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Scandalous Seductions #5
Her Husband's Lover
Darleston was beautiful. Not in a dandified fashionable sort of way, but in a beastly way… Any woman with a modicum of sense would be a fool to fall for him.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Brilliant. Simply outstanding! The best menage story, I've ever read!” Goodreads Reviewer.
Emma Langley abhors physical contact, consequential she’s shocked when she realizes she’s attracted to one of her father’s guests. Robert, Lord Darleston is like no other man she’s ever met. He’s flamboyant, charming and terrifies her as much as he arouses her. Nor is Emma the only person caught under his spell…
Lord Robert Darleston has a reputation as a rakehell and a voluptuary. When his wife’s scheming drives him from London into the heart of the English countryside, he is unexpectedly reunited with his first lover, Lyle Langley. Torn apart by the intervention of their families nine years earlier, the primary barrier to their reunion is now Emma, Lyle’s wife, a woman Darleston is fascinated by and has no wish to disrespect. All seems hopeless, that is, until Lyle admits that Emma is frigid and their marriage unconsummated.
Darleston proposes a plan… If he can win Emma over, then maybe they can find happiness together. Old ghosts, a jealous wife, and an outraged father stand in his way.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ I had been told the book was hot, but being a historical romance, I didn't expect it to be *that* hot !
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “I devoured this book, and I think I can safely say it’s one of my new favorites.” Owned. Collared. Loved.
“Those that love a sizzling m/m/f story, this one is for you.” Beyond the Squee
“Love, love, love this story! Makes for some steamy reading, but the emotions of the trio are what make it stick with me long after I’ve finished it.” I’m a Voracious Reader
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Brilliant. Simply outstanding! The best menage story, I've ever read!” Goodreads Reviewer.
Emma Langley abhors physical contact, consequential she’s shocked when she realizes she’s attracted to one of her father’s guests. Robert, Lord Darleston is like no other man she’s ever met. He’s flamboyant, charming and terrifies her as much as he arouses her. Nor is Emma the only person caught under his spell…
Lord Robert Darleston has a reputation as a rakehell and a voluptuary. When his wife’s scheming drives him from London into the heart of the English countryside, he is unexpectedly reunited with his first lover, Lyle Langley. Torn apart by the intervention of their families nine years earlier, the primary barrier to their reunion is now Emma, Lyle’s wife, a woman Darleston is fascinated by and has no wish to disrespect. All seems hopeless, that is, until Lyle admits that Emma is frigid and their marriage unconsummated.
Darleston proposes a plan… If he can win Emma over, then maybe they can find happiness together. Old ghosts, a jealous wife, and an outraged father stand in his way.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ I had been told the book was hot, but being a historical romance, I didn't expect it to be *that* hot !
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “I devoured this book, and I think I can safely say it’s one of my new favorites.” Owned. Collared. Loved.
“Those that love a sizzling m/m/f story, this one is for you.” Beyond the Squee
“Love, love, love this story! Makes for some steamy reading, but the emotions of the trio are what make it stick with me long after I’ve finished it.” I’m a Voracious Reader
352 pages, Paperback
First published March 21, 2013
71 people are currently reading
712 people want to read
About the author
Madelynne Ellis
79 books403 followersMadelynne Ellis is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author of over 50 erotic romance novels.
Madelynne lives in the UK, not far from the Welsh border with her partner, family, & assorted pets. She is currently sipping rapidly cooling decaf coffee, listening to loud music, & indulging her obsession for tattooed bad boys.
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Madelynne lives in the UK, not far from the Welsh border with her partner, family, & assorted pets. She is currently sipping rapidly cooling decaf coffee, listening to loud music, & indulging her obsession for tattooed bad boys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 2, 2013
Her Husband's Lover by Madelynne Ellis was an interesting read. This is #5 in the Georgian Rakehells series, but I quickly caught on to what was happening and what had gone on before so it can be read as a standalone book. This story showcased a side of the London ton scene that I've never read about before. Darleston is heir to a dukedom. He's married to a harpy who has sold some innuendoes about his private life to the papers. Lucy doesn't have proof that he has male lovers, but she has her suspicions. It's not that she cares, but her funds have been cut off due to her own affairs and she's ticked.
Darleston just wants to be happy. He'd like to be loved, but figures that's just not going to happen. He's bisexual and his needs just aren't being met. He was in love a long time ago and his heart has been hurt a few times since.
Emma Langley cannot abide being touched. By anyone. She's been married to Lyle for two years and the only time he's touched her was to place a wedding ring on her finger. We find out why as the book goes along. And I wanted to hug her for her reasons, even though she certainly wouldn't appreciate that! She's comes to appreciate the fact that she might just want Darleston and no one is more shocked than she.
Part of the reason that Lyle hasn't kicked up a fuss about not touching his wife is because he likes men. Their marriage has suited them fine as he finds lovers and he doesn't touch her.
When Darleston arrives at Emma's father's home to attend a boxing match, he hugs Lyle and that's when Emma realizes that they know each other. And that they know each other well. Her walls are breaking down because she also realizes that she wants what they have.
Yes, this is a historical m/m/f book. There is some angst, there is some joy, there are some incredibly steamy scenes. This is definitely rated for the over 18 crowd.
