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The Stanislaskis #2
Luring a Lady
Return to the second unforgettable book in the Stanislaski family saga by #1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts
Nothing in Sydney Hayward’s background of wealth and privilege had prepared her to take the helm of her grandfather’s business. Her new responsibilities leave no time for complications. Sydney has learned the hard way that she could never trust anyone, but her tenant Mikhail is hard to resist. Down-to-earth, yet stubborn, he comes from a world utterly different from her own. She doesn’t have room in her life for romance—but Mikhail seems to know exactly how to win her over...one smoldering kiss at a time.
Nothing in Sydney Hayward’s background of wealth and privilege had prepared her to take the helm of her grandfather’s business. Her new responsibilities leave no time for complications. Sydney has learned the hard way that she could never trust anyone, but her tenant Mikhail is hard to resist. Down-to-earth, yet stubborn, he comes from a world utterly different from her own. She doesn’t have room in her life for romance—but Mikhail seems to know exactly how to win her over...one smoldering kiss at a time.
250 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 1, 1991
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2512 people want to read
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,172 books58.9k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
September 1, 2022
Meh- very of its time re: "ice queen" heroine, but we do have the wonderful Roberts prose that made it quite readable
February 24, 2020
"Luring a Lady" is the story of Sydney and Mikhail.
What happens when a rich heiress meets a contractor cum famous artist- sparks fly!
When our h takes over her late grandfather's business, her first challenge comes in the form of dissatisfied tenants to a building their family owns. Coming to terms with their deficiences means facing off against the lead tenant- the H. Soon she begins a renovation which changes her life, and gives her the happiness she always craved for.
Another great addition to the The Stanislaskis series. Super alpha yet caring hero, a strong and stubborn heroine, amazing family moments and loads of adorable babies, sexy lovemaking, heartbreaking angst, confessions, denials and a wonderful ending. I absolutely LOVED the honesty in this book!
Safe
4/5
What happens when a rich heiress meets a contractor cum famous artist- sparks fly!
When our h takes over her late grandfather's business, her first challenge comes in the form of dissatisfied tenants to a building their family owns. Coming to terms with their deficiences means facing off against the lead tenant- the H. Soon she begins a renovation which changes her life, and gives her the happiness she always craved for.
Another great addition to the The Stanislaskis series. Super alpha yet caring hero, a strong and stubborn heroine, amazing family moments and loads of adorable babies, sexy lovemaking, heartbreaking angst, confessions, denials and a wonderful ending. I absolutely LOVED the honesty in this book!
Safe
4/5
May 27, 2016
Due to today's great variety of books of all diffetent genres, it's easy to forget what romance is all about. Nora Roberts was already a master at spinning romantic tales when she wrote Luring A Lady back in the 1990’s.
Sidney Hayward and Mikhail Stanislaskis are the exact opposite of one another, however they couldn’t have been more perfect together. Sidney has a privileged upbringing, has recently assumed the head of the Hayward corporation, and is fundamentally insecure regarding relationships. Mikhail is a gorgeous son of white collar immigrants, and an easy going artist. Despite the differences, his love for Sydney is unconditional, and he is not afraid to openly declare it. It seems that he was exactly what she needed.
Couldn’t have been a sweeter love story, with a great couple as lead. The whole Stanislaskis family is an awesome experience in itself and they make great supporting characters. Sidney’s problematic mother further enriches the tale.
Another hit for Nora Roberts. Highly recommended for funs of pure romantic plots or you are looking for a light and pleasurable read. Enjoy it!
Sidney Hayward and Mikhail Stanislaskis are the exact opposite of one another, however they couldn’t have been more perfect together. Sidney has a privileged upbringing, has recently assumed the head of the Hayward corporation, and is fundamentally insecure regarding relationships. Mikhail is a gorgeous son of white collar immigrants, and an easy going artist. Despite the differences, his love for Sydney is unconditional, and he is not afraid to openly declare it. It seems that he was exactly what she needed.
Couldn’t have been a sweeter love story, with a great couple as lead. The whole Stanislaskis family is an awesome experience in itself and they make great supporting characters. Sidney’s problematic mother further enriches the tale.
Another hit for Nora Roberts. Highly recommended for funs of pure romantic plots or you are looking for a light and pleasurable read. Enjoy it!
