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Sinclair and Raven #3
Touched by Danger
She has vowed to never love again, but destiny cannot be denied.
Healer, Essex Sinclair understands her family’s heightened senses are a result of a long-ago pact between the Sinclairs and the powerful Raven family, but has always struggled to feel worthy of bearing the legendary Sinclair name. Unlucky in love, Essie has resolved to live a quiet, solitary life as a healer and leave passion to the young and foolish. When Max Huntington falls into her herb garden, a bullet hole in his side, her only intention is to heal him quickly and send him on his way. Then she touches him, and from that moment on, fate steps in with dangerous consequences for them both.
Someone wants Max dead. It was only the actions of his beautiful healer, that saved him. Miss Sinclair is sweet, determined and makes him yearn for things he’d long left in the past. His deliberate fabrication has her believing him a penniless nobody, his caress has her yielding, but Max must lie, and leave, for Essie's own good. When broken-hearted Essie returns to London, she once again encounters Max, and discovers his true identity. Horrified and angry that yet another man has played her for a fool, she vows to have nothing more to do with him, but destiny won’t be denied and soon they are embroiled in a desperate chase to find his would-be killer before he finds them first.
From USA Today Bestseller Wendy Vella comes an exciting Regency series about legend, love and destiny, with a hint of magic.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2017
1405 people are currently reading
525 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Vella
91 books820 followersWendy Vella is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of historical romances filled with mystery, intrigue, unconventional heroines, and dashing heroes.
Connect with Wendy in her Facebook reader group facebook.com/groups/wendyvellareaders or sign up for her reader newsletter at WendyVella.com to get goodies, exclusive excerpts and behind-the-scenes peeks.
Wendy also writes small town contemporary romances under the name Lani Blake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
March 2, 2023
Will Essex find true love. Will lonely Max find a family. Another nice read about the eccentric Sinclair family.
May 30, 2017
2.5 stars
Surprisingly I didn't love "Touched By Danger" as much as the two previous books in the series. Something was missing to make this novel a "good historical". The story wasn't bad, but not special or exceptional in any way. One of the main reasons were the two protagonists, they didn't have much depth or showed a lot of character development. Although I have to admit that the plot felt lacking as well.
Max, our hero, could've been a nice and likable hero. But as it is he wasn't. He simply was there. I had no real feelings towards him, bad or good. I disliked his habit to ignore Essie wishes. He kissed her, when she told him "No", when he was a mere stranger. He wasn't an asshole, just ignorant and selfish. And I definitely couldn't stand his indecision. He kissed her, then immediately thinks he isn't good enough for her and pushes her away. Man, make up your f*cking mind! He had the potential to be a memorable hero (in a good way) but Wendy Vella shied away from giving his backstory a greater impact on the story. She gave Max a nice background story, but only on a superficial level. It never really mattered, although I expected it to be after the first pages when Essie "discovers his past". His past simply has no real impact on the story (only in the end) and on his character. He could've been so much more, but wasn't. His only development consisted of going from "I'm all alone and happy and I love to love no one" to "I like being loved and want a family of my own". Wow... innovative!
And why does Max never work (like the typical rich hero in contemporary romances)? How did he became rich and successful? It was never really explained. To me it seemed unbelievable and I would've liked to see a hero who really works or it shown to work, so much more realistic!
Essie was more likable but a one-dimensional character as well. Her inferiority complex was never really explained nor made it a real difference to the story or her family. And even her difficulties with dealing with "patient in bad shape" aren't used for a nice character development. Her problems were addressed and that's it. Nothing more. I had no real problem with her, but she wasn't shining either.
The love story was nice, but too hasty in the beginning, I didn't really see their connection or anything. And sadly nothing really happens in the middle of the story, which bored to be honest. And a thing I criticize in lot of historicals with a "crime subplot", why isn't the subplot more important or developed? It was only used for a reason for Essie and Max to meet (he was shoot) and a mediocre ending showdown. Okay, we have ONE scene where the villain tries to harm Max in the middle of the story, which was only one page long and didn't really matter to the story. This could've or SHOULD've been more important to the storyline. Overall I wasn't impressed with the story. But the writing is good and I really like the idea of the series. I really hope Cam and Emily are the next couple, by the way. ;-)
Conclusion:
I had my difficulties with Max and the story itself was without highlights
Surprisingly I didn't love "Touched By Danger" as much as the two previous books in the series. Something was missing to make this novel a "good historical". The story wasn't bad, but not special or exceptional in any way. One of the main reasons were the two protagonists, they didn't have much depth or showed a lot of character development. Although I have to admit that the plot felt lacking as well.
Max, our hero, could've been a nice and likable hero. But as it is he wasn't. He simply was there. I had no real feelings towards him, bad or good. I disliked his habit to ignore Essie wishes. He kissed her, when she told him "No", when he was a mere stranger. He wasn't an asshole, just ignorant and selfish. And I definitely couldn't stand his indecision. He kissed her, then immediately thinks he isn't good enough for her and pushes her away. Man, make up your f*cking mind! He had the potential to be a memorable hero (in a good way) but Wendy Vella shied away from giving his backstory a greater impact on the story. She gave Max a nice background story, but only on a superficial level. It never really mattered, although I expected it to be after the first pages when Essie "discovers his past". His past simply has no real impact on the story (only in the end) and on his character. He could've been so much more, but wasn't. His only development consisted of going from "I'm all alone and happy and I love to love no one" to "I like being loved and want a family of my own". Wow... innovative!
And why does Max never work (like the typical rich hero in contemporary romances)? How did he became rich and successful? It was never really explained. To me it seemed unbelievable and I would've liked to see a hero who really works or it shown to work, so much more realistic!