While I enjoyed the theme of this story, that love really is what matters, I kept being thrown out of the narrative by some word choices. At one point Emma "saunters" toward a window. The saunter just threw me as she was incredibly upset at the time. She's "screechy" more than once, which really doesn't fit her behavior most of the time; it felt out of character. There is also plenty of repetition throughout the book. I got the fact that Darleston and Lyle knew each other years ago after the first three times I read it. And I got that Emma didn't want to be touched after reading it much less times than it was mentioned. It made the pacing feel odd. Of course, this is an ARC and maybe the final editing tightened up this issue.
The story was compelling and the romance was beyond spicy. I would most definitely read more from this author. And those that love a sizzling m/m/f story, this one is for you.
Thank you, NetGalley and Mischief, for the opportunity to read Her Husband's Lover.
Darleston just wants to be happy. He'd like to be loved, but figures that's just not going to happen. He's bisexual and his needs just aren't being met. He was in love a long time ago and his heart has been hurt a few times since.
Emma Langley cannot abide being touched. By anyone. She's been married to Lyle for two years and the only time he's touched her was to place a wedding ring on her finger. We find out why as the book goes along. And I wanted to hug her for her reasons, even though she certainly wouldn't appreciate that! She's comes to appreciate the fact that she might just want Darleston and no one is more shocked than she.
Part of the reason that Lyle hasn't kicked up a fuss about not touching his wife is because he likes men. Their marriage has suited them fine as he finds lovers and he doesn't touch her.
When Darleston arrives at Emma's father's home to attend a boxing match, he hugs Lyle and that's when Emma realizes that they know each other. And that they know each other well. Her walls are breaking down because she also realizes that she wants what they have.
Yes, this is a historical m/m/f book. There is some angst, there is some joy, there are some incredibly steamy scenes. This is definitely rated for the over 18 crowd.
While I enjoyed the theme of this story, that love really is what matters, I kept being thrown out of the narrative by some word choices. At one point Emma "saunters" toward a window. The saunter just threw me as she was incredibly upset at the time. She's "screechy" more than once, which really doesn't fit her behavior most of the time; it felt out of character. There is also plenty of repetition throughout the book. I got the fact that Darleston and Lyle knew each other years ago after the first three times I read it. And I got that Emma didn't want to be touched after reading it much less times than it was mentioned. It made the pacing feel odd. Of course, this is an ARC and maybe the final editing tightened up this issue.
The story was compelling and the romance was beyond spicy. I would most definitely read more from this author. And those that love a sizzling m/m/f story, this one is for you.
Thank you, NetGalley and Mischief, for the opportunity to read Her Husband's Lover.
December 29, 2015
Her Husband's Lover. Madelynne Ellis
I received this via Netgalley in return for an honest review. I don't gush and give false praise – I don't believe that helps readers or authors so what you read is what I truly feel about a book.
Go back 3-4 years and I used to love historical novels, but for last few years I've not read any – but I do like a good erotic romance and the historical setting of this one added an extra dimension of attraction for me. Emma is married to Lyle Langely, she chose him carefully after coming across him making love to a man. This was what she needed, to be married to keep her father and society happy, but to someone who didn't want her sexually. She cannot bear to be touched, even the mildest of skin contact from her family repels her. We don't get to find out why til quite far on in the novel, but it explains so well how she could go from hating and being repulsed at the thought of touch to feeling, and acting on her attraction to a visitor to her fathers house, Lord Darleston. She and Lyle are staying there as her father arranges prize fights and she is needed to act as host to the visitors, as only she and her sister are remaining of the family. What she soon discovers is her husband was Lord Darlington's lover in the past, and the draw between them is as strong as ever.
I enjoyed this book, the historical setting is just perfect with all the hypocrisy and revulsion society threw upon homosexuals, the way ladies were second class and controlled and how affairs were commonplace and yet had to be kept secret or the pair would be shunned by society. In this book Lyle wants to rekindle his relationship with Lord Darlington (Robert). Robert is shocked at the way Lyle has such a beautiful wife but the only touch in two years of marriage is when he placed the ring on her finger at the wedding. He loves men – but also women and Emma is an attraction for him right from the start...
Can things work out for the three of them? Can two become three and how will they cover their tracks? They're working on a way when a further spanner gets thrown in and there is mischief, mayhem and tragedy to come. Its very well written in a way that fits the times and the storyline and I really enjoyed reading this. There are some pretty hot sex scenes between Lyle and Robert and Emma and Robert so be warned – this isn't a sweet chaste kiss type historical novel but one that's quite raw and raunchy at times. If that’s not your scene don't buy this and moan later – I've seen that happen too often lately and its really unfair to the author.
Its excellent value at just £1.99 for 283 pages on kindle. The quality of writing and editing is impeccable, and its was a pleasure to read. Its not a strong, involved, convoluted storyline but one that's quite light and easy to read, and for that reason I’m giving four stars not five. My fives need a more complex basic plot than this, but horses for courses and all that (apt on Grand National day!) and lots of readers want a simple, easy, escapist read so if you're looking for a romance with some hot spice that's uncomplicated then this book is perfect. I'd certainly read more like this for a relaxing smooth entertainment for a few hours.
