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Blackhaven Brides #4
The Wicked Husband
Welcome to Book 4 in the bestselling BLACKHAVEN BRIDES series! Notorious young rakehell, Lord Daxton, wakes up in Blackhaven with a monumental hangover – and a wife. Willa Blake, his old childhood friend and poor relation of his sworn enemy, has her own reasons for eloping with him to Gretna Green – not least the fact that she’s been in love with him since she was fourteen years old. Now they both have to face the consequences of their hasty marriage, which include not only scandal but attempted murder, accusations of theft and several duels, not to mention the fury of Daxton’s mistress and the determination of his mother to have the marriage annulled. Yet among all the chaos and unexpected fun of life with Daxton, Willa’s childish crush deepens into adult love. But will Dax, a man of impulse and passion, ever face up to his responsibilities, let alone return her love?
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2018
564 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
Mary Lancaster
139 books517 followersMary Lancaster is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance. She lives in Scotland with her husband, one of three grown-up kids, and a small dog with a big personality.
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 7, 2020
2.75 stars
June 20, 2020
Yet another cracking read from Mary Lancaster. There are a lot of familiar themes here - a rake reformed, an elopement, the downtrodden poor relation who’s been in love with the hero for years, a former mistress and a whole heap of duels. In other hands these could be tired old cliches, but the author makes everything fresh and fun.
Here’s the premise: Willa Blake is the aforementioned downtrodden poor relation, treated as an unpaid servant and subject to routine humiliation from her cousin Ralph. And this is how she bumps into the hero, for Lord Daxton (Dax) is in the middle of a monumental gaming session with Ralph, who’s losing badly. He sends for Willa to bring him a purse of money, and then insists she stay and watch, while all around there are wild, drunken men and borderline anarchy. It’s not a place any gently brought up young lady should be. Our hero Dax recognises Willa and despite being roaring drunk, chivalrously wants to protect her. When he’s won even the extra money from Ralph, he takes Willa away from the scene and somehow decides he’ll marry her. They end up heading straight for the border, being married over the anvil at Gretna and heading for home. Whereupon Dax, having been up gambling for three nights straight, falls into a sound sleep. When he wakes up, he’s a bit hazy about what happened…
I really liked Dax. Rakes are always charmers but they can also be selfish beasts, too, and Dax epitomises the type. Once he’s been reminded that he’s married, he decides he quite likes it and squires Willa about town, buying her new clothes and enjoying showing her off to everyone. But of course there are wobbly moments too, and he’s somewhat tested when both his former mistress and his mother turn up, determined to have the marriage annulled. Fortunately Willa is a delightfully pragmatic bride, not at all phased by his hungover rages. Of course, knowing that he only married her on a whim, she can’t possibly tell him that she’s been in love with him for years, so she suffers in silence through all the shenanigans going on on the background, including was it three duels? Good grief.
I have to say that I wasn’t entirely convinced that Dax would manage to stay contented and faithful for the rest of his life, but that’s the universal problem with rakes - do they ever truly reform? I could very easily believe, though, that he himself believes it at that moment. He intends to be faithful, so perhaps he’ll manage it.
My only grumble on historical accuracy grounds is that, despite all the talk of an annulment, it was incredibly difficult to get one in the Regency, and since one of the characters actually explains the point, I was a bit confused as to why it was even an issue. Beyond that, the writing is pretty accurate to the period. There is some lusting and a small amount of graphic sex, for those who are concerned about that.
As so often in this series, Mary Lancaster has created a likable but slightly bad-boy hero, a demure and downtrodden heroine and a fun, if implausible, adventure in the background. It’s an entertaining romp, very funny and highly recommended. Five stars.
Here’s the premise: Willa Blake is the aforementioned downtrodden poor relation, treated as an unpaid servant and subject to routine humiliation from her cousin Ralph. And this is how she bumps into the hero, for Lord Daxton (Dax) is in the middle of a monumental gaming session with Ralph, who’s losing badly. He sends for Willa to bring him a purse of money, and then insists she stay and watch, while all around there are wild, drunken men and borderline anarchy. It’s not a place any gently brought up young lady should be. Our hero Dax recognises Willa and despite being roaring drunk, chivalrously wants to protect her. When he’s won even the extra money from Ralph, he takes Willa away from the scene and somehow decides he’ll marry her. They end up heading straight for the border, being married over the anvil at Gretna and heading for home. Whereupon Dax, having been up gambling for three nights straight, falls into a sound sleep. When he wakes up, he’s a bit hazy about what happened…
I really liked Dax. Rakes are always charmers but they can also be selfish beasts, too, and Dax epitomises the type. Once he’s been reminded that he’s married, he decides he quite likes it and squires Willa about town, buying her new clothes and enjoying showing her off to everyone. But of course there are wobbly moments too, and he’s somewhat tested when both his former mistress and his mother turn up, determined to have the marriage annulled. Fortunately Willa is a delightfully pragmatic bride, not at all phased by his hungover rages. Of course, knowing that he only married her on a whim, she can’t possibly tell him that she’s been in love with him for years, so she suffers in silence through all the shenanigans going on on the background, including was it three duels? Good grief.
