Unveiled (Turner, #1)

Aug 25, 2012 Baba ♥♥♥ Marcus, Tyler, Tate, Dan, Ty, & Hunter rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: courtney-milan, historicals, favorite-historicals, memorable-favorite-heroes

"I can't read books," he whispered, "but I have other skills. An instinct, if you will--this ability to know things, people, in the blink of an eye. It's how I made my fortune. It's how I knew, when I first saw you…" He trailed off, and reached out and deliberately ran a finger down her arm. "I knew I could trust you," he explained. "Instantly. Irrevocably."

It's beautiful. It's witty. It's charming. But above and beyond…it's incredibly intimate and I adored the subtleties.

"I want you to paint y...more

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Dec 06, 2010 UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Lovers of historical romance.

Shelves: 5-stars, 2010-reads, author-courtney-milan, netgalley, masquerading-as-someone-else, revenge, romance-historical, historical-romance, historical-romance-series, social-class-plays-big-role, caring-for-dying-relative, reviewed-by-me, top-couples-of-all-time, series-turner-milan, first-in-series

And ye shall tread down the wicked, for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet. - Malachi 4:3.

As much as he hates the name he was given by his religiously overzealous mother, Mr. Ash Turner has every intention of living up to it. He has spent the better part of his life watching, waiting for his chance to mete out revenge on his bitter enemy, the Duke of Palford. Now that the means have been laid at his feet, he’ll stop at nothing to see justice served. But will revenge be as sweet a...more
And ye shall tread down the wicked, for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet. - Malachi 4:3.

As much as he hates the name he was given by his religiously overzealous mother, Mr. Ash Turner has every intention of living up to it. He has spent the better part of his life watching, waiting for his chance to mete out revenge on his bitter enemy, the Duke of Palford. Now that the means have been laid at his feet, he’ll stop at nothing to see justice served. But will revenge be as sweet as he had always imagined it would be? The answer might just surprise him.

Lady Anna Margaret Dalrymple has found herself in a most unfortunate situation. Until recently, she was the daughter of a duke – the Duke of Palford – and enjoyed a life of comfort meant only for upper society. But now, evidence has come out proving that her father is a bigamist and that she and her brothers are bastards. And if that weren’t bad enough, with her father dying and no legitimate heirs to inherit the title, a distant cousin has decided to lay claim to the dukedom and that distant cousin is Ash Turner. Now it’s up to Lady Anna to help her brothers fight Mr. Turner’s claim by digging up anything she can on him that will prove him unfit to hold the title.

Ash Turner is the kind of hero I can honestly say I’d be attracted to outside the pages of a romance novel, which took me by surprise. Truly, how could I possibly come to care about someone who was willing to ruin the lives of innocents just to better the lives of himself and his brothers? Well, Ms. Milan pulled it off with skill and in doing so has given me another perfectly matched pair to add to my list of Top Ten Couples. Ash might be ruthless, but much to Lady Anna’s chagrin, he’s also honorable, kind, generous and fiercely loyal to those he loves. And he has a secret shame that no one, not even his brothers, know about, and one that had me in tears because for all his ruthlessness, he was so very vulnerable.

Lady Anna is such a wonderful character! She has a strength about her that we don’t often find in historical romance heroines. She’s willing to do whatever she has to do to protect her family, but when she gets to know Ash better, to see him for the man he truly is and not just the man he allows others to see, will she be able to follow through with her plan and betray him, using the knowledge he’s entrusted to her against him?

Throughout the story I was kept guessing as to how their differences could possibly be resolved allowing for both of their happiness, and in the end, I was very pleased with how things worked out, especially since it wasn’t something I had seen coming!

With Unveiled, Courtney Milan has given us a moving, romantic, passionate and sexy story. It’s a tale of deception, bitterness and loneliness, but it’s also a beautiful story about compassion, forgiveness and, under the most difficult of circumstances, finding that one person who loves you for everything you are and everything you are not. The person who is destined to give you the kind of happily ever after you didn’t believe existed.
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Feb 10, 2011 Dina rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, netgalley, ebook, dik

FAN-TAS-TIC!!! This was my first read by Ms. Milan and, wow, I was very impressed. I loved her writing, the story, the characters - everything.

Ash Turner, a wealthy man who's built his fortune in trade after enduring years of near poverty as a child, is finally close to avenging his sister's death and his brothers' suffering at the hands of the Dalrymples. After discovering that the head of the Dalrymple family, the Duke of Parford, married his mistress (in haste and in secret) when he was too y...more FAN-TAS-TIC!!! This was my first read by Ms. Milan and, wow, I was very impressed. I loved her writing, the story, the characters - everything.

Ash Turner, a wealthy man who's built his fortune in trade after enduring years of near poverty as a child, is finally close to avenging his sister's death and his brothers' suffering at the hands of the Dalrymples. After discovering that the head of the Dalrymple family, the Duke of Parford, married his mistress (in haste and in secret) when he was too young to know better and has never had that marriage annulled, Ash takes the case to the ecclesiastical courts, and thus has the duke's second marriage declared void for bigamy and the children resulting from that union declared illegitimate and unable to inherit. That leaves Ash, the duke’s long-hated fifth cousin, twice removed, as the presumptive heir. And with the duke's current medical condition, it's only a matter of time before Ash becomes the new Duke of Parford.

The Dalrymple "children" (Richard, Edmund and Margaret) have lost almost everything - their titles, their honor, their "friends" and their mother - in less than a year, all thanks to Ash's uncovering of their father's bigamy. They haven't accepted defeat, though. So when they learn that Ash is moving to Parford Manor to oversee the estate he's about to inherit, Richard and Edmund move to London in preparation for the upcoming battle that will take place in Parliament when the lords debate the bill granting the Darlrymple family the remedy of legitimacy. Margaret stays with her father at Parford Manor, pretending to be a nurse so she can spy on Ash and document his failings, demonstrating that he's unfit to manage the estate and thus tilting the odds of her brothers' winning the debate in Parliament in their favor.

