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Masquerading Mistresses #3

Misadventures in Seduction

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With five siblings to care for, Prudence Hixsby 's duty comes first, even if it means becoming a spinster. When the eldest—and most cherished—of her younger brothers decides to join the war, however, Prudence is determined to keep him safe. So she strikes a bargain with an old acquaintance: her body in exchange for her brother's safety.

In the dead of night, she slips into the bed of a man whose touch is both fierce and passionate... little knowing she's just seduced the wrong man.

Harrison Carlisle, the Duke of Sutcliffe, never imagined that that lovely Prudence would honour his bed, or just how bewitching those lush curves could be. Yet he keeps a gentleman's silence. After all, a spy for the Crown can ill afford to marry. But when Prudence's brother is killed, they find themselves uniting to track down the traitorous murderer. And while death lurks within the shadowy world of espionage, there is also passion... and the unbidden thrill of seduction!

105 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 8, 2014

15 people are currently reading
196 people want to read

About the author

Robyn DeHart

34 books527 followers
National Bestselling author, Robyn DeHart’s novels have appeared in the top bestselling romance and historical romance lists. Her books have been translated into nearly a dozen languages. Her historical romantic adventure series, The Legend Hunters, were not only bestsellers, but also award-winners, snagging a Reader’s Crown and a Reviewer’s Choice award. She had three releases in 2013 and 2014 will see four more, all set in the popular historical romance Regency and Victorian eras.

Known for her “strong dialogue and characters that leap off the page” (RT Bookclub) and her “sizzling romance” (Publishers Weekly), her books have been featured in USA Today and the Chicago Tribune. A popular writing instructor, she has given speeches at writing conferences in Los Angeles, DC, New York, Dallas, Nashville and Toronto, among many others.

When not writing, you can find Robyn hanging out with her family, husband (The Professor) a university professor of Political Science and their two ridiculously beautiful and smart daughters, Busybee and Babybee as well as two spoiled-rotten cats. They live in the hill country of Texas where it’s hot eight months of the year, but those big blue skies make it worth it.

You can find Robyn online in a variety of places.
Sign up for Robyn’s newsletter www.robyndehart.com/newsletter/
Robyn’s website www.robyndehart.com
Robyn on Twitter twitter.com/RobynDeHart
Robyn on Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/Robyn-DeHart-H...
Robyn on Goodreads www.goodreads.com/author/show/288853....

What others say about Robyn’s books.
“Robyn DeHart’s vibrant characters sweep the reader into a clever and sensual romp that is not to be missed.” – Julia London, NYT Bestselling Author
“Robyn DeHart proves that falling in love is the greatest adventure of all.” – Teresa Medeiros, NYT Bestselling Author
“Sizzling romance…DeHart makes the romance believable and enticing.” - Publishers Weekly
“DeHart is a genuine treasure.” – Booklist
“Robyn DeHart has become one of my favorite authors…where she shines is in creating character…. DeHart’s romances are tender and adventurous, and funny enough you may laugh your nethers off.” – FreshFiction
“One of the best historical romance authors writing today.” - Shana Galen, National Bestselling Author

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Zoe.
766 reviews201 followers
May 29, 2016
The entire series is a consistently 3 star read for me. I enjoyed this final installment as I did the first 2. And I feel the same way about this book as I did the previous 2: for a novella it isn't a bad read. Interesting backstory and good characters. The relationship felt rushed in all cases, but that is to be expected in novellas.

I can't say that I loved Prudence in this book. A mother hen to her siblings and a spinster, self-sacrificing, all pushing my buttons. But the book is too short for me to form a negative opinion of her because readers are spared of many great details of how Prudence would have fussed over her siblings. She spent enough time Witt Harrison to be a woman, not an older sister/mother figure.

I found the male names in this book very confusing. Harrison, Johnson, and something else I cannot remember. All first that could have been last names. What is the purpose of that, to add an extra syllable "son" to the names, I wonder? What's wrong with Harry and John?