Stars: good solid four.
I received this via Netgalley in return for an honest review. I don't gush and give false praise – I don't believe that helps readers or authors so what you read is what I truly feel about a book.
Go back 3-4 years and I used to love historical novels, but for last few years I've not read any – but I do like a good erotic romance and the historical setting of this one added an extra dimension of attraction for me. Emma is married to Lyle Langely, she chose him carefully after coming across him making love to a man. This was what she needed, to be married to keep her father and society happy, but to someone who didn't want her sexually. She cannot bear to be touched, even the mildest of skin contact from her family repels her. We don't get to find out why til quite far on in the novel, but it explains so well how she could go from hating and being repulsed at the thought of touch to feeling, and acting on her attraction to a visitor to her fathers house, Lord Darleston. She and Lyle are staying there as her father arranges prize fights and she is needed to act as host to the visitors, as only she and her sister are remaining of the family. What she soon discovers is her husband was Lord Darlington's lover in the past, and the draw between them is as strong as ever.
I enjoyed this book, the historical setting is just perfect with all the hypocrisy and revulsion society threw upon homosexuals, the way ladies were second class and controlled and how affairs were commonplace and yet had to be kept secret or the pair would be shunned by society. In this book Lyle wants to rekindle his relationship with Lord Darlington (Robert). Robert is shocked at the way Lyle has such a beautiful wife but the only touch in two years of marriage is when he placed the ring on her finger at the wedding. He loves men – but also women and Emma is an attraction for him right from the start...
Can things work out for the three of them? Can two become three and how will they cover their tracks? They're working on a way when a further spanner gets thrown in and there is mischief, mayhem and tragedy to come. Its very well written in a way that fits the times and the storyline and I really enjoyed reading this. There are some pretty hot sex scenes between Lyle and Robert and Emma and Robert so be warned – this isn't a sweet chaste kiss type historical novel but one that's quite raw and raunchy at times. If that’s not your scene don't buy this and moan later – I've seen that happen too often lately and its really unfair to the author.
Its excellent value at just £1.99 for 283 pages on kindle. The quality of writing and editing is impeccable, and its was a pleasure to read. Its not a strong, involved, convoluted storyline but one that's quite light and easy to read, and for that reason I’m giving four stars not five. My fives need a more complex basic plot than this, but horses for courses and all that (apt on Grand National day!) and lots of readers want a simple, easy, escapist read so if you're looking for a romance with some hot spice that's uncomplicated then this book is perfect. I'd certainly read more like this for a relaxing smooth entertainment for a few hours.
Stars: good solid four.
March 29, 2013
I really enjoyed this! Somewhere between a 4 and 4-1/2. I always feel like I learn new words when I read historicals. :-) And I learn about birth control methods. A lemon peel. Interesting.
Robert is bi-sexual and he's heir to an earldom. When he was much younger, he had a lover, Lyle, who was a neighbor. When Robert's mother found out about Robert and Lyle, she conspired to send Lyle away to India and married Robert off to a witch of a woman, whose only goal in life was to live as an earl's wife and enjoy all the perks that entails.
Years later, Robert is sort of an outcast. His witch wife, Lucy, has been spreading rumors of his homosexual tendencies. He's visiting the Hills's estate now, since his twin brother Ned is working there. Emma, being the Hills' eldest daughter, is acting as hostess to the visiting guests and she's immediately drawn to Robert. And while she never allows anyone to touch her and she does no touching herself (a result of a tragic childhood), she envisions touching Robert. Robert seems interested as well, and then he comes face to face with Lyle again... who is married to Emma. Emma and Lyle's relationship seems the perfect situation: Lyle can dally with any man he wants as long as there's no resulting scandal, and Emma doesn't have to worry about him making marital demands of her.
Robert, being bi-sexual, is drawn to both of them. It's easy to pick up where he and Lyle left off, but he knows Emma needs kid glove treatment. The way Robert approaches her was so sweet. He allowed her to go at her own pace, and ultimately his patience paid off in spades. I thought he dealt with the potential jealousy issues between Lyle and Emma was pretty good as well. But of course, it wouldn't be a good story without more conflict and angst.
A very enjoyable story. I am apparently going to have to go back and read the others in this series. This one can easily be read as a standalone, but it was a good story and I'm interested in the others now!
Many thanks to Ms. Ellis, who provided this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own and I was not obligated to write a positive review.
Robert is bi-sexual and he's heir to an earldom. When he was much younger, he had a lover, Lyle, who was a neighbor. When Robert's mother found out about Robert and Lyle, she conspired to send Lyle away to India and married Robert off to a witch of a woman, whose only goal in life was to live as an earl's wife and enjoy all the perks that entails.
Years later, Robert is sort of an outcast. His witch wife, Lucy, has been spreading rumors of his homosexual tendencies. He's visiting the Hills's estate now, since his twin brother Ned is working there. Emma, being the Hills' eldest daughter, is acting as hostess to the visiting guests and she's immediately drawn to Robert. And while she never allows anyone to touch her and she does no touching herself (a result of a tragic childhood), she envisions touching Robert. Robert seems interested as well, and then he comes face to face with Lyle again... who is married to Emma. Emma and Lyle's relationship seems the perfect situation: Lyle can dally with any man he wants as long as there's no resulting scandal, and Emma doesn't have to worry about him making marital demands of her.