Margaret is predisposed to hate Ash on sight, but she soon finds out that it's impossible to not like him. There's just something about him. It isn't his looks, his money or, as she calls it, his cheerful ruthlessness. It's the way he makes people feel they matter regardless of who they are. And Ash makes Margaret feel she matters from the start, when he thinks she's a mere servant. As they spend more time together and she learns his secrets, understanding that there's more than simple revenge behind his actions, a bond of trust and intimacy (of souls, not bodies) is formed between them. Torn between that newfound bond and her loyalty to her brothers, Margaret tries to protect both, but she knows she'll have to sacrifice one to save the other in the end. The question is, which one will it be?

This book had me engaged from beginning to end. I loved both Ash and Margaret: I wanted to be her and marry him. The conflict in their relationship came from the situation they found themselves in, not from any dysfunctional trait they might have as characters - like fear of abandonment or commitment, for example. Family, honor, loyalty, betrayal and forgiveness were at the core of this story and Ms. Milan has done an excellent job weaving those elements into Ash and Margaret's relationship. I especially liked the way Ms. Milan hasn't fallen into clichés, avoiding some of the well-travelled paths in Romancelandia. Without giving away any spoilers, there was a much-anticipated scene where Ash's reaction caught me completely by surprise. A very pleasant surprise, I'm happy to say. I've read that scene - or the basics of it - in many books before and I was braced for what I "knew" it would happen. Well, I was kindly reminded that I "know" nothing. :)

I have to finish this review admitting that this book made me cry. I didn't want to, but I couldn't hold back the tears near the end of it. What can I say? That only happens when I'm really invested in a story, and Ms. Milan's beautiful writing had me enthralled from the first chapter to the epilogue.

Final verdict: It's a keeper!

Note: I received this eARC from Harlequin via NetGalley. That had no influence on my review/rating.(less)

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Apr 08, 2012 BarkLessWagMore rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: audiobook, romance

4 1/2

Margaret wanted to despise Ash Turner. He had exposed her father’s bigamy, ruined her mother’s reputation, made her and her brother’s bastards and through legal machinations was attempting to inherit everything that belonged to her family. But Ash Turner wasn’t at all who she expected when he shows up to inspect the holdings. He’s handsome and amiable and quickly charms the staff. He seems to truly care about the people and the holdings and may possibly make a better duke than her own fathe...more 4 1/2

Margaret wanted to despise Ash Turner. He had exposed her father’s bigamy, ruined her mother’s reputation, made her and her brother’s bastards and through legal machinations was attempting to inherit everything that belonged to her family. But Ash Turner wasn’t at all who she expected when he shows up to inspect the holdings. He’s handsome and amiable and quickly charms the staff. He seems to truly care about the people and the holdings and may possibly make a better duke than her own father, much to Margaret’s dismay.

“One thing was for certain. Ash Turner was going to be a damn nuisance.”

Margaret is torn. She stayed behind, posing as a nursemaid to the ailing duke in order to keep him safe and also to spy on Ash and report all of his failings back to her brothers who are attempting to get reinstated as legitimate heirs with a case in parliament. But Ash isn’t nearly as awful as she suspected. He’s kind, level headed, very business savvy and he ignites a longing in her she desperately attempts to keep at bay. She’s lying to him after all and considering deceiving him in the worst way when he spills a very private secret about himself. The more time they spend together the more difficult it is for her to tell him the truth.

This was a fabulous love story, developed well with strong characterization and beautifully done sexual tension. At first I was all set to dislike Ash. After all, this is a guy who swoops in and basically takes over an estate booting out another family without a second thought to any innocent lives involved, all so he can seek revenge and lavish his brothers with luxury (brothers who don’t even want it). And right off the bat, he spies a beautiful maid and declares her his before they’ve even had a conversation. What a jerk, right? But he’s not a jerk as I quickly discovered. He has layers and reasons for behaving the way he does and I warmed up to him fast. Who wouldn’t love a guy with a great sense of humor and a sense of dogged devotion to those he loves?

Margaret, perhaps?

“I have no wish to be your sordid love slave!”

She is an equally likable and well developed character, with some past hurts that help to round out her character and her own fierce sense of devotion to those she loves. She eventually gets to the point where she doesn’t know who to trust anymore. I really did feel for her and admired her loyalty to her family even when I wanted to scream “Tell him the freaking truth, already!” But she couldn’t and it was as frustrating for me as it was for her.

I have a few minor complaints. There were loose ends left dangling regarding Ash’s relationship with his brothers so I didn’t feel a complete sense of closure there. That bugged me. I also wanted to know more about Mark’s childhood but maybe that was done purposefully so the author could keep us panting for their books? I don’t know but she’s suckered me into wanting to read them. Also, because I am no expert on heirs, holdings, dukedom’s and all that jazz I was a little lost as to how the conclusion worked itself out. It seemed to come to quick and tidy after the big build-up but what do I know? Other than those minor nits I found this a thoroughly engaging and charming romance.(less)

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Jan 27, 2011 KatLynne rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: g-historical-romance, smokin-hot-steamy, kindle-lendable, 2011-reads, part-of-a-series

This is my second book by Courtney Milan and I really enjoyed this story. This author has a definite talent and I love how she incorporates the unusual in her stories and makes it work so well.

I loved the hero, Ash Turner. He is one of those men just oozing with that sizzling sex appeal that draws you in making you love him. But my love for him was not just his charismatic appeal. I liked his character ...he is strong, intelligent, honorable, resilient and protective of those he loves. And whil...more This is my second book by Courtney Milan and I really enjoyed this story. This author has a definite talent and I love how she incorporates the unusual in her stories and makes it work so well.

