Kelly reviews Mr. Ridley by Delilah Marvelle

TITLE: Mr. Ridley
SERIES #: The Whipping Society #1
CHARACTERS: Mr. Ridley & Miss Watkins
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
PUBLICATION DATE: February 26, 2017
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
LEATHER. CIGARS. ROPE. COCA. SEX.
Meet Mr. Ridley.
BOOK 1 of 3, all roped together by one man and one woman bent one twisted passion: making the other writhe.
LONDON, ENGLAND – 1830
Criminals fear the iron fist of justice he delivers. Scotland Yard will do anything to get their hands on his mind. Whilst women? They crawl in the hope of becoming his. But only one woman is about to hold his career and his body and his mind hostage.
Jemdanee (Kumar) Lillian Watkins is a botanical savant from India who ends up getting arrested for a crime she didn’t commit. Only one man believes her: Mr. Ridley. Drawn to him and the rope he knots in her presence, she quickly realizes this regimented dark hero hides nothing but his passion.
Themes include Dark humor, BDSM, mystery, and romance.
“I can be as stubborn as you. I will tap the window until it cracks and if you still refuse to open that window despite my beak bleeding…” She held up her bandaged hand. “Then I swear unto you, Ridley, I will make you bleed in turn and I will make you crawl. For you cannot make us both suffer for the bond we have found in each other.”
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PLEASE NOTE: Unlike most historical romances where the hero & heroine’s attraction and love for each other stops at a mere one book, this full length book is the beginning of many (Full length book episodes!) following the highly charged, erotic saga of a couple through the rise and fall and storms of their relationship. Every book is tied up in own way.
BOOK 1, Mr. Ridley (Available now!)
BOOK 2, The Devil is French (Pre-Order Now, Available 4/28/17)
BOOK 3, Reborn (Available 6/28/2017, with Pre-Order Available when second book hits)

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts What a wonderful start to a new series for Ms. Marvelle. I am already excited for the next two installments in this series.
Jemdanee is not your typical heroine. She is a lot younger then I had expected her to be. But boy howdy is she tough. She knows what she wants in life and is not afraid to stand up for it. Even if it gets her into a very awkward situation.
Mr. Ridley… Where to begin with him. He is everything you think of when you think of talk, dark and mysterious. A mystery that you want so badly to solve. I really liked him. Although I really wanted to punch him multiple times during the book.
But these two together!! Fireworks!!! There will also be tears. I definitely shed a few tears. But I have faith the Ms. Marvelle knows what she is doing by killing a bit of my soul in this story. 😉
Until next time Mr. Ridley…..

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Delilah Marvelle Productions in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

December 28, 2015December 28, 2015

Natasha’s review of Delilah Marvelle’s The Christmas Wager

TITLE: The Christmas Wager
SERIES #: A Happy Christmas #1
CHARACTERS: Miss Barrington
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
PUBLICATION DATE: December 1, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A mysterious key to an attic that cannot be found…
A ghost with good but overly ambitious intentions…
And a forgotten wager that is about to turn Miss Barrington’s life into a holiday mess.

Are you ready for the outrageously funny and Happy Christmas Series?
WARNING: THERE IS A LOT OF MAGIC AND ROMANCE IN THIS BOX.

London, England – Winter of 1860
When all the ladies of London realize that handsome and refined gentleman, the Duke of Ainsley, is formally looking for a wife, only weeks before Christmas, a mad dash to claim him begins. Miss Barrington knows her chances with the duke are incredibly good given what her close gypsy friend had once foretold, but a forgotten wager with her greatest nemesis, American millionaire, Mr. Redstone, is about to bring on complications and…chaos.

Will she claim the dashing and respectable duke once foretold by the stars? Or will she fall for Mr. Redstone and go against destiny? Only the days leading up to Christmas will tell!

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Natasha House
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 5
REVIEW: Oh my gosh, Delilah has such a great idea! 10 Christmas novels released every December for the next 10 years! I am jumping up and down in excitement! I loved this first installment in her new Christmas series. Felicity and Maxwell are so fun together from the first time they meet! We get an excellent amount of character building (as always with Ms. Marvelle) and we get soooo much drama! Felicity is super feisty, and Maxwell so lovable and sweet. I was stressed out for a lot of this book, and I loved every second of it. I felt so much sadness for both characters for different reasons, but when they were together I was so happy! I loved all supporting characters, and I loved the paranormal aspect of the story mixed with the historical romance. Really, what more could a reader ask for? Oh! I almost forgot the tears! I was choked up a lot of this book, and laughing out loud at other moments. In typical Delilah fashion, her story sucks you in and refuses to let you go until you finish. I cannot wait for next December for the next installment!

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Delilah Marvelle Productions in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

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December 9, 2015December 9, 2015

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kelly reviews The Christmas Wager by Delilah Marvelle

TITLE: The Christmas Wager
SERIES #: A Happy Christmas #1
CHARACTERS: Miss Barrington
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
PUBLICATION DATE: December 1, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

Are you ready for the outrageously funny and Happy Christmas Series?
WARNING: THERE IS A LOT OF MAGIC AND ROMANCE IN THIS BOX.

Will she claim the dashing and respectable duke once foretold by the stars? Or will she fall for Mr. Redstone and go against destiny? Only the days leading up to Christmas will tell!

