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Enlightenment #3
Enlightened
Listening Length: 6 hours and 24 minutes.
This is a second edition of a book previously published by Samhain Publishing.
David Lauriston has been recuperating at Lord Murdo Balfour’s Laverock estate for the last five months. At Laverock, he has regained his health and confidence and has found—with Murdo—more happiness and contentment than he has never known before.
David is all too aware that some day soon he will have to leave Laverock—and Murdo—and return to his legal practice in Edinburgh, just as Murdo will have to return to his life in London. But when David’s mentor, Patrick Chalmers, asks David to return to Edinburgh to visit him on his deathbed, it seems that day has come sooner than either David or Murdo would have wished.
Chalmers begs David to undertake one last piece of business for him: to secure the future of Chalmers’s daughter Elizabeth. But to carry out his old mentor’s wishes, David must travel to London, with Murdo.
No sooner have the two men arrived in the capital than they encounter Murdo’s ruthlessly manipulative father, who reveals a shocking secret that rocks David to his foundations. What’s more, when David discovers Elizabeth is facing far greater danger than even her father feared, he is determined to help her, no matter the cost to his own safety.
As the stakes rise, it is Murdo who must choose what he is prepared to sacrifice to keep David at his side, and ask whether there is any possibility of lasting happiness for men like them.
This is a second edition of a book previously published by Samhain Publishing.
David Lauriston has been recuperating at Lord Murdo Balfour’s Laverock estate for the last five months. At Laverock, he has regained his health and confidence and has found—with Murdo—more happiness and contentment than he has never known before.
David is all too aware that some day soon he will have to leave Laverock—and Murdo—and return to his legal practice in Edinburgh, just as Murdo will have to return to his life in London. But when David’s mentor, Patrick Chalmers, asks David to return to Edinburgh to visit him on his deathbed, it seems that day has come sooner than either David or Murdo would have wished.
Chalmers begs David to undertake one last piece of business for him: to secure the future of Chalmers’s daughter Elizabeth. But to carry out his old mentor’s wishes, David must travel to London, with Murdo.
No sooner have the two men arrived in the capital than they encounter Murdo’s ruthlessly manipulative father, who reveals a shocking secret that rocks David to his foundations. What’s more, when David discovers Elizabeth is facing far greater danger than even her father feared, he is determined to help her, no matter the cost to his own safety.
As the stakes rise, it is Murdo who must choose what he is prepared to sacrifice to keep David at his side, and ask whether there is any possibility of lasting happiness for men like them.
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published May 6, 2014
96 people are currently reading
1199 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Chambers
50 books1,230 followersJoanna Chambers' muse likes red wine, coffee and won't let Joanna clean the house or watch television.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 568 reviews
June 5, 2017
I am enlightened.
There are some books that stay with you, and this book is going to stay with me for a very long time.
The Enlightenment series is one that you shouldn't begin unless you are prepared to dig into all three books. In truth, they are all like one very large book that has been split up into three pieces. You really need to read all of them to get the full story and appreciate the full breadth of the romance.
Joanna Chambers did an excellent job plotting this series because each book grows and builds on one another until the pieces slot together and make perfect sense at the end.
This is a series for readers who want an epic romance. Enlightened is a story of a hard-fought happily ever after, a story of overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles and emerging victorious. It is a story that restores hope in love conquers all and makes you want to grab the ones you care about and never let them go. It is just a really special story, one that you have to experience for yourself.
The story isn't mushy or sappy or overly affectionate or extremely sexual. It is everything in balance. It is smart writing, smart characters, and an ending that will make you clutch your chest with a prickle in your eye.
Enlightened, and the entire series, is historical romance done right. And it won't let you down.
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
There are some books that stay with you, and this book is going to stay with me for a very long time.
The Enlightenment series is one that you shouldn't begin unless you are prepared to dig into all three books. In truth, they are all like one very large book that has been split up into three pieces. You really need to read all of them to get the full story and appreciate the full breadth of the romance.
Joanna Chambers did an excellent job plotting this series because each book grows and builds on one another until the pieces slot together and make perfect sense at the end.
This is a series for readers who want an epic romance. Enlightened is a story of a hard-fought happily ever after, a story of overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles and emerging victorious. It is a story that restores hope in love conquers all and makes you want to grab the ones you care about and never let them go. It is just a really special story, one that you have to experience for yourself.
The story isn't mushy or sappy or overly affectionate or extremely sexual. It is everything in balance. It is smart writing, smart characters, and an ending that will make you clutch your chest with a prickle in your eye.
Enlightened, and the entire series, is historical romance done right. And it won't let you down.
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
October 7, 2023
“I didn’t know I wasn’t happy before,” he murmured.
“Before what?”
Murdo gave a lopsided smile. “Before you. Not that I was actively unhappy. I had plans. Objectives. Things to acquire or achieve. But—” He paused, then said simply, “You make me happy, David.”
David stared at him, his throat clogged with emotion. “The feeling’s mutual,” he managed at last, his voice little more than a whisper. Then he pulled Murdo down, pressing their lips together in a fierce kiss.
angry/shouting love confessions never fail to own my heart. <3
this entire series was so bingeable to me and i will probably revisit it sometime because for a historical romance, this delivered. gosh did it deliver. and i’m saying that after not having read many HRs because i’m not into that genre generally. but david and murdo were something else and are so special to my heart rn, i love them 🥹💌💘💝💖💗💓💞💕 the development they went through, both individually and together as a couple was chefs kiss and i loved it. end of.
“Before what?”
Murdo gave a lopsided smile. “Before you. Not that I was actively unhappy. I had plans. Objectives. Things to acquire or achieve. But—” He paused, then said simply, “You make me happy, David.”
David stared at him, his throat clogged with emotion. “The feeling’s mutual,” he managed at last, his voice little more than a whisper. Then he pulled Murdo down, pressing their lips together in a fierce kiss.
angry/shouting love confessions never fail to own my heart. <3
this entire series was so bingeable to me and i will probably revisit it sometime because for a historical romance, this delivered. gosh did it deliver. and i’m saying that after not having read many HRs because i’m not into that genre generally. but david and murdo were something else and are so special to my heart rn, i love them 🥹💌💘💝💖💗💓💞💕 the development they went through, both individually and together as a couple was chefs kiss and i loved it. end of.
July 28, 2018
PERFECTION
I've been fully immersed in David and Murdo's story this week and my only regret is that I didn't finish this series sooner.
Trust me,if you're a fan of MM romance and Historical romance this series is a MUST read.
I'm very late to the party here,there are so many great reviews about so I'll just say....MURDO....I honestly couldn't love a character more...
I feel as though I should be quoting Shakespeare...something profound to explain how much I adored this character but I'll just show how much I was into him,
Highly Recommended!!
“It’s just, I’ve loved you for so long, David. I really didn’t think you felt the same way.”
I've been fully immersed in David and Murdo's story this week and my only regret is that I didn't finish this series sooner.
Trust me,if you're a fan of MM romance and Historical romance this series is a MUST read.
I'm very late to the party here,there are so many great reviews about so I'll just say....MURDO....I honestly couldn't love a character more...
I feel as though I should be quoting Shakespeare...something profound to explain how much I adored this character but I'll just show how much I was into him,
Highly Recommended!!
December 30, 2017
All the stars for the whole damn series
This book! This series!
The writing just flows, it was like i was transported to another amazing universe.
The Sex! The Sex!
Murdo! Murdo!
“It’s just, I’ve loved you for so long, David.
assdjjjldklkdjldldnlddjfgjsisspsshjnjjgfiufddbbfgnnbvvfgfdfhjjkjyfdhgrruhgfdssfhjkkjfffddhjkjklknjfdsdsfhjjdkkddkld!!!!!
Murdo! Murdo! Murdo!
Murdo and David! Murdo and David!
Just.. just...
