Sweet Enemy (Veiled Seduction, #1)

Feb 08, 2012 Jill rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance-european, 2012-debuts

Liliana Claremont is a twenty-four year-old spinster and scientist. Her parents both dead, Liliana stumbles upon evidence that her father's death after an attack by robbers, may not have been random afterall, but a planned murder. She is intent on finding the murderers and seeing them pay. With clues in-hand in the form of coded letters from the late Earl Of Stratford, she agrees to attend a house party with her Aunt and cousin at Somerton Park, ancestral home of Geoffrey Wentworth, (present) Ea...more
Liliana Claremont is a twenty-four year-old spinster and scientist. Her parents both dead, Liliana stumbles upon evidence that her father's death after an attack by robbers, may not have been random afterall, but a planned murder. She is intent on finding the murderers and seeing them pay. With clues in-hand in the form of coded letters from the late Earl Of Stratford, she agrees to attend a house party with her Aunt and cousin at Somerton Park, ancestral home of Geoffrey Wentworth, (present) Earl of Stratford. If Liliana is correct, the clues necessary to solve her father's murder will be found at Somerton Park.

Geoffrey Wentworth, former soldier was second in line to the Earldom. Upon his brother's death, he inherited the title and responsibilities that go with it, including the responsibility of producing the requisite heirs. Absorbed in his political career, he has little time or inclination for marriage. His mother on the other hand, considers Geoffrey's only duty is to produce an heir. With neither Geoffrey's knowledge or approval she proceeds to invite a number of eligible young ladies to the family home, Somerton Park in Stropshire for a house party.

Both Geoffrey and Liliana are good people. Geoffrey wants to use his title and influence to help former soldiers, who have come back to England, having no job, income, or housing. Liliana is a scientist in a time when women's education and careers were not considered important or even necessary. The romance was a slowly evolving one. Neither Geoffrey nor Liliana desire to marry. Their relationship grows from respect and admiration. The lessons in love that Geoffrey teaches Liliana are surprisingly sensual and beautifully described.

I particularly enjoyed Heather Snow's scientific details woven into the plot. In the author's notes and bio I found that Ms Snow is herself a chemist. She has cleverly incorporated her own knowledge and experience as a scientist into the heroine's career. Consequently giving the story and the heroine's career an authentic feel, without overwhelming the reader with too much detail.

Sweet Enemy is a really enjoyable read and an impressive historical romance debut.

Steam: 3

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Feb 19, 2012 Rane rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: regency-romance-napoleonic-era

A plain fun regency with a touch of mystery, science and two great characters, Heather Snow's debut Sweet Enemy was alot of fun from start to finsih. While it did go into some territory that's been done before, it never really stopped it from being good.

With the two main characters Geoffrey Wentworth, Earl of Stratford whose just enter the Earl role and using his power as a peer to help those who served in the military once along side him and Miss Liliana Claremont a chemist whose trying to pr...more A plain fun regency with a touch of mystery, science and two great characters, Heather Snow's debut Sweet Enemy was alot of fun from start to finsih. While it did go into some territory that's been done before, it never really stopped it from being good.

With the two main characters Geoffrey Wentworth, Earl of Stratford whose just enter the Earl role and using his power as a peer to help those who served in the military once along side him and Miss Liliana Claremont a chemist whose trying to prove her worth in a man's world. Both have no desire to marry but are thrown together in a party for Geoffrey to find a bride. Liliana on the other hand is out to prove who may have murder her father and it leads her straight to Stratford. Even if she tried to fight it, the attraction between these two is burning bright, but when the truth comes out it may ruin any chance of happiness they may both have.

Even with a house party going on, the story focus in mostly on our two main characters. With the side characters being on a tad shallow side with their use as to move the story along or give helpful and not so helpful hints to what really happen to Liliana's father.
I liked both characters Geoffery more so as he used his peer power to help the men who served with him find work and a living then begging on the street with no help. He could at times be a little pain in the butt, it never goes beyond him being a total asshat until the truth of what Liliana is trying to discover hurts him.

Liliana was a strong woman, in a time unknown is shun by being a chemist and following in her father's footsteps. She sometimes uses her head more then her heart or gut when you as a reader know it's not just as cut and dry as it first appears.

The insta-lust and rivalry in the beginning was on the cute side but been done many of times before, they do get to know one another but always the undercurrent of desire/lust for one another, Geoffery wanting her, not wanting her and Liliana holding back on telling Geoffery the truth got a little old afterward.

As the reader you pretty much know how it's all going to end up (and if you've read your fair amount of HRs you know what I mean) everything is wrapped up quiet nicely and I give applause to the author for creating a great mystery that ties in with the Egypt craze of the time and Napoleon reign and time in egypt.

For a debut it was a tad wallpaper-ish, but overall still a fun and relaxing read.

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Feb 24, 2012 Stella rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, for-review, historical, romance, favorites

The short and quite incoherent sum of my first impressions:

Wow wow wow. I lack the words as I'm still under the story's spell to tell you eloquently what an amazing novel this is. The writing is exquisite, the characters well fleshed out, three-dimensional and interesting, the love story is fresh and beautiful.

A stellar debut for Heather Snow, I'm already counting back the days until I can read her next novel!

And my detailed review:

I still remember every small detail about that time I read Swee...more

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Feb 21, 2012 SOS Aloha rated it 5 of 5 stars

It pays to know the enemy - not least because at some time you may have the opportunity to turn him into a friend.- Margaret Thatcher

Regency romance is my favorite genre but it is also the most crowded. As readers scream for diverse characters in exotic locales, debut author Heather Snow embraces the “bread and butter” – a house party. SWEET EMENY delivers a house party like no other with its obvious marriage mart, informal political alignments, and even a medieval revival! But it is the things...more It pays to know the enemy - not least because at some time you may have the opportunity to turn him into a friend.- Margaret Thatcher

Regency romance is my favorite genre but it is also the most crowded. As readers scream for diverse characters in exotic locales, debut author Heather Snow embraces the “bread and butter” – a house party. SWEET EMENY delivers a house party like no other with its obvious marriage mart, informal political alignments, and even a medieval revival! But it is the things that go bump in the night that lead to intrigue and passion between the protagonists who resist each other each step of the way.