REVIEW:
Okay how do I put this nicely….. Ms. Marvelle, thank you for writing this story I enjoyed every page. But darn it all I don’t know if I can wait another year for the next installment 🙂
The Christmas Wager was a great Christmas love story set in the mid-1800’s and told in only a Ms. Marvelle can tell it. Not only do we get an epic love story but we get a little history lesson with it.
I loved Felicity. She is the type of girl you want as a best friend. She is honest to a fault and one you have her loyalty you will have it for always. Maxwell…. Maxwell…. Maxwell. He is just the right mix of gentlemen and rake that all women want. It was a lot of fun watching these two circle each other.
I don’t want to give anything away, but know this if you pick up a copy of The Christmas Wager this Christmas you will be very happy.
Until next year, a whole 365 days away……

Favorite lines
“Do you always wander up to windows and accuse men of flirting with you for it? Because this would be a first for me.”

“In case you were wondering, I’m available, a full twenty and since I’m all about being honest, I should probably disclose I’ve been arrested fourteen times.”

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & Delilah Marvelle Productions, LLC in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

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August 6, 2015August 2, 2015

Natasha reviews Mistress of Pleasure by Delilah Marvelle

TITLE: Mistress of Pleasure
SERIES #: School of Gallantry #1
CHARACTERS: Maybelle & Rutherford
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
PUBLICATION DATE: July 3, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon|B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Granddaughter of a renowned courtesan, Maybelle Maitenon has no interest in her grandmother’s school in London where gentlemen receive instruction–in the art of seduction. Her only desire in life is to remain independent and free from men and their overbearing expectations. But when Maybelle lays eyes on the Duke of Rutherford, who is well-known for his gentlemanly ways, she can’t resist. Neither she or the duke are prepared for what their attraction is about to do not only to their sanity but their hearts.
WARNING: This book contains strong language and sexual content that may cause respectable people to swoon.

REVIEW:

Delilah has just re-released Mistress of Pleasure with tons of new content and a beautiful new cover that matches all those in this series. I loved this book the first time I read it, but the second go ‘round was even better. I guess it’s because I had a better grasp at the importance of this book and how everything connected back to this start of the series. The School of Gallantry is one of my favorite series and this book started it all. There are laugh-out-loud moments that I just had to put the book down to enjoy the moment, and truly endearing sweet, romantic moments. The characters come alive and suck you into their world; the plot is well researched and written beautifully. I love this author. I love this series; please give it a go if you haven’t already. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Ever.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Delilah Marvelle Productions in exchange for an honest review . This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

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April 10, 2015April 5, 2015

Release Day Blitz: The Duke of Andelot by Delilah Marvelle + giveaway

MEET DELILAH:

USA TODAY Bestselling Author Delilah Marvelle is the winner of the Reviewer’s Choice for Best Sensual Historical Romance of the Year and had Booklist name her historical romance ‘Forever and a Day’ one of the TOP 10 Romances of the year. When she isn’t writing, she’s digging through inappropriate research books that include anything in history having to do with courtesans, brothels, sexual contraptions that were never properly used and other fascinating forms of dirty history that never made it into college textbooks. You can visit her at her website atwww.DelilahMarvelle.com

Website: www.DelilahMarvelle.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Delilah-Marvelle/73234401876
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DelilahMarvelle
Delilah’s Newsletter: http://delilahmarvelle.wordpress.com/

Amazon | B&N | Books | Kobo | Google Play

For fans of Tom Jones and The Scarlet Pimpernel comes a twisted, sexy tale that takes the French Revolution to smoldering new heights.

Long before becoming the flamboyant courtesan known to men as Madame de Maitenon, Thérèse Angelique Bouchard, dreamed of becoming an actress capable of commanding not only the stage but all of Paris. Until she meets an extraordinary aristocratic gentleman who sweeps her into his arms and the danger of his life, while offering her the sort of wealth she never imagined. What starts off as a seductive alliance, ends in her giving him the one thing she cannot afford: her love.

After the murder of his older brothers, Gérard Antoine Tolbert, becomes the last heir to the powerful dukedom of Andelot, leaving him to fight for not only his life, but the allegiance he holds for the crown. During the final rise of the French Revolution that whispers of the violent change about to shake the entire country, Gérard.
meets an aspiring actress who introduces him into wanting more out of himself and life. In trying to protect her from their overly passionate alliance and those that want him dead, he must decide what matters most: his life or his heart.

AUTHOR NOTE: This sweeping saga will follow Madame de Maitenon and the Duc of Andelot from their youth in 1792, France, to what they ultimately become when the School of Gallantry series first starts in England, 1830.

EXCERPT 1

His eyes became flat and unreadable. “Might I ask why you are walking alone in this forest?” His French was upper crust, well-educated and immaculate. “The closest village outside of Paris is a few hours away. Either you are stupid or you seem to think I am.”

Her brows went up. She knew these well-to-do fils de basts were known for being overly righteous, but she didn’t expect them to live up to their reputation. “Be careful with those insults, monsieur. Back in my village, I can skin a pig in less than thirty minutes. My father is a butcher, and I will warn you, he taught me everything I know. So refrain from annoying me. I have a paring knife.”

A tremor touched his lips as if he were fighting an amusement he didn’t wish to feel. “I have been duly warned.” He skimmed her appearance, including her bare feet and hesitated, lingering on the exposed skin above her breasts her knitted scarf didn’t cover. His jaw tightened. “The tops of your breasts are on full display. Is that intentional?”

Her eyes widened, realizing he had a direct view down her sizable cleavage given he was up on a horse. “Of course not. How dare you look.” Thérèse rearranged her fichu over her décolletage and patted it into place, tucking it into her bodice. “It slipped,” she tossed back. “The wind is a bit strong. Or did you not notice given how fast you were going?”

He puffed out a breath. Leaning back in the leather saddle enough to showcase his broad chest, he adjusted the reins in his large gloved hands. “Seeing you have no shoes, mademoiselle, and that the weather is about to turn dire, I suggest you make haste and go home.”