January 7, 2011
Oh Mik!!!! What a guy!!! I do love a guy that isn't afraid of anything and wears his loving heart on his sleeve!! I absolutly adored Mik, I loved before in Taming Natasha, but wow he is perfect!! I love how he doesn't care what people think and he basks in the love of family and friends, and how much he cares for everyone in his life!!Sydney was very interesting, I didn't like her very much at the beginning because she was cold and so perfect, but I could relate to her, so I understand. I love how under that tough exterior she was incredibly vulnerable, because of her failed marriage with Peter. I loved how she thought that it was her fault, that she wasn't good enough, or she was a failure in bed, that the marriage failed when it was just that they were like brother and sister. I totally understand where insecurites came from. I loved how against her wanting it to happen, Mik affected her, in her clothes and how she treated people. I loved when they went to visit Tash and her family, and Sydney took care of Katie, and Brandon asked them why they didn't have kids or something, and just how well she fit in with the family. I loved their love scenes because Mik is just so passionate that he brought it of Sydney. I was scared that Syndey was going to fall back to her old ways of letting her mother tell her what to do but I'm glad she didn't when she went to her apartment, or when she was forcing Channing on her. I loved how passionate Syndey was about the company and about the people, and how she got through everything. I love that Mik was an artist, yet so humble, and how he scuplted her and gave her the Cinderlla, explaing how she is like Cinderella, always following the rules. I loved Tash's fairy tale figurines. I loved how Syndey without wanting to, always worried about Mik's safety like when he came home hurt at the end with Alex. I loved the contrast between the ring Channing gave her, big, and out there, and Mik's simple and warm ring. I love how Mik didn't care about anything and proposed to her, and of course she got spooked, and then she came back after seeing that she wasn't a failure after seeing Peter, and she was ready for that life with him, and the family they had in them. I can't wait to see more of them in the next books!! Mik was just perfect, manly, sweet, romantic, everything!!I loved how Mik told her he wanted a life with her, babies with her, and how even after she told him no the first time, she still wore the ring around her neck.
December 22, 2017
3.5 stars
May 18, 2021
Review May 2021: 7 years later and Mikhail is still my fav. However this original cover is ATROCIOUS. It looks like there is a fire going on in the background behind them lol.
Review June 2014: Ok, Mikhail is my favorite brother (sorry Alex!). He's gorgeous but he gets all embarrassed when Sydney tells him that. He is a sculpture but he is a also a carpenter who replaces old banisters so kids and old ladies don't get hurt. And I love Sydney. She is a perfect companion for him and that scene in which she was changing little Katie and Mikhail's sisters and mother were listening on the baby monitor and falling in love with her is one of my favorite scenes from this series.
Review November 2012: Read this last night. Only bad thing is I read it after I finished #1 and the similarities in the plot were a bit more obvious then I think they would have if I had waited to read #2(two women scared to commit, both had had failed relationships before, etc). But still really good. I loved the depiction of Mikhail's apartment with all the people that knew and looked out for the other -I wanted to live there!
Review June 2014: Ok, Mikhail is my favorite brother (sorry Alex!). He's gorgeous but he gets all embarrassed when Sydney tells him that. He is a sculpture but he is a also a carpenter who replaces old banisters so kids and old ladies don't get hurt. And I love Sydney. She is a perfect companion for him and that scene in which she was changing little Katie and Mikhail's sisters and mother were listening on the baby monitor and falling in love with her is one of my favorite scenes from this series.
Review November 2012: Read this last night. Only bad thing is I read it after I finished #1 and the similarities in the plot were a bit more obvious then I think they would have if I had waited to read #2(two women scared to commit, both had had failed relationships before, etc). But still really good. I loved the depiction of Mikhail's apartment with all the people that knew and looked out for the other -I wanted to live there!
June 27, 2020
Reseña completa en mi blog: https://elsentirdeunlibro.blogspot.co...
October 30, 2021
Luring a Lady
4 Stars
After inheriting her grandfather's company, Sydney Hayward is determined to shed her "spoiled little rich girl" persona and live up to her responsibilities. So, when Mikhail Stanislaski, her stubborn yet sexy tenant, bursts into her office demanding she renovate his dilapidated building, Sydney takes on the challenge - both the building and the man...
