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Cynster #6
All About Love
Alasdair Cynster known to his intimates as Lucifer decides to rusticate in the country before the matchmaking skills of London′s mamas become firmly focused on him, the last unwed Cynster. But an escape to Devonshire leads him straight to his destiny in the irresistible form of Phyllida Tallent, a willful, independent beauty of means who brings all his masterful Cynster instincts rioting to the fore. Lucifer isn′t about to deny his desire for Phyllida, and he′s determined to use all his seductive skills to enjoy the benefits of destiny′s choice without submitting to the parson′s noose.
Phyllida has had a bevy of suitors, her charm and wit are well known throughout the countryside, but none of them has tempted her the way Lucifer does. His offer to teach her all about the ways of love is almost too tantalising to resist. And though she′s not yet completely surrendered, she knows only a fool stands against a Cynster...and Phyllida is no one′s fool.
Phyllida has had a bevy of suitors, her charm and wit are well known throughout the countryside, but none of them has tempted her the way Lucifer does. His offer to teach her all about the ways of love is almost too tantalising to resist. And though she′s not yet completely surrendered, she knows only a fool stands against a Cynster...and Phyllida is no one′s fool.
407 pages, Paperback
First published February 6, 2001
367 people are currently reading
2594 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Laurens
207 books5,592 followersStephanie Laurens was born in Sri Lanka, which was at the time the British colony of Ceylon. When she was 5, her family moved to Melbourne, Australia, where she was raised. After continuing through school and earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry in Australia, Stephanie and her husband moved to Great Britain, taking one of the last true overland journeys from Katmandu to London.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
February 23, 2017
I read this for the "Headless" Woman square for Romance Bingo and my Series Headway selection.
This was pretty slow moving, its mostly a cozy mystery until 60% and out of nowhere we get something like this,
Then the story becomes a mystery with some pretty steamy sex scenes, quite the wake up call those scenes were, lol. Its well written but I found myself a bit bored, story just wasn't to my taste. The epilogue was sweet as we get reminiscing and looking to the future generation scenes from Honoria's (heroine from first in the series) point of view. It was a nice way to close out the Bar Cynsters and usher in the new, who look to be an honorary member and the girls of the Cynster pack to carry on the series.
This was pretty slow moving, its mostly a cozy mystery until 60% and out of nowhere we get something like this,
Then the story becomes a mystery with some pretty steamy sex scenes, quite the wake up call those scenes were, lol. Its well written but I found myself a bit bored, story just wasn't to my taste. The epilogue was sweet as we get reminiscing and looking to the future generation scenes from Honoria's (heroine from first in the series) point of view. It was a nice way to close out the Bar Cynsters and usher in the new, who look to be an honorary member and the girls of the Cynster pack to carry on the series.
November 13, 2018
Of course Lucifer's love story would begin with a murder!!
Lucifer has fled London to head to the country. All of his male cousins have fallen in love and married. Lucifer refuses to tempt fate and flees the ton and all its lovely women. He enjoys having a different woman in his bed each night but is willing to practice abstinence if it will save him from the parson's noose.
Fate has big plans for Lucifer and he has fled ...straight into the arms of his future wife.
Lucifer has fled London to head to the country. All of his male cousins have fallen in love and married. Lucifer refuses to tempt fate and flees the ton and all its lovely women. He enjoys having a different woman in his bed each night but is willing to practice abstinence if it will save him from the parson's noose.
Fate has big plans for Lucifer and he has fled ...straight into the arms of his future wife.
February 16, 2022
First half was a bit dull, but once they get together it's a nice ride. H here wasn't too dumb which helps. Also like the strong sensible h and her introduction to life of love and passion by H was very well done.
November 17, 2012
I absolutely loved the epilogue to this! I'm guessing the author had only planned to write the first six books in this series cause of the the way the epilogue read. Thankfully, she wrote more ;) I am anxious to get to Chillingsworth's book :)
September 19, 2025
I continue to love that there are plots in these books. And I love a heroine who quietly runs everything so much.
April 24, 2019
This is the sixth and supposedly last book in the series. Don’t worry though, there are more, many more in fact. I am guessing this was supposed to be the last but Laurens must have loved this series too much to give up on it at the end of this instalment.
This novel follows the story of the sixth member of the Bar Cynster, Lucifer. We find him in the lush landscape of Devon, where he meets his soon to be wife, Phyllida. This novel is not just only a Historical Romance, but there is a murder mystery plot running throughout.
So my thoughts on this are a lot improved of the last book in the series. Mainly this is because there was none of that repeated “I’m too proud to admit I’m in love” theme running through that seems to be a part of all romance novels. Phyllida is a breath of fresh air as a female character. Lucifer really does have his work cut out for him. Having said that, I really enjoyed Lucifer as a character too, he did not have this big ego and arrogant way about him that some strong male characters can be perceived as.
The beginning was very slow, it did take me a while to get into, but once I did I was hooked. It is raunchy, romantic and racey. It certainly had me wanting more, not only because I wanted the main characters to fall in love but I found myself caring about the mystery that was surrounding the story.
I have given this 3 stars as I did enjoy it. Would I recommend it? Probably not, it’s ok for an afternoon read but it’s nothing more than a nice romantic fancy however, I am interested to see where Laurens goes from here now that we have run out of men in the Bar Cynster.
This novel follows the story of the sixth member of the Bar Cynster, Lucifer. We find him in the lush landscape of Devon, where he meets his soon to be wife, Phyllida. This novel is not just only a Historical Romance, but there is a murder mystery plot running throughout.
So my thoughts on this are a lot improved of the last book in the series. Mainly this is because there was none of that repeated “I’m too proud to admit I’m in love” theme running through that seems to be a part of all romance novels. Phyllida is a breath of fresh air as a female character. Lucifer really does have his work cut out for him. Having said that, I really enjoyed Lucifer as a character too, he did not have this big ego and arrogant way about him that some strong male characters can be perceived as.
