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The Blades of the Rose #2
Scoundrel
“[A] delightful tale of an intelligent, competent woman sharing adventure and romance with a formidable partner” (Publishers Weekly, starred review).
The Blades of the Rose are sworn to protect the sources of magic in the world. But the work is dangerous--and they can't always protect their own. . .Ready For Action London Harcourt's father is bent on subjugating the world's magic to British rule. But since London is a mere female, he hasn't bothered to tell her so. He's said only that he's leading a voyage to the Greek isles. No matter, after a smothering marriage and three years of straitlaced widowhood, London jumps at the opportunity--unfortunately, right into the arms of Bennett Day.Risking It All Bennett is a ladies' man, when he's not dodging lethal attacks to protect the powers of the ancients from men like London's father. Sometimes, he's a ladies' man even when he is dodging them. But the minute he sees London he knows she will require his full attention. The woman is lovely, brilliant, and the only known speaker of a dialect of ancient Greek that holds the key to calling down the wrath of the gods. Bennett will be risking his life again--but around London, what really worries him is the danger to his heart. . .Praise for The Blades of the Rose "Crackles with adventure, a rich sense of place, and terrific characterization." --Mary Jo Putney "Weaves a delightful spell…cleverly blending history and magic."--Elizabeth Vaughan, USA Today bestselling author "An innovative and exciting romantic adventure with just the right touch of the paranormal." --Jennifer Ashley, USA Today bestselling author
The Blades of the Rose are sworn to protect the sources of magic in the world. But the work is dangerous--and they can't always protect their own. . .Ready For Action London Harcourt's father is bent on subjugating the world's magic to British rule. But since London is a mere female, he hasn't bothered to tell her so. He's said only that he's leading a voyage to the Greek isles. No matter, after a smothering marriage and three years of straitlaced widowhood, London jumps at the opportunity--unfortunately, right into the arms of Bennett Day.Risking It All Bennett is a ladies' man, when he's not dodging lethal attacks to protect the powers of the ancients from men like London's father. Sometimes, he's a ladies' man even when he is dodging them. But the minute he sees London he knows she will require his full attention. The woman is lovely, brilliant, and the only known speaker of a dialect of ancient Greek that holds the key to calling down the wrath of the gods. Bennett will be risking his life again--but around London, what really worries him is the danger to his heart. . .Praise for The Blades of the Rose "Crackles with adventure, a rich sense of place, and terrific characterization." --Mary Jo Putney "Weaves a delightful spell…cleverly blending history and magic."--Elizabeth Vaughan, USA Today bestselling author "An innovative and exciting romantic adventure with just the right touch of the paranormal." --Jennifer Ashley, USA Today bestselling author
433 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
38 people are currently reading
1309 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Archer
22 books651 followersZoë Archer is a RITA award-nominated romance author whose stories are about smart, capable heroines and the heroes who love them. She is the author of the acclaimed Blades of the Rose series, as well as the Hellraiser, and Nemesis Unlimited series, among others. She also writes Regency-set romances as Eva Leigh. Visit her on the Web at http://www.zoearcherbooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
October 5, 2010
5+ stars – Paranormal Romance
This is another kick-ass read in the awesome, wildly entertaining The Blades of the Rose series that’s an intriguing, unique blend of Victorian-era historical and paranormal. Scoundrel is an exciting combination of action, adventure, magic, mystery, treasure hunting, seafaring, dangerous intrigue, humor, and steamy romance with an exotic Greek setting and fabulous characters.
It reads like a thrilling action-adventure movie that grabbed my attention from the very first page and never let go. I loved it! I didn’t think the series could get any better than Warrior, but I enjoyed this just as much. And that’s largely because of sexy, shameless Scoundrel hero, Bennett Day, who’s just to die for yummy.
Bennett Day loves the ladies. As an agent for The Blades of the Rose, a secret society dedicated to protecting the world’s magic sources from the evil Heirs who seek to obtain and abuse them for their own gain and power, his primary duty is always to the mission. But if all in a days work, the success of an operation should happen to involve getting under a woman’s skirt and petticoats or seducing a married woman to obtain vital information? Well, then that’s just gravy. The notorious ladies’ man has always been able to keep things carefree, easy, and aloof when it comes to women he’s attracted, seduced, and/or bedded, but then again, Bennett’s never encountered a woman like London Harcourt before.
The womanizing adventurer finally meets his match in intelligent, spirited widow London and finds himself strangely and completely captivated by her. It’s too bad that she’s the daughter of a top member of the Blades sworn enemy, the Heirs. Now it’s up to Bennett and some of his Blade allies to convince expert linguist London to help them translate an ancient dialect in order to find a magical source that’s hidden somewhere in the Greek isles before the Heirs find and use it for their evil aims.
Bennett is a flirtatious, affable, and charming adventure seeker who plays the part of devil-may-care scoundrel, rake, rogue, wastrel, and libertine proudly and with debonair ease. He and London share an explosive attraction and magnetic chemistry that turns into a wildly passionate affair in the midst of exploration and danger. He’s certain that he’ll eventually be able to move on easily when things cool down, like he always does. But when Bennett and London traverse the perilous waters of emotion, will he still be able to play the unaffected scoundrel? Whew...the scenes between these two are intense, fun, and smokin’ HOT!
And Bennett? He had me melting and swooning as if I’d been baking out under the blazing Greek sun all day. And I really liked that much of the story is told from Bennett’s POV because his internal thoughts flat-out cracked me up. He’s sexy, fun, infectiously cheerful, witty, wickedly charming, protective, strong, honest, and courageous, and when he realizes and declares his feelings...it’s utterly romantic, sweet, and sigh-worthy.
There’s also a great side romance between quirky secondary characters, witch Athena and sea captain Kallas, whose constant bickering masks an underlying attraction and simmering sexual tension that they fight like hell to ignore but eventually comes to a boil.
If you like romance with lots of action and adventure, humor, steamy love scenes, a smart, plucky heroine, and a to die for, scoundrel hero with a heart of gold, then don’t miss this highly enjoyable read! Big 5 stars!
Here’s my casting for “Scoundrel” Bennett Day:
This is another kick-ass read in the awesome, wildly entertaining The Blades of the Rose series that’s an intriguing, unique blend of Victorian-era historical and paranormal. Scoundrel is an exciting combination of action, adventure, magic, mystery, treasure hunting, seafaring, dangerous intrigue, humor, and steamy romance with an exotic Greek setting and fabulous characters.
It reads like a thrilling action-adventure movie that grabbed my attention from the very first page and never let go. I loved it! I didn’t think the series could get any better than Warrior, but I enjoyed this just as much. And that’s largely because of sexy, shameless Scoundrel hero, Bennett Day, who’s just to die for yummy.
Bennett Day loves the ladies. As an agent for The Blades of the Rose, a secret society dedicated to protecting the world’s magic sources from the evil Heirs who seek to obtain and abuse them for their own gain and power, his primary duty is always to the mission. But if all in a days work, the success of an operation should happen to involve getting under a woman’s skirt and petticoats or seducing a married woman to obtain vital information? Well, then that’s just gravy. The notorious ladies’ man has always been able to keep things carefree, easy, and aloof when it comes to women he’s attracted, seduced, and/or bedded, but then again, Bennett’s never encountered a woman like London Harcourt before.
The womanizing adventurer finally meets his match in intelligent, spirited widow London and finds himself strangely and completely captivated by her. It’s too bad that she’s the daughter of a top member of the Blades sworn enemy, the Heirs. Now it’s up to Bennett and some of his Blade allies to convince expert linguist London to help them translate an ancient dialect in order to find a magical source that’s hidden somewhere in the Greek isles before the Heirs find and use it for their evil aims.
Bennett is a flirtatious, affable, and charming adventure seeker who plays the part of devil-may-care scoundrel, rake, rogue, wastrel, and libertine proudly and with debonair ease. He and London share an explosive attraction and magnetic chemistry that turns into a wildly passionate affair in the midst of exploration and danger. He’s certain that he’ll eventually be able to move on easily when things cool down, like he always does. But when Bennett and London traverse the perilous waters of emotion, will he still be able to play the unaffected scoundrel? Whew...the scenes between these two are intense, fun, and smokin’ HOT!
And Bennett? He had me melting and swooning as if I’d been baking out under the blazing Greek sun all day. And I really liked that much of the story is told from Bennett’s POV because his internal thoughts flat-out cracked me up. He’s sexy, fun, infectiously cheerful, witty, wickedly charming, protective, strong, honest, and courageous, and when he realizes and declares his feelings...it’s utterly romantic, sweet, and sigh-worthy.
There’s also a great side romance between quirky secondary characters, witch Athena and sea captain Kallas, whose constant bickering masks an underlying attraction and simmering sexual tension that they fight like hell to ignore but eventually comes to a boil.
If you like romance with lots of action and adventure, humor, steamy love scenes, a smart, plucky heroine, and a to die for, scoundrel hero with a heart of gold, then don’t miss this highly enjoyable read! Big 5 stars!
Here’s my casting for “Scoundrel” Bennett Day:
October 18, 2010
4.5 Stars
This was an excellent follow up to the fabulous first book, Warrior. I was pretty stoked about that, because it gives me confidence about how the rest of the series will turn out! Sometimes an author just cannot live up to how excellent the first book in a series is, and it is such a disappointment to the reader. That's not the case here!
I think the author made an exceedingly smart choice by moving the location of this book. We aren't in Mongolia with this one, we're in Greece and the islands nearby. I loved the Mongolian scenery, but by having this one in Greece I didn't even have the slightest urge to stop and compare it to the first book.
We didn't get quite the same sense of culture and information about Greece that we did about Mongolia in the first book, but that's understandable. The characters were on a ship for most of the book and weren't visiting the islands enough to give a well developed sense of the people there. We did get a glimpse of them now and then, but they did feel more like scenery than full robust characters.
I really liked getting to watch the romance between the secondary characters on the ship. We didn't actually dwell on their relationship from their pov, we just got to watch it from Bennett and London's pov. I liked that because I never felt that it took away time from London and Bennett's relationship (as I sometimes do with secondary romances that have half of the book devoted to them) but I did look forward to a glimpse of their relationship progress now and then. I loved that they felt necessary to the book even if it wasn't their story. I especially enjoyed watching Athena come into her own with her powers. It was really nice getting a glimpse of someone who has gifts that they were born with. Although I do still wonder about Bennett's affinity with shadows...
I really enjoyed watching London move past her initial restrictions. Not only was she the daughter of the enemy trying to fit in with a group who hates her family, she was raised as the traditional delicate English rose. She didn't have adventures and she didn't know how to take care of herself in a fight. It was nice that she wasn't magically a Xena-like character right out of the gate. I enjoyed watching her become someone stronger and more confident in herself. I also liked watching the joy and verve she had for every new experience she came across. Here was a girl who had longed for life and finally she got a taste of it.
I really enjoyed the initial struggle and anger London had over the reveal of Bennett's past with her. It added some much appreciated tension. I also enjoyed watching Bennett circle around her trying to find a way to insert himself into her regard. He wanted her to look at him and see someone she wanted to spend time with. I also really liked that London did not cast aside the life that she had known at the drop of a hat. I found her behavior much more realistic and interesting than if she had known Bennett for five minutes and believe him right away. Then I would have just thought she was an idiot!