This second book in the Stanislaski series continues the theme of heroes in pursuit of reluctant heroines. Sydney is not the easiest woman to like. Her seemingly cold faćade conceals profound loneliness and desire to be loved. She was badly hurt in the past and is wary of trusting again. Mikhail is a real charmer, and his unconditional love and acceptance of Sydney are heartwarming. Their opposites attract romance is delightful.
The scenes with Mikhail's close-knit family are utterly charming, and it is entertaining to catch up with Spencer and Natasha's HEA.
Christine Traister's narration is good. Her Ukrainian accent is much better on a male character than a female and adds to Mikhail's appeal.
Rachel's book is next and it will be interesting to see who her match is.
4 Stars
After inheriting her grandfather's company, Sydney Hayward is determined to shed her "spoiled little rich girl" persona and live up to her responsibilities. So, when Mikhail Stanislaski, her stubborn yet sexy tenant, bursts into her office demanding she renovate his dilapidated building, Sydney takes on the challenge - both the building and the man...
This second book in the Stanislaski series continues the theme of heroes in pursuit of reluctant heroines. Sydney is not the easiest woman to like. Her seemingly cold faćade conceals profound loneliness and desire to be loved. She was badly hurt in the past and is wary of trusting again. Mikhail is a real charmer, and his unconditional love and acceptance of Sydney are heartwarming. Their opposites attract romance is delightful.
The scenes with Mikhail's close-knit family are utterly charming, and it is entertaining to catch up with Spencer and Natasha's HEA.
Christine Traister's narration is good. Her Ukrainian accent is much better on a male character than a female and adds to Mikhail's appeal.
Rachel's book is next and it will be interesting to see who her match is.
December 23, 2023
Luring A Lady is book #2 in The Stanislaskis series of contemporary romances.
This is a quick read and is the story of Sydney, who has been left her grandfather's business and Mikhail an artist. They meet when Mikhail insists on delivering the grievances of the tenants in his apartment building to the building's owner. Sydney has been unaware of how badly things have been allowed to go and vows to make amends. It may not make her friends in the boardroom but her actions are appreciated by her tenants.
Set in New York, this is an opposites attract story. I liked the two main characters and the story was quick paced and enjoyable. I shall look out for more books in this series.
This is a quick read and is the story of Sydney, who has been left her grandfather's business and Mikhail an artist. They meet when Mikhail insists on delivering the grievances of the tenants in his apartment building to the building's owner. Sydney has been unaware of how badly things have been allowed to go and vows to make amends. It may not make her friends in the boardroom but her actions are appreciated by her tenants.
Set in New York, this is an opposites attract story. I liked the two main characters and the story was quick paced and enjoyable. I shall look out for more books in this series.
June 20, 2022
Vilken smörja
1. Redan från första sidan visste jag exakt vad som skulle hända. Boken är byggd på alla klyschiga romance-troper någonsin.
2. Den åldrades inte väl. Varför är Alex så äcklig mot alla kvinnor inklusive sin brorsas flickvän, wtf? Och denna enorma romantisering och exotifiering av den "invandrande europén" är inte fräsch.
3. Den är kasst skriven. Jag hånskrattade ett flertal gånger över scener som lät som ur en sketch. Känslorna skriva raaaaaakt på konstant vilken gör allt så tråkigt.
4. Författaren har valt det minst intressant berättarperspektivet. En allvetande berättare där fokalisatorn inte är karakärsbestämd. Läsaren för i alla scener höra "X blev rasande. Y kände sig sorgsen". Dessutom med nollgestalning får vi inte bara ta del av tex protagonistens känslor utan alla, utan någon form av gestaltning.
5. Klassperspektivet är så skevt. Dels är det så tröttsamt att läsa om "den kalla och själviska arbetande kvinnan och den varma manliga konstnären". Men sen är det oxå en så märklig bild av det Roberts menar är arbetarklass, även här en romantiserad och vill påstå till och med felaktig. Birollen marknadsförs genom boken som fattig arbetare som har haft ett "tufft liv" från den vinkeln. Även så introduceras karaktären, han bor i den nedgångna hyresrätten utan fungerande spisar osv, sen kommer det fram att han är en konstnär som hela överklassen vet om och att han även har sålt en staty till vita huset (!!!!) och att familjen har en städhjälp. Blir oerhört problematiskt och dessutom faller ju hela den har redan dåliga plotten platt??