The beginning was very slow, it did take me a while to get into, but once I did I was hooked. It is raunchy, romantic and racey. It certainly had me wanting more, not only because I wanted the main characters to fall in love but I found myself caring about the mystery that was surrounding the story.
I have given this 3 stars as I did enjoy it. Would I recommend it? Probably not, it’s ok for an afternoon read but it’s nothing more than a nice romantic fancy however, I am interested to see where Laurens goes from here now that we have run out of men in the Bar Cynster.
April 30, 2020
We're back to the basics with the final book of the Bar Cynster (those are the 6 hottest rakish cousins rampaging through the ton in case you were wondering). The last of these hotties, Lucifer Cynster, just happens to visit his old friend and mentor on the day said friend and mentor is heinously MURDERED. In what might be the most batshit of all first chapters, Lucifer discovers a dead body, gets accidentally whacked over the head with a medieval halberd by someone who is NOT the murderer, and then experiences the most transcendent cheek caress of his life before falling into the deep, deep darkness of his thoughts. When he wakes up, he's in jail, being rescued by Phyllida (she of the sweet virgin angel cheek caress).
By the time you reach the end of the book, you've read about:
*Several near-death experiences including strangulation, incineration, and poker-coshing;
*Getting hot and heavy in the shrubbery;
*Getting undressed with the assistance of your dude's cavalry saber (we're talking about the real sword here);
*Catching a murderer;
*Getting married!
And if you've read all of the previous Bar Cynster entries, you get a sweet li'l epilogue tying up all of our couples with a cute red bow.
5-Word Summaries:
Laine: Corpse Adjacent Caress and Millinery
Meg: Marriage? Nah. Oh, hi, Phyllida…
www.linktr.ee/plottrysts
By the time you reach the end of the book, you've read about:
*Several near-death experiences including strangulation, incineration, and poker-coshing;
*Getting hot and heavy in the shrubbery;
*Getting undressed with the assistance of your dude's cavalry saber (we're talking about the real sword here);
*Catching a murderer;
*Getting married!
And if you've read all of the previous Bar Cynster entries, you get a sweet li'l epilogue tying up all of our couples with a cute red bow.
5-Word Summaries:
Laine: Corpse Adjacent Caress and Millinery
Meg: Marriage? Nah. Oh, hi, Phyllida…
www.linktr.ee/plottrysts
May 6, 2022
All About Love
4 Stars
Lucifer Cynster, the last unmarried member of the Bar Cynster, believes he can escape his fate by leaving London. Little does he know that his destiny awaits in the small village of Colyton in the countryside of Devon where he literally stumbles over a body. Soon Lucifer finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation while wooing the willful and independent, Phyllida Talent, a woman even more averse to marriage than Lucifer.
One of the best in the series thus far.
Phyllida's spirit and Lucifer's protectiveness make for highly entertaining reading as these two unlikely lovers push each other's buttons at every opportunity. Phyllida is cool, calm and collected and her aversion to marriage is quite understandable given the poor choice of suitors in her vicinity.
Lucifer is a totally swoonworthy hero and his attempts at wooing the reluctant Phyllida lead to some very amusing scenes.
The Agatha Christie type mystery is an added bonus as Lucifer and Phyllida question the various villagers and uncover the secrets of a small town. The climax and resolution are exciting and all the loose ends are tied up neatly.
The final epilogue is wonderful and gives the reader a sense of coming full circle :0)
4 Stars
Lucifer Cynster, the last unmarried member of the Bar Cynster, believes he can escape his fate by leaving London. Little does he know that his destiny awaits in the small village of Colyton in the countryside of Devon where he literally stumbles over a body. Soon Lucifer finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation while wooing the willful and independent, Phyllida Talent, a woman even more averse to marriage than Lucifer.
One of the best in the series thus far.
Phyllida's spirit and Lucifer's protectiveness make for highly entertaining reading as these two unlikely lovers push each other's buttons at every opportunity. Phyllida is cool, calm and collected and her aversion to marriage is quite understandable given the poor choice of suitors in her vicinity.
Lucifer is a totally swoonworthy hero and his attempts at wooing the reluctant Phyllida lead to some very amusing scenes.
The Agatha Christie type mystery is an added bonus as Lucifer and Phyllida question the various villagers and uncover the secrets of a small town. The climax and resolution are exciting and all the loose ends are tied up neatly.
The final epilogue is wonderful and gives the reader a sense of coming full circle :0)
April 6, 2022
A little dull.
July 2, 2021
I love this series. This Historical-Romance author can write sexy dialogue like no other I have read. A lot of other authors could learn a thing or two from Stephanie Laurens. And, a mystery! What more can a reader want? Oh yeah, a touch of humor. That's here too.
Alasdair Cynster, aka Lucifer, is the last of the Cynster male cousins known as the Bar Cynster still unmarried and he is taking extreme measures to stay that way. He has decided to visit a friend and fellow collector, who has asked his opinion on a piece he has acquired, in Devonshire far from the matchmaking mamas of the ton. If his purpose was to avoid meeting his soul mate, he failed. Not only is he struck dumbfounded, he is literally struck - unconscious. Upon arriving at his friend's house he finds his host dead.
Phyllida Tallent has run the show for her father since she was 12 years old. She is capable, take charge and in control of the small village, which has lead her to be to a willful and independent beauty who is not at all interested in marriage. After she collides with Lucifer, well, it's Cynster history in the making. Lucifer, like all Cynsters is very protective to the women around him. When an attempt is make on Phyllida's life, Lucifer is there to try and protect a very independent Phyllida while trying to solve his friend's murder and find the mysterious object that was so important it got him murdered.