I loved the hero, Ash Turner. He is one of those men just oozing with that sizzling sex appeal that draws you in making you love him. But my love for him was not just his charismatic appeal. I liked his character ...he is strong, intelligent, honorable, resilient and protective of those he loves. And while hiding a long held secret we see a vulnerable side that appealed to me. Still suffering from painful events from his childhood, he is haunted by memories and relentlessly seeks revenge from the one man who hurt his family.

Lady Anna Margaret Dalrymple is the kind of heroine I like…intelligent, strong and fierce in her loyalty to those she loves. You can count on her to do what’s right, even if it causes her much pain and heartache. Caught in the web of her father’s lies and Ash’s revenge, I admired her strength amidst so much personal pain and despair.

But I do not wish to convey that this story is all about hatred, revenge and despair. This is an amazing story full of passion, tenderness, strong sensual desire, longing, and hope. And as this story unveiled their deepest desires and fears, I found myself saying, “well done” Courtney Milan for another wonderful romance.

*****************Spoiler Alert*************************************

One of my favorite quotes

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Mar 10, 2011 Rane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: victorian-romance, keeper

When I sit down with a Courtney Milan book it’s like I’m in for a seven-course meal, with a deep romance, drama, humor, angst, an excellent plot and two amazing leads. Milan expands and weaves her novel to just pull the reader deeply into the story and lives of her characters that leaves you wanting to reach the end and at the same time never wanting it to end.

Ash Turner has long overdue payback on his mind, and with his plan brought into motion, he’s out to finally take claim after the suffe...more When I sit down with a Courtney Milan book it’s like I’m in for a seven-course meal, with a deep romance, drama, humor, angst, an excellent plot and two amazing leads. Milan expands and weaves her novel to just pull the reader deeply into the story and lives of her characters that leaves you wanting to reach the end and at the same time never wanting it to end.

Ash Turner has long overdue payback on his mind, and with his plan brought into motion, he’s out to finally take claim after the suffering he and is family have gone through by the hands of the Duke of Parford, a long relation cousin. Ash proves to the courts the Duke is an bigamist, whom marry in haste his mistress and never had the marriage annulled. Now his children of he had from his second “marriage” are consisted illegitimate and are unable to inherit, but that leaves Ash the new heir to become to next Duke of Parford.

Of course the Duke’s illegitimate children are going to take this laying down. After losing everything from their titles to their so called “friends” their out to prove Ash is unfit to take over the title of Duke. As the two sons of the Duke ready themselves for the upcoming battle in Parliament to have their bill overturned, their sister Margaret Dalrymple stays behind at the Parford Manor in order to nurse her sick father and play the spy to find any dirt on Ash.

From their first meeting a spark goes off between the two, with Ash determined to win Margaret for himself and Margaret trying to hold on to the hate she has for the man whom ruined her and her family’s lives, as both begin to know one another secrets that could harm either of them, only bind them closer together as they both reach a conclusion either of them expected to face.

My first impression of this book went quickly out the window by just the first few pages. Many of my impression and what I thought this book would be about quickly follow suit out the window. As I was pulled into this book. Instead of having to deal with a man whom would ruin lives of others to get his way,bent on payback at any cost, we’re are given an amazing character of Ash whom is honorable, funny, and determined to help and care for his remaining family who holds a few harsh and sad secrets close to his heart, but doesn’t let that stop him from making something of himself. Ash won me over by his so called ”cheerfully ruthlessness” Ash never act what you would think or come to think a hero would act like. He was always clear about what he wanted and was driven to see it through. Ash easily won and broke my heart when it’s reviled about his secret that even his own brothers didn’t know about. Ash feels a great guilt after he left his bothers Mark and Smite to make his fortune, and later his brother prove to him that their going to stand behind him through thick and thin - this is a driving force behind much of his actions and later by the instinct that drives him is also makes him see things from a different POV,

Margaret also threw out any impression I might have had of her, instead of being bitter, she was more hurt by the actions of her father and the pain is caused her beloved mother. Margaret also surprises everyone by her actions, when she learns of Ash secret, instead of selling him out, she sets out to help him even at the cost of trying to win the bill. Margaret in many ways wants to play fair and prove she and her brothers can regain what they lost. Margaret believes in honor even more so then her so-called family. Sometimes I wanted to shake her to open her eyes but in the end she loved her family and that made her a stronger character in my eyes, even when things turn against her, she fights the tide to do what she feels in her heart is the right thing and be with Ash.

The dramatic between Margaret and Ash were always at a sort of balance with their odds always coming out even. Their relationship was so time and true with nothing being assumed. Margaret and Ash’s grow and become the strength both later rely on to pull them through the trouble times they must face.

The beauty of the story is CM never once went back to some time and true plot seen time and again in other books, she always held this reader spellbound with her twists and surprises that made this book truly magical and original.

Courtney Milan did it again with her amazing writing ability and Unveiled just made me a happy romance reader, through and through. I look eagerly forward to Ash’s brothers’ stories with Mark believing greatly in chastity and Smite being a genius in his own right. Unveiled is beautiful romance that everyone should pick up and lose themselves in.(less)

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Jul 29, 2012 TJ rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, own-or-have-a-copy

4.5/5.0

Courtney Milan is quickly becoming an all-time favorite HR author for me and "Unveiled" is the perfect example as to why. The characters of Ash Turner and Lady Margaret are two of the most endearing, yet believable, honorable yet torn characters on page today. The story is engaging with twists and turns one never expects - especially the big one at the end! The only glitch for me was the "from the moment he saw her he knew he would seduce her" aspect.. it just didn't fit with his otherwis...more

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May 26, 2012 Mimi Smith rated it 5 of 5 stars

Recommended to Mimi by: Ana Smith

5 stars

“They want a woman who is a canvas, white and empty. Standing still, existing for no other purpose than to serve as a mute object onto which they can paint their own hopes and desires. They want their brides veiled. They want a demure, blank space they can fill with whatever they desire.”