Essie was more likable but a one-dimensional character as well. Her inferiority complex was never really explained nor made it a real difference to the story or her family. And even her difficulties with dealing with "patient in bad shape" aren't used for a nice character development. Her problems were addressed and that's it. Nothing more. I had no real problem with her, but she wasn't shining either.
The love story was nice, but too hasty in the beginning, I didn't really see their connection or anything. And sadly nothing really happens in the middle of the story, which bored to be honest. And a thing I criticize in lot of historicals with a "crime subplot", why isn't the subplot more important or developed? It was only used for a reason for Essie and Max to meet (he was shoot) and a mediocre ending showdown. Okay, we have ONE scene where the villain tries to harm Max in the middle of the story, which was only one page long and didn't really matter to the story. This could've or SHOULD've been more important to the storyline. Overall I wasn't impressed with the story. But the writing is good and I really like the idea of the series. I really hope Cam and Emily are the next couple, by the way. ;-)
Conclusion:
I had my difficulties with Max and the story itself was without highlights
July 7, 2018
(Tropes: Scarred (ish) Hero (gunshot), Mistaken Identity, Wallflower/Spinster, Sickbed Vigilance)
*****
“Forgive the inconvenience, madam, but I am about to die in your garden.”
*****
Quick plot: Essex (Essie) Sinclaire comes from a large family (hello series!) where all the siblings have various heightened senses/supernatural skills. Essex’ skill is healing, which is handy when Max Huntington passes out in her flowerbed from a gunshot wound. Insta lust turns into insta sex, while Max conceals his true identity. Until they meet in London during The Season.
While it started somewhat promising, so many things about this book did not work for me.
1) The siblings’ skills and special senses are repeatedly explained throughout the book.
(Actually it might, I have never looked)
1) Essex repeatedly calls herself the weak Sinclair, despite her healing powers of TOUCH!!!
- She was the weak Sinclair. The one who was just so much less than the others. Looks, personality, and even her heightened sense.
“It’s like I’m the pale version of them,” she whispered.
2) Essex repeatedly mentions how gorgeous her brothers are and how no man can compare.
- He looked like an eligible young gentleman should, and Essie was sure if any unwed young ladies were present they would sigh at the sight he presented.
3) The siblings have a weird way of talking to each other
- “That is the first genuine smile I have had out of you today, sister, and it pleases me to see it.”
“Oh, there is much to plan now before we leave! Excuse me, brother, I have lists to write.”
“Hello, sister,” Eden said without looking up. Of course she had heard Essie approach.
“Hello, sister.”
4) The clichés are quite something.
- “You need to go now, sweet Essex. Leave me before I do what my body is yelling at me to do.”
- “This,” he said, caressing the side of her face, “is perfection. I have travelled thousands of miles and not once have I seen the color of your eyes in another, or the sensual curve of your lips.”
- “I am no good for you, Essex Sinclair. I’m savage, and have a darkness in me that would destroy you.” His words were deep and dredged from deep inside him. “You are right to keep your distance, but God help me, I cannot stay away from you.”
(Acceptable)
*****
1 - 1.5 stars
- “I have to leave here now.”
“Then go, and d-do not toy with me again!” Essie cried, sounding like the heroine in a dreadful novel.
*****
“Forgive the inconvenience, madam, but I am about to die in your garden.”
*****
Quick plot: Essex (Essie) Sinclaire comes from a large family (hello series!) where all the siblings have various heightened senses/supernatural skills. Essex’ skill is healing, which is handy when Max Huntington passes out in her flowerbed from a gunshot wound. Insta lust turns into insta sex, while Max conceals his true identity. Until they meet in London during The Season.
While it started somewhat promising, so many things about this book did not work for me.
1) The siblings’ skills and special senses are repeatedly explained throughout the book.
(Actually it might, I have never looked)
1) Essex repeatedly calls herself the weak Sinclair, despite her healing powers of TOUCH!!!
- She was the weak Sinclair. The one who was just so much less than the others. Looks, personality, and even her heightened sense.
“It’s like I’m the pale version of them,” she whispered.
2) Essex repeatedly mentions how gorgeous her brothers are and how no man can compare.
- He looked like an eligible young gentleman should, and Essie was sure if any unwed young ladies were present they would sigh at the sight he presented.
3) The siblings have a weird way of talking to each other
- “That is the first genuine smile I have had out of you today, sister, and it pleases me to see it.”
“Oh, there is much to plan now before we leave! Excuse me, brother, I have lists to write.”
“Hello, sister,” Eden said without looking up. Of course she had heard Essie approach.
“Hello, sister.”
4) The clichés are quite something.
- “You need to go now, sweet Essex. Leave me before I do what my body is yelling at me to do.”
- “This,” he said, caressing the side of her face, “is perfection. I have travelled thousands of miles and not once have I seen the color of your eyes in another, or the sensual curve of your lips.”
- “I am no good for you, Essex Sinclair. I’m savage, and have a darkness in me that would destroy you.” His words were deep and dredged from deep inside him. “You are right to keep your distance, but God help me, I cannot stay away from you.”
(Acceptable)
*****
1 - 1.5 stars
- “I have to leave here now.”
“Then go, and d-do not toy with me again!” Essie cried, sounding like the heroine in a dreadful novel.
May 28, 2017
'Touched By Danger" by Wendy Vella is book Three in the "A Sinclair & Raven Novel " series. This is the story of Essex Sinclair and Max Huntington. I have not yet read the other books in this series (which I hope to fix shortly) so for me this was a standalone book.