Alasdair Cynster, aka Lucifer, is the last of the Cynster male cousins known as the Bar Cynster still unmarried and he is taking extreme measures to stay that way. He has decided to visit a friend and fellow collector, who has asked his opinion on a piece he has acquired, in Devonshire far from the matchmaking mamas of the ton. If his purpose was to avoid meeting his soul mate, he failed. Not only is he struck dumbfounded, he is literally struck - unconscious. Upon arriving at his friend's house he finds his host dead.
Phyllida Tallent has run the show for her father since she was 12 years old. She is capable, take charge and in control of the small village, which has lead her to be to a willful and independent beauty who is not at all interested in marriage. After she collides with Lucifer, well, it's Cynster history in the making. Lucifer, like all Cynsters is very protective to the women around him. When an attempt is make on Phyllida's life, Lucifer is there to try and protect a very independent Phyllida while trying to solve his friend's murder and find the mysterious object that was so important it got him murdered.
October 15, 2020
3.5/5
Con este libro acabo oficialmente a los 6 primos Cynster iniciales.
Este se centra en Lucifer (Alasdair), último primo soltero quien posee un “talento” para coleccionar y reconocer antigüedades; y Phillipa a quien recalcan como una mujer independiente (como viene siendo habitual). Él para huir de su destino el matrimonio se dirige al campo para visitar a su amigo Horacio sin embargo cuando llega se encuentra el cadáver de su amigo y sorpresivamente es atacado por la espalda, asimismo nos muestran que Phillipa se encontraba en el lugar de los hechos al momento del accidente y nos complementa la historia.
Lucifer al recuperarse se dedicara a investigar el asesinato de Horacio, por lo sucedido Phillipa se siente comprometida a ayudarlo en sus indagaciones, todo esto va uniendo a los protagonistas y construyendo su romance.
Punto a favor: en este libro no se siente tan presente el destino irremediable del matrimonio. La insistencia por parte de él y la negativa tajante por parte de ella. Mejora ligeramente respecto a los 2 anteriores. Aun así entre sin muchas expectativas a este libro, más por terminar con los primos que porque quisiera.
Lo que realmente le quita muchos puntos es todo el desarrollo del misterio (asesinato), como siempre tenía más potencial y estuve más pendiente que en los libros anteriores. Sin embargo el asesino no me termino de convencer y muchísimo menos sus razones (Se sintió que la autora quería acabarlo sin saber muy bien como).
Continuare con la serie (mi pequeño TOC), pero de momento tomare un break. En los futuros no espero demasiadas sorpresas. [En estos momentos busco algo que me enganche y me guste mas]
Con este libro acabo oficialmente a los 6 primos Cynster iniciales.
Este se centra en Lucifer (Alasdair), último primo soltero quien posee un “talento” para coleccionar y reconocer antigüedades; y Phillipa a quien recalcan como una mujer independiente (como viene siendo habitual). Él para huir de su destino el matrimonio se dirige al campo para visitar a su amigo Horacio sin embargo cuando llega se encuentra el cadáver de su amigo y sorpresivamente es atacado por la espalda, asimismo nos muestran que Phillipa se encontraba en el lugar de los hechos al momento del accidente y nos complementa la historia.
Lucifer al recuperarse se dedicara a investigar el asesinato de Horacio, por lo sucedido Phillipa se siente comprometida a ayudarlo en sus indagaciones, todo esto va uniendo a los protagonistas y construyendo su romance.
Punto a favor: en este libro no se siente tan presente el destino irremediable del matrimonio. La insistencia por parte de él y la negativa tajante por parte de ella. Mejora ligeramente respecto a los 2 anteriores. Aun así entre sin muchas expectativas a este libro, más por terminar con los primos que porque quisiera.
Lo que realmente le quita muchos puntos es todo el desarrollo del misterio (asesinato), como siempre tenía más potencial y estuve más pendiente que en los libros anteriores. Sin embargo el asesino no me termino de convencer y muchísimo menos sus razones (Se sintió que la autora quería acabarlo sin saber muy bien como).
Continuare con la serie (mi pequeño TOC), pero de momento tomare un break. En los futuros no espero demasiadas sorpresas. [En estos momentos busco algo que me enganche y me guste mas]
October 13, 2014
Author: Stephanie Laurens
First published: 2001
Length: 407 pages
Setting: Devon, 1820 (Regency).
Sex: Explicit. Reasonably frequent. Appropriate for the storyline.
The last of the Bar Cynster stories, the first sub-series of the ongoing Cynster family saga.
A cozy mystery (like A Rake's Vow) with explicit sex scenes.
Lucifer is an interesting, solid character but Phyllida deserves a Gibbs slap for being so arrogantly stoopid.
Very, very hot sex scenes, including one with sword.
We are frequently told Phyllida is the village carer -- she cares and gives of herself, always there for others etc etc as if that made her a good person, or a better person. And yet she seemed to use that title, of carer, to arrogantly control the lives of the people around her. She's the Rachel Lynde of Devon.
And I didn't particularly care for her.
Could have been better.
Cynster Family Saga Series, Bar Cynster:
Book 1 Devil's Bride (1998) - Honoria Anstruther-Wetherby and Sylvester "Devil" Cynster, Duke of St. Ives, Aug 1818.
Book 2 A Rake's Vow (1998) - Spencer "Vane" Cynster and Patience Debbington, Oct 1819
Book 3 Scandal's Bride (1999) - Catriona Hennessy and Richard "Scandal" Cynster, Dec 1819
Book 4 A Rogue's Proposal (1999) - Harold "Demon" Cynster and Felicity "Flick" Parteger, Mar 1820
Book 5 A Secret Love (2000) - Rupert "Gabriel" Cynster and Alathea Morwellan, Apr 1820
Book 6 All About Love (2001) - Alasdair "Lucifer" Cynster and Phyllida Tallent, Jun 1820
References:
Author's website: http://www.stephanielaurens.com/
(ISBN 9780380812011)
-CR-
First published: 2001
Length: 407 pages
Setting: Devon, 1820 (Regency).