Robert, being bi-sexual, is drawn to both of them. It's easy to pick up where he and Lyle left off, but he knows Emma needs kid glove treatment. The way Robert approaches her was so sweet. He allowed her to go at her own pace, and ultimately his patience paid off in spades. I thought he dealt with the potential jealousy issues between Lyle and Emma was pretty good as well. But of course, it wouldn't be a good story without more conflict and angst.
A very enjoyable story. I am apparently going to have to go back and read the others in this series. This one can easily be read as a standalone, but it was a good story and I'm interested in the others now!
Many thanks to Ms. Ellis, who provided this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own and I was not obligated to write a positive review.
March 13, 2016
*I am in groups and a GR friend of the author and she offered some review copies and I jumped and am offering an honest review of her new book*
This is Robert Darleston's character's story from
and I loved him in that book so I've pestered the author over time as to when this was going to be out.
Robert is hiding out and licking his wounds because Giles has committed to Fortuna and his wife, Lucy, has continued to make his life miserable.
He unexpectedly meets up with an old boyhood friend and lover, Lyle, who is now married to an icy woman, Emma. He immediately sees the fire within her and she's attracted to him as well even though he has renewed his relationship with Lyle. Emma knows all about her husband and accepts this relationship and is intrigued by it. Slowly, Robert is able to thaw Emma's frostiness and he comes to find he wants to build a relationship with both husband and wife.
Unfortunately, Robert's wife catches up with him and tries to convince him that he is the father of her child and generally be a witch.
I love Madelynne's sex scenes - they are just yummy and I wasn't disappointed with this new story. Robert is the perfect middle in this relationship because Lyle has no interest in het sex and Robert can have his cake and eat it too.
You don't need to read the other books in the Georgian Rakehells series to understand this book but if you do, I definitely recommend Three Times the Scandal since he and Neddy figure prominently in that story.
This is Robert Darleston's character's story from
and I loved him in that book so I've pestered the author over time as to when this was going to be out. Robert is hiding out and licking his wounds because Giles has committed to Fortuna and his wife, Lucy, has continued to make his life miserable.
He unexpectedly meets up with an old boyhood friend and lover, Lyle, who is now married to an icy woman, Emma. He immediately sees the fire within her and she's attracted to him as well even though he has renewed his relationship with Lyle. Emma knows all about her husband and accepts this relationship and is intrigued by it. Slowly, Robert is able to thaw Emma's frostiness and he comes to find he wants to build a relationship with both husband and wife.
Unfortunately, Robert's wife catches up with him and tries to convince him that he is the father of her child and generally be a witch.
I love Madelynne's sex scenes - they are just yummy and I wasn't disappointed with this new story. Robert is the perfect middle in this relationship because Lyle has no interest in het sex and Robert can have his cake and eat it too.
You don't need to read the other books in the Georgian Rakehells series to understand this book but if you do, I definitely recommend Three Times the Scandal since he and Neddy figure prominently in that story.
July 7, 2023
I read this book under the title “The Viscount, His Lover and I”
As the title suggests this is a love story among 3 people Robert Lord Darleston, his childhood friend Lyle and Lyle’s wife Emma.
However this is mostly Emma’s story. Emma has aversion to touching. For years no one has touched her neither her sister, father or her husband. Lyle and Emma have mutually tolerant relationship Lyle is respecting her no touch policy and she tolerates him sneaking around topping any man he finds attractive.
However Emma’s feelings awaken by the arrival of Lord Darleston. All of a sudden Emma starts daydreaming about touching him and his great looking coat and pants.
“She longed for a companion who was more attuned to her needs, someone who was wicked and exciting and who would give her a reason to thrive instead of growing old and drab.”
without telling you more of the story I would just like to sum up that Darleston becomes Lyle’s lover and the book’s heat goes up to eleven.
He also starts to find Emma attractive and conceives that one day they can all have ménage a trois. Lyle is not that excited.
Lord Darleston’s pursuit of Emma takes time she doesn’t just drop her aversion to touch when she sees him. I really appreciated how slow and careful the author was with her issue.
Even though the book starts with a lot of debauchery it ends with lots of love of all kinds of forms and it’s fascinating.
As the title suggests this is a love story among 3 people Robert Lord Darleston, his childhood friend Lyle and Lyle’s wife Emma.
However this is mostly Emma’s story. Emma has aversion to touching. For years no one has touched her neither her sister, father or her husband. Lyle and Emma have mutually tolerant relationship Lyle is respecting her no touch policy and she tolerates him sneaking around topping any man he finds attractive.
However Emma’s feelings awaken by the arrival of Lord Darleston. All of a sudden Emma starts daydreaming about touching him and his great looking coat and pants.
“She longed for a companion who was more attuned to her needs, someone who was wicked and exciting and who would give her a reason to thrive instead of growing old and drab.”
without telling you more of the story I would just like to sum up that Darleston becomes Lyle’s lover and the book’s heat goes up to eleven.