Hoppas innerligt jag får chans att take this motherfucker down på min tenta, för annars gav den här lösningen mig bara sorg.
1. Redan från första sidan visste jag exakt vad som skulle hända. Boken är byggd på alla klyschiga romance-troper någonsin.
2. Den åldrades inte väl. Varför är Alex så äcklig mot alla kvinnor inklusive sin brorsas flickvän, wtf? Och denna enorma romantisering och exotifiering av den "invandrande europén" är inte fräsch.
3. Den är kasst skriven. Jag hånskrattade ett flertal gånger över scener som lät som ur en sketch. Känslorna skriva raaaaaakt på konstant vilken gör allt så tråkigt.
4. Författaren har valt det minst intressant berättarperspektivet. En allvetande berättare där fokalisatorn inte är karakärsbestämd. Läsaren för i alla scener höra "X blev rasande. Y kände sig sorgsen". Dessutom med nollgestalning får vi inte bara ta del av tex protagonistens känslor utan alla, utan någon form av gestaltning.
5. Klassperspektivet är så skevt. Dels är det så tröttsamt att läsa om "den kalla och själviska arbetande kvinnan och den varma manliga konstnären". Men sen är det oxå en så märklig bild av det Roberts menar är arbetarklass, även här en romantiserad och vill påstå till och med felaktig. Birollen marknadsförs genom boken som fattig arbetare som har haft ett "tufft liv" från den vinkeln. Även så introduceras karaktären, han bor i den nedgångna hyresrätten utan fungerande spisar osv, sen kommer det fram att han är en konstnär som hela överklassen vet om och att han även har sålt en staty till vita huset (!!!!) och att familjen har en städhjälp. Blir oerhört problematiskt och dessutom faller ju hela den har redan dåliga plotten platt??
Hoppas innerligt jag får chans att take this motherfucker down på min tenta, för annars gav den här lösningen mig bara sorg.
March 1, 2013
The second in the stories of the Stanislaski siblings, this one features Mikhail and Sydney, a debutant turned executive. And like its predecessor, it's another strong 90s Roberts novel. Like Spence in the first book, Mik is one of those masterful, commanding men. Unlike Spence, that sits much better with his character as a builder/sculptor/tenement spokesperson. Sydney, too, fits better than Tash as an uncertain woman finding her certainty as she is, in fact, in transition between the fashionable fribble she has been and the executive taking over her grandfather's company after his death. Their romance was fun to watch as they reinforce the best aspects of each other, making one of those synergistic relationships that I prefer.
I'm liking this series, for all it's not quite up to Roberts' later standards. I continue to enjoy the family dynamics of the Stanislaski's, though at least some of that is attributable to Roberts not bringing them in as deus ex familia. They're just normal folks with their quirks, idiosyncrasies, and love to see them through.
A note about Steamy: Pretty standard for a Roberts novel, though again, the scenes were shorter than usual. I think this may be a feature of being published under the Silhouette brand. The steam is steamy, mind, it just seems shortened.
I'm liking this series, for all it's not quite up to Roberts' later standards. I continue to enjoy the family dynamics of the Stanislaski's, though at least some of that is attributable to Roberts not bringing them in as deus ex familia. They're just normal folks with their quirks, idiosyncrasies, and love to see them through.
A note about Steamy: Pretty standard for a Roberts novel, though again, the scenes were shorter than usual. I think this may be a feature of being published under the Silhouette brand. The steam is steamy, mind, it just seems shortened.
December 22, 2017
This was gym reading for me. Something that doesn't take a lot of concentration. I think I got this one free at some point or another. I've read some Nora Roberts before (mostly her FBI stuff quite a few years ago) and I'm reading her most recent In Death book right now. I've just recently gotten into reading more romance, but I generally am into the historicals right now.
So, this one was very light reading. There wasn't a whole lot to it. The heroine was quite a bore and had issues because she let her mom talk her into marrying her best friend because of what a great match it was. Her marriage fell apart and she thinks it's all her fault and won't marry again because she'll wreck any marriage she has. When it comes to relationships, she's not the brightest crayon in the box. The book begins where she's taken over the family business. Up until now, she's spent her time traveling and playing hostess/wife and has never worked the business. Of course, she comes in immediately and is brilliant at it.