Sex: Explicit. Reasonably frequent. Appropriate for the storyline.
The last of the Bar Cynster stories, the first sub-series of the ongoing Cynster family saga.
A cozy mystery (like A Rake's Vow) with explicit sex scenes.
Lucifer is an interesting, solid character but Phyllida deserves a Gibbs slap for being so arrogantly stoopid.
Very, very hot sex scenes, including one with sword.
We are frequently told Phyllida is the village carer -- she cares and gives of herself, always there for others etc etc as if that made her a good person, or a better person. And yet she seemed to use that title, of carer, to arrogantly control the lives of the people around her. She's the Rachel Lynde of Devon.
And I didn't particularly care for her.
Could have been better.
Cynster Family Saga Series, Bar Cynster:
Book 1 Devil's Bride (1998) - Honoria Anstruther-Wetherby and Sylvester "Devil" Cynster, Duke of St. Ives, Aug 1818.
Book 2 A Rake's Vow (1998) - Spencer "Vane" Cynster and Patience Debbington, Oct 1819
Book 3 Scandal's Bride (1999) - Catriona Hennessy and Richard "Scandal" Cynster, Dec 1819
Book 4 A Rogue's Proposal (1999) - Harold "Demon" Cynster and Felicity "Flick" Parteger, Mar 1820
Book 5 A Secret Love (2000) - Rupert "Gabriel" Cynster and Alathea Morwellan, Apr 1820
Book 6 All About Love (2001) - Alasdair "Lucifer" Cynster and Phyllida Tallent, Jun 1820
References:
Author's website: http://www.stephanielaurens.com/
(ISBN 9780380812011)
-CR-
October 6, 2018
Bon peut-être que je ne suis pas très objective (et qu'il mérite 4 étoiles et non 5 à cause du comportement de l'héroïne à une ou deux reprises) mais ce livre était vraiment super, du grand Stephanie Laurens comme je les aime. Des sentiments présents dès le début qui évoluent, un héros qui ne veut pas subir le même sort que les hommes de sa famille (précédents héros lol) mais qui succombe vite. Un peu de suspense. Attention par contre à celles qui adorent les conflits entre les héros: il n'y en a pas. Mais pour les autres, vous passerez un super moment avec ce livre, malgré ses 623 pages, on le lit très vite.
December 8, 2020
This was a fairly run of the mill historical romance with nothing that really stood out as special to me. I mostly liked both Phyllida and Lucifer except later in the book when it is obvious Phyllida's life is in danger and she keeps making choices that made me think she was too stupid to live. I also felt like the murder mystery aspect of the story was underwhelming and both the murderer and the final reveal of what he was after felt like the author just pulled it out of her ass. The sex scenes were pretty well done and got hotter later in the book once Phyllida was no longer a "precious virgin". I also didn't enjoy when the other Cynster men got involved later in the book and they became super patronizing of the women. So not a series I'm going to be seeking out in the future.
July 19, 2018
Me gusto como termino esta partes de los Cynster, me parece chevere que como la escritora mezcla suspenso y romance
Lucifer huyendo de su destino llegó a él como la mayoría de sus primos, que en el lugar menos esperado encontraron a sus esposas. Phyllida (que nombre más raro) me gusto, por su independencia y como le ayudaba a esclarecer la muerte de Horatio
Lucifer huyendo de su destino llegó a él como la mayoría de sus primos, que en el lugar menos esperado encontraron a sus esposas. Phyllida (que nombre más raro) me gusto, por su independencia y como le ayudaba a esclarecer la muerte de Horatio
September 27, 2020
2.5 stars rounded up. This was a bit tedious in places and had multiple, considerable, holes in the plot. I feel like with a bit more effort Laurens could have come up with *good* reasons for things playing out how she wanted, but instead just settled for 'reasons'. Often that necessitated the characters being daft, which is also irritating. But, I didn't dislike either of them, and it was otherwise kind of 'meh' so I'm okay with rounding up.
June 15, 2018
3.5
De todos los Cynster, Lucifer es el que más me gustó, tiene encanto puro.
La historia es sencilla, a tramos lenta, pero me entretuvo bastante.
De todos los Cynster, Lucifer es el que más me gustó, tiene encanto puro.
La historia es sencilla, a tramos lenta, pero me entretuvo bastante.
December 27, 2020
And all of the members of the Bar Cynster surrender to their fate.
In line with the Cynster tradition, Lucifer's book starts off on a very intriguing note: he stumbles upon the dead body of his friend and mentor, Horatio, and is rendered unconscious (albeit, accidentally) by the heroine who thought Lucifer was the murderer. The whole situation was comedic, despite the fact that Lucifer's friend had just been murdered. Needless to say, it was a great start to the last Bar Cynster's story. However, as with most of its predecessors, All About Love suffered from a slump in the middle, the author predictably stretching out the plot with a murder that could have been easily solved in the first third of the book.
The romance, on the other hand, was well-written. It did not blossom too slowly nor too quickly. It just happened. What infuriated me was Phyllida's reluctance to tell Lucifer about the brown hat she saw on that fateful day. Understandably, she did not want to betray her friend's confidence (even though Mary-Anne was the stupidest and most annoying bitch ever; #sorrynotsorry I wanted to slap the shit out of her and Robert). But she could have revealed the existence of the brown hat very early on, while keeping Mary-Anne's stupid secret. Again, this slowed down the murder plot, which could have been solved very early on.
I liked Phyllida in the beginning, but then she seemed to have caught the stupidity flu from her stupid friend Mary-Anne. The culprit was aware that Phyllida had seen his hat and so he tried getting rid of her. After having had two attempts on her life, you'd think that Phyllida would be more wary and careful. But nooooooooo. Being the "smart" woman that she was, she walked into an obvious trap. She had to go to some creepy cottage alone by herself after receiving a well-written letter from a maid (who in reality was illiterate). Girl, please. So much for being the logical and sensible woman she was supposed to be. While the other heroines in this series have been in dangerous situations, nothing annoyed me more than Phyllida's "sensible decision" to go meet someone at some creepy cottage. I understand Honoria's and Alathea's situations a lot better because Honoria did not have a choice and Alathea was essentially pressured to leave without Gabriel. Phyllida reminded me of how Flick decided to go to the masquerade party by herself. But Phyllida's actions were stupider than Flick's because the damn girl was almost murdered TWICE!