The hero, Geoffrey Wentworth, the Earl of Stratford, reluctantly attends the house party that his mother has initiated – he sees the opportunity to solicit support for his Poor Employment Bill from the attending aristocrats. The heroine, Liliana Clarement, begs her aunt to secure an invitation, misleading her to think that she is interested in marrying. Instead, Liliana seeks to search the estate for evidence that someone in the Wentworth family lead her father to his death. Snow writes characters who are noble but flawed. I found myself emotional invested in their welfare, especially during Medieval Fair that Geoffrey’s mother hosts to sow the seeds of romance. Little does the Dowager Countess realize that the seeds take root between Geoffrey and Liliana.

The seeds blossom in to a full courtship with witty dialogue. Liliana makes every effort to deflect Geoffrey’s attention so she can continue her search. Yet she finds herself falling in love with an earl who cares for former soldiers, who listens to her scientific knowledge, and who ignites her own fire. Geoffrey and Liliana must contend with the thorns that come with beautiful flowers – the emotional baggage that each has carried since childhood and the simple fact that neither helps the other in accomplishing their goal. Yet Snow has fortified her characters with backbones to work through the conflict, particularly trust. In the end, the perceived enemy becomes a friend (and a perceived friend becomes the enemy).

This is an exceptional book from a debut author with one minor flaw – I would like to have read more action earlier in the story regarding the mystery. Then again, I would have missed the entertaining scenes from the Medieval Fair and the tender moments during their morning rides. When the mystery is finally resolved, I found myself congratulating Snow on delivering a unique twist to a Regency cliché (I remain vague to prevent any spoilers). Recommended read for fans of historical romance; fans who have become disenchanted with historical romance; and readers who have not sampled historical romance.

The author provided a print copy for this review.
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Jul 26, 2012 Ilze rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: heather-snow

Excellent debut novel. Loved both of the main characters, especially the heroine, and the plot was highly original and well-executed. Even the final crisis (there's always one in these books) was believable and fit with the story. I don't usually appreciate mysteries and suspense in the romance books I read, but this one worked well and kept my attention completely.

I also really liked the depiction of the heroine as intelligent, strong-minded and dedicated to her "life's work", as she put it. T...more

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Mar 17, 2012 Logan Carter rated it 5 of 5 stars

A well written, well researched novel. This book was a pleasant surprise; intelligent, witty, an element of mystery, and not too detailed in the intimacy department. Real characters with real flaws, which made them even more likeable. Definitely one of the best historical romance novels I've read. Heather Snow has done a fine job with this novel, and I will definitely watch for any future books by the very talented Ms. Snow. Her writing is a breath of fresh air to the genre.

I received this book...more

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May 15, 2012 Ashley (Firestarbooks) rated it 5 of 5 stars

I LOOOOVEEDDD this book! Before I started the book, I fell for the premise of the book. I am a fan of science and when Heather contacted me, I was super excited! I have no idea why it took so long for me to review!

Yeah, have you ever read a book that everything was perfect? I love how adventurous Liliana was and she was not the stupid girl who week adventure. You know what I am talking about, she is not the girl that you shout at the page "NO! Why would you do that! That is just so stupid!". Lil...more

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Feb 17, 2012 Maxine rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 50-book-pledge, historical, romance

This was fabulous! A wonderful debut novel, an interesting cast of characters, a great story-line, fabulous tension, a happy ending - all in all - a great read!

Liliana Claremont is a chemist, and has shunned the normal strictures that society places upon women to follow her passions and her dreams. When that leads to her discovering that her father was murdered, she follows the clues to the Stratford estate where she meets Geoffrey Wentworth, the Earl of Stratford.

Geoffrey is a returning war her...more

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Jul 21, 2012 Carrie Lim rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, historical-romance, adult, banter, characters-made-of-win, deserves-all-the-stars-in-the-sky, duel-challenge, epic-plot, epic-proposals, espionage, families, favorite, favorite-couples, favorite-heroes, favorite-heroines, hero-alpha, hero-military, heroine-reluctant, humor, love-between-the-lines, melt-worthy-scenes, momentous-moments, secret-affairs, sealed-with-a-deal, thoughts-are-real-thoughts, hero-disabled-physically, heroine-independent

Another book to put on the favorites shelf. I'm not really sure how to even write a review for this. I can't possibly say words to explain just how amazing this book is. I wish there was an option to insert feelings *here*

This story is smart, funny, beautiful. I'm so in love with the characters.

Liliana and Geoffrey, I love them equally. And that is hard to come by in a romance, usually it's one or the other, but in this story my love is shared equally between the two.

Liliana, so spunky, so indep...more

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Jan 29, 2013 Hannah Fielding rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book is the debut novel from Heather Snow and I am very impressed. This novel has all of the usual things we associate with, and love about, historical romance – society rules, nobility and titles, balls, dresses, romance and fluttering hearts. But what makes it stand out is the crossover element, adding a touch of mystery and danger that keeps the plot moving forward quickly and making the book a real page-turner.

Added to that is the fabulous heroine, Liliana, who is not the usual lady of...more This book is the debut novel from Heather Snow and I am very impressed. This novel has all of the usual things we associate with, and love about, historical romance – society rules, nobility and titles, balls, dresses, romance and fluttering hearts. But what makes it stand out is the crossover element, adding a touch of mystery and danger that keeps the plot moving forward quickly and making the book a real page-turner.

Added to that is the fabulous heroine, Liliana, who is not the usual lady of the Regency period. She is strong and independent, and extremely intelligent; the kind of woman you root for as she outsmarts her way through the book, going against the wishes of her aunt and single-handedly taking on the world:

Her entire life she had been told to keep out of men’s pursuits. As if men alone had a brain worth educating. As if only men were capable of understanding complex scientific theory or making any worthy contribution to the world besides making babies.

