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Gothic Love Stories #3
Too Tempting to Resist
From a New York Times and USA Today bestselling When a new heir inherits the castle, poor relation Miss Rebecca Bond must wed immediately or be out on her ear. The only man she ever loved is summoned to hear the will—but their past ended so badly that they haven’t spoken in years. Yet who better than a heartless rake to teach her how to snare a gentleman who appreciates her charms?Daniel Godwin, Lord Stonebury, regrets nothing more than losing the one woman who treated him like a man, not a title. Fate has given him the perfect pretext to win her trust—even if it means watching her wed someone else. But now that she's back in his life, he’ll do anything to convince her to choose him instead... Gothic Love Stories A prior edition was published as Romancing the Rogue.
160 pages, Paperback
First published March 21, 2017
About the author
Erica Ridley
142 books2,217 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 126 reviews
August 14, 2019
Faced with having to snare a husband, Rebecca turns to one of the ton’s greatest rakes, Lord Stonebury. Years before they shared something special, but that was before he shattered her heart. But who better to teach her the ways of romantic entrapment? Little did she know, she could get caught up in her own snare...
Erica Ridley’s TOO TEMPTING TO RESIST is a short, but delightfully quirky romance with a feisty heroine and a hero that never saw what hit him! Moments of humor, light-heartedness and even some sorrow, but most of all, this fun read is filled with love and a sweet romance.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from WebMotion! this is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Gothic Love Stories - Book 3
Publisher: WebMotion; 2 edition (August 16, 2019)
Publication Date: August 16, 2019
Genre: Historical Romance
Print Length: 109 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Erica Ridley’s TOO TEMPTING TO RESIST is a short, but delightfully quirky romance with a feisty heroine and a hero that never saw what hit him! Moments of humor, light-heartedness and even some sorrow, but most of all, this fun read is filled with love and a sweet romance.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from WebMotion! this is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Gothic Love Stories - Book 3
Publisher: WebMotion; 2 edition (August 16, 2019)
Publication Date: August 16, 2019
Genre: Historical Romance
Print Length: 109 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 13, 2019
Rebecca is content with her life as the invisible relative in a lonely castle. When the new heir threatens to throw her out, she has to turn to an unlikely ally - the man who broke her heart and drove her into hiding - Lord Stonebury.
I received a free copy of the Gothic Love Stories box-set from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
After having her heart publicly broken by Lord Stonebury, Rebecca had to leave society. Before she could return, her parents died, leaving her alone and forgotten. Even the people within the castle think she's a ghost.
Rather than be upset by this outcome, Rebecca embraces the freedom this gives her. She develops her own sense of independence, and finds challenges for her intellect in running the accounts and designing devilish mazes.
When her relative dies and the new heir takes over, this freedom is quickly lost. She has to leave her haven, by way of marriage, as that is all women are good for.
Daniel's biggest regret was losing the only girl he's ever loved. When he gets a notice about a will-reading for the old owner of Rebecca's castle, he jumps at the chance to finally make amends, even if it means seeing her married to another man.
Wow, that book was shorter than I anticipated - I was not expecting a novella.
It's great to see that Ridley's writing is back on form, after the confusing Too Sinful to Deny (book 2). Even though this is a small story, it was so easy to get pulled in and enjoy every moment.
It is simple, straight-forward, not particularly gothic, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Rebecca is a great character. She approaches everything with logic, and knows that her best chance of a successful future is to find a man that will allow her the freedom to work, or help with the estate and keep her mind active.
Daniel is more perfect than she can know. For the last few years, society's gossip columns have loved this charming bachelor, who is never seen with the same woman twice. But the truth is much sweeter, and much more appealing - Daniel is engrossed in matters that have arisen in the House of Lords, and he is passionate about doing his part for his country.
The story wrapped up very quickly. With it only being a novella, there were no side plots, just the satisfactory reunion of these two old friends.