This book didn't have a whole lot going for it. The plot was extremely simple with not a lot of conflict.
So, this one was very light reading. There wasn't a whole lot to it. The heroine was quite a bore and had issues because she let her mom talk her into marrying her best friend because of what a great match it was. Her marriage fell apart and she thinks it's all her fault and won't marry again because she'll wreck any marriage she has. When it comes to relationships, she's not the brightest crayon in the box. The book begins where she's taken over the family business. Up until now, she's spent her time traveling and playing hostess/wife and has never worked the business. Of course, she comes in immediately and is brilliant at it.
This book didn't have a whole lot going for it. The plot was extremely simple with not a lot of conflict.
December 26, 2011
Rating 3.5
I liked this book even if the hero was pushy and over-bearing at times.
The heroine comes from a wealthy family and has always done as her family wanted but now for the first time she has responsibility of her grandfather's company and is nervous but learning and over the course of the book it was good to see her take control and become confident of her abilities as well as tell-off her mother.
The hero meets her when he comes to shout at her for being a bad tenant and somehow he sees that she isn't one and he pushes her into a relationship, shows her what love and family is but she is still scared about things going wrong as it did with her marriage with her best friend, and I liked her working things out and coming to realize some truths.
I have also noticed one things in NR books, the heroes always seem to fall first and have to make the heroines accept things.
I liked this book even if the hero was pushy and over-bearing at times.
The heroine comes from a wealthy family and has always done as her family wanted but now for the first time she has responsibility of her grandfather's company and is nervous but learning and over the course of the book it was good to see her take control and become confident of her abilities as well as tell-off her mother.
The hero meets her when he comes to shout at her for being a bad tenant and somehow he sees that she isn't one and he pushes her into a relationship, shows her what love and family is but she is still scared about things going wrong as it did with her marriage with her best friend, and I liked her working things out and coming to realize some truths.
I have also noticed one things in NR books, the heroes always seem to fall first and have to make the heroines accept things.
March 5, 2015
I have always considered myself as a fan of Nora Roberts. I especially liked her romantic suspense and the way she creates her characters.
Luring a Lady is one of her early books and I have to admit that I generally prefer her later ones. Her category romances are too short to properly develop the plot and characters. Some of them are also too old school to my taste.
However, I was positively surprised by Luring a Lady. Even though, it's a bit too short, I really liked the characters. The plot was also interesting enough to grab my attention. I really enjoyed the way Roberts created the difficult relation between Sydney and her mother.
I wish the story was made into a longer book, not a short category romance. It was still a nice read.
Luring a Lady is one of her early books and I have to admit that I generally prefer her later ones. Her category romances are too short to properly develop the plot and characters. Some of them are also too old school to my taste.
However, I was positively surprised by Luring a Lady. Even though, it's a bit too short, I really liked the characters. The plot was also interesting enough to grab my attention. I really enjoyed the way Roberts created the difficult relation between Sydney and her mother.
I wish the story was made into a longer book, not a short category romance. It was still a nice read.
November 17, 2009
Couldn't put it down....again you can't wait to read the next sibling. :)
July 6, 2023
i liked this book better than the first one. mikhail was still stubborn and hot headed like his sister. i liked this fmc more too. she was smarter at times and i admired her for what she did with her company.
March 16, 2017
Fun book!
July 1, 2018
Добра книга, хареса ми. Беше леко четиво, от което определено се нуждаех след прочита на две големи фентъзи книги. Не е някакъв велик шедьовър, но пък става.
March 12, 2016
Este libro me ha gustado muuuucho más que el primero. El libro de Natasha sí que es verdad que me gustó pero la actitud de ella se me hizo un poco repetitiva y creo que fue eso lo que me llevó a darle 3 estrellas en vez de 4.