“Miss Lowell, you magnificent creature, I want you to paint your own canvas. I want you to unveil yourself.”

Wow! This book was much more captivating than I'd thought it would be. I loved it! So many than...more

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Jan 02, 2012 Jess the Romanceaholic rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, netgalley, regency-romance, revenge-plot, 2011-read, mental-deficiency-or-disorder, family-issues, tortured-hero, tortured-heroine, hero-in-pursuit, secret-identity, historical-experienced-heroine, favorite-heroes

I couldn't come up with a synopsis that didn't contain spoilers, and since this book isn't out yet, I'll begin with the official blurb:
Ash Turner has waited a lifetime to seek revenge on the man who ruined his family—and now the time for justice has arrived. At Parford Manor, he intends to take his place as the rightful heir to the dukedom and settle an old score with the current duke once and for all. But instead he finds himself drawn to a tempting beauty who has the power to undo all his drea...more I couldn't come up with a synopsis that didn't contain spoilers, and since this book isn't out yet, I'll begin with the official blurb:
Ash Turner has waited a lifetime to seek revenge on the man who ruined his family—and now the time for justice has arrived. At Parford Manor, he intends to take his place as the rightful heir to the dukedom and settle an old score with the current duke once and for all. But instead he finds himself drawn to a tempting beauty who has the power to undo all his dreams of vengeance…

Lady Margaret knows she should despise the man who's stolen her fortune and her father's legacy—the man she's been ordered to spy on in the guise of a nurse. Yet the more she learns about the new duke, the less she can resist his smoldering appeal. Soon Margaret and Ash find themselves torn between old loyalties—and the tantalizing promise of passion….

What worked for me:
* Ash is now positively one of my favorite historical heroes. He's alpha without being brutish, he's talented without being perfect, and he's arrogant without being cruel. Above all, however, he felt real. He loves his brothers dearly and wants nothing in the world more than their happiness. While it's true he has an unfortunate tendency to trample over those who come between him and that goal, it's done more out of a sort of tunnel-vision rather than deliberate disregard for others.

* I love stories where the hero is the one pursuing the heroine, rather than the other way around.

* I really love the revenge plot, and how what originally seems to be the perfect revenge in the beginning turns sour as Ash slowly begins to comprehend what his actions have truly done to others.

* I also loved how Margaret was forced to examine her previous actions and beliefs in regards to society in general. Her being shown how fickle society really could be, as well as how servants are human and are just as important as their "betters" was well done I think.

* The last conversation that Margaret has with her father in this book literally had me cheering.

What didn't work for me:
* We never really got any history as to what happened to Smite and Mark while Ash was in India, and there was no real resolution between the brothers. I am desperately hoping that this is the start of a new series, however, because I'm greatly intrigued by both of Ash's brothers.

When rating a book, I think about many things. The writing style, the storyline, the depth of the characters, and of course, the overall enjoyability of the read. I'm very happy to say that the first three factors were very well done, and as for enjoyability? Well, I simply couldn't put it down and I closed the book with a smile on my face. A very solid 5/5 Stars.(less)

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Jul 23, 2012 Carol *Young at Heart Oldie* rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: stellar-5-star-books

This is only the second book I’ve read by Courtney Milan but she has already become an auto-buy author.

I was totally captivated by Unveiled. It is original, beautifully written, with finely crafted characters and a tender love story.

How I imagined Parford House, Somerset

He wasn’t supposed to be handsome. He wasn’t supposed to be human. He wasn’t supposed to have any good qualities at all.

Ash totally captured my heart with his charm, kindness and sincerity. I love his innate ability to understan...more

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Feb 06, 2011 Diana rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance-historical

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Since I didn't have much fun with this book and every review I've read takes it VERY SERIOUSLY, I may as well have fun with my comments. Random things that I did not buy or caused my brow to scrunch up, in no particular order.

* Ash is the poster boy for the Fated Mate/Bonded Male/Destined Lover who won't take no for an answer made famous by Stephanie Laurens and Christine Feehan. The opressive, stalkery FM/BM/DL is unfortunately as common as mud in paranormals and only a few authors are getting...more Since I didn't have much fun with this book and every review I've read takes it VERY SERIOUSLY, I may as well have fun with my comments. Random things that I did not buy or caused my brow to scrunch up, in no particular order.

* Ash is the poster boy for the Fated Mate/Bonded Male/Destined Lover who won't take no for an answer made famous by Stephanie Laurens and Christine Feehan. The opressive, stalkery FM/BM/DL is unfortunately as common as mud in paranormals and only a few authors are getting it right. This is the reason I stopped reading Laurens.
* Margaret is the poster girl for the self-sacrificing, doormat sister who doesn't question that the responsibility to save her abusive father and selfish brothers is all hers. (Yes, they dump on her in the end - again - after all that futile selfless sacrificing.)
* So far these are characters straight out of the romance novel central casting office.
* Ash stalks Margaret, believing she is a servant. Margaret fends off Ash's advances in the snotty way of 19th century noble ladies because she is, duh, a noble lady masquerading as a servant. Ash, whom we are told ad nauseum has instincts, never questions a servant's giving him lip. She keeps forgetting to stay in character.
* Ash's younger Oxford educated brother says, "Don't do anything I wouldn't do." In 1836.
* When I felt that it was time to wrap this thing up Kindle told me I was 75% finished. At this point, the lovers separate, all hope is lost and we are thrown into page after page after page to wrap up that pesky inheritance/bastardization situation during which time the lovers are APART. Skim, skim, skim.
* The prose is fine, some of it lovely even. I felt as if the well-crafted sentence took precedence over the emotion the author was describing. This was my takeaway. Lyrically described passion and I didn't feel a damn thing. When I'm pulled out of the story to admire a nice simile or poetic metaphor, well, I'm pulled out of the story.