Moving on to the *drum roll* infamous brown hat...what differentiated this one from other brown hats?? It was mentioned that it was a regular brown hat, so how was it also easily identifiable?
The mystery, like I've already mentioned, could have been solved early on in the book. The uncovering of the culprit was less predictable, but it was also not surprising to find out who it was. I was hoping for some kind of twist. I really should stop holding out hope for the mystery plots in Cynster books.
I feel like this book had similarities with the previous books, aside from the Cynster cookie-cutter plot. For instance, it is similar to Vane's book in regards to involving the supporting characters in the unmasking of the culprits during the climax. Some tropes from Demon's book are also present in this one: breeches-wearing heroines, the hero escaping to the country, heroines who act stupidly in the face of danger). Lucifer himself was very laid-back like Devil; Lucifer is perhaps the most easy-going Cynster. Similarly to what Richard had done for Catriona, Lucifer restrained his alpha male propensities to allow Phyllida her independence. Both Richard and Lucifer were very calm and patient with their ladies.
Overall, my favourite Cynster of the Bar Cynster is Gabriel, followed closely by Devil. I also enjoyed their stories the most in the series.
I liked that Ms. Laurens ended Lucifer's book with a family get-together. It was apt that the last Bar Cynster novel ended with Devil and Honoria. Chillingworth's appearance made the ending more noteworthy. I am very excited to read our honorary Cynster's story.
In line with the Cynster tradition, Lucifer's book starts off on a very intriguing note: he stumbles upon the dead body of his friend and mentor, Horatio, and is rendered unconscious (albeit, accidentally) by the heroine who thought Lucifer was the murderer. The whole situation was comedic, despite the fact that Lucifer's friend had just been murdered. Needless to say, it was a great start to the last Bar Cynster's story. However, as with most of its predecessors, All About Love suffered from a slump in the middle, the author predictably stretching out the plot with a murder that could have been easily solved in the first third of the book.
The romance, on the other hand, was well-written. It did not blossom too slowly nor too quickly. It just happened. What infuriated me was Phyllida's reluctance to tell Lucifer about the brown hat she saw on that fateful day. Understandably, she did not want to betray her friend's confidence (even though Mary-Anne was the stupidest and most annoying bitch ever; #sorrynotsorry I wanted to slap the shit out of her and Robert). But she could have revealed the existence of the brown hat very early on, while keeping Mary-Anne's stupid secret. Again, this slowed down the murder plot, which could have been solved very early on.
I liked Phyllida in the beginning, but then she seemed to have caught the stupidity flu from her stupid friend Mary-Anne. The culprit was aware that Phyllida had seen his hat and so he tried getting rid of her. After having had two attempts on her life, you'd think that Phyllida would be more wary and careful. But nooooooooo. Being the "smart" woman that she was, she walked into an obvious trap. She had to go to some creepy cottage alone by herself after receiving a well-written letter from a maid (who in reality was illiterate). Girl, please. So much for being the logical and sensible woman she was supposed to be. While the other heroines in this series have been in dangerous situations, nothing annoyed me more than Phyllida's "sensible decision" to go meet someone at some creepy cottage. I understand Honoria's and Alathea's situations a lot better because Honoria did not have a choice and Alathea was essentially pressured to leave without Gabriel. Phyllida reminded me of how Flick decided to go to the masquerade party by herself. But Phyllida's actions were stupider than Flick's because the damn girl was almost murdered TWICE!
Moving on to the *drum roll* infamous brown hat...what differentiated this one from other brown hats?? It was mentioned that it was a regular brown hat, so how was it also easily identifiable?
The mystery, like I've already mentioned, could have been solved early on in the book. The uncovering of the culprit was less predictable, but it was also not surprising to find out who it was. I was hoping for some kind of twist. I really should stop holding out hope for the mystery plots in Cynster books.
I feel like this book had similarities with the previous books, aside from the Cynster cookie-cutter plot. For instance, it is similar to Vane's book in regards to involving the supporting characters in the unmasking of the culprits during the climax. Some tropes from Demon's book are also present in this one: breeches-wearing heroines, the hero escaping to the country, heroines who act stupidly in the face of danger). Lucifer himself was very laid-back like Devil; Lucifer is perhaps the most easy-going Cynster. Similarly to what Richard had done for Catriona, Lucifer restrained his alpha male propensities to allow Phyllida her independence. Both Richard and Lucifer were very calm and patient with their ladies.
Overall, my favourite Cynster of the Bar Cynster is Gabriel, followed closely by Devil. I also enjoyed their stories the most in the series.
I liked that Ms. Laurens ended Lucifer's book with a family get-together. It was apt that the last Bar Cynster novel ended with Devil and Honoria. Chillingworth's appearance made the ending more noteworthy. I am very excited to read our honorary Cynster's story.