Essex, her brothers and sisters all have a heighten fixture about them...and Essex is taste. But she has always felt the wicker of the family. Although she is them much loved person to come to for healing and comfort she still fills she is the weakest person in her family. While in her garden a man whose name she later finds out is Max, falls in her garden. She and her brother realize he has been shot and she does all she can to save him. When he wakes up and starts to feel better she finds she is attracted to him but she has been hurt before by a handsome face who lied.
Max knows someone is out to kill him just as the bullet in his side shows him. Max is very thankful to Essex and her family. Max finds Essex very beautiful and has a hard time fighting how he is feeling about her. But Max doesn't collect people and he doesn't want emotional ties it seems to anyone.
This book had drawn me in so fast that I couldn't put it down. In addition I loved the story so much I have to find the other books in this series. I so enjoyed the secondary characters too!
Highly recommend this book!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Essex, her brothers and sisters all have a heighten fixture about them...and Essex is taste. But she has always felt the wicker of the family. Although she is them much loved person to come to for healing and comfort she still fills she is the weakest person in her family. While in her garden a man whose name she later finds out is Max, falls in her garden. She and her brother realize he has been shot and she does all she can to save him. When he wakes up and starts to feel better she finds she is attracted to him but she has been hurt before by a handsome face who lied.
Max knows someone is out to kill him just as the bullet in his side shows him. Max is very thankful to Essex and her family. Max finds Essex very beautiful and has a hard time fighting how he is feeling about her. But Max doesn't collect people and he doesn't want emotional ties it seems to anyone.
This book had drawn me in so fast that I couldn't put it down. In addition I loved the story so much I have to find the other books in this series. I so enjoyed the secondary characters too!
Highly recommend this book!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
Want to read
February 4, 2025💝 FREE on Amazon today (4/22/2018)!💝
July 12, 2019
Another great book by Wendy. Loved the story, highly recommend, i am looking forward to reading the next!!!!!
October 14, 2020
Maximum Enjoyment
Love so true, nothing can shake it. Essie and Max are such interesting characters, and the touch of danger heightens the romance. Well done!
Love so true, nothing can shake it. Essie and Max are such interesting characters, and the touch of danger heightens the romance. Well done!
May 1, 2018
To honor and protect the Raven family was the Sinclair family creed.
Hmm... I struggled with the rating on this one. Somewhere between 3.75 and 4 stars.
I really, really enjoyed this novel and premise. The many-membered Sinclair family was long ago given the task/curse/duty to protect and care for the Raven family by King Edward III. Each member was given a heightened sense that ends up being exactly what is needed in order to save a member of the Raven family--who later becomes their beloved.
Essie, one of the middle siblings of the Sinclair family, has the heightened sense of taste and is an excellent healer. And she is just what Max needs in his life as when they first meet, he is badly wounded from a bullet hole and on the run. Max has lived a solitary and horrific life, and Essie proves to be the soothing balm to his troubled soul. I loved their relationship--how Max saw past Essie's walls and attempts at hiding how her healing affecting her, and how Essie was able to show Max compassion and a true family for the first time in his lonely life.
My one complaint is that I wished Essie and Max's reunion had happened sooner! It just felt liked they played chicken with each other and their feelings for WAY TOO LONG, and it just dragged at times. I wanted them to get together sooner and then have to face other conflicts and overcome them together and grow closer because of them, instead of fighting the same thing (their attraction for each other) for nearly the entire novel. Other than that, I loved the story and the mystery and the slight tang of danger. I definitely want to read more of Vella's books.
My Max, as ferocious as a lion on the outside but still worthy of love and devotion..
March 30, 2023
Essex and Max. I enjoyed this story with the following complaints. 1) Essex should have made Max grovel more over his having sex with her and then abandoning her without a word early in the morning. 2) I was not a fan of somebody who has such great family support (siblings) and a heighted gift (healing) having such low self esteem. Also, by now, when reading this series expect a missing Raven and/or Sinclair family member to appear.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2018
I enjoyed the story. I thought it was fun. A little spicy and there is a paranormal element to it, it heightened senses is paranormal. I like that the Sinclair family is drawn to the Raven family even if they don't know that person is in fact a Raven. Ned to get back and read books 1 and 2.
December 3, 2020
** le Swoon **
I have completely fallen for Max! What a man! As much as AI have loved reading the books in this particular series so far, I have to admit that this is on a level with the first (which was my fave).
I only wish the author made her books longer so I could stretch out my time with these swoonsome men.
I have completely fallen for Max! What a man! As much as AI have loved reading the books in this particular series so far, I have to admit that this is on a level with the first (which was my fave).
I only wish the author made her books longer so I could stretch out my time with these swoonsome men.
January 13, 2021
Finally finding Love
Another wonderful book by Wendy Vella. Love the series. Essex had been hurt before and did not trust her instincts. When a man falls from his horse with a bullet in his side in her garden she will do what is necessary to save him. Max wants to know who wants him dead and will do what is needed to recover and leave Essie that has saved his life. But these 2 will realize that their lives are intertwined. Can Essie forgive Max and trust herself and can Max let love into his life. Can’t wait to read more in the series.
Another wonderful book by Wendy Vella. Love the series. Essex had been hurt before and did not trust her instincts. When a man falls from his horse with a bullet in his side in her garden she will do what is necessary to save him. Max wants to know who wants him dead and will do what is needed to recover and leave Essie that has saved his life. But these 2 will realize that their lives are intertwined. Can Essie forgive Max and trust herself and can Max let love into his life. Can’t wait to read more in the series.
September 28, 2020
Wonderful characters
These families are filled with interesting personalities and delightful difference. There is always something happening.It is like going on a journey to read each book.
These families are filled with interesting personalities and delightful difference. There is always something happening.It is like going on a journey to read each book.
January 17, 2021
Buy the whole series. You won't be sorry.