I am just going to leave this here:
He grinned at that, his black eyes gleaming with humour, and David was swamped, quite suddenly, by a wave of helpless love and affection. Love for this complex, sometimes difficult man who was, nevertheless, capable of great kindness.
This man who’d once said to David, “Don’t try to find a virtue in me, Lauriston. You won’t.”
David reached across the white tablecloth and took hold of Murdo’s hand, lifting it up to his mouth to graze a kiss across the knuckles, loving the warmth of the skin his lips brushed, and the strength in the long fingers that curved about his own.
Murdo looked briefly puzzled by David’s affectionate behaviour, but when David went to draw away, he tightened his hold on David’s hand, and they stayed like that for a long while, finishing their ale and watching the fire burn down to nothing but ash.
Ok
This book! This series!
The writing just flows, it was like i was transported to another amazing universe.
The Sex! The Sex!
Murdo! Murdo!
“It’s just, I’ve loved you for so long, David.
assdjjjldklkdjldldnlddjfgjsisspsshjnjjgfiufddbbfgnnbvvfgfdfhjjkjyfdhgrruhgfdssfhjkkjfffddhjkjklknjfdsdsfhjjdkkddkld!!!!!
Murdo! Murdo! Murdo!
Murdo and David! Murdo and David!
Just.. just...
I am just going to leave this here:
He grinned at that, his black eyes gleaming with humour, and David was swamped, quite suddenly, by a wave of helpless love and affection. Love for this complex, sometimes difficult man who was, nevertheless, capable of great kindness.
This man who’d once said to David, “Don’t try to find a virtue in me, Lauriston. You won’t.”
David reached across the white tablecloth and took hold of Murdo’s hand, lifting it up to his mouth to graze a kiss across the knuckles, loving the warmth of the skin his lips brushed, and the strength in the long fingers that curved about his own.
Murdo looked briefly puzzled by David’s affectionate behaviour, but when David went to draw away, he tightened his hold on David’s hand, and they stayed like that for a long while, finishing their ale and watching the fire burn down to nothing but ash.
Ok
May 12, 2014
I adore this series, and this is a brilliant ending. Beautifully written, emotional, moving, but what's really impressive is the way the series as a whole is handled. So that what seems to be a minor subplot in book 1 and then a key plot element extraneous to the main relationship in book 2 becomes the solution to everything in book 3. This is a proper trilogy, with the relationship's progression and the rolling plot elements really well handled, while each book is intensely satisfying individually. You don't have to try many trilogies to see quite how hard that is to pull off.
Not an easy solution, and we see the cost of David and Murdo's HEA, but we have no trouble believing they're both happy to pay it.
I glommed this book in a sitting. I can't recommend this trilogy enough (don't give me 'I don't like historicals', you'll like this) and I am grumpy that it's over.
Not an easy solution, and we see the cost of David and Murdo's HEA, but we have no trouble believing they're both happy to pay it.
I glommed this book in a sitting. I can't recommend this trilogy enough (don't give me 'I don't like historicals', you'll like this) and I am grumpy that it's over.
December 7, 2017
**** 4.5 Stars ****
I have a weird aversion with historical. They are not my cuppa and I don't really know why since the few I remember reading - mostly by Anne Stuart - were really good.
Enlightenment series is another winner to add to my little historical collection. I had a blast with them. Not really a surprise with so many fantastic reviews by my friends. However, I wasn't expecting to read one book after the other with no breaks in between.
This last book was genius! All the pieces falling in the right place, nothing forced or OTT. It was brilliantly done and I loved that.
The story put me to think though. Not only romance wise (love between 2 males) but also what meant to be a woman in those days.
What can I say people? The world came a long way since that times and I am over the fucking moon about that!
I have a weird aversion with historical. They are not my cuppa and I don't really know why since the few I remember reading - mostly by Anne Stuart - were really good.
Enlightenment series is another winner to add to my little historical collection. I had a blast with them. Not really a surprise with so many fantastic reviews by my friends. However, I wasn't expecting to read one book after the other with no breaks in between.
This last book was genius! All the pieces falling in the right place, nothing forced or OTT. It was brilliantly done and I loved that.
The story put me to think though. Not only romance wise (love between 2 males) but also what meant to be a woman in those days.
What can I say people? The world came a long way since that times and I am over the fucking moon about that!
May 23, 2025
Perfect end to the trilogy, absolutely wonderful, 10/10, no notes.
This audiobook made me cry, gasp, shriek and giggle. It took me on a bigger emotional journey than about any other books in recent memory.
David and Murdo are just wonderful and I love them together so much and the role they have in making each other the best versions of themselves is beautiful 😭 and every side character in this is just perfect.
My one largest piece of advice for these books is how essential it is to view this as one story told in three parts and commit to all three books. The growth and journey Murdo and David go through both seperately and together is so wonderful to witness. The final installment in this series will easily find a place on my favourites list and be a reread in the future.
This audiobook made me cry, gasp, shriek and giggle. It took me on a bigger emotional journey than about any other books in recent memory.
David and Murdo are just wonderful and I love them together so much and the role they have in making each other the best versions of themselves is beautiful 😭 and every side character in this is just perfect.
My one largest piece of advice for these books is how essential it is to view this as one story told in three parts and commit to all three books. The growth and journey Murdo and David go through both seperately and together is so wonderful to witness. The final installment in this series will easily find a place on my favourites list and be a reread in the future.
November 10, 2025
Re-read 11/2025
Loved it (again).
I'm glad I got the new audiobook - bundle narrated by Hamish McKinlay, his narration is stellar.
David and Murdo have come a long way. It was beautiful witnessing their character development and relationship development.
Joanna Chambers is one of my favourite hr authors, and this series is for me one of the best in hr I've read.
-----------
Re-read 09/2024
The perfect third book (and hea) for Murdo and David.
And the epilogue.. so lovely.
This series is an all time favourite, the main couple one of my favourite mm couples ever, and the story itself touching and awesome. Most of all I loved the slow way the emotional connection grew between Murdo and David. Stellar writing.
Murdo might be my favourite MC in historical mm romance.
------
Read 04/2024
5 stars. This series is outstanding.
The first three installments read like one long novel, and I loved every part.
After witnessing the slowly growing intimacy and emotional connection between David and Murdo in the second book, in this third book we see David struggling to imagine a future for them, always fearing that soon he would have to live alone and never see Murdo again.
I love both Murdo and David so much, they are complex and vulnerable characters, but so different one from the other.
Joanna Chambers wrote the MCs and the plot in such a compelling way, I was glued to the pages.
This was the perfect conclusion to David and Murdo's story.
I'll continue the series, and I hope to get at least a glimpse of them.
Loved it (again).
I'm glad I got the new audiobook - bundle narrated by Hamish McKinlay, his narration is stellar.
David and Murdo have come a long way. It was beautiful witnessing their character development and relationship development.
Joanna Chambers is one of my favourite hr authors, and this series is for me one of the best in hr I've read.
-----------
Re-read 09/2024
The perfect third book (and hea) for Murdo and David.
And the epilogue.. so lovely.
This series is an all time favourite, the main couple one of my favourite mm couples ever, and the story itself touching and awesome. Most of all I loved the slow way the emotional connection grew between Murdo and David. Stellar writing.
Murdo might be my favourite MC in historical mm romance.
------
Read 04/2024
5 stars. This series is outstanding.
The first three installments read like one long novel, and I loved every part.
After witnessing the slowly growing intimacy and emotional connection between David and Murdo in the second book, in this third book we see David struggling to imagine a future for them, always fearing that soon he would have to live alone and never see Murdo again.
I love both Murdo and David so much, they are complex and vulnerable characters, but so different one from the other.
Joanna Chambers wrote the MCs and the plot in such a compelling way, I was glued to the pages.
This was the perfect conclusion to David and Murdo's story.
I'll continue the series, and I hope to get at least a glimpse of them.
October 29, 2025
This series is absolutely incredible 😭
And this finale felt like the most perfect goodbye to an already phenomenal one-couple-series.