November 21, 2012
Could've sworn I had this one, I specifically remember my friend in high school buying me a copy for Christmas 'round 2000-01 but a mad search through all of my many boxes of books in the basement turned up absolutely 0 copies of this book. Sad :( Must've sold it back in '03-'04 when I (stupidly) put a bunch of my books on half.com in an attempt to make some money. Never again! I've a sinking feeling some of my other books I'm thinking I own are missing due to the same cause too. Double sad. And no longer a sinking feeling but a proven fact... I've got a lot of books to re-acquire :(
Finally got a copy! Read it for the monthly buddy read in RLftCI. Looks like Lucifer is just Devil/Vane/Richard/Demon/Gabriel with a different name, but I was so hoping he'd do something to really impress me... Ok, I take that back a little, because I did like Demon quite well, at least I think I did. Well, I've kinda liked all of them, but they're just all so similar, and none of them have really blown me away, like made me lust after them, y'know? They're all good guys, and they've got all the right traits; the protectiveness (to the point of overdoing it of course), the smouldering sexiness and the legendary skills in that arena, the strength, the dedication. Yea, they're all good, but they all were just so similar. But I liked this one well enough by the end. I especially enjoyed the mystery in this one, it kept me guessing to the end. Even when it seemed they had a clear suspect, I still wasn't sure myself, until he was caught red-handed. It was very well done. I thought Phyllida, however, was super-similar to Alathea in the previous book. But she was alright. I liked how she never got a ninny-headed, or weak and frail. She stayed strong, and it was a good thing. I liked Lucifer well enough by the end too, and it was very, very good that he wasn't all stoic and stuff, and let her know that he loved her. They went well together. The middle of the story slumped a little when no progress was being made on the investigation, and not much other than them slowly falling for each other was going on, but the last 5 chapters or so made up for it. That was when I really got into the story. It was also nice to see Demon and Flick show up, 'specially as they've been my favorite couple so far. The epilogue was nice too, the whole big family coming together, the new little babies for the couples I've come to know. It was neat.
I'm dying to get to Chillingworth's story though. We're gonna do him on December 3rd, but I couldn't resist reading the first couple of chapters this morning, I was too excited. I put it back on the shelf though. I'll have the anticipation of coming back home to read his book to get me through the next week of visiting in-laws :)
Finally got a copy! Read it for the monthly buddy read in RLftCI. Looks like Lucifer is just Devil/Vane/Richard/Demon/Gabriel with a different name, but I was so hoping he'd do something to really impress me... Ok, I take that back a little, because I did like Demon quite well, at least I think I did. Well, I've kinda liked all of them, but they're just all so similar, and none of them have really blown me away, like made me lust after them, y'know? They're all good guys, and they've got all the right traits; the protectiveness (to the point of overdoing it of course), the smouldering sexiness and the legendary skills in that arena, the strength, the dedication. Yea, they're all good, but they all were just so similar. But I liked this one well enough by the end. I especially enjoyed the mystery in this one, it kept me guessing to the end. Even when it seemed they had a clear suspect, I still wasn't sure myself, until he was caught red-handed. It was very well done. I thought Phyllida, however, was super-similar to Alathea in the previous book. But she was alright. I liked how she never got a ninny-headed, or weak and frail. She stayed strong, and it was a good thing. I liked Lucifer well enough by the end too, and it was very, very good that he wasn't all stoic and stuff, and let her know that he loved her. They went well together. The middle of the story slumped a little when no progress was being made on the investigation, and not much other than them slowly falling for each other was going on, but the last 5 chapters or so made up for it. That was when I really got into the story. It was also nice to see Demon and Flick show up, 'specially as they've been my favorite couple so far. The epilogue was nice too, the whole big family coming together, the new little babies for the couples I've come to know. It was neat.
I'm dying to get to Chillingworth's story though. We're gonna do him on December 3rd, but I couldn't resist reading the first couple of chapters this morning, I was too excited. I put it back on the shelf though. I'll have the anticipation of coming back home to read his book to get me through the next week of visiting in-laws :)
February 8, 2013
I don't remember this story at all of course it has been 12 years since I last read it. I do love how fate just slaps these men up side the head with the woman that will be their love. I have loved all these guys and Alaisdair "Lucifer" is no different. They are all kind and considerate when they are around children and old ladies. They are honorable and loyal to a fault. They are also passionate, possessive, and overly protective. I did like that Lucifer was willing to let Phyllida help with the investigation of Horatio's murder. The villain in this story was a different surprise as well as the motive for all the killings. I was glad that Ms. Laurens didn't shy away from not keeping Phyllida all safe and happy and secure in the knowledge that no one would hurt her just because she was a woman and rule her world. That is a mistake so many writers make. If a man wants to hurt or kill a woman chances are very good it will happen I don't care who the woman is.
I also like the setting of this story. The reader get to see what like is like in a small village not far from the coast. Ms Laurens writes about smugglers and the attraction it had for the men that lived in these villages. She also brings to life the differences between life in London and life in the county. I was glad that Lucifer finally found a place to settle and someone that would keep him happy. I also enjoyed the last chapter with all the cousins together with their wives and children. It was nice to get an update on what has happen and how everyone is doing. This story is a wonderful addition to the series and readers will be very pleased.
I also like the setting of this story. The reader get to see what like is like in a small village not far from the coast. Ms Laurens writes about smugglers and the attraction it had for the men that lived in these villages. She also brings to life the differences between life in London and life in the county. I was glad that Lucifer finally found a place to settle and someone that would keep him happy. I also enjoyed the last chapter with all the cousins together with their wives and children. It was nice to get an update on what has happen and how everyone is doing. This story is a wonderful addition to the series and readers will be very pleased.
June 11, 2017
Another Cynster finds his match and yet again, I can't say I was all that invested in his story, from the mystery to the romance, to everything in between.
Not liking the heroines the author writes is becoming a pattern and one Phyllida fit too, as she seemed to confuse independence with stupidity, going to a mysterious secret meeting by herself when it's a known fact that someone is trying to kill her.
I have read six books in the series so far and, while the stories are okay, they just don't seem to draw me in as much as I would have liked.
It might be in part because of Simon Preble, the audiobook narrator, who, despite bringing the characters to life, might be the reason why I find many of them irritating, especially if they're female...
I will try listening to the next book in the series, All About Passion, and Chillington, the "honorary Cynster's" story, but if my feelings remain lukewarm I'll either switch to reading the rest of the books or put the series on the "on hold" pile.