I have to say that I wasn’t entirely convinced that Dax would manage to stay contented and faithful for the rest of his life, but that’s the universal problem with rakes - do they ever truly reform? I could very easily believe, though, that he himself believes it at that moment. He intends to be faithful, so perhaps he’ll manage it.
My only grumble on historical accuracy grounds is that, despite all the talk of an annulment, it was incredibly difficult to get one in the Regency, and since one of the characters actually explains the point, I was a bit confused as to why it was even an issue. Beyond that, the writing is pretty accurate to the period. There is some lusting and a small amount of graphic sex, for those who are concerned about that.
As so often in this series, Mary Lancaster has created a likable but slightly bad-boy hero, a demure and downtrodden heroine and a fun, if implausible, adventure in the background. It’s an entertaining romp, very funny and highly recommended. Five stars.
January 4, 2018
When he was wicked- he was good. ;)
This is the fourth book in a series of books about a group of characters who all live in, visit, or simply pass thru the small seaside English village of Blackhaven. In this story, Willa Blake is a poor relation of a hurtful family who has no life of her own. She is in the town with the family and quite by fate ends up meeting with her childhood crush, Lord Daxton. At the tail end of this meeting, Willa escapes the clutches of her relatives and ends up eloping with Dax to Gretna Green that very evening!
Dax is a renowned rake and carouser. He has problems with women, gambling, and drinking. But Willa remembers Dax as a wonderful young boy who treated her with kindness, when often no one else around her had done so.
Can she make this work? Was it a mistake? Will there be consequences for running from her rather evil relatives? This was a wonderful story filled with longing, romance, a bit of intrigue that had from start to finish. I highly recommend both the book and the series to romance readers. I hope there are a few stories more to come....
I was given this as an arc which affected my review in no way at all.
This is the fourth book in a series of books about a group of characters who all live in, visit, or simply pass thru the small seaside English village of Blackhaven. In this story, Willa Blake is a poor relation of a hurtful family who has no life of her own. She is in the town with the family and quite by fate ends up meeting with her childhood crush, Lord Daxton. At the tail end of this meeting, Willa escapes the clutches of her relatives and ends up eloping with Dax to Gretna Green that very evening!
Dax is a renowned rake and carouser. He has problems with women, gambling, and drinking. But Willa remembers Dax as a wonderful young boy who treated her with kindness, when often no one else around her had done so.
Can she make this work? Was it a mistake? Will there be consequences for running from her rather evil relatives? This was a wonderful story filled with longing, romance, a bit of intrigue that had from start to finish. I highly recommend both the book and the series to romance readers. I hope there are a few stories more to come....
I was given this as an arc which affected my review in no way at all.
January 4, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Willa is the put upon younger cousin of a broke and Very cruel Lord Shelby.
Since her parents died she’s been his ward , treated as a servant by her Aunt and pregnant female cousin .
Then one evening she’s required to take a purse to Shelby who is in a high stakes game with her childhood crush Viscount Daxton .
When Dax sees the way she is treated he convinces her to marry him , she knows he’s drunk , but excepts him and they elope , after all things couldn’t get any worse, could they?
I have to say this is the first book I’ve read from Mary Lancaster, it’s the 4th in this series, but I was able to get straight into the story , it was very addictive.
I adore Dax , such a charmer, he has a way with him that at times you want to slap him for being so immature at others you fall head over heels for him , Willa deals brilliantly with him , gently pulling him back into line . A great relationship.
This won’t be the last one I read of this author.
Highly recommend
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
💋💋
Willa is the put upon younger cousin of a broke and Very cruel Lord Shelby.
Since her parents died she’s been his ward , treated as a servant by her Aunt and pregnant female cousin .
Then one evening she’s required to take a purse to Shelby who is in a high stakes game with her childhood crush Viscount Daxton .
When Dax sees the way she is treated he convinces her to marry him , she knows he’s drunk , but excepts him and they elope , after all things couldn’t get any worse, could they?
I have to say this is the first book I’ve read from Mary Lancaster, it’s the 4th in this series, but I was able to get straight into the story , it was very addictive.
I adore Dax , such a charmer, he has a way with him that at times you want to slap him for being so immature at others you fall head over heels for him , Willa deals brilliantly with him , gently pulling him back into line . A great relationship.
This won’t be the last one I read of this author.
Highly recommend
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
January 4, 2018
This was such a fun story to read. Lord Daxton has been given an ultimatum from his mother. Angry and upset, he proceeds to drink and gamble and in the process obtains a wife. Willa, who has always had feelings for Dax, is happy with the situation. She has the man of her dreams and is away from her Cinderella existence with her family. The interaction between Dax and WIlla is superb. Having had a longstanding acquaintance, there is a nice familiarity between the two. Willa is a very strong female, who Dax respects and slowly begins to fall in love with his wife. Their road to love isn't easy, but it is time well spent with this one!