This book has gotten such positive buzz. Odd woman out here. I tried to enjoy it as if it were the Great American Romance Novel. For all the "original" and "different" promised, I found a cache of cliches.

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Jan 13, 2013 Jana rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

I am into circles. I love them because they are full, neverending, they are frightening and because I know that everything comes back, it goes around, comes around, you have to finish what you've been doing because the full spin will make you dizzy, sooner or later, but you will feel dizzy.

So, I was thinking about my tattoos for a long time. I am 30, beyond the age to think that wings animals on my shoulder are cute. Bah. Luckily, when I was younger I was broke enough so I wasn't able to pin my...more

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Feb 17, 2011 chanceofbooks rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Fans of: Tess Dare, Elizabeth Hoyt, Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, Zoe Archer

Shelves: 2011-keepers, top-100, 2011-read

Courtney Milan is the next superstar of historical romance, and this is her breakout book. Her first two books were innovative, intelligent, and deeply emotional and are also on my keeper shelf, but this book is something truly special. Milan offers a unique voice to the genre--deeply emotional writing that also stays true to deep POV with rich characterization and innovative plots. With the rise of the super-sexy historical, this book is a great middle ground with the intelligent plot and chara...more

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May 24, 2012 Jacob Proffitt rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, owned, steamy

I really enjoyed this romance novel.

Ash Turner is a self-made man, driven by a desire to give his brothers more than he had. He has made his fortune by the beginning of the book but feels remorse for having functionally abandoned his brothers for years while doing so. At least he was able to extract revenge on the man who might have saved his sister when she needed medical aid Ash hadn't the funds to provide. Ash has found proof that Lord Dalrymple had married a mistress in his youth and had put...more I really enjoyed this romance novel.

Ash Turner is a self-made man, driven by a desire to give his brothers more than he had. He has made his fortune by the beginning of the book but feels remorse for having functionally abandoned his brothers for years while doing so. At least he was able to extract revenge on the man who might have saved his sister when she needed medical aid Ash hadn't the funds to provide. Ash has found proof that Lord Dalrymple had married a mistress in his youth and had put her aside quietly rather than go through the humiliating mess of securing an actual divorce. Since Dalrymple's sons (by the society lady he later married, making him a bigamist and his two sons and daughter officially illegitimate) have tormented Ash's brothers, Ash has no qualms bringing the past to light and, as Dalrymple's distant relation, becoming heir now that Dalrymple's sons are proven bastards (in the literal, as well as figurative, sense).

Margaret Dalrymple has just lost everything. She has been proven a bastard along with her brothers and her fall from society's grace has been painful. She agrees to stay with her father as a nurse while Ash visits the estate. She keeps her identity "secret" (from Ash, it's not like the servants don't know) and agrees to spy for her brothers who are embroiled in legal action trying to get themselves reinstated as legitimate by act of parliament. They need any information they can use to sway the House of Lords who, after all, aren't likely to want a man of trade to join their ranks.

However unlikely the premise, the characters in this book really sparkled, but in a literary, effervescent way. Not literally. Their skins weren't like diamonds or anything. THEY JUST SPARKLED, DAMMIT! I liked Ash and his struggle to build a relationship with his estranged brothers was endearing. There's a lot standing in the way of Ash and Margaret getting together. The magic of the book is not just that they manage to overcome these obstacles (duh, it's a romance novel) but in how they end up doing so in such a way as to show how truly made for each other they are.

A final note: this book is on the high end of my steamy scale with one or two pretty graphic sex scenes and a couple sensual interludes. That's likely on the lower end of most people's scale. If the story wasn't so outstanding I doubt I'd pursue the rest of the series (it looks like a book per brother). As it stands, I'll just have to grin and bear it. Uh, maybe grin was the wrong word, there...(less)

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Feb 23, 2012 Francesca the Fierce ~Eyelet Ecstasy~ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-read-2011, genre-historical, read-audio-books, series-turner

This review was posted at Under The Covers

Ash, Mark and Smite Turner were the victims of other people's greed from the time they were young. Their title and their money was basically taken away after their father's death, their mother went insane.

Ash Turner made something of himself by way of commerce. He traveled to India, he learned business, he did what he had to do. Then he came back for his brothers.

Now there's a way for him to reclaim the dukedom that should be his and he's taking it. He's...more

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Feb 24, 2011 Sophia (FV) rated it 5 of 5 stars

They say revenge is a dish best served cold. No one understands and executes this idea better than Ash Turner. Years ago he showed up on the doorstep of a distant cousin, begging for help for his family. He was ridiculed and turned away. Now a successful businessman he has found a way to have revenge on the man that ruined his family all those years ago by not only stealing the dukedom from him but taking his place as the rightful heir. Unfortunately in his single-minded quest for revenge, he di...more They say revenge is a dish best served cold. No one understands and executes this idea better than Ash Turner. Years ago he showed up on the doorstep of a distant cousin, begging for help for his family. He was ridiculed and turned away. Now a successful businessman he has found a way to have revenge on the man that ruined his family all those years ago by not only stealing the dukedom from him but taking his place as the rightful heir. Unfortunately in his single-minded quest for revenge, he didn’t take into consideration the innocent people that would be affected by his actions.

Lady Margaret’s privileged life as she’s known it has been ruined. Because of Ash Turner’s actions her father has lost his title and as well as his fortune and she has been shunned by polite society. Now her family has ordered her to pose as the Duke’s nurse in order to spy on Ash as her brothers try to figure a way to reclaim their family fortune. She has every reason to despise Ash but the more time she spends with him, she begins to see things in a different light. After some time under the same roof with him, not only does she no longer despise him, she may have fallen in love.