The writing, the atmosphere, the slow, simmering, intense connection, the banter, the ache, the tenderness - and did I mention the WRITING and the sheer depth of EMOTION running through every page?!
David and Murdo’s love is quiet but immense - steady, unwavering, and carved out of struggle, sacrifice, and so much growth. Watching them grow as people and fight for a life together, inch by inch, made their HEA feel so earned and just… happy 😭
And to make something perfect even more so, you have Hamish McKinley narrating the hell out of it. I wish he would have more audiobooks in his repertoire because I CANNOT get enough of him and his Scottish accent 🫠🫠
I genuinely think this might be the best historical romance I’ve ever read (deepest apologies, KJ Charles, but… yeah).
I’m still a bit in awe of everything. So much swooning, laughing, holding my breath, shedding a tear or two, getting goosebumps and sighing with satisfaction by the end of it all. This was everything 🥹
And this finale felt like the most perfect goodbye to an already phenomenal one-couple-series.
The writing, the atmosphere, the slow, simmering, intense connection, the banter, the ache, the tenderness - and did I mention the WRITING and the sheer depth of EMOTION running through every page?!
David and Murdo’s love is quiet but immense - steady, unwavering, and carved out of struggle, sacrifice, and so much growth. Watching them grow as people and fight for a life together, inch by inch, made their HEA feel so earned and just… happy 😭
And to make something perfect even more so, you have Hamish McKinley narrating the hell out of it. I wish he would have more audiobooks in his repertoire because I CANNOT get enough of him and his Scottish accent 🫠🫠
I genuinely think this might be the best historical romance I’ve ever read (deepest apologies, KJ Charles, but… yeah).
I’m still a bit in awe of everything. So much swooning, laughing, holding my breath, shedding a tear or two, getting goosebumps and sighing with satisfaction by the end of it all. This was everything 🥹
June 29, 2020
June 2020: Audiobook = ***4 - 4.5 Stars***
************************
Gahhhhhhh.... this book floored me and I'm officially in book heaven! I don't remember the last time I finished a book with more than 200 pages in one go, but this was one of those rare occasions when I simply forgot everything around me, so completely engrossed in the story and even tempted to neglect my horse. Nah, not really, but I might have hurried up a bit, because I guess the alternative of running through the stable with my eyes glued to my Kindle would have yielded me some funny looks, not least from my horse.
The ending to Murdo and David's story was simply perfect and even one day later I'm sitting here with a dopey grin on my face and my mind still in the Scottish Highlands.
By the way, sorry for swamping you with Murdo visuals, but I just cannot help it. #sonotsorry
Sooo, ... still any doubts how much I loved it? 😊❤
************************
"David," he said, when they broke apart. "David."
He said David's name like it meant something all on its own.
Like a vow.
Like a promise.
Gahhhhhhh.... this book floored me and I'm officially in book heaven! I don't remember the last time I finished a book with more than 200 pages in one go, but this was one of those rare occasions when I simply forgot everything around me, so completely engrossed in the story and even tempted to neglect my horse. Nah, not really, but I might have hurried up a bit, because I guess the alternative of running through the stable with my eyes glued to my Kindle would have yielded me some funny looks, not least from my horse.
The ending to Murdo and David's story was simply perfect and even one day later I'm sitting here with a dopey grin on my face and my mind still in the Scottish Highlands.
By the way, sorry for swamping you with Murdo visuals, but I just cannot help it. #sonotsorry
Sooo, ... still any doubts how much I loved it? 😊❤
November 10, 2025
Ooh, that was supremely satisfying in such a soothing way 🥹
The Enlightenment series is just like Between the Teeth by TF - the individual books are teetering somewhere between four and five stars, but the story as a whole is a full 5-star experience.
David has been recuperating at Murdo’s remote country estate for five months when suddenly, he needs to return to Edinburgh to visit a dying friend. Meanwhile, Murdo needs to go to London to deal with some mysterious errand he’s reluctant to talk about...
Oh but the angst was good, David’s anticipation of the immense hurt his inevitable parting with Murdo would bring was palpable and hanging over them like a heavy cloud. He was grieving something that’s not even gone yet, and it broke my heart (and Murdo’s as well, as we later realise 😭). THEN came the drama that had me gasping and wheezing and clutching my nonexistent pearls and it. Was. So. GOOD! And seeing them communicating and overcoming it all together was incredible, especially when I look back at how they started - the selfish, arrogant little shit Lord Murdo, and bullheaded, black-and-white-and-nothing-inbetween lawyer David. How far they’ve come, how much they saved each other, how deeply they came to love and cherish the other.
Their story truly wrapped up on such a beautiful note - but still, I don’t want to part with them quite yet. Thank god two short stories are still waiting for me (and my dear Pauline, can’t wait to BR these little comfort pieces 💙)!
So - compelling MCs with immense character growth, wonderful side characters, engaging plot with the right amount of drama, and most of all, yearning and pining and tenderness to make you giggle and kick your feet. I’ve already said that historical isn’t my preferred genre (...yet??) but I can tell it will be hard to find a more satisfying series. I can actually see myself going for a reread one day, and that's a big compliment if you know me ❤️
Oh and fyi, Murdo ripping Kinnel a new one was the biggest turn-on I’ve read in a damn while, like MY LORD-! 🥵
The Enlightenment series is just like Between the Teeth by TF - the individual books are teetering somewhere between four and five stars, but the story as a whole is a full 5-star experience.
David has been recuperating at Murdo’s remote country estate for five months when suddenly, he needs to return to Edinburgh to visit a dying friend. Meanwhile, Murdo needs to go to London to deal with some mysterious errand he’s reluctant to talk about...
Oh but the angst was good, David’s anticipation of the immense hurt his inevitable parting with Murdo would bring was palpable and hanging over them like a heavy cloud. He was grieving something that’s not even gone yet, and it broke my heart (and Murdo’s as well, as we later realise 😭). THEN came the drama that had me gasping and wheezing and clutching my nonexistent pearls and it. Was. So. GOOD! And seeing them communicating and overcoming it all together was incredible, especially when I look back at how they started - the selfish, arrogant little shit Lord Murdo, and bullheaded, black-and-white-and-nothing-inbetween lawyer David. How far they’ve come, how much they saved each other, how deeply they came to love and cherish the other.
Their story truly wrapped up on such a beautiful note - but still, I don’t want to part with them quite yet. Thank god two short stories are still waiting for me (and my dear Pauline, can’t wait to BR these little comfort pieces 💙)!
So - compelling MCs with immense character growth, wonderful side characters, engaging plot with the right amount of drama, and most of all, yearning and pining and tenderness to make you giggle and kick your feet. I’ve already said that historical isn’t my preferred genre (...yet??) but I can tell it will be hard to find a more satisfying series. I can actually see myself going for a reread one day, and that's a big compliment if you know me ❤️
Oh and fyi, Murdo ripping Kinnel a new one was the biggest turn-on I’ve read in a damn while, like MY LORD-! 🥵
April 9, 2014
Book 3 in what has become one of my favorite series, Enlightened is…perfect.
It kills me how much I love this book….this story, this couple, this author. The writing is so precise…a story told so perfectly, giving the reader a true essence of the time period, the emotions and the struggles of the characters, the conflicts/turmoil both inside and outward…it’s hard not to be completely lost in this book.
David & Murdo…THEIR LOVE…urghewlekjelkjewe0…just so freaking good! The EMOTION…I’m completely verklempt…I just…can’t…GAH!!!!
The treat of this series is the growth of the characters, the 2 MC’s separately, them together as a couple, and even all the supporting characters…it’s a journey you get to take with them…and it’s so worth it. But really…the true highlight is being witness to the BRAVERY it took for David and Murdo to be together and how much they committed to it, despite fear or doubt. And the glorious ending…THIS IS A TRUE CLASSIC ROMANCE!
I really can’t gush enough about HOW MUCH I love this series. Joanna Chambers writes…deliberately and with purpose…but makes it feel effortless.