Pero con Negocios y Placer... madre mía! Sabía que Mikhail me iba a gustar mucho pero dios, no estaba preparada para leer a un hombre así. Es todo lo que últimamente me es incapaz de encontrar en los libros que leo: amable, bueno, simpático, no es grosero ni rudo ni borde con la protagonista así porque así, real, auténtico... Y lo mejor de todo: Tiene un "pasado oscuro" y no deja que esto domine su vida. No deja que solo porque tuvo que escapar de Ucrania con sus padres con solo 6 años y pasara toda esas cosas horribles, lo atormente. Vive con ello y es feliz. Desde hace mucho tiene su vida en América y punto. También me gusta lo cariñoso, tierno y dulce que es y la verdad es que no me esperaba que Mikhail fuera así de atento. Otra cosa es que no tiene miedo a amar, como muchos otros protagonistas y eso, lo siento, pero es que me mata, no lo soporto y lo odio, que vayan con su escusa de que han sufrido en su vida y por eso no puede amar ug!
La primera impresión que tuve de Sydney fue mala, para qué voy a engañar. Al principio vemos que es una persona fría, controladora y segura. Pero luego vemos que la cosa no es así, sino que es todo lo contrario: es una persona con sus inseguridades y que está harta que las personas que están a su alrededor dicten lo que tiene o no tiene que hacer con su vida. Su personaje me ha gustado mucho y en algunos aspectos me he identificado con ella.
Otro punto a favor es que, si hay que me encanta es una historia de amor bonita y dulce y para mí este libro lo tiene, por lo menos para mí. Sí es verdad que todo pasa bastante rápido en el tema de la relación y el amor, pero obviando eso la historia me tenía enganchada y suspirando por los protagonistas. Eso sí, Mikhail tiene algunos comentarios que vaya...
Así que por eso le doy 4'5 estrellas!
Pero con Negocios y Placer... madre mía! Sabía que Mikhail me iba a gustar mucho pero dios, no estaba preparada para leer a un hombre así. Es todo lo que últimamente me es incapaz de encontrar en los libros que leo: amable, bueno, simpático, no es grosero ni rudo ni borde con la protagonista así porque así, real, auténtico... Y lo mejor de todo: Tiene un "pasado oscuro" y no deja que esto domine su vida. No deja que solo porque tuvo que escapar de Ucrania con sus padres con solo 6 años y pasara toda esas cosas horribles, lo atormente. Vive con ello y es feliz. Desde hace mucho tiene su vida en América y punto. También me gusta lo cariñoso, tierno y dulce que es y la verdad es que no me esperaba que Mikhail fuera así de atento. Otra cosa es que no tiene miedo a amar, como muchos otros protagonistas y eso, lo siento, pero es que me mata, no lo soporto y lo odio, que vayan con su escusa de que han sufrido en su vida y por eso no puede amar ug!
La primera impresión que tuve de Sydney fue mala, para qué voy a engañar. Al principio vemos que es una persona fría, controladora y segura. Pero luego vemos que la cosa no es así, sino que es todo lo contrario: es una persona con sus inseguridades y que está harta que las personas que están a su alrededor dicten lo que tiene o no tiene que hacer con su vida. Su personaje me ha gustado mucho y en algunos aspectos me he identificado con ella.
Otro punto a favor es que, si hay que me encanta es una historia de amor bonita y dulce y para mí este libro lo tiene, por lo menos para mí. Sí es verdad que todo pasa bastante rápido en el tema de la relación y el amor, pero obviando eso la historia me tenía enganchada y suspirando por los protagonistas. Eso sí, Mikhail tiene algunos comentarios que vaya...
Así que por eso le doy 4'5 estrellas!
August 3, 2020
This was, I think, one of the first romance novels I ever read, and rereading it makes me grateful all over again that Nora Roberts was my entree into the genre, because while there are some things that are definitely Of Their Time about her earlier works — the pushy alpha heroes, the unexamined exoticism of non-WASP characters (in this case, the Ukrainian Stanislaskis are often referred to as sexy gypsies) — there are also these personally influential and sometimes tremendously progressive ideas baked straight into the plot: that women are capable of and entitled to a successful, fulfilling career; that women supporting other women is beautiful and necessary; that marriage is a partnership of equals and if it becomes something other than that, there’s no shame in cutting the cord. Sydney (along with Sybill from Inner Harbor, predictably) was one of my favorite Roberts heroines when I was younger because she’s struggling so much — to take control of her own company, to get her mother to see her as an independent person, to overcome the trauma of her failed marriage — but she comes out on top, with a bonus sexy sculptor husband who thinks she’s the best thing since sliced bread. It’s only as I reread the book that I appreciate how great it is that Roberts portrayed Mikhail as, yes, this pushy asshole who thinks he always knows best — but also as a man who is willing to be open and vulnerable. The climax of the novel is not, as with most alpha-hero narratives, Mikhail coming to grovel. The climax is that Sydney comes to apologize to him because she realizes she has really hurt him: he lets her (and the whole world, really) see that she has the ability to hurt him. It’s a beautiful scene that I’ve come back to many times in my life, and I expect I will do so again.