I think the best book for me in the series is the second and books 1 and 3 are rather blah. But at least the stories flowed smoothly so I have given them all 3 stars.
Profile Image for Dottie.
307 reviews8 followers
September 26, 2014
An unforgettable historical romance! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:

As the eldest daughter, Prudence Hixsby is caring for her five siblings, but when Johnston, the oldest of her younger brothers, informs her that he is leaving to go to war, she panics. She blames the Duke of Sutcliffe for encouraging her brother, and is angry with him, despite her own crush on the man. Trying to keep her brother out of harm’s way, she lets a different aristocratic lord, Sir Fenton, know that she will do anything to keep her brother safe when he offers his aid. When he agrees to help if she will meet him in his bedroom that night, she reluctantly gives in. After sneaking into the man’s bedroom and fulfilling her part of the bargain, Prudence can only feel relieved that the passion-filled night went better than she expected. But later, she is shocked to discover that she entered the wrong bed and not showing up in Sir Fenton’s bed has made their deal null and void. Shocked, she can’t help but wonder about the identity of the man she did seduce.

Harrison Carlisle, the Duke of Sutcliffe, is stunned when the lovely Prudence climbs into his bed. But he gives into the seduction as her curvaceous beauty mesmerizes him. Later, overhearing her conversation with Sir Fenton, Harrison discovers her real reason for the seduction and places her brother under his command. He knows the honorable thing to do would be to offer marriage, but as a spy for the Crown, he cannot marry for risk of putting his bride in harm’s way. So he maintains his silence about that night, even keeping it secret from Prudence. But when Johnston dies, Prudence arrives to demand that Harrison help her find his killer. Unfortunately, he has his own hands full. He is a member of an elite order of spies and someone in that organization is setting him up for treason.

As his enemies invade his home, Harrison and Prudence, with her siblings in tow, escape. Finding shelter and a safe haven for all of them, Harrison sets out to reveal the traitor who killed Prudence’s brother and is now setting him up. As he and Prudence, who refuses to be left behind, investigate, he cannot help remembering her in his bed and longs to have her there again. But how will she react when she discovers that he was the man she seduced that night? Will they find the traitor before they become the next victims?

The third novella in author Robyn DeHart’s MASQUERADING MISTRESSES, MISADVENTURES IN SEDUCTION is an exciting, sexy historical romance and one that readers are sure to enjoy. The chemistry between Harrison and Prudence is undeniable and even as they are in the midst of an investigation, a few stolen moments keep the romance alive. Within this novella, Ms. DeHart packs a whole lot of story. The characters are well developed, the action is fast-paced and the plot will keep you glued to the pages.

Sexual tension, heartfelt emotion, colorful characters, intrigue, betrayal, romance and true love are all packed into this beautifully written, quick read, providing readers with an unforgettable story. Those who enjoy this novella should also check out the first two stories in this series, NO ORDINARY MISTRESS and FOR HER SPY ONLY. I recommend this story to everyone who loves a captivating historical romance.

Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
2,382 reviews20 followers
September 10, 2014
This is the conclusion of the Masquerading Mistresses series and my favorite. Robyn DeHart draws you into her stories from the beginning and her books are hard to put down. She has a way of writing characters and dialog that flow smoothly. I loved both Prudence and Harrison. Prudence is strong, not a shrinking violet, has to grow up fast, and knows what she needs to do and takes charge. Harrison is not an "in your face" rake but rather he is mysterious and a protector which makes him very attractive to Prudence (and me!). He is what I would call a man's man without being boorish. Their working together (reluctantly on his part) on solving his treason accusation and her brother's death draws them to each other in such a way that the story just flows along with their budding romance. The only downside to the story is that it was too short. I wanted to keep reading about Prudence and Harrison.
Profile Image for Pamela.
363 reviews33 followers
August 24, 2018
This was such a good series, I'm sad to see it go :(

The couple in this story was just as endearing as the couples before this novel, if not more. Prudence was like the in-between of Emma and Winifred. She was adventurous but also quite clueless. The mix gave her a refreshing personality that greatly supported Harrison's cold exterior.

However, due again to the shortness of the story, I was not able to fully enjoy the characters' story. The series serves more as an inspiration for daydreams, dreams, or future novels. There was an attempt to make the overarching plot satisfying, but it fell short at various parts of the story.

Problematic dialogue found in the story (though it does not affect my rating):
Profile Image for Karen Darling.
3,309 reviews23 followers
May 2, 2025
Too much cloak and dagger and the stupid heroine whored herself out and had sex with the wrong man.
Profile Image for Patty McKenna Van Hulle.
778 reviews8 followers
September 8, 2014
Harrison (love this different name) Carlisle, the Duke of Sutcliffe, is all about King & Country, so he started a spy group nicknamed, Seven. Prudence Hixsby is all about her 5 younger siblings & always been there for them no matter what. So when her brother, Johnson, wants to join in the fight against France, she bargains her virtue to keep him safe. One small problem with that plan, she seduced the wrong man, but enjoyed every touch, kiss, caress & don't get her started on the orgasms. Harrison was also changed by Prudence's seduction & keeps Prudence at a distance as he always has, because she is what he WANTS, but CAN'T have due to his spy work.