I received a free copy of the Gothic Love Stories box-set from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
After having her heart publicly broken by Lord Stonebury, Rebecca had to leave society. Before she could return, her parents died, leaving her alone and forgotten. Even the people within the castle think she's a ghost.
Rather than be upset by this outcome, Rebecca embraces the freedom this gives her. She develops her own sense of independence, and finds challenges for her intellect in running the accounts and designing devilish mazes.
When her relative dies and the new heir takes over, this freedom is quickly lost. She has to leave her haven, by way of marriage, as that is all women are good for.
Daniel's biggest regret was losing the only girl he's ever loved. When he gets a notice about a will-reading for the old owner of Rebecca's castle, he jumps at the chance to finally make amends, even if it means seeing her married to another man.
Wow, that book was shorter than I anticipated - I was not expecting a novella.
It's great to see that Ridley's writing is back on form, after the confusing Too Sinful to Deny (book 2). Even though this is a small story, it was so easy to get pulled in and enjoy every moment.
It is simple, straight-forward, not particularly gothic, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Rebecca is a great character. She approaches everything with logic, and knows that her best chance of a successful future is to find a man that will allow her the freedom to work, or help with the estate and keep her mind active.
Daniel is more perfect than she can know. For the last few years, society's gossip columns have loved this charming bachelor, who is never seen with the same woman twice. But the truth is much sweeter, and much more appealing - Daniel is engrossed in matters that have arisen in the House of Lords, and he is passionate about doing his part for his country.
The story wrapped up very quickly. With it only being a novella, there were no side plots, just the satisfactory reunion of these two old friends.
August 10, 2019
Too Tempting to Resist is the third book in the Gothic Love Stories series by Erica Ridley. Although apart or a series it can easily be read as a stand-alone book.
Rebecca Bond has lived an invisible life in her great Uncle's castle since her parents passed away. So invisible that she has some of the staff believing there are ghosts. When he dies and the new heir takes possession of the estate Rebecca's invisibility stops. Her uncle has a large family of his own and tells Rebecca that she needs to marry because he can't take her on. She is horrified, she doesn't want to marry, she would rather have an independent life. But she realises that can't be and resigns herself to finding a country gentleman.
Daniel Godwin, Lord Stonebury has been instructed to attend Rebecca's uncle's house for the reading of the will. Something has been left for him. He doesn't need the money but he does need the excuse to visit because he wants to see Rebecca again. They knew each other when they were younger and they even shared a kiss. Circumstances kept them apart. Now he wants to make amends and be friends with her. Can he earn her forgiveness, she believes there may be a way, he has to help her find a husband!
What follows is a fast-paced story that was quite funny in parts, especially when the staff believed her actions were that of a ghost. It had its sad moments but on the whole, despite being a gothic romance, it was a feel-good story with a happy ending. Do our couple end up renewing their relationship, or perhaps Daniel finds Rebecca a loving husband. You will have to read the book to find out for yourself. I was left with some questions which could have been answered if the story was that little bit longer. Apart from that, it was a perfect book.
Rebecca Bond has lived an invisible life in her great Uncle's castle since her parents passed away. So invisible that she has some of the staff believing there are ghosts. When he dies and the new heir takes possession of the estate Rebecca's invisibility stops. Her uncle has a large family of his own and tells Rebecca that she needs to marry because he can't take her on. She is horrified, she doesn't want to marry, she would rather have an independent life. But she realises that can't be and resigns herself to finding a country gentleman.
Daniel Godwin, Lord Stonebury has been instructed to attend Rebecca's uncle's house for the reading of the will. Something has been left for him. He doesn't need the money but he does need the excuse to visit because he wants to see Rebecca again. They knew each other when they were younger and they even shared a kiss. Circumstances kept them apart. Now he wants to make amends and be friends with her. Can he earn her forgiveness, she believes there may be a way, he has to help her find a husband!