Thérèse snorted. “Home is the last place I wish to be.” Rather pleased with herself for seizing her own independence, she cradled the basket against her corseted waist, knowing a little advertisement was in order. “My cousin is graciously giving me an opportunity to be part of an upcoming performance he thinks will change all of Paris. I am to be his leading actress in a controversial script he wrote called…The Delights of Life. I will be performing on stage this Friday at Spetacle des Variétés Amusantes. Would you like to hear a few lines and maybe consider coming to a performance? Tickets will be selling for three sols a piece. Quite the bargain.”

His gaze snapped to hers.

Without giving him a chance to decline, she breathlessly announced to her audience of one, “Is it possible for a mere commoner, like myself, to attain a measure of good cheer in a world dominated by men, politics, wealth, murder, intrigue and greed? Most certainly! Under the new Republic, one must simply know how to make these aristocrats in power crawl.” She slapped her derriere and gripped it. “And crawl you shall, o lords of this ravaged land. For I am your new harlot better known as the queen!”

He stared.

She grinned. “You ought to see my rendition of Calderón. I make death look real.” She curtsied and regally held out an open palm with the roll of her bare hand. “Might you offer an aspiring actress a few sols for her journey into stardom? It would be greatly appreciated.”

He lowered his chin. “I only give money to those in need.”

The cheeky bastard. “I am in need. I left the house without a single sol.”

“And how is that my problem?”

She dropped her hand to her side in exasperation. “I was hoping for a sliver of generosity. What else will you have me do? I sing. I dance. I also do a variety of impersonations. The only thing I will not do is bare my breasts or offer up sexual favors. However, if you insist, you may kiss my hand. But not with an open mouth or your tongue. I had a man once lick my hand and I swear I can still feel it.”

An inexplicable look of withdrawal came over his face. “You and I are clearly at an impasse.”

She pointed. “You really ought to work on that comedy routine. You are far too serious in nature.”

He leaned back against his saddle, still staring her down. “What the hell is this? A forest and a show? Are you lost?”

She puffed out a breath. “I dare not say it, but I could be. I have been walking for over two days now following signs that appear to be misplaced. I am trying to get to Paris.” She held up her basket and brightly offered, “I have apples. Might I barter a few in exchange for directions? Or maybe even a ride?” Still smiling, she enthusiastically patted the sleek, soft neck of his horse with one hand, while still holding the basket up. “He is so magnificent. I can barely breathe in his presence.”

He edged his hand away from where she had been patting the horse. “Are you referring to me or the horse?”

Other Books in Series:

Mistress of Pleasure http://www.delilahmarvelle.com/#!mistress_of_pleasure/c18p

Lord of Pleasure http://www.delilahmarvelle.com/#!lord_of_pleasure/clt

Lady of Pleasure http://www.delilahmarvelle.com/#!lady-of-pleasure/c1zmz

Night of Pleasure http://www.delilahmarvelle.com/#!night-of-pleasure/c1676

Master of Pleasure http://www.delilahmarvelle.com/#!master-of-pleasure/c2ka

Romancing Lady Stone (novella) http://www.delilahmarvelle.com/#!romancing-lady-stone/cfh7

*****

Giveaway:

Delilah is giving away the following:

—5 $10 Amazon GC

—2 $25 Amazon GC

—GRAND PRIZE $100 Amazon GC

a Rafflecopter giveaway

GOODREADS GIVEAWAY:

Delilah is also giving away 25 copies of THE DUKE OF ANDELOT on Goodreads. Open to US, CA, AU and GB. Ends May 1st.

https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/131624-the-duke-of-andelot

April 10, 2015April 9, 2015

Natasha reviews The Duke of Andelot by Delilah Marvelle

TITLE: The Duke of Andelot
SERIES #: The School of Gallantry #7
CHARACTERS: Thérèse Angelique Bouchard & Gérard Antoine Tolbert
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
PUBLICATION DATE: April 10, 2015
ORDER LINKS:Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
For fans of Tom Jones and The Scarlet Pimpernel comes a twisted, sexy tale that takes the French Revolution to smoldering new heights.

After the murder of his older brothers, Gérard Antoine Tolbert, becomes the last heir to the powerful dukedom of Andelot, leaving him to fight for not only his life, but the allegiance he holds for the crown. During the final rise of the French Revolution that whispers of the violent change about to shake the entire country, Gérard meets an aspiring actress who entices him into wanting more out of not only himself but life. In trying to protect her from their overly passionate alliance and those that want him dead, he must decide what matters most: his life or his heart.

WARNING: This book contains strong language and sexual content which may cause respectable people to swoon.

REVIEW: Finishing this book was wonderful, yet sad. I was ecstatic when Delilah announced she was continuing with this series and have enthusiastically awaited each new release. The series has been a phenomenal journey, spanning so many amazing characters and stories. It is with extreme excitement that I began this story, knowing it centered on the sun of this wonderful universe Delilah created – Madame Maitenon! Her story is full of comedy, tragedy and plain ‘ol scandal! I have loved Therese ever since we were first introduced to her in Mistress of Pleasure. She is such a daring, strong character that you can’t help but admire her courage and strength. This story begins over thirty years prior to where the entire series ended up. We get to see Therese as a young girl, getting into all kinds of craziness through her association with a dashing Duke – Gerard Tolbert. Slight spoiler alert – Therese and Gerard meet in the forest. I swear I could have lived this entire story in that forest. Seeing these two characters interact literally exploded the pages of my book. I was so deeply invested in their story I couldn’t put it down. They are extremely funny together, sinfully explicit and wonderfully flawed. So much heartache between these two – so much love. It is a gripping tale that completes the stories of two of our favorite characters in this series. I am very sad that this is the end of The School of Gallantry, but thank goodness for the amazing tales.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of Delilah Marvelle Productions, LLC in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

December 17, 2014November 29, 2014

Kelly & Natasha review Masters Of Pleasure by Delilah Marvelle

TITLE: Masters of Pleasure
SERIES #: School of Gallantry #5
CHARACTERS: Malcolm Thayer & Leona Webster
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
PUBLICATION DATE: November 28, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The greatest divide between a man and a woman is not the one society sets before them but the one they set before themselves…

After Miss Leona Olivia Webster had allowed herself to fall in love with a dashing childhood friend who had left her scorned and pregnant, she is done chasing her happily-ever-after. Shunned by society, she dedicates herself to raising her young son and putting money in their pockets. She doesn’t expect to be drawn to her latest master, a brooding man of hulking presence who carves random messages into walls with his Persian blade as a means of starting a flirtation.