Unveiled is the third book I’ve read by Courtney Milan and I have officially put this author on my ‘will-devour-anything-she-writes’ shelf. Ms. Milan’s voice in the historical romance genre is absolutely delightful and Unveiled is so beautifully written that I found myself completely enthralled from beginning to end. It was a true pleasure reading this story and I was surprised to realize that I actually missed the characters once I was finished reading.

Courtney Milan weaves her tale and slowly strips away the layers of her characters to reveal people that are deep and complex, flawed but very likable. Ash and Margaret both have very valid points of view on the very serious matters at hand and Courtney Milan does a wonderful job at presenting both sides of the story quite convincingly.

I loved that although Ash is the type of man that is accustomed being in charge he never pushes Margaret in his pursuit of her heart. He builds her up, encourages her and wants her to come to him on her terms not his. He was a wonderfully romantic hero and he wants Margaret regardless of her class, title etc., he simply wants her as she is.

Margaret, having every reason to hate Ash is eventually able to see beyond the title, money and personal loss. With time she is able to see her situation from all sides and what she truly wants is for all parties to be happy, cared for and provided for even if it means she must make the sacrifices.

Unveiled is a wonderful historical romance. If you have not read it, you need to put this on the top of your list.

Favorite Quote:

“I know you the way I’ve learned everything. I know your taste. I know your scent. I know the shape of you in my hands. I know the flash of your eyes when you’re angry, and the melody of your laughter. Don’t tell me I don’t know you. You’re a woman.” His voice dropped. “And you’re mine.”(less)

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Nov 27, 2010 Diana~ rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, author-courtney-milan, arc-galley, regency-romance

I have to say, Courney Milan did an excellent job making the perfect hero in her newest installment, Unveiled! Everything I thought Ash would become as a character, was entirely different as to how he truly became later in the book. He was sweet, loveable, protective, and very endearing-- even if some of the things that he did made me want to smack him for hurting Margaret. And Margaret, oh she was a strong heroine all right. From the very beginning, she was smart, full of wit and a backbone; wh...more I have to say, Courney Milan did an excellent job making the perfect hero in her newest installment, Unveiled! Everything I thought Ash would become as a character, was entirely different as to how he truly became later in the book. He was sweet, loveable, protective, and very endearing-- even if some of the things that he did made me want to smack him for hurting Margaret. And Margaret, oh she was a strong heroine all right. From the very beginning, she was smart, full of wit and a backbone; which I absolutely adore about her! The story began with the two as enemies but slowly and surely, they both begin to fall in love with one another.

As for the secret, I felt as if the "lie" would eventually lead to many heartbreaks along the way. But... Ash proved me wrong, again. He actually embraced it and didn't blame her?! Which I thought was very sweet and touching. See how different he is from other males during that era? Instead, he blamed Margaret's brothers because they were the ones who left her alone and unprotected! And, I couldn't possibly agree with more. As for others characters in the book, I also really liked Ash's younger brother Mark. He was so awkwardly innocent and very wicked at the same time. Just read the book and find out why. ;)

Now, let's talk about the romance! It was rather very cute and very sexy at the same time. I can honestly say that Ash is an Alpha/Beta male who could be very sweet to his lady love one moment, and yet very possesive the next. I loved the forbbiden romance feeling that these two characters have for one another because of that fact that they can never be together... or can they? Even though Ash didn't realize she was supposedly a daughter of his enemy until halfway through the book, my heart broke for Margaret because she was stuck in a situation that she didn't want to be in. She never meant to fall in love with him, but it was just too great to stop. In the end, there would be only two choices that she could make: Her family or her love for Ash?

Overall, I loved the ending for this book because it was very heart-warming... and sweet! The characters were great, the romance was lovely, and I even forgave Margaret's brother (well one of them anyway) in the end. This was truly another great book by Courney Milan ever since Proof By Seduction. I will definitely be buying my own copy once this is published!(less)

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Feb 05, 2011 Karla rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Wow, this was a great historical romance!

Courtney Milan presented us with a great plot and well developed characters. The conflict for the story arose, very naturally, from the situation the characters found themselves in. It was about family, loyalty, betrayal and being who you are. I'm especially pleased at the way she avoided cliches. There were several instances when a lesser author would have had her characters resort to childish, peevish actions. (We've all read those books.) But her char...more

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Aug 05, 2012 Zumbagirl rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, amazing-dialogue, beautifully-written, brothers, childhood-tragedy, enemies-to-lovers, favorite-couple, hero-adores-heroine, hero-with-disability-mental-imbalan, hidden-identity, impossible-problem, love-or-lust-at-first-sight, secrets, self-made-man, sweet-and-steamy-romance, favorite-hero, favorite-heroine

Amazing and I loved it! Can't write much of a review just yet. Courtney Milan has such a beautiful way of writing; I'm in awe of her talent! Wow, Ash was my favorite hero - self-made man, in love with her at first sight, in relentless pursuit of her, made her feel special, wanted and loved - Margaret was one lucky lady. Both of them were loyal to a fault and dedicated to their ideals. Very strong characters and one of the best couples in Romancelandia:)

I have to digest this some more...

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Mar 04, 2013 LittleAsian Sweatshop rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance-regency

I stumbled upon "Unveiled" when it popped up as a recommendation. At first, I was skeptical, "oh, this is going to be a classic 'Grand Misunderstanding' plotline", I thought to myself, even as I settled down for a read (I was looking for something easy and mindless to decompress).