Well, not today. Liliana took a bold step forward. “I’d wager, my lord,” she scoffed, “that this woman can not only make that weapon fire faster, but increase its accuracy measurably.”
Heather Snow’s characterisation in this book is wonderful. Liliana is a chemist and so the book is littered with scientific references which add authenticity:

She’d always had it–this compulsion to break things down to their elements. To discover the why and the how. It was what drove her to continue to pursue science, even though she’d been harshly rejected by the male establishment. And in a sense, it was what drove her now. She would discover the truth.

Could you see guilt in someone’s eyes? And if so, how did you quantify it?

She hadn’t been a bit surprised by the curiosity that had gripped her when she’d given in to his kisses – after all, she was nothing if not inquisitive. Any good scientist worth her sodium chloride was.

In this story, Liliana has gone undercover. She is trying to discover the identity of her father’s murderer. It is not her intention to fall in love with Geoffrey, the earl of Stratford, but there is something very alluring about him and she cannot help but be attracted to him.

Geoffrey is also a very interesting character and not at all what you (or Liliana) expect him to be. He is not bogged down in the rules of society; he listens to Liliana’s theories and advice and he treats her as an equal, not just an adornment he can parade while he gets on with his work in political circles. He too does not want to marry, but understands that he has duties as a earl to keep the family name going. The chemistry between Geoffrey and Liliana is explosive and passionate, but also wonderfully tender. It was such a pleasure to read about how their love for each other grew and how they solved the mystery surrounding Liliana’s father’s untimely death.

The book is written from both Liliana and Geoffrey’s point of view, allowing you as a reader to fully understand the intense feelings and conflict that each is feeling. Heather Snow’s description is wonderful. You can really believe the actions and reactions caused by analytical mind of Liliana in a society which is not yet quite ready to accept this academic dedication and ability in a woman. The descriptive detail of the unusual setting and situations that the characters find themselves in is superbly handled, with just enough to allow the pictures to blossom and captivate you. The addition of the mystery to the story allowed the characters to fall in love over weeks rather than days, without affecting the pace of the book. I loved the often humorous and sometimes sarcastic dialogue between the characters, and the twists and turns that formed this mixture of romance, mystery, suspense and intrigue.

I really enjoyed this novel and I am pleased to see that already another book in the series has been published. I look forward to reading it.(less)

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Aug 27, 2012 Melody May rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, historical

Posted at http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

I'm so excited to tell you about this book. I actually read this book when it first came out back in February. I had just started my twitter account and my blog wasn't even a thought yet. It was the time where I had my running list of romance novels I read with comments (looking back at the list I turned into a slacker). Well, the list of books started to get out of control and couldn't keep the list up. Sorry I'm digressing here, let me back to the point...more Posted at http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

I'm so excited to tell you about this book. I actually read this book when it first came out back in February. I had just started my twitter account and my blog wasn't even a thought yet. It was the time where I had my running list of romance novels I read with comments (looking back at the list I turned into a slacker). Well, the list of books started to get out of control and couldn't keep the list up. Sorry I'm digressing here, let me back to the point. I read this book and loved it. However, Heather's new book had just came out at the beginning of the month and I just couldn't remember the main points of the first one, so I decided to re-read Sweet Enemy. Here's what's it about:

We have Miss Liliana Claremont who lost both her parents at a tender young age. Basically grew up as an orphan. I know, sad. Instead of opening up to everyone and anyone she closed herself off and becomes very interested in chemistry and the effects on things. Mainly, she looked for a way to help people with science.

However, something happens to cause her to look into the death of her father more closely. Which she needed to go undercover to find the answers at a house party at the Earl of Stratford's home. She managed to secure an invite via her aunt, who love to see her married off.

Geoffrey Wentworth, Earl of Stratford, would like nothing more than to stay in town and focus on trying to help his fellow soldiers. However, that's not going to happen with a conniving mother. Which, she manage to get all the key power players that he needs to secure this act to come his house party that he's hosting (by the way didn't know till he answered his mother's summons). Now Geoffrey is stuck at a house party with a gaggle of women, who all want to be next Countess of Stratford, except for one.

Liliana is on a mission to find answers to a burning question, "Who killed her father?" Believing she could fly under the radar from everyone, especially the Earl. You got to love when a plan goes out the window. Geoffrey and Liliana find themselves drawn to each other. Will Liliana find the answers she's looking for or will she be disappointed to find the answers? Can Geoffrey and Lilian's relationship survive this? I guess you will have to read the story to find out.

Now my thoughts: I still LOVE this book. It made me laugh and cry. So, much fun. You have to love a heroine who is not afraid to be her true self, even when it's truly unpopular to be a "bluestocking kinda gal." The hero is fabulous too. I mean when he stands up to his mother on the choice to take Liliana as his wife when he should have picked a docile wife that would do anything he says without question. Truly a great read and I'm excited to get to dive into Heather's next book. So, I hope you get a chance to check this book out.

Happy reading!(less)

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May 08, 2012 Romancing the Book rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, romance

Posted on Romancing the Book's blog
Reviewed By~JoAnne
Reveiw Copy Provided by~the Author

This is the first book in the “Veiled Seduction” series and if the other books in the series are as good as Sweet Enemy is I will enjoy reading them too. I’m beginning to enjoy books that have prologues and epilogues since the first gives a hint of what is to come and the last ties up all the loose ends and hints at the future. Sweet Enemy didn’t disappoint by using that format. There was romance both sweet an...more Posted on Romancing the Book's blog
Reviewed By~JoAnne
Reveiw Copy Provided by~the Author

This is the first book in the “Veiled Seduction” series and if the other books in the series are as good as Sweet Enemy is I will enjoy reading them too. I’m beginning to enjoy books that have prologues and epilogues since the first gives a hint of what is to come and the last ties up all the loose ends and hints at the future. Sweet Enemy didn’t disappoint by using that format. There was romance both sweet and not so sweet, mystery, betrayals, intrigue and family dynamics at work throughout. The book kept my attention from beginning to end with a lot of twists and turns to keep you guessing and invested in the outcome – some were predictable but many were not. There was a happily ever after that didn’t look possible but was what I was hoping for.