ETA: I've finished maybe five books in all of quarantine, but this was one of them. A deeply reassuring reread.
ETA: I've finished maybe five books in all of quarantine, but this was one of them. A deeply reassuring reread.
May 17, 2016
Luring a Lady is the second book in the Stanislaski series. I reviewed Taming Natasha last week and decided to start this one right away. Much to my dismay, I couldn't even finish this book. While I liked Mikhail, I couldn't stand Sydney. I really just couldn't stomach reading about another woman who thought she was frigid and was the reason her marriage failed. Lady, he cheated on you because he was a douchebag and that is all. I was liking the story until the scene in the limo when Sydney is saying that Mik displayed disgusting behavior toward her mother at the dinner party. Ok first, eww, and second he kissed her hand only. But Sydney, who made out with a guy to get back at Mik, was totally innocent? Then less than a minute later she is practically mauling Mik in the car and begging him to "take her". Nope, can't do it.
I'm not sure if I will continue with this series. While I liked Taming Natasha, it took I me a while to warm to Natasha. I didn't see me ever warming to Sydney. I need a book where I can like the characters.
I'm not sure if I will continue with this series. While I liked Taming Natasha, it took I me a while to warm to Natasha. I didn't see me ever warming to Sydney. I need a book where I can like the characters.
June 6, 2017
I liked this book much more than its predecessor.
It was more thorough in detail and the characters were much more interesting, and seemed more interested in each other.
Mikhail is passionate and certain about what he wants, whereas Sydney is uneasy and lacks confidence in herself, but feels strongly for Mikhail. Many moments of clashing personalities in this one. I really enjoyed it.
It was more thorough in detail and the characters were much more interesting, and seemed more interested in each other.
Mikhail is passionate and certain about what he wants, whereas Sydney is uneasy and lacks confidence in herself, but feels strongly for Mikhail. Many moments of clashing personalities in this one. I really enjoyed it.
July 21, 2017
Am dat-o gata in cateva ore. Amuzanta, relaxanta, potrivita pentru sezonul estival
December 2, 2019
(Bücherflohmarkt)
Ich kann nur sagen: Nora forever 😍
Ich kann nur sagen: Nora forever 😍
May 16, 2021
4,25 ⭐️
March 13, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Es que es casi tan buena como la primera,me fascinan estas historias que se van entrelazando.
Es que es casi tan buena como la primera,me fascinan estas historias que se van entrelazando.
March 31, 2017
Mikhail Stanislaski, size kesinlikle aşık olabilirim ❤
November 25, 2015
Author: Nora Roberts
First published: 1991
Length: ~2900 kindle locations
Setting: Contemporary. New York.
Sex: Explicit. Infrequent.
Hero: Ukrainian carpenter and Artist.
Heroine: Debutante turned president of grandfather’s company.
Awww. That was so sweet. Light and romantic with such a gorgeous Hero. One of the strong Alpha types who loves his woman unconditionally and supports her to achieve everything she wants. And a strong heroine who needs to be loved and is willing to embrace a life with him.
Maybe my enjoyment of the book was increased because I'd read a series of books with crappy dominating relationships and hero who nod towards supporting their partners but in reality want them doing only what they tell them. Mikhail is refreshing and Sydney backs herself. The plot is straightforward and pure romance demonstrating the character growth of Sydney as she learns to love herself, and Mikhail.
Beautiful.
The Stanislakis:
Book 1 Taming Natasha - Natasha Stanislaski and Spence Kimball
Book 2 Luring A Lady - Sydney Hayward and Mikhail Stanislaski
Book 3 Falling for Rachel - Zackary Muldoon and Rachel Stanislaki
Book 4 Convincing Alex - Bess McNee and Alex Stanislaski
Book 5 Waiting For Nick - Frederica Kimball and Nicholas LeBeck
Book 6 Considering Kate - Kate Stanislaski Kimball and Brody O'Connell
References:
Author's website: http://noraroberts.com/1991/12/luring...