Malcolm Gregory Thayer, the earl of Brayton, may have dedicated himself to a life of religious virtue after leaving the monastery due to dark tendencies, but after meeting Leona, he begins to yearn for the life that had never been his. When he meets a retired French courtesan who invites him to embrace what he has long feared, he seizes the opportunity to become the man he always wanted to be. His new mission is clear. He intends to finally serve the one thing he never had: his heart.

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts Both Malcolm & Leona are in very different places in their life. Leona finds herself fighting for the life she has built for herself and her son. But when the debt collector comes calling Leona finds herself in much more of a pickle with the a group of men. Thankfully her knight in shiny armor happens to be walking down the street. Malcolm is only in town for a short time. But stepping in to help the lovely Leona is about to turn his world upside down.

I have to tell you this is my first School of Gallantry novel by Ms. Marvelle. I have read all of Ms. Marvelle’s other books. I do have the first 4 books in the School of Gallantry series and after reading Master of Pleasure I am looking forward reading them. If you are a Delilah Marvelle fan you will love this book. If you are new, never fear you can read this book as a stand alone easily.

NATASHA’S REVIEW:
5 Hearts Full disclosure – I absolutely love everything Delilah writes and think she is amazingly great at historical romance. This is the fifth story in her incredibly addictive, funny, seductive School of Gallantry series. In this installment we get the story of the delectably scarred and mysterious Lord Brayton and how his life is forever changed when he comes to the rescue of Miss Leona Webster and her son Jacob.

Leona is a single mother who has struggled through heartbreak and misery, all while trying to make a better life for her and her son. I immediately loved Leona when we first met her, and I was literally giddy during her and Brayton’s first exchanges. I was so intrigued and excited by them and their possible future. I loved how open and honest these two were with each other from the start. I was rooting from them from the beginning – even when Brayton was being so incredibly stubborn.

Since we’ve seen many of the classroom scenes from the School of Gallantry during this series, we don’t see a lot of them recreated in this story. We do however get much more of Prince Nasser from Persia – who I adore! I was so excited to see more about him and how he and Brayton became associated. I wouldn’t complain if he got his own novella – just saying! Anywho, this story really focuses on Brayton and Leona together more than we see them interacting with others in this world which I really appreciated. It gave them the time they needed to truly get to know each other and was so refreshing to see. All in all I loved this story so much and will always anxiously await anything Delilah chooses to write! If you haven’t read her work, please go out NOW and start reading some truly great historical romance from a gifted author.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley & Delilah Marvelle Productions in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

September 8, 2014September 8, 2014

Writer’s Tips & Tricks Day 6 part b: Bring Sexy into your Writing by Delilah Marvelle

Bringing Sexy into your Writing by Delilah Marvelle

For those of you that don’t know me (and I won’t be so bold to say you all do), I write incredibly sexy historical romances. So sexy some have actually categorized me as writing erotica. I absolutely love erotica, but seeing as I know what it is, I also know I don’t write it. Although there is sex and graphic sex, I still see myself as writing romance. Because in the end, if you were to pull out all the sex scenes in my book, you’d still have a love story, not a sexy story. And in my opinion, sex is only as good as its love story.Seeing I write edgier and oftentimes humorous historical romances with sex, I find keeping up with what my readers want almost frightening. Because you can only keep upping yourself so much. The very idea makes me go flaccid (ehm..,). I swear, there are many, many times I sit in front of my computer and tell myself it’s too freakin’ HARD to keep writing sex that feels new.

So I started thinking of ways to keep this flame within me burning. Because if I’m not feeling it, my characters aren’t feeling it. And if my characters aren’t feeling it, my readers won’t want to feel it AT ALL…So for those of you writing sexy books, allow me to share six tips that keep me going (actually, I have more, but this post has to end sometime). And if you happen to only read sexy books, not write them, then this list will simply make you appreciate how much effort we writers put into being creative.

1.)I try being a sensualist. That is, I focus on pampering myself. Lighting candles, listening to music, watching romantic movies, and anything that will make me feel all girlie, girlie. It’s amazing how much it really works.
2.)I make out and get hot and heavy with my husband before I write a sex scene. Seriously. I don’t do it all the time, because frankly, it pisses him off when I make out with him, things get heavy and then I’m like, “Thanks! Now I have to write! Seeya!” But believe me, it really works when he does let me get away with it.
3.)I read very hot books that inspire me to write the scenes I know that will make my writing pop. Like Lisa Valdez’s Passion. Holy cow. I’m fanning myself just thinking about that book.
4.)I indulge in chocolate and whatever sinful foods I can get my hands on to heightens my senses and makes me happy. When your soul is happy, your sex scenes are too!
5.) Remember that sex is an emotional journey, not just a physical one. People focus on sex being physical, and it is, but reminding ourselves that sex is actually an emotional journey allows that depth to shine through.