Bennett was such a fun character! I really enjoyed being in his head. Just like with the first book, his internal dialogue kept me giggling. I really enjoyed his life outlook. He was such an in the moment guy. I don't mean that he didn't have the ability to think long term, I mean that he could take pleasure from the little things that he encountered daily. He didn't need much to stay happy.
I really felt for both of the characters when they had that discussion about what love meant to them. I liked that London wasn't willing to settle for less in the long term, but didn't dismiss his view as foolish. She never dismissed his belief, she just made it clear that it didn't mean the same thing to her. My heart broke for them later when he kept saying something and she kept ignoring it. (vague on purpose to avoid spoilers!) Then when they talked about the "monkey hats..." I couldn't help but sigh. :)
The only reason I gave this .5 stars less than the first one was because I wanted a bit more struggle on Bennett's part winning London. Where I loved the first one for its lack of drama, I really would have appreciated a bit more here. I just felt that everything came easily to Bennett and I would have enjoyed watching him work for it more. Like he did when she was ticked at him on the ship originally. He kept sticking a hand out hoping for her to give him an opening and she just kept slapping it away.
Other than that tiny little niggle I enjoyed the book immensely! I can't wait to get my hands on Rebel!
This was an excellent follow up to the fabulous first book, Warrior. I was pretty stoked about that, because it gives me confidence about how the rest of the series will turn out! Sometimes an author just cannot live up to how excellent the first book in a series is, and it is such a disappointment to the reader. That's not the case here!
I think the author made an exceedingly smart choice by moving the location of this book. We aren't in Mongolia with this one, we're in Greece and the islands nearby. I loved the Mongolian scenery, but by having this one in Greece I didn't even have the slightest urge to stop and compare it to the first book.
We didn't get quite the same sense of culture and information about Greece that we did about Mongolia in the first book, but that's understandable. The characters were on a ship for most of the book and weren't visiting the islands enough to give a well developed sense of the people there. We did get a glimpse of them now and then, but they did feel more like scenery than full robust characters.
I really liked getting to watch the romance between the secondary characters on the ship. We didn't actually dwell on their relationship from their pov, we just got to watch it from Bennett and London's pov. I liked that because I never felt that it took away time from London and Bennett's relationship (as I sometimes do with secondary romances that have half of the book devoted to them) but I did look forward to a glimpse of their relationship progress now and then. I loved that they felt necessary to the book even if it wasn't their story. I especially enjoyed watching Athena come into her own with her powers. It was really nice getting a glimpse of someone who has gifts that they were born with. Although I do still wonder about Bennett's affinity with shadows...
I really enjoyed watching London move past her initial restrictions. Not only was she the daughter of the enemy trying to fit in with a group who hates her family, she was raised as the traditional delicate English rose. She didn't have adventures and she didn't know how to take care of herself in a fight. It was nice that she wasn't magically a Xena-like character right out of the gate. I enjoyed watching her become someone stronger and more confident in herself. I also liked watching the joy and verve she had for every new experience she came across. Here was a girl who had longed for life and finally she got a taste of it.
I really enjoyed the initial struggle and anger London had over the reveal of Bennett's past with her. It added some much appreciated tension. I also enjoyed watching Bennett circle around her trying to find a way to insert himself into her regard. He wanted her to look at him and see someone she wanted to spend time with. I also really liked that London did not cast aside the life that she had known at the drop of a hat. I found her behavior much more realistic and interesting than if she had known Bennett for five minutes and believe him right away. Then I would have just thought she was an idiot!
Bennett was such a fun character! I really enjoyed being in his head. Just like with the first book, his internal dialogue kept me giggling. I really enjoyed his life outlook. He was such an in the moment guy. I don't mean that he didn't have the ability to think long term, I mean that he could take pleasure from the little things that he encountered daily. He didn't need much to stay happy.
I really felt for both of the characters when they had that discussion about what love meant to them. I liked that London wasn't willing to settle for less in the long term, but didn't dismiss his view as foolish. She never dismissed his belief, she just made it clear that it didn't mean the same thing to her. My heart broke for them later when he kept saying something and she kept ignoring it. (vague on purpose to avoid spoilers!) Then when they talked about the "monkey hats..." I couldn't help but sigh. :)
The only reason I gave this .5 stars less than the first one was because I wanted a bit more struggle on Bennett's part winning London. Where I loved the first one for its lack of drama, I really would have appreciated a bit more here. I just felt that everything came easily to Bennett and I would have enjoyed watching him work for it more. Like he did when she was ticked at him on the ship originally. He kept sticking a hand out hoping for her to give him an opening and she just kept slapping it away.
Other than that tiny little niggle I enjoyed the book immensely! I can't wait to get my hands on Rebel!
April 6, 2013
With Scoundrel, Ms. Archer takes us adventure-loving romantics on a splendid journey around the Aegean Sea on the hunt for mystical treasure. Readers who enjoy Indiana Jones will get a kick out of this book, with its very real magic and a dash of steampunk-like adventure.
London is an admirable heroine. Despite the way she was raised, she wants to live her life, and have something grand to contribute. It took a lot of courage for her to break free from her family's expectations and restrictions, to realize that she was essentially orphaning herself. I loved that she was three-dimensional. She is both beautiful and intelligent. She is womanly and strong. What she isn't good at, she strives to improve. While loving a man like Bennett was a huge risk, she took the chance.
Bennett isn't my favorite type of hero. While I love a dangerous and edgy hero, I just don't have a taste for womanizers. I did like that though Bennett doesn't have a problem with loving and leaving women, he really does respect women and cherish them in his somewhat shallow way. When London comes into his life, he learns what saying "I love you" truly means. She doesn't force him to change. Instead, his love for her changes his feelings about his life with one woman in it. I liked how courageous Bennett was and his exploits help to make this book incredibly fun and exciting.
The romance between Bennett and London was good, but it's hard to me to get excited about a supposedly dead end/finite relationship in which sex is the main component. With that expectation that nothing would come of their time together except some good sex and companionship, I felt kind of sad for Bennett and London. What I did like was that each time they came together, it got harder for Bennett to hang onto his beliefs about love and forever afters.
I liked the secondary love story between Athena and Kallas. They challenged each other in pivotal ways and forced each other to reevaluate their own preconceived notions.
I like this world of magic where each culture has objects that are vital to them. There are a few 'wow' scenes in this book that I ate up. Let me say that if you are a Greek Mythology geek, you will too.
This book has some interesting things to say about Imperialism, the belief that one nation should forcibly ensure their superiority over others. I can't get behind that, even if I do have my share of patriotism simmering within. I could understand how Bennett and London and some of the other English Blades must have felt.
All in all, a very good book. While Bennett isn't my favorite hero in this series so far, I did like him. He was fun and exciting. He knows how to kick butt and he showed how much he did love London in the end.
Looking forward to the next two books, Rebel and Stranger, particularly my geeky darling, Catullus!
London is an admirable heroine. Despite the way she was raised, she wants to live her life, and have something grand to contribute. It took a lot of courage for her to break free from her family's expectations and restrictions, to realize that she was essentially orphaning herself. I loved that she was three-dimensional. She is both beautiful and intelligent. She is womanly and strong. What she isn't good at, she strives to improve. While loving a man like Bennett was a huge risk, she took the chance.
Bennett isn't my favorite type of hero. While I love a dangerous and edgy hero, I just don't have a taste for womanizers. I did like that though Bennett doesn't have a problem with loving and leaving women, he really does respect women and cherish them in his somewhat shallow way. When London comes into his life, he learns what saying "I love you" truly means. She doesn't force him to change. Instead, his love for her changes his feelings about his life with one woman in it. I liked how courageous Bennett was and his exploits help to make this book incredibly fun and exciting.
The romance between Bennett and London was good, but it's hard to me to get excited about a supposedly dead end/finite relationship in which sex is the main component. With that expectation that nothing would come of their time together except some good sex and companionship, I felt kind of sad for Bennett and London. What I did like was that each time they came together, it got harder for Bennett to hang onto his beliefs about love and forever afters.
I liked the secondary love story between Athena and Kallas. They challenged each other in pivotal ways and forced each other to reevaluate their own preconceived notions.
I like this world of magic where each culture has objects that are vital to them. There are a few 'wow' scenes in this book that I ate up. Let me say that if you are a Greek Mythology geek, you will too.
This book has some interesting things to say about Imperialism, the belief that one nation should forcibly ensure their superiority over others. I can't get behind that, even if I do have my share of patriotism simmering within. I could understand how Bennett and London and some of the other English Blades must have felt.
All in all, a very good book. While Bennett isn't my favorite hero in this series so far, I did like him. He was fun and exciting. He knows how to kick butt and he showed how much he did love London in the end.
Looking forward to the next two books, Rebel and Stranger, particularly my geeky darling, Catullus!
October 20, 2016
***** 5 ~ "Monkeys in hats" ~ Stars *****
This was a bit sci-fi-ish/paranormal? I don't know how to classify other than ...
IT WAS AWESOME.
I LOVED IT.
WHERE HAS THIS BEEN HIDING?!?!
The story is about Bennett, a cryptographer and consummate ladies man who is a member of a secret organization called the Blades of the Rose (they dedicate their lives to finding and protecting magical Sources from those wishing to use it against humanity), and London, a self taught linguist and English miss thrust into a dangerous war between good and evil. This was packed with flawlessly descriptive passages that painted the world Zoe Archer has created vividly. It had all the elements of a great story - humor, action, mystery, great characters, an imaginative plot and an epic love story.
I loved reading this. I enjoyed the adventure aspect, the magical elements, and even though Bennett had a history as a man who enjoyed his women, I found him to be entertaining, honest, and it didn't take me long to fall for him. Now, normally a connoisseur of ladies, like Bennett, do not score very high with me, but Bennett did a complete 180 as soon as his eyes caught sight of London.
Still, it was hard to forget her, even harder to ignore that strange, vivid moment when his fingers had touched her hand. In all his years, after countless encounters with a vast array of women, Bennett couldn't recall ever having so visceral, so immediate a reaction to touching a woman. And it had gone beyond the physical, too. A sudden profound connection with no known origin other than something in his body that recognized her, knew and needed her.
He wasn't your typical player, Bennett just loved women. He loved all types or women and he wasn't callous, disrespectful or disparaging towards them. He genuinely cared for them, in his own way. He was a handsome guy who lived day to day. He was charming and seductive and carefree. Although he fought himself and denied deeper, more lasting feelings for London, it wasn't long before he caved.
And London, she was his perfect match. Smart, brave and so ready to live and love. I liked her from the very first. It was hard to resist her brand of magic.
"When I am with the man I love, 'everything else' will disappear. I'll see only him. He will be the person I want to share everything with. If I am walking alone and I see something beautiful, like a wildflower poking up from the pavement, or something ridiculous, like a monkey in a hat, I will rush to tell him these things. And in the dark of night, he alone is who I will want beside me, and I'll listen to him breath in sleep and I shall put my hand upon him and hope he dreams of me, for I couldn't bear even a moment apart from him."
She was a blend of sheltered innocent and daring adventurer. She is the type of heroine I instantly connect with, because she's everything you'd want to be - courageous, independent and strong. It was a blast to see her go from fragile to kick ass. In the end, someone so awesome deserves getting everything her heart desired and I think Bennett definitely gave it his all - even if it did take him a few dense moments to realize it, Lol! It took a while, but the wait was worth it.