He also starts to find Emma attractive and conceives that one day they can all have ménage a trois. Lyle is not that excited.
Lord Darleston’s pursuit of Emma takes time she doesn’t just drop her aversion to touch when she sees him. I really appreciated how slow and careful the author was with her issue.
Even though the book starts with a lot of debauchery it ends with lots of love of all kinds of forms and it’s fascinating.
November 5, 2013
Triangolone succulento.
Hot al punto giusto, intreccio credibile, ben scritto.
E' il secondo libro che leggo di quest'autrice e ho la forte impressione che in realtà a lei interessino gli abbracci dei bei ragazzi...le donne sono solo un contorno.
Hot al punto giusto, intreccio credibile, ben scritto.
E' il secondo libro che leggo di quest'autrice e ho la forte impressione che in realtà a lei interessino gli abbracci dei bei ragazzi...le donne sono solo un contorno.
March 6, 2014
Aha! Another book which disappeared from my shelves (and yet, the system remembered that I owned a copy). *sigh* Thanks, GR gremlins. :/
____________________
* Review copy provided by the author.
For now, I'll just say that I love Ms. Ellis's voice for historicals. There's something about her subtle wordings and era-appropriate turns of phrases which fully immerse me in the setting/period of a story. Even tho it's nearly 300 pgs, I wished that this one had explored the 3-way relationship a bit more. It was a rather unique read in that it didn't involve a true ménage but instead, a non-traditional love triangle.
Full review to come on BookLikes―hopefully, I kept a copy of my review or something.
____________________
* Review copy provided by the author.
For now, I'll just say that I love Ms. Ellis's voice for historicals. There's something about her subtle wordings and era-appropriate turns of phrases which fully immerse me in the setting/period of a story. Even tho it's nearly 300 pgs, I wished that this one had explored the 3-way relationship a bit more. It was a rather unique read in that it didn't involve a true ménage but instead, a non-traditional love triangle.
Full review to come on BookLikes―hopefully, I kept a copy of my review or something.
May 28, 2014
A really enjoyable read. I do like reading historical romance (see my bookshelf and that's not all of them) and found this one to be right up there with my favourite romance writers. I will have to go and look up a few words in the dictionary as I hadn't come across them before ie coracle. I thought the story was very well written as a portrayal of society's mores at the time and the language used was accurate for then.
I didn't realise this was number 5 in a series and will have to look at others as I enjoyed this one so much. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone and is recommended to those that like historical romance.
Thanks to the author for offering it as a prize in the Erotic Enchants 2013 Xmas Party.
I didn't realise this was number 5 in a series and will have to look at others as I enjoyed this one so much. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone and is recommended to those that like historical romance.
Thanks to the author for offering it as a prize in the Erotic Enchants 2013 Xmas Party.
March 8, 2015
brilliant. simply outstanding!
the best menage story, i've ever read!
the progression, the coaxing from two separates partnership into one big threesome is something i would give my standing applause for. really realistic! the sex part, the first time, its beautiful and undeniably made me fly to some mini orgasm land. i love the spontanity of it.
though the author could reworks how attention should be equal in the scene when three of them present, i would say this one belong in top 5 my best read all the time. really love it!
the best menage story, i've ever read!
the progression, the coaxing from two separates partnership into one big threesome is something i would give my standing applause for. really realistic! the sex part, the first time, its beautiful and undeniably made me fly to some mini orgasm land. i love the spontanity of it.
though the author could reworks how attention should be equal in the scene when three of them present, i would say this one belong in top 5 my best read all the time. really love it!
June 16, 2024
THE VISCOUNT, HIS LOVER AND I
Emma and Lyle Langley have a marriage that suits them both. Emma does not like to be touched, Lyle 's preference for lovers isn't for her sex. When a lover from Lyle's past shows up at a houseparty, they become lovers once more. Darleston is also attracted to Emma and her aversion to touch. He pursues her not just for himself, but for the three of them to have a life together steeped in love. Very explicit sex. MMF
Emma and Lyle Langley have a marriage that suits them both. Emma does not like to be touched, Lyle 's preference for lovers isn't for her sex. When a lover from Lyle's past shows up at a houseparty, they become lovers once more. Darleston is also attracted to Emma and her aversion to touch. He pursues her not just for himself, but for the three of them to have a life together steeped in love. Very explicit sex. MMF
July 4, 2015
Bit boring in places. OK read.
May 19, 2025
I adored these three people equally as they slowly, slowly, worked their way towards their version of happiness.
Emma Langley and her husband Lyle are staying at her father's estate, because of a prizefight the father's set up to take place in a few days. Emma is revolted by touch, and Kyle is very gay, so theirs is as close to a perfect union as they could hope for in 1801. But what will happen when Kyle's old lover Lord Darleston turns out to be one of the other guests at the house party?
There were many things to love, not least their communication, but my favorite part was how Emma wasn't magically cured from her frigidity the first time she caught the tiniest glimpse of a cock (as so often happens in historical romance.) Touch was difficult, things took time, and as we slowly found out where her trauma originated, it all made sense.
She was also stronger and more capable than she ever would have thought, when fate left her to care for a dying man. Even when her father forbade it, and the man's valet (who knew field medicine) was sent away, she still dug in her heels and did what she had to do. I was so proud of her!