6.) I create sex arcs for my characters in the same way I create characters arcs. Meaning, where are the characters sexually when they begin the book and where are they by the end of it? Are they virgins? How will this affect their view on sex and why? How will they react to sex and why? By asking yourself these questions and understanding what your character is like before, during and after sex will give insight to their character in a way only you, as the writer, can give. This allows the sex to have more meaning and become more than just sex. It becomes a part of who the character is.

Bottom line when it comes to writing sex scenes is that if it’s not a chore but a form of depth and character development. The moment you dread writing those sex scenes…don’t. It’s the best part of understanding your characters and letting your readers understand your characters. The only way it’s going to BE the best part, is if you put the time and effort to make it such. So go forth and make love to your characters. They earned it 🙂

Delilah Marvelle

USA TODAY Bestselling Author of Night of Pleasure

*****
Le’t take look at Delilah’s upcoming release

Master of Pleasure

School of Gallantry, #5

The greatest divide between a man and a woman is not the one society sets before them but the one they set before themselves…

When Malcolm Gregory Thayer comes under the protection of the Persian crown that saves him from a monastery that tortures the sins out of young men sent by their families, he dedicates himself to becoming the ultimate weapon and helping others in their greatest hour of need. When he is asked to return to England to take his rightful place as the Earl of Brayton, he refuses to face the family he knows he had wronged with his wicked ways. The Persion crown, however, has other plans. It sends Malcolm back into London on a mission he considers beneath him. Facing his family becomes the least of his problems when a dark-eyed beauty makes him realize his days of transgression are far from over.After the ever popular Miss Leona Olivia Webster had allowed
herself to be seduced by a dashing aristocratic rake who had left her scorned and pregnant, she is done chasing her happily-ever-after. Shunned by her own family and society, she dedicates herself to raising her young son and putting money in their pockets by becoming a servant to whoever will hire her. She doesn’t expect her latest master, a brooding man of hulking presence, to carve random messages into walls with his Persian blade as a means of starting a flirtation.Malcolm may have dedicated himself to a self-imposed life of virtue, due to a secret only his dead father and the Persian Prince know,
but after meeting Leona, he begins to yearn for the life he had always shied away from. Having never interacted with women during or after his days in the monastery, he is baffled as to how he is to woo Leona. When he receives an unexpected invitation to attend a special school that educates men in the topic of love and seduction, he seizes the opportunity in the hopes that Leona is up to his advances. His final mission is clear. He intends to finally serve the one thing he never had: his heart.

A little about Delilah:

I spent my youth studying various languages, reading voraciously, and playing the pianoforte. I confess that here ends the extent of my gentle breeding. I was a naughty child who was forever torturing her parents with countless adventures that they did not deem respectable. Confined to my room on many occasions due to these misadventures, I soon discovered the quill and its amazing power. I scribed endless stories that almost invariably surrounded the topic of love, for I felt an inane need to be rescued from a family that did not understand my lust for life. In my mind, King Arthur became my true love and I waited for the day when he would come riding upon his steed and invite me to sit at his round table, not as his queen, but as his knight. To my distress, King Arthur was never to be found anywhere except for in the tip of my quill. And so I led an imaginary life for many, many years. When I finally came of age, my family was further horrified to discover that I had fallen in love with an American. An American King Arthur who became my knight, my husband, my all. I have been blessed beyond reason and am grateful for each day I have with him. What is equally amazing is that I now have the opportunity to share my passion for stories with the public. The reason why I write romance is because it allows me to touch upon the subject of love on a much deeper, more intimate level. Many of the stories I write, many of the stories I will continue to write, will always evolve around love. And yes, gentle readers, it will also evolve around sex as I have no intention of becoming my parents and restraining my characters from what it is they truly desire to do. I challenge you, my readers, to let loose of those corsets that have been strung too tightly due to convention and enjoy 1830 to its fullest.”

Make sure to check out all of the other stops on this month long tour HERE and enter the grand prize giveaway.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

July 31, 2014July 30, 2014

Spotlight feature of Tempted by His Touch box set

A boxed set with ten sizzling historical romances from ten bestselling historical romance authors. Fall in love with fabulous tales of intrigue, suspense, wit, and passion featuring dukes, rogues, alpha heroes…and the women who can’t resist them. JUST 99 CENTS from July 27 – Sept. 21—then it disappears FOREVER!

Scoundrel Ever After by Darcy Burke – Once upon a time there was a very bad boy who met a very nice girl….

Lady of Pleasure by Delilah Marvelle – Educating a man in the art of love takes time. Lots of it.

Sonata for a Scoundrel by Anthea Lawson – Passion and secrets simmer against the glittering backdrop of 19th century musical celebrity.

To Dare the Duke of Dangerfield by Bronwen Evans – What’s a lady to do when a notorious rake wins her estate in a game of cards?

Undone by Lila DiPasqua – One steamy, emotionally charged retelling of Rapunzel…Rescuing this beauty from the ‘tower’ is only the beginning…

The Problem with Seduction by Emma Locke – Elizabeth Spencer needs a man. She doesn’t need to like him—because while she needs a man, she doesn’t particularly want one.

A Dangerous Invitation by Erica Monroe – Daniel O’Reilly returns to win back Kate Morgan’s heart and prove he’s innocent of murder.

Once Upon a Duke by Eva Devon – A widow looking to get seduced. A duke more than willing to oblige.

Great & Unfortunate Desires by Gina Danna – A marquis with a guilty past takes a bride in a world where love is fatal.

Dark Surrender By Erica Ridley – Trapped in darkness…. Their passion burns bright!