Liliana had a hard exterior since she was a chemist in the 1800′s which went against everything women should be, do or act like. She had also built a wall around her heart after the murder of her father. Geoffrey also steeled his heart against being involved in any scenario or even feeling love. Watching the two of them fight their love which neither recognized and both doubted even when one would tell the other of it was handled smoothly. Their feelings ran the gamut from hate to love, from trust to betrayal along with many others and it was interesting to feel their emotions.

The descriptions of the countryside, the parties, the house and their horseback rides were vivid and made you feel a part of it. I look forward to reading other books in the series as well as other books written by Snow. She will be added to my favorite author’s list.

Favorite Quote: Liliana pressed her lips together in a smile. He may know more about relations, but he couldn’t feel how completely spent she was. And yet, she was intrigued. What if he were correct? She’d never get a chance again to test the theory. “What kind of wager, Major?”
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Mar 10, 2012 Bookaholics rated it 4 of 5 stars

Sweet Enemy by Heather Snow
Historical Romance -Feb. 7th, 2012
4 stars

Miss Liliana Claremont is determined to find out who murdered her father. Her primary suspect is Geoffrey Wentworth, the Earl of Wentworth. He is holding a week long house party to find a suitable bride. Tagging along with her cousin and aunt, Liliana plans to make full use of the week to find evidence regarding her father’s death. Unfortunately, she draws the attention of the earl in an unexpected way. Geoffrey is trapped by hi...more

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Feb 25, 2012 Julie Barrett rated it 5 of 5 stars

Sweet Enemy by Heather Snow
Liliana had found some old letters behind the book shelves when she
returned from asking others to help with the robbery at her home. The
letters didn't make sense to her but it reminded her of her father's dying
words: be trade (betrayed). Given the only clue was the wax seal on the
bundle of letters that'd be a good place to start her search for the answer
to who murdered her father. It was just by chance she and her aunt and cousin
got an invite to go to the place where t...more

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Feb 24, 2012 Maria rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: historical romance, mystery romance

Shelves: romance, historical-romance

This rating is really a 3.5, and I debated for some time if it should be a little higher because the story was definitely interesting. Regency romance has become increasingly homogeneous in recent years, and it has become difficult to find stories that feel original. This is what attracted me to this novel: The mystery at the heart of the novel is based in true events and is solved in a way that makes sense for 1817.

Liliana Claremont has just discovered that her father's murder a decade prior w...more This rating is really a 3.5, and I debated for some time if it should be a little higher because the story was definitely interesting. Regency romance has become increasingly homogeneous in recent years, and it has become difficult to find stories that feel original. This is what attracted me to this novel: The mystery at the heart of the novel is based in true events and is solved in a way that makes sense for 1817.

Liliana Claremont has just discovered that her father's murder a decade prior wasn't a random act at the hands of thugs, but she doesn't know why someone would have wanted to kill her chemist father. After her house is broken into she finds a stack of letters that connects her father to the Earl of Stratford, but the content is in code, and without the other half of the conversation there is no way she can get the answers she desperately needs.

Geoffrey Wentworth is the current Earl Of Stratford, a second son that was off serving with Wellington when his father died a decade prior, and has recently come into the title on his brother's death. His mother has decided that it is well past the time he marries and produces his heir and spare, and she maneuvers him into coming home for a house party she has planned in his name as a way to parade a dozen eligible young women before him. Unwilling to be made to look the fool, he reluctantly plays along in order to further his political aspirations. Liliana discovers the house party and arranges to attend with her cousin; she doesn't know if the current earl was involved with her father's murder, and she only has a vague sense of a plan, but she's determined to search until she gets some answers.

As I read the book I found myself thinking that I've been ruined by reading Austen a few too many times...Liliana traipses all over the countryside in boy's clothing, which is convenient for solving mysteries, but completely out of character for the period, even for this forward-thinking chemistry-loving woman. Geoffrey never bats a lash at her conduct, except to lust over how her rear end looks in trousers, and it just felt a little too modern in sensibility (Austen reference intended).

And speaking of other things that possibly stretch credulity, Geoffrey is a shining Disney knight of a good guy: His twelve years in the war have left him with a profound respect for the common man, and he wants to champion the poor as his life's work. Although he is resigned to marrying for political advantage, the more he gets to know Liliana the more he thinks everything she does is magic. He wants to support her in being forward-thinking and progressive, which he thinks is way cool (pardon the slang, but it fits). Then, of course, he discovers that she's been keeping secrets, which plunges his poor, shattered heart to the depths of despair even though he understands why she has to keep so much to herself. Although this drama works in the story, this plot twist feels a little contrived and at odds with itself: Either Geoffrey respects her intelligence and desire/ability to problem solve, or he doesn't. His reaction feels a little extreme, and I wanted to yell at him to snap out of it!