Not liking the heroines the author writes is becoming a pattern and one Phyllida fit too, as she seemed to confuse independence with stupidity, going to a mysterious secret meeting by herself when it's a known fact that someone is trying to kill her.
I have read six books in the series so far and, while the stories are okay, they just don't seem to draw me in as much as I would have liked.
It might be in part because of Simon Preble, the audiobook narrator, who, despite bringing the characters to life, might be the reason why I find many of them irritating, especially if they're female...
I will try listening to the next book in the series, All About Passion, and Chillington, the "honorary Cynster's" story, but if my feelings remain lukewarm I'll either switch to reading the rest of the books or put the series on the "on hold" pile.
December 30, 2019
Sexy suspenseful Regency romance
Start with murder add a Cynster and watch the tale unfold. This is the last of the original Bar Cynster novels and has many off shoot series involving this large, loyal and loving family.
Start with murder add a Cynster and watch the tale unfold. This is the last of the original Bar Cynster novels and has many off shoot series involving this large, loyal and loving family.
October 17, 2024
This was one of my favorites from the Cynster series. A fun murder mystery plot that granted doesn’t have a lot of substance, but I’m not expecting that from a romance novel. What it does with the plot is very good considering the genre. And the two main characters are wonderful. Phyllida has a strong personality for the historical era, and I enjoyed her character.
December 22, 2023
3.75/5.
May 26, 2024
What can I say
As seems to be normal now with this author to me, this storyline just flowed so well. It was great seeing this storyline develop from some comedic aspects to the more serious ones. The characters as normal were well developed and grew as you read. You have to concentrate on the book so you don't miss something that is vital later. As always, I loved this read, but that's OK as there are plenty more.
As seems to be normal now with this author to me, this storyline just flowed so well. It was great seeing this storyline develop from some comedic aspects to the more serious ones. The characters as normal were well developed and grew as you read. You have to concentrate on the book so you don't miss something that is vital later. As always, I loved this read, but that's OK as there are plenty more.
Read
August 31, 2024It JUST hit me that this has the same title as the bell hooks book and now I cannot think of anything else
November 14, 2025
20 stars fr⭐️
August 16, 2019
Story of the marriage of the last Bar Cynster - Lucifer. Lucifer is a collector and trying to avoid marriage. He leaves the day of his brother Gabriel's wedding for the sleepy Devon town of Colyton to meet with another collector friend/mentor. He arrives on Sunday morning and finds the house open - and then he finds his friend's recently murdered body just before being coshed on the head. Phyllida Tallent is the 24-year-old daughter of the local magistrate and practically runs the town. She was in Horatio's house to recover a friend's letters when Lucifer arrives and she accidentally knocks him out.
Lucifer knows it was her and more over, finds she's his soulmate even though she denies it. Together they try to find the murderer and solve the mystery, which eventually they do.
Reasonably well done "who done it". Lots of references to the other 5 Bar Cynster siblings, but not too distracting. Leaves the door open for stories about the sisters. Fairly explicit sex scenes.
Lucifer knows it was her and more over, finds she's his soulmate even though she denies it. Together they try to find the murderer and solve the mystery, which eventually they do.
Reasonably well done "who done it". Lots of references to the other 5 Bar Cynster siblings, but not too distracting. Leaves the door open for stories about the sisters. Fairly explicit sex scenes.
June 13, 2015
Stephanie Laurens is a very talented author. This book is # 6 in the Cynster series.
And for me, some of this book seemed like an instant replay of some of the other Cynster books.
This is a darn good book on its own merit. And if a reader has not read any other books in the series, they will be able to easily follow what is happening.
“Lucifer” (Alasdair is his actual name )has just seen his brother marry and to him that wedding has made him realize that he has no interest in marriage. He has decided to visit a fellow collector and old friend, Horace. Horace has found a treasure of some sort and has asked Lucifer to come look at and help evaluate it.
It is a shock when Lucifer walks into Horace's house and finds him murdered. The solution to the murder is a mystery which involves many local people. Horace was a well liked man and no one in the village is comfortable with the thought that a murderer might be in the area. Lucifer is a former military man and he vows that he will not allow anyone to get away with murdering his good friend.
Phyllida is a young woman who lives next to Horatio's home and she is involved in another mystery. She came into the home shortly after the murder, because she is trying to recover some letters for a close friend. Because of a promise, she has determined that she must keep certain information from Lucifer. That seems to go on much too long for someone who wants to help solve the murder.
Phyllida is a competent woman who manages her father's home, and many of the lives of people in the village. She is involved in all aspects of country life and plays an important part in helping many of the people who are her friends.
Slowly but surely Phyllida and Lucifer come to build a relationship based on their shared search for the murderer and also a growing physical and emotional attraction.
The plot is interesting but at times I felt there were too many repetitious scenes. And I hate to admit it, but early on I knew who the villain was and I was right. There are several secondary plot lines which add texture to the story.
The characters of both Phyllida and Lucifer are interesting and well developed. I like the fact that neither one of them started out feeling that there was any advantage to marriage. I believe it was because they did not know what was truly important in their lives. As they re-evaluate, their ideas on marriage and one another change a great deal.
The secondary characters were assets to the story and each of them provided a little more interest for the reader.
This is a well written book. For me, at times, it seemed to be derivative of other books in the series but it is still a good romance with a mystery attached.
And for me, some of this book seemed like an instant replay of some of the other Cynster books.
This is a darn good book on its own merit. And if a reader has not read any other books in the series, they will be able to easily follow what is happening.
“Lucifer” (Alasdair is his actual name )has just seen his brother marry and to him that wedding has made him realize that he has no interest in marriage. He has decided to visit a fellow collector and old friend, Horace. Horace has found a treasure of some sort and has asked Lucifer to come look at and help evaluate it.
It is a shock when Lucifer walks into Horace's house and finds him murdered. The solution to the murder is a mystery which involves many local people. Horace was a well liked man and no one in the village is comfortable with the thought that a murderer might be in the area. Lucifer is a former military man and he vows that he will not allow anyone to get away with murdering his good friend.