October 6, 2021
Very good!
February 7, 2023
I don't have words to review this. Maybe one day I will, but that day is not today. I love Max so much. I LOVE THE SINCLAIRS AND RAVENS SO MUCH TOO. Rereading the books fills me with so much nostalgia, it's crazy. I just,,,,,love them. I love Essie and Max and Devon and Lily and James and Eden and Cam and Emily and Samantha and Somer and Dorrie and Warwick and whoever else i may have missed. These books are perfection
September 3, 2021
Great, new babies!
This time around Essie finds true love, but not without some pain along the way. Believe it or not, the Duke receives disturbing family news. As usual there is lots of drama, lives endangered, and passion!
This time around Essie finds true love, but not without some pain along the way. Believe it or not, the Duke receives disturbing family news. As usual there is lots of drama, lives endangered, and passion!
June 2, 2017
I'm really loving is author. This is the second book I've read from her and I wish my library carried more of her books. I received this book as an ARC from Hidden Gems and I very willingly reviewed it.
Essex is unusual, but made of steel beneath all her softness. She has vulnerability and a bit of insecurity there, but her quiet strength, resilience, intelligence, and ability to love make her memorable and endearing. I don't mind that she acts childish sometimes towards Max, mostly because she admits it to herself and doesn't just think that she should be able to act however she pleases because she's been hurt. She acknowledges what's going on and yet she doesn't cut off her nose to spite her face, if you will.
Max is confused, vulnerable, and intentionally cut off from anyone and anything that could break down his walls...well, until he finds himself announcing his demise in Essie's garden. He's sweet and completely silent about it. He's an easy man to love though try as he might to deny it. I liked his confusion, mostly because he came by it honestly and didn't act out contrary to it other than justifying his denial and trying to maintain distance. I loved what he became in the end. His heart and the sweetness was allowed out and it made me want to like him even more.
The drama was there but not truly addressed until the end. The focus of the story was on family, breaking down emotional barriers, forging connections, and learning about the MC's. The Sinclair family is awesome. I love their unbridled love, their closeness, their unguarded conversation, and their unfailing loyalty. I wish I could read the first two books in this series so I could learn about them.
I do wish that the mention of Tolly weren't just a mention during confession time. We got to learn about Max but had to have read the other books to find out about Essie's past. This could be a standalone within a series like many of these types of books are, but it leaves confusion and a bit of frustration because we're looking for validation of the reason behind Essex shutting down her desire for love and family of her own because of this man Tolly but never learn the specifics. Quite unsatisfying, that. Aside from that I really loved reading this book. A most enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours.
Essex is unusual, but made of steel beneath all her softness. She has vulnerability and a bit of insecurity there, but her quiet strength, resilience, intelligence, and ability to love make her memorable and endearing. I don't mind that she acts childish sometimes towards Max, mostly because she admits it to herself and doesn't just think that she should be able to act however she pleases because she's been hurt. She acknowledges what's going on and yet she doesn't cut off her nose to spite her face, if you will.
Max is confused, vulnerable, and intentionally cut off from anyone and anything that could break down his walls...well, until he finds himself announcing his demise in Essie's garden. He's sweet and completely silent about it. He's an easy man to love though try as he might to deny it. I liked his confusion, mostly because he came by it honestly and didn't act out contrary to it other than justifying his denial and trying to maintain distance. I loved what he became in the end. His heart and the sweetness was allowed out and it made me want to like him even more.
The drama was there but not truly addressed until the end. The focus of the story was on family, breaking down emotional barriers, forging connections, and learning about the MC's. The Sinclair family is awesome. I love their unbridled love, their closeness, their unguarded conversation, and their unfailing loyalty. I wish I could read the first two books in this series so I could learn about them.
I do wish that the mention of Tolly weren't just a mention during confession time. We got to learn about Max but had to have read the other books to find out about Essie's past. This could be a standalone within a series like many of these types of books are, but it leaves confusion and a bit of frustration because we're looking for validation of the reason behind Essex shutting down her desire for love and family of her own because of this man Tolly but never learn the specifics. Quite unsatisfying, that. Aside from that I really loved reading this book. A most enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours.
August 31, 2019
Interesting take on Regency romance
Rating: R for sex
Sex: 2 scenes detailed
Language: frequent use of the Lord's name in vain
Violence: fist fights, shots fired, aggravated kidnapping, attempted murder, accidental drowning
HEA: yes, but not necessarily standalone
Would I read more of the series: yes
Do I need to read other books first: yes
Max has a history, and we don't learn about it. He's a rescuer of boys that were in his situation, but we don't understand why he turned into that rescuer. Nor do we understand how he came into his wealth. Essex seems to have a fantastic healing ability, which I don't think has anything to do with her Sinclair extra sensory adaptation. And what good is taste anyway? How does that help protect the Raven family? And why does she feel inferior to her brothers and sisters? That wasn't explained, either. This book is part of a series, and it's number 3, yet this isn't understandable.
----SPOILERS----
Max tumbles into Essex's garden, dying from a gunshot wound. She performs surgery to remove the bullet, then she heals him with Cam's help (he touches her as she's healing Max). That night, he has a fever and is so very cold. She lies beside him in only her chemise to warm him, talks to him about her family, that she's not beautiful and she's not as strong as they are, and she falls asleep. He wakes up with an angel in his arms. Max listens to Essie act as a healer for the town for a whole day, and when an irate husband shows up threatening Essie, Max punches him. Max and Essie feel something between them, and they make love. Then Max leaves before she wakes up, and Essie expects to never see him again. She and Cam go to London.