Now 4 years later, Prudence & Harrison world's collide, as she DEMANDS the murderer of her brother be brought to justice. Intrigue, 4 siblings underfoot, murder, hard kisses up against many walls, spy baddies, masquerade ball, damaging lies of espionage, an attempt of Prinny & mysterious happenings bring these 2 together, whether they want it or not. What will happen when she unmask Harrison as the man she seduced? Will Harrison realize he can have Prudence forever? Can her 4 younger siblings kill the romance?

I will be honest & say that I didn't think a romance with 5 siblings around 24/7 would work, but Ms. DeHart didn't need to make it work because the story just flowed! Prudence is a 2014 mom who wants it all, but she didn't really get a choice in it. I think there is a little of Ms. DeHart's inner mama in Prudence & that is why Prudence just danced off my Kindle & into my heart with all my loved Wallflowers! Dukes are 1 of my favorite heros because HELLO their Dukes, but I love a Duke who meets his match & Harrison meet not only Prudence, but her clan in tow! Ms. DeHart didn't let the kids interrupt the R rated moves that Harrison & Prudence shared. She also had a mission for the some of other characters from the Masquerading Mistresses series & I almost fell off my couch when "Mr. Spock" Alistair WANTED to take all 4 of the kids to his castle. Ms. DeHart gets my top score of 5 fingers up & 10 toes for this quickie filled with espionage, spy baddies & a on-the-shelf Prudence seducing her Duke more than once!

NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
1,353 reviews38 followers
September 17, 2014
Prudence Hixsby is resigned to remain a spinster; her parents are dead, and being the eldest girl, she’s the one who sees to her younger brothers and sisters. Her brother Johnston wants to join the military, and she blames the dashing Harrison Carlisle, Duke of Sutcliffe for his influence on her brother. Prudence is in awe of the handsome Duke, who doesn’t seem to think much of her. At a house party, she decides to take matters in her own hands and ask Harrison if he could make Johnston change his mind, but he refuses.

Sir Bailey Fenton has been flirting with Pru for ages and hearing about her plea to the Duke, he proposes an arrangement: if Pru agrees to become his mistress, he will make sure her brother will not be accepted. Prudence has made up her mind to accept Bailey’s proposition and later that evening, she goes to his room in complete darkness and gives himself to him.

Or so she thinks; she soon learns that it wasn’t Bailey she has seduced the wrong man because her brother has enlisted, and Bailey is nasty to her. As no one came forward, she’s certainly not going to ask, so the midnight man remains a mystery.

In 1814, the world crashes around Prudence. Harrison Carlisle works for the Seven, an elite group of spies for the Crown and there is a traitor among them.

Where do I begin? The only fault I can find with Misadventures in Seduction is that it didn’t go on forever! Absolutely wonderful! Fast-paced, magnificently written, compelling, fabulous multi-dimensional, engaging characters; there is nothing wrong! I’m usually not crazy about mistaken identities tropes, but do I ever make an exception in this case: it is the basis for an intelligent and clever story. I loved, loved, loved this book and I’m looking forward to anything by Ms. DeHart! Splendid!

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. And boy was it a gift indeed! Smashing book!And after finishing this book, I bought the other 2 previous ones in the series; not because I needed more background story, but because this one was so good, I wanted all of them!
Profile Image for Mary Gramlich.
514 reviews38 followers
September 8, 2014
Prudence Hixsby had taken control of her family’s life the day her parents died. She has loved, nurtured, and protected each one of her siblings including her brother. Now said brother has decided to grow up too fast and join the military. Prudence is determined to either stop that or control his fate and has found a man to help her. The problem is one wrong turn into another man’s room leaves Prudence compromised and with no one to help keep her brother out of harm’s way.

When the trouble leads to his death Prudence knows who to blame and marches right over to Harrison Carlisle, Duke of Sutcliffe home to lay the guilt on his doorstep. Unfortunately she had to take all of her siblings’ with her right at a time that Harrison was being accused of treason. Harrison has secrets as part of the elite set of spies he set up and belongs to but right now he is trying to stay alive and never expected Prudence to be part of his salvation. Running into the night he seeks shelter and safety for them all and with his friends devises a plan that will throw everyone off their game with Prudence as the ringer.