But then I started reading, and the characters were so...crisp and clear, that I totally forgot my original misgivings. And then, the author surprised me with what she did next with the story and the characters! No spoi...more

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Feb 12, 2013 Rachel rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction

I really liked the premise of the book. To have the heroine's father caught in bigamy, thus making his children bastards and unable to inherit his title, or wealth.
My feelings for the father: He was a nasty piece of work and I was all to glad to see him die knowing that he had been defeated!
My feelings for Ash: Mixed. He was protrayed as mostly good, but I didn't get how is backstory had created who he was today.
My feelings for Ash's brothers: I liked Mark but think that Smite must have the be...more

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Jan 09, 2013 Maria rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance-or-stand-alone-love-story, historical-romance

As much as I profess to dislike historical romance, I'm a sucker for books with good reviews, and Milan's works seem to garner more than plenty of good reviews, deservedly I should add. Moreover, while the battle for a Dukedom is the main plot, Unveiled doesn't really focus on societal pressures against a pairing between the working class and the upper class. In fact, right from the beginning, Ash tromps all over that societal etiquette crap that drives me insane. Yep, I'm definitely grateful fo...more As much as I profess to dislike historical romance, I'm a sucker for books with good reviews, and Milan's works seem to garner more than plenty of good reviews, deservedly I should add. Moreover, while the battle for a Dukedom is the main plot, Unveiled doesn't really focus on societal pressures against a pairing between the working class and the upper class. In fact, right from the beginning, Ash tromps all over that societal etiquette crap that drives me insane. Yep, I'm definitely grateful for the progress that has occurred with regards to the disparity between how men and women are treated. And, yep, I realize that most HRs are reproducing historically accurate societal norms of the Victorian age. It tends to bother me anyways.

Moving on to an actual book review: this book is soooo good and reminds me why I unashamedly adore Romance books. Emotional conflicts are the driving force of romance plots, and I have been starving for some realistic, touch-feely, gooey stories. By realistic, I mean not obtuse but layered and subtle portrayals of a character's inner conflict. And by gooey, I mean stories where I can fully sympathize if not empathize with the characters. The stories I have been reading recently are heavily driven by events and the definitive actions of the characters, while any deep and satisfying exploration of the characters thoughts and emotional reactions take more of an aside aspect to be dealt with after they clean up all the crap that's hit the fan. To be fair, it just comes with the different genres. In UF, the plot tends to be relatively fast-paced and the MCs usually deal with dangerous curve balls within a short time period; thus not allowing much "gooey-ness." The core ingredients of a Romance are the inner conflicts and personalities of the characters, and it's wonderful to see how they mix in Milan's book.

Okay, yeah I'll get on with the book now for reals: I really like Ash. His vulnerable moments make me go all teary-eyed. He's so open and straightforward most of the time. He really brightens what could have been a dark and gloomy tale about revenge. Oh sure, his love for his brothers is almost sickeningly sweet, yet I enjoy how Milan portrays the relationship between the brothers. Though Ash cares so much for both Mark and Smite, he doesn't really know them--and they don't know about his great weakness (I won't give it away). That distinction is perhaps the most interesting part of the book for me.

I also like Margaret's determination and loyalty. I like that the book is half about Margaret's discovery of her inner strength, while the other half is about Ash's revenge, which resolves in a not annoying way thankfully.

Overall, I enjoyed the story, and all I can think of now is getting my hands on the second book and Mark's story Unclaimed. Thank you Milan for the great read!(less)

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Dec 23, 2012 Maggie rated it 5 of 5 stars

If you're looking for a historical romance that cracks the mold a bit in all the best ways, read on.

I've been reading romance novels since I was a young teenager and lately I've found it difficult to find new authors that interest me, and my old standbys are wonderful but can't churn out a new book every week or so to appease my thirst for reading.

I started this series a little out of order with Unlocked, simply because Courtney Milan has popped up on my "Recommended" list on Amazon more than on...more If you're looking for a historical romance that cracks the mold a bit in all the best ways, read on.

I've been reading romance novels since I was a young teenager and lately I've found it difficult to find new authors that interest me, and my old standbys are wonderful but can't churn out a new book every week or so to appease my thirst for reading.

I started this series a little out of order with Unlocked, simply because Courtney Milan has popped up on my "Recommended" list on Amazon more than once, and the book was inexpensive. After reading Unlocked, I've gone back and added this author's other books to my Wish List--and just read Unveiled, the first in the series.

I'll discuss some of my favorite points while trying to avoid spoilers. Do you ever start a book WAITING to be disappointed? The description of this book led me to that point--Ash Turner is a man essentially stealing a dukedom from a family who once wronged his and a bitter Lady Margaret has been tasked with spying on him in order to find a weakness to exploit. Do either of these people sound particularly likable? But within the first pages I found they both had an interesting appeal in how imperfect they are. Both are acting in their families' interests and neither of them is cruel. Margaret's long-held beliefs in class distinctions is carefully explored as she is taught a new perspective. The secret Ash is keeping from the people around him is described and handled extraordinarily well by the author. I was completely lost in this world as I read.

This part may have a BIT of a spoiler in it, but read on and I'll try to be vague. Remember every other romance novel you've ever read, where one of the main characters is forced to reveal a secret they've deliberately kept from the other, after which the OTHER main character decides this is a personal betrayal for the sake of betrayal and immediately believes the worst? IMAGINE MY DELIGHT WHEN THIS DIDN'T HAPPEN. The secret is revealed, feelings are hurt, both admit their culpability to the circumstances leading up to this point, and they both immediately insist the other had only the best intentions.

I'm hooked.

Interesting family dynamics in the Turner family ... I'm starting Book #2 (Unclaimed) right this minute.(less)

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Oct 29, 2012 Jennifer rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle, read-in-1-sitting, romance, period

Having already read book 2 in the series: Unclaimed, and liking it but not feeling too moved by it, I was convinced to go back and read another of Milan's books - this one - after reading a novella by her The Governess Affair, which was actually pretty damn near perfect. This one certainly did not disappoint either!