Lilly and Eden are pregnant. Essie can determine the genders just by touching the moms. Two weeks later, she needs to get medical supplies to replenish her offices at home. She and Eden go shopping, get referred to a warehouse for some supplies, and it's Max's warehouse. She helps heal an asthmatic boy, and Max kisses her. She's angry he lied to her. He feels he can't have her because she's nobility.
That night, Max goes to Essie's uncle's ball. He talks steam technology with the men, then dances with Essie. He confesses he can't get her out of his mind. She escapes to a balcony, and he follows, not knowing why. They kiss, he says he is savage and has darkness in him, but he can't stay away. Then he fondles her and races away. She rejoins her family, and they all observe he is a good man and the two of them can't keep their eyes off each other.
Five days later, Essie is with Cam and Dev to see Dev's new ship and then do shopping that they think needs an escort. They see Max about to get into an unfair fight, so they go to assist. He's rescuing a cabin boy. They fight until Essie threatens the captain with a gun. They take the boy back to a house Max has. After tending to his wounds, Essie needs a minute to collect herself. Max is with her. He gets shot at again.
Three weeks later, Max is taking a walk. He meets Dorrie, Somer, Warwick, Samantha, and Emily. As he's going home, he hears a scream. He pulls Samantha, not breathing, out of the stream, and everyone rushes to James's house. Because Lilly is pregnant, she can't heal (wipes her out too much), so Essie takes the lead with the energy and also does a little mouth-to-mouth and CPR. Samantha comes back.
On their way home, Dev, Lilly, Essie, Dorrie, Somer, and Warwick stop at Max's house to retrieve their dog. Max shows Essie the conservatory. Later, Samantha and James come to visit Max, and she invites him to go to the fair with them all, including Toby. The elephant rampages, and Max loses Essie in the crowd. He rescues her, then is crowded out from holding her. He rampages, too, yelling at the siblings for believing her when she said she was OK. That she is afraid when healing. That she feels herself inferior to her siblings. He storms away.
5 days later, Essie is up, and Dev walks with her to counter her feelings. They walk to James's house, where James discovers from Mr Spriggot that Max is a half-brother. Max is a Raven, and Essie saved his life, and they all saved his life at the docks. James and Eden go to Max's house to tell him. He is shocked, and goes for a walk in the park. He bumps into Essie and the young Sinclairs, but he can't stay. Essie goes to his house to collect herbs, because he's gone. He comes home, they make love in the conservatory, tell each other of their love, then Mad tells his history of abuse. He asks her to marry him, she says yes, and he'll come to her brother tomorrow and also learn about their secrets.
The captain who abused Max gets into his house that night, makes him write a note he'll be gone for a while, and kidnaps him. After 2 days, Essie thinks he's abandoned her. Lilly helps her see that it's her own fears that make her think that way. They converge on Max's house, and Edward confirms the captain must have him.
He's been tied under a pier for 2 days; the next high tide will take him. Eden hears him cry for help. James and Dev try to get him out, but he's shackled and they need keys. Essie is a master lock pick. They get him out and hidden just before the captain shows up. Edward, Max's steward, shoots the captain.
They get married. Lilly and Eden have their babies.
The twins are 10, Warwick had grown, Essex is 27
Rating: R for sex
Sex: 2 scenes detailed
Language: frequent use of the Lord's name in vain
Violence: fist fights, shots fired, aggravated kidnapping, attempted murder, accidental drowning
HEA: yes, but not necessarily standalone
Would I read more of the series: yes
Do I need to read other books first: yes
Max has a history, and we don't learn about it. He's a rescuer of boys that were in his situation, but we don't understand why he turned into that rescuer. Nor do we understand how he came into his wealth. Essex seems to have a fantastic healing ability, which I don't think has anything to do with her Sinclair extra sensory adaptation. And what good is taste anyway? How does that help protect the Raven family? And why does she feel inferior to her brothers and sisters? That wasn't explained, either. This book is part of a series, and it's number 3, yet this isn't understandable.
----SPOILERS----
Max tumbles into Essex's garden, dying from a gunshot wound. She performs surgery to remove the bullet, then she heals him with Cam's help (he touches her as she's healing Max). That night, he has a fever and is so very cold. She lies beside him in only her chemise to warm him, talks to him about her family, that she's not beautiful and she's not as strong as they are, and she falls asleep. He wakes up with an angel in his arms. Max listens to Essie act as a healer for the town for a whole day, and when an irate husband shows up threatening Essie, Max punches him. Max and Essie feel something between them, and they make love. Then Max leaves before she wakes up, and Essie expects to never see him again. She and Cam go to London.
Lilly and Eden are pregnant. Essie can determine the genders just by touching the moms. Two weeks later, she needs to get medical supplies to replenish her offices at home. She and Eden go shopping, get referred to a warehouse for some supplies, and it's Max's warehouse. She helps heal an asthmatic boy, and Max kisses her. She's angry he lied to her. He feels he can't have her because she's nobility.
That night, Max goes to Essie's uncle's ball. He talks steam technology with the men, then dances with Essie. He confesses he can't get her out of his mind. She escapes to a balcony, and he follows, not knowing why. They kiss, he says he is savage and has darkness in him, but he can't stay away. Then he fondles her and races away. She rejoins her family, and they all observe he is a good man and the two of them can't keep their eyes off each other.
Five days later, Essie is with Cam and Dev to see Dev's new ship and then do shopping that they think needs an escort. They see Max about to get into an unfair fight, so they go to assist. He's rescuing a cabin boy. They fight until Essie threatens the captain with a gun. They take the boy back to a house Max has. After tending to his wounds, Essie needs a minute to collect herself. Max is with her. He gets shot at again.