Overall, though, this was an impressive debut from Heather Snow, and has earned her a place on my 'romance novelists to look for' list. The story she has written doesn't feel like a retread and, taking into consideration that there are some anachronisms, the narrative moves at a natural pace that has these characters falling in love over weeks in the somewhat formal setting of a house party rather than jumping into bed on their first date. I appreciate the deliberate pace of the book, and I am left feeling as though this couple has legitimately worked things out with each other. I am already looking forward to the next story in this new series, Sweet Deception, out August 2012.(less)

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Feb 15, 2012 Kendra rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads

For full review including excerpt and dialogue highlight, please visit Reader's Edyn:
http://bit.ly/ysLhap

Review:
As you all may have noticed, I have been on a historical romance kick lately. I love HR! Started with HR, will always go back to HR. It is my favorite of all genres. But what I have noticed most about the recent HR reads I have been rabidly reading through is that I have very much enjoyed them all. I mean, seriously. When reading multiple books, you would expect to find something that...more For full review including excerpt and dialogue highlight, please visit Reader's Edyn:
http://bit.ly/ysLhap

Review:
As you all may have noticed, I have been on a historical romance kick lately. I love HR! Started with HR, will always go back to HR. It is my favorite of all genres. But what I have noticed most about the recent HR reads I have been rabidly reading through is that I have very much enjoyed them all. I mean, seriously. When reading multiple books, you would expect to find something that you don’t exactly swoon over. Most especially because many of the authors I have read lately are new-to-me. But I have absolutely loved them. And what is more? Many of these authors are showcasing their debut novels. Yup. You read that right. DEBUT! Well, I am here to say, the fabulous debut author Heather Snow has got what it takes!

Geoffrey is in a pickle. A returned war hero, he has witnessed the harsh realities of life after war. The soldiers frequently return to nothing and consequently end up begging on the street just to survive after putting their lives on the line for the country that has failed to acknowledge their bravery. Sure, people call them heroes, but hero status does not put food on the table of the underprivileged. Geoffrey aims to change that and with his position in Parliament, he is fast approaching the clout to push his dreams into reality. Except his mother has other plans and has every intention of seeing him settle down and get down to fulfilling his responsibility of providing an heir. Now he is trapped at his own house party he did NOT plan with a bunch of scheming potential wives and their meddling mothers. What is worse, he is completely exasperated by the fair Liliana, which quickly blossoms into a healthy dose of lust. And Geoffrey is trying desperately not to succumb to his baser instincts.

Liliana has ulterior motives - quite a few of them actually – for finagling her aunt into securing her acceptance to the Earl’s house party. The primary reason, to discover the possible individual guilty of murdering her father. She knows someone within the Earl’s home is responsible and she has to start with the Earl himself. But Liliana is playing a dangerous game. First, she has lied to her Aunt, acting as if she would like to try and snag the Earl for her own when all she really wants to do is continue her life’s work as a scientist. Then there is the matter of Geoffrey. Liliana is in no way seeking a husband. After all, they tend to dictate to their wives, and don’t generally support those who opt to participate in professions that refuse to accept women. She is not going to give up her passion for the sake of something undesirable like marriage and family. Except the Earl is fast becoming more and more desirable. And Liliana is finding it near impossible to ignore the longing he evokes within her. As their relationship grows, Liliana becomes the one in the pickle. Does she give up the search for her father’s killer and attempt a future with Geoffrey, or does she confess all and pray he does not cast her aside?

I. Loved. This. Book. Ms. Snow shoots outside of the box in creating her characters and achieves magical results. Geoffrey is not what one expects of the higher class. He is determined to help those less fortunate, especially his fellow soldiers, and will use whatever influence he can to see his dream fulfilled. Liliana is no less unconventional. In her bid to become a recognized member within the scientific realm – a dominion that staunchly refuses to allow women a place within, despite her brilliance, she becomes more of an outcast than anything. She is obviously all wrong for an Earl with political ties, but that, oftentimes, makes her absolutely perfect as his match. And of course, both are opposed to being forced into conforming like the rest of their peers, so both have to overcome the protective walls resurrected before a chance at happiness is given the slightest flicker of a possibility. I love that Liliana is strong and capable, while obviously unaware of an obvious need for love an acceptance she tried hard to oppress.

Adding to the splendor of this story is intelligence and wit mixed with just the right amount of sarcasm. And the intellect demonstrated by both Liliana and Geoffrey is not overdone. The scientific facts, for example are kept to a level that allows enhancement of the story while maintaining the readers attention. The wit and sarcasm is utterly charming. One of my favorite paragraphs is Geoffrey speaking to his horse while thinking other thoughts to himself about Liliana, who is devastating his senses in every way possible by this time.
He found a spot to rest the horses away from the crab apple trees. Grin nudged him in protest. “Much too much temptation over there,” Geoffrey mumbled, as much to himself as to the horse. “You, my friend, have an appalling lack of self-control.” As does your master. “And I have no desire” – to find myself married to a woman completely wrong for me – “to nurse a sick horse all the way home,” he said, patting Grin on the rump.

Throw in the bits of mystery and danger and you have the formula for this fresh, delightful novel. And … did I mention that the cover of this book has a quote from Julie Garwood? Julie. Garwood. People. I mean seriously. What more of an endorsement do you need? I can say for sure that I will be keeping an eye on Ms. Snow as I am confident she is an author to watch. Sweet Enemy is also part of a series: Veiled Seduction. Happily, I have discovered that an intriguing secondary character from the book, Aveline, will get his story in book 2, Sweet Deception, due out in August of this year. The reader is offered a glimpse into Aveline, but not near enough. My curiosity strings have been well and truly plucked. You can bet I will be reading that book for sure. Historical romance lovers are sure to enjoy Ms. Snow and her charming debut.

(ARC Paperback received from author for review.)(less)

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Feb 06, 2012 Mary Gramlich rated it 5 of 5 stars

SWEET ENEMY by Heather Snow
02/12 - Penguin Group - Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages

What does one do when the objective they set in life is changed?

Liliana Claremont has a clear and concise way of handling problems and living her life. After her father’s death she choose to live frugally allowing her to pursue his interests in chemistry without a husband. Geoffrey Wentworth, the Earl of Stratford is of the same mindset and the last thing he wants is to be married.

Geoffrey’s mother and Liliana’s a...more SWEET ENEMY by Heather Snow
02/12 - Penguin Group - Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages

What does one do when the objective they set in life is changed?

Liliana Claremont has a clear and concise way of handling problems and living her life. After her father’s death she choose to live frugally allowing her to pursue his interests in chemistry without a husband. Geoffrey Wentworth, the Earl of Stratford is of the same mindset and the last thing he wants is to be married.