Yet when Harrison tells Prudence the truth that he was the man she was intimate with will she love or loathe him. Harrison did know what she wanted from him initially and he did try to protect her brother but right now Harrison is doing his level best to keep her away from him because she is too perfect for someone as flawed as he is. He knows he loves her and the desire is mutual but will the flame be doused when his feelings are shared and their relationship goes from professional to personal?

No one writes a better story than Robyn DeHart who has the ability to ramp up the suspense mixed in just right with the romance
Profile Image for Amy Alvis.
2,041 reviews83 followers
September 13, 2014
This is book 3 in the Masquerading Mistresses series.

Willing to do anything to keep her brother from going off to war, Prudence Hixsby makes a deal with Sir Bailey Fenton. One night in his bed in exchange for his help in keeping her brother safe.

Sneaking into a darkened room later that evening, she has a passion filled night. She soon learns that she slept with the wrong man and her brother is off to war.

Harrison Carlisle, the Duke of Sutcliffe, can't believe that Pru has come to his room. He has been attracted to her for sometime, but knows that the only way he can have her is marriage. He is not in a position to take a wife, so he has never pursued her. He soons learns why Pru had come to the room and does everything in his power to keep her brother safe.

Unfortunately, it's not enough. When Pru's brother is killed, Harrison finds himself working alongside Pru to find his murderer. Can he keep his attraction underwraps or will decide to reveal all?

I LOVE Robyn DeHart's novellas. She has a gift of of telling a short story without the reader feeling deprived of part of a story. I've loved the other two stories in this series and DeHart did not disappoint with this one!

I love strong women in a story and Pru was definitely that. She was going to find her brother's killer with or without the help of Harrison. Harrison had just the right personality to match her strong personality without overpowering her.

I can't wait to see what DeHart has up her sleeve next!

Thanks go to Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
Profile Image for Miriam.
737 reviews39 followers
September 29, 2014
Well... Huh. I was torn between laughing and gaping in mortification when Prudence's mistake was revealed. Then I wanted to disregard Harrison altogether for not telling her the truth when he should have. But if that happened, there wouldn't have been much of a story, would there?

Prudence had the difficult task of being both a mom and a sister to her siblings, and bore the weight of knowing they would eventually leave home to venture out into the world. She also knew that leaving could very well place them in danger. It was that knowledge and the desire to protect them that she made a deal in hopes of keeping her brother safe. Oh, I understood her decision to bed Sir Fenton, but understanding didn't keep me from hoping that another solution would present itself.

At the beginning, I didn't care for Harrison too much for obvious reasons. But as the story went along, as I saw what he did behind the scenes for Prudence, my dislike turned into like. That he would do so much for her--taking her brother under his wing and then helping her (albeit reluctantly) find her brother's killer--showed how much he really cared about her.

This story had a little bit of everything: mystery, suspense, danger, sex, and romance. You'd think it'd be hard to pack all of that into about a hundred pages, but Ms. DeHart does it effortlessly. She knows how to pull me into her stories and keep me there with her incredible attention to detail and effortless storytelling abilities. This is definitely one short story I'll be reading again.

***Received from Entangled Publishing for an honest review***
Profile Image for WTF Are You Reading?.
1,309 reviews93 followers
September 10, 2014

Prudence Hixby has accepted spinsterhood as a foregone conclusion.
With her brother, Johnston determined to risk life and limb for Crown and country, and a veritable brood of younger siblings in her charge; chances of finding love seem considerably less than stellar.

But how quickly things change...

When the opportunity to save her brother from the ravages of war in exchange for a tryst with the well connected Sir Bailey Fenton, is put before her; Prudence deems the sacrifice of her virtue, a small price to pay to ensure the safety of her brother.
Little does she know that her late night wanderings lead her into the arms and heart of a temptation far greater than the one she planned.

As fate would have it Johnston, while kept out of the line of fire, dies during service of a stealthier sort.
Incensed and fueled by her need for answers about her brother's death; Prudence finds herself on the doorstep of on Harrison Carlisle, Duke of Sutcliffe, known associate of the late Johnston...and her secret crush.