"Monkeys in hats," he said again, with a growing heat. "That's what I mean when I say, 'I love you.' I mean that you're the woman I need beside me, all day, every da. I mean that I can't imagine my life without you. I mean that when you hurt, it feels like a knife in me, cutting me from the inside out. I mean that I hate the idea of anyone but me touching you. Just the thought makes me want to kill. I mean that I hate the idea of me touching anyone but you. I meant that when I see a goddamn monkey wearing a goddamn hat, I want to tell you about it. You and no one else."
Needless to say, I was left with no doubt in my mind/heart that he was in love with London. That she was special, significant and the ONLY ONE when it came to his love - he was committed to her in mind, body and soul and I loved that. Not only did he give me that moment when he proved his love was forever but he was also damn alpha about it :)
"I don't care what words anyone uses . . . Use the words of all the languages you know. Or make some up. Doesn't matter. What matters is that I want to be with you forever. only you.
This was a five star read for me because I know this story and these awesome characters will live in my memories and every once in a while, I'll remember monkeys in hats, or recall a snippet of a scene about sea strumpets and I'll find myself hunting down this book and sitting down to a nice comfortable re-read.
This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. Ends with a HEA and doesn't have Cheating.
This was a bit sci-fi-ish/paranormal? I don't know how to classify other than ...
IT WAS AWESOME.
I LOVED IT.
WHERE HAS THIS BEEN HIDING?!?!
The story is about Bennett, a cryptographer and consummate ladies man who is a member of a secret organization called the Blades of the Rose (they dedicate their lives to finding and protecting magical Sources from those wishing to use it against humanity), and London, a self taught linguist and English miss thrust into a dangerous war between good and evil. This was packed with flawlessly descriptive passages that painted the world Zoe Archer has created vividly. It had all the elements of a great story - humor, action, mystery, great characters, an imaginative plot and an epic love story.
I loved reading this. I enjoyed the adventure aspect, the magical elements, and even though Bennett had a history as a man who enjoyed his women, I found him to be entertaining, honest, and it didn't take me long to fall for him. Now, normally a connoisseur of ladies, like Bennett, do not score very high with me, but Bennett did a complete 180 as soon as his eyes caught sight of London.
Still, it was hard to forget her, even harder to ignore that strange, vivid moment when his fingers had touched her hand. In all his years, after countless encounters with a vast array of women, Bennett couldn't recall ever having so visceral, so immediate a reaction to touching a woman. And it had gone beyond the physical, too. A sudden profound connection with no known origin other than something in his body that recognized her, knew and needed her.
He wasn't your typical player, Bennett just loved women. He loved all types or women and he wasn't callous, disrespectful or disparaging towards them. He genuinely cared for them, in his own way. He was a handsome guy who lived day to day. He was charming and seductive and carefree. Although he fought himself and denied deeper, more lasting feelings for London, it wasn't long before he caved.
And London, she was his perfect match. Smart, brave and so ready to live and love. I liked her from the very first. It was hard to resist her brand of magic.
"When I am with the man I love, 'everything else' will disappear. I'll see only him. He will be the person I want to share everything with. If I am walking alone and I see something beautiful, like a wildflower poking up from the pavement, or something ridiculous, like a monkey in a hat, I will rush to tell him these things. And in the dark of night, he alone is who I will want beside me, and I'll listen to him breath in sleep and I shall put my hand upon him and hope he dreams of me, for I couldn't bear even a moment apart from him."
She was a blend of sheltered innocent and daring adventurer. She is the type of heroine I instantly connect with, because she's everything you'd want to be - courageous, independent and strong. It was a blast to see her go from fragile to kick ass. In the end, someone so awesome deserves getting everything her heart desired and I think Bennett definitely gave it his all - even if it did take him a few dense moments to realize it, Lol! It took a while, but the wait was worth it.
"Monkeys in hats," he said again, with a growing heat. "That's what I mean when I say, 'I love you.' I mean that you're the woman I need beside me, all day, every da. I mean that I can't imagine my life without you. I mean that when you hurt, it feels like a knife in me, cutting me from the inside out. I mean that I hate the idea of anyone but me touching you. Just the thought makes me want to kill. I mean that I hate the idea of me touching anyone but you. I meant that when I see a goddamn monkey wearing a goddamn hat, I want to tell you about it. You and no one else."
Needless to say, I was left with no doubt in my mind/heart that he was in love with London. That she was special, significant and the ONLY ONE when it came to his love - he was committed to her in mind, body and soul and I loved that. Not only did he give me that moment when he proved his love was forever but he was also damn alpha about it :)
"I don't care what words anyone uses . . . Use the words of all the languages you know. Or make some up. Doesn't matter. What matters is that I want to be with you forever. only you.
This was a five star read for me because I know this story and these awesome characters will live in my memories and every once in a while, I'll remember monkeys in hats, or recall a snippet of a scene about sea strumpets and I'll find myself hunting down this book and sitting down to a nice comfortable re-read.
This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. Ends with a HEA and doesn't have Cheating.
February 19, 2012
caique (Greek fishing boad)
★★★★½ Loved this one. Why did I wait so long to continue this second in the Blades of the Rose series? It is a wonderful paranormal-romance action-adventure set in a stunning local: Greece! I enjoy a good “road trip” story, and this is one that takes place on the ocean. Seems to me to have more romance this time around than the first one did, or is that just my imagination? There’s certainly magic in the air, as well as on the sea. A delight!
I was as enchanted with the heroine, London, coming awake and aware of the world, as much as with the superhero, Bennett, realizing there really can be just one woman for him, especially if it is London. Bennett sure painted himself into a corner with his philosophy on the “three little words” and it was neat to see how Ms. Archer was going to get him out of it. Here is a hint: Regardless, here are more pictures of the beauty that pertains to this story:
The narrow streets of Athens, Greece, where we first meet Bennett Day, ladies man extraordinaire, recreating his own version of the Olympics.
[image error]
Poseidon's Temple
(Credit: by madux)
Temple of Hephaistos #1
(Credit: by logios)
Ancient agora, Athens.
[image error]
Monastiraki Square, Athens, Old Mosque in marketplace.
"Portara", the emblem of Naxos, overlooks the port's entrance on the Palatia islet. Built on such a site which stares at the sacred island of Delos.
(Credit: Portara Naxos by nbournas)
Demeter: Greek goddess of harvest, grain, fertility of the earth, the sanctity of marriage, the sacred law, and the cycle of life and death.
dolphins
[image error]
sea Nereid
Drawing of Colossus of Rhodes, (considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), illustrated in the Grolier Society's 1911 Book of Knowledge.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series:
★★★★½ Loved this one. Why did I wait so long to continue this second in the Blades of the Rose series? It is a wonderful paranormal-romance action-adventure set in a stunning local: Greece! I enjoy a good “road trip” story, and this is one that takes place on the ocean. Seems to me to have more romance this time around than the first one did, or is that just my imagination? There’s certainly magic in the air, as well as on the sea. A delight!
I was as enchanted with the heroine, London, coming awake and aware of the world, as much as with the superhero, Bennett, realizing there really can be just one woman for him, especially if it is London. Bennett sure painted himself into a corner with his philosophy on the “three little words” and it was neat to see how Ms. Archer was going to get him out of it. Here is a hint: Regardless, here are more pictures of the beauty that pertains to this story:
The narrow streets of Athens, Greece, where we first meet Bennett Day, ladies man extraordinaire, recreating his own version of the Olympics.
[image error]
Poseidon's Temple
(Credit: by madux)
Temple of Hephaistos #1
(Credit: by logios)
Ancient agora, Athens.
[image error]
Monastiraki Square, Athens, Old Mosque in marketplace.
"Portara", the emblem of Naxos, overlooks the port's entrance on the Palatia islet. Built on such a site which stares at the sacred island of Delos.
(Credit: Portara Naxos by nbournas)
Demeter: Greek goddess of harvest, grain, fertility of the earth, the sanctity of marriage, the sacred law, and the cycle of life and death.
dolphins
[image error]
sea Nereid
Drawing of Colossus of Rhodes, (considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), illustrated in the Grolier Society's 1911 Book of Knowledge.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series:
June 5, 2017
Trigger warnings: Super controlling parent, torture
3.5 stars.
Okay, here's the thing. I really like the stories in this series. They're set in fun locations. The magic system is super cool. The female characters are badasses. The male characters are...ridiculous, but they're always respectful of the badassery of their love interests. The villains are a little one dimensional, but you can't have it all.
Where this series falls flat for me is the romances and the sex scenes. Don't get me wrong, I think there's a great dynamic between the characters. But the sex scenes are SO CHEESY and questionably written.
I knew it wasn't going to be great when on their second encounter, London is asleep in her tent and Bennett sneaks in and watches her sleep and thinks "I could totally wake her up with sex right now". BRO. THAT IS RAPE. BACK RIGHT THE FUCK OFF. And, like, I get that he's meant to be a cad and a scoundrel. But noooooooooooope.
So yeah. The sex scenes were laughable (especially the part where his dick left "a trail of moisture" up the inside of her thigh, which just made me think of a snail), but the actual story? Pretty stinking fun.
3.5 stars.
Okay, here's the thing. I really like the stories in this series. They're set in fun locations. The magic system is super cool. The female characters are badasses. The male characters are...ridiculous, but they're always respectful of the badassery of their love interests. The villains are a little one dimensional, but you can't have it all.
Where this series falls flat for me is the romances and the sex scenes. Don't get me wrong, I think there's a great dynamic between the characters. But the sex scenes are SO CHEESY and questionably written.
I knew it wasn't going to be great when on their second encounter, London is asleep in her tent and Bennett sneaks in and watches her sleep and thinks "I could totally wake her up with sex right now". BRO. THAT IS RAPE. BACK RIGHT THE FUCK OFF. And, like, I get that he's meant to be a cad and a scoundrel. But noooooooooooope.
So yeah. The sex scenes were laughable (especially the part where his dick left "a trail of moisture" up the inside of her thigh, which just made me think of a snail), but the actual story? Pretty stinking fun.
August 29, 2015
Now that’s what I’m talking about! Scoundrel was the experience I was hoping and expecting to have with Warrior. What a relief to know that there’s nothing wrong with me after all! Now, I can completely understand the hype for this series. Loved. It. I may even consider joining the fangirl ranks if the next book hits me like this one did.
Before I go any further, if there’s anyone reading this review who, like me, was a little under-whelmed by Warrior, give the series another chance with this book. I complained in my review of Warrior that the book just didn’t grab me. Well Scoundrel grabbed me with both hands, gave me a good shake, and didn’t let go.
I also had some vague concerns about the pacing and narration of Warrior, but there was nothing vague about my complete and utter enjoyment of this novel, and the pace was absolutely perfect.
Blades of the Rose agent Bennett Day is dedicated to keeping the world’s magical Sources from the hands of the nefarious Heirs. That the cause provides him with action, adventure, excitement and danger on a daily basis is a very happy bonus. The fact that seducing women can sometimes get him the information or results he needs – well that’s just the icing on the cake.
Yes, Bennett is a scoundrel, and he loves every minute of it.