Emma Langley and her husband Lyle are staying at her father's estate, because of a prizefight the father's set up to take place in a few days. Emma is revolted by touch, and Kyle is very gay, so theirs is as close to a perfect union as they could hope for in 1801. But what will happen when Kyle's old lover Lord Darleston turns out to be one of the other guests at the house party?
There were many things to love, not least their communication, but my favorite part was how Emma wasn't magically cured from her frigidity the first time she caught the tiniest glimpse of a cock (as so often happens in historical romance.) Touch was difficult, things took time, and as we slowly found out where her trauma originated, it all made sense.
She was also stronger and more capable than she ever would have thought, when fate left her to care for a dying man. Even when her father forbade it, and the man's valet (who knew field medicine) was sent away, she still dug in her heels and did what she had to do. I was so proud of her!
February 6, 2024
Lady Emma (who is touch-averse) is married to Lyle, Viscount Langley (who is gay). They are satisfied with their marriage in that neither will make demands of the other, but it can sometimes be lonely. Then Robert, the scandalous Lord Darleston (who is bisexual), turns up at their summer party. He is the first man Emma has felt attraction for, and the first she ever imagines touching her without discomfort. But wait--he's her husband's former lover, looking to rekindle their spark. And he's all kinds of intrigued by her, too. Whatever shall they do?
Super spicy and I did like the characters, but left me wanting more. I wanted to see how they'll make their love 'V' work out long-term.
Super spicy and I did like the characters, but left me wanting more. I wanted to see how they'll make their love 'V' work out long-term.
February 9, 2021
Real sexy book
Wow was really a sexy rude book but made a change to read something so taboo but well written ,didn't come across as sleazy or distasteful but a love story with a difference,and the period it was set in made it better and gave it more depth ,loved it would recommend if you fancy something less boring in lockdown
Wow was really a sexy rude book but made a change to read something so taboo but well written ,didn't come across as sleazy or distasteful but a love story with a difference,and the period it was set in made it better and gave it more depth ,loved it would recommend if you fancy something less boring in lockdown
June 4, 2024
If you’re wondering why this one took so long, it’s not the book’s fault. I have a tendency to read multiple books at a time and, while this one was very good, I was slightly more invested in a couple of series I was reading. So, when one of those would arrive, Emma, Lionel and Robert would be put aside until I’d finished with Chet and Bernie or one of the 12 Dukes of Christmas.
This really is a much better book than I thought it was going to be though. Once I really got into it, it was much harder to put down. It has a very ‘old-timely’ feel to the language which fits the period of the book perfectly. There are, obviously, some sex scenes. None of them are so graphic as to be embarrassing, even to a ‘prude’ such as myself
This really is a much better book than I thought it was going to be though. Once I really got into it, it was much harder to put down. It has a very ‘old-timely’ feel to the language which fits the period of the book perfectly. There are, obviously, some sex scenes. None of them are so graphic as to be embarrassing, even to a ‘prude’ such as myself
July 14, 2022
I was surprised that above all else this was a true love story! Lyle and Emma had a marriage based on a platonic like. Lyle and Robert had a passionate love affair for years. The three of them had alove affair based on friendship.. I decided to follow this author to see if she can top this
October 9, 2020
2nd read
I have read this previously and it just gets better with a second read. It was some time ago but it does not get boring. Read it again and enjoy a hot read.
I have read this previously and it just gets better with a second read. It was some time ago but it does not get boring. Read it again and enjoy a hot read.
January 26, 2022
1.5 STARS
More like a love triangle than a polyamorous.
More like a love triangle than a polyamorous.
July 31, 2023
A wonderful sexy book…highly recommended.
April 3, 2013
4.25*s
When I started this book I had no idea that it was part of a series. It is actually the fifth in a series.
Now that I do know though I cannot wait to get the rest of the series! I also can't help but feel that I would have liked this book so much more if I had known that it was part of a series and if I had read the rest of the series first.
Let's start with what I disliked.
Well, Lady Darleston was far too melodramatic, I hated her, but I also hate how she was treated. Then again, this was 1801... I hate everything to do with Lady Darelston, but I guess you're supposed to. I feel that if I had read the rest of the series I may have understood the way she was treated.
I don't think anything else really stuck out to me. To dislike.
What I liked.
There was a lot I liked. Lord Darleston, I loved him, he was just...a great character that I would have loved more if I knew more about him. (Again, I need to read the rest of this series!)
Emma. Oh, poor Emma. I love her character and everything that happens in the end.
Whilst I did love Lyle...I just didn't love him as much as the others.
The relationship between all of these character... I really loved the relationship between them all. Although...I don't think we know a lot about the character (probably need to read the rest of the series) and it did feel a little fast...
This book was only my second historical romance, ever. But, because of this book, I will be picking up more!
I'd recommend this book to those who have read the rest of the series. It probably can stand alone, but I feel like you'd be able to appreciate the book more if you've read the rest of the series.
When I started this book I had no idea that it was part of a series. It is actually the fifth in a series.