Authoress Robyn DeHart presents readers with a delectable feast of colorful characters, complex plot twists, and whodunnit variety intrigue. This story is a step away from DeHart's more societal based romantic plots. With a story that reads more like a Regency-styled "Mr. And Mrs. Smith", the action and espionage alone are enough to keep hearts racing and pages turning.
Add in the slow burn of well timed passions and the surprise "happily ever after" at story's end, and
Misadventures In Seduction becomes "must-read romance".
Profile Image for Stacy Reid.
Author 85 books3,409 followers
September 4, 2014
Sweet and lovely read. I quiet enjoyed it. Wrong bed is another favorite trope of mine! My fancy is always tickled when I imagine the various ways a hero or heroine can actually slip into the wrong bed! In the third installment of her Masquerading Mistress series, Dehart pens a lovely tale of romance, suspense, a dashing duke and an intrepid miss who snuck into the wrong bed and had a most torrid and delightful night of passion she has been unable to forget. When tragedy once again throws her into the path of our hero, Harrison. Attraction resurfaces, and in the midst of intrigue sensual sparks fly.

Though a short book the characters journey to falling in love was believable. I read the first two in the series which were rather enjoyable and this book was no different. It was fast paced, yet thorough and I liked that. I would recommend to historical romance lovers and I give this book 4 beautiful toasts.
Profile Image for Jessica Alcazar.
4,378 reviews619 followers
September 9, 2014
*** ARC provided via NetGalley by Entangled Publishing, LLC in exchange for an honest review***

I must say, I was quite pleased with this novella. Even tho it was short, it was missing nothing. OK, so you know the plot of this story from the blurb, so I dont have to tell you any of that. What you don't know is what an awesome job Robyn DeHart did developing her characters. Prudence (is that not an awesome name for a spinster? genius! lol) and Harrison had a little over 100 pages to solve a mystery, fall in love and have a HEA. AND THEY DID lol. I am amazed at how this story read as if you were reading a full length novel. Nothing was not done or said or left up in the air for the reader to just guess at. It even has an Epilogue! I really enjoyed this little life altering adventure Prudence had that led to her HEA. I'm looking forward to backtracking and reading the first two books in this series!
Profile Image for Fizza.
Author 38 books40 followers
September 8, 2014
Even for a novella it has it all, romance, a little mystery, some action and an awesome plot. I didn't even feel like I wasn't reading a novel. It is so well written and character development is just perfect. I liked both Prudence and Harrison. Two people who don't seem to get along but secretly admire each other, faced a challenge together.
The story is fun to read. I generally love historical romance but it is rare for one to be this good. There seem to be no loopholes, no scenes that will leave room for disliking. Once started you will keep reading. That's the kind of book it is. In short I would say it is a must read for all bookworms. So glad I did. ;)
Profile Image for My Book Addiction and More MBA.
1,958 reviews71 followers
September 10, 2014
A fast paced novella, which is well written with an intriguing storyline and well-defined and engaging characters. Part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone easily. Another hit by the amazing storyteller. A perfect Fall read! Filled with danger, romance, and intrigue. And if course the right mixture of intrigue, seduction and romance. I would highly recommend.
* Received for an honest review from the publisher and Net Galley*

Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Hot
Reviewed by: April R, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,118 reviews51 followers
September 10, 2014
A great action packed read. Prudence agrees to give her body to another in exchange for her brother’s safety, however she ends up in the wrong bed. When her brother dies, Prudence knows who is at fault and ends up at the Duke of Sutcliffe’s house. Now these two must work together to find a traitor as their attraction grows. Great ending to a wonderful series. Sweet, sexy and an all-around wonderful read.
Profile Image for Joey Berube.
242 reviews3 followers
September 28, 2014
This book was absolutely fantastic. It's the third book in the series and is pretty much non-stop action and adventure. Plus, the hero and heroine have an extremely unusual, original, and fantastic *first* encounter. I adore, Harrison, the hero of the book. Loved it and definitely recommend the entire series.
Profile Image for Sandra R.
3,313 reviews45 followers
July 7, 2015
3.5 stars. Interesting romance/spy book. Quick read that would have been improved with length
Profile Image for ☽ Rhiannon ✭ Mistwalker ☾.
1,092 reviews44 followers
May 13, 2018
Rounded up to three starts because it is my own fault for not having read the first two - the backstory is filled in a little but I think I would have preferred to have read them even though they don't have my favorite themes. This one technically has a spinster, but only because she has opted to become one so she can take care of her siblings; not much angst there. But, I enjoyed the premise. It wrapped up rather abruptly but that comes with being such a short story.
Profile Image for Kiltsandswords.
229 reviews31 followers
September 8, 2014
When I think of reading a novella, it reminds me of watching a half hour tv show. It’s a quick story, some plot development and then a fast finale. A full length novel is more like a tv series or movie. There is more time to develop characters, setting and an intricate plot.
Reading Misadventures in Seduction should have been like a half hour tv show, however for a novella I was more than pleasantly surprised. The author develops the characters, a mysterious plot and lots of action for a short book.
Prudence Hixsby is a top shelf spinster, who cares for her five younger siblings. The story opens with her desperately trying to stop her younger brother from joining the war against Napoleon. She attends a gathering with wealthy and powerful men and decides to beg for help. One gentleman (a term I use loosely), suggests that he will watch out for her brother if she spends the night in his bed. She is horrified at the thought, but after being rebuffed by the Harrison, Duke of Sutcliffe, she feels there is no other alternative.
So off she creeps at night into Fenton’s bed, but makes a slight error and ends up in Harrison’s room. Harrison is the man she wishes she was visiting, as he is the stuff of heady dreams. She consummates a passionate evening never knowing that it was not Fenton’s attentiveness that brought her pleasure. However Harrison does know who he is bedding. When he overhears Fenton’s brush off to Prudence because the bargain was not met, he steps in to help Prudence’s brother secure a post that will allow him to keep his eye on him. This may have been caused by feelings of guilt or of affection since he truly enjoyed his one night with Prudence.
I think it’s four years later and Prudence’s brother has been murdered. She drags the whole family to London to search for the truth behind his death. This is where the plot really gets going. Immediately upon encountering Harrison, their lives are in jeopardy. This is where a novella can be really great. With all due haste, the children are shipped off to a friend’s estate and Prudence and Harrison are at liberty to investigate who killed Johnston, Prudence’s brother and is framing Harrison for treason.
There is some interaction with other characters from previous novels and reference to how they came to be established in their current roles and relationships. It was intriguing background information, but not enough that it detracted from this fast moving story.
While hunting down leads and investigating tips, the two establish an easy working relationship. However Harrison can’t forget what it was like to have sex with Prudence. He longs for her again. He desperately wishes he could tell her who she actually slept with. Prudence has the hots for Harrison. She also wishes that he had been the stranger she had seduced as she finds him irresistible. A few stolen moments here and there keep this romance going in the right direction.
Prudence proves to be a worthy sidekick to Harrison as they navigate the investigation and she tempts him like no other. The author makes the point repeatedly that she is so far on the shelf one must get a step ladder to access her. Therefore you feel a sense of doom about this relationship, even though it is a romance novel and a novella at that, so you know something will have to change the situation.
Being on the shelf gives Prudence the hutzpah to take matters into her own hands and this time she knows whose bedroom she is going to. They have a passionate night in bed that is well written and vivid. The author is very descriptive without being lurid. Harrison treats Prudence with tender care and he is inflamed by having her once again – and this time she knows who she is with.
The culprit they are chasing eventually comes to them (remember this is a novella and must be wrapped up quickly) and they are able to overcome the villain. The epilogue is exactly what you would expect from a romance novel, but that doesn’t make it any less sweet.
There was enough plot and substantial characters in the story to have written a full length novel. I liked both the main characters and would have liked to spend more time getting to know them and have them tease and flirt more with each other to build up the tension to smoking hot. The only thing that bugged me was the name Prudence Hixsby. It is the perfect spinster name and I felt that it was used as an adjective to lend credence to her position in society. But once you got to know Prudence, the name didn’t seem to fit her as she had spirit and fire.
This book was a good read. Like I said, I wouldn’t have minded if it had been a full length novel because all the necessary pieces were there to make it a great full length book. If you are looking for a quick read, then give this a try.

Reviewed for Kiltsandswords. Read more at: http://kiltsandswords.wordpress.com/a... Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lisa.
520 reviews12 followers
September 7, 2014
Prudence Hixby is competent and now solely responsible for her five siblings and wants what is best for all of them and wants to protect them. That includes keeping her brother from going to war, she needs his help. Prudence has always thought Harrison was interesting but they seem to forever be at odds when they speak.

Harrison Carlisle, The Duke of Sutcliff, is the head and founder of an elite spy group for the crown called the Seven. He has always been an honorable man, a practical man; a man that does not wish to marry for fear his role in the government would put his loved ones in harm’s way. It does not stop him for thinking about the woman he would like to have by his side.