Three weeks later, Max is taking a walk. He meets Dorrie, Somer, Warwick, Samantha, and Emily. As he's going home, he hears a scream. He pulls Samantha, not breathing, out of the stream, and everyone rushes to James's house. Because Lilly is pregnant, she can't heal (wipes her out too much), so Essie takes the lead with the energy and also does a little mouth-to-mouth and CPR. Samantha comes back.
On their way home, Dev, Lilly, Essie, Dorrie, Somer, and Warwick stop at Max's house to retrieve their dog. Max shows Essie the conservatory. Later, Samantha and James come to visit Max, and she invites him to go to the fair with them all, including Toby. The elephant rampages, and Max loses Essie in the crowd. He rescues her, then is crowded out from holding her. He rampages, too, yelling at the siblings for believing her when she said she was OK. That she is afraid when healing. That she feels herself inferior to her siblings. He storms away.
5 days later, Essie is up, and Dev walks with her to counter her feelings. They walk to James's house, where James discovers from Mr Spriggot that Max is a half-brother. Max is a Raven, and Essie saved his life, and they all saved his life at the docks. James and Eden go to Max's house to tell him. He is shocked, and goes for a walk in the park. He bumps into Essie and the young Sinclairs, but he can't stay. Essie goes to his house to collect herbs, because he's gone. He comes home, they make love in the conservatory, tell each other of their love, then Mad tells his history of abuse. He asks her to marry him, she says yes, and he'll come to her brother tomorrow and also learn about their secrets.
The captain who abused Max gets into his house that night, makes him write a note he'll be gone for a while, and kidnaps him. After 2 days, Essie thinks he's abandoned her. Lilly helps her see that it's her own fears that make her think that way. They converge on Max's house, and Edward confirms the captain must have him.
He's been tied under a pier for 2 days; the next high tide will take him. Eden hears him cry for help. James and Dev try to get him out, but he's shackled and they need keys. Essie is a master lock pick. They get him out and hidden just before the captain shows up. Edward, Max's steward, shoots the captain.
They get married. Lilly and Eden have their babies.
The twins are 10, Warwick had grown, Essex is 27
February 20, 2021
I quite enjoyed this one. My first time reading this author and def won't be my last.
At first I wasn't sure what to think as I hadn't read the first 2 books and everything just seemed a little simplistic.
But as I read the story grew in layers and the characters were endearing if a bit too sweet.
It's one of those stories where you either have a black hat or a white hat.
But sometimes I like to read something that will just cheer up my day and this was definitely that.
I loved the warm and open camaraderie amongst the Sinclair/Raven families.
There is also an element of psychic powers in this series. It reminded me a bit of my fave series by Hannah Howell, the Wherlockes.
Max finds himself in the tender hands of Essex Sinclair after being shot from an unknown stalker.
He keeps himself secret and disappears only to meet her again in London. Then he will regret that he hadn't been more open when they first met.
She takes awhile to forgive his lies because she's been hurt by lies before.
Max has had a dark childhood and never known love or family and isn't sure what to do with Essex and her large close knit family.
Then there is the lurking danger that seems to follow him everywhere.
The mystery was just filler but the romance was sweet and had me hooked from almost the first.
Safety is fine
At first I wasn't sure what to think as I hadn't read the first 2 books and everything just seemed a little simplistic.
But as I read the story grew in layers and the characters were endearing if a bit too sweet.
It's one of those stories where you either have a black hat or a white hat.
But sometimes I like to read something that will just cheer up my day and this was definitely that.
I loved the warm and open camaraderie amongst the Sinclair/Raven families.
There is also an element of psychic powers in this series. It reminded me a bit of my fave series by Hannah Howell, the Wherlockes.
Max finds himself in the tender hands of Essex Sinclair after being shot from an unknown stalker.
He keeps himself secret and disappears only to meet her again in London. Then he will regret that he hadn't been more open when they first met.
She takes awhile to forgive his lies because she's been hurt by lies before.
Max has had a dark childhood and never known love or family and isn't sure what to do with Essex and her large close knit family.
Then there is the lurking danger that seems to follow him everywhere.
The mystery was just filler but the romance was sweet and had me hooked from almost the first.
Safety is fine
July 13, 2019
Once in a while I'll pick up a romance novel with a happy surprise or two hidden between the pages. 'Touched by Danger' was one of those books.
Before I get to the stuff I enjoyed, I want to say there were a couple of spots the wording seemed odd, like the word choice was possibly right but just sounded off somehow. That was my only problem with this book, though, and could just be a personal preference thing. For those who love a good romance, this shouldn't keep you from reading because I still enjoyed the book.
The banter between the siblings is dynamite! I absolutely love the dialogue between them. The plot underlying the romance is intriguing and kept me wondering what was going to happen and when the villain would show up. I have to say, I did not expect what happened to happen. Well done on that, Wendy Vella!
As for the characters, they were pleasantly varied and well-fleshed-out. Each one could be told from the next. Where the siblings are concerned, it was a little more difficult, but that's to be expected from people who are influencing each other daily. Again...spot on...
For those who are concerned with the graphic nature of a romance novel, there is some in this book but it's far less a percentage than the rest of the living these characters are doing. That makes it a win in my book. I find it more believable when I read a romance novel that's written this way.
If you love romance, adventure, historical romance, and a hint of mystery, you'll probably enjoy this book.
Before I get to the stuff I enjoyed, I want to say there were a couple of spots the wording seemed odd, like the word choice was possibly right but just sounded off somehow. That was my only problem with this book, though, and could just be a personal preference thing. For those who love a good romance, this shouldn't keep you from reading because I still enjoyed the book.
The banter between the siblings is dynamite! I absolutely love the dialogue between them. The plot underlying the romance is intriguing and kept me wondering what was going to happen and when the villain would show up. I have to say, I did not expect what happened to happen. Well done on that, Wendy Vella!