Now that I do know though I cannot wait to get the rest of the series! I also can't help but feel that I would have liked this book so much more if I had known that it was part of a series and if I had read the rest of the series first.
Let's start with what I disliked.
Well, Lady Darleston was far too melodramatic, I hated her, but I also hate how she was treated. Then again, this was 1801... I hate everything to do with Lady Darelston, but I guess you're supposed to. I feel that if I had read the rest of the series I may have understood the way she was treated.
I don't think anything else really stuck out to me. To dislike.
What I liked.
There was a lot I liked. Lord Darleston, I loved him, he was just...a great character that I would have loved more if I knew more about him. (Again, I need to read the rest of this series!)
Emma. Oh, poor Emma. I love her character and everything that happens in the end.
Whilst I did love Lyle...I just didn't love him as much as the others.
The relationship between all of these character... I really loved the relationship between them all. Although...I don't think we know a lot about the character (probably need to read the rest of the series) and it did feel a little fast...
This book was only my second historical romance, ever. But, because of this book, I will be picking up more!
I'd recommend this book to those who have read the rest of the series. It probably can stand alone, but I feel like you'd be able to appreciate the book more if you've read the rest of the series.
September 28, 2015
I am happy to see the growing number of erotic romances that actually have a complete plot and well developed characters. Her Husband's Lover (Georgian Rakehells, #5) fits that decription. It is a well written erotic historical romance (menage, m/m/f). This is a fully fleshed out (no pun intended) romantic novel about a homosexual man, a bisexual man and a frigid woman. Emma Langley cannot bear to be touched because of a childhood trauma so she has married a gay man. The arrangement is tolerable for them both until his former lover, Darleston, enters the scene. For the first time Emma finds herself attracted to a man. The book explores their progress toward a three-way relationship.
The writing is definitely above average for an erotic romance and the characters have depth. There is an interesting triangle at work here. Emma's husband, Lyle, is completely in love with Darleston, but genuinely likes Emma. Darleston loves Lyle, but feels an intense attraction for Emma as well. Emma gradually allows her feelings for Darleston to overcome her fears of being touched. Darleston becomes the glue that holds the triangle together. Unusual, but intriguing dynamics.
The sexual scenes are quite explicit, including male/male, male/female, and male/male/female depictions, but there is no BDSM. Readers that enjoy erotica, but want a full novel with a developed story will enjoy this book. It is not necessary to read the other stories in the series first.
ARC courtesy of Netgalley
The writing is definitely above average for an erotic romance and the characters have depth. There is an interesting triangle at work here. Emma's husband, Lyle, is completely in love with Darleston, but genuinely likes Emma. Darleston loves Lyle, but feels an intense attraction for Emma as well. Emma gradually allows her feelings for Darleston to overcome her fears of being touched. Darleston becomes the glue that holds the triangle together. Unusual, but intriguing dynamics.
The sexual scenes are quite explicit, including male/male, male/female, and male/male/female depictions, but there is no BDSM. Readers that enjoy erotica, but want a full novel with a developed story will enjoy this book. It is not necessary to read the other stories in the series first.
ARC courtesy of Netgalley
July 21, 2014
Her Husband's Lover by Madelynne Ellis was a very good book.
But I have to admit, that when I had read 5% I had my doubts, whether I want to continue. By 10% I was considering the possibility, that it might be my first DNF book. But I didn't want to give up so soon, so I kept reading and by 20% I could not put the book down and stayed up half a night to finish. It is an wonderful Vibrator Book Club book. :)
So even tough the sex so early in the story and the raucous way how husband tells his wife about his lover made me want to stop reading, in the end I really liked the story and the characters. Besides all the sex and all the blunt way how the lovers talk with each other, the story is juicy and intriguing.
I really liked the way how the main characters discover each other - some again, some for the first time. How the husband gives his permission to his lover to seduce his wife, knowing that he won't get very far and how he gets jealous when the lover finds the way to get close to his wife. How the wife and the lover take small steps toward each other, how they demolish the wall that surrounds her one stone at the time and how she finally finds the reason and will to let go of her fears for the people she loves.
All of it was well written and I'm glad I didn't give up on it so easily.
But I have to admit, that when I had read 5% I had my doubts, whether I want to continue. By 10% I was considering the possibility, that it might be my first DNF book. But I didn't want to give up so soon, so I kept reading and by 20% I could not put the book down and stayed up half a night to finish. It is an wonderful Vibrator Book Club book. :)
So even tough the sex so early in the story and the raucous way how husband tells his wife about his lover made me want to stop reading, in the end I really liked the story and the characters. Besides all the sex and all the blunt way how the lovers talk with each other, the story is juicy and intriguing.
I really liked the way how the main characters discover each other - some again, some for the first time. How the husband gives his permission to his lover to seduce his wife, knowing that he won't get very far and how he gets jealous when the lover finds the way to get close to his wife. How the wife and the lover take small steps toward each other, how they demolish the wall that surrounds her one stone at the time and how she finally finds the reason and will to let go of her fears for the people she loves.
All of it was well written and I'm glad I didn't give up on it so easily.