September 26, 2018
Willa Blake is but a servant in her aunt's household, at the beck and call of her family, mostly her cousin, Ralph, who would do anything to humiliate her in retaliation for a past "incident". Which means Willa finds herself in the middle of a disreputable card party in order to bring her cousin his mother's money and encounters her childhood crush, playing dice with her wretched cousin.
Charles Dacre, Viscount Daxton, immediately recognizes little "Willie" and makes her a daring offer that will save them both; her from her family's clutches and him from having to rely on his father to pay off his debts. They'd elope and get married in Scotland...
The absolute best in this series (so far).
Although the reasons for Dax's "misbehavior" remained a mystery, I loved to see his reformation thanks to Willa. He wanted to be a better man for her and because of her, and he accomplished that. Willa paled a little in comparison with her hero, and there was no monumental change in her character, except for her finding her gumption, but she was sweet and caring, her gentle nature perfectly complimenting Dax's more erratic one.
I loved their romance. It might've come across as rather rushed, but the fact the two were somewhat childhood friends helped. It was both sweet and tender and passionately hot and I really enjoyed reading their scenes together.
The characters from previous stories made their requisite cameos or longer appearances, the next hero had a little more screen time, the wicked mother-in-law's change of mind was thankfully swift, the villain was "pleasantly" twisted, the other villain was simply a bitch, and the suspense quite nicely done.
I loved the various relationships, friendships, and interactions, I loved the main protagonists and their friends and acquaintances, the suspense provided that little pinch of intrigue, the pacing was spot-on...Loved it.
Charles Dacre, Viscount Daxton, immediately recognizes little "Willie" and makes her a daring offer that will save them both; her from her family's clutches and him from having to rely on his father to pay off his debts. They'd elope and get married in Scotland...
The absolute best in this series (so far).
Although the reasons for Dax's "misbehavior" remained a mystery, I loved to see his reformation thanks to Willa. He wanted to be a better man for her and because of her, and he accomplished that. Willa paled a little in comparison with her hero, and there was no monumental change in her character, except for her finding her gumption, but she was sweet and caring, her gentle nature perfectly complimenting Dax's more erratic one.
I loved their romance. It might've come across as rather rushed, but the fact the two were somewhat childhood friends helped. It was both sweet and tender and passionately hot and I really enjoyed reading their scenes together.
The characters from previous stories made their requisite cameos or longer appearances, the next hero had a little more screen time, the wicked mother-in-law's change of mind was thankfully swift, the villain was "pleasantly" twisted, the other villain was simply a bitch, and the suspense quite nicely done.
I loved the various relationships, friendships, and interactions, I loved the main protagonists and their friends and acquaintances, the suspense provided that little pinch of intrigue, the pacing was spot-on...Loved it.
January 4, 2018
The Wicked Husband by Mary Lancaster
5 Stars
One of the things I truly love about Mary Lancaster’s books are her characters. She makes her characters so realistic and identifiable, meaning many of us may see aspects of ourselves in their personality and characteristics. She takes realistic situations and turns them into a fascinating, unpredictable, story. As the reader, we get to witness the complete evolution of Dex and Willa from flawed examples of society into stronger, more self confident characters with purpose. This isn’t a routine romance novel. It’s filled with drama, intrigue, and emotion. I personally have enjoyed all of the books in this series, and The Wicked Husband, Book 4, is no exception. This is one you won’t want to put down. Each book can be read as a stand-alone text, however I’d recommend reading them in order to gain the basis on which to build the basis of the story.
5 Stars
One of the things I truly love about Mary Lancaster’s books are her characters. She makes her characters so realistic and identifiable, meaning many of us may see aspects of ourselves in their personality and characteristics. She takes realistic situations and turns them into a fascinating, unpredictable, story. As the reader, we get to witness the complete evolution of Dex and Willa from flawed examples of society into stronger, more self confident characters with purpose. This isn’t a routine romance novel. It’s filled with drama, intrigue, and emotion. I personally have enjoyed all of the books in this series, and The Wicked Husband, Book 4, is no exception. This is one you won’t want to put down. Each book can be read as a stand-alone text, however I’d recommend reading them in order to gain the basis on which to build the basis of the story.
March 4, 2022
Willa and Dax knew each other as children. They meet again when her cousin tries to humiliate her by making her come into a gaming party with the kind of women who sit on laps and wear provacative dresses.
Anywho Dax is drunk and they run off to Gretna Green and elope. And that strangely is the last moment without angst.
Because now everyone is after them. Her cousin hiresca man to kill Dax, an old mistress wants him back , many hired guns, Dax's mom. Oh my.
Strangely Dax wants Willa to love him and he thinks she doesn't. I guess he thinks she is just grateful and likes him. Silly man. He gets in many fights over his jealousy.
You would think after the love making he would have some idea but alas no. There is a lot if drama over everyone trying to get between them. It's more than a soap opera during sweeps week honestly.
Anywho Dax is drunk and they run off to Gretna Green and elope. And that strangely is the last moment without angst.
Because now everyone is after them. Her cousin hiresca man to kill Dax, an old mistress wants him back , many hired guns, Dax's mom. Oh my.
Strangely Dax wants Willa to love him and he thinks she doesn't. I guess he thinks she is just grateful and likes him. Silly man. He gets in many fights over his jealousy.
You would think after the love making he would have some idea but alas no. There is a lot if drama over everyone trying to get between them. It's more than a soap opera during sweeps week honestly.
January 4, 2018
This story was rather good indeed. Daxton had been a womanizer and I thought this plot suited him and Willa Blake very well. Daxton is known for his reputation of gaming and women. Willa is basically a ward in service to her aunt and not so kind cousins. She is a servant who is exhausted at this point. Then one evening she is summoned by her cousin to bring him something. Her life changes literally that evening when she comes face to face with her childhood crush. Dax is fairly drunk and lives to instigate her cousin. Dax makes a proposition to her that will benefit them both.
I received this story as a gift. I really got into this story and wanted an epilogue. Unfortunately, there was not one.
I received this story as a gift. I really got into this story and wanted an epilogue. Unfortunately, there was not one.
January 4, 2018
Is he Wicked?
Willa is so tired from all of the tasks that her Aunt and cousin had her do. Finally she can lay down and rest for the rest of the night. No such luck, Haines, her aunts maid send Willa downstairs to hand a purse to her cousin Ralph. Little did Willa realize that this one action would change her life. This is a great book to read and find out who is wicked.
Willa is so tired from all of the tasks that her Aunt and cousin had her do. Finally she can lay down and rest for the rest of the night. No such luck, Haines, her aunts maid send Willa downstairs to hand a purse to her cousin Ralph. Little did Willa realize that this one action would change her life. This is a great book to read and find out who is wicked.
January 14, 2019
Another amazing story in the Blackhaven Bride series. I know if Blackhaven existed, I would love to go there. You are put in the town and the story with old and new characters. The story draws you in from the beginning to the end. What fun and excitement abound.
September 17, 2018
4 stars
And another winner for the Blackhaven series. :)
I love Dax and Willie together. Also, the marriage of convenience trope is one of my favorites, so .
There was again just something missing to make it a 5 star read. Maybe something just a little off about the characters that bugged me (and mind, I cannot really pinpoint anything, it's just a feeling, I know, I can be nitpicky). Also,
And for a small town a lot of iffy, intrigue abounds. :D
All in all, another great (and fun) romance!
And another winner for the Blackhaven series. :)
I love Dax and Willie together. Also, the marriage of convenience trope is one of my favorites, so .
There was again just something missing to make it a 5 star read. Maybe something just a little off about the characters that bugged me (and mind, I cannot really pinpoint anything, it's just a feeling, I know, I can be nitpicky). Also,
And for a small town a lot of iffy, intrigue abounds. :D
All in all, another great (and fun) romance!
January 8, 2018
Sweet
Sweet uplifting romance. It's a simple, feel-good romance which is light in conflicts. But I love the heroine's character. In fact Willa's character is what I look for in a heroine. Cool, calm, dignified, intelligent and sensible in the face of adversity. I would have given a higher rating had there been a bit more angst. There was but quickly resolved. And it would have been nice if there was an epilogue. I'd love to read more of their future together.
Sweet uplifting romance. It's a simple, feel-good romance which is light in conflicts. But I love the heroine's character. In fact Willa's character is what I look for in a heroine. Cool, calm, dignified, intelligent and sensible in the face of adversity. I would have given a higher rating had there been a bit more angst. There was but quickly resolved. And it would have been nice if there was an epilogue. I'd love to read more of their future together.
April 12, 2020
Poor Willa is a cousin treated more as a shabby servant than a beloved family member. Being sent to retrieve a purse with money to be gambled, lost, and then blaming her for the loss of the funds. A drunken Lord that she has secretly been in love with for years whiskey her into his carriage and off to Scotland to marry her. When he sabers up and discovers he has not only ruined but married the innocent. He steps up, exposes her vile cousins and makes a bad situation a happy marriage.
January 9, 2018
Customer Review
5.0 out of 5 stars
A modern day Cinder-“Willa” being saved from a life of drudgery by a Viscount.
By IndianaHappyTraveler on January 9, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
As a child, Willa had a crush on the older boy (Dax) who would stand up for her against the mean cousin with whom she lived. After an 8 year break in ....., they meet when this same cousin puts Willa in an embarrassing situation of delivering his Mother’s purse to a gambling den. He had intimidated her into taking the purse without his Mother’s knowledge, making her a candidate upon whom the theft could be blamed. Of course, the money was lost to Dax. Dax walks off with Willa, and ends up marrying her in Scotland. Of course there is animosity from both families initially over this precipitous marriage, leading to various confrontations. An abandoned mistress comes to reclaim her place, and connives to place Willa in a compromising position. Duels are fought, balls, dinner parties and poetry readings are held as we see Willa and Dax begin to come to know the adult version of their childhood friend. Love blossoms from this childhood friendship.
This is a wonderful book to escape into, as you are quickly drawn to care for Willa in the embarrassing circumstance in which she finds herself when she arrives at the gaming hall. We see a glimpse of the kindness in Dax that he has nearly grown out of as he deals kindly with Willa. There is drama, but of a lighter nature. There is mystery, but it does not become the focus of the story. There is developing love, but not X-rated material. A great book to take on vacation, as it can easily be read in a slow day. This is the 4th book in this series, and I have enjoyed them all.
5.0 out of 5 stars
A modern day Cinder-“Willa” being saved from a life of drudgery by a Viscount.
By IndianaHappyTraveler on January 9, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
As a child, Willa had a crush on the older boy (Dax) who would stand up for her against the mean cousin with whom she lived. After an 8 year break in ....., they meet when this same cousin puts Willa in an embarrassing situation of delivering his Mother’s purse to a gambling den. He had intimidated her into taking the purse without his Mother’s knowledge, making her a candidate upon whom the theft could be blamed. Of course, the money was lost to Dax. Dax walks off with Willa, and ends up marrying her in Scotland. Of course there is animosity from both families initially over this precipitous marriage, leading to various confrontations. An abandoned mistress comes to reclaim her place, and connives to place Willa in a compromising position. Duels are fought, balls, dinner parties and poetry readings are held as we see Willa and Dax begin to come to know the adult version of their childhood friend. Love blossoms from this childhood friendship.
This is a wonderful book to escape into, as you are quickly drawn to care for Willa in the embarrassing circumstance in which she finds herself when she arrives at the gaming hall. We see a glimpse of the kindness in Dax that he has nearly grown out of as he deals kindly with Willa. There is drama, but of a lighter nature. There is mystery, but it does not become the focus of the story. There is developing love, but not X-rated material. A great book to take on vacation, as it can easily be read in a slow day. This is the 4th book in this series, and I have enjoyed them all.
January 5, 2018
Lord and Lady Dax
Willa Blake's Cinderella existence as a poor relation cum companion and unpaid servant to her mean-spirited aunt and cousins took an unprecedented turn in one night. Her hero, though in his words, a trifle disguised, turned out to be Charles Dacre, Viscount Daxton. Her childhood protector and crush.
Though she had not laid eyes upon him in eight long years, he still possessed the face of an angel and the spirit of fun that had so captivated her as a young girl. What could she do but to elope that very night with the drunken lord of her dreams?
There is never a lack of action in Blackhaven! Willa and Dax certainly have their fair share of it during their stay. Lies, intrigue, an inept assassin, a new husband who loves nothing more than to get up to trouble, an ex-mistress who refuses to be dismissed - oh my! A hero who would as soon schedule a duel as take afternoon tea.
The books in the Blackhaven Brides series can be read as standalone novels. I, however, would suggest that you read them all and immerse yourself in this world that Lancaster has created. It's dangerous. It's fun. Away from the glittering ballrooms of London, you're confronted with a seaside town that is not so mired in morals and manners and actually is quite lawless in some respects. Sure, they have their assembly balls, but they also have a tavern, pirates, smugglers, assassins and a town brothel, go figure.
As always, I enjoyed my visit to Blackhaven and I look forward to my next trip. I suggest that everyone get on board. Mary Lancaster is a wonderful storyteller. You will not be disappointed!
Willa Blake's Cinderella existence as a poor relation cum companion and unpaid servant to her mean-spirited aunt and cousins took an unprecedented turn in one night. Her hero, though in his words, a trifle disguised, turned out to be Charles Dacre, Viscount Daxton. Her childhood protector and crush.
Though she had not laid eyes upon him in eight long years, he still possessed the face of an angel and the spirit of fun that had so captivated her as a young girl. What could she do but to elope that very night with the drunken lord of her dreams?
There is never a lack of action in Blackhaven! Willa and Dax certainly have their fair share of it during their stay. Lies, intrigue, an inept assassin, a new husband who loves nothing more than to get up to trouble, an ex-mistress who refuses to be dismissed - oh my! A hero who would as soon schedule a duel as take afternoon tea.
The books in the Blackhaven Brides series can be read as standalone novels. I, however, would suggest that you read them all and immerse yourself in this world that Lancaster has created. It's dangerous. It's fun. Away from the glittering ballrooms of London, you're confronted with a seaside town that is not so mired in morals and manners and actually is quite lawless in some respects. Sure, they have their assembly balls, but they also have a tavern, pirates, smugglers, assassins and a town brothel, go figure.
As always, I enjoyed my visit to Blackhaven and I look forward to my next trip. I suggest that everyone get on board. Mary Lancaster is a wonderful storyteller. You will not be disappointed!
August 13, 2024
She made him a better man.
Willa is elated and dismayed when Dax sweeps her away from her life of elegant servitude. She's always loved her childhood friend, but he's just spitting in her detestable cousin's eye by eloping with her. Plus he wants his inheritance. Not the marriage she wanted but more than she ever dared to wish for. He's an untamed mess, but he's hers. Or is he?
Shock and outrage are the reactions of those who should love the MCs. Her family turns their backs on her and his mother plots for an annulment. Enlists his ex-mistress even. So sad that so-called society is so despicable and backbiting. But for all his shortcomings, Dax never wavers in his resolve to be Willa's husband. He's a good man underneath, despite his wild ways.
Prideful anger and misunderstandings lead to duels for his lady's honor (and because he just really despises Ralph). Assembly dances and quiet nights reading by her side make him see her in a new way. She's a beacon of light that shines most brightly for him. And she doesn't pay any attention to him when he's being difficult. How could he not love her.
A lovely story with mostly great characters that made me tear up a few times at Willa's heartache. She was a diamond forced to hide her shine until Dax came along. He brought her from the shadows and she brought him from his cups. A good match if I do say so myself. The editing could have been better.
Willa is elated and dismayed when Dax sweeps her away from her life of elegant servitude. She's always loved her childhood friend, but he's just spitting in her detestable cousin's eye by eloping with her. Plus he wants his inheritance. Not the marriage she wanted but more than she ever dared to wish for. He's an untamed mess, but he's hers. Or is he?
Shock and outrage are the reactions of those who should love the MCs. Her family turns their backs on her and his mother plots for an annulment. Enlists his ex-mistress even. So sad that so-called society is so despicable and backbiting. But for all his shortcomings, Dax never wavers in his resolve to be Willa's husband. He's a good man underneath, despite his wild ways.
Prideful anger and misunderstandings lead to duels for his lady's honor (and because he just really despises Ralph). Assembly dances and quiet nights reading by her side make him see her in a new way. She's a beacon of light that shines most brightly for him. And she doesn't pay any attention to him when he's being difficult. How could he not love her.
A lovely story with mostly great characters that made me tear up a few times at Willa's heartache. She was a diamond forced to hide her shine until Dax came along. He brought her from the shadows and she brought him from his cups. A good match if I do say so myself. The editing could have been better.
April 10, 2025
The Wicked Husband
(Blackhaven Brides #4)
By Mary Lancaster
I was introduced to this author a month or two ago and have read several of her books. I decided to go through some of her back list and I ended up reading The Wicked Husband.
She writes quick reads with lots of angst, truths, love (be it new or childhood) with a bit of suspense thrown in. In this book you will find two hundred and twelve pages of memories, a mama that stirs her finger in the pie and a couple who are just perfect for each other.
Willa Blake has known Lord Daxon since they were both children running in the fields and spending time being free. Years later they meet again, only this time Daxon is now a well known rake and reconnects with her at an inn. Willa is now in service to a cousins family and cousin Ralph has put her in the spotlight when he insists it’s Willa that has to bring his mother’s purse to pay his gambling debt to Daxton. Oh he may be in his cups, but he remembers Willa and he hates Ralph Shelby and he thinks it’s time Shelby learns a lesson about how to treat others.
And this is when the fun(?) begins. Now Dax and Willa have to catch up with each other while learning the ins and outs of marriage, mother’s and a man who thinks he has everyone fooled when in reality he has fooled very few.
I am really enjoying these Regency era romances that give readers a lot of things that make a short read enjoyable.
(Blackhaven Brides #4)
By Mary Lancaster
I was introduced to this author a month or two ago and have read several of her books. I decided to go through some of her back list and I ended up reading The Wicked Husband.
She writes quick reads with lots of angst, truths, love (be it new or childhood) with a bit of suspense thrown in. In this book you will find two hundred and twelve pages of memories, a mama that stirs her finger in the pie and a couple who are just perfect for each other.
Willa Blake has known Lord Daxon since they were both children running in the fields and spending time being free. Years later they meet again, only this time Daxon is now a well known rake and reconnects with her at an inn. Willa is now in service to a cousins family and cousin Ralph has put her in the spotlight when he insists it’s Willa that has to bring his mother’s purse to pay his gambling debt to Daxton. Oh he may be in his cups, but he remembers Willa and he hates Ralph Shelby and he thinks it’s time Shelby learns a lesson about how to treat others.
And this is when the fun(?) begins. Now Dax and Willa have to catch up with each other while learning the ins and outs of marriage, mother’s and a man who thinks he has everyone fooled when in reality he has fooled very few.
I am really enjoying these Regency era romances that give readers a lot of things that make a short read enjoyable.
May 10, 2019
Typical reformed rake regency? NO WAY
We've all read them - the regency romances featuring the devilishly handsome noble rakehell who is captured and tamed by the sweet little governess, girl-next-door, beautiful damsel-in-distress - pick one - and trots faithfully off to HEA. Mary Lancaster's version, The Wicked Husband, Blackhaven Brides Book 4, may start out sounding similar, but thanks to the (actually not-too-)wicked rake, Lord Daxton, and his heroine, Willa, this one's an engaging spin on the old trope. Willa is the primary reason - she's a grown-up, wise in the ways of her time and place, who has the fire and the courage to leap for what she wants and accept the risk of failure. Of course, she doesn't fail. This gal has class, a bit of sass, a sharp mind and a quick wit, and I adored her! You will too, after reading about her confrontation with the "other woman," and the one with her new MIL-from-Hell, and her deft handling of the smarmy Sir Jeremy... Yeah, I'm gushing. Yeah, she's that awesome a character. Yeah, a it's steamy, non-explicit, totally entertaining regency worth reading and re-reading.
We've all read them - the regency romances featuring the devilishly handsome noble rakehell who is captured and tamed by the sweet little governess, girl-next-door, beautiful damsel-in-distress - pick one - and trots faithfully off to HEA. Mary Lancaster's version, The Wicked Husband, Blackhaven Brides Book 4, may start out sounding similar, but thanks to the (actually not-too-)wicked rake, Lord Daxton, and his heroine, Willa, this one's an engaging spin on the old trope. Willa is the primary reason - she's a grown-up, wise in the ways of her time and place, who has the fire and the courage to leap for what she wants and accept the risk of failure. Of course, she doesn't fail. This gal has class, a bit of sass, a sharp mind and a quick wit, and I adored her! You will too, after reading about her confrontation with the "other woman," and the one with her new MIL-from-Hell, and her deft handling of the smarmy Sir Jeremy... Yeah, I'm gushing. Yeah, she's that awesome a character. Yeah, a it's steamy, non-explicit, totally entertaining regency worth reading and re-reading.
July 13, 2025
Willa Blake is a bit of a Cinderella, working as a drudge for the family members who took her in when her father died. In a wild moment of recklessness, thoroughly-foxed rakehell on a bender, Lord Daxton, convinced her to elope with him to Gretna Green. He had been a playmate in her childhood she had crushed on eight years before. Now that they are married, she accepts him as he is. Dax finds that dissolution no longer satisfies him. But an old enemy seeks revenge, his parents are horrified by his marriage to Willa, and one of his old mistresses tries to lure him back. There are three duels in this tale, which might explain the absence of any in Book 5.
I was completely charmed by this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. There are so many characters in Mary Lancaster's books. The names of the main characters in her books quite often appear in other series. Absent a map or family tree of all the characters in her world, it's sometimes hard to remember who they were in a previous book and what they did. That doesn't detract from the enjoyment though. I can't put them down.
I was completely charmed by this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. There are so many characters in Mary Lancaster's books. The names of the main characters in her books quite often appear in other series. Absent a map or family tree of all the characters in her world, it's sometimes hard to remember who they were in a previous book and what they did. That doesn't detract from the enjoyment though. I can't put them down.
March 10, 2018
A few pages in I was expecting a Cinderella story but was pleasantly surprised it was not. As book four of the series, it carries on characters from the previous book and introduces more, yet can be read as a stand-alone book with no problems. Infused with humor and a good storyline it was a good read. Again Mary Lancaster uses plot twists to keep you actively reading instead of just turning pages. The characters are well developed and not overdone, or just a recast from previous books. I like that. They seem fresh. This book had more villains than the previous books, then again, this thrown together couple had more people working against them! It was just right for a dreary day escape read. I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own without influence.
January 2, 2022
I liked it very much. Romantic, sensual. She is a good writer in the way Mary Balogh is. There are no modern sexual terms for body parts. A recognition of the historical period and not forcing modern sensibilities on women characters. Yet the female characters are still feisty and courageous. There are grammatical errors, however, the most frequent such mistakes e.g. after a preposition (remember those) he gave the rose to Mary and I ugh. Or, of course, the constant misuse of plurals and possessives--these mistakes are throughout Kindle editing. Parent's or Parents' are hosting a party
instead of parents are hosting the party--no possessives.
Again a delightful read without graphic sex scenes.
instead of parents are hosting the party--no possessives.
Again a delightful read without graphic sex scenes.
June 12, 2024
I have to wonder if Mary Lancaster has been inspired by Georgette Heyer's "Friday's Child" for this one.
This is the second book of this series that I have picked up and I am reading them in no particular order. But I definitely see a lot of similarities between Hero/Sherry and Willie/Dax - how they meet and get married, their marriage, the many admirers of Willie (especially that one scene with Lord Tamar). The heroine is much smarter than our poor dear Hero and the H also starts getting the feels much sooner.
Also, the motley crowd (servants included) around them in general and shenanigans they get into (I see inspiration from "Sprig Muslin" and "The Foundling".
All in all, I did like this a lot and am going to start this series from the beginning.
This is the second book of this series that I have picked up and I am reading them in no particular order. But I definitely see a lot of similarities between Hero/Sherry and Willie/Dax - how they meet and get married, their marriage, the many admirers of Willie (especially that one scene with Lord Tamar). The heroine is much smarter than our poor dear Hero and the H also starts getting the feels much sooner.
Also, the motley crowd (servants included) around them in general and shenanigans they get into (I see inspiration from "Sprig Muslin" and "The Foundling".
All in all, I did like this a lot and am going to start this series from the beginning.
June 9, 2022
Bad, bad relatives…
Willa is at her cousins Ralph’s mercy as she is asked to bring him a purse with her aunts money. Unknowingly she walks into a gaming establishment and will incur a fall from society.
Lord Dax is there and cousin Ralph losses his mother’s money to him. Ralph has hated Dax for a long time and is now prepared to have him killed.
Willa is caught in the crossfire as a drunken Dax asks her to elope with him. She has loved him for a long time and she knows this is her only hope to be with him.
Throw in a scheming jealousy ex- lover and a mother in law that both want the marriage dissolved and you have high drama.
The beach wooden spade duel was very funny 😄
Willa is at her cousins Ralph’s mercy as she is asked to bring him a purse with her aunts money. Unknowingly she walks into a gaming establishment and will incur a fall from society.
Lord Dax is there and cousin Ralph losses his mother’s money to him. Ralph has hated Dax for a long time and is now prepared to have him killed.
Willa is caught in the crossfire as a drunken Dax asks her to elope with him. She has loved him for a long time and she knows this is her only hope to be with him.
Throw in a scheming jealousy ex- lover and a mother in law that both want the marriage dissolved and you have high drama.
The beach wooden spade duel was very funny 😄
June 9, 2025
Willa Blake marries Dax (Lord Dayton) in Scotland after he drunkenly proposes to her after she has been called upon to bring a purse to a gaming session by her unpleasant cousin Ralph.
Willa has always had a secret place in her heart for Dax and is more than ready to escape from her home with Ralph and his equally unpleasant mother.
Dax may be careless but is never unkind and gradually he comes to realise he loves Willa.
There are several people who are unhappy about this marriage - including Dax’s mother and ex-mistress. They try to break apart the two who are clearly meant for each other.
This was another very entertaining and enjoyable book in the series.
Willa has always had a secret place in her heart for Dax and is more than ready to escape from her home with Ralph and his equally unpleasant mother.
Dax may be careless but is never unkind and gradually he comes to realise he loves Willa.
There are several people who are unhappy about this marriage - including Dax’s mother and ex-mistress. They try to break apart the two who are clearly meant for each other.
This was another very entertaining and enjoyable book in the series.
January 5, 2020
I loved this story & really enjoyed the fact that the book kept me on pins & needles as to when Dax would bed Willa - would it ever happen - would they have their HEA? So much humor, witty comments, courting, loving & eventually some spice with love as the greatest gift! I also like so many of the supporting cast members, Carson & Clara, Rags, Leigh, Lord & Lady Wickenden & Vicar & Lady Grant - they were all such fun & nice to see some familiar faces from the past. I highly recommend this book & series to everyone & cannon wait until the Wicked Marquis is released!
June 27, 2020
For a Regency romp this was a good book. It was a fast, easy read. I liked the h and hr. The hr accepts the h as he is and doesn't try to change... no nagging. Instead the h changes and becomes a better man on his own. The villians in the story were great. I do wish the h and hr slept together sooner. I hate when married couples don't have sex, especially since he is a rake. The sex scenes were very tame, but the story was good enough it didn't matter. I now wish I had read the other books in the series though this book could be a standalone.
January 6, 2018
What a fun story. I thoroughly enjoyed Dax and Willa’s story. From the first chapter it held my interest and it was so easy to love the characters. This book was such an easy read I could just pick it up and lose myself in the story. This is the first book that I have read of Mary Lancaster’s and I know it won’t be the last.
September 13, 2018
Wicked Husband
Wicked husband indeed, but one with a tender heart. The characters are well developed and engaging. The banter quite funny. Goodness, I didn't want to put this book down. There was a lot of excitement. Willa was perfect for Lord Dax,; she definitely brought out the best in him.
Wicked husband indeed, but one with a tender heart. The characters are well developed and engaging. The banter quite funny. Goodness, I didn't want to put this book down. There was a lot of excitement. Willa was perfect for Lord Dax,; she definitely brought out the best in him.
June 5, 2020
If you are in mood for something light with minimum angst, then this novel is for you.
Predictable, run-of-the-mill story with enough plot and action to easily sail your way to the end. Honestly, these kind of books if you have read one, you have read them all. There's not much that held my attention, but it wasn't a drag so I could finish it without wanting to give up.
Predictable, run-of-the-mill story with enough plot and action to easily sail your way to the end. Honestly, these kind of books if you have read one, you have read them all. There's not much that held my attention, but it wasn't a drag so I could finish it without wanting to give up.
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