Wolverstone crew and the Black Cobra assassins. The whole host of characters are there are at the end, from the Cynsters, the Bastion Club, the first three of the Black Cobra Quarter and of course, all of the women. Throughout there is often more subterfuge at play than outright battle scenes, but no less suspense. While I still believe the third book was the best, this is a quality conclusion to the series, and to the interconnected stories of the world that Laurens created through so many books.
July 18, 2022
Esperaba algo espectacular. Y aunq ha sido una historia bastante buena, no ha sido todo lo espectacular q yo esperaba. De todas formas mantengo la calificación xq en general ha cumplido.
Rafe es el último de los oficiales en misión de entregar la prueba q condenará a la Cobra Negra. En su camino tropieza con Loretta, la q será la dama su corazón. Hay mucho de las historias anteriores q se repiten en esta trama, x ejemplo los analísis introspectivos de Loretta y muchos detalles sobre la ruta q se estaba siguiendo - como lo q tuvimos con Emily&Gareth - pero a diferencia de estos, con Rafe&Loretta no hubo esa permanente sensación de peligro, xq los seguidores fue obvio q no supieron por donde fue Rafe en buena parte del camino. Eso podría haber quitado mucho suspense a la trama y hacerla un tanto aburrida, pero hubo suficiente con esa vuelta de tuerca q se le ocurrió a la autora y tengo q felicitarla x su ingenio para armar tramas secundarias q no desvían la atención sino q la enfocan para luego terminar en algo completamente inesperado.
El romance sí estuvo presente, aunq al principio fue muy frío. Ambos personajes no parecían muy dispuestos a dejarse llevar por la atracción y x momentos eso ralentizó bastante el ritmo de la historia, pero una vez q ambos cayeron en cuenta de lo inevitable ya se dejaron llevar y la trama fluyó normalmente.
Mención especial merece el desenlace, el pequeño detalle q se me escapó completamente sobre la identidad de la Cobra Negra. No lo esperé en absoluto, xq supongo q el atavismo todavía tira demasiado y siempre estamos acostumbradas a esperar q el villano sea el viejo misógino, patriarcal sexo fuerte. Puedo decir q la verdad siempre estuvo ahí, pero solo te das cuenta de los detalles significativos cuando miras hacia atrás. Solo x eso podría haberle dado las 5 estrellas. Por qué no lo hice? Xq con semejante giro de acontecimientos, siento q el final de la Cobra Negra merecía más q nunca un final mucho más despampanante y digno de su maldad; pero no. El final fue caballeroso y honrado. Aburrido, pero digno del honor inglés.
Rafe es el último de los oficiales en misión de entregar la prueba q condenará a la Cobra Negra. En su camino tropieza con Loretta, la q será la dama su corazón. Hay mucho de las historias anteriores q se repiten en esta trama, x ejemplo los analísis introspectivos de Loretta y muchos detalles sobre la ruta q se estaba siguiendo - como lo q tuvimos con Emily&Gareth - pero a diferencia de estos, con Rafe&Loretta no hubo esa permanente sensación de peligro, xq los seguidores fue obvio q no supieron por donde fue Rafe en buena parte del camino. Eso podría haber quitado mucho suspense a la trama y hacerla un tanto aburrida, pero hubo suficiente con esa vuelta de tuerca q se le ocurrió a la autora y tengo q felicitarla x su ingenio para armar tramas secundarias q no desvían la atención sino q la enfocan para luego terminar en algo completamente inesperado.
El romance sí estuvo presente, aunq al principio fue muy frío. Ambos personajes no parecían muy dispuestos a dejarse llevar por la atracción y x momentos eso ralentizó bastante el ritmo de la historia, pero una vez q ambos cayeron en cuenta de lo inevitable ya se dejaron llevar y la trama fluyó normalmente.
Mención especial merece el desenlace, el pequeño detalle q se me escapó completamente sobre la identidad de la Cobra Negra. No lo esperé en absoluto, xq supongo q el atavismo todavía tira demasiado y siempre estamos acostumbradas a esperar q el villano sea el viejo misógino, patriarcal sexo fuerte. Puedo decir q la verdad siempre estuvo ahí, pero solo te das cuenta de los detalles significativos cuando miras hacia atrás. Solo x eso podría haberle dado las 5 estrellas. Por qué no lo hice? Xq con semejante giro de acontecimientos, siento q el final de la Cobra Negra merecía más q nunca un final mucho más despampanante y digno de su maldad; pero no. El final fue caballeroso y honrado. Aburrido, pero digno del honor inglés.