London Harcourt is the daughter of one of the Heir’s leaders. Being a woman, she has never been made privy to the work of her father and late husband, also an Heir and killed by the Blades of the Rose. Her life has been one of repression, first by her father, and then by her husband.
When London’s secretly self-taught linguistic skills become essential to the success of one the Heir’s missions, London discovers the truth about her family and herself. Despite the fact that they are potential enemies, Bennett and London cannot deny their fierce attraction to each other, and soon find themselves on the adventure of a lifetime through the Greek Isles.
Scoundrel is the perfect adventure romance, with the adventure and romance elements perfectly balanced and immensely satisfying. This book grabbed my attention from the very first page and never let go.
Bennett was a wonderful hero. I absolutely adored him with his devil-may-care attitude. He was honest and upfront about his reputation and intention to continue as something of a ladies man, believing himself incapable of committing to just one woman. I really appreciated his honesty with London. He determined that London should leave the richer for having known him, and he allowed her the freedom to discover and be herself, guiding and encouraging her along the way.
Seeing London find her wings was a pleasure to witness. I shared in her joy of her long denied freedom and it was wonderful to watch her finally living and breathing unstifled life. Her pleasure was infectious, and her adventurous spirit once uncovered was a perfect fit to Bennett. And watching him fall was just... *sigh* Even better, we didn’t have to wait 'til the last page.
I’m really looking forward to Rebel, because this book.... Monkeys in hats.
Before I go any further, if there’s anyone reading this review who, like me, was a little under-whelmed by Warrior, give the series another chance with this book. I complained in my review of Warrior that the book just didn’t grab me. Well Scoundrel grabbed me with both hands, gave me a good shake, and didn’t let go.
I also had some vague concerns about the pacing and narration of Warrior, but there was nothing vague about my complete and utter enjoyment of this novel, and the pace was absolutely perfect.
Blades of the Rose agent Bennett Day is dedicated to keeping the world’s magical Sources from the hands of the nefarious Heirs. That the cause provides him with action, adventure, excitement and danger on a daily basis is a very happy bonus. The fact that seducing women can sometimes get him the information or results he needs – well that’s just the icing on the cake.
Yes, Bennett is a scoundrel, and he loves every minute of it.
London Harcourt is the daughter of one of the Heir’s leaders. Being a woman, she has never been made privy to the work of her father and late husband, also an Heir and killed by the Blades of the Rose. Her life has been one of repression, first by her father, and then by her husband.
When London’s secretly self-taught linguistic skills become essential to the success of one the Heir’s missions, London discovers the truth about her family and herself. Despite the fact that they are potential enemies, Bennett and London cannot deny their fierce attraction to each other, and soon find themselves on the adventure of a lifetime through the Greek Isles.
Scoundrel is the perfect adventure romance, with the adventure and romance elements perfectly balanced and immensely satisfying. This book grabbed my attention from the very first page and never let go.
Bennett was a wonderful hero. I absolutely adored him with his devil-may-care attitude. He was honest and upfront about his reputation and intention to continue as something of a ladies man, believing himself incapable of committing to just one woman. I really appreciated his honesty with London. He determined that London should leave the richer for having known him, and he allowed her the freedom to discover and be herself, guiding and encouraging her along the way.
Seeing London find her wings was a pleasure to witness. I shared in her joy of her long denied freedom and it was wonderful to watch her finally living and breathing unstifled life. Her pleasure was infectious, and her adventurous spirit once uncovered was a perfect fit to Bennett. And watching him fall was just... *sigh* Even better, we didn’t have to wait 'til the last page.
I’m really looking forward to Rebel, because this book.... Monkeys in hats.
February 3, 2011
Four and a half stars rounded up.
I liked this installment in the "Blades of the Rose" series better than the previous. "Warrior" was very good, but this one captured my attention earlier and kept it longer. I really enjoyed the action and the romance -- it was an excellent mix.
The leads are great. Bennet is an unrepentant ladies' man and London is just finding her way in a totally new world. Their chemistry was very apparent and they were an engaging couple throughout. I did skim through some of the sex scenes ... sorry ... but the romance outside of the sack was what was the most compelling.
My one complaint about the series is the presentation of the villains. They're part of a group called "The Heirs" and they're out for the glory of England. Um. And? They say they work for the government, but is their work government sanctioned? It's hard to tell. And what of the other nationalities that have similar groups that have been referenced? Why are the Blades never running into any of them? They're all after the same "sources", right? For all the specificity regarding the "sources" I feel like the villains are left fairly vague. Seems lazy, especially when compared to the amazing detail of the rest of the narrative.
In any case, this installment is really enjoyable. I have the bundle so I've already got the next two on deck and I'll be getting to them in due time. With bundles it's hard not to just turn the page and continue on, but I've managed to stick with Dina's Rules.
I recommend this series to people who like adventure romance. It's highly entertaining, has unique settings and a bit of paranormal. Some have likened it to Indiana Jones and I think that fits. Enjoy.
I liked this installment in the "Blades of the Rose" series better than the previous. "Warrior" was very good, but this one captured my attention earlier and kept it longer. I really enjoyed the action and the romance -- it was an excellent mix.
The leads are great. Bennet is an unrepentant ladies' man and London is just finding her way in a totally new world. Their chemistry was very apparent and they were an engaging couple throughout. I did skim through some of the sex scenes ... sorry ... but the romance outside of the sack was what was the most compelling.
My one complaint about the series is the presentation of the villains. They're part of a group called "The Heirs" and they're out for the glory of England. Um. And? They say they work for the government, but is their work government sanctioned? It's hard to tell. And what of the other nationalities that have similar groups that have been referenced? Why are the Blades never running into any of them? They're all after the same "sources", right? For all the specificity regarding the "sources" I feel like the villains are left fairly vague. Seems lazy, especially when compared to the amazing detail of the rest of the narrative.
In any case, this installment is really enjoyable. I have the bundle so I've already got the next two on deck and I'll be getting to them in due time. With bundles it's hard not to just turn the page and continue on, but I've managed to stick with Dina's Rules.
I recommend this series to people who like adventure romance. It's highly entertaining, has unique settings and a bit of paranormal. Some have likened it to Indiana Jones and I think that fits. Enjoy.
December 25, 2010
This book was even better than the first one and I didn't think that would be possible. What I love about these stories is that we don't have silly fighting between our h/h. Instead we get them forming a strong and loving team in which to fight against evil.
These books are kind of like the Indiana Jones series except with a lot more romance and sex. Again Ms. Archer has given us two strong personalities that really work well together. I really liked Bennett and London as a couple. I am looking forward to the next one in the series.
These books are kind of like the Indiana Jones series except with a lot more romance and sex. Again Ms. Archer has given us two strong personalities that really work well together. I really liked Bennett and London as a couple. I am looking forward to the next one in the series.
June 1, 2011
That was fun!
Bring on the popcorn, cue the Indiana Jones theme music, and let the adventure begin! Scoundrel brings to mind those action/adventure movies I loved as a child. It’s a cross between the Indiana Jones movies and those old Sinbad movies – remember those? They had really bad special effects but were oh, so fun.
Scoundrel is a combination of a treasure hunt and a race to protect these special artifacts called Sources. The Source objects are protected by a secret dedicated group of men and women in an organization called the Blades of the Rose. An equally secret and powerful group called the Heirs of Albion wishes to collect these objects and exploit them for the glory of England.
Set in the very sunny and romantic Greek Isles in the 1870’s, our story begins in Athens where Bennett Day, a serial womanizer and a Blade is running away from an angry husband. The chase takes him through the city of Athens where he runs into the lovely and recently widowed London Harcourt. A chance meeting and Bennett is attracted to her, especially her archeological knowledge.
And so the attraction begins – slowly.
I loved this book. I enjoyed every moment. The main characters were interesting. How many women were educated in ancient languages in the 1870’s? I’m guessing not many. Not only is our heroine London well versed in these ancient languages, she is also brave and independent. I found the chemistry between London and Bennett wonderful. There was such a slow burn to this relationship. At times, I thought that the two of them would burst into flames, they were that hot.
I loved that our main characters traveled from island to island in a small sailing ship. Sailing ship, Greek Islands, how romantic is that? They are accompanied by Athena, a witch and Kallas the captain. Athena and Kallas have a love/hate relationship that is very entertaining.
London’s father was an absolutely horrible man. His anachronistic ideas about women were his downfall.
I enjoyed the magic in this book. The description of Athena battling the Chernock the Heir sorcerer was amazing. The addition of mythological creatures made the story come alive. Cattullus Graves’ inventions were extremely clever. I especially liked the folding glider wings. Very handy.
I’m looking forward to reading Rebel next.
Bring on the popcorn, cue the Indiana Jones theme music, and let the adventure begin! Scoundrel brings to mind those action/adventure movies I loved as a child. It’s a cross between the Indiana Jones movies and those old Sinbad movies – remember those? They had really bad special effects but were oh, so fun.
Scoundrel is a combination of a treasure hunt and a race to protect these special artifacts called Sources. The Source objects are protected by a secret dedicated group of men and women in an organization called the Blades of the Rose. An equally secret and powerful group called the Heirs of Albion wishes to collect these objects and exploit them for the glory of England.
Set in the very sunny and romantic Greek Isles in the 1870’s, our story begins in Athens where Bennett Day, a serial womanizer and a Blade is running away from an angry husband. The chase takes him through the city of Athens where he runs into the lovely and recently widowed London Harcourt. A chance meeting and Bennett is attracted to her, especially her archeological knowledge.
And so the attraction begins – slowly.
I loved this book. I enjoyed every moment. The main characters were interesting. How many women were educated in ancient languages in the 1870’s? I’m guessing not many. Not only is our heroine London well versed in these ancient languages, she is also brave and independent. I found the chemistry between London and Bennett wonderful. There was such a slow burn to this relationship. At times, I thought that the two of them would burst into flames, they were that hot.
I loved that our main characters traveled from island to island in a small sailing ship. Sailing ship, Greek Islands, how romantic is that? They are accompanied by Athena, a witch and Kallas the captain. Athena and Kallas have a love/hate relationship that is very entertaining.
London’s father was an absolutely horrible man. His anachronistic ideas about women were his downfall.
I enjoyed the magic in this book. The description of Athena battling the Chernock the Heir sorcerer was amazing. The addition of mythological creatures made the story come alive. Cattullus Graves’ inventions were extremely clever. I especially liked the folding glider wings. Very handy.
I’m looking forward to reading Rebel next.
March 22, 2011
In the second of the Blades of the Rose series, we see Bennett Day, the charming scoundrel, in a race across the seas with the Heirs of Albion to try and find a powerful sourse and keep it out of the Heirs hands. However, the only person who can read the ancient writings leading to the source is London Harcourt, the widow of a man he has killed, daughter to Joseph Edgworth the leader of the Heirs and the woman he cannot get out of his mind...
This was another great book in the cover, with another great bookcover to match! It had plenty of adventure, magic and romance. I really liked the chase across the highseas in this one and loved the storyline and following the clues to the source, however I preferred the romance in Warrior. I think this is more personal preference rather then one being better then the other. The romance in this one was more declarative and personally I got bored about hearing about London's courage and thirst for life! But I did like both the main characters of Bennett and London. Bennett was a charming and loveable rake who finally finds a woman that he is willing to devote his life and body to, and London has finally found an outlet for her curious and thrill seeking spirit after a lifetime of being repressed by her conservative father.