Geoffrey’s mother and Liliana’s aunt disagree with this idea and force a house party meeting upon them. With total indifference on his part, Geoffrey agrees only as it will push his political goals since the house guests include the political parties he needs to win his point. Liliana on the other hand uses this tryst to investigate what she believes was the murder of her father at the hands of someone living at Somerton Park, Geoffrey’s estate. Though she wants to Liliana cannot in fact, even rule out Geoffrey himself, as she has not cleared his name quite yet. The problem starts once Liliana and Geoffrey turn the tables from indifference to desire. Neither of them understand what is going on since they know they do not want a relationship, but the attraction between them is explosive and something neither can deny nor hide from.

The secret rendezvous become more frequent and the trust Geoffrey shows Liliana weighs heavy on her heart. Liliana does not want to use him to gain access to the information she seeks, but must. She worries what will happen when he finds out her true mission and wonders if losing his love is too a high a price to pay for solving this mystery. Liliana has always moved toward her life’s mission of using her knowledge to help others, now though she realizes she needs help. Can she turn to the man of her future, or will she always be haunted by the ghosts of her past?

This book is the equivalent of a first time at bat and hitting a grand slam, it is that good. There is not a sentence that is not captivating and a chapter that does not make you want to read more. I adored these flawed yet perfect characters and with every encounter, I knew they were going to be a glorious romantic hit. Heather Snow has a future so bright she definitely will need sunglasses to block the lights of fame.(less)

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Mar 23, 2013 Cerian rated it 4 of 5 stars

Just from reading the blurb, you know that this isn't going to be your average Regency romance. I've been meaning to read Heather Snow's books for some time, and where better to start than at the beginning! Sweet Enemy is the first in the Veiled Seduction series and is also Snow's debut novel -although you would never know by reading it!

Liliana Claremont is certainly not your average society miss. She's a brilliant chemist, and has continued her father's work in studying chemistry. But when she...more Just from reading the blurb, you know that this isn't going to be your average Regency romance. I've been meaning to read Heather Snow's books for some time, and where better to start than at the beginning! Sweet Enemy is the first in the Veiled Seduction series and is also Snow's debut novel -although you would never know by reading it!

Liliana Claremont is certainly not your average society miss. She's a brilliant chemist, and has continued her father's work in studying chemistry. But when she unearths new information about her father's murder, she will stop at nothing to find her answers. Liliana is a very likeable character, she's strong, independent and intelligent. She has a very inquisitive and scientific mind, shown throughout the book with many scientific references, which lent an authentic feel to Liliana's character.

Geoffrey is a rather refreshing and original hero. Once he begins to get to know Liliana he listens to her opinions, and treats her as an equal. He's interested in her as a genuine partner in life and appreciated her for the qualities which many frowned upon in this era. It also helped that he was handsome and honourable, determined to make changes in the country to help the poor- particularly to help the plight of soldiers left unemployed and starving after the war.

Their chemistry was immediate and wonderful! The love that grew between them didn't just stem from physical attraction though, it built as they came to understand each other's characters properly.

The mystery of Liliana's father's murder was wonderfully crafted. It blends superbly with the romance, and keeps you guessing.
As Liliana and Geoffrey's relationship grew, Liliana's guilt about keeping secrets from him also grows. I felt so bad for her but you also understand why she can't let it go. Honesty is one of the traits Geoffrey values most, so you just knew it was going to be heart breaking when the truth came out!

Heather Snow's debut novel is a fabulous read, with humour, mystery and suspense injected into it. It kept me guessing, and kept me reading far later than I should have been! I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series!

Originally posted at Rookie Romance.(less)

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Jan 15, 2012 Kimberly Rocha~ Book Obsessed Chicks rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: romances-a-la-kimberly

Liliana Claremont is a rather unusual lady for her day and age. Unmarried at twenty four, with no intention of marrying, she lives alone in her own home following the death of her father and she continues his work as a chemist. Liliana believes her father was murdered and she means to find who did it.When she discovers letters from a anonymous person with a noble seal on the envelope, the Wentworth seal, Liliana must figure out how to investigate.

Geoffrey Wentworth, the Earl of Stratford shares...more

Liliana Claremont is a rather unusual lady for her day and age. Unmarried at twenty four, with no intention of marrying, she lives alone in her own home following the death of her father and she continues his work as a chemist. Liliana believes her father was murdered and she means to find who did it.When she discovers letters from a anonymous person with a noble seal on the envelope, the Wentworth seal, Liliana must figure out how to investigate.

Geoffrey Wentworth, the Earl of Stratford shares Liliana's feelings on marriage. The handsome war hero has taken up his deceased brother's mantle as Earl of Statford and between his political aspirations and his need to return the Wentworth fortune his brother apparently mismanaged.

When Geoffrey's mother, Genevieve, Lady Stratford tricks her son into having a two week long soiree to basically interview perspective brides, he is livid. He has no intention of picking a bride from the long list of ladies of the ton. Meeting Liliana Claremont puts a kink in his demeanor since she is a complete conundrum to the Earl. Liliana has no interest in becoming the handsome Geoffrey's wife. She is in fact there to find clues to who murdered her father, but everywhere she turns, Geoffrey's imposing figure is as well and she finds herself attracted to him.

As much as Geoffrey resists, he discovers he has an strong attraction to the uncommon woman.Will the passions that arise between the Earl and the chemist result in an unusual love match or will they be their downfall as Liliana comes closer to finding out the mystery of her father's death? Find out when Sweet Enemy hits bookshelves on February 7, 2012.