June 3, 2019
Not the Big Bang ending we thought this was going to be. To be fair though the ending was still good. So far up to this point, everyone has come together for the ending of each book. Not so they the were completely solo, but it was not as much a group effort as what Mom and I expected, especially from this author who likes to throw in a thousand cameo from her other books. ( We all finished the Blades of Roses Series, and we liked how everyone came together for the ending of the four book series.) The ending though was still good, it felt the climax was good, and for the characters in this book well deserved.
Mom and I all together liked the book. We did have a good laugh though that this book had minimal sex compared to the previous one. It almost seemed to come full circle to us in how the last one seemed the most similar to the first one. Not that the 2nd and 3rd book in the series were bad, in fact they were rather fun, but aside from the fact the Black Cobra and some character cameo’s it feels like they have very little in common, to the poit it feels the author was more try out new styles of writing rather than trying to make a completely succinct series. (We would like to remind everyone these are our thoughts and feelings.) Over all this book has some awesome adventure and fun. A good end to a waiving series.
Mom and I all together liked the book. We did have a good laugh though that this book had minimal sex compared to the previous one. It almost seemed to come full circle to us in how the last one seemed the most similar to the first one. Not that the 2nd and 3rd book in the series were bad, in fact they were rather fun, but aside from the fact the Black Cobra and some character cameo’s it feels like they have very little in common, to the poit it feels the author was more try out new styles of writing rather than trying to make a completely succinct series. (We would like to remind everyone these are our thoughts and feelings.) Over all this book has some awesome adventure and fun. A good end to a waiving series.
October 5, 2021
This story is the final installment of the Black Cobra series. Captain Rafe Carstairs is the last of the four special military group traveling back to England with a document that names the true identity of the Black Cobra. He is traveling with Hassan to get the evidence back safely.
On the way, they run into Esme, a grand lady from England, and her nice, Loretta, who are concluding a grand tour of Europe. Loretta has turned down many proposals of marriage and Esme has taken her on the tour to get her out from under her family who want her to marry. Due to circumstances, Esme, Loretta and their two maids end up being escorted back to England by Rafe and Hassan.
Of course, Rafe and Loretta end up being attracted to each other. They also work together to help defeat Black Cobra. There are many pitfalls on their journey home to England, as their relationship grows.
This was an interesting reveal of the Black Cobra head. And a great resolution to the four military men and the women each has come to love. Liked it a lot!
On the way, they run into Esme, a grand lady from England, and her nice, Loretta, who are concluding a grand tour of Europe. Loretta has turned down many proposals of marriage and Esme has taken her on the tour to get her out from under her family who want her to marry. Due to circumstances, Esme, Loretta and their two maids end up being escorted back to England by Rafe and Hassan.
Of course, Rafe and Loretta end up being attracted to each other. They also work together to help defeat Black Cobra. There are many pitfalls on their journey home to England, as their relationship grows.
This was an interesting reveal of the Black Cobra head. And a great resolution to the four military men and the women each has come to love. Liked it a lot!
June 28, 2018
L'identité du Cobra Noir est une (bonne) surprise. Et j'ai aimé les personnages. Mais il y a pas mal de similitudes avec les tomes précédents. Surtout l'évolution du couple et les questions qu'ils se posent sur leur relation et leur avenir. L'auteur a du mal à se renouveler, c'est le même schéma dans les 4 livres.
Quant à l'histoire globale, une chose m'a un peu gênée : dans chaque tome, les partisans repèrent assez facilement les héros. Ils cherchent pourtant 4 hommes voyageant seuls. Or les héros font des rencontres en chemin et voyagent donc accompagnés.
Vu les faibles moyens de communication de l'époque (et les partisans n'ayant pas de photos/portraits des héros), voyager incognito aurait dû être beaucoup plus facile pour ceux-ci... C'est partisans sont aussi particulièrement à l'aise en Europe alors qu'ils viennent du bout du monde.
Mais bon, si on passe sur les petites incohérences, cette série est agréable à lire.
Quant à l'histoire globale, une chose m'a un peu gênée : dans chaque tome, les partisans repèrent assez facilement les héros. Ils cherchent pourtant 4 hommes voyageant seuls. Or les héros font des rencontres en chemin et voyagent donc accompagnés.
Vu les faibles moyens de communication de l'époque (et les partisans n'ayant pas de photos/portraits des héros), voyager incognito aurait dû être beaucoup plus facile pour ceux-ci... C'est partisans sont aussi particulièrement à l'aise en Europe alors qu'ils viennent du bout du monde.
Mais bon, si on passe sur les petites incohérences, cette série est agréable à lire.