Phyllida is a young woman who lives next to Horatio's home and she is involved in another mystery. She came into the home shortly after the murder, because she is trying to recover some letters for a close friend. Because of a promise, she has determined that she must keep certain information from Lucifer. That seems to go on much too long for someone who wants to help solve the murder.
Phyllida is a competent woman who manages her father's home, and many of the lives of people in the village. She is involved in all aspects of country life and plays an important part in helping many of the people who are her friends.
Slowly but surely Phyllida and Lucifer come to build a relationship based on their shared search for the murderer and also a growing physical and emotional attraction.
The plot is interesting but at times I felt there were too many repetitious scenes. And I hate to admit it, but early on I knew who the villain was and I was right. There are several secondary plot lines which add texture to the story.
The characters of both Phyllida and Lucifer are interesting and well developed. I like the fact that neither one of them started out feeling that there was any advantage to marriage. I believe it was because they did not know what was truly important in their lives. As they re-evaluate, their ideas on marriage and one another change a great deal.
The secondary characters were assets to the story and each of them provided a little more interest for the reader.
This is a well written book. For me, at times, it seemed to be derivative of other books in the series but it is still a good romance with a mystery attached.
May 23, 2011
the last unwed bar cynster.....
alasdair cynster or biasa dipanggil lucifer setelah pernikahan gabriel langsung ngacir ke colyton, desa tempat temannya (yg aq lupa namanya) sekarang tinggal sepeninggal sang istri.
pikirnya lucifer sih dengan dia pergi ke desa terpencil dia akan terbebas dari keluarga2 wanitanya yg mak comblang berat serta dari sorotan ton yg sekarang terarah padanya sbg bujangan cynster terakhir yg belum menikah.
pdhl oleh yg lain lucifer udah dibilangi, percuma dia melarikan diri ke desa terpencil sekalipun tp lucifer cuek aja.....
kedatangan lucifer di colyton (moga2 benar nama desanya)disambut kehebohan.
sahabat baiknya ditemukan tewas & lucifer terkapar kena pukulan dikepalanya.
ups.....
phyllida tallent, tetangga disitu, yg ternyata penyebab lucifer terkapar (xixixixixi lucifer dikalahkan wanita) membawa lucifer kerumahnya & mengobati lucifer.
all about love ceritanya lumayan cepat dibandingkan scandal's bride & lebih penuh intrik.
lucifer, pewaris properti & koleksi sahabatnya itu, merasa harus mencari tau misteri kematian sahabatnya.
jadilah lucifer dibantu phyllida mencari pembunuhnya.
sementara itu lucifer juga harus melindungi phyllida dari para pengagumnya jg dari seseorang yg mengincar nyawa phyllida.
phyllida sendiri ampun2 keras kepalanya.
aq ngakak berat si lucifer nyuruh phyllida "stay here" sampe 4x tp ga digubris sama sekali oleh phyllida.
ngelus dada bener deh lucifer ketemu wanita paling keras kepala.
untuk ukuran seorang rake lucifer tenang sekali mengakui perasaannya.
9 hari kenal phyllida, lucifer dengan suksesnya berhasil mendapatkan hati & juga phyllida dalam dekapannya.
ga ada acara main tarik ulur disini.
lucifer & phyllida dari awal dah terobsesi satu sama lain.
yahhhh secara didesa bgt lucifer ga punya saingan yg berarti.
ada 3 saingan para pengagum phyllida eh ke 3-3nya antik2 semua ya jelas kalah total oleh lucifer
hidup lucifer
hidup cynster
alasdair cynster or biasa dipanggil lucifer setelah pernikahan gabriel langsung ngacir ke colyton, desa tempat temannya (yg aq lupa namanya) sekarang tinggal sepeninggal sang istri.
pikirnya lucifer sih dengan dia pergi ke desa terpencil dia akan terbebas dari keluarga2 wanitanya yg mak comblang berat serta dari sorotan ton yg sekarang terarah padanya sbg bujangan cynster terakhir yg belum menikah.
pdhl oleh yg lain lucifer udah dibilangi, percuma dia melarikan diri ke desa terpencil sekalipun tp lucifer cuek aja.....
kedatangan lucifer di colyton (moga2 benar nama desanya)disambut kehebohan.
sahabat baiknya ditemukan tewas & lucifer terkapar kena pukulan dikepalanya.
ups.....
phyllida tallent, tetangga disitu, yg ternyata penyebab lucifer terkapar (xixixixixi lucifer dikalahkan wanita) membawa lucifer kerumahnya & mengobati lucifer.
all about love ceritanya lumayan cepat dibandingkan scandal's bride & lebih penuh intrik.
lucifer, pewaris properti & koleksi sahabatnya itu, merasa harus mencari tau misteri kematian sahabatnya.
jadilah lucifer dibantu phyllida mencari pembunuhnya.
sementara itu lucifer juga harus melindungi phyllida dari para pengagumnya jg dari seseorang yg mengincar nyawa phyllida.
phyllida sendiri ampun2 keras kepalanya.
aq ngakak berat si lucifer nyuruh phyllida "stay here" sampe 4x tp ga digubris sama sekali oleh phyllida.
ngelus dada bener deh lucifer ketemu wanita paling keras kepala.
untuk ukuran seorang rake lucifer tenang sekali mengakui perasaannya.
9 hari kenal phyllida, lucifer dengan suksesnya berhasil mendapatkan hati & juga phyllida dalam dekapannya.
ga ada acara main tarik ulur disini.
lucifer & phyllida dari awal dah terobsesi satu sama lain.
yahhhh secara didesa bgt lucifer ga punya saingan yg berarti.
ada 3 saingan para pengagum phyllida eh ke 3-3nya antik2 semua ya jelas kalah total oleh lucifer
hidup lucifer
hidup cynster
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