I have a new go to girl for my historicals. Heather Snow brings a fresh take on nobility, adding her quick wit to he writing. The added intrigue of the search for the truth in Liliana's father's murder was an important part, but not the only attraction. Watching the handsome but wary Geoffrey try to work through his issues of never wanting to love as well as Liliana putting her trust in a man other than her dearly departed father is a journey that is well done in Sweet Enemy. I am looking forward to more from Heather Snow. I really enjoyed this book and I hope you will too.(less)

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Mar 26, 2013 Megan rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: free, historical-fiction, romance, series

I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It was really sweet but there were enough serious elements to keep it from being painfully so. Liliana was a delightfully capable heroine and goes after what she's looking for, even when the different things she wants start conflicting. My only issue with her was how guilty she felt about how she went about certain things that I did not think were as bad as she made them out to be. It wasn't too bad, there were just moments where I wanted to be all "you don't nee...more

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Aug 19, 2012 Grace rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, 2012-all, 2012-new, ebook

4.5 stars

I just really, really enjoyed this. Independent bluestocking heroine who just wants to find out the truth so she can go back to her quiet country life with her laboratory and her experiments. A hero who was a second son and a soldier, who has been working to provide aide to fellow soldiers who have come back from the war and now have nothing. His mother hosts a house party in the hopes of finding him a proper bride, and Liliana has her aunt secure her an invitation because it's her best...more

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Aug 09, 2012 Elizabeth Plav rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-read

The author, Heather Snow is as masterful as building chemistry as her main character is in actual chemistry (to say: very much so). The tension and chemistry between hero and heroine is well done. As a reader, you felt that they had a real thing going on, and given the circumstance, if these characters were to live in real life, they would be a happy couple. I also like some of the vaunderablility she gives gives the the main hero.

That being said, I do have some nit-picking about the story line....more

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Feb 17, 2012 Jenni Ebba rated it 4 of 5 stars

I won this novel through Goodreads First Reads! Thank you to the people at Penguin.
Of course I love me some historical romance and Sweet Enemy is an awesome one to add to anyone's book collection. This novel had all the greats; great character development, great plot, and great setting! Heather Snow's writing is truly compelling and makes you feel what the characters feel.
The story is about a girl, Liliana, who is older than the average age to get married (24). Her late father was a respecte...more

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Mar 07, 2013 Karen rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Mar 05, 2012 Aarati rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, mystery, heroine-feminist, hero-soldier, funny, romance

Wow.

This quote exemplifies what I adored about the book: "When she was seven, she’d decided to find out how quickly snails could move. She’d meticulously observed and recorded the progress of six different specimens. They’d averaged four inches every seven minutes. Liliana shook her head as her party inched forward. Those snails would have reached the Earl of Stratford before she would."

SO MANY moments spoke to my inner nerd that I practically squeed my way through the book. The mystery worked...more

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May 21, 2012 Lisa Lin rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I am a big fan of historical romances, and have heard great things about Heather Snow and her debut, so I was excited about receiving a copy as a gift from a friend. The premise was quite interesting, so I dove right in.
I really enjoyed the book, particularly the chemistry between Geoffrey and Lilliana. Battle of the sexes stories are some of my favorites and this book had it in spades. The scenes when the two of them spar and bicker was great fun, and reminded me of Kate and Anthony in JQ’s The...more I am a big fan of historical romances, and have heard great things about Heather Snow and her debut, so I was excited about receiving a copy as a gift from a friend. The premise was quite interesting, so I dove right in.
I really enjoyed the book, particularly the chemistry between Geoffrey and Lilliana. Battle of the sexes stories are some of my favorites and this book had it in spades. The scenes when the two of them spar and bicker was great fun, and reminded me of Kate and Anthony in JQ’s The Viscount Who Loved Me. The first quarter of the book was almost like a sparring/chess match between them, the two of them circling each other, trying to get in each other’s heads and out strategize each other
After the death of her father, Lilliana Claremont has focused on chemistry experiments to try to discover and isolate the medicinal property of certain plants. It is her passion, and a way for her to remain connected to the memory of her parents. However, her focus on chemistry leaves her little time and interest to find an eligible husband and marry, much to her Aunt Eliza’s chagrin. She chafes at the societal restrictions that tells her to give up her pursuits to be a wife and mother, and won’t allow her to be a full participating member of the Royal Society, even though she has the requisite knowledge and experience. But when she gets accosted by a burglar at her cottage, it leads to the discovery that her father had not been killed by a random street thug has they had assumed, but had been betrayed and lured to his death. It appears the Earl of Stratford and/or his father may have been responsible, and she is determined to find and gather whatever evidence is necessary to bring her father’s killer to justice. Lilliana is predisposed to dislike anyone connected to the family, so she is confused and disconcerted when she feels an immediate attraction to Geoffrey, despite her initial suspicions about him. As she gets to know and understand Geoffrey, sees how honorable and kind-hearted and generous he is, she falls for him. But as their love deepens, her guilt at keeping the truth from him grows, which only heightens as he opens up and confides in her and gives her his hard earned trust. Despite her conflicting feelings, her desire for justice propels her forward. Throughout the course of her novel, she discovers not only the truth, but that since her father’s death, she’s led a shell of an existence because she has been too afraid to trust and be vulnerable for fear of getting hurt again. She eventually learns that her love for Geoffrey is worth the risk and lets down those barriers. I ended up liking Lilliana quite a bit, though I didn’t always agree with her actions, even if I understood her motives. I like heroines who are smart and intelligent like her, and I think it was interesting to have her be an accomplished chemist in an era where women in the sciences were unheard of. I think Heather does a great job of letting the reader inside her head, and I liked that Lilliana took responsibility for her actions and accepted Geoffrey’s anger has her due, instead of playing victim and saying “woe is me, if he really loved me, he would have understood why I had to do what I did.”