In all of the books I have read by her, Milan has a unique and powerful ability to put the reader into her characters' minds, to plunge us deep into their emotional turmoil. The diffe...more Having already read book 2 in the series: Unclaimed, and liking it but not feeling too moved by it, I was convinced to go back and read another of Milan's books - this one - after reading a novella by her The Governess Affair, which was actually pretty damn near perfect. This one certainly did not disappoint either!

In all of the books I have read by her, Milan has a unique and powerful ability to put the reader into her characters' minds, to plunge us deep into their emotional turmoil. The difference for me with this book was, I identified more strongly with the characters, so I was more moved by their story.

Ash Turner is the oldest of the Turner brothers, who left his broken home at the age of 14 to seek his fortune in India, and support his family. Because of the abuse his siblings continued to suffer in his absence, he is driven by a need to protect them and provide for them - to exact revenge on anyone who ever hurts them. Including - the entire Dalrymple family, almost all of whom have personally harmed on of his brothers. But what Ash never considered is the Dalrymple sister, Margaret - and how his actions would impact her.

When we start the novel, Ash has convinced Parliament to discredit the Duke of Parford's marriage and caused all of the Dalrymple children to become bastards. Margaret, the only sister, has decided to stay at Parford to watch over her father and attempt to discredit Ash as the heir to the title - as Parliament will soon decide who inherits. Ash is a powerfully charismatic man, who invariably trusts his instincts. Upon his first sight of Margaret, he knows that she belongs to him. Over time, he comes to realize that he wants her with him forever. Margaret, on the other hand, hates Ash powerfully for what he has done to her family. It is only over time and with much interaction that she comes to see the man he is, and realize his motivation...

It is a bittersweet love story for these two, which definitely had me swept along the whole way. I adore how for Milan, the reveal of Margaret's identity is not even the climax of the book - rather the climax is ultimately when Ash and Margaret are able to fully communicate and understand together what their situation means to each of them, with all of the beauty and pain of that understanding. What could easily be melodrama and I'm sure it seems that way reading about it in a book review, was really masterfully done.

I am so glad I decided to read this book - I will definitely be looking for Unraveled next - the third brother Smite's story. Having met Smite in the other two books I know that his story will be a powerful one, he seems the most untouchable of the three Turner brothers, the most damaged by their abusive mother.(less)

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Aug 13, 2012 Miss rated it 5 of 5 stars

Okay guys, mark this date on your calenders. Today I, the goodreads user known as Miss Susan, discovered an alpha hero who I really properly like in precisely the manner the author wanted me to.

I know! I never thought this day would come either. And yet Ash Turner is the kind of charismatic authoritative male lead romance has been trying to sell me on for ages. Maybe it's because he isn't an asshole to the heroine? And when he screws up he apologizes and it's actually for the things he should b...more

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Jul 07, 2012 Sheyla rated it 4 of 5 stars

Ash Turner is seeking revenge. His distant cousin Lord Dalrymple, Duke of Parford Manor denied to help him, when poverty struck. He has been waiting for years to get the upper hand over the old bastard. Ash is able to prove that during his younger years the Duke married a woman and later on, he married a lady but he never annulled his first marriage. This made all his children from the second marriage bastards and unable to inherit.
Lady Anna Margaret has lost it all. Her name, her inheritance, h...more

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Jun 04, 2012 Janine rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, audiobooks

I really enjoyed this book. I thought that Rebecca De Leeuw did a great job with the narration. I did think the book was a bit depressing while Ash and Margaret struggled with their internal thoughts. Regardless, Ash is fantastic. He is a find man and sets the best example for his brothers. I like the sub-story of his relationship with his brothers and the family struggles with the Dalrymples.

I'm so glad that Margaret finally decided to take control of her life and the Duchy of Parford. She end...more

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Apr 09, 2012 Tzippy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Tzippy by: The Holy Terror

Shelves: historical-romance, i-will-go-down-with-this-ship, setting-england, i-own-kindle-version, yay-supporting-characters, reviewed, families, revenge, heartwarming, romance-is-main-plot, cheerfully-ruthless, my-favorite-protagonists, inspired-me-to-invent-a-shelf, era-victorian-england, respect-and-honesty-for-a-change

This was a pretty great love story which made my heart hurt, but in a good way.

The main characters were wonderful. "Cheerfully ruthless" was a bullseye description of Ash, and I loved him for it. (I may have a weakness for fictional characters who do awful things for the right reasons.) Although in some ways, he was just a little bit too perfect, which made me wary. As for Margaret, I loved her loyalty and her sense of right and wrong and how she always, always, always made the best choice she c...more

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Feb 06, 2012 Bookseller Cate rated it 4 of 5 stars

Who are you most loyal to? Do you trust them to return your loyalty? Who demands so much of your loyalty that you're willing to destroy someone else you love? Is there information which, on hearing, might cause you to remove your loyalty?

It's not always that the romance genre tackles weighty subjects, wanting to give their readers an escape from realty rather than a philosophical treatise, but Courtney Milan managed the job very well.

(view spoiler)...more Who are you most loyal to? Do you trust them to return your loyalty? Who demands so much of your loyalty that you're willing to destroy someone else you love? Is there information which, on hearing, might cause you to remove your loyalty?

It's not always that the romance genre tackles weighty subjects, wanting to give their readers an escape from realty rather than a philosophical treatise, but Courtney Milan managed the job very well.

(view spoiler)

Of course, my favourite character, despite all of this, must be Ash's younger brother, Mark, whose own novel, Unclaimed, I'm eager to read. (less)

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Jan 20, 2012 Ori rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, reviewed, romance

Normally, I don't read stories revolving around the vengeance trope. Romance novels usually come with a manageable dose of angst, but this trope doles it out by the truckful. Angst about whatever previous slight in an unfortunate past has led the protagonist down this dark path of avenging justice, angst about the unwitting innocents who must inevitably be trodden into the mud en route, and angst about betraying the person who is obviously the soulmate and redeemer of said protagonist but it mus...more

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