Scoudrel also has a secondary romance in it, with the beautiful and proud Athena, another member of the Blades and a witch and the earthy Kallo's, the ships captain. I love a secondary romance in the story and although there wasn't that much page time spent on this, it was told through London and Bennett's perception, I still enjoyed watching it unfold.
This book is also written really well, although I found it could be wordy and some of her sentences didn't quite flow correctly, over all she paints a beautiful and intriguing world of magic and the quest of the Blades.
So after reading the seond book in this series I would definately recommend this to any fans of romance, especially if they are looking for something a bit different to read.
The best and most original way to "I love you":
"I monkeys in hats you, too."
Bennett Day:
London Harcourt:
This was another great book in the cover, with another great bookcover to match! It had plenty of adventure, magic and romance. I really liked the chase across the highseas in this one and loved the storyline and following the clues to the source, however I preferred the romance in Warrior. I think this is more personal preference rather then one being better then the other. The romance in this one was more declarative and personally I got bored about hearing about London's courage and thirst for life! But I did like both the main characters of Bennett and London. Bennett was a charming and loveable rake who finally finds a woman that he is willing to devote his life and body to, and London has finally found an outlet for her curious and thrill seeking spirit after a lifetime of being repressed by her conservative father.
Scoudrel also has a secondary romance in it, with the beautiful and proud Athena, another member of the Blades and a witch and the earthy Kallo's, the ships captain. I love a secondary romance in the story and although there wasn't that much page time spent on this, it was told through London and Bennett's perception, I still enjoyed watching it unfold.
This book is also written really well, although I found it could be wordy and some of her sentences didn't quite flow correctly, over all she paints a beautiful and intriguing world of magic and the quest of the Blades.
So after reading the seond book in this series I would definately recommend this to any fans of romance, especially if they are looking for something a bit different to read.
The best and most original way to "I love you":
"I monkeys in hats you, too."
Bennett Day:
London Harcourt:
dnf-not-now-maybe-never
February 6, 2012Okay, I turned the page and saw two pages that contained a total of four paragraphs (two paragraphs on each page). Seriously? I can only take so much description, author.
This book gets the inaugural spot on my brand spankin' new "not-now-maybe-never" shelf. So...as I enter "don't finish a book you don't think you'll like" rehab, I am *deep breath* setting this one aside. *sobs* It's so hard to break my typical MO of always always finishing a book, but as so many people have pointed out, there are just too many out there to put the effort into reading something you think will require "effort" as opposed to "pleasure."
I said it in one of my status updates, and I'll say it again here: I'm not sure if Archer's writing style is for me. I like her voice generally from both main characters' POVs, but I don't appreciate her descriptions and setting. They just aren't interesting enough to merit the number of words she dedicates to them.
That pretty much sums it up. She's not a bad writer, and the "Blades of the Rose" world isn't terrible. It just isn't interesting enough for me to sift through pages of unimpressive description to get to the story.
This book gets the inaugural spot on my brand spankin' new "not-now-maybe-never" shelf. So...as I enter "don't finish a book you don't think you'll like" rehab, I am *deep breath* setting this one aside. *sobs* It's so hard to break my typical MO of always always finishing a book, but as so many people have pointed out, there are just too many out there to put the effort into reading something you think will require "effort" as opposed to "pleasure."
I said it in one of my status updates, and I'll say it again here: I'm not sure if Archer's writing style is for me. I like her voice generally from both main characters' POVs, but I don't appreciate her descriptions and setting. They just aren't interesting enough to merit the number of words she dedicates to them.
That pretty much sums it up. She's not a bad writer, and the "Blades of the Rose" world isn't terrible. It just isn't interesting enough for me to sift through pages of unimpressive description to get to the story.
January 14, 2011
I monkey in hats this series!!!
I enjoyed Warrior so much, and was a little worried Scoundrel couldn't live up to it, but it completely did. Bennett was a super sexy hero, and I loved London's strength and determination. She was no wilting flower heroine.
This book/series is filled with magic and adventure, and it's really so different from anything out there right now. It's paranormal with a lighthearted twist. So many paranormal series get bogged down in drama and intensity, and while these books definitely have their dramatic moments, it never takes itself too seriously. Where Warrior was an Indiana Jones type tale set in the desert, Scoundrel was a swashbuckling adventure on the seas.
I loved the secondary romance with Athena and Kallus. I'm excited to read the next book about the exiled Astrid. She has a very sad backstory, so it should be an emotional story. I hope we get to see more Cattalus Graves, whom I love, in the next book! I'm happy to see he has his own happy ending in the fourth book.
Can't recommend this series enough!
I enjoyed Warrior so much, and was a little worried Scoundrel couldn't live up to it, but it completely did. Bennett was a super sexy hero, and I loved London's strength and determination. She was no wilting flower heroine.
This book/series is filled with magic and adventure, and it's really so different from anything out there right now. It's paranormal with a lighthearted twist. So many paranormal series get bogged down in drama and intensity, and while these books definitely have their dramatic moments, it never takes itself too seriously. Where Warrior was an Indiana Jones type tale set in the desert, Scoundrel was a swashbuckling adventure on the seas.
I loved the secondary romance with Athena and Kallus. I'm excited to read the next book about the exiled Astrid. She has a very sad backstory, so it should be an emotional story. I hope we get to see more Cattalus Graves, whom I love, in the next book! I'm happy to see he has his own happy ending in the fourth book.
Can't recommend this series enough!
October 10, 2010
LOVED IT! I must say that Scoundrel did amaze me. Someone should make these book's into movie. Of course they would have to tame the heat down LOL.
Once again Zoe Archer has used her wonderful imagination in this book too. She wove a great story with love, magic and honor. This book was exciting from beginning to end. Non stop action with fantastic characters. I have no doubt in my mind that I will continue on with the next book, Rebel.
Once again Zoe Archer has used her wonderful imagination in this book too. She wove a great story with love, magic and honor. This book was exciting from beginning to end. Non stop action with fantastic characters. I have no doubt in my mind that I will continue on with the next book, Rebel.
September 28, 2010
Great characters, a vivid setting (sailing waters around Greece), thrilling adventure, and sizzling romance... another home run by Zoe Archer.
This series is about the Blades of the Rose, a secret group who's mission is to protect the ancient sources of magic. I really appreciate that such care is given to the details, and the magical elements aren't over the top. It's a top notch series so far!
(year: 1875) The daughter of an evil leader (but she doesn't know it), London raised herself secretly mastering ancient languages. When her secret is out she finds herself on a journey that will turn her world upside down... London is a heroine in all the best ways (smart, adventure loving, loyal...) and she meets her match with Bennett. He's the 'I love all the ladies, but when I'm not saving the world from bad guys' hero of our story. A member of the Blades, he finds himself in Greece tracking some serious bad guys when he meets up with our heroine...
What I really love about this book, and the previous (Warrior) is that she gives you such a vivid sense of being right there with the characters, but at the same time she keeps the story fast-paced and moving right along. More time is spent on the love scenes than I prefer, but overall they fit into the story well. I won't spoil it by sharing details- but the "I love you" scene towards the end? AWESOME.
I really enjoyed the secondary characters (The witch and the sea captain), as well as the fact that while this is a part of a series, it very much stands on it's own.
Zoe Archer is a ROCK STAR. Is it November yet? I'm ready for book #3...
This series is about the Blades of the Rose, a secret group who's mission is to protect the ancient sources of magic. I really appreciate that such care is given to the details, and the magical elements aren't over the top. It's a top notch series so far!
(year: 1875) The daughter of an evil leader (but she doesn't know it), London raised herself secretly mastering ancient languages. When her secret is out she finds herself on a journey that will turn her world upside down... London is a heroine in all the best ways (smart, adventure loving, loyal...) and she meets her match with Bennett. He's the 'I love all the ladies, but when I'm not saving the world from bad guys' hero of our story. A member of the Blades, he finds himself in Greece tracking some serious bad guys when he meets up with our heroine...
What I really love about this book, and the previous (Warrior) is that she gives you such a vivid sense of being right there with the characters, but at the same time she keeps the story fast-paced and moving right along. More time is spent on the love scenes than I prefer, but overall they fit into the story well. I won't spoil it by sharing details- but the "I love you" scene towards the end? AWESOME.
I really enjoyed the secondary characters (The witch and the sea captain), as well as the fact that while this is a part of a series, it very much stands on it's own.
Zoe Archer is a ROCK STAR. Is it November yet? I'm ready for book #3...
March 11, 2011
I have no idea why this book took me so long to finish. I would read a little and then think, "I should check my e-mails." Then read some more and then think, "I should clean the bathroom." I thought it would grab me the way Warrior had but it didn't.
This book had Bennett Day, from book #1, meeting his arch enemies' daughter in a marketplace. London is on her first trip outside of England after her mourning period is done. She thinks it's a vacation, but finds out that her father is not as nice as she thought he was and that Bennett is the one who killed her husband. Now she's in a quandary, go with the man who killed her husband or stay with her father even though he's out to conquer the world for England? I was going to automatically order the next book from the library but I'm going to wait awhile.
This book had Bennett Day, from book #1, meeting his arch enemies' daughter in a marketplace. London is on her first trip outside of England after her mourning period is done. She thinks it's a vacation, but finds out that her father is not as nice as she thought he was and that Bennett is the one who killed her husband. Now she's in a quandary, go with the man who killed her husband or stay with her father even though he's out to conquer the world for England? I was going to automatically order the next book from the library but I'm going to wait awhile.
October 24, 2010
Second book in this series, and I've got a much better idea of why I'm not loving it. The motivations are too simple, too black and white. It's not morally complicated, and without that confusion, I lose interest.
The descriptive elements are really well done, the descriptions of Greece seemed really pretty, but it's built on a frame that's way too simple. Also, it's very plot ticket-y. Like the Indiana Jones movies, sometimes this works, and sometimes it makes my eyes roll a bit.
Overall, I'm not sure I'll go out of my way to read this author again.
The descriptive elements are really well done, the descriptions of Greece seemed really pretty, but it's built on a frame that's way too simple. Also, it's very plot ticket-y. Like the Indiana Jones movies, sometimes this works, and sometimes it makes my eyes roll a bit.
Overall, I'm not sure I'll go out of my way to read this author again.
October 18, 2010
I loved it! Even more than the first one! This series is so much fun, and Bennett Day's story absolutely did not disappoint. I can't wait for the next one!!
October 12, 2010
Favorite Quote: “ I monkeys in hats you to.”
In Zoe Archer’s second installment of her exciting historical fantasy world, Scoundrel, we are introduced to Bennett Day-the ULTIMATE scoundrel. Bennett is a renewed cryptologist, fearless athlete and an enthusiastic seducer of women. He is currently trying to stay one step ahead of the Heirs and find a key source that could shift the balance of power through out the world. When he comes to the rescue of the beautiful widow London Harcourt in a small Greek market, he is instantly intrigued by her beauty and spirit. Bennett is not surprised to find out that London is as intelligent as she is beautiful. However, he is at a loss when its revealed that she is the daughter of the Blades greatest enemy and who is using her to locate the same source he is.