This is the third book in the Masquerading Mistresses series and it picks up right where the last book “For Her Spy Only” left off. The Seven are trying to find a traitor only to find he is one of them- the Seven. Throughout lies, deception, framing, gunshots and abduction Prudence and Harrison held onto their common ground to find her brothers killer, a traitor and their HEA. Even though there are many opportunities for Harrison to explain her error Harrison maintains his gentleman’s silence to protect Prudence. All the while she is becoming more important to him and he is finding it harder to ignore her.

Prudence never crumbles under all the danger they face together. She remains practical and even comes to understand and appreciate why her brother felt the need to serve and join the war effort. After being chased and their close escape she actually giggles and tells him it “was exhilarating.” That was when he realized that she was made of stern stuff. I found the whole scene very charming.

Once again in very little time Ms. DeHart has created deep, rich characters you immediately care for. She draws you into the need to weed out the villain(s) so that you cheer when they are uncovered. Because this was a novella there is not much room for sub-plots or for secondary characters to be introduced or fleshed out, but I did not come away feeling cheated. I enjoy Ms. DeHart’s conversation style and sassiness I would have loved to have this be longer.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Melody  May (What I'm Reading).
1,488 reviews24 followers
September 9, 2014
Posted on What I'm Reading

So we have come to the conclusion of the Masquerading Mistresses series, in Misadventures in Seduction by Robyn DeHart. Now this is probably my favorite out of the three stories, for a couple of reasons: 1) The cover. It's absolutely my favorite. 2) How it all ties with the previous stories together. Normally, I'm like oh man we are at the end. However, this just ended nicely. Granted the story could have been drawn out a little more and could have use a little more explanation to why. Sometimes that's the case for novellas. At the same time, it was perfectly find everything worked out. Honestly, it was still pretty good. That's my only gripe: too short.

Now the things I liked: Who doesn't love story when you have the heroine jumps into bed with the wrong guy? Whoops. I mean that's just asking to be read. Anyway, Prudence was suppose to be in guys bed to save her brother from getting ship off. Instead she winds up in the Duke of Sutcliffe's bed, and she doesn't find out till years later. That's not the point; the point is she comes to London after her brother's death and tries to get answer from His Grace and in turn finds herself going into hiding. All this ties together and I'm going to stop, because it's a novella and it's easy to get carry away.

I liked these two characters, because they are attract to one another. At the same time, Prudence believes Sutcliffe can't stand her. He's a spy and he doesn't want to put her in danger, because he's attracted to her. I like Prudence cause after her parents death she stepped up to the plate and started to take care of her siblings when there was no one else.

Overall, I did like Misadventures in Seduction. I think this is probably my favorite out of the three stories. I think each story had gotten better as everything started come together. Okay, I'm going to strongly suggest reading the previous stories before jumping into this story, because all the pieces do come together.

Copy provided by the publisher

Rating:
4 1/2 Stars
Profile Image for Maria Rose.
2,618 reviews267 followers
April 1, 2015
This charming historical romance is the story of Prudence and Harrison. Acquaintances for several years, they have each harbored an untold attraction towards the other. One night of passion between them is left unresolved as Prudence is unaware that the man she seduced in the dark of night is not who she thought. But Harrison knows, and when the chance to catch a spy brings them together, he can only hope that she might turn to him again, this time with full intent.

I quite enjoyed this action filled romance. I always enjoy espionage tales and when they are combined with accurate history and romance it's an extra treat. Prudence is well characterized as an elder sister, caring for her siblings, responsible and straightforward. She is willing to do whatever it takes to protect her family, including sharing her bed with someone. Harrison is equally engaging as a confident albeit reserved man, responsible as well for his charges, military men seeking to protect the crown. When circumstances bring them together the sparks fly between them. Sexual tension is well developed and the love scenes, both as anonymous partners and later with full intent are emotional and heartfelt. The history and setting were well researched and the plot was fast paced, full of suspense and action. A delightful romantic read! 4 stars.

Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
Profile Image for Babel.
2,329 reviews191 followers
September 7, 2014
Cute and adventurous. I liked it.

Harrison and Prudence are thrown into each other's arms in the most preposterous way. In times of war, families are precariously staying together, so when Johnston wants to join the ranks of soldiers, his sister can only think of the worst. Without him, she will finally face alone the daunting task of taking care of her little siblings. So she's prepared to do anything to keep him safe.