Geoffrey Wentworth is a war hero who is determined to use his new elevated status to help fellow veterans who have been abandoned once they came home. He is determined to wrangle the votes and support for the Poor Employment Act by any means necessary. His mother is equally determined to see him married to an eligible heiress and produce an heir. She traps him into hosting a house party by inviting influential members of Parliament. At the beginning, he is weary of Lilliana, thinking she is just another empty headed scheming debutante determined to land a lord after an unfortunate first meeting in the library when he catches Lilliana alone in the library. She’s trying to find evidence; he thinks she’s trying to spring a trap. But he is drawn to her, despite himself, coming to see and admire her scientific acumen, intelligence, and bravery. As the story develops, and his feelings for Lilliana grow, he is faced with a dilemma. Should he be with Lilliana, the woman his every instinct tells him is the one, who ignites his passions, understands him like no one else, or marry a more suitable woman who will bring the necessary money, connections, and social graces to be a political hostess and help his career and goal of helping war veterans? This struggle is not an easy one, because he takes the cause of helping veterans seriously, but he also can’t deny his heart. Eventually he comes to see that despite the example of his parents' unhappy marriage (mostly due to the actions of his manipulative shallow self-centered status conscious mother), a marraige based on mutual love, passion, trust, and respect is possible, and he wants it with Lilliana.When he discovers the truth, it is a horrible betrayal, though part of him understands why Lilliana did what she did, especially when they discover that the death of both their fathers was related. Geoffrey was a great hero, one readers will instantly fall in love with.

I felt the mystery surrounding the death of Lilliana and Geoffrey’s fathers was woven in well, and didn’t detract from the love story. I was guessing the whole time as to who the bad guy was, and what the possible connection was between their fathers.The solution, and the way Heatherexplains and ties everything together was quite clever. The conflict that arises between Geoffrey and Lilliana because of it was realistic, andshedoes a good job of ratcheting up the tension and stakes. In particular, Lilliana’s deceit was a constant dark cloud that threatened to ruin things between them at any moment. While you sympathized with Lilliana’s motives, Heather also sets up a great question of whether the ends justified the means. Was it worth it to find out what happened to her father, if it could cost Lilliana her life, reputation, and Geoffrey’s love? But I loved the subtle ways that Heather showed how much better and stronger both of them were when they worked together, and gave each other trust, love, and understanding (as in their collaboration to find out who killed their fathers) instead of giving in to mistrust and misunderstandings.
Heather's debut is very well written, with well-crafted characters that draw you in immediately. I would definitely recommend this book and am looking forward to what comes next from her.
(less)

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Mar 18, 2013 Nicole Laverdure rated it 5 of 5 stars

A sweet romance! I just finished reading Sweet Enemy! It is the first book in the Veiled Seduction series written by Heather Snow! What an excellent passionate love story!
I really enjoyed reading this beautiful story of Geoffrey and Liliana set in Regency period.
Sweet Enemy didn’t disappointed and I am sure that I will enjoy the next books in this series written by this newcomer author. Ms. Snow offered her readers a sweet romance.
It’s a wonderful intrigue fill with mystery and passion!
Geoffrey...more

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Feb 22, 2012 Donna rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: goodreads-first-reads

This is a free book from the Goodreads First Read Giveaway. The story is about Lilianna and her journey to find her fathers killer. It is set in the early 1800's in the elite society of England. Lilianna is a fish out of water, so to speak. She is smart, opinionated and balks at man's idea of what a woman's role in society should be. In order to find her father's killer, she must attend a get-away with her cousin and aunt. The event is hosted by Lady Stratford and she has invited all the eligibl...more

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Aug 15, 2012 Gemma rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I can hardly believe that this is a debut novel! It was so well written. Great characters, vivid history (without taking over the plot), an interesting mystery, and a good balance of romance and suspense. Many authors can't manage that in their 10th novel, let alone their first. I am very impressed.

This novel uses the "big secret" plot (not the "big misunderstanding", which I've come to loathe.) One big difference is that in this book, the heroine is honest with the hero, and confesses the truth...more I can hardly believe that this is a debut novel! It was so well written. Great characters, vivid history (without taking over the plot), an interesting mystery, and a good balance of romance and suspense. Many authors can't manage that in their 10th novel, let alone their first. I am very impressed.

This novel uses the "big secret" plot (not the "big misunderstanding", which I've come to loathe.) One big difference is that in this book, the heroine is honest with the hero, and confesses the truth to him before she's forced to do so. In many books with the big secret, the secret keeper won't admit the truth until they are forced into a corner. In this story, the heroine realizes that she can't have a true marriage to the hero without being honest with him. So even though he's nowhere near to discovering the truth on his own, she confesses it to him, knowing that she may very well lose him, but unwilling to keep him under false pretenses. That's a refreshing change from the usual way this kind of plot device is handled.

The sexual tension in this novel sizzled, but it wasn't the "I hate you, but you're so hot I can't keep my hands off you," type (I hate that). I also liked that the hero and heroine had more in common than just physical attraction. They had a true meeting of minds. They complemented one other emotionally and intellectually. I also liked that while the heroine was a lady ahead of her time, she wasn't a man-hating ball-buster. I don't mind feminisim in my books, but I don't like being bludgeoned over the head with it, and I don't like man-bashing. Thankfully, that didn't happen here. It was a part of the heroine's character, but it wasn't all of it. She wasn't a shrew or a stereotype.

The hero was your typical wounded one, but he also wasn't a stereotype. Yes, he'd been hurt and was afraid to be vulnerable, but he cared about more than just himself. I felt he was a great match for the heroine.

I give out my 5 star ratings very sparingly, but this book earned it. I will definitely be on the lookout for more books by this author. I recommend this to any lover of historical romance.(less)

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Apr 09, 2012 Dottie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Liliana, a brilliant chemist, wants to find the man responsible for her father's murder and she believes that the Earl of Stratford is involved. So she manages to obtain an invitation to the earl's house party. Geoffrey, the Earl of Stratford and a war hero, is hoping to gain support for his bill, which will better the lives of his fellow officers. He is horrified when he arrives home to a houseful of husband-hunting females, thanks to his mother's attempts to provide heirs for the title. Gettin...more

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Sweet Enemy (Veiled Seduction #1)

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