London Harcourt has always been under a man’s rule. From birth to widowhood she has been chained to the rigid expectations of her family and society. A beautiful, intelligent woman who has used deception to gain a foothold into the When her father offers her a chance to sail with him to Greece she agrees to help him hoping to bring some adventure into her dreary life. When she meets Bennett Day it’s as if her prayers were answered. Charming, seductive, and wickedly humorous London sees the beginning of a grand adventure.
And what grand adventure it is.
Ms Archer sets the tone for London’s and Bennett’s grand affair of body, soul, and eventually love among a fast paced action packed thriller. Weaving all this together with some Greek mythology makes this an exhilarating ride you won’t want to get off. I thoroughly enjoy the heroes and heroines that Ms. Archer creates. Strong, courageous, and filled with humor, these are characters that stay with you long after you have set the book down.
Read the rest of my review at http://www.smexybooks.com/2010/10/rev...
In Zoe Archer’s second installment of her exciting historical fantasy world, Scoundrel, we are introduced to Bennett Day-the ULTIMATE scoundrel. Bennett is a renewed cryptologist, fearless athlete and an enthusiastic seducer of women. He is currently trying to stay one step ahead of the Heirs and find a key source that could shift the balance of power through out the world. When he comes to the rescue of the beautiful widow London Harcourt in a small Greek market, he is instantly intrigued by her beauty and spirit. Bennett is not surprised to find out that London is as intelligent as she is beautiful. However, he is at a loss when its revealed that she is the daughter of the Blades greatest enemy and who is using her to locate the same source he is.
London Harcourt has always been under a man’s rule. From birth to widowhood she has been chained to the rigid expectations of her family and society. A beautiful, intelligent woman who has used deception to gain a foothold into the When her father offers her a chance to sail with him to Greece she agrees to help him hoping to bring some adventure into her dreary life. When she meets Bennett Day it’s as if her prayers were answered. Charming, seductive, and wickedly humorous London sees the beginning of a grand adventure.
And what grand adventure it is.
Ms Archer sets the tone for London’s and Bennett’s grand affair of body, soul, and eventually love among a fast paced action packed thriller. Weaving all this together with some Greek mythology makes this an exhilarating ride you won’t want to get off. I thoroughly enjoy the heroes and heroines that Ms. Archer creates. Strong, courageous, and filled with humor, these are characters that stay with you long after you have set the book down.
Read the rest of my review at http://www.smexybooks.com/2010/10/rev...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2013
The Blades are trying to save magic once again in book 2 of this series. This books is about London Harcourt, she is coming out of official mourning and she is ready to start living her life. What London finds out is her father is a member of The Heir's, the group who is trying to steal magic for their own use. Bennett Day is a member of the the Blades and man who loves to be a scoundrel, he loves women, loves sex.
Once again I am immersed in another world, magic, adventure, passion, sex, and it's a historical to boot! i loved it! I loved London Harcourt (not her name though), she is an independent, outspoken, woman. She doesn't need a man to tell her what to do, in fact in more then one instance it is her not Bennett who takes the lead in their sexual encounters! (you go girl).
Bennett Day is a lovable scoundrel, he definitely loves his sex and he loves every woman he is with. He is funny, sweet, strong and he is totally convinced he is incapable of love . As much as he likes London he is totally upfront with her that their relationship does not have a future and never will. But he very much wants to enjoy the "now", so they go about having steamy sex, YAY!
I enjoyed the dialogue between these two strong characters, they spoke as equals no "damsel in distress" here. And I loved the secondary characters in this book, solid enjoyable characters. Looking for a historical adventure with magic and lovable characters, give this one a try!
September 2, 2018
What I adore about these books is that there is a fucking plot!! Seriously! A romance novel with an honest to god good plot! I was amazed when I realized this in the first book and so happy to discover it wasn't just an accident, but that this book has one too! And it was awesome!
I loved the characters of Bennett and London. He was a total unrepentant rouge and she was so intelligent and eager for life! It was refreshing to have characters who didn't apologize for their personalities even if others thought them immoral or crazy! LOL! Then there were the secondary characters of Kallas and Athena who blew me away and frankly could have had their own book with their intense passion and initial hatred of one another!
The settings of Greece were amazing, beautiful, and felt so accurate! I love Greece and it has some of the more amazing views I have ever seen, and reading about places I have been in real life in this book felt like being back their all over again! The author must have traveled there because she got even the feelings of the atmosphere of these places right. I loved it!
All in all I can't wait to read more of this series, or anything else the writer puts out!
I loved the characters of Bennett and London. He was a total unrepentant rouge and she was so intelligent and eager for life! It was refreshing to have characters who didn't apologize for their personalities even if others thought them immoral or crazy! LOL! Then there were the secondary characters of Kallas and Athena who blew me away and frankly could have had their own book with their intense passion and initial hatred of one another!
The settings of Greece were amazing, beautiful, and felt so accurate! I love Greece and it has some of the more amazing views I have ever seen, and reading about places I have been in real life in this book felt like being back their all over again! The author must have traveled there because she got even the feelings of the atmosphere of these places right. I loved it!
All in all I can't wait to read more of this series, or anything else the writer puts out!
March 28, 2023
Re-read in February 2011
More than 5 stars
Just wanna said :
Bennett Day (his name was from Elizabeth Bennett, from the famous Pride and Prejudice, blame his mother because of that, but he lucky than his brother that have name Fitzwilliam Darcy Day *lol*) really a rake, rogue, charmer, cheat, bastard, libertine, a SCOUNDREL , but he finally meet his downfall in Victoria Regina Gloriana London Edgeworth Harcourt (fyuuuh, really long name, eh?) or London Harcourt for the short.
The conclusion :
- I'm "monkey in hat" to Bennett :))
- I love the setting in this book (woo, wooo, I want to go to Greece!!)
- The story are fast paced (a little bit slow in the beginning), full action packed, and magical. Me likey!!!
- The cover is nom, nom, nom, and Bennett is my nom, nom, boyfriend ;)
Looking for historical stories mix with paranormal, magic, action, and steamy read? The Blades of The Rose by Zoe Archer is your answer and A MUST READ!
More than 5 stars
Just wanna said :
Bennett Day (his name was from Elizabeth Bennett, from the famous Pride and Prejudice, blame his mother because of that, but he lucky than his brother that have name Fitzwilliam Darcy Day *lol*) really a rake, rogue, charmer, cheat, bastard, libertine, a SCOUNDREL , but he finally meet his downfall in Victoria Regina Gloriana London Edgeworth Harcourt (fyuuuh, really long name, eh?) or London Harcourt for the short.
The conclusion :
- I'm "monkey in hat" to Bennett :))
- I love the setting in this book (woo, wooo, I want to go to Greece!!)
- The story are fast paced (a little bit slow in the beginning), full action packed, and magical. Me likey!!!
- The cover is nom, nom, nom, and Bennett is my nom, nom, boyfriend ;)
Looking for historical stories mix with paranormal, magic, action, and steamy read? The Blades of The Rose by Zoe Archer is your answer and A MUST READ!
October 25, 2010
Wellllll I dunno, this one didn't thrill me like the first (Warrior) did. I guess I didn't love the protagonist girl as much and the bad guys were SO BAD, like "muhahahah"-ville.
There was a lot that COULD have been more interesting, but the reality checks didn't work for me (like SPOILER: she was so easy to leave her family, but how was she actually gonna pay the bills if the Blades didn't take care of her? In that age, there weren't a lot of lady options, you know? Seemed like some interesting conflict that was skimmed over.) Also, like the last one, the naughty language is jolting when you come across it in such a formal setting, lol, but I got over that.
It was still fun I just felt like it was very similar to the last one in structure and the characters. The next one looks to be a cool one though.
There was a lot that COULD have been more interesting, but the reality checks didn't work for me (like SPOILER: she was so easy to leave her family, but how was she actually gonna pay the bills if the Blades didn't take care of her? In that age, there weren't a lot of lady options, you know? Seemed like some interesting conflict that was skimmed over.) Also, like the last one, the naughty language is jolting when you come across it in such a formal setting, lol, but I got over that.
It was still fun I just felt like it was very similar to the last one in structure and the characters. The next one looks to be a cool one though.
December 24, 2010
Again, a great story with a great hero/heroine combination and fantastic weaving of magic. Also, amazingly, and just like the first in the series, the cover is EXACTLY how I imagine the hero would look. The way the Greek setting is used to incorporate mythology is really lovely.
I like the way the heroine manages to move from frustration at the way her position restrains her to focusing on the recovery and safe-keeping of the Source. It's nicely done, and means that the characters progress in a realistic way.
The secondary romance is also great.
4 stars, and now onto Number 3.
I like the way the heroine manages to move from frustration at the way her position restrains her to focusing on the recovery and safe-keeping of the Source. It's nicely done, and means that the characters progress in a realistic way.
The secondary romance is also great.
4 stars, and now onto Number 3.
October 13, 2010
This author has a great way with words. The scenes of sailing on a caique in the Aegean are nothing short of amazing. They are sooo incredibly close to the real thing! She either has those sort of experiences or she has made some extremely thorough research. It's very refreshing to finally see a writer do homage to the real habits of the greek islanders. Aside from that I was vastly entertained by the plot and characters both in this book and the first in the series. Anyone who enjoys adventure should read them. I'm definitely buying the next two as soon as they become available
July 16, 2022
Kat's Book Report - Contains Spoilers - For my own failing memory...
Lately, one of the ways I’ve been finding new Fantasy Romance books is by mining the literary awards database for all the past winners of the RITA for Paranormal Romance. I came across the book Rebel, book 3 in The Blades of the Rose series, and was intrigued so I added it to my TBR, not really sure which square I’d use it for. I was about to dig into the series, when unexpectedly a Historical Romance writer (Eva Leigh) who I’ve read in the past and follow on Twitter posted about this exact series and that she had written it under the penname Zoe Archer. I had no idea! It seemed as though the fates aligned to encourage me to read this series, and so I decided to dive in.
This review was originally written as part of a personal project to complete an all Fantasy Romance card for r/fantasy’s 2022 Book Bingo. All opinions are my own.
It didn’t take me long to figure out which square was best for this series – Historical Fantasy. Why? Because this series reads and feels like a Historical Romance. The writing, the structure, the tone – you can tell it is written by a prominent Historical Romance author. I think one of the things I found unique about this series was the fact that it’s an accurate Historial Romance first and Fantasy second – the magic system and world-building were layered atop of the accurate historical setting. In some respects, the Fantasy plot is suppoting!
The series takes during the late Victorian era. The main characters are all British and are fighting a war for the posession of magical Sources. The Blades of the Rose are a secret society of English men and women who are protecting ancient artifacts – Sources – from falling into the wrong hands. The Heirs of Albion are another secret society in opposition to the Blades; the Heirs are Imperialists, their goal is to acquire as many Sources as possible with the intent of using their powerful magic to promote the expansion of the British Empire and establish England as the center of the world. These books have a strong anti-colonialism theme.
This world is our world – it is an accurate historical representation. Magic is simply layered on top. Magical Sources are artifacts pulled from various traditions and myths. In other words, the magic is that these myths are real and are sources of incredible power. For example, in the first book we learn that many historical battles were actually won due to an army in possession of one of the Sources.
What’s great about this series is that although the main characters are all English, they are traveling around the world to find and protect the Sources. The first book takes place in Mongolia and the second in Greece. This really ups the ante in terms of history, because not only is English history being referenced, but the reader also becomes immersed in some of the culture and history of the location where the Blades and the Heirs are hunting for the Source.