This series converted a non-historical-romance reader…and now all I can think about is horse-drawn carriages in Scottish countrysides.
You can also read Sara's review of the book at:
July 2, 2017
Love should not be denied.
I’m not sure how I’ll recover from this series. I’ve read some remarkable historicals but this was exceptional and I fear my book hangover will be epic.
I read these in succession. Honestly, I don’t know how you could read one and not them all. They're like potato chips and I'm infinitely grateful I did not have to wait between... chips. Provoked set the stage and drew me into this world just on the tail end of the Regency period in Scotland. Edinburgh plays as large a role in Enlightenment as any character which is told from David Lauriston’s perspective. We follow him on a journey of self-discovery as he falls in love with Lord Murdo Balfour and finds his truest self.
David is a self-made man. He chose to go to university to study law rather than stay on his family's farm. He’s… difficult, peevish. His views on the world and his place in it are practical and somewhat inflexible. He's got a vision of his life and, though lonely, he's committed to it. His morals don't allow much leeway thus he's decided to never marry and have to live a lie. He’s gay and self-loathing about it because he’s been indoctrinated in the fire and brimstone which makes his future happiness seem an unlikelihood if not an outright impossibility. This time period, as confining and provincial as it most certainly is, makes for a brilliant canvas on which to paint an exquisite romance filled with sexual tension, that lingers in the memory and is what keeps me coming back to this genre again and again.
He’d been convinced that his fascination with the act, his desire for other men, was a sign of a weak and sinful nature. Something to be suppressed at all costs.
I can’t even imagine how difficult it would be to believe oneself anything other than abhorrent when constantly inundated with the sentiment that homosexuality is not only a sin but a crime, a crime with a hefty penalty. Chambers did a tremendous job of making this worldview the cornerstone of David's character. David’s beliefs are based as much on the law as the views regarding homosexuality and his being a lawyer makes them that much more ingrained. Thus he only allows himself the occasional furtive and anonymous tryst then hates himself afterwards and turns to scotch as a panacea.
Murdo is David’s opposite. He’s hedonistic, charismatic, outgoing, witty, wealthy and maybe a little rakish. The Romantic Rascal, as it were. He’s so easy to like. So easy. But I loved them both equally. Murdo's character isn't simplistic but he wears his heart on his sleeve which made him easy for me to read so I didn't mind not having his perspective. I think he fell in love with David during their first meeting that segued into a debauched back alley blow job.
“God, but I want to do everything to you. I want you in my hand. I want you in my mouth. I want to bury my tongue inside you and fuck you forever.”
David is such a challenge for him, though, and I think his pulling away was a way of protecting himself from heartbreak. When I realized that two years had elapsed between Provoked and Beguiled, I think I maybe had a touch of the vapors! But in those two years both evolved. Happenstance throws them together and from their first meeting I was riveted and ultimately dazzled by the second installment. I felt as though my heart were being basted with romance. Two years may have passed but it's clear neither of them forget the other.
The touch of Murdo’s mouth made him feel alive, his neglected body given meaning by the attentive desire of his lover. Each kiss saying, you are here, in this world, with me.
Make no mistake, David and Murdo are the centerpiece of this series, but the inclusion of the cast of characters that make up David's inner circle drives the plot forward. These characters were all well constructed, can just as easily break as warm your heart and how their lives intersect with David’s and Murdo's made for a couple of verklempt moments. I found I rather enjoyed the bird’s eye view over the more commonplace myopic stories that focus entirely on the couple and their coupletry. It enhanced David, and to a lesser extent Murdo’s, characterizations by showing how far they are willing to go in the service of a friend and each other thereby making for a richer story altogether.
One such act of selflessness leads them to Perthshire, Murdo’s newly acquired estate, for a good portion of Enlightened where they’ve lapsed into an easy domesticity filled with fishing and walks in the country and unruffling some neighbors' feathers.
What moved me, and is making this series so difficult to let go of, were the subtle changes both these characters made due to the other’s influence over the course of their story, how they begin to find a way if for no other reason than not to do so would leave them both heartbroken and their futures bleak. I do so love couples who bring out the best in each other and make each other happy. They still disagree and are truly awful at communicating their feelings but when it does finally happen, it’s glorious. And so them.
Somehow, Murdo had become more important to him than anything else. Everything he'd worked for- respectability, a shining career, wealth-all of it would be ashes in his mouth if he lost Murdo.
"To hell with what I deserve," Murdo whispered. "All I want is you."
There is sex and chemistry between them, obviously, and it had its moments, but I think what I liked more than anything was how Murdo cossets David and how comfortable they are with one another. All the small, quiet moments between them-Murdo rubbing David's leg with liniment, pestering him about using the cane, David wearing Murdo's old clothes to go fishing, all the peccadilloes that you know and accept about another person that you live with and the rhythm of their shared life. All those things made it crystal clear how in love they are and how perfectly they fit together, but go unrecognized or are taken for granted until one is faced with the possibility of losing it forever. Their level of comfort truly shone in the epilogue. The epilogue that killed me dead.
The prose is lovely and stays true to the time with Chambers folding in a multitude of historical details that strengthened the narrative. I also really loved all the Scottish details-the streets, the cobblestones, the wet, the tiny pubs, Sir Walter, the kilts, the scotch-all reminded me of a wonderful vacation and how much I loved Edinburgh.
The whole series is magnificent and if you're a historical romance reader Enlightenment is simply a must read.
Review copies were provided.
November 30, 2025
Murdo calling David his beloved 😭❤️
You guys, this series has me in a chokehold! I’m utterly obsessed with it. Sweet, shy David and charming, rakish Murdo, they both came along and grew so much as characters. This is a full review of the series, because for me it was just one long story.
The series starts with David going to witness the execution of two people he defended after being set up by a government agitator and tried for treason. Serendipitously, he meets Murdo at an Inn, both thinking they will not see each other again.
Because of random circumstances, they meet again in Edinburgh, where David lives and works as a lawyer, and Murdo is working on his own motives. They end up working together to solve a mystery, while at the same time both trying and not trying to spend more time together and enjoy a few moments of intimacy.
The first book ends abruptly, and their relationship seems to have ended on a sour note. However, after 2 years, where neither can forget the other one, they meet again in Edinburgh, here is where their relationship progresses, and some feelings start to develop. David once again is trying to investigate/solve a problem and ends up suffering a great setback, and it is with Murdo’s help that he gets through it.
In the final book, after they had been together for months while David recovered, they had to choose between being together/fighting for each other or not. There are some lovely moments, acts of courage and some very romantic declarations. This series has it all: great MCs, amazing side characters, and a Scottish/English setting that is very well done.
These guys really brought the best of each other, and it was amazing being able to see their relationship grow. I can't wait to reread this series, just maybe next time in audio to properly swoon with their accents.
You guys, this series has me in a chokehold! I’m utterly obsessed with it. Sweet, shy David and charming, rakish Murdo, they both came along and grew so much as characters. This is a full review of the series, because for me it was just one long story.
The series starts with David going to witness the execution of two people he defended after being set up by a government agitator and tried for treason. Serendipitously, he meets Murdo at an Inn, both thinking they will not see each other again.
Because of random circumstances, they meet again in Edinburgh, where David lives and works as a lawyer, and Murdo is working on his own motives. They end up working together to solve a mystery, while at the same time both trying and not trying to spend more time together and enjoy a few moments of intimacy.
The first book ends abruptly, and their relationship seems to have ended on a sour note. However, after 2 years, where neither can forget the other one, they meet again in Edinburgh, here is where their relationship progresses, and some feelings start to develop. David once again is trying to investigate/solve a problem and ends up suffering a great setback, and it is with Murdo’s help that he gets through it.
In the final book, after they had been together for months while David recovered, they had to choose between being together/fighting for each other or not. There are some lovely moments, acts of courage and some very romantic declarations. This series has it all: great MCs, amazing side characters, and a Scottish/English setting that is very well done.
