Stolen Lust by Charmaine Pauls

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Charmaine Pauls knows dark romance, and Stolen Lust is no exception. There is a balance to the dubious consent concept that appeals to me. A love-hate relationship, or forceful union, an alpha male with a penchant for overpowering, when I want a dark romance, this is what I look for. The subject matter is not for everyone, although Stolen Lust is a bit tame in this department. But, like all her books, it creates an excellent tension with this type of theme.

A carjacking and kidnapping lead to immediate chemistry between Ian and Cas. Ian is immediately obsessed; Cas is intimidated but faces that, and the two of them are a wonderfully complex pairing. I was engrossed in their story, and the cliffhanger ensures I will be reading the next book in the series.

PURCHASE ON AMAZON

REVIEW

Charmaine Pauls knows dark romance, and Stolen Lust is no exception.  There is a balance to the dubious consent concept that appeals to me.  A love-hate relationship, or forceful union, an alpha male with a penchant for overpowering, when I want a dark romance, this is what I look for. The subject matter is not for everyone, although Stolen Lust is a bit tame in this department. But, like all her books, it creates an excellent tension with this type of theme.

A carjacking and kidnapping lead to immediate chemistry between Ian and Cas. Ian is immediately obsessed; Cas is intimidated but faces that, and the two of them are a wonderfully complex pairing.  I was engrossed in their story, and the cliffhanger ensures I will be reading the next book in the series.

Scot Under the Covers by Suzanne Enoch

ABOUT THE BOOK

The second in the seductive new Scottish historical romance Wild Wicked Highlanders series from New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Enoch!

In Scot Under the Covers, a resourceful English lady and a hot-blooded Highlander join forces to trick a scoundrel, and every rule will be broken!

Miranda Harris is known for her charm, wit, and ability to solve any problem she encounters. But when her brother lands neck-deep in gambling debt to a crafty villain and Miranda is subsequently blackmailed into marrying him, she must enlist the help of the devil himself to save the family honor—and herself.

“It’s time to fall in love with Suzanne Enoch.” — Lisa Kleypas

Devilishly handsome Highlander Aden MacTaggert knows next to nothing about the ways of the ton, but he most certainly knows his way around gaming halls and womens’ hearts. Still, Aden is not sure how he’ll manage to find a Sassenach bride in time to save his family’s inheritance. When his almost sister-in-law Miranda comes to him for assistance, he proposes a partnership: She will help him navigate London society and he’ll teach her everything about wagering…and winning back her freedom. The beautiful, clever lass intrigues Aden—but is she playing her own game, or are the sparks between them real? He is accustomed to risking his pocket. But betting on Miranda’s love is a game he can’t afford to lose. . .

PURCHASE ON AMAZON

REVIEW

Miranda Harris finds herself in a dire situation.  Her brother Michael, a recently reformed gambler, has a past debt that leads to blackmail. The terms state Miranda is to marry Captain Robert Vale or risk the reputation of her entire family. Against her better judgment, Miranda seeks help from Aden MacTaggert, who happens to be a gambler himself, looking for insight into the devious mind of her blackmailer.  

Miranda is an intelligent female lead.  She has excellent instincts and does not simply step back and hope for the man to save her.  I worried her opinion on Aden's gambling pastime would cloud her judgment.  She handles the situation well, using his actions to deduce his nature.  I admire her for that.

Aden is a savvy, sexy, and confident Scot. He is casual when faced with Miranda's ire. Aden does not waste time attempting to sway her mind. He merely uses his knowledge to force Miranda's tormentor into making a mistake.  I respected his stance on the subject.  He is what he is, and one can take it or leave it.

During their mystery to solve, Miranda warms to Aden. Aden works well as Miranda's counterpart. Their ensuing courtship is delightful. I quite enjoyed the journey in Scot Under the Covers by Suzanne Enoch.