I picked the second book in this series to review – Scoundrel – because it blew me away. I’d been in a reading slump, and this book pulled me right out of it. It had so many of the romance tropes I love all tied together nicely in a neat little package. For me, this one was all about the character and relationship arc and how beautifully Archer developed both.
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Bennett and London. This is a true enemies-to-lovers story, because London is the daughter of one of the Heirs and Bennett is a Blade. They are sworn enemies, and the path they take to become allies is so well-constructed and natural, it was a pleasure to read. London’s character arc as Bennett encourages and supports her to grow into her personal power after being sheltered and held back by her father is magnificent.
One of my pet peeves in HR is when the rake really isn’t a rake. When the title of the book and characters referring to him as a rake are the only things that tell me that the MMC is a scoundrel, I take issue. But that is not the case here and I absolutely loved it. Bennett is set up as the quintessential rake, the opening scene showing him being chased through the streets by an angry husband. Heck! He even slept with the other woman in their group of allies! Even after he and London come together, he admits to her he can’t bind himself to one woman or love her the way she wants. The transformation of Bennett’s character given his love for London is perfection. This is one of the best “reformed rake” stories I’ve ever read.
And the steam – whew! The tension between these two characters is palpable and their encounters absolutely delicious. In particular, the scene between them on the ruins was incredibly erotic. I knew Archer could write wonderfully explicit and erotic sex scenes from her HR novels, and she does not disappoint here!
The adventure was just as compelling as the romance. This book has strong Indiana Jones / The Mummy vibes – a true treasure hunt filled with riddles, hidden maps, traps, all to uncover the location of the hidden magical treasure. They were truly a team working together to find the lost artifact and defeat their enemies. Archer also really stepped up the magic in this second installment. Unlike the first, this book also had powerful sorcery, wielding both by a powerful witch Blade named Athena and an evil Heir Chernock as well as magical creatures. The pacing and balance between the fantastical and historical was perfectly achieved.
Leigh/Archer’s prose is delicious without being overwrought. She’s such an amazing writer, and her prose is consistent across the various genres in which she writes.
You don’t have to read the first book in order to enjoy the second. There is some backstory presented in the first, but the majority of it is covered in the second book, so the only thing you’d miss out on is references to the plot of the first. That being said, the first book is still an enjoyable read. I will read on in this series. It’s a total of four books and the last two take us to the wilds of northern Canada and then to Chicago. I hope you enjoy this series as much as I’m enjoying it!
Lately, one of the ways I’ve been finding new Fantasy Romance books is by mining the literary awards database for all the past winners of the RITA for Paranormal Romance. I came across the book Rebel, book 3 in The Blades of the Rose series, and was intrigued so I added it to my TBR, not really sure which square I’d use it for. I was about to dig into the series, when unexpectedly a Historical Romance writer (Eva Leigh) who I’ve read in the past and follow on Twitter posted about this exact series and that she had written it under the penname Zoe Archer. I had no idea! It seemed as though the fates aligned to encourage me to read this series, and so I decided to dive in.
This review was originally written as part of a personal project to complete an all Fantasy Romance card for r/fantasy’s 2022 Book Bingo. All opinions are my own.
It didn’t take me long to figure out which square was best for this series – Historical Fantasy. Why? Because this series reads and feels like a Historical Romance. The writing, the structure, the tone – you can tell it is written by a prominent Historical Romance author. I think one of the things I found unique about this series was the fact that it’s an accurate Historial Romance first and Fantasy second – the magic system and world-building were layered atop of the accurate historical setting. In some respects, the Fantasy plot is suppoting!
The series takes during the late Victorian era. The main characters are all British and are fighting a war for the posession of magical Sources. The Blades of the Rose are a secret society of English men and women who are protecting ancient artifacts – Sources – from falling into the wrong hands. The Heirs of Albion are another secret society in opposition to the Blades; the Heirs are Imperialists, their goal is to acquire as many Sources as possible with the intent of using their powerful magic to promote the expansion of the British Empire and establish England as the center of the world. These books have a strong anti-colonialism theme.
This world is our world – it is an accurate historical representation. Magic is simply layered on top. Magical Sources are artifacts pulled from various traditions and myths. In other words, the magic is that these myths are real and are sources of incredible power. For example, in the first book we learn that many historical battles were actually won due to an army in possession of one of the Sources.
What’s great about this series is that although the main characters are all English, they are traveling around the world to find and protect the Sources. The first book takes place in Mongolia and the second in Greece. This really ups the ante in terms of history, because not only is English history being referenced, but the reader also becomes immersed in some of the culture and history of the location where the Blades and the Heirs are hunting for the Source.
I picked the second book in this series to review – Scoundrel – because it blew me away. I’d been in a reading slump, and this book pulled me right out of it. It had so many of the romance tropes I love all tied together nicely in a neat little package. For me, this one was all about the character and relationship arc and how beautifully Archer developed both.
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Bennett and London. This is a true enemies-to-lovers story, because London is the daughter of one of the Heirs and Bennett is a Blade. They are sworn enemies, and the path they take to become allies is so well-constructed and natural, it was a pleasure to read. London’s character arc as Bennett encourages and supports her to grow into her personal power after being sheltered and held back by her father is magnificent.
One of my pet peeves in HR is when the rake really isn’t a rake. When the title of the book and characters referring to him as a rake are the only things that tell me that the MMC is a scoundrel, I take issue. But that is not the case here and I absolutely loved it. Bennett is set up as the quintessential rake, the opening scene showing him being chased through the streets by an angry husband. Heck! He even slept with the other woman in their group of allies! Even after he and London come together, he admits to her he can’t bind himself to one woman or love her the way she wants. The transformation of Bennett’s character given his love for London is perfection. This is one of the best “reformed rake” stories I’ve ever read.
And the steam – whew! The tension between these two characters is palpable and their encounters absolutely delicious. In particular, the scene between them on the ruins was incredibly erotic. I knew Archer could write wonderfully explicit and erotic sex scenes from her HR novels, and she does not disappoint here!
The adventure was just as compelling as the romance. This book has strong Indiana Jones / The Mummy vibes – a true treasure hunt filled with riddles, hidden maps, traps, all to uncover the location of the hidden magical treasure. They were truly a team working together to find the lost artifact and defeat their enemies. Archer also really stepped up the magic in this second installment. Unlike the first, this book also had powerful sorcery, wielding both by a powerful witch Blade named Athena and an evil Heir Chernock as well as magical creatures. The pacing and balance between the fantastical and historical was perfectly achieved.
Leigh/Archer’s prose is delicious without being overwrought. She’s such an amazing writer, and her prose is consistent across the various genres in which she writes.
You don’t have to read the first book in order to enjoy the second. There is some backstory presented in the first, but the majority of it is covered in the second book, so the only thing you’d miss out on is references to the plot of the first. That being said, the first book is still an enjoyable read. I will read on in this series. It’s a total of four books and the last two take us to the wilds of northern Canada and then to Chicago. I hope you enjoy this series as much as I’m enjoying it!
October 19, 2010
With its action, adventure, danger, magic and romance mixed with exotic locales, wonderful characters and slimy bad guys all wrapped in the author’s talent for storytelling, this is a wonderful and fun series. And I am really enjoying it.
“Scoundrel” in the second book in Zoe Archer’s The Blades of the Rose series. This time around we follow Bennett Day, a Blade (a secret society charged with guarding the world’s magic), who has been deployed to Greece where the annoying and self serving Heirs have gathered. They only reason the Heirs gather anywhere is when they are close to discovering the location of a Magical Source. The Heirs want to steal the world’s magic and use it to empower England and make it the ultimate ruling country. Once Bennett arrives in Greece, he meets a lovely English lady who happens to be the daughter of one of the Heirs. He’s confused by why she is there (since the Heirs never employ women) but soon finds out that she is the key to finding the Source that he must get to before the Heirs do.
London Harcourt has a secret. She is an expert in linguistics. Especially the most ancient of languages. That is it was her secret until recently, when her father discovered it. You see, ladies in 1875 England aren’t supposed to be smart beyond what they need to make proper wives. London’s father, Edgeworth, happens to be one of the Heirs’ inner circle and needs London’s talent to decipher the writings they have recently discovered in Greece. London is widowed and knows nothing of the Heirs or of the existence of magic. Once she arrives in Greece, she is kidnapped by Bennett and his associate Athena and told the truth about her father, the Heirs and the existence of the Blades of the Rose. London is shocked…and has a difficult decision to make. Does she continue with her father in his mission or does she join the Blades and Bennett, and leave her entire life as she knows it behind?
I really enjoyed watching London grow and become her own person throughout this story. She is craving adventure and not afraid to get her hands dirty. She is treated like a delicate English rose by her father and his peers, but in truth she is quite the little spitfire. And she is a perfect match for Bennett. Bennett has a reputation for being quite the scoundrel and unwilling to attach himself to any one woman. His partners tend to just take whatever he is prepared to give and be happy with that. London is not taking his crap and he’s a little taken aback. It’s great! Bennett is fantastic and funny.
I thought the action and adventure and danger in “Warrior” was intense, but it was nowhere near the levels you see in “Scoundrel”. It was definitely turned up a notch in this one. Something else that was even better this time around was the supporting characters. Athena Galanos, a born witch whose family is proudly made up of women who only use men as sperm donors, and Nikos Kallas, the ship captain who agrees to help charter the Greek seas alongside the Blades were wonderful. They also had quite a bit of chemistry on the page, which was super fun to witness! It’s always nice when the supporting cast adds as much to the story as the lead characters.
I am very happy that I have decided to continue with this series, and “Scoundrel” has left me wanting even more. I mentioned exotic locales in my opening paragraph… Well “Rebel”, the next book in the series, is going to be taking place in the most exotic locale to date. It’s taking place in Canada! So you know it will be the best book so far! ;) Expect “Rebel” in stores October 26th 2010 and the fourth book, “Stranger”, where we will finally know all about the brilliant but somewhat mysterious Catullus Graves, to hit bookstore shelves November 23rd 2010.
4.5 stars
“Scoundrel” in the second book in Zoe Archer’s The Blades of the Rose series. This time around we follow Bennett Day, a Blade (a secret society charged with guarding the world’s magic), who has been deployed to Greece where the annoying and self serving Heirs have gathered. They only reason the Heirs gather anywhere is when they are close to discovering the location of a Magical Source. The Heirs want to steal the world’s magic and use it to empower England and make it the ultimate ruling country. Once Bennett arrives in Greece, he meets a lovely English lady who happens to be the daughter of one of the Heirs. He’s confused by why she is there (since the Heirs never employ women) but soon finds out that she is the key to finding the Source that he must get to before the Heirs do.
London Harcourt has a secret. She is an expert in linguistics. Especially the most ancient of languages. That is it was her secret until recently, when her father discovered it. You see, ladies in 1875 England aren’t supposed to be smart beyond what they need to make proper wives. London’s father, Edgeworth, happens to be one of the Heirs’ inner circle and needs London’s talent to decipher the writings they have recently discovered in Greece. London is widowed and knows nothing of the Heirs or of the existence of magic. Once she arrives in Greece, she is kidnapped by Bennett and his associate Athena and told the truth about her father, the Heirs and the existence of the Blades of the Rose. London is shocked…and has a difficult decision to make. Does she continue with her father in his mission or does she join the Blades and Bennett, and leave her entire life as she knows it behind?