These guys really brought the best of each other, and it was amazing being able to see their relationship grow. I can't wait to reread this series, just maybe next time in audio to properly swoon with their accents.
May 10, 2021
This book. These guys. Their love. OMG. I don’t know what to say. ❤️❤️❤️
I adored this last part of David and Murdo’s story. So many feelings throughout this book. The story, and especially the resolution, was crazy and OTT. And I loved everything about it.
David was still holding himself back, at first, and my heart broke for Murdo. Murdo who so obviously adored him. But then I wanted to slap Murdo and my heart broke for David. And then Murdo made me fall in love with him even more with his scandalous solution to the whole situation.
And that HEA? It has me smiling and hugging my kindle and wanting to read the whole book all over again.
I loved the side characters once again. This author wrote a whole society of characters that all feel real and aren’t just conveniently in the background. I was rooting for them too.
Was it perfect? No. The pacing was frustrating, it starts really slow even though we’re essentially in the middle of the story already. I will say again that I would have preferred one book, slightly shorter, like 400 pages, cutting some of the slow chapters, instead of 3.
But my heart loved it. This couple was everything.
“To hell with what I deserve,” Murdo whispered. “All I want is you.”
I adored this last part of David and Murdo’s story. So many feelings throughout this book. The story, and especially the resolution, was crazy and OTT. And I loved everything about it.
David was still holding himself back, at first, and my heart broke for Murdo. Murdo who so obviously adored him. But then I wanted to slap Murdo and my heart broke for David. And then Murdo made me fall in love with him even more with his scandalous solution to the whole situation.
And that HEA? It has me smiling and hugging my kindle and wanting to read the whole book all over again.
I loved the side characters once again. This author wrote a whole society of characters that all feel real and aren’t just conveniently in the background. I was rooting for them too.
Was it perfect? No. The pacing was frustrating, it starts really slow even though we’re essentially in the middle of the story already. I will say again that I would have preferred one book, slightly shorter, like 400 pages, cutting some of the slow chapters, instead of 3.
But my heart loved it. This couple was everything.
“To hell with what I deserve,” Murdo whispered. “All I want is you.”
May 6, 2014
Joanna Chambers "Enlightenment" series have definitely opened my eyes to the wonder of MM historical romance and easily become one of my all time favorites. This story is the PERFECT ending to the whole trilogy.
"Enlightened" continues few months after the ending of Beguiled. David has been living with Murdo while he recuperates and it has been the happiest time of his life. I love the development of David -- he still has an endearing ingenuity flair, but he has definitely grown as well. Oh, David still has sense of justice and do the right thing but he is willing to admit that he wants Murdo for himself as well.
While Murdo ... what can I say, he just wins me over. The moment he says "Nothing about you could ever be ugly to me" (which HELLO, similar words have been said by Jake to Adrien from Adrien English series!), there is no doubt in my mind that Murdo is completely besotted and in love with David. Even when there is the surprising news about him comes to light, I never worry. He will make it right somehow.
Then there's the problem with Elizabeth and Euan, and Elizabeth's husband. Let me just say that the resolution for that is well done. Another thing that makes Murdo a hero in my eyes.
I know my review is shorter compared to the ones I wrote for the previous two but I simply cannot say anything else. Sometimes when the book is that good, you are just rendered speechless. So I will just say that it's a perfect romantic tale and one of the most satisfying MM stories I've read. I have no complaints. It's flawless in every single way. Definitely one of those that deserves my 5-stars.
"Enlightened" continues few months after the ending of Beguiled. David has been living with Murdo while he recuperates and it has been the happiest time of his life. I love the development of David -- he still has an endearing ingenuity flair, but he has definitely grown as well. Oh, David still has sense of justice and do the right thing but he is willing to admit that he wants Murdo for himself as well.
While Murdo ... what can I say, he just wins me over. The moment he says "Nothing about you could ever be ugly to me" (which HELLO, similar words have been said by Jake to Adrien from Adrien English series!), there is no doubt in my mind that Murdo is completely besotted and in love with David. Even when there is the surprising news about him comes to light, I never worry. He will make it right somehow.
Then there's the problem with Elizabeth and Euan, and Elizabeth's husband. Let me just say that the resolution for that is well done. Another thing that makes Murdo a hero in my eyes.
I know my review is shorter compared to the ones I wrote for the previous two but I simply cannot say anything else. Sometimes when the book is that good, you are just rendered speechless. So I will just say that it's a perfect romantic tale and one of the most satisfying MM stories I've read. I have no complaints. It's flawless in every single way. Definitely one of those that deserves my 5-stars.
November 9, 2020
Audio 5 Stars
STORY....4.5 Stars
STORY....4.5 Stars
August 9, 2018
I can honestly say that this is one of the best historical male/male novels that I have read. It's so genuine, so riveting - it's a historical page turner. It was a joy to spend time with Murdo and David. The best part about the book was finally seeing David accepting that he deserves happiness, that it's right here for the taking and finally grabbing it with both hands. And finally seeing Murdo's walls crumble down and his true self shine.
The book starts off some time after the event of the previous one with David still recovering at Murdo's estate. This gives both men a glimpse at the life they could have, at how happy they can be. But real life has a way of spoiling people's dreams and David and Murdo have to go back and face the reality and the fact that they might never see each other again. But I think Fate intervenes this time and keeps them together. Murdo is just a sweetheart under all the layers of aristocratic posturing and ennui. He tries to keep himself in check but we already know what's hidden underneath and it all comes spilling through the cracks in his facade especially when they reach London and all the nasty family intrigue and secrets come to light.
It's hard to see them both struggle but I am glad they decide to fight for who they love - for each other. David is promise bound to help Elizabeth and Euan and Murdo, the honorable man that he is, is always there to be that pillar of support to hold everyone up. He is always there for David. In the end it's his ingenuity and wit that breaks the chains that hold him captive and save David's friends who also become his own.
We finally see how both David and Murdo changed, how much they love each other and how wonderful life can be and they jump off the cliff together. The ending is lovely, sweet and oh so romantic. The picture of domestic bliss made me very lighthearted. Knowing that everybody is happy and content was the best! I loved this series and I highly recommend it! It's good for the soul!
The book starts off some time after the event of the previous one with David still recovering at Murdo's estate. This gives both men a glimpse at the life they could have, at how happy they can be. But real life has a way of spoiling people's dreams and David and Murdo have to go back and face the reality and the fact that they might never see each other again. But I think Fate intervenes this time and keeps them together. Murdo is just a sweetheart under all the layers of aristocratic posturing and ennui. He tries to keep himself in check but we already know what's hidden underneath and it all comes spilling through the cracks in his facade especially when they reach London and all the nasty family intrigue and secrets come to light.
It's hard to see them both struggle but I am glad they decide to fight for who they love - for each other. David is promise bound to help Elizabeth and Euan and Murdo, the honorable man that he is, is always there to be that pillar of support to hold everyone up. He is always there for David. In the end it's his ingenuity and wit that breaks the chains that hold him captive and save David's friends who also become his own.
We finally see how both David and Murdo changed, how much they love each other and how wonderful life can be and they jump off the cliff together. The ending is lovely, sweet and oh so romantic. The picture of domestic bliss made me very lighthearted. Knowing that everybody is happy and content was the best! I loved this series and I highly recommend it! It's good for the soul!
November 19, 2014
Written May 8, 2014
4 1/2 Lovely Stars - A great last part to an wonderful historical gay love-tale in 3 amazing good books
Book #3
I'm in love in these gorgeous men and this Enlightenment series.
The last part Enlightened was no exception.
Another funny, heartbreaking, tender romance story about two male lovebirds - David & Murdo, a love couple I'm not going to forget in a long time. ~ Yummy sweet and so very well told.
Big applause to a great romance tale, Joanna Chambers .