(read in Chasing Hope ISBN 9781760376871)
-CR-
First published: 1991
Length: ~2900 kindle locations
Setting: Contemporary. New York.
Sex: Explicit. Infrequent.
Hero: Ukrainian carpenter and Artist.
Heroine: Debutante turned president of grandfather’s company.
Awww. That was so sweet. Light and romantic with such a gorgeous Hero. One of the strong Alpha types who loves his woman unconditionally and supports her to achieve everything she wants. And a strong heroine who needs to be loved and is willing to embrace a life with him.
Maybe my enjoyment of the book was increased because I'd read a series of books with crappy dominating relationships and hero who nod towards supporting their partners but in reality want them doing only what they tell them. Mikhail is refreshing and Sydney backs herself. The plot is straightforward and pure romance demonstrating the character growth of Sydney as she learns to love herself, and Mikhail.
Beautiful.
The Stanislakis:
Book 1 Taming Natasha - Natasha Stanislaski and Spence Kimball
Book 2 Luring A Lady - Sydney Hayward and Mikhail Stanislaski
Book 3 Falling for Rachel - Zackary Muldoon and Rachel Stanislaki
Book 4 Convincing Alex - Bess McNee and Alex Stanislaski
Book 5 Waiting For Nick - Frederica Kimball and Nicholas LeBeck
Book 6 Considering Kate - Kate Stanislaski Kimball and Brody O'Connell
References:
Author's website: http://noraroberts.com/1991/12/luring...
(read in Chasing Hope ISBN 9781760376871)
-CR-
August 23, 2014
Luring a Lady is Book two in the Stanislaski series by Nora Roberts. As with all of her books, the plot is well thought out and written and the characters are well developed. It is a really good book although it was a little slow in places. I love all of Nora Roberts’ books.
Sydney Hayward has taken her place as head of Hayward Industries. She is shakily making headway and her place in the company. She is taking her job seriously while others think she is just playing at taking a job. She is impatiently waiting for a representative from another company to come and talk about a job when Mikhail Stanislaski comes in. He is here on the behalf of the residents of a building her grandfather had owned for neighborhood. The building is in dire need of renovation and he is determined to see that it gets done. At his instigation, she goes to the building and gets a first-hand view of what needs to be done and immediately, she hires Mik to do the job. Her executive assistant Lloyd is totally against it and she questions his loyalty to her. She realizes he was an enemy and a very dangerous one.
Meanwhile, Mik has started on the building instead of working on his art collection. He is managing to get all the work completed on time and under-budget and with as little disruption to the tenants as possible. When Mrs. Wolburg falls and hurts her hip, Mik and Sydney find her and get her to the hospital. Sydney tells the hospital that her company would take care of the bills. Someway the news got to the news media and they are relentless. The Board asks to meet to talk about her misadventures so soon.
What is the attraction between Sydney and Mik? Can it be a permanent one? What will happen to Mrs. Wolburg? Will the Board find ii impressed with Sidney? How will his family accept her in their home?
Sydney Hayward has taken her place as head of Hayward Industries. She is shakily making headway and her place in the company. She is taking her job seriously while others think she is just playing at taking a job. She is impatiently waiting for a representative from another company to come and talk about a job when Mikhail Stanislaski comes in. He is here on the behalf of the residents of a building her grandfather had owned for neighborhood. The building is in dire need of renovation and he is determined to see that it gets done. At his instigation, she goes to the building and gets a first-hand view of what needs to be done and immediately, she hires Mik to do the job. Her executive assistant Lloyd is totally against it and she questions his loyalty to her. She realizes he was an enemy and a very dangerous one.
Meanwhile, Mik has started on the building instead of working on his art collection. He is managing to get all the work completed on time and under-budget and with as little disruption to the tenants as possible. When Mrs. Wolburg falls and hurts her hip, Mik and Sydney find her and get her to the hospital. Sydney tells the hospital that her company would take care of the bills. Someway the news got to the news media and they are relentless. The Board asks to meet to talk about her misadventures so soon.
What is the attraction between Sydney and Mik? Can it be a permanent one? What will happen to Mrs. Wolburg? Will the Board find ii impressed with Sidney? How will his family accept her in their home?
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