How about a little peek into ONCE UPON A DUKE

Everything is going swimmingly for Kathryn Darrell. She’s got an annuity of a hundred thousand a year, her lecherous-heart breaking husband has had the good graces to pop off, and best of all, she has her freedom—something she has every intention of reveling in to the fullest. And who better to revel with than Ryder Blake, the infamous Duke of Darkwell?

Excerpt from Eva Devon’s ONCE UPON A DUKE (Used with permission © Eva Devon 2014)

If she could only get him alone, perhaps they could truly talk again and more. It was so strange. There were many men here tonight, but only the duke’s presence awakened her excitement.

She glanced towards the hallway. “Your touch is quite provocative,” she said, in a low tone. “Particularly your mouth,” she added, amazed at her own wanton words.

Her comment met with stony silence, and she took a small step forward, determined not to let him send her off again. “This time, I intend to return the favor.”

About Darcy Burke:

A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her devoted husband, their two great kids, and two Bengal cats. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. She’s also a fair-weather runner, and her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.

Find out more about Darcy and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

About Bronwen Evans:

USA Today Bestselling Author Bronwen Evans grew up loving books. She writes both historical and contemporary sexy romances for the modern woman who likes intelligent, spirited heroines, and compassionate alpha heroes.

Her debut Regency romance, Invitation to Ruin won the RomCon Readers’ Crown Best Historical 2012, and was an RT Reviewers’ Choice Nominee Best First Historical 2011. Her first self-published novella, To Dare the Duke of Dangerfield, was a FINALIST in the Kindle Book Review Indie Romance Book of the Year 201,2 and a finalist in the RomCon Readers’ Crown Best Historical 2013. Her first contemporary released December 2012, The Reluctant Wife, won the RomCon Readers’ Crown Best Category 2013.

Find out more about Bronwen and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads| Newsletter: sign up at the top of Bronwen’s website

About Lila DiPasqua:

Lila DiPasqua is a multi-published, national bestselling author of historical romance with heat. Her novels are published by Penguin/Berkley, as well as having self-published works.

She is best known for her critically acclaimed Fiery Tales series. Her books have been featured on Doubleday and Rhapsody Book Clubs.

She lives with her husband and three children in Canada and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after.

Find out more about Lila and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter: sign up on the sidebar of Lila’s website

About Delilah Marvelle:

Delilah Marvelle is the winner of the Reviewer’s Choice for Best Sensual Historical Romance of the Year and had Booklist name her historical romance ‘Forever and a Day’ one of the TOP 10 Romances of the year. When she isn’t writing, she’s digging through inappropriate research books that include anything in history having to do with courtesans, brothels, sexual contraptions that were never properly used and other fascinating forms of dirty history that didn’t make it into college textbooks. She includes all of her research in her books to ensure countless hours of entertainment and continues to take pride in knowing more about dirty history than most people feel comfortable with.

Find out more about Delilah and her books here: Website |Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

About Erica Ridley:

Erica Ridley learned to read when she was three, which was about the same time she decided to be a writer when she grew up.

She is the author of three Gothic romances, Too Wicked to Kiss, Too Sinful to Deny and Dark Surrender, the vampire romance “Never Been Bitten” in the paranormal romance anthology Born To Bite, contemporary paranormal romances Charmed and Midwinter Magic, and the holiday fantasy romance Let It Snow.

When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found riding camels in Africa, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.

Find out more about Erica and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

About Emma Locke:

Emma Locke is a writer and engineer living in the Pacific Northwest, where she loves hiking with her dog, hot yoga and riding out the annual 330 days of rain. Hiking and yoga give her time to plot, the lack of sun makes for perfect writing weather, and as for her day job, the dichotomy seems to work: her analytic side ensures her passionate, satisfying love stories don’t mulch under her bed, and her author side forces her to keep writing more.

Find out more about Emma and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter: sign up at the bottom of Emma’s website

About Gina Danna:

Gina has spent the better part of her life reading. History has been her love and she spent numerous hours devouring historical romance stories, dreaming of writing one of her own. Years later, after receiving undergraduate and graduate degrees in History, writing academic research papers and writing for museum programs and events, she finally found the time to write her own stories of historical romantic fiction.

Now, under the supervision of her three dogs and three cats, she writes amid a library of research books, with her only true break away is to spend time with her other life long dream – her Arabian horse – with him, her muse can play.

Find out more about Gina and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

About Erica Monroe:

Erica Monroe is a bestselling author of emotional, suspenseful romance. Though she has a Bachelor’s degree in writing, she’s been a secretary, a barista, and a retail assistant. Now Erica spends her days crafting lovable rogues and feisty heroines for her historical and new adult series. She is a member of the Romance Writers of America, Heart of Carolina, and the Beau Monde Regency Romance chapter. When not writing, she is a chronic TV watcher, sci-fi junkie, lover of pit bulls, and shoe fashionista. She lives in the suburbs of North Carolina with her husband, two dogs, and a cat.

Find out more about Erica and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter: sign up on Erica’s website sidebar

About Eva Devon:

Author of sexy and laugh out loud funny Regencies, I’m also Maire Claremont, creator of dark and angsty Victorians!

Find out more about Eva and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

About Anthea Lawson:

Anthea Lawson, called “a new star of Historical Romance” by Booklist, has won readers with her combination of spicy love scenes and elegant prose. Her first novel, PASSIONATE, was a Best First Book finalist in the prestigious Romance Writers of America RITA awards.

Anthea also writes award-winning YA Urban Fantasy under the pen name Anthea Sharp.

Find out more about Anthea and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodread | Newsletter

Follow the whole tour HERE

*****

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

Grand prize: iPad Mini (16GB) with surprise bonus print books [Open to US/CA]

a Rafflecopter giveaway

April 26, 2014April 17, 2014

Delilah Marvelle’s The School of Gallantry Series

Mistress of Pleasure

School of Gallantry #1

REAL PLEASURE CAN’T BE TAKEN.