***********************************************************
I'm a big admirer of the two first books;
#1 Provoked (4.5 stars) and #2 Beguiled (5 stars)
and for the first time ever I actually dared to wrote a letter to an author and I asked for the honor to get an ARC copy to read for an honest review. Ms Cambers was very nice and polite, answered and sent me a copy of her new novel.
Thank you, Ms Chambers! I'm so pleased you trusted me with this copy.
...Of course I planned to read this ARC book a bit earlier
...My F.I.R.S.T. review written thousands of meters up in the sky (somewhere over the big Russia...).
***********************************************************
...Perthshire Scotland - Laverock House 1823
This last installment in this Enlightenment series take off half a year after we left these men in book #2. David Lauriston was injured in Edinburgh and his lover Lord Murdo Balfour took him to his country estate, Laverock House to recuperate. David still limp and his hip and knee ashes a bit but he have truly had the best time in his life these months with Murdo.
***********************************************************
I don't want to tell too much about the plot but, as always in these books, it was both tender, steamy and grandly romantic. And as in the previous books added with some exciting "thrilling" moments. We will again meet some of David's dear friends and get to know more about what happened to them all.
# As always is this beautiful David man a bit stubborn, so very careful and almost a bit 'slow' in his hopes for him and Murdo. He don't even dare to think that they maybe could have a chance to a good chared (loving and hopefully HEA..) life together. He is still so afraid and angsty about Murdo's plans of his (theirs) future.
To be fair, David maybe has to be, but sometimes he actually made me a bit sulky when he didn't tell Murdo why he was sad, felt angry or hesitated etc. ~ Why don't men even try to talk to each other? Anyone here who can explain that? ~ ...but of course I loved him this third time as well. David is a truly sweet and very pleasant man.
# Lord Murdo on the other hand is the big, sexy alpha hunk and a very brave Scottish (...'Oh Yeah' a real highlander) hero. He is just amazing ~ everything a smut reader (like me) could whish for.
The lord didn't dissapoint this time either. Murdo was just so awesome cute, tender and in a gentlemanly way took care of a lot of important 'things' and the grand love of his life. ~ A true larger-than-life hero as my nice GR friend SueBee usally call 'them'.
***********************************************************
I sincerely recommend this historical M/M series. The very best in it's kind. This third part Enlightened was a big enjoy to read from the first to the last page. The story just flow over the pages and I just wanted more. ~ I truly belive in these two mens love and future together. I will miss them.
If you want to try a smexy gay romance, set in Scotland two hundreds years ago, don't hesitate; - Go and "grabb" the first book "Provoked". It may be three books , but don't let that scare you, they are not that long and very easy to read.
These novels are all filled with so much joy and fun, witty banters, a lot of dialogue, some suspense, thoughts about important (human rights) issues, huge feelings, believable lovely (and some nasty) characters and of course -as every great 'nowadays' romance - they are also filled with smexy yummy moments.
I've big hopes and am so much looking forward to more enjoying gay romances, set in older days, from this authors talented pen. ~ Cross my fingers then it's somewhat hard to find a lot of really good M/M HR. A genre I love.
I LIKE - enormously - a grand series finale
~~~~~~~~~
ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Woot!! - Joanna told me in a email that she "...may write a short 1.5 story (ie between books 1 and 2) from Murdo's POV this year..." Please, I'm already waiting for it!! I so want to know more about the year Murdo spent in London.
The Enlightenment series:
4 1/2 Lovely Stars - A great last part to an wonderful historical gay love-tale in 3 amazing good books
Book #3
I'm in love in these gorgeous men and this Enlightenment series.
The last part Enlightened was no exception.
Another funny, heartbreaking, tender romance story about two male lovebirds - David & Murdo, a love couple I'm not going to forget in a long time. ~ Yummy sweet and so very well told.
Big applause to a great romance tale, Joanna Chambers .
***********************************************************
I'm a big admirer of the two first books;
#1 Provoked (4.5 stars) and #2 Beguiled (5 stars)
and for the first time ever I actually dared to wrote a letter to an author and I asked for the honor to get an ARC copy to read for an honest review. Ms Cambers was very nice and polite, answered and sent me a copy of her new novel.
Thank you, Ms Chambers! I'm so pleased you trusted me with this copy.
...Of course I planned to read this ARC book a bit earlier
...My F.I.R.S.T. review written thousands of meters up in the sky (somewhere over the big Russia...).
***********************************************************
...Perthshire Scotland - Laverock House 1823
This last installment in this Enlightenment series take off half a year after we left these men in book #2. David Lauriston was injured in Edinburgh and his lover Lord Murdo Balfour took him to his country estate, Laverock House to recuperate. David still limp and his hip and knee ashes a bit but he have truly had the best time in his life these months with Murdo.
‘..., the richest, happiest monhts of all his life, he admitted to himself, in a single trunk.’
***********************************************************
I don't want to tell too much about the plot but, as always in these books, it was both tender, steamy and grandly romantic. And as in the previous books added with some exciting "thrilling" moments. We will again meet some of David's dear friends and get to know more about what happened to them all.
# As always is this beautiful David man a bit stubborn, so very careful and almost a bit 'slow' in his hopes for him and Murdo. He don't even dare to think that they maybe could have a chance to a good chared (loving and hopefully HEA..) life together. He is still so afraid and angsty about Murdo's plans of his (theirs) future.
To be fair, David maybe has to be, but sometimes he actually made me a bit sulky when he didn't tell Murdo why he was sad, felt angry or hesitated etc. ~ Why don't men even try to talk to each other? Anyone here who can explain that? ~ ...but of course I loved him this third time as well. David is a truly sweet and very pleasant man.
# Lord Murdo on the other hand is the big, sexy alpha hunk and a very brave Scottish (...'Oh Yeah' a real highlander) hero. He is just amazing ~ everything a smut reader (like me) could whish for.
The lord didn't dissapoint this time either. Murdo was just so awesome cute, tender and in a gentlemanly way took care of a lot of important 'things' and the grand love of his life. ~ A true larger-than-life hero as my nice GR friend SueBee usally call 'them'.
‘It was just breathing at first; their lips resting together, the air from their mouths mingling. Impossible intimacy. Impossible tenderness.
So unbearably sweet it was a barb in David's heart. He felt it like a physical pain, like physical joy.’
***********************************************************
I sincerely recommend this historical M/M series. The very best in it's kind. This third part Enlightened was a big enjoy to read from the first to the last page. The story just flow over the pages and I just wanted more. ~ I truly belive in these two mens love and future together. I will miss them.
“So you'll come back with me, then?” he whispered. “To Laverock?”
If you want to try a smexy gay romance, set in Scotland two hundreds years ago, don't hesitate; - Go and "grabb" the first book "Provoked". It may be three books , but don't let that scare you, they are not that long and very easy to read.
These novels are all filled with so much joy and fun, witty banters, a lot of dialogue, some suspense, thoughts about important (human rights) issues, huge feelings, believable lovely (and some nasty) characters and of course -as every great 'nowadays' romance - they are also filled with smexy yummy moments.
I've big hopes and am so much looking forward to more enjoying gay romances, set in older days, from this authors talented pen. ~ Cross my fingers then it's somewhat hard to find a lot of really good M/M HR. A genre I love.
I LIKE - enormously - a grand series finale
~~~~~~~~~
ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Woot!! - Joanna told me in a email that she "...may write a short 1.5 story (ie between books 1 and 2) from Murdo's POV this year..." Please, I'm already waiting for it!! I so want to know more about the year Murdo spent in London.
The Enlightenment series:
July 13, 2021
5 'love should not be denied' stars ⭐️ Murdo and David just make me speechless!!! I am enlightened by their love. It hurts how much I wish to see more of them!! The trilogy felt too short! It made me really sad :(
“To hell with what I deserve,” Murdo whispered. “All I want is you.”
I couldn't wish for a more perfect ending than this. They were really great together. The way Murdo and David solved their problems without giving up on each other made me feel the real love does exist. I cannot at least think about starting another book for a while. They made me feel like they were just enough for me to survive for a day without getting into a new story.