As for the characters, they were pleasantly varied and well-fleshed-out. Each one could be told from the next. Where the siblings are concerned, it was a little more difficult, but that's to be expected from people who are influencing each other daily. Again...spot on...
For those who are concerned with the graphic nature of a romance novel, there is some in this book but it's far less a percentage than the rest of the living these characters are doing. That makes it a win in my book. I find it more believable when I read a romance novel that's written this way.
If you love romance, adventure, historical romance, and a hint of mystery, you'll probably enjoy this book.
April 3, 2018
Be still my heart! I love, love, love Essex and Max! Ms. Vella has offered another tale of two hearts that just fills your own!
Essex is the eldest sister of the Sinclair seven – at times she feels inferior to her other siblings when in fact she is the backbone of the family. Essex believes her heightened sense of taste pales in comparison to the talents of her siblings’ and though she does not use it as often, it comes in handy when she needs it. In fact, it is her ability as a healer that makes her so very special.
It is that very ability that allows her to save Max and start a new chapter in both of their lives. Max is a loner or so he says, but he continues to defy himself with his care and ease with others. A lonely and abusive childhood has left him believing he is undeserving of a different life. But he and Essex prove that together they can heal the scars of each other’s hearts!
Ms. Vella has a wonderful way of weaving mystery, romance, and family together so that when you reach the final sentence you feel as if the characters live on. The only downside is the wait – the wait for the next book!!! She specializes in HEA and writes each book as a standalone; however, I highly recommend you read the books in order so you get to know each character/couple as they find themselves and one another.
This series has become one of my favorites!
Essex is the eldest sister of the Sinclair seven – at times she feels inferior to her other siblings when in fact she is the backbone of the family. Essex believes her heightened sense of taste pales in comparison to the talents of her siblings’ and though she does not use it as often, it comes in handy when she needs it. In fact, it is her ability as a healer that makes her so very special.
It is that very ability that allows her to save Max and start a new chapter in both of their lives. Max is a loner or so he says, but he continues to defy himself with his care and ease with others. A lonely and abusive childhood has left him believing he is undeserving of a different life. But he and Essex prove that together they can heal the scars of each other’s hearts!
Ms. Vella has a wonderful way of weaving mystery, romance, and family together so that when you reach the final sentence you feel as if the characters live on. The only downside is the wait – the wait for the next book!!! She specializes in HEA and writes each book as a standalone; however, I highly recommend you read the books in order so you get to know each character/couple as they find themselves and one another.
This series has become one of my favorites!
March 17, 2020
Again, this is a reread. I also think this might have been the first of the series I read. I remember that I read this series out of order the first time I started it.
This installment of the series was not as good as the first two. There lacked a sense of complexity to it. The book starts with someone trying to kill Max. The odd thing is that as he is treated for a couple of days at the Sinclair family seat, no one seems to be worried that another attempt will be made. While it is mentioned once or twice in the course of the book, it seems mostly ignored until it becomes an issue near the end. On the whole, it makes that entire plot-line fall very flat.
Essex's character makes little sense. At the start of the book she makes it clear that she thinks she is the least of the Sinclair's because she sees no value in her abilities. But no actual foundation for this belief is ever provided. No event in her childhood or any ridicule that would make such a belief make sense. While not being a touch healer, her skill is closely tied to her abilities as a local healer/midwife/herbalist. It is no little thing to be able to figure out the best treatment for people based on the mystical, taste-based knowledge of the plants.
The overall story seems to lack the complexity of the previous two books. If I could give it a 3.5 I would.
This installment of the series was not as good as the first two. There lacked a sense of complexity to it. The book starts with someone trying to kill Max. The odd thing is that as he is treated for a couple of days at the Sinclair family seat, no one seems to be worried that another attempt will be made. While it is mentioned once or twice in the course of the book, it seems mostly ignored until it becomes an issue near the end. On the whole, it makes that entire plot-line fall very flat.
Essex's character makes little sense. At the start of the book she makes it clear that she thinks she is the least of the Sinclair's because she sees no value in her abilities. But no actual foundation for this belief is ever provided. No event in her childhood or any ridicule that would make such a belief make sense. While not being a touch healer, her skill is closely tied to her abilities as a local healer/midwife/herbalist. It is no little thing to be able to figure out the best treatment for people based on the mystical, taste-based knowledge of the plants.
The overall story seems to lack the complexity of the previous two books. If I could give it a 3.5 I would.
May 29, 2017
Wonderful regency romance! Max is a man with a dark past and has a killer on his trail. While out riding one day, a bullet came suddenly out of nowhere. His horse bolted and by the time Max calmed him down, they were at the gardens of Essex Sinclair. He slid from the saddle as darkness overtook him. Essex called for help and they moved his body to a bed. Essex was a healer and went to work removing the bullet and stopping the blood flow. In the days that followed, Essex & Max felt a connection between them. But Max felt unworthy due to his dark past. Essex was also in denial because of the betrayal of an ex boyfriend. This storyline blossoms into curiosity about the Sinclair family and their gifts, the mystery of Max's past and his would be killer and the suspense about the legends of the Sinclair & Ravens. An exciting trip with interesting dialogue among family members and surprising twists and turns. Anyone that loves an excellent romantic mystery with a taste of paranormal powers will certainly enjoy this story. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Five stars.
April 22, 2018
Very entertaining, witty and sometimes hilarious. One thing, though, I sometimes see words like 'necktie' (etymology 1838 American slang and it had nothing to do with gentlemen's fashion except for fashioning a rope for the neck for hanging) used in the present day context; and this is the thing I most definitely abhor for it totally destroys the Timeline. If the Timeline is distorted than History is already changed and would make this book lacking in authenticity. Not only is it a Fake but it also insults the Genre and finally, the Reader. Furthermore, it shows Poor Editing, lack of Research and may even indicate that the author is not really devoted to her Craft.