February 23, 2019
I don’t know what to make of this book at all. I give credit to the author for creating a villain that wasn’t at all what I was expecting. However, she also created a heroine I really didn’t like in the least. I’ve said it before: I don’t like manipulative heroines. And Loretta is one of the most despicable of the type I’ve had the misfortune to read. Rafe is everything noble, honorable, and protective I could ask for or expect from a Laurens’ hero. But I was completely over their relationship when Loretta decides, after being told by multiple people – including the hero himself, that taking the next steps she wants to could put his life in danger, and she does it anyway. Probably one of my least favorite book moments. I really liked the tiny bit of the book that dealt with the Black Cobra ‘stuff’. I mostly liked Rafe. I didn’t like Loretta, so I could have done without the relationship-y parts of the book.
March 5, 2025
Drinking game time. Every time you read 'cultist' drink. What? You're wasted now? Try doing the same thing for 'Black Cobra' and you're not going to be able to stand for a week. Crazy. The main character in this book is possibly the worst spy in the history of spy's. He immediately tells everyone he meets about his super important secret mission. Hi, what's your name? Cool. Sit down and let me tell you about my secret mission. You over there, come and here this as well. Got a friend? Bring them as well. Meanwhile, main character girl is an author? But, why? Doesn't figure into the plot at all and is forgotten half way through the book anyway. Anyway, these two crazy kids manage to survive the Black Cobra (drink) and realize they have fallen in love in the process. Toast to them!
March 19, 2024
Black Cobra Revealed
What starts as a mission to provide Wolverston with a letter identifying the Black Cobra evolves into a travelogue as Rafe Carstairs and Hassan travel along with Lady Congreve and Loretta Michelmarsh plus their maids via carriages and boats to Felixstowe. There are detailed descriptions of many landmarks that they see on their journey back to England coupled with the menacing cultists and mercenaries bent on either kidnapping or killing the main characters. The novel could be read as a very well-written adventure story or as a very detailed-oriented seduction novel.
What starts as a mission to provide Wolverston with a letter identifying the Black Cobra evolves into a travelogue as Rafe Carstairs and Hassan travel along with Lady Congreve and Loretta Michelmarsh plus their maids via carriages and boats to Felixstowe. There are detailed descriptions of many landmarks that they see on their journey back to England coupled with the menacing cultists and mercenaries bent on either kidnapping or killing the main characters. The novel could be read as a very well-written adventure story or as a very detailed-oriented seduction novel.
Read
July 14, 2019Apparently this was the first Stephanie Laurens book I've read and I think it's going to be the last. About 20% in (I was reading on paper but I seem to have adopted the kindle mindset) I decided to quit because I wasn't enjoying it, but then it was still there beside my bed and I just kept picking it up until I figured I might as well finish it, despite the often wooden dialog and overblown sex scenes. It had the elements of a good book but the execution didn't quite come together for me, nor did the characters, really.
Oh well.
Oh well.
August 4, 2020
I really enjoyed parts of this story. I found the characters incredibly intriguing, and really enjoyed their journey as a whole.
What I didn't enjoy in this one was the incredibly murky consent. Considering when this book was published, consent should have been much clearer. Instead, the unclear consent was also caught up in a moment when a character was dealing with their PTSD related to a war in which they lost a commerade.
I was so sad, because I really liked the idea of this novel.
What I didn't enjoy in this one was the incredibly murky consent. Considering when this book was published, consent should have been much clearer. Instead, the unclear consent was also caught up in a moment when a character was dealing with their PTSD related to a war in which they lost a commerade.
I was so sad, because I really liked the idea of this novel.
May 6, 2021
The culmination of the Black Cobra Quartet was UNREAL!!
I had no idea ALEX was FEMALE!! That was quite a shock.
Rafe's and Loretta's romance was so intense -- here is a reckless guy being extremely cautious and an extremely cautious woman learning how to be more impulsive and real!
The final battle of between Rafe, Loretta, and the Black Cobra leader was unbelievably intense. I especially LOVED Royce's response to Alex's demand to end her life and how he would not use the hands that he lovingly touched his beloved wife and children with.
It was great to hear how all the relationships started in Book 1 were finalized in Book 4 and how each wedding took place.
I had no idea ALEX was FEMALE!! That was quite a shock.
Rafe's and Loretta's romance was so intense -- here is a reckless guy being extremely cautious and an extremely cautious woman learning how to be more impulsive and real!
The final battle of between Rafe, Loretta, and the Black Cobra leader was unbelievably intense. I especially LOVED Royce's response to Alex's demand to end her life and how he would not use the hands that he lovingly touched his beloved wife and children with.
It was great to hear how all the relationships started in Book 1 were finalized in Book 4 and how each wedding took place.
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