Just read this trilogy. You would never regret it. David and Murdo’s story will stay in my heart forever!!!
“To hell with what I deserve,” Murdo whispered. “All I want is you.”
I couldn't wish for a more perfect ending than this. They were really great together. The way Murdo and David solved their problems without giving up on each other made me feel the real love does exist. I cannot at least think about starting another book for a while. They made me feel like they were just enough for me to survive for a day without getting into a new story.
Just read this trilogy. You would never regret it. David and Murdo’s story will stay in my heart forever!!!
September 20, 2021
Murdo and David were a fantastic couple to journey with. What stood out the most for me in this third book was the romance itself. Because of the setting, it could've remained stiff. That wasn't the case. This was a beautiful ending to the series and their story. I am not a big historical romance fan, but I found this series on more than one of my GR friends' "favorites" shelf.
So I decided to try it, and I'm so glad I did. This has definitely risen to the top of my historical m/m favorites. Please read this series. You won't be disappointed.
So I decided to try it, and I'm so glad I did. This has definitely risen to the top of my historical m/m favorites. Please read this series. You won't be disappointed.
May 16, 2017
What did we learn from this experience? We learnt that Renee is always right, and we should never doubt her.
I'm utterly in love with this series. Undoubtedly my favorite historical after A Seditious Affair. The resolution was BRILLIANT. Read it!
I'm utterly in love with this series. Undoubtedly my favorite historical after A Seditious Affair. The resolution was BRILLIANT. Read it!
December 19, 2021
Re-read 12/2021
5 “love should not be denied” stars
What a wonderful series. I will definitely be reading more books by Joanna Chambers. I’ve loved Murdo’s and David’s journey and I won’t forget these two in a hurry, especially Murdo 😍. The only negative is that it’s over 😭. I shall just have to re-read, often!!!
5 “love should not be denied” stars
What a wonderful series. I will definitely be reading more books by Joanna Chambers. I’ve loved Murdo’s and David’s journey and I won’t forget these two in a hurry, especially Murdo 😍. The only negative is that it’s over 😭. I shall just have to re-read, often!!!
”To hell with what I deserve,” Murdo whispered. “All I want is you.”
November 12, 2025
[This review covers Enlightenment books 1-3]
Historical romance is not typically my go-to genre, so it takes a lot of motivation for me to pick up a book, much less a series. Thank goodness for my GR friends filling my feed with love for this series over the last several months. If it weren't for that, I might not have ever picked this up, and what a loss that would've been 😭
I honestly don't even know what to say at this point. I don't think there's a single thing I would've changed. Even the "Murdo is a little shit" to "Murdo is top tier husband material" pipeline was perfect 🤣 I don't wish it had gone differently at all. If you've read this series, you understand. I loved the moment in book two when the switched flipped for me and I became completely enamored with Murdo. My heart went from begrudgingly intrigued to over the moon in love with him in a blink. David was a lovely character as well, but Murdo stole my heart 🥰
The thing that made this series shine for me was the character and relationship development. Everything was perfectly paced with events unfolding realistically, not in the way my greedy self wanted, which was for the best. This series proved I don't know what's good for me 😂 I probably wouldn't have gotten as attached to Murdo if I'd liked him straight away. I needed him to get under my skin first and then flip the script. That man is dangerous in the best of ways.
And David, what a precious little bean ☺️ He really needed things to go slowly so he had time to unwind all of the knots he had himself tied up in. Watching Murdo slowly untie those knots was beautifully done. I know I said I wouldn't change anything about the series, but if I could've had one wish, it would've been that David had been able to tell Chalmers about himself before he passed. My ideal scenario is that Chalmers would have accepted him, told him that love is love, and that it didn't matter that David was gay. It would've made my heart happy to know that David felt that acceptance, and that Chalmers knew David had found the love of his life too. I wanted that peace for the both of them. I don't think that was actually realistic for the story, but if wishes were horses, you know?
Last but not least, kudos to Hamish McKinley for doing an absolutely brilliant job with the audiobooks for the series! I so rarely come across Scottish accents in audiobooks, and his narration was a treat 😌
Historical romance is not typically my go-to genre, so it takes a lot of motivation for me to pick up a book, much less a series. Thank goodness for my GR friends filling my feed with love for this series over the last several months. If it weren't for that, I might not have ever picked this up, and what a loss that would've been 😭
I honestly don't even know what to say at this point. I don't think there's a single thing I would've changed. Even the "Murdo is a little shit" to "Murdo is top tier husband material" pipeline was perfect 🤣 I don't wish it had gone differently at all. If you've read this series, you understand. I loved the moment in book two when the switched flipped for me and I became completely enamored with Murdo. My heart went from begrudgingly intrigued to over the moon in love with him in a blink. David was a lovely character as well, but Murdo stole my heart 🥰
The thing that made this series shine for me was the character and relationship development. Everything was perfectly paced with events unfolding realistically, not in the way my greedy self wanted, which was for the best. This series proved I don't know what's good for me 😂 I probably wouldn't have gotten as attached to Murdo if I'd liked him straight away. I needed him to get under my skin first and then flip the script. That man is dangerous in the best of ways.
And David, what a precious little bean ☺️ He really needed things to go slowly so he had time to unwind all of the knots he had himself tied up in. Watching Murdo slowly untie those knots was beautifully done. I know I said I wouldn't change anything about the series, but if I could've had one wish, it would've been that David had been able to tell Chalmers about himself before he passed. My ideal scenario is that Chalmers would have accepted him, told him that love is love, and that it didn't matter that David was gay. It would've made my heart happy to know that David felt that acceptance, and that Chalmers knew David had found the love of his life too. I wanted that peace for the both of them. I don't think that was actually realistic for the story, but if wishes were horses, you know?
Last but not least, kudos to Hamish McKinley for doing an absolutely brilliant job with the audiobooks for the series! I so rarely come across Scottish accents in audiobooks, and his narration was a treat 😌
May 29, 2017
Último libro de la historia de Murdo y David, aunque hay otro más en la serie con un personaje secundario del segundo libro como protagonista.
Aunque empecé un poco dubitativa porque el comienzo no me resultó muy entretenido, la historia de amor entre Murdo y David va creciendo con ellos a lo largo de la serie, con un buen reflejo de la época y con un tono muy clásico, me ha recordado mucho a esas novelas históricas que leía hace años,lo mejor de ellas. Hay romance, por su puesto, mucho amor, pero también hay aventuras, muy entretenido y con un estilo muy ágil que hace que resulten muy fáciles de leer.
Un primer libro de presentación que está bien, un segundo que creo que es el mejor de todos, y un tercero donde todo se va colocando en su sitio.
Muy recomendable, protagonistas y secundarios maravillosos que prometen hacer pasar al lector un rato muy muy agradable.
Aunque empecé un poco dubitativa porque el comienzo no me resultó muy entretenido, la historia de amor entre Murdo y David va creciendo con ellos a lo largo de la serie, con un buen reflejo de la época y con un tono muy clásico, me ha recordado mucho a esas novelas históricas que leía hace años,lo mejor de ellas. Hay romance, por su puesto, mucho amor, pero también hay aventuras, muy entretenido y con un estilo muy ágil que hace que resulten muy fáciles de leer.
Un primer libro de presentación que está bien, un segundo que creo que es el mejor de todos, y un tercero donde todo se va colocando en su sitio.
Muy recomendable, protagonistas y secundarios maravillosos que prometen hacer pasar al lector un rato muy muy agradable.
February 26, 2026
Book 3 • m/m 1820s 🏴 historical romance
Have I ever swooned this hard? I think not! Murdo, my heart… I’ve collapsed from a severe weakness of the knees…
I LOVED this HARD! This series just got stronger as it went on, honestly, so good!
The character development of our MMCs, amaze 👏👏
David, actively trying to avoid scrutiny, resolute in his belief that this thang between him and Murdo was temporary. And Murdo, with his plans for his future and his social status, seemed to think his reputation would not be compromised.
What I LOVED most (aside from, well, everything) was Murdo and his off-guard moments of tenderness… 🫠
and later…
I laughed, I cried, I gasped, I celebrated, I adored… And as an avid haterrrrr of epilogues… I need more epilogues of David and Murdo!
😭😭😭
The plot was plotting and the romance was romancing. I’m thoroughly satisfied**…
Combo audio/eyeball read - highly recommend the audio 🫠
5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
**Not me running to read Murdo’s POV novella because, satisfied, but not actually satiated 🤭
Have I ever swooned this hard? I think not! Murdo, my heart… I’ve collapsed from a severe weakness of the knees…
I LOVED this HARD! This series just got stronger as it went on, honestly, so good!
The character development of our MMCs, amaze 👏👏
David, actively trying to avoid scrutiny, resolute in his belief that this thang between him and Murdo was temporary. And Murdo, with his plans for his future and his social status, seemed to think his reputation would not be compromised.
She hadn't expected Murdo till the following day, […] and she hadn't realised that Mr. Lauriston would be joining him.
Although that last observation was offered by way of apologetic excuse, David felt an immediate pang of anxiety. Did she think it odd he was here, and unannounced no less?
Murdo, of course, was unconcerned. He brushed the housekeeper's apologies aside with a careless smile
What I LOVED most (aside from, well, everything) was Murdo and his off-guard moments of tenderness… 🫠
"David," he breathed, smiling.
and later…
"You make me happy, David."
I laughed, I cried, I gasped, I celebrated, I adored… And as an avid haterrrrr of epilogues… I need more epilogues of David and Murdo!
"Love should not be denied."
😭😭😭
The plot was plotting and the romance was romancing. I’m thoroughly satisfied**…
Combo audio/eyeball read - highly recommend the audio 🫠
5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
**Not me running to read Murdo’s POV novella because, satisfied, but not actually satiated 🤭
June 16, 2020
**Reread 6/16/20. Still love, love, love!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 What am I going to do with my life now stars?!?
🔥🔥🔥.5/5 Heat
💜💜💜💜💜/5 Swoon Level
“To hell with what I deserve,” Murdo whispered. “All I want is you.”
OMG you guys. This. Series. I'm finding it hard to put into words how much I loved it. I loved it so much I'm almost tempted to start from the beginning again, immediately. I still can't believe I got so into a historical romance! Consider me much more open to trying them now. Oh I don't think it will be all the time. And I think I'll still be wary. But if they are anything like this series, I would definitely be open to trying them. I also want to read more by Joanna Chambers. She has such a lovely writing style.
At the beginning of book three, David and Murdo have already come so far from where they were in book one. And Murdo. Oh my god, Murdo. As his heart eyes for David grew more obvious, my heart eyes for him grew even bigger.
That's the Murdo in my head. I don't even think I have the right time period but I love, "North and South," and adore Richard Armitage so that's who I imagined. I don't care if I'm wrong! That's my Murdo and I'm sticking to it!!
"Enlightened," is a fitting and perfect ending to David and Murdo's story. I kept getting nervous but it really did have a beautiful and satisfying conclusion. What I loved about this one was how much closer the two got. How David was finally ready to admit he was in love.
“He’s not the love of my life, you idiot!” David snapped, incensed by Murdo’s obtuseness. “You are!”
It was clear Murdo had been in love way longer but David admitting it gave him permission to be more free about it. He's basically a secret cinnamon roll.
This trilogy kept me on an emotional roller coaster. So I'll say it again. Even if you don't read historical, give these a chance. The romance is sizzling, the pining is almost painful and the feels will make you melt.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 What am I going to do with my life now stars?!?
🔥🔥🔥.5/5 Heat
💜💜💜💜💜/5 Swoon Level
“To hell with what I deserve,” Murdo whispered. “All I want is you.”
OMG you guys. This. Series. I'm finding it hard to put into words how much I loved it. I loved it so much I'm almost tempted to start from the beginning again, immediately. I still can't believe I got so into a historical romance! Consider me much more open to trying them now. Oh I don't think it will be all the time. And I think I'll still be wary. But if they are anything like this series, I would definitely be open to trying them. I also want to read more by Joanna Chambers. She has such a lovely writing style.
At the beginning of book three, David and Murdo have already come so far from where they were in book one. And Murdo. Oh my god, Murdo. As his heart eyes for David grew more obvious, my heart eyes for him grew even bigger.
That's the Murdo in my head. I don't even think I have the right time period but I love, "North and South," and adore Richard Armitage so that's who I imagined. I don't care if I'm wrong! That's my Murdo and I'm sticking to it!!
"Enlightened," is a fitting and perfect ending to David and Murdo's story. I kept getting nervous but it really did have a beautiful and satisfying conclusion. What I loved about this one was how much closer the two got. How David was finally ready to admit he was in love.
“He’s not the love of my life, you idiot!” David snapped, incensed by Murdo’s obtuseness. “You are!”
It was clear Murdo had been in love way longer but David admitting it gave him permission to be more free about it. He's basically a secret cinnamon roll.
This trilogy kept me on an emotional roller coaster. So I'll say it again. Even if you don't read historical, give these a chance. The romance is sizzling, the pining is almost painful and the feels will make you melt.
April 10, 2021
And so concludes the main trilogy of this series following David and Murdo. I'm quite pleased by their ending, as well as the endings of a few other characters that followed them throughout these three books, and honestly I was the least irked by either of their behaviour in the telling of this particular installment.
That said, while I was very happy, and occasionally moved by the emotional revelations, it was one particular bit of plot featuring a good friend of David's that got me the most emotional. I may have teared up.
While -- for whatever reason -- this series hasn't become a new favourite, it can't be denied that I really got on well with Chambers' writing and really enjoyed the characters. I have two novellas still to read that feature these two leads (so I guess I'm not quite done..) and while I look forward to seeing what else they get upto (though you likely won't see those reviews here, maybe check GR if you're curious), I am keen to see what this author does with a different pair. That said, if you're a fan of KJC or Cat Sebastian and you want another queer historical series to sink your teeth into, and you haven't yet tried these, I would recommend! They aren't too long and they are smartly written. And I still hope to discover a Chambers I'll love in her other series -- or maybe even in the books within this world. Fingers crossed!
3.5 stars
----
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
That said, while I was very happy, and occasionally moved by the emotional revelations, it was one particular bit of plot featuring a good friend of David's that got me the most emotional. I may have teared up.
While -- for whatever reason -- this series hasn't become a new favourite, it can't be denied that I really got on well with Chambers' writing and really enjoyed the characters. I have two novellas still to read that feature these two leads (so I guess I'm not quite done..) and while I look forward to seeing what else they get upto (though you likely won't see those reviews here, maybe check GR if you're curious), I am keen to see what this author does with a different pair. That said, if you're a fan of KJC or Cat Sebastian and you want another queer historical series to sink your teeth into, and you haven't yet tried these, I would recommend! They aren't too long and they are smartly written. And I still hope to discover a Chambers I'll love in her other series -- or maybe even in the books within this world. Fingers crossed!
3.5 stars
----
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
February 6, 2025
This was utterly lovely. Perfected by Hamish McKinely’s beautiful narration. A very nice ending to three stories showing the relatively slow burn romance between aristocratic Lord Murdo and lower born lawyer David. This had a nicely paced mix of romance and storyline with what felt like effortless historical accuracy. Both characters were intelligent and genuine, both had impressive growth throughout the trilogy and their early chemistry truly seemed to grow to love on the pages. Highly recommend.
October 18, 2020
YES!!! I couldn’t have wished for a more perfect ending to their story! This is definitely one of my all-time favorite series in the genre. Murdo was to die for, and his relationship with David was absolutely gush-worthy. 😍 I haven’t been this satisfied by a romance novel/series in a while.
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