P. S. ~ I thought Dev can see colors, why did he not use his Sight to look at Max's and Essex's matching colors (since they were all wanting to know what is between them them to begin with)? It would have raised some questions but it would have some interesting answers sooner than later. About the cover, if the man on the cover is supposed to be Max, I thought aside from having lion~like eyes, he also has tawny as a lion hair (as described in Chapter 20)?
P. S. ~ I thought Dev can see colors, why did he not use his Sight to look at Max's and Essex's matching colors (since they were all wanting to know what is between them them to begin with)? It would have raised some questions but it would have some interesting answers sooner than later. About the cover, if the man on the cover is supposed to be Max, I thought aside from having lion~like eyes, he also has tawny as a lion hair (as described in Chapter 20)?
May 14, 2018
Love it! Easy entertaining read! Great characters!
Great read. No whimpering or silly heroines and no one making stupid decisions because they can't see what's right in front of their eyes. Instead we have strong characters who, in spite of troubled pasts realize their reactions to each other are different, more. Although they initially walked away from each other, they soon encounter each other again and things progress from there. There is a small intrigue (someone trying to kill our hero) and a surprising twist towards the end (won't give that away...though I wonder if had i read the first two in the series first would I have suspected). In any case, this book is filled with strong likeable characters. This is number 3 in the Sinclair's and Raven's novels. Each is a stand-alone story about a member of the family. I loved the dynamics between the family members...they are intriguing and entertaining. I will definitely read books one and two and any subsequent books in this series. I like Ms Vella's style of writing. She keeps an even pace, has interesting characters and a good story line!
Great read. No whimpering or silly heroines and no one making stupid decisions because they can't see what's right in front of their eyes. Instead we have strong characters who, in spite of troubled pasts realize their reactions to each other are different, more. Although they initially walked away from each other, they soon encounter each other again and things progress from there. There is a small intrigue (someone trying to kill our hero) and a surprising twist towards the end (won't give that away...though I wonder if had i read the first two in the series first would I have suspected). In any case, this book is filled with strong likeable characters. This is number 3 in the Sinclair's and Raven's novels. Each is a stand-alone story about a member of the family. I loved the dynamics between the family members...they are intriguing and entertaining. I will definitely read books one and two and any subsequent books in this series. I like Ms Vella's style of writing. She keeps an even pace, has interesting characters and a good story line!
August 25, 2018
Well, this series has been such a breath of fresh air - I don't usually read paranormal but the siblings with their sensory "gifts" are so great. Essex Sinclair is a healer & she understands her "gift" because of the pact made many years ago between the Sinclair & the Raven families. Essex has always felt she was not worthy of the Sinclair name nor the "gift" she was given & accepted the quiet, solitary life she will lead as a healer. Max Huntington literally falls into her herb garden with a bullet in his side. Essie plans on healing Max quickly & send him on his way but when she touches him their unknown link from the past takes hold & danger will be evident for both of them. After many dangerous situations, lies from his past, how max must leave to protect her. A broken-hearted Essie travels to London where she discovers the true identity of Max. Angry & hurt that another man has made a fool of her; she vows not to have anything to do with him again. Soon she finds herself with Max in an exciting chase to find who is trying to kill Max. I highly recommend this book & the series to all historical romance readers!
September 7, 2020
I’m not sure exactly what it is about this story, but it just isn’t my favorite in the series. From reading farther alone, I really like Max. In his own book, I thought he was sort of “meh”. I wanted to connect with him and Essie better, yet it felt like they were written at mostly the surface level. There was gold to be mined from Max’s backstory however, at the end of the book, it wasn’t utilized to the fullest. I can sympathize with Essie’s crisis of self-confidence, but it got repetitive. Even the plot of someone trying to kill Max felt surface-level. The ‘big reveal’ is handed to us a fait accompli and we’re never given very many details. I love the melodramatic villain pontificating about the Master Plan, which means I felt very shortchanged here. I still love the series, and I love who Essie and Max grow into later in the series, so I’m going to keep reading.
June 8, 2017
Touched By Danger by Wendy Vella is the third book in this series. I really enjoyed reading more about the Sinclair and the Raven families in this story.
Essex Sinclair has always struggled to find worth in her large, boisterous and talented family. After having her heart broken she was more than happy to live quietly in the family's country home and care for the local people when needed.
Max Huntington doesn't let most people get close to him except for the children he saves from harm, but falling into Essex's herb garden after being wounded changes all of that. He has found something special in her that no person has ever been to him.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Essex Sinclair has always struggled to find worth in her large, boisterous and talented family. After having her heart broken she was more than happy to live quietly in the family's country home and care for the local people when needed.
Max Huntington doesn't let most people get close to him except for the children he saves from harm, but falling into Essex's herb garden after being wounded changes all of that. He has found something special in her that no person has ever been to him.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
April 8, 2018
Max and Essex. This was another lovely book by Ms. Vella. Her Sinclair & Raven series is amazing! Often when I read a series, I get so irritated with the author repeating the common threads in each book. Ms. Vella gives us all the information we need, but it's presented differently in each book. She is also able to write strong women that are not irritating. Being strong doesn't equate with being a shrew. Her heroines and strong, yet vulnerable. I thought the instant lust was out of character for Essex, especially since what she had been through in the past; hence four, rather than five stars. But the Sinclair and the Raven families? I love these families and I want to be adopted by them. The interactions between the siblings is a joy to read.
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