Granddaughter of a renowned courtesan, Maybelle de Maitenon has no interest in her grandmother’s school in London where gentlemen receive instruction—in the art of seduction. Her only desire in life is to remain independent, free from men and the shackles of marriage. But when Maybelle lays eyes on Edmund Worthington, the Duke of Rutherford, at a soir e, and hears of his scandalous reputation, she decides he’s the perfect person for her to have a tryst with no strings attached.

IT MUST BE GIVEN.

Unbridled passion has again muddied Edmund Worthington’s family name. After his very public dalliance with the strikingly beautiful and sensual Maybelle, his mother insists he marry her. But much to the Duke’s surprise, Maybelle scoffs at his proposal. Never has he encountered such a brazen—and maddeningly irresistible—woman. But when Maybelle’s grandmother falls ill, forcing Maybelle to take over the operation of her school, Edmund devises a plan to make her his. He enrolls in the school, where no one other than Maybelle must give him expert lessons in carnal pleasure.

*****

Lord of Pleasure

School of Gallantry #2

DESPERATE TIMES…

It’s been months since Lady Charlotte Chartwell’s philandering husband met his untimely end at the hands of an angry mistress. But as miserable as he made Charlotte in life, his death proves to be an even harsher blow. For not a farthing of his fortune or estate have passed on to her, and as a ruined widow, she is destitute, penniless and utterly without hope.

LEAD TO DESPERATE PLEASURES…

Then, as Charlotte is considering the worst, a man steps into her carriage. His intentions are quite indecent at first, but the more he learns about her, the more an unfamiliar—and undesirable—emotion creeps over him. Could it be compassion? Never! For this is Alexander Baxendale, third Earl of Hawksford. He is known throughout the ton as the Lord of Pleasure, dedicated to passion, ruthless in his pursuit of sensual gratification. Yet never in all his exploits has he met a woman who could intrigue him as Charlotte does. Can this mysterious beauty make him hang up his title and see to her pleasure alone?

*****

Lady of Pleasure

School of Gallantry #3

Educating one’s self in the art of love takes time…

Lady Caroline Arabella Starling has been in love with her older brother’s best friend, Caldwell, since she was thirteen. Unfortunately, too many things keep getting in the way of proving her love. Her four younger sisters, her mother, her brother, all of society and the man she loves himself. But where there is a will, there is a way, and Caroline is about to redefine not only respectability but true love.

Ronan Henry Dearborn, the fourth Marquess of Caldwell, lives to see himself through Caroline’s eyes but knows he is leading a life unworthy of her or her dreams. He will do anything to keep her from learning the truth about himself and his past, including keeping her at a distance. But when he and Caroline get tangled in a situation neither of them can get out of, the only way to create a happily-ever-after between them is to take up the advice of a French courtesan who re-educates them both in the art of love.

*****

Romancing Lady Stone

School of Gallantry #3.5

He believes in destiny. She just wants to survive it…

At forty, Lady Cecilia Evangeline Stone thinks she has everything a woman could ever want. A title, a fortune, and four children who make her proud. After a marriage of convenience that was anything but convenient, she has no desire to complicate her life by including a man in it again. When her eldest son announces his engagement to a Russian actress in Saint Petersburg, Cecilia sets out to do what any good mother would do: stop the wedding. Unfortunately, destiny has other plans.

Konstantin Alexie Levin never considered himself to be a villain. In fact, he considers himself to be a Russian gentleman. Having grown up in a refined and well-educated family that embraced criminal life to avoid debtor’s prison, the only thing preventing him from knowing happiness is the rest of the world. Everything changes, however, when Konstantin is given a chance to start life anew and travel to London to collect an unexpected reward for saving a man’s life. To his surprise, he is about to become a hero at midnight to a beautiful aristocrat who desperately needs his help. The problem is…he wants to do more than save Lady Stone. He wants to make the woman his, all his.

WARNING: This book is Rated Double S (Sweaty & Sinful) and contains strong language and sexual content which may cause respectable people to swoon

*****

Night of Pleasure

School of Gallantry #4

An arranged marriage is daunting, but not as daunting as seducing a spouse whose passions you do not understand…

Derek Charles Holbrook, Viscount Banfield, knew his fate since he was seventeen when his father announced his union to the beautiful but mysterious American girl by the name of Miss Grey. To protect the troubled estate, Derek submits to his father’s wishes, not realizing he’s about to entangle himself in a hell of a lot more than marriage.

Miss Clementine Henrietta Grey may be worth millions, but not a single coin has ever bought her a smidge of happiness. When she marries the charasmatic and dashing Viscount Banfield, whose only strife in life appears to be the uneven seams in his coat, she finds that siring the heir he wants requires far more than her heart is prepared to give.

Unable to seduce his overly-serious and reluctant wife, Derek realizes his dreams of creating a loving family has turned into a nightmare. But with the unexpected assistance of a retired courtesan and her outrageous school, Derek and Clementine discover that passion is a language spoken not just from the body, but from the mind, heart and soul.

WARNING: This book is Rated Double S (Sweaty & Sinful) and contains strong language and sexual content which may cause respectable people to swoon.