I really liked how these two come together. The ruse is flawless and fun. Hot too. By a shady misunderstanding, Prudence agrees to a night of passion with the man who can save her brother. Unfortunately, she shares her body with the wrong man. Of course, this delicious mistake is the perfect seed for plot twists and steamy moments.

Even though there is drama in the story, it's more of a fact than a real feel. Therefore, this story should be taken as light and well-plotted fun. There is plenty of espionage, secret codes, back-stabbing and mystery. Well, I should say that I did feel some of Prudence's grief over her brother's death when she's perusing his belongings.

Pru is a country woman, strong of spirit. I lied her for her love of freedom when she could taste adventure. The Duke is all about duty, but he can't deny his admiration and passion for clever Pru. They make a good couple. And all the while, this secret between them torns the Duke apart until it explodes.

Highlights: masquerades, bullets and knives, espionage, hot kisses, and hotter things.
Profile Image for Cheryl Sanders.
2,241 reviews31 followers
December 19, 2014
Harrison Carlisle, Duke of Sutcliffe, has always wanted Prudence Hixsby but fought hard not to show it. Being a member of the Seven, an elite group of men and women working for the Crown, often brings danger into his life and he didn't want to expose her to that. Prudence's brother, Johnston, wants to fight in the war and she will do anything to prevent him from coming to harm. Sir Bailey Fenton wants Prudence. He's offered, through his influence, to prevent Johnston from leaving the country to fight. There's only one condition to his proposal. Prudence must have sex with him. What happens when she enters his dark chambers to have sex, follows through, only to find out it wasn't him she was with because she entered the wrong room?

Fantastic story line! This book has it all! Mystery, intrigue, romance, love and betrayal. Robyn DeHart writes a brilliant historical. I love reading historicals with strong female characters, especially in a time that women were thought to be good only for babies and parties. Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read more from this very talented author.

*free copy gifted for honest review
**originally reviewed for welovekink(dot)com
Profile Image for Farrah.
1,248 reviews211 followers
August 30, 2014
A nice, sweet, and quick read, Misadventures in Seduction was a lovely romance novella. It was a light read that I quite enjoyed.

Prudence and Harrison were both great. Prudence was tough, devoted to her family, and definitely strong enough to handle anything. Harrison was sweet, clever, and overall adorable. I liked them both.

The romance was sweet. Prudence and Harrison were infatuated with each other from when they first met. It was just a matter of them admitting and acting on it. And, they definitely had some steaminess going on between them.

The plot moved quickly and I was engaged the entire way through. I really liked the story and the ending was great.

Misadventures in Seduction was a wonderful historical romance novella that I really liked. Romance lovers, if you want a quick, light, and enjoyable read, then this is a book for you.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
180 reviews2 followers
September 11, 2014
Throughout this entire read I could not shake the idea that something was missing. There’s not really anything wrong with the plot, but what I expected would be exciting and suspenseful is just not terribly engaging.

This is a case in which I really feel that the storyline suffered due to the length of the novella. There is not much of a spark or connection between the hero and heroine. And while they do a lot of running around, it strangely feels that much of the action occurs off page. Everything happens so fast that there is little time to build suspense, which creates a scenario where the mystery aspects are more than a bit obvious.

It’s not terrible, and I loved the idea of it, but I’m left feeling as though I’ve been reading the synopsis for an interesting story I’d like to read, rather that the book itself.

2.5 rounded to 3 stars

For the sake of full disclosure it must be stated that I received this book, free of charge, from Entangled.
Profile Image for Lily Maxton.
Author 18 books158 followers
October 8, 2014
I enjoyed this quick novella. The first love scene between the characters (yes, the one where she thinks he's someone else) is really sexy. The chemistry between Harrison (the intimidating duke) and Prudence (the strong-willed spinster) is great throughout. I thought the plot was interesting enough, though not exactly my cup of tea (I'm not a fan of the spy story in historical romance...don't hurt me!). So I might be a little biased, but I could have done with less espionage and more of the sexy chemistry between these two. But definitely a fun read.
118 reviews1 follower
September 27, 2014
Desperate older sister sleeps with the wrong man in an attempt to keep her little brother out trouble when he joins the military to fight Napoleon. This is a cliche plot is given new life in this novella! Prudence is a strong heroine and Harrison a engaging hero. This novella is fast paced and well written.

I was given a free copy of this novella for a honest review.
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