I really enjoyed watching London grow and become her own person throughout this story. She is craving adventure and not afraid to get her hands dirty. She is treated like a delicate English rose by her father and his peers, but in truth she is quite the little spitfire. And she is a perfect match for Bennett. Bennett has a reputation for being quite the scoundrel and unwilling to attach himself to any one woman. His partners tend to just take whatever he is prepared to give and be happy with that. London is not taking his crap and he’s a little taken aback. It’s great! Bennett is fantastic and funny.
I thought the action and adventure and danger in “Warrior” was intense, but it was nowhere near the levels you see in “Scoundrel”. It was definitely turned up a notch in this one. Something else that was even better this time around was the supporting characters. Athena Galanos, a born witch whose family is proudly made up of women who only use men as sperm donors, and Nikos Kallas, the ship captain who agrees to help charter the Greek seas alongside the Blades were wonderful. They also had quite a bit of chemistry on the page, which was super fun to witness! It’s always nice when the supporting cast adds as much to the story as the lead characters.
I am very happy that I have decided to continue with this series, and “Scoundrel” has left me wanting even more. I mentioned exotic locales in my opening paragraph… Well “Rebel”, the next book in the series, is going to be taking place in the most exotic locale to date. It’s taking place in Canada! So you know it will be the best book so far! ;) Expect “Rebel” in stores October 26th 2010 and the fourth book, “Stranger”, where we will finally know all about the brilliant but somewhat mysterious Catullus Graves, to hit bookstore shelves November 23rd 2010.
4.5 stars
November 14, 2010
If you remember, the other week I reviewed WARRIOR, the first book in Zoe Archer's Blades of the Rose series. I stated that I loved the premise, but the pacing and other factors made me not connect to the story like I wanted to. I stated that I would keep reading the series because the premise was so unique and interesting. So, I picked up SCOUNDREL not expecting much and . . .
I was like WOW!
I laughed from the first page and SCOUNDREL didn't disappoint as I kept reading. I think now that the problem with WARRIOR that she spent so much time introducing her world and she fell in love with that particular setting that the pacing dragged to me. I didn't feel like that in SCOUNDREL even though it was still two people going on a journey. I believe the reason why I didn't have the "Are We There Yet," feeling with SCOUNDREL like I did with WARRIOR is because of the strength of London and Bennett as individuals. London and Bennet are two skillfully, three-dimensional characters and I loved as each of their layers peeled away. I totally bought into their relationship and they're happily ever after. London had such a transformation to go from to accepting Bennet, her father's reality, to discovering herself as a woman, and I loved how Ms. Archer skillfully drew out that transformation.
If you haven't read this series, you are totally missing out. You must, must, must read this series.
Just a warning. These are not books that you can quickly scan through; at least they aren't for me. I am usually a quick reader, but I find it literally impossible to finish one of her novels in under a week and I usually have to read something else while I'm reading one of her books. Each word Ms. Archer crafts is lyrical and a journey in itself. The words she crafts are a journey to the senses and it's impossible to have your eyes quickly scan the pages. For example:
Certain moments in one's life would always be returned to, even years, decades later. Some of them were painful- heartbreak, mortification, loss, but there were others that had the clarity and perfection of cut gems, to sparkle against the velvet drape of memory. And, as the years progressed and unfolded in their relentless march, again and again would the mind revisit those moments. Eating a plum, the juices running down your hand, as you walked an esplanade along the shore. The day that the weather cleared and the ground was finally firm enough to be ridden upon, and the leap of your heart as your horse took the first fence. A new old book being delivered and unwrapped from its brown paper, sitting upon your desk, full of possibility, and the musty, rich smell of its pages as you opened it.
I mean come the f on. Remember in National Treasure (what you never watched that movie, where have you been) where Benjamin and Abigail were talking and Abigail says, no one talks like that and Benjamin says yeah, but they think it. I mean, no one writes like this anymore . . . except for Zoe Archer.
I've become a convert.
I was like WOW!
I laughed from the first page and SCOUNDREL didn't disappoint as I kept reading. I think now that the problem with WARRIOR that she spent so much time introducing her world and she fell in love with that particular setting that the pacing dragged to me. I didn't feel like that in SCOUNDREL even though it was still two people going on a journey. I believe the reason why I didn't have the "Are We There Yet," feeling with SCOUNDREL like I did with WARRIOR is because of the strength of London and Bennett as individuals. London and Bennet are two skillfully, three-dimensional characters and I loved as each of their layers peeled away. I totally bought into their relationship and they're happily ever after. London had such a transformation to go from to accepting Bennet, her father's reality, to discovering herself as a woman, and I loved how Ms. Archer skillfully drew out that transformation.
If you haven't read this series, you are totally missing out. You must, must, must read this series.
Just a warning. These are not books that you can quickly scan through; at least they aren't for me. I am usually a quick reader, but I find it literally impossible to finish one of her novels in under a week and I usually have to read something else while I'm reading one of her books. Each word Ms. Archer crafts is lyrical and a journey in itself. The words she crafts are a journey to the senses and it's impossible to have your eyes quickly scan the pages. For example:
Certain moments in one's life would always be returned to, even years, decades later. Some of them were painful- heartbreak, mortification, loss, but there were others that had the clarity and perfection of cut gems, to sparkle against the velvet drape of memory. And, as the years progressed and unfolded in their relentless march, again and again would the mind revisit those moments. Eating a plum, the juices running down your hand, as you walked an esplanade along the shore. The day that the weather cleared and the ground was finally firm enough to be ridden upon, and the leap of your heart as your horse took the first fence. A new old book being delivered and unwrapped from its brown paper, sitting upon your desk, full of possibility, and the musty, rich smell of its pages as you opened it.
I mean come the f on. Remember in National Treasure (what you never watched that movie, where have you been) where Benjamin and Abigail were talking and Abigail says, no one talks like that and Benjamin says yeah, but they think it. I mean, no one writes like this anymore . . . except for Zoe Archer.
I've become a convert.
September 30, 2010
I have been enjoying this difficult to categorize series (a blend of historical romance, paranormal and action adventure) and Scoundrel is my absolute favorite so far! I love everything about this book. From the incredibly sexy Bennett, the romance, to the setting of Greece - this is one exciting ride.
Bennett is the scoundrel in question when he stumbles upon London Harcourt. He rides in to save the damsel in distress but of course as with all of Zoe’s books, London can take care of herself. In fact she can be of more help to Bennett and his cause than he is to her. Bennett is smitten. They embark on a casual romance, neither wanting to be tied down but as you know that never works out very well….lol
But here’s the twist, Bennett is a member of the Blades of the Rose, a group that protects the world’s magic from people who would use it for evil purposes. London is the daughter of the enemy – the Heirs. Her knowledge can help the Blades but in doing so she will betray her father.
Aside from the smart, action packed, sexy tale that I have come to expect in Zoe’s stories, Scoundrel gave me a relationship that I felt invested in. Bennett and London have very definite ideas going in to their relationship and have to make some tough choices if they want to take it further than just a fling. There comes a time that a decision needs to be made. Will Bennett be able to commit to just one woman? Even if she is the enemies daughter? And will London turn her back on her family to be with the man she loves? These two sizzle right off the page! They have some very hot scenes together but what differentiates this couple is the crackling emotion between them whenever they are together. I loved them.
The fact that Bennett's greatest enemy is actually evil and is also London's father adds an element of real danger that doesn't often exsist in this type of book.
Thalia from Warrior is still my favorite heroine in the Blades series so far, but London has her own strengths and is great match for Bennett. She loves him but isn’t clingy and is willing to be on her own if need be. Bennett….ahhh…..I love him. Scoundrel = auto love in my book but he is upfront about his intentions with the women he is involved with and once he realizes how he feels about London he doesn’t play games.
Scoundrel will be coming out October 1st. Go read Warrior so you’ll be ready for Scoundrel!
Bennett is the scoundrel in question when he stumbles upon London Harcourt. He rides in to save the damsel in distress but of course as with all of Zoe’s books, London can take care of herself. In fact she can be of more help to Bennett and his cause than he is to her. Bennett is smitten. They embark on a casual romance, neither wanting to be tied down but as you know that never works out very well….lol
But here’s the twist, Bennett is a member of the Blades of the Rose, a group that protects the world’s magic from people who would use it for evil purposes. London is the daughter of the enemy – the Heirs. Her knowledge can help the Blades but in doing so she will betray her father.
Aside from the smart, action packed, sexy tale that I have come to expect in Zoe’s stories, Scoundrel gave me a relationship that I felt invested in. Bennett and London have very definite ideas going in to their relationship and have to make some tough choices if they want to take it further than just a fling. There comes a time that a decision needs to be made. Will Bennett be able to commit to just one woman? Even if she is the enemies daughter? And will London turn her back on her family to be with the man she loves? These two sizzle right off the page! They have some very hot scenes together but what differentiates this couple is the crackling emotion between them whenever they are together. I loved them.
The fact that Bennett's greatest enemy is actually evil and is also London's father adds an element of real danger that doesn't often exsist in this type of book.
Thalia from Warrior is still my favorite heroine in the Blades series so far, but London has her own strengths and is great match for Bennett. She loves him but isn’t clingy and is willing to be on her own if need be. Bennett….ahhh…..I love him. Scoundrel = auto love in my book but he is upfront about his intentions with the women he is involved with and once he realizes how he feels about London he doesn’t play games.
Scoundrel will be coming out October 1st. Go read Warrior so you’ll be ready for Scoundrel!
February 4, 2011
After reading Warrior I wasn't sure if Zoe Archer could keep up the great momentum she got going. I am happy to say she did. I loved Bennett & London as much as I did Thalia & Gabriel. Another great location, Greek Isles, and more great action, adventure, magic and romance.
Bennett & London's connection was both steamy and so sweet. After reading so many books where the rake/womanizing/scoundrel leading man has never felt love and is resistant to it it's nice to get a book about one who adores women so much. He readily admits he loves something about each and every woman he comes across. It was a refreshing change and really helped me engage with his character. The fact that his mother is a huge Jane Austen/Pride & Prejudice fan (hence his name) is just another perk. London also could have been a cliche, but instead was a delightfully intelligent, fully formed character. She grew so much through the book, but it felt natural.
The only complaint I have so far is that all the Heirs seem a bit alike. Lamb/Jonas from Warrior were near the same as Edgeworth/Fraser in Scoundrel. Still, that small thing doesn't detract from my near perfect enjoyment of this series.
Bennett & London's connection was both steamy and so sweet. After reading so many books where the rake/womanizing/scoundrel leading man has never felt love and is resistant to it it's nice to get a book about one who adores women so much. He readily admits he loves something about each and every woman he comes across. It was a refreshing change and really helped me engage with his character. The fact that his mother is a huge Jane Austen/Pride & Prejudice fan (hence his name) is just another perk. London also could have been a cliche, but instead was a delightfully intelligent, fully formed character. She grew so much through the book, but it felt natural.
The only complaint I have so far is that all the Heirs seem a bit alike. Lamb/Jonas from Warrior were near the same as Edgeworth/Fraser in Scoundrel. Still, that small thing doesn't detract from my near perfect enjoyment of this series.
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