March 30, 2013
Emma married her husband, Lyle, knowing his proclivities. Behavior that could see him hanged in that time, but that she accepts easily. She finds their arrangement suitable as a difficult past has made it hard for her to accept the touch of another. When Robert Darleston arrived at Emma's family estate at the prompting of his twin brother, she is captivated and feels a desire she hasn't felt in years; the desire to touch. But her feelings are complicated by the fact that Darleston is Lyle's former lover. They are then set on a course of thawing Emma's iciness and discovering a way to blend them into something beautiful. If they can overcome the many obstacles in their way, with the greatest barrier to their happiness being Robert's wife.
My gosh, I really enjoyed this book! It combined a number of things that I enjoy when I read. Erotica, M/M/F interactions, and a historical romance. Real, enjoyable characters. The storyline and the romance did it for me, and my gosh I loved the sex. I may have to look into this author's other work because she won a reader with this storyline.
My gosh, I really enjoyed this book! It combined a number of things that I enjoy when I read. Erotica, M/M/F interactions, and a historical romance. Real, enjoyable characters. The storyline and the romance did it for me, and my gosh I loved the sex. I may have to look into this author's other work because she won a reader with this storyline.
February 8, 2023
Heroine has a horrible childhood secret. Hero (s) are interesting. It is completely hot! Although I think of myself as a straight woman, menage situations like this are incredibly erotic to me. Madelynne Ellis has a plausible situation in that the heroine is married to a gay man in a time when homosexual sex was a crime, so the resulting banishment by society and all their families makes perfect sense. I'm sure many women who found the idea of sex repugnant might have been very willing to marry a gay man. Then, being attracted to your husband's lover is a nice twist--she is able to let go of her past. He is a gentle, patient and very loving man who reassures both his lovers and eventually has at least the beginning of a happily ever after. It would be nice to have a sequel or extended epilogue to see how these wonderful characters progressed into their future.
July 6, 2023
I had a longer review but my dumb phone messed it it up and I don’t want to rewrite. Basically I never read this author before, but I will again. Believable, multifaceted characters. Great writing of the erotic scenes that were usually serving a purpose either with general plot or character development. Actually believed the time period details (other than the actual way of speaking but that I’ll leave to books written in that period, I don’t mind the contemporary speech since it was flavored with period specific slang). Very good thoughtful writing, especially in a genre where so many authors just throw out nonsense.
March 9, 2020
Her Husband's Lover
This is a very interesting book. Emma the h doesn't like to be touched at all by anyone. She marries her husband Lyle because she saw him with another man and realized he would never make demands of her. This works for them until Darleston comes along and decides he wants them both. The journey between Emma and Darleston is different and interesting the author has written a great story. I would recommend you read Three Times the Scandal before this book for the best experience but it can be understood without.
My biggest problem with this book is all the typos, and for the price of this book I feel like it should have been better.
This is a very interesting book. Emma the h doesn't like to be touched at all by anyone. She marries her husband Lyle because she saw him with another man and realized he would never make demands of her. This works for them until Darleston comes along and decides he wants them both. The journey between Emma and Darleston is different and interesting the author has written a great story. I would recommend you read Three Times the Scandal before this book for the best experience but it can be understood without.
My biggest problem with this book is all the typos, and for the price of this book I feel like it should have been better.
April 22, 2013
This was a good book with the historical aspects of it. But I was a kinda waiting for the all three of them to come together. I was a little dismayed that in the end they did but Lyle and Emma still werent really a couple. I know she has a few issues and is getting over. I also didnt like how long it took to explain her issue and what caused it. I just kept thinking ok she doesnt like touch and you get snips of why but it wasnt FULLY explained until close to the end.
March 17, 2015
3.5/5
This is my third book by Madelynne Ellis, and so far I'm really impressed with her writing. She writes lovely, likeable characters and she does her research. She is also a British erotic romance writer, which is particularly appealing to me. I've enjoyed the sassiness of this book, and the M/F/M interactions were pretty hot. Recommended. It was a freebie on Amazon(not anymore) which you can grab along with Anything But Vanilla (not a freebie anymore)!
This is my third book by Madelynne Ellis, and so far I'm really impressed with her writing. She writes lovely, likeable characters and she does her research. She is also a British erotic romance writer, which is particularly appealing to me. I've enjoyed the sassiness of this book, and the M/F/M interactions were pretty hot. Recommended. It was a freebie on Amazon(not anymore) which you can grab along with Anything But Vanilla (not a freebie anymore)!
February 1, 2017
I had been told the book was hot, but being a historical romance, I didn't expect it to be *that* hot !
Good characters, no falling in love of the three of them at first sight, realistic (and heartbreaking) reasons for her not wanting to be touched, the way the story progressed, really this novel was a very good surprise to me.
And believe me, it was *hawt* : a perfect read during this freezing winter !
Good characters, no falling in love of the three of them at first sight, realistic (and heartbreaking) reasons for her not wanting to be touched, the way the story progressed, really this novel was a very good surprise to me.
And believe me, it was *hawt* : a perfect read during this freezing winter !
April 22, 2013
One of my all time favorites.
I enjoyed the book immensely and hope that the author will continue to write for these exceptionally interesting characters. Simply Memorable.
I enjoyed the book immensely and hope that the author will continue to write for these exceptionally interesting characters. Simply Memorable.
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