This quirky, sexy and scandalous Regency/Victorian Historical Romance is part of a series.
THE SCHOOL OF GALLANTRY SERIES:
Book 1, Mistress of Pleasure
Book 2, Lord of Pleasure
Book 3, Lady of Pleasure
Book 3.5, Romancing Lady Stone
Book 4, Night of Pleasure
Book 5, Master of Pleasure

March 25, 2014March 25, 2014

Natasha reviews Night Of Pleasure by Delilah Marvelle

TITLE: Night of Pleasure
SERIES #: The School of Gallantry #4
CHARACTERS: Clementine Grey & Derek Holbrook
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
PUBLICATION DATE: March 28, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
An arranged marriage is daunting, but not as daunting as seducing a spouse whose passions you do not understand…

Derek Charles Holbrook, Viscount Banfield, knew his fate since he was seventeen when his father announced his union to the
beautiful but mysterious American girl by the name of Miss Grey.
To protect the troubled estate, Derek submits to his father’s wishes, not realizing he’s about to entangle himself in a hell of a lot more than marriage.

REVIEW:
I just love this series! I thought I knew the characters well since I’ve encountered them in previous books, but I was so wrong. Focusing on Derek and Clementine rather than them being mere mentions made me see them in a whole new light and I loved it! Poor Derek, he expected so much from his marriage to Clementine, and she just wasn’t having any of it. She is extremely strong-minded and doesn’t submit to anyone’s authority over her own. She initially was a very difficult character for me to like, which is not the norm with Delilah’s novels – I instantly fall in love with everyone. However, as we got to know Clementine better I feel like I began to understand her at the same time Derek did, and I realized how wrong I’d been about her. She is a truly unique and complicated individual. By the time I got to the end of the book, I was astonished at how beautifully Clementine was written and admired Delilah for her bravery in writing a character as different as Clementine. It was a new and great experience for me and really made this book even more amazing. I absolutely loved the interactions between the main characters as well as all the side characters – I’m really hoping we’ll get to see more of them in future books. This is another great story to add to an already fabulous series. Delilah always amazes, and this book was no different. Read it now!

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Delilah Marvelle in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

January 3, 2013January 2, 2013

The Rumor Series Tour

Forever Mine

Prequel

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Love can open your eyes…

Lady Augustine Jane Ascott longs for a man who will do more than offer on her hand in marriage. She wants a husband she can trust, someone who will shield her from the darkness of the world. Her heart was broken when her younger brother was kidnapped years earlier, and she still carries the pain of his loss.

When the handsome Duke of Wentworth makes his feelings for her known, Augustine’s past demons warn her away. Besides, every woman in London knows he’s devoted to the memory of his late wife. But is it possible he cares for her after all — and that their love can bring them the peace they both crave?

Forever and A Day

Book 1

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Some memories really are unforgettable…

Roderick Gideon Tremayne, the recently appointed Duke of Wentworth, never expected to find himself in New York City, tracking down a mysterious map important to his late mother. And he certainly never expected to be injured, only to wake up with no memory of who he is. But when he sees the fiery-haired beauty who’s taken it upon herself to rescue him, suddenly his memory is the last thing on his mind.

Georgia Milton, the young head of New York’s notorious Forty Thieves, feels responsible for the man who was trying to save her reticule from a thief. But she’s not prepared for the fierce passion he ignites within her. When his memory begins to return, her whole world is threatened, and Roderick must choose between the life he forgot and the life he never knew existed…

Forever A Lady

Book 2

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Two different classes, One common desire…

Bernadette Marie Burton may be the richest widow in England, but like her dreams of finding true passion, her reputation is deteriorating. Cruel gossip, loneliness and hoards of opportunistic suitors have her believing Society couldn’t be more vile….or dangerous. So when an attacker threatens her life, she finds safety in the most unseemly of places: the arms of a mysterious, Irish-American gang leader.

His fortune stolen, young Matthew Joseph Milton is done playing the respectable gentleman. In the slums of New York, only ruffians thrive. But from the moment he arrives in London and encounters the volumptious Lady Bernadette, he can’t help but wonder about the finer pleasures he’s missing. Or just how much he’s willing to risk — not only to bed her, but to prove his worth…

Forever A Lord

Book 3

He’s a fighter, not a lover.

But that’s about to change…

Lady Imogene Norwood lived a sheltered life of quiet respectability and routine…until she debuts at her first Season. There she meets the wild and broken Lord Atwood among London’s elite. And the very shy English rose suddenly realizes that a little chaos might just be what her heart desires.

Lord Nathaniel James Atwood doesn’t believe true love exists. Since scandal tore him away from his family at an early age, he has spent his life fighting for what he wants. That attitude made him a rising star in bare-knuckle boxing, and now leads him back to London to reclaim the life that was stolen from him. But upon meeting the innocent Imogene, his beliefs are trounced…as guarding his heart against her proves to be the fight of his life.

A little about Delilah:

Delilah Marvelle spent her youth studying various languages, reading voraciously and playing the pianoforte. She confesses that here ends the extent of her gentle breeding. She was a naughty child who was forever torturing her parents with countless adventures that they did not deem respectable. Confined to her room on many occasions due to these misadventures, she discovered the quill and its amazing power. Soon, to the dismay of her parents, she rather enjoyed being confined to her room and finished writing her first historical romance (which was a heart-stopping 800 pages long…) at the age of fourteen. She is a two time Golden Heart finalist and the winner of The Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Sensual HIstorical Romance of the Year. You can visit her at her website at www.DelilahMarvelle.com or her blog, which explores the naughtier side of history, at www.DelilahMarvelle.blogspot.com.

You can also find Delilah on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads

FOREVER A LORD Blog Tour Schedule

01/02 – Book Lovin’ Mamas

01/03 – Books-n-Kisses

01/04 – Reading Between the Wines

01/05 – Ramblings From This Chick

01/07 – Cocktails and Books

01/08 – Bookworm to Bookworm

01/09 – United by Books

01/10 – The Reading Cafe

01/11 – All Things Books

01/12 – Romancing Rakes