What follows is a fast-paced story that was quite funny in parts, especially when the staff believed her actions were that of a ghost. It had its sad moments but on the whole, despite being a gothic romance, it was a feel-good story with a happy ending. Do our couple end up renewing their relationship, or perhaps Daniel finds Rebecca a loving husband. You will have to read the book to find out for yourself. I was left with some questions which could have been answered if the story was that little bit longer. Apart from that, it was a perfect book.
August 17, 2019
Crowmere Castle, England 1811
A story of a young lady who had been left on her own for so long, she truly did not want to get back into society. Having lived with her great uncle for years after the death of her parents, Rebecca had managed to almost "disappear" and even keep his books and stay secluded. But when her great uncle died and left her nothing, the new Earl wanted to marry her off.
Daniel, Lord Stanbury, had know Rebecca years ago when he had spent time at Crowmere Castle and they had become friends. But he knew he had hurt her badly and had not forgiven his grandmother for her part. But he received a summons back to hear the reading of the will and was determined to show Rebecca that he was a different person than back then. Because he had not forgotten her through the years.
When they meet again as he comes to hear the will, she truly gives him the cold shoulder, although she needs his help to ensnare a husband since she is losing her home. What? Well he desires her coldness due to how he had treated her and he would help.
Loved these two characters! Their interactions and feelings for each other that simmered under the surface. A sweet, special romance that will make you believe in the power of love!
A story of a young lady who had been left on her own for so long, she truly did not want to get back into society. Having lived with her great uncle for years after the death of her parents, Rebecca had managed to almost "disappear" and even keep his books and stay secluded. But when her great uncle died and left her nothing, the new Earl wanted to marry her off.
Daniel, Lord Stanbury, had know Rebecca years ago when he had spent time at Crowmere Castle and they had become friends. But he knew he had hurt her badly and had not forgiven his grandmother for her part. But he received a summons back to hear the reading of the will and was determined to show Rebecca that he was a different person than back then. Because he had not forgotten her through the years.
When they meet again as he comes to hear the will, she truly gives him the cold shoulder, although she needs his help to ensnare a husband since she is losing her home. What? Well he desires her coldness due to how he had treated her and he would help.
Loved these two characters! Their interactions and feelings for each other that simmered under the surface. A sweet, special romance that will make you believe in the power of love!
August 23, 2019
Miss Rebecca Bond has been content living in quiet anonymity in the [supposedly haunted] castle of her great uncle, an earl, but when he dies, she's left with few options. As a poor relation Rebecca is wholly dependent on the new earl's whims and he determines she must wed immediately or be turned out completely. When the only man she's ever loved arrives for the reading of the will, Rebecca decides he's her best option to teach her how to find a gentleman to marry, despite the fact that their last meeting was a disaster and they haven't spoken in the years since.
Daniel Godwin, Viscount Stoneberry, has always regretted the loss of Rebecca, his one true friend who saw him for himself and not his title. Now that he has a second chance, he will do all he can to win her trust, even guide her into another's arms, though he'll do his best to see she picks him instead.
This was a quick, sweet second chance story about learning where your priorities lie and I enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Daniel Godwin, Viscount Stoneberry, has always regretted the loss of Rebecca, his one true friend who saw him for himself and not his title. Now that he has a second chance, he will do all he can to win her trust, even guide her into another's arms, though he'll do his best to see she picks him instead.
This was a quick, sweet second chance story about learning where your priorities lie and I enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 24, 2019
Can a rake beg forgiveness for the pain he caused to his childhood friend and help her secure a groom.
I really loved this one book, I find all that is Mrs Erica Ridley touch here.
Despite the shortness of this story, the author brought her main characters to life, their flaws, talents and past shaped them in very fleshy paper heroes.
In their year apart, Rebecca improved herself, by drowning out her loneliness with plenty of tasks, she taught herself and moved in whole new woman.
She is clever, resourceful and very witty.
Her dialogues with Daniel clashed like a tennis game with her carrying the play.
Daniel has years of regrets behind him, when Rebecca had to forge a new path for herself, he merely had just to follow the road already all mapped out for him.
So when an opportunity arisen, he decided it was time he makes amends.
But Rebecca is no more the young girl he left behind, she is a woman now, able to speak for herself and whom won’t bent because he is male and nobility.
A 5 stars for this short pages turn great tale.
I was granted an advance copy by the author, I also previously preordered my own copy.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
I really loved this one book, I find all that is Mrs Erica Ridley touch here.
Despite the shortness of this story, the author brought her main characters to life, their flaws, talents and past shaped them in very fleshy paper heroes.
In their year apart, Rebecca improved herself, by drowning out her loneliness with plenty of tasks, she taught herself and moved in whole new woman.
She is clever, resourceful and very witty.
Her dialogues with Daniel clashed like a tennis game with her carrying the play.
Daniel has years of regrets behind him, when Rebecca had to forge a new path for herself, he merely had just to follow the road already all mapped out for him.
So when an opportunity arisen, he decided it was time he makes amends.
But Rebecca is no more the young girl he left behind, she is a woman now, able to speak for herself and whom won’t bent because he is male and nobility.
A 5 stars for this short pages turn great tale.
I was granted an advance copy by the author, I also previously preordered my own copy.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
July 27, 2020
Short and sweet romance. It is exactly what you expect from a Gothic Love Story.
November 2, 2021
DNF'd 44% in. I'm done with Erica Ridley, I think. I've read 13 of her books, and I've scored them 3.07 on average; these are a waste of my time. This one was so implausible and shoddily set up that it felt like I was reading the spark notes or an author's outline for a book.
The h has been "forgotten" in a castle for like five years or so--there are multiple lines that mention she has gone months without having a conversation with another person, including the servants. She sneaks food out of the kitchen, and everyone blames it on ghosts. Yet she runs into a servant at one point and knows her by name, and the servant doesn't freak out and shriek, "WHO DIS??"
The H...didn't...ask her to dance or something like nine years ago? And it...made the h unpopular or something so she had to go hide in this castle? Unclear. Then almost a decade later they get reunited, and he's all "I'm so sorry about that!" As if he couldn't idk write a letter at any point...
Then h is all "teach me to bag a man!" and H is like ???? But she's all prickly and doesn't specify what she wants him to teach her? Cool cool cool. Totally reasonable and easy to follow. Will def work out.
Romance tropes: second chance, orphan
The h has been "forgotten" in a castle for like five years or so--there are multiple lines that mention she has gone months without having a conversation with another person, including the servants. She sneaks food out of the kitchen, and everyone blames it on ghosts. Yet she runs into a servant at one point and knows her by name, and the servant doesn't freak out and shriek, "WHO DIS??"
The H...didn't...ask her to dance or something like nine years ago? And it...made the h unpopular or something so she had to go hide in this castle? Unclear. Then almost a decade later they get reunited, and he's all "I'm so sorry about that!" As if he couldn't idk write a letter at any point...
Then h is all "teach me to bag a man!" and H is like ???? But she's all prickly and doesn't specify what she wants him to teach her? Cool cool cool. Totally reasonable and easy to follow. Will def work out.
Romance tropes: second chance, orphan
August 13, 2019
Too Tempting to Resist by Erica Ridley
Gothic Romances #3
This quick read of novella length sees Miss Rebecca Bond being suddenly without a home after five years living in a haunted castle. With the title passing to someone else she is told by that she will have to marry by the end of the season. Her wish is to take her dowry and live alone but that is not an option. A childhood friend will be coming for the reading of the will and she hopes to learn a bit more about flirtation in hopes that it will assist her in finding a docile complacent husband who will leave her to herself.
This is a story of two childhood friends who grew up and away from one another. Their feelings remain strong but the distance between them is great due to the Viscount status of Daniel and the penniless and title-less station of Rebecca. After nearly a decade apart they find there is still chemistry and caring between them BUT is there a way for them to bridge the gap between their status? I enjoyed both characters and their story was fun to read. Thank you to the author. This is my honest review.
4 Stars
Gothic Romances #3
This quick read of novella length sees Miss Rebecca Bond being suddenly without a home after five years living in a haunted castle. With the title passing to someone else she is told by that she will have to marry by the end of the season. Her wish is to take her dowry and live alone but that is not an option. A childhood friend will be coming for the reading of the will and she hopes to learn a bit more about flirtation in hopes that it will assist her in finding a docile complacent husband who will leave her to herself.
This is a story of two childhood friends who grew up and away from one another. Their feelings remain strong but the distance between them is great due to the Viscount status of Daniel and the penniless and title-less station of Rebecca. After nearly a decade apart they find there is still chemistry and caring between them BUT is there a way for them to bridge the gap between their status? I enjoyed both characters and their story was fun to read. Thank you to the author. This is my honest review.
4 Stars
August 16, 2019
This is a wonderful story of second chances. There is plenty of humor and some scenes that make you shed some tears. The character development is great despite the fact that this is 'only' a novella. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 29, 2020
I read this under the title of Romancing the Rogue.
On the coast of Cornwall, there is the reportedly haunted castle Keyvnor, and the lord of the castle has just passed from old age. His long-forgotten orphaned great niece Rebecca Bond still lives in the castle, and finds she hasn’t been included in the Will. And the new heir can’t afford the upkeep of another woman with his wife and daughters to look after. So, he offers her a small dowry, but she needs to be married within the season. So, she decides to enlist her old friend Daniel Viscount of North-Barrows since he is supposedly popular womanizer, so he should have plenty of experience in the romance department and will be able to help her catch a husband. Daniel has never forgotten his childhood crush on Rebecca, and has ranked every lady he has met against her and found London society to be lacking. But his renown aunt had deemed Rebecca to be improper and encouraged to break it off with Rebecca when they were just teenagers. Daniel jumps at Rebecca’s invitation, even if it means helping her to win someone else’s heart, if he can just get her to forgive him.
While this is far more wholesome and tamer than quite a few of the bodice rippers on the market these days, there is still plenty of innocent romance within this novella-sized story. There is plenty of chemistry between Daniel who has to swallow his pride and make amends as he realizes just how deeply he ruined Rebecca in the past, and convince her that even though the society papers say he is, he actually isn’t a womanizer, and Rebecca the strong woman who doesn’t really fit into Regency London society with her love of accounting and architecture and baking. I did wish this book were a bit longer since I wanted to see how her spending time in London would have been with Daniel having to return to the House of Lords. There are plenty of romantic moments as Daniel reminisces of the past with Rebecca, as she tries to impress him, show him everything to love about the castle and surrounding area. And there’s humor as she rebuffs him and he has to rethink his tactics. And I would have loved seeing someone stand up to his aunt. Though this is listed as a Gothic, the only ghost in this was Rebecca herself as she snuck around to help with chores and the accounting (there weren’t any other unaccountable instances), so the book really didn’t have the haunted eerie air that I want from gothics (unless you count the appearance of the castle itself).
On the coast of Cornwall, there is the reportedly haunted castle Keyvnor, and the lord of the castle has just passed from old age. His long-forgotten orphaned great niece Rebecca Bond still lives in the castle, and finds she hasn’t been included in the Will. And the new heir can’t afford the upkeep of another woman with his wife and daughters to look after. So, he offers her a small dowry, but she needs to be married within the season. So, she decides to enlist her old friend Daniel Viscount of North-Barrows since he is supposedly popular womanizer, so he should have plenty of experience in the romance department and will be able to help her catch a husband. Daniel has never forgotten his childhood crush on Rebecca, and has ranked every lady he has met against her and found London society to be lacking. But his renown aunt had deemed Rebecca to be improper and encouraged to break it off with Rebecca when they were just teenagers. Daniel jumps at Rebecca’s invitation, even if it means helping her to win someone else’s heart, if he can just get her to forgive him.
While this is far more wholesome and tamer than quite a few of the bodice rippers on the market these days, there is still plenty of innocent romance within this novella-sized story. There is plenty of chemistry between Daniel who has to swallow his pride and make amends as he realizes just how deeply he ruined Rebecca in the past, and convince her that even though the society papers say he is, he actually isn’t a womanizer, and Rebecca the strong woman who doesn’t really fit into Regency London society with her love of accounting and architecture and baking. I did wish this book were a bit longer since I wanted to see how her spending time in London would have been with Daniel having to return to the House of Lords. There are plenty of romantic moments as Daniel reminisces of the past with Rebecca, as she tries to impress him, show him everything to love about the castle and surrounding area. And there’s humor as she rebuffs him and he has to rethink his tactics. And I would have loved seeing someone stand up to his aunt. Though this is listed as a Gothic, the only ghost in this was Rebecca herself as she snuck around to help with chores and the accounting (there weren’t any other unaccountable instances), so the book really didn’t have the haunted eerie air that I want from gothics (unless you count the appearance of the castle itself).
August 12, 2019
When a new heir inherits the castle, poor relation Miss Rebecca Bond must wed immediately or either be out on her ear or have a husband found for her. The only man she ever loved is summoned to hear the will—but their past ended so badly that they haven’t spoken in years.
Daniel Godwin, Lord Stonebury, regrets nothing more than losing the one woman who treated him like a man, not a title. Fate has given him the perfect pretext to win her trust & now that she's back in his life, he’ll do anything to convince her to choose him .
I originally read this story in the Vexed anthology, it’s an enjoyable story that I read in one session both Daniel & Rebecca are still attracted to each other, in fact Rebecca has always loved Daniel. It’s a story of second chances & realising to do what you want rather than what a relative prescribes. Daniel is very sweet to give Rebecca the chance to choose her way forward, I did want to shake him at times for his dithering but he got there in the end
Daniel Godwin, Lord Stonebury, regrets nothing more than losing the one woman who treated him like a man, not a title. Fate has given him the perfect pretext to win her trust & now that she's back in his life, he’ll do anything to convince her to choose him .
I originally read this story in the Vexed anthology, it’s an enjoyable story that I read in one session both Daniel & Rebecca are still attracted to each other, in fact Rebecca has always loved Daniel. It’s a story of second chances & realising to do what you want rather than what a relative prescribes. Daniel is very sweet to give Rebecca the chance to choose her way forward, I did want to shake him at times for his dithering but he got there in the end
August 17, 2019
Too Tempting to Resist is the third book in the Gothic Love Series. This has been an interesting gothic series and this book is a great addition. Rebecca Bond has been forgotten while living at Crowmere Castle, but things are about to change once Lord Banfield, an extended family member, passes away. The new Lord Banfield has given her a choice, either find her own husband and marry before the start of the season or he will find her a husband. Rebecca had an unsuccessful season before her parents passed. She loved living in Cornwall and didn’t want a husband from London. She knew Daniel Godwin, Lord Stonebury, from childhood but during her season he had ignored her. Rebecca knew he would be arriving for the reading of the will and who better to teach her how to captivate a man than a rogue like him? Can they overcome their hurts of the past and fears of the future to have a HEA? This was a fun, light gothic book that was well written. I loved the characters and it had a great plot line.
August 21, 2019
The first book in this gothic romance package, Too wicked to
kiss is absolutely divine and sexy as hell. The romantic encounters between Gavin and Evangeline were delightful, I love everything about this one now it's onto the other. Too sinful to deny wasn’t up to scratch, it lacks enticement and Susan isn’t a good leading character. Now this other Too tempting to resist isn’t doing it for me either, it’s a bit bland. Well, I have come to the conclusion that the best was first, not that the other stories aren't good, Too wanton to wed is not sizzling enough for me.
kiss is absolutely divine and sexy as hell. The romantic encounters between Gavin and Evangeline were delightful, I love everything about this one now it's onto the other. Too sinful to deny wasn’t up to scratch, it lacks enticement and Susan isn’t a good leading character. Now this other Too tempting to resist isn’t doing it for me either, it’s a bit bland. Well, I have come to the conclusion that the best was first, not that the other stories aren't good, Too wanton to wed is not sizzling enough for me.
August 16, 2019
Simply beautiful - this short story was everything I want in a second chance romance. It was hard to read when Daniel was struggling with doing what he thought was the right thing. And I loved Rebecca; she could have let life beat her down but she found little things to keep her (somewhat) happy.
Even though this was a short story it didn't seemed rush and it's pacing was perfect every step of the way.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Even though this was a short story it didn't seemed rush and it's pacing was perfect every step of the way.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
August 9, 2019
Wonderful story of Rebecca, a poor orphan very low in the ton and Daniel, a rake of a viscount who gave her the cut direct years ago. There are no real surprises here—just romance for a lovely afternoon read. Well done!
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
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July 7, 2020I read this in about 30 minutes so.... that’s that I guess
October 21, 2019
I'm working my way through a collection of Erica Ridley's Gothics and this is lighter than the others in the collection. It's an expanded version of a previously published novella that was part of a different collection. We get a good amount of backstory for the lead characters, including the hurtful events that led to breaking their previous friendship, and the plot flows organically from the moment they meet again to it's very satisfying ending. No blood, gore, or sex here, just a somewhat Gothic setting.
I requested and voluntarily read a complimentary copy provided by the author via Netgalley and I offer my honest review in response.
I requested and voluntarily read a complimentary copy provided by the author via Netgalley and I offer my honest review in response.
August 22, 2019
A sweet romance between two people that are so right for each but believe they are incompatible. Expectations and belief pulling them apart. Oh, the life of the Ton! At times I became so frustrated I finally yelled, “Just grab and kiss her Daniel!!!!”
My only disappointment, downside, is that I didn’t really find this book a Gothic Romance, but ok, that's my take on the book. A nice read none the less.
My only disappointment, downside, is that I didn’t really find this book a Gothic Romance, but ok, that's my take on the book. A nice read none the less.
July 9, 2020
Not my favorite
I felt like the characters lacked depth. The lack of supporting characters may have been part of my dislike. This read more like a textbook than an actual story.
I felt like the characters lacked depth. The lack of supporting characters may have been part of my dislike. This read more like a textbook than an actual story.
November 20, 2020
Meh. There's not a whole lot to this story. I read the whole thing last night and I'm already forgetting it.
October 20, 2024
My Rating: 2.5 stars out of 5
There were parts about this story that I liked, and parts that I didn't. To begin with, I didn't feel as though this one really classified as a gothic romance. Sure, there was a spooky castle with a "foreboding" air to it that was supposedly haunted, but we never actually saw any proof of supernatural happenings taking place. I'm also confused as to how Rebecca was able to live there for years, "forgotten". I mean, maybe if the former Earl had dementia or Alzheimer's
or something I could see him forgetting that she was living under his roof (especially since he apparently forgot he was supposed to sponsor her second London season after her year of mourning for her parents was over), but the servants? And if that was the case and she really hadn't spoken to any of them in so long she considered herself another "ghost" of the castle, then why when she spotted a maid in the hall and asked her to accompany her to the village, did the maid immediately agree? Shouldn't she have been frightened thinking she was seeing an actual ghost? I was also more than a little confused about what happened between Daniel and Rebecca in the past. Originally she had said that he had given her the cut direct and that had affected her reputation on the marriage mart. But then as more details came out, it was revealed that he did not in fact give her the cut, but refused to dance with her (within earshot of his Grandmother and a few others) OUTSIDE of a ballroom due in part to the fact that she was not "out" yet. In my eyes, it would have been more scandalous for the both of them had he danced with her than by doing what he did.
Now before I get into what was without a doubt my biggest gripe with this story, let me talk a bit about what I liked for a moment.
I LOVED Daniel and Rebecca together. I loved their easy back and forth (even when she was mad at him), and the way she wasn't afraid to be herself with him. One instance that immediately springs to mind is when they are in the hedge maze and Daniel asks her to show him the way if only so he doesn't get lost, to which she immediately responds with "You're assuming I want you to come back." Or when she later tells him if he causes her to miss nuncheon she will either feel faint or furious. To which Daniel teases her about his "fond remembrances" of her "homicidal tendencies when deprived of a timely meal." To me, this just proved how strong their childhood friendship was, although I would have also liked to have seen them learn more about the people they were now as well.
Which brings me to my biggest issue with this story. The entire reason Daniel says he did what he did in the past was to try and please his grandmother. Apparently his grandmother doesn't think that Rebecca (who is related to an Earl) is "good enough" to be a Viscountess. And now, even though he is an adult in need of a wife and heir, he knows he can't marry Rebecca because his grandmother will make both of their lives a misery. He just knows she will go so far as to whisper the right words in other people's ears as to make sure Rebecca is never invited to do anything by anyone in society.
But of course, he loves Rebecca. And he soon realizes that he needs her as his wife. So he proceeds to surprise her with two gestures that he hopes will show her how much he values her and always has. It works, and she agrees to marry him.
And then..... we get an epilogue. A few years in the future. After Daniel and Rebecca are settled into their new married life with their adorable son. Which is all well and good, but WHERE IS THE DRAMA with grandma? Where is her reaction to the news that he was planning to marry Rebecca? Did she attempt to make things difficult for them or did she accept his choice? Did they meet and Rebecca was the first female to stand up to the old bat and impress her? These were things I desperately wanted to see/have the answers to, and due to the fact that his grandmother played such a huge role in why he felt they couldn't be together, I felt like she should have at least warranted a paragraph even if it was in the form of an anecdote during the epilogue.
However, due to the fact that this is an author that I have enjoyed in the past (including other books in this series), I will read more from them in the future. In fact, I do plan on reading the final two books in the Gothic Love Stories series just to see how they stack up against the others I have read.
There were parts about this story that I liked, and parts that I didn't. To begin with, I didn't feel as though this one really classified as a gothic romance. Sure, there was a spooky castle with a "foreboding" air to it that was supposedly haunted, but we never actually saw any proof of supernatural happenings taking place. I'm also confused as to how Rebecca was able to live there for years, "forgotten". I mean, maybe if the former Earl had dementia or Alzheimer's
or something I could see him forgetting that she was living under his roof (especially since he apparently forgot he was supposed to sponsor her second London season after her year of mourning for her parents was over), but the servants? And if that was the case and she really hadn't spoken to any of them in so long she considered herself another "ghost" of the castle, then why when she spotted a maid in the hall and asked her to accompany her to the village, did the maid immediately agree? Shouldn't she have been frightened thinking she was seeing an actual ghost? I was also more than a little confused about what happened between Daniel and Rebecca in the past. Originally she had said that he had given her the cut direct and that had affected her reputation on the marriage mart. But then as more details came out, it was revealed that he did not in fact give her the cut, but refused to dance with her (within earshot of his Grandmother and a few others) OUTSIDE of a ballroom due in part to the fact that she was not "out" yet. In my eyes, it would have been more scandalous for the both of them had he danced with her than by doing what he did.
Now before I get into what was without a doubt my biggest gripe with this story, let me talk a bit about what I liked for a moment.
I LOVED Daniel and Rebecca together. I loved their easy back and forth (even when she was mad at him), and the way she wasn't afraid to be herself with him. One instance that immediately springs to mind is when they are in the hedge maze and Daniel asks her to show him the way if only so he doesn't get lost, to which she immediately responds with "You're assuming I want you to come back." Or when she later tