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The Restoration Series #3
Stealing Heaven
ABDUCTED BY GREED
Torn from her bed by an unknown abductor, heiress Gillian Forrester found herself on the way to Gretna Green and a forced marriage with a wastrel she despised. If she must choose between her life or her innocence, she would risk disaster itself to escape... and she did, only to lie unconscious on a country road, waiting for death, or for a rescuer.
RESCUED BY LOVE
Dante Tremaine, the "Rakehell Earl" of Morgan, was on the way to his ancestral home when he found an injured young woman --- and his destiny. The exquisite beauty had no memory of her identity, and any gentleman would scour the earth to find her family. But Dante was no gentleman, just a lord who wanted this lady. Was there honor in this rakehell earl... or just dangerous desire? Now, Gillian was at his mercy and at the mercy of a passion so towering it could easily rival heaven....
Torn from her bed by an unknown abductor, heiress Gillian Forrester found herself on the way to Gretna Green and a forced marriage with a wastrel she despised. If she must choose between her life or her innocence, she would risk disaster itself to escape... and she did, only to lie unconscious on a country road, waiting for death, or for a rescuer.
RESCUED BY LOVE
Dante Tremaine, the "Rakehell Earl" of Morgan, was on the way to his ancestral home when he found an injured young woman --- and his destiny. The exquisite beauty had no memory of her identity, and any gentleman would scour the earth to find her family. But Dante was no gentleman, just a lord who wanted this lady. Was there honor in this rakehell earl... or just dangerous desire? Now, Gillian was at his mercy and at the mercy of a passion so towering it could easily rival heaven....
- GenresHistorical Romance
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 1, 1996
About the author
Jaclyn Reding
23 books62 followersJaclyn Reding is the award-winning author of numerous historical and contemporary novels, including an Amazon.com #1 bestseller and a RITA award nominee. Since first publishing in 1993, Jaclyn has seen her stories translated into nearly a dozen languages around the world.
Jaclyn can usually be found at her home in New England, or Venice, Italy...or somewhere in between. Jaclyn loves hearing from readers and answers every letter personally.
Find her on FaceBook at:
http://www.facebook.com/jaclynreding....
Jaclyn can usually be found at her home in New England, or Venice, Italy...or somewhere in between. Jaclyn loves hearing from readers and answers every letter personally.
Find her on FaceBook at:
http://www.facebook.com/jaclynreding....
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 14, 2025
A beautifully written and richly detailed story with a lot of twists and intrigue. I loved Dante’s character development and his loyal friends, but my favourite character was Cassia, she was amazing.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
August 19, 2025
Wow, I thought the last two books I read of this series were wonderful, but this book is amazing. There is so much emotion from just about everyone. Some good and some really bad. Gillian Forrester is the youngest in a family with three brothers. She has been protective by her brothers and father. She is a bluestocking loving reading and music and plays several instruments. Even if she is naive about relationships, she is smart as a whip and not one to be thought a push over. She is kidnapped from her bed and home by a man she despises. Knowing she would rather be dead then forced to wed him, she almost gets her wish. While escaping she is injured and left to die, alone on the road with nothing on but her night rail and its freezing outside. Dante Tremain, known by the ton in London as “Rakehell Earl” is home from the exile the king put him on. He has lost his mother to the plague that spread across the country. Killing thousands. While in exile he has vowed to change and become the person his mother wanted him to be. When he finds Gillian, he is shocked, and worried about her. He feels an immediately attracted to her. Taking her to his estate to heal he plans to notify her family as soon as she awakes. Only problem is she doesn’t know who she is! Not even her name. From the hit on her head, she has lost her memory. As they spend time together Gillian knows the only person, she feels she can trust and feels safe with is Dante. Ah, this story has a ton of twist and turns, misunderstanding, underhanded people playing roles, plenty of secrets and many wonderful characters from some of the other books in the series. Don’t worry you will still love this story even if you haven’t read the others. The whole series is great, and Jaclyn has a way of making you feel like you are there, seeing and feeling what they are. Be sure and grab a copy and get started you're in for some surprises and tons of love. I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it. There are a couple of steamy scenes but perfect for this story.
August 15, 2025
A city and a court reviving after the plague was evicted.
A conniving jealous *itch plotting to mold her future as she pleases.
A Lady kidnapped from her bed in the middle of the night.
A notorious Earl exiled for that faux-pas too many, finally allowed to return home.
He finds her unconscious on the road to his country estate where she wakes up the next morning with her memory erased.
Gillian & Dante
Clever, pragmatic and a little sheltered – 3 older brothers, need I say more? – she’s the youngest in a close nit, politically powerful family, and the viper lives in their den.
He’s the rake ready to reform. Though far less scandalous than rumour made him out to be, he‘s well aware his reputation might cause more harm than good.
Attraction is instant, their chemistry chef’s kiss, but the slow burn strangers-to-lovers buildup worked beautifully for this story. Only a dash of steam near the end because D sticks to his plan, but quite a bit of kissing – he isn’t a saint after all.
I loved that D’s character gains depth as the story progresses, and that G’s amnesia isn’t the main focus. There’s all these intriguing small storylines – his daughter, his mother, his friends, the viper and her cronies, and even the plague – throughout, all merging towards the end and leading to an action-packed climax.
The story flows and takes you along, making it near impossible to put it down. It’s set during the reign of Charles II, and there’s a few cameos by the MCs from the previous books (his BFFs). No worries though if you haven’t read them, but they’re pretty brilliant – as is this one! – so why wouldn’t you? Previously released as 'The Restoration Series' , I have no idea if they changed, but I highly recommend (re)discovering them!
A conniving jealous *itch plotting to mold her future as she pleases.
A Lady kidnapped from her bed in the middle of the night.
A notorious Earl exiled for that faux-pas too many, finally allowed to return home.
He finds her unconscious on the road to his country estate where she wakes up the next morning with her memory erased.
Gillian & Dante
Clever, pragmatic and a little sheltered – 3 older brothers, need I say more? – she’s the youngest in a close nit, politically powerful family, and the viper lives in their den.
He’s the rake ready to reform. Though far less scandalous than rumour made him out to be, he‘s well aware his reputation might cause more harm than good.
Attraction is instant, their chemistry chef’s kiss, but the slow burn strangers-to-lovers buildup worked beautifully for this story. Only a dash of steam near the end because D sticks to his plan, but quite a bit of kissing – he isn’t a saint after all.
I loved that D’s character gains depth as the story progresses, and that G’s amnesia isn’t the main focus. There’s all these intriguing small storylines – his daughter, his mother, his friends, the viper and her cronies, and even the plague – throughout, all merging towards the end and leading to an action-packed climax.
The story flows and takes you along, making it near impossible to put it down. It’s set during the reign of Charles II, and there’s a few cameos by the MCs from the previous books (his BFFs). No worries though if you haven’t read them, but they’re pretty brilliant – as is this one! – so why wouldn’t you? Previously released as 'The Restoration Series' , I have no idea if they changed, but I highly recommend (re)discovering them!
August 19, 2025
Jaclyn Reding has done it again with the third book in her Merry Monarchs series—each story has been compelling and unique, and this one is no exception. Set in 1666, right after the Great Plague of London, the backdrop adds a fascinating historical layer that I really enjoyed.
Heiress Gillian Forrester’s story kicks off with a bang—she’s kidnapped by a man she despises, fights tooth and nail to escape, and somehow manages to get free. Unfortunately, she’s left injured and unconscious by the roadside. Enter Dante Tremaine, the notorious Earl of Morgan, returning to England after exile. When he finds Gillian, there’s an instant connection. He ensures she gets medical care, but here’s the twist—she has no memory of what happened or even who she is.
I was completely captivated by Dante and Gillian’s journey to uncover the truth about her kidnappers and reunite her with her family. But it’s not just that—this story is packed with so much more. Dante undergoes a transformation because of Gillian, and she’s this brilliant, driven woman who knows exactly what she wants—and what she wants is Dante.
This book is wickedly entertaining, filled with devious plots, past regrets, mysteries, amnesia, loyal friends, and plenty of unexpected twists and turns. I can’t recommend it enough. I’m already looking forward to the next adventure in the Merry Monarchs series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Heiress Gillian Forrester’s story kicks off with a bang—she’s kidnapped by a man she despises, fights tooth and nail to escape, and somehow manages to get free. Unfortunately, she’s left injured and unconscious by the roadside. Enter Dante Tremaine, the notorious Earl of Morgan, returning to England after exile. When he finds Gillian, there’s an instant connection. He ensures she gets medical care, but here’s the twist—she has no memory of what happened or even who she is.
I was completely captivated by Dante and Gillian’s journey to uncover the truth about her kidnappers and reunite her with her family. But it’s not just that—this story is packed with so much more. Dante undergoes a transformation because of Gillian, and she’s this brilliant, driven woman who knows exactly what she wants—and what she wants is Dante.
This book is wickedly entertaining, filled with devious plots, past regrets, mysteries, amnesia, loyal friends, and plenty of unexpected twists and turns. I can’t recommend it enough. I’m already looking forward to the next adventure in the Merry Monarchs series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2025
We have a rogue who recently returned to England and is rethinking his life choices! Dante Tremaine, third Earl of Morgan find Gilliam Forrester only daughter of a powerful Earl with three beloved older brothers! This story is different in that both her parents are alive! Her father is annoying and obtuse about what goes on in his own house!
Gilliam is kidnapped from her own bed at her home! Staged by a viper that will later be revealed!
Gilliam manages to escape her kidnappers but is injured and looses her memory!
Dante rescues her and for once in his Rakehell life he is pretty much a gentleman!
Gilliam’s father hired a bungling investigator that we never see the fruits of that labor!
Dante is reaping the sowing of some of his wild oats in human form! Gilliam is very forgiving and he is very different from his past!
But someone means Gilliam harm and the answer lies in her memory that is very slow in coming back!
I love how Dante friends are there for him and ride to his aid every single time!
Gilliam desperately needs her memory back because the kidnapper wants to silence her for good!
Was there ever a more rocky road to a HEA!? Bravo these characters are so vivid we need a glimpse into their future beyond the Epilogue!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gilliam is kidnapped from her own bed at her home! Staged by a viper that will later be revealed!
Gilliam manages to escape her kidnappers but is injured and looses her memory!
Dante rescues her and for once in his Rakehell life he is pretty much a gentleman!
Gilliam’s father hired a bungling investigator that we never see the fruits of that labor!
Dante is reaping the sowing of some of his wild oats in human form! Gilliam is very forgiving and he is very different from his past!
But someone means Gilliam harm and the answer lies in her memory that is very slow in coming back!
I love how Dante friends are there for him and ride to his aid every single time!
Gilliam desperately needs her memory back because the kidnapper wants to silence her for good!
Was there ever a more rocky road to a HEA!? Bravo these characters are so vivid we need a glimpse into their future beyond the Epilogue!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2025
Gillian and Dante
“Stealing Heaven” written by Jaclyn Reding is book three in her Merry Monarchs series. This historical romance is set in 1666 after the devastating plague and after King Charles II firmly reestablished the monarchy in England. The story begins with the kidnapping of Lady Gillian Forrester. She was left for dead when she tried to escape and was found by Dante Tremaine, the Rakehell Earl of Morgan. Dante was returning from France after an exile issued by the king. The story takes the reader on a merry ride with Gillian, now suffering from amnesia and Dante, who is trying to move on from his past. The attraction and chemistry is instant. The author did a great job creating these two main characters. I liked them both. Included in this story was intrigue, secrets, friendship, honor, the evolving feelings between Gillian and Dante, some steam, and the redemption of Dante. The plot flowed along nicely, and didn’t lag or stall at any point. Characters from previous installments in the series showed up in this story as Dante’s friends and loyal supporters who had his back. Even King Charles II had a few cameos! Well written and enjoyable, “Stealing Heaven” goes on my list of recommended books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“Stealing Heaven” written by Jaclyn Reding is book three in her Merry Monarchs series. This historical romance is set in 1666 after the devastating plague and after King Charles II firmly reestablished the monarchy in England. The story begins with the kidnapping of Lady Gillian Forrester. She was left for dead when she tried to escape and was found by Dante Tremaine, the Rakehell Earl of Morgan. Dante was returning from France after an exile issued by the king. The story takes the reader on a merry ride with Gillian, now suffering from amnesia and Dante, who is trying to move on from his past. The attraction and chemistry is instant. The author did a great job creating these two main characters. I liked them both. Included in this story was intrigue, secrets, friendship, honor, the evolving feelings between Gillian and Dante, some steam, and the redemption of Dante. The plot flowed along nicely, and didn’t lag or stall at any point. Characters from previous installments in the series showed up in this story as Dante’s friends and loyal supporters who had his back. Even King Charles II had a few cameos! Well written and enjoyable, “Stealing Heaven” goes on my list of recommended books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
August 22, 2025
Gillian was kidnapped and left for dead. Dante rescued her. When she regains consciousness, she has amnesia. Because of this, she has no knowledge of Dante's past. Overloaded with guilt, Dante is relieved to find someone like Gillian who is not going to judge him and helps him heal.
Dante tries to help Gillian put her life back together. Not only do they fall in love, but they also realize that her life is in danger. The story takes place in an earlier time period than most, and it makes lots of references to the plague, which I found interesting.
This historical romance has lots of drama and suspense along with the expected heat. The characters are well-developed and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dante tries to help Gillian put her life back together. Not only do they fall in love, but they also realize that her life is in danger. The story takes place in an earlier time period than most, and it makes lots of references to the plague, which I found interesting.
This historical romance has lots of drama and suspense along with the expected heat. The characters are well-developed and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2025
I don't often read this time period which featured the plague but it was interesting to learn more about it in this book. Gillian is kidnapped by a man who was her sister-in-law's lover and they planned to live on her dowry but she escapes and hits her head losing her memory when Dante finds her. It's a mystery discovering who she is and he needs his friends' assistance to solve it. I don't blame him for being leary of giving her back to her family after what happened especially when he knows she's still in danger. Her family doesn't trust him since he spent his days sleeping with other men's wives and who is to say that he's changed after doing so caused him to be temporarily exiled.
August 14, 2025
A book with amnesia, mystery, romance, and unexpected twists and turns!
Gillian is kidnapped but is able to escape. Unfortunately, she loses her memory at the same time. When Dante stumbles upon her, he treats her honorably and begins the search for her family.
There are unexpected twists and turns in their search for her family. It leads to a suspenseful, romantic read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gillian is kidnapped but is able to escape. Unfortunately, she loses her memory at the same time. When Dante stumbles upon her, he treats her honorably and begins the search for her family.
There are unexpected twists and turns in their search for her family. It leads to a suspenseful, romantic read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2025
When Gillian escaped from her kidnapper and was left to die, Dante found her and took her home to recuperate. She lost her memory, and soon a plan was made to find out who she really was. Dante had a disreputable past which he is trying to overcome, and Gillian is an innocent. Whilst he's trying to make sure she isn't attacked again, and she is trying to discover who the culprit is, they are unable to keep away from each other. A great relationship with the right values for family, friends.
August 17, 2025
She recognizes a good man even when she has lost her memories. He is not what his reputation makes him out to be. One excellent read where layers of truth are uncovered amidst the couple inevitably fall in love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2025
This third book in the Merry Monarchs series was an exciting, beautiful, written Victorian historical romance. The drama action,intrigue, attempted murder, kidnapping, amnesia, a runaway bride, many emotional issues, a marriage, and a lot more twists that kept me very engaged. I enjoyed the lovely ending. I highly recommend reading!
August 20, 2025
Gillian has three brothers and is usually very protected. Book three is filled with twist and turns, secrets, people who should not be trusted and are underhanded. Dante steps in and provides safety and structure. Well written, great characters and fully engaging.
August 20, 2025
From the frying pan…
Into the fire. Gillian rescues herself from a dastardly kidnapping and attempted force’d marriage. Only, she ends up with no memory and being taken in by Dante, a rake hell just back from exile, he was that bad. But I guess he’s a better option.
Into the fire. Gillian rescues herself from a dastardly kidnapping and attempted force’d marriage. Only, she ends up with no memory and being taken in by Dante, a rake hell just back from exile, he was that bad. But I guess he’s a better option.
January 10, 2016
Absolutely wonderful love story. I didn't read the first two in the series. I fell in love with the reformed rake and the innocent. Read it very quickly! Couldn't put it down
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews