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Gothic Love Stories #1
Too Wicked to Kiss
HIS TOUCH HOLDS HER CAPTIVE
From the ravens circling its spires to the gargoyles adorning its roof, Blackberry Manor looms ominously over its rambling grounds. And behind its doors, amid the flickering shadows and secret passageways, danger lies in wait…
TO HIS EVERY DARK DESIRE
Evangeline Pemberton has been invited to a party at the sprawling estate of reclusive Gavin Lioncroft, who is rumored to have killed in cold blood. Initially, his towering presence and brusque manner instill fear… until his seductive attentions and unexpected vulnerability conquer her resistance.
But when a guest is murdered, Evangeline is torn. Could the man to whom she is so powerfully drawn, also be a ruthless killer?
From the ravens circling its spires to the gargoyles adorning its roof, Blackberry Manor looms ominously over its rambling grounds. And behind its doors, amid the flickering shadows and secret passageways, danger lies in wait…
TO HIS EVERY DARK DESIRE
Evangeline Pemberton has been invited to a party at the sprawling estate of reclusive Gavin Lioncroft, who is rumored to have killed in cold blood. Initially, his towering presence and brusque manner instill fear… until his seductive attentions and unexpected vulnerability conquer her resistance.
But when a guest is murdered, Evangeline is torn. Could the man to whom she is so powerfully drawn, also be a ruthless killer?
424 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2010
1567 people are currently reading
2229 people want to read
About the author
Erica Ridley
133 books2,214 followersGet freebies and 99¢ deals at: https://ridley.vip
Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels, including THE DUKE HEIST, featuring the Wild Wynchesters. Why seduce a duke the normal way, when you can accidentally kidnap one in an elaborately planned heist?
In the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!
Two popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found eating couscous in Morocco, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.
Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels, including THE DUKE HEIST, featuring the Wild Wynchesters. Why seduce a duke the normal way, when you can accidentally kidnap one in an elaborately planned heist?
In the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!
Two popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found eating couscous in Morocco, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 373 reviews
July 27, 2016
*3.5 stars*
An interesting, entertaining romance that flits between gothic and classic recency in style, but ends up being a mash-up of both.
Overall, I think Erica Ridley did a nice job with this one. Regency romance is beginning to be my favorite sub-genre in romance, and books like this one reminds me why. It was romantic, with a good helping of sexual tension, with a passionate, strong female MC and a misunderstood male MC. It set up to be a great story, but it had a few very peculiar twists and turns.
It isn't extremely common to read historical romance with paranormal twists, but this story has one. Evangeline has "visions" that she can't control, and when she touches someone she can see snippets of their past or future. Only Gavin, the male MC, seems to not generate any visions when she touches him (shocker). I'm not sure how I felt about the paranormal elements in this story. Evangeline's visions were sort of central to the plot, but I don't think it really helped my enjoyment of the story. I prefer paranormal elements to be more in-your-face, more like a full on different magical world (The Magpie Lord) than just a sprinkle here or there.
I also wasn't crazy about the endless twists and turns, the mystery element of the story. It is sort of like a whodunit, where you are trying to figure out a killer for the whole story. I'll admit that I was really clueless who the culprit was, so kudos on that, but mystery isn't really my thing. I think that the plot went on for way too long, and I wish it was cut down a bit with some of the mystery elements cast aside.
So what did I like? Well, I really enjoyed the dialogue between the two MCs, and really all of the dialogue in the story. I think Erica Ridley has a way with words, and I thought that the banter was really on point. I also liked how she gave the scenes great descriptions and atmosphere, and I could picture the setting and people very easily.
The romance was also successful, though not epic by any means. However, I liked the initial attraction morphing into a slow-build romance, and I thought that Evangeline and Gavin were a well-matched couple. I started off reading this story in little bits, putting the book down and then picking it up again, but as I moved further into the story, I found myself wanting to read on and on to find out what happens in the end.
I'm excited for where this series will take me, and I think Erica Ridley has some great ideas. I think this is a series that will continue to grow and improve as the author gets into the groove.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
An interesting, entertaining romance that flits between gothic and classic recency in style, but ends up being a mash-up of both.
Overall, I think Erica Ridley did a nice job with this one. Regency romance is beginning to be my favorite sub-genre in romance, and books like this one reminds me why. It was romantic, with a good helping of sexual tension, with a passionate, strong female MC and a misunderstood male MC. It set up to be a great story, but it had a few very peculiar twists and turns.
It isn't extremely common to read historical romance with paranormal twists, but this story has one. Evangeline has "visions" that she can't control, and when she touches someone she can see snippets of their past or future. Only Gavin, the male MC, seems to not generate any visions when she touches him (shocker). I'm not sure how I felt about the paranormal elements in this story. Evangeline's visions were sort of central to the plot, but I don't think it really helped my enjoyment of the story. I prefer paranormal elements to be more in-your-face, more like a full on different magical world (The Magpie Lord) than just a sprinkle here or there.
I also wasn't crazy about the endless twists and turns, the mystery element of the story. It is sort of like a whodunit, where you are trying to figure out a killer for the whole story. I'll admit that I was really clueless who the culprit was, so kudos on that, but mystery isn't really my thing. I think that the plot went on for way too long, and I wish it was cut down a bit with some of the mystery elements cast aside.
So what did I like? Well, I really enjoyed the dialogue between the two MCs, and really all of the dialogue in the story. I think Erica Ridley has a way with words, and I thought that the banter was really on point. I also liked how she gave the scenes great descriptions and atmosphere, and I could picture the setting and people very easily.
The romance was also successful, though not epic by any means. However, I liked the initial attraction morphing into a slow-build romance, and I thought that Evangeline and Gavin were a well-matched couple. I started off reading this story in little bits, putting the book down and then picking it up again, but as I moved further into the story, I found myself wanting to read on and on to find out what happens in the end.
I'm excited for where this series will take me, and I think Erica Ridley has some great ideas. I think this is a series that will continue to grow and improve as the author gets into the groove.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
October 4, 2025
I’m shocked and low-key mortified by how much I enjoyed this book.
🕯️🕯️🕯️
Evangeline is desperate, penniless and on the run from her abusive stepfather. She’s also clairvoyant and has a pure heart (obvs). Gavin is a grumpy recluse with a dark, dark past. He’s as brooding and tormented as brooding-and-tormented heroes get. Borderline trashy, some would say. Some, but not me!
There’s a creepy manor with secret passages, there are terrifying villains, and there’s a murder mystery that my black soul always appreciates.
It doesn’t really make sense why I enjoyed the romance so much, because it’s not my type of book. To my defense, I have Covid, it might have affected my sense of taste 🤷♀️
So, speaking of books that are not my type, there are four more books in this series. 👀
🕯️🕯️🕯️
Evangeline is desperate, penniless and on the run from her abusive stepfather. She’s also clairvoyant and has a pure heart (obvs). Gavin is a grumpy recluse with a dark, dark past. He’s as brooding and tormented as brooding-and-tormented heroes get. Borderline trashy, some would say. Some, but not me!
There’s a creepy manor with secret passages, there are terrifying villains, and there’s a murder mystery that my black soul always appreciates.
It doesn’t really make sense why I enjoyed the romance so much, because it’s not my type of book. To my defense, I have Covid, it might have affected my sense of taste 🤷♀️
So, speaking of books that are not my type, there are four more books in this series. 👀
March 26, 2022
Ha…Erica Ridley for starters and gothic romance the subject…what a delicious dessert…
Evangeline’s precarious situation at her home after the death of her mother forces her to flee for safety but it was a case of fuel to the already burning fire. Arriving at Blackberry Manor as an unexpected guest and facing the dangers hidden inside its walls is more than what she bargained for. Gavin as the tortured and brooding hero was a wonderful character and the rumors of his murderous tendency provide the perfect background for that eerie gothic vibe.
As death strikes Blackberry manor and suspicion rears its head, Evangeline’s psychic gift is the only thing that would probably help Gavin escape the hangman’s noose. The slow-build romance from initial attraction was fantastic to read about which is something that the author always excels at and the paranormal elements add to the effect of mystery and intrigue in this captivating novel. There was a feeling of locked-room Agatha Christie whodunnit in this novel as each member of the house party had reasons for doing away with the victim.
There is more than one complication to overcome for the HEA but it was the murder mystery rather than the romance that had me reading late into the night. Gothic Romances have crowded my reading pile currently but boy am I glad for it! This had the additional allure of physic heroine which thrilled me to the core.
Looking forward to reading all the books in the series.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
Evangeline’s precarious situation at her home after the death of her mother forces her to flee for safety but it was a case of fuel to the already burning fire. Arriving at Blackberry Manor as an unexpected guest and facing the dangers hidden inside its walls is more than what she bargained for. Gavin as the tortured and brooding hero was a wonderful character and the rumors of his murderous tendency provide the perfect background for that eerie gothic vibe.
As death strikes Blackberry manor and suspicion rears its head, Evangeline’s psychic gift is the only thing that would probably help Gavin escape the hangman’s noose. The slow-build romance from initial attraction was fantastic to read about which is something that the author always excels at and the paranormal elements add to the effect of mystery and intrigue in this captivating novel. There was a feeling of locked-room Agatha Christie whodunnit in this novel as each member of the house party had reasons for doing away with the victim.
There is more than one complication to overcome for the HEA but it was the murder mystery rather than the romance that had me reading late into the night. Gothic Romances have crowded my reading pile currently but boy am I glad for it! This had the additional allure of physic heroine which thrilled me to the core.
Looking forward to reading all the books in the series.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
February 17, 2010
I stayed up late last night and then finshed the last 10 pages this morning before work. I had such fun with this book. The h/h were awesome! The secondary characters were so robust. There was so much humor I actually laughed out lound at times and enough mystery to keep me guessing. This author is going to be on the must buy list for sure!!
January 19, 2010
If you would have spoken to me six months ago and asked me to read a historical romance I would have laughed and said…that’s so 10 years ago for me. See, I cut my teeth on Julie Garwood, Amanda Quick and authors of the like when I first started reading romance. I don’t want to say that I outgrew them, just that I had a change of heart. Too Wicked to Kiss brought me back to why I used to love historicals. The meeting of romance, a little magic and a love story all wrapped up in one pretty package. I forgot how much I enjoyed feeling a part of two characters discovering their attraction for each other, falling in love and creating an enthralling love story out of the experience. After being on a steady diet of contemporary and paranormal romances, it was nice to change up the dynamic of the falling in ‘lust’ and then love for the opposite.
Ms. Ridley, exceeded any expectations that I had for this book! If you’ve ever been a fan of Godsford Park then this is the book for you! Although the time periods are different, I loved the similarities of the stuffy sophisticates all coming together to solve the mystery of just who murdered one of their own. Through many twists and turns we begin to see that first impressions can prove to be misleading and to not assume that anyone is innocent! The only hint I can give you is that it was the Colonel Mustard with the rope in the billiard room. (evil laugh ensues)
Evangeline is desperate to escape her stepfather’s evil clutches. She places her life in the hand of her mother’s childhood friend in hopes that she can help her escape. She is unaware of the manipulative tendencies of Lady Stratford until it is too late! Now Evangeline must help Ms. Stratford trap mysterious Lionsheart into marriage with her daughter. Little does Evangeline know that this is no ordinary gentleman but a man with a reputation for murder. She is to spend two weeks trapped in the house of an alleged killer and she has given her word to Lady Stratford that she will help or else. A murder has been committed, all eyes turn immediately to Gavin Lionscroft and given his public displays of temper, it will take a special someone to help prove his innocence. Miss Evangeline Pemberton must use her special powers to unlock just who is the killer.
Evangeline is a character you can really connect with, passionate, caring, you really emphasize with her situation. Running away from her abusive stepfather, only to be mislead by the selfish Lady Stratford,you can’t help but want to read along and see what becomes of Evangeline. Gavin is a character you want to sink your teeth into. Intimidating, closed off, he sees something in Evangeline that the others cannot and she in him. Gavin without Evangeline’s assistance will be blamed for the murder if she doesn’t help him by using her gift. When he finds out that Evangeline is a part of Lady Stratford’s plan he corners Evangeline into helping him find the murder, despite the toll it takes on her. Crushed, Evangeline only wants to leave and get away from people that use her.
This fast-paced, page-turner examines how an error in judgment can lead to cataclysmic events that will posses a person for the rest of their lives. It is in the love and forgiveness of another that maybe we can be good again. That maybe our own sense of failure and guilt can we washed clean just by someone believing in us. For anyone who is looking for a great mystery and poignant love story, this is a story not to be missed. Here’s looking at you kid.
P.S. I loved that we got a little paranormal with Evangeline’s Gift and I liked how intensely I connected with the story but not in a crazy Danielle Steel kind of way.
Rating 4 Smokin’ Smooches
Ms. Ridley, exceeded any expectations that I had for this book! If you’ve ever been a fan of Godsford Park then this is the book for you! Although the time periods are different, I loved the similarities of the stuffy sophisticates all coming together to solve the mystery of just who murdered one of their own. Through many twists and turns we begin to see that first impressions can prove to be misleading and to not assume that anyone is innocent! The only hint I can give you is that it was the Colonel Mustard with the rope in the billiard room. (evil laugh ensues)
Evangeline is desperate to escape her stepfather’s evil clutches. She places her life in the hand of her mother’s childhood friend in hopes that she can help her escape. She is unaware of the manipulative tendencies of Lady Stratford until it is too late! Now Evangeline must help Ms. Stratford trap mysterious Lionsheart into marriage with her daughter. Little does Evangeline know that this is no ordinary gentleman but a man with a reputation for murder. She is to spend two weeks trapped in the house of an alleged killer and she has given her word to Lady Stratford that she will help or else. A murder has been committed, all eyes turn immediately to Gavin Lionscroft and given his public displays of temper, it will take a special someone to help prove his innocence. Miss Evangeline Pemberton must use her special powers to unlock just who is the killer.
Evangeline is a character you can really connect with, passionate, caring, you really emphasize with her situation. Running away from her abusive stepfather, only to be mislead by the selfish Lady Stratford,you can’t help but want to read along and see what becomes of Evangeline. Gavin is a character you want to sink your teeth into. Intimidating, closed off, he sees something in Evangeline that the others cannot and she in him. Gavin without Evangeline’s assistance will be blamed for the murder if she doesn’t help him by using her gift. When he finds out that Evangeline is a part of Lady Stratford’s plan he corners Evangeline into helping him find the murder, despite the toll it takes on her. Crushed, Evangeline only wants to leave and get away from people that use her.
This fast-paced, page-turner examines how an error in judgment can lead to cataclysmic events that will posses a person for the rest of their lives. It is in the love and forgiveness of another that maybe we can be good again. That maybe our own sense of failure and guilt can we washed clean just by someone believing in us. For anyone who is looking for a great mystery and poignant love story, this is a story not to be missed. Here’s looking at you kid.
P.S. I loved that we got a little paranormal with Evangeline’s Gift and I liked how intensely I connected with the story but not in a crazy Danielle Steel kind of way.
Rating 4 Smokin’ Smooches
March 31, 2023
Another neo-gothic romance riffing on classic tropes, but this one is more successful than that lead balloon TAINTED BY TEMPTATION.
What it does well: snappy dialogue + amusing quips, gothic backdrop, genuine perils, enjoyable MCs.
What it doesn’t do well: overloaded plot, paranormal aspects, plot moppets, whodunnit.
TOO WICKED is something of a mashup between Regency rom-com, Clue, & Victoria Holt, with psychic visions thrown in…not a common combination, which is nice, but also not easy to mesh. It feels too long overall—particularly the Clue story & antics of various plot moppets—but at least I can appreciate that ER was trying to give everything equal pagetime & not leave any one thread undercooked. Even so, the (fairly basic) whodunnit trudges on ad nauseam, & I don’t think the paranormal twist added any depth to the story that couldn’t have been worked in without supernatural padding; Evangeline’s aversion to touch & claustrophobia & horrible childhood could all be aspects of non-paranormal mental issues & external abuses, so why bother with the psychic stuff? It just felt like unnecessary page-filler…nor is it alluded to in the blurb, so perhaps the publishers were afraid it might scare readers away. *shrug*
…That said, the aspects where it’s successful are strong points in its favor, as they’re the meat & potatoes of any good gothic. And I can’t even tell you how rare it is for me to chuckle when reading dialogue that’s supposed to be funny—Susan & Evangeline’s conversations charmed me with their dry humor & outrageous implausibility. (Also, the gift of a blackberry seedling, aka “the pot of dirt,” was too cute.) So for those reasons, I’m not opposed to reading this author again.
What it does well: snappy dialogue + amusing quips, gothic backdrop, genuine perils, enjoyable MCs.
What it doesn’t do well: overloaded plot, paranormal aspects, plot moppets, whodunnit.
TOO WICKED is something of a mashup between Regency rom-com, Clue, & Victoria Holt, with psychic visions thrown in…not a common combination, which is nice, but also not easy to mesh. It feels too long overall—particularly the Clue story & antics of various plot moppets—but at least I can appreciate that ER was trying to give everything equal pagetime & not leave any one thread undercooked. Even so, the (fairly basic) whodunnit trudges on ad nauseam, & I don’t think the paranormal twist added any depth to the story that couldn’t have been worked in without supernatural padding; Evangeline’s aversion to touch & claustrophobia & horrible childhood could all be aspects of non-paranormal mental issues & external abuses, so why bother with the psychic stuff? It just felt like unnecessary page-filler…nor is it alluded to in the blurb, so perhaps the publishers were afraid it might scare readers away. *shrug*
…That said, the aspects where it’s successful are strong points in its favor, as they’re the meat & potatoes of any good gothic. And I can’t even tell you how rare it is for me to chuckle when reading dialogue that’s supposed to be funny—Susan & Evangeline’s conversations charmed me with their dry humor & outrageous implausibility. (Also, the gift of a blackberry seedling, aka “the pot of dirt,” was too cute.) So for those reasons, I’m not opposed to reading this author again.
August 9, 2019
Evangeline will go to any length to escape her monster of a step-father. She will even place herself in the care of the conniving Lady Stratford, and risk staying with brooding murderer, Lord Lioncroft.
I received a free copy of the Gothic Love Stories box-set from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Evangeline is desperate to be rid of her step-father - the man guilty of killing her mother, and prone to fits of violence. As far as the law is concerned, she is his legal property until she comes of age in a month's time. And her step-father is not willing to let her escape him, he intends to put her skills to good use and make his fortune.
It's no wonder that she jumps at the opportunity to be whisked away by Lady Stanton and her daughter, to go to a house party held by an outcast. Evangeline doesn't pause to wonder why her acquaintances are so keen to have her on board.
Gavin Lioncroft is a recluse. After being blamed for the death of his parents ten years ago, he was shunned by society, and Gavin has spent every day since shunning them back. He has a savage nature, and is not tempered by the rules of the ton. He doesn't think twice about lashing out against the brute who married his sister.
When the same odious brother-in-law is found dead in Gavin's house, everyone is convinced that Lioncroft is the killer. Only Evangeline and her unusual skills can aid him.
I really enjoyed this story.
I felt so sorry for Evangeline, and understood her reluctance to get close (physically or mentally) to anyone. She's independent, and doesn't fit in with the upper class, nor the servants, so she's often alone. I liked how she started to accept the friendship of Susan Stanton and Gavin's nieces.
Gavin has been punishing himself for a decade, and he's finally forced to be civil with other people. I loved watching them mend the relationship between him and his sister. Gavin stays true to himself, with a fierceness and unpredictability. That being said, there were some endearingly sweet scenes, as he clearly can't hide his growing feelings for Evangeline.
The plot was generally good. I thought that everyone was a bit blase that a) someone had died in the house and, b) the murderer was still there.
I know they all had their own secrets to protect, but everyone was far too relaxed.
In the second half of the book, I thought things got a bit repetitive - and not just looping the plot, there were instances of repeating phrases and conversations in quick succession.
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. I enjoyed it and look forward to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of the Gothic Love Stories box-set from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Evangeline is desperate to be rid of her step-father - the man guilty of killing her mother, and prone to fits of violence. As far as the law is concerned, she is his legal property until she comes of age in a month's time. And her step-father is not willing to let her escape him, he intends to put her skills to good use and make his fortune.
It's no wonder that she jumps at the opportunity to be whisked away by Lady Stanton and her daughter, to go to a house party held by an outcast. Evangeline doesn't pause to wonder why her acquaintances are so keen to have her on board.
Gavin Lioncroft is a recluse. After being blamed for the death of his parents ten years ago, he was shunned by society, and Gavin has spent every day since shunning them back. He has a savage nature, and is not tempered by the rules of the ton. He doesn't think twice about lashing out against the brute who married his sister.
When the same odious brother-in-law is found dead in Gavin's house, everyone is convinced that Lioncroft is the killer. Only Evangeline and her unusual skills can aid him.
I really enjoyed this story.
I felt so sorry for Evangeline, and understood her reluctance to get close (physically or mentally) to anyone. She's independent, and doesn't fit in with the upper class, nor the servants, so she's often alone. I liked how she started to accept the friendship of Susan Stanton and Gavin's nieces.
Gavin has been punishing himself for a decade, and he's finally forced to be civil with other people. I loved watching them mend the relationship between him and his sister. Gavin stays true to himself, with a fierceness and unpredictability. That being said, there were some endearingly sweet scenes, as he clearly can't hide his growing feelings for Evangeline.
The plot was generally good. I thought that everyone was a bit blase that a) someone had died in the house and, b) the murderer was still there.
I know they all had their own secrets to protect, but everyone was far too relaxed.
In the second half of the book, I thought things got a bit repetitive - and not just looping the plot, there were instances of repeating phrases and conversations in quick succession.
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. I enjoyed it and look forward to the rest of the series.
August 11, 2019
'Too Wicked to Kiss' is book one in the Scoundrels & Secrets' Series. This is the story of Evangeline Pemberton and Gavin Lioncroft. When I see Ms. Ridley name on a book I know I will be getting a really good story and this one did not let me down.
Evangeline is headed to a party along with other guest to the reclusive Lioncroft estate. Gavin has been rumored to have killed his parents but nothing was proven. Evangeline is attracted to Gavin as he is with her when they first meet..but now there has been another murder. Has Evangeline let her heart rule her mind or does Gavin just have bad luck? This book got me in from the first few sentences!
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Evangeline is headed to a party along with other guest to the reclusive Lioncroft estate. Gavin has been rumored to have killed his parents but nothing was proven. Evangeline is attracted to Gavin as he is with her when they first meet..but now there has been another murder. Has Evangeline let her heart rule her mind or does Gavin just have bad luck? This book got me in from the first few sentences!
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2019
He was a recluse, rumors abound about his murderous ways, but when Evangeline Pemberton showed up to the party at Blackberry Manor, the young lady’s curiosity led her to discover more than a handsome, yet dangerous man, too bad there was a murderer on the loose, hiding within the walls of the manor. Can she discover who the murderer is? Can she unmask who Gavin really is?
Once again, Erica Ridley makes Gothic romance more than heaving bosoms and delicate young ladies. She has taken a deadly mystery, added two wonderful main characters and created a tale of budding love and romance to free two hearts strangled by the burdens of their pasts.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from WebMotion! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Gothic Love Stories - Book 1
Publisher: WebMotion; 2 edition (August 2, 2019)
Publication Date: August 2, 2019
Genre: Historical Romance
Print Length: 424 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Once again, Erica Ridley makes Gothic romance more than heaving bosoms and delicate young ladies. She has taken a deadly mystery, added two wonderful main characters and created a tale of budding love and romance to free two hearts strangled by the burdens of their pasts.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from WebMotion! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Gothic Love Stories - Book 1
Publisher: WebMotion; 2 edition (August 2, 2019)
Publication Date: August 2, 2019
Genre: Historical Romance
Print Length: 424 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
April 6, 2020
2.75 OK STARS
This HR has a slight paranormal twist, as the heroine - Evangeline has visions of a person's past and future (snippets) when she touches them, something she cannot control.
This book had an interesting premise and it made for a light one time read, but it didn't ensnare by attention as I hope it would. I liked some of the dialogue between the MCs but wanted a bit more intensity and heat to radiate off the pages. I also felt that the tension that should have manifested due to Evangeline's horrible stepfather didn't occur. The ending lacked oomph and I felt loose ends still needed to be tied up.
Potential Triggers:
Freebie on amazon.
This HR has a slight paranormal twist, as the heroine - Evangeline has visions of a person's past and future (snippets) when she touches them, something she cannot control.
This book had an interesting premise and it made for a light one time read, but it didn't ensnare by attention as I hope it would. I liked some of the dialogue between the MCs but wanted a bit more intensity and heat to radiate off the pages. I also felt that the tension that should have manifested due to Evangeline's horrible stepfather didn't occur. The ending lacked oomph and I felt loose ends still needed to be tied up.
Potential Triggers:
Freebie on amazon.
April 27, 2010
WOW! This is, hands down, one of the best books I've read in a long time. It surpassed my expectations, delivering a gritty historical, paranormal romance and a hint of Clue. I'm not typically a fan of historicals, but Erica's clever website and blurb had me intrigued. When I saw the cover I knew, right then and there that I had to read it. Even better, I won a signed copy of it! I read it, slowly, soaking in each and every single word. Her descriptions had me hooked into the story. I could leave it for days, get back to it and feel I never left it. This is a book I'll read again, and have just purchased an ebook copy so I don't damage my signed copy by over reading it.
Will there be more? Oh I am hoping!
Will there be more? Oh I am hoping!
August 26, 2010
Excellent! I was hooked and could not put this book down. Everything about this was top notch, the writing, the setting, the story. . . . I love tortured heros and strong heroines.
August 3, 2019
3.5 stars
It took me a while to get into this story, the descriptions of the house were a little over the top in trying to create a gothic atmosphere. I did like the paranormal aspect of Evangeline’s gift and I enjoyed the growing connection between Evangeline and Gavin. There was also a murder mystery to solve and the ever present threat of her stepfather. There were a number of intriguing secondary characters to add extra interest. I will read the next in this series to see what happens with Evangeline’s friend, Susan.
It took me a while to get into this story, the descriptions of the house were a little over the top in trying to create a gothic atmosphere. I did like the paranormal aspect of Evangeline’s gift and I enjoyed the growing connection between Evangeline and Gavin. There was also a murder mystery to solve and the ever present threat of her stepfather. There were a number of intriguing secondary characters to add extra interest. I will read the next in this series to see what happens with Evangeline’s friend, Susan.
August 23, 2019
Regency gothic delights!
Delightful gothic romp through four charming novels each with a different focus be it crippling psychic abilities, pirates or people with strange gifts. We have a bluestocking, a ton desirable, a rake and a governess, all with a different story to tell.
The full length novels are all Too Readable to stop:
Too Wicked to Kiss (Book 1)
Too Sinful to Deny (Book 2)
Too Tempting to Resist (Book 3)
Too Wanton to Wed (Book 4)
I thoroughly enjoyed these re-released novels that have now been published simultaneously. No waiting for the next in the series!
An added bonus for me is that I hadn't read these tales before.
An Author Collective 20 ARC via NetGalley
Delightful gothic romp through four charming novels each with a different focus be it crippling psychic abilities, pirates or people with strange gifts. We have a bluestocking, a ton desirable, a rake and a governess, all with a different story to tell.
The full length novels are all Too Readable to stop:
Too Wicked to Kiss (Book 1)
Too Sinful to Deny (Book 2)
Too Tempting to Resist (Book 3)
Too Wanton to Wed (Book 4)
I thoroughly enjoyed these re-released novels that have now been published simultaneously. No waiting for the next in the series!
An added bonus for me is that I hadn't read these tales before.
An Author Collective 20 ARC via NetGalley
February 24, 2010
Erica Ridley tries to bring back an atmospheric gothic romance with Too Wicked To Kiss. The blurb on this books states, “A skillful blend of Gothic mystery and steamy romance” from Karen Rose. This is a mystery with a romance, but not so steamy and skilled as I was expecting. My main issue that caused me not to finish this book is that Erica laid it on a bit too think with the whole atmosphere of what a gothic romance is. There’s a castle that makes a perfect dark setting, a hero who may or may have no killed his parents and is in seclusion, and a heroine on the run from her degenerate step-father who abused her mother. The hapless heroine also has a secret power at her fingertips that would have probably gotten her burned at the stake as a witch if this were Salem, 1692.
Evangeline Pemberton is forced to go to a house party by a truly wretched woman and her annoying twit of a daughter. Mommy Wretch wants Annoying Daughter to snag the alleged parent killer, Gavin Lioncroft. The stage is set much like out of the movie Clue where we have many outlandish characters. Not only does Gavin brood and snarl, but his countess sister, who is married to a faithless abuser, actually smacks her so hard, that she has a very noticeable mark on her cheek. At a dinner party, where the one-dimensional suspects are on display, there is an unneeded extended scene about this horrible display of spousal abuse that really doesn’t set the mood or add tension to the overall story. It just shows how a barely restrained Gavin is close to beating his brother-in-law into pulp. Gavin does eventually get his revenge by strangling his brother-in-law to the point he has his own bruising. This seemed odd to me since Gavin has such disdain and disgust for his sister and her family.
But then Gavin’s sister’s fink of a husband is found murdered in his bed and because of his throat bruising, the guests all assume Gavin must have killed him. From that moment on there is lurking around dark halls, Gavin cornering Evangeline where he tries to kiss her even though she is a sacred rabbit around him. And because she is so scared of him, he takes his anger out on her and acts like a wounded bear. Poor Evangeline, who I really wanted a much better written story for, is doomed from her evil step father who’s on his way to take her back, the staff who crosses their fingers whenever they walk by her because they know all about her special powers and the Lady Wretch and her Annoying Daughter who walk around making snide comments.
I’m not sure if Erica meant to poke fun at the Gothics of the past with her own story, but the characters’ actions and plot failed to excite and had me rolling my eyes as I turned each page. Unfortunately because of this, I didn’t care to know who the killer was and if Gavin would carry Evangeline of the magic hands away to his tower to protect her as well as ravish her in all his angsty, brooding glory.
Evangeline Pemberton is forced to go to a house party by a truly wretched woman and her annoying twit of a daughter. Mommy Wretch wants Annoying Daughter to snag the alleged parent killer, Gavin Lioncroft. The stage is set much like out of the movie Clue where we have many outlandish characters. Not only does Gavin brood and snarl, but his countess sister, who is married to a faithless abuser, actually smacks her so hard, that she has a very noticeable mark on her cheek. At a dinner party, where the one-dimensional suspects are on display, there is an unneeded extended scene about this horrible display of spousal abuse that really doesn’t set the mood or add tension to the overall story. It just shows how a barely restrained Gavin is close to beating his brother-in-law into pulp. Gavin does eventually get his revenge by strangling his brother-in-law to the point he has his own bruising. This seemed odd to me since Gavin has such disdain and disgust for his sister and her family.
But then Gavin’s sister’s fink of a husband is found murdered in his bed and because of his throat bruising, the guests all assume Gavin must have killed him. From that moment on there is lurking around dark halls, Gavin cornering Evangeline where he tries to kiss her even though she is a sacred rabbit around him. And because she is so scared of him, he takes his anger out on her and acts like a wounded bear. Poor Evangeline, who I really wanted a much better written story for, is doomed from her evil step father who’s on his way to take her back, the staff who crosses their fingers whenever they walk by her because they know all about her special powers and the Lady Wretch and her Annoying Daughter who walk around making snide comments.
I’m not sure if Erica meant to poke fun at the Gothics of the past with her own story, but the characters’ actions and plot failed to excite and had me rolling my eyes as I turned each page. Unfortunately because of this, I didn’t care to know who the killer was and if Gavin would carry Evangeline of the magic hands away to his tower to protect her as well as ravish her in all his angsty, brooding glory.
January 22, 2013
This book was so good. I stayed up waaaay past my bedtime one night reading it and got up very early in the morning to finish it. My husband got up at 2:20 AM and came out of the bedroom and asked me, "Do you know what time it is?" I should have asked him if he had a date or something.
Anyway, the book had me from the very beginning. I didn't know what to expect from Gavin, thinking he was some sort of psycho-nut recluse and I could tell that Evangeline wasn't going to really take part in Susan's mother's quest to have Susan marry Gavin. As for Susan's mother, I wanted to hit her in the face with a shovel many times throughout the story. She was a witch with a capital B! She was an old crow!
The story was filled with mystery and intrigue and what a love story it turned out to be. It left me with a smile on my face and a warm fuzzy feeling.
I loved it and I loved Gavin and Evangeline. They just had it going on. :)
Anyway, the book had me from the very beginning. I didn't know what to expect from Gavin, thinking he was some sort of psycho-nut recluse and I could tell that Evangeline wasn't going to really take part in Susan's mother's quest to have Susan marry Gavin. As for Susan's mother, I wanted to hit her in the face with a shovel many times throughout the story. She was a witch with a capital B! She was an old crow!
The story was filled with mystery and intrigue and what a love story it turned out to be. It left me with a smile on my face and a warm fuzzy feeling.
I loved it and I loved Gavin and Evangeline. They just had it going on. :)
July 18, 2016
I like to read Erica's books. She always comes up with the best story lines. This is no exception. She has given us a touch of paranormal in a dark castle. I fell for her characters here. Spoilers! Gavin is an outcast after his parents died. Spoiler. He meets with Evangeline when she arrives with Susan and her snooty mother who wants to compromise her daughter with Gavin. Spoiler. There is a house party for Jane, Gavin's 13 year old niece. Now it gets tricky. Everyone needs a dead body in the creepy castle and sure enough someone is murdered. Surprise. Evangeline has a Gift to help find the murderer. Major Spoiler.It gets complicated the farther you read. It pulls you in and doesn't let you go. There is death, a snooty mother, a daughter who doesn't want to marry and a birthday party. Oh, did I forgot the secret passages? I hope you are curious enough to chance reading this story. Enjoy! PS there is a second book! I have this book for an honest review for NetGalley.
August 26, 2016
Kindly received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This was nothing like what I expected. I was looking forward for a Judith McNaught or Johanna Lindsey type book but that wasn't what I got. For more than 80% of the book that is.
Let me say the first half of the book stayed true to the gothic romance style. I got the same feelings I had when I first read Jane Eyre. The same eerie feeling. At first I wanted to stop the book but then I continued. It was a pretty curiosity inducing book and I loved every second of it. I loved how the mystery that ran through out the story with hint of subtle romance. But then everything turned around about 80% into it. Then it began to be one of your usual historical/regency romance novels. I guess thats' the reason I won't give the book a 4 star rating. Other than that the whole thing was pretty good.
A job well done for the author for providing us with such a good book.
Actual Rating= 3.5 stars
This was nothing like what I expected. I was looking forward for a Judith McNaught or Johanna Lindsey type book but that wasn't what I got. For more than 80% of the book that is.
Let me say the first half of the book stayed true to the gothic romance style. I got the same feelings I had when I first read Jane Eyre. The same eerie feeling. At first I wanted to stop the book but then I continued. It was a pretty curiosity inducing book and I loved every second of it. I loved how the mystery that ran through out the story with hint of subtle romance. But then everything turned around about 80% into it. Then it began to be one of your usual historical/regency romance novels. I guess thats' the reason I won't give the book a 4 star rating. Other than that the whole thing was pretty good.
A job well done for the author for providing us with such a good book.
Actual Rating= 3.5 stars
August 2, 2019
I do loved this story which mixes a historical setting with a bit of paranormal and a mystery to solve but at time I struggled to like the heroine.
The hero is dark, brooding with fit of temper, but to me, he never gave proof to be the ruthless murdered he is accused to be. Sure he is easily angered when he sees abuse but it does not make him a monster.
And for ten years he payed a deep price for his recklessness and late teen mistakes. He was seventeen when the events which sealed his fate occurred, not yet an adult.
Sure, Evangeline’s upbringing was violent and filed with abuses and made her weary of men, but she is quick to judge and pass her veto on those she thinks guilty. While Gavin tried at each turn to win her trust, even when her omission or some miscommunication showed her in a bad light, he always forgave her.
And m each time he expressed his faith in her by confessing his own errors and secrets, she censured him and played hot and cold with his feelings, never able accept him for the man he is, flaws and gifts.
Why I found her often inconstant and shallow, lacking of trust for the one man she says she is in love. Hopefully she apologized every time she doubted him.
And after all, it is what makes us human, our faults and goods. It is not always pleasant to see our own defects in others, why Mrs Ridley did a great job with her different characters as the wide range of personalities was a perfect representation of the good and bad in the human being.
4.5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author and I had previously preordered the full series. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
The hero is dark, brooding with fit of temper, but to me, he never gave proof to be the ruthless murdered he is accused to be. Sure he is easily angered when he sees abuse but it does not make him a monster.
And for ten years he payed a deep price for his recklessness and late teen mistakes. He was seventeen when the events which sealed his fate occurred, not yet an adult.
Sure, Evangeline’s upbringing was violent and filed with abuses and made her weary of men, but she is quick to judge and pass her veto on those she thinks guilty. While Gavin tried at each turn to win her trust, even when her omission or some miscommunication showed her in a bad light, he always forgave her.
And m each time he expressed his faith in her by confessing his own errors and secrets, she censured him and played hot and cold with his feelings, never able accept him for the man he is, flaws and gifts.
Why I found her often inconstant and shallow, lacking of trust for the one man she says she is in love. Hopefully she apologized every time she doubted him.
And after all, it is what makes us human, our faults and goods. It is not always pleasant to see our own defects in others, why Mrs Ridley did a great job with her different characters as the wide range of personalities was a perfect representation of the good and bad in the human being.
4.5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author and I had previously preordered the full series. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
April 1, 2021
✨Gavin Lioncroft. In the bedroom. With a Byronic hero complex and a rakish smile.✨
If you didn’t guess, Too Wicked to Kiss reminded me a lot of Clue and Knives Out! This was totally a whodunnit at its core, with the romance playing second fiddle—but like a gothic-spicy-Hitchcock sounding fiddle that fits the overall aesthetic. It was definitely slow burn, but when the two finally succumbed to the ~forbidden~ it was worth the wait. I was totally invested in the murder-mystery and didn’t have a clue as to who the culprit was for 90% of the book. Every culprit had motive and I got turned around and guessed wrong about a hundred times.
This was my first gothic historical romance—sans Wuthering Heights but let’s be real, tis not a romance until the very end—and second Erica Ridley novel I’ve read. The jury hath come back and I’m guilty of falling ass over head in love with her writing. She has a wonderful way of pairing vulnerability and humor on the page, and I can’t get enough. After dabbling with the ol gothic vibes, I think this could be a new genre I like! I am at least going to continue the series and then maybe I’ll do a retrial—double jeopardy notwithstanding. It felt basically like a topsy-turvy historical romance, so pretty much the same as any other I’ve read, but everything just felt a bit off kilter and disorienting—but in a good way. I also liked the vision aspect with Evangeline, which felt a bit paranormal.
There were a few rendezvous around the manor before the Spicy Scene™ but it all led up to the one moment, since there was only that one explicit moment. In most other romance novels, I probably would have been miffed about only one grand finale and no encore or double encore or triple encore, but the supporting characters and plot kept me appeased. The scene was also incredibly raw, emotional, and vulnerable and I absolutely loved Evangeline’s questions.
I also learned a new word: assignation. You will definitely catch me using that in future reviews. I also learned that the plural of rendezvous is simply rendezvous—we love the simplicity. I’m also coming to learn that the phrase “make a cake of” is a favorite of Erica’s, and now it’s a favorite of mine. I also loved the nickname “goose” that Susan and Evangeline used; I call my sister goose all the time and it made me chuckle.
I would have loved for Evangeline to go all WMMA on pretty much every character’s ass at some point or another. I am of the firm belief that she needed to plant them all facers and clean their clocks, especially Mrs. Stanton ugh. She verbally dressed her down once but that simply was not enough for that wench. I did love Susan’s full 180° she pulled at the end and I already have her book waiting for me.
I did like how Gavin did mistrust Evangeline at times, which was refreshing because he didn’t completely make excuses for her. However, I did get frustrated with Evangeline and her holier-than-thou attitude (she even admitted it was a problem), especially in that final scene. **spoiler alert ahead beedoobeedoo** I mean seriously, she couldn’t reconcile with Gavin accidently having a hand in his parents’ death? Even for that brief moment she hesitated. Like it was a complete accident and unintentional and I don’t know why it was so hard for her to be like “damn that sucks and I see why you blame yourself but also I love you and it was an accident.” Anyhoo, it didn’t go on for too long but it still made me scoff.
TW: Domestic Abuse and Child Abuse (not between the MCs)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.75/5
If you didn’t guess, Too Wicked to Kiss reminded me a lot of Clue and Knives Out! This was totally a whodunnit at its core, with the romance playing second fiddle—but like a gothic-spicy-Hitchcock sounding fiddle that fits the overall aesthetic. It was definitely slow burn, but when the two finally succumbed to the ~forbidden~ it was worth the wait. I was totally invested in the murder-mystery and didn’t have a clue as to who the culprit was for 90% of the book. Every culprit had motive and I got turned around and guessed wrong about a hundred times.
This was my first gothic historical romance—sans Wuthering Heights but let’s be real, tis not a romance until the very end—and second Erica Ridley novel I’ve read. The jury hath come back and I’m guilty of falling ass over head in love with her writing. She has a wonderful way of pairing vulnerability and humor on the page, and I can’t get enough. After dabbling with the ol gothic vibes, I think this could be a new genre I like! I am at least going to continue the series and then maybe I’ll do a retrial—double jeopardy notwithstanding. It felt basically like a topsy-turvy historical romance, so pretty much the same as any other I’ve read, but everything just felt a bit off kilter and disorienting—but in a good way. I also liked the vision aspect with Evangeline, which felt a bit paranormal.
There were a few rendezvous around the manor before the Spicy Scene™ but it all led up to the one moment, since there was only that one explicit moment. In most other romance novels, I probably would have been miffed about only one grand finale and no encore or double encore or triple encore, but the supporting characters and plot kept me appeased. The scene was also incredibly raw, emotional, and vulnerable and I absolutely loved Evangeline’s questions.
I also learned a new word: assignation. You will definitely catch me using that in future reviews. I also learned that the plural of rendezvous is simply rendezvous—we love the simplicity. I’m also coming to learn that the phrase “make a cake of” is a favorite of Erica’s, and now it’s a favorite of mine. I also loved the nickname “goose” that Susan and Evangeline used; I call my sister goose all the time and it made me chuckle.
I would have loved for Evangeline to go all WMMA on pretty much every character’s ass at some point or another. I am of the firm belief that she needed to plant them all facers and clean their clocks, especially Mrs. Stanton ugh. She verbally dressed her down once but that simply was not enough for that wench. I did love Susan’s full 180° she pulled at the end and I already have her book waiting for me.
I did like how Gavin did mistrust Evangeline at times, which was refreshing because he didn’t completely make excuses for her. However, I did get frustrated with Evangeline and her holier-than-thou attitude (she even admitted it was a problem), especially in that final scene. **spoiler alert ahead beedoobeedoo** I mean seriously, she couldn’t reconcile with Gavin accidently having a hand in his parents’ death? Even for that brief moment she hesitated. Like it was a complete accident and unintentional and I don’t know why it was so hard for her to be like “damn that sucks and I see why you blame yourself but also I love you and it was an accident.” Anyhoo, it didn’t go on for too long but it still made me scoff.
TW: Domestic Abuse and Child Abuse (not between the MCs)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.75/5
January 1, 2017
Disappointing. Two and a half stars.
I have to confess I don't like historical novels where there is an element of the paranormal, in this case our heroine Evangeline has visions when she touches another human being except, conveniently, the brooding host of the ton house party she has been dragged along to by a distant 'friend' of her late mother's.
Gavin Lioncourt is generally accepted to be a murderer, his home is dark and ugly, the rooms have no windows and he is bad-tempered and brooding - can anyone say Heathcliffe?
When Gavin's brother-in-law Lord Hetherington is found dead in his bed obviously Gavin is the main suspect, especially since all his guests witnessed Gavin violently threaten him that night for hitting Gavin's sister Rose.
I don't think Erica Ridley nailed the gothic novel she was aiming for, the plot descended into farce with too many cute moppets running around, and frankly the ending was weak. I mean what happened to? And why didn't anything happen after?
Much longer than the other books by this author I have been reading recently but sadly not as good.
I have to confess I don't like historical novels where there is an element of the paranormal, in this case our heroine Evangeline has visions when she touches another human being except, conveniently, the brooding host of the ton house party she has been dragged along to by a distant 'friend' of her late mother's.
Gavin Lioncourt is generally accepted to be a murderer, his home is dark and ugly, the rooms have no windows and he is bad-tempered and brooding - can anyone say Heathcliffe?
When Gavin's brother-in-law Lord Hetherington is found dead in his bed obviously Gavin is the main suspect, especially since all his guests witnessed Gavin violently threaten him that night for hitting Gavin's sister Rose.
I don't think Erica Ridley nailed the gothic novel she was aiming for, the plot descended into farce with too many cute moppets running around, and frankly the ending was weak. I mean what happened to? And why didn't anything happen after?
Much longer than the other books by this author I have been reading recently but sadly not as good.
March 6, 2022
This book did not work for me on so many levels. It was too many things at once: a gothic romance, a paranormal story, and a murder mystery. It didn't excel at any one. The beginning was so over-the-top, crammed with gothic descriptions, it should have been a parody, but didn't have the finesse to pull it off. It was boring. What could have been said in one paragraph took three pages. I fell asleep several times. The story did improve slightly past the 50% mark, shaking off much of the gloom, but it didn't last. The 3rd act drama was brought on by Evangeline's stupid choices.
None of the above issues disturbed me as much as Ridley's habit of creating scenarios without any follow through. This is the second book which left practical matters dangling. In this one it was the corpse. It set up the whodunit, but what happened to the body? Did it get taken away? Was it buried or chilling in the cellar? The house party continued without any reference to mourning, such as armbands or black clothing. There was another major incident left up in the air as well. Since it's a spoiler I won't dig it up. Bwahahaha.
None of the above issues disturbed me as much as Ridley's habit of creating scenarios without any follow through. This is the second book which left practical matters dangling. In this one it was the corpse. It set up the whodunit, but what happened to the body? Did it get taken away? Was it buried or chilling in the cellar? The house party continued without any reference to mourning, such as armbands or black clothing. There was another major incident left up in the air as well. Since it's a spoiler I won't dig it up. Bwahahaha.
September 7, 2015
I'd read The Viscount's Christmas Temptation and thoroughly enjoyed it - it was an energetic & funny read - so I was keen to read more by Erica Ridley. Unfortunately, none of her other books seem to have the same sense of wit & character as that novella. This - and her other full-length books - sacrifice character coherence to plot. There is so much plot, so many incidents (not all of them logical, even), that there is no room for character development.
April 3, 2020
The book was too long, several chapters not necessary or drawn out.
The language was not time appropriate, some phrases didn't exist at that time ("mad as a hatter" wasn't used before 1827), and there were more present-day idioms.
I didn't like the main characters, on one hand Evangeline claimed to be no member of the ton, on the other hand she spoke very frank to the other titled house guests.
The mansion was a hyperbole of a gothic castle, guest rooms and salons without windows and few candles only, secret passage ways behind every wall.....
Sorry, not my cup of tea.
The language was not time appropriate, some phrases didn't exist at that time ("mad as a hatter" wasn't used before 1827), and there were more present-day idioms.
I didn't like the main characters, on one hand Evangeline claimed to be no member of the ton, on the other hand she spoke very frank to the other titled house guests.
The mansion was a hyperbole of a gothic castle, guest rooms and salons without windows and few candles only, secret passage ways behind every wall.....
Sorry, not my cup of tea.
September 13, 2019
This is a DNF for me. I know I was warned that this wasn’t Erica Ridley’s usual style but I didn’t realize how much I would miss that style. And I do. This was just moving along too slowly for me.
*I received an eARC (of all 4 books in one) from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*I received an eARC (of all 4 books in one) from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2011
I really liked this book. I've never read anything 'gothic' before, so it was alot of fun to read. I will admit, as others have suggested, that it isn't 'steamy', but definately a fun read.
August 4, 2019
Too Wicked to Kiss by Erica Ridley
Gothic Love Stories #1
Evangeline Pemberton is on the run. She believes her mother’s friend, Lady Stanton, will keep her safe from her evil stepfather. In borrowed clothes she is drug along to compromise Gavin Lioncraft...well to assist in compromising him so that Susan Stanton can marry him. Evangeline is NOT happy with the idea but is willing to do just about anything to remain safe from her abusive murderous stepfather.
The first time Evangeline and Gavin set eyes on one another sparks fly. Of course Evangeline is sure it is fear of a “murderer” that has her tingling but...is it? Susan is not ready to settle down even though she is ready to leave her mother behind. There is another young woman on the marriage market and she is not enamored with the man her father has chosen for her. Rose, Gavin’s sister, comes to dinner with bruises put there by her husband, and Gavin is incensed. The house party is off to a rollicking start with a dinner followed by dancing and everyone rather put out. Later...Rose’s husband is found dead but...who is the murderer?
This book had romance, plenty of people that could have killed a man nobody liked, some games, an evil stepfather, a woman with paranormal abilities often called a witch, plenty of people to like and a lot more to dislike. It was dark and creepy and just what it was supposed to be.
Did I like this book? Yes
Do I want to read more in this series? Definitely!
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Gothic Love Stories #1
Evangeline Pemberton is on the run. She believes her mother’s friend, Lady Stanton, will keep her safe from her evil stepfather. In borrowed clothes she is drug along to compromise Gavin Lioncraft...well to assist in compromising him so that Susan Stanton can marry him. Evangeline is NOT happy with the idea but is willing to do just about anything to remain safe from her abusive murderous stepfather.
The first time Evangeline and Gavin set eyes on one another sparks fly. Of course Evangeline is sure it is fear of a “murderer” that has her tingling but...is it? Susan is not ready to settle down even though she is ready to leave her mother behind. There is another young woman on the marriage market and she is not enamored with the man her father has chosen for her. Rose, Gavin’s sister, comes to dinner with bruises put there by her husband, and Gavin is incensed. The house party is off to a rollicking start with a dinner followed by dancing and everyone rather put out. Later...Rose’s husband is found dead but...who is the murderer?
This book had romance, plenty of people that could have killed a man nobody liked, some games, an evil stepfather, a woman with paranormal abilities often called a witch, plenty of people to like and a lot more to dislike. It was dark and creepy and just what it was supposed to be.
Did I like this book? Yes
Do I want to read more in this series? Definitely!
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
April 18, 2024
Well that was an absolute hoot. This was a fresh take on the enemies to lovers bodice ripper. I especially loved how the book dives right into the action, 3 women in a coach headed somewhere, one completely in the dark running from trauma, no needless exposition, no time to take in the countryside. Just run.
There’s a breathless quality to the plot both in feel and scheme and it makes for a great ride.
The murder untangling takes its time, the characters are very well drawn and it’s a witty book, laugh out loud funny at times coupled with the inevitable, well, coupling.
Suspend your disbelief regarding visions and the society betterment their owner clings to and you have a well plotted, funny, sexy romance
Will definitely be carrying on with the series
M 2024 (e-book)
There’s a breathless quality to the plot both in feel and scheme and it makes for a great ride.
The murder untangling takes its time, the characters are very well drawn and it’s a witty book, laugh out loud funny at times coupled with the inevitable, well, coupling.
Suspend your disbelief regarding visions and the society betterment their owner clings to and you have a well plotted, funny, sexy romance
Will definitely be carrying on with the series
M 2024 (e-book)
November 16, 2025
Erica Ridley was on my to-read list for ages and I absolutely loved her well flowing, full of humor, descriptive, evocative style! Evangeline is such a vivid character. The gothic elements of murder and special powers are very well done. Gavin is a great MMC, with right amount of mysterious and misunderstood woven in. For sure will be reading more of Erica Ridley!
April 22, 2020
*I received a free copy of Too Wicked to Kiss. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*
What a great gothic / historical romance. With a murder mystery and very compelling characters, I was pretty much spellbound.
What a great gothic / historical romance. With a murder mystery and very compelling characters, I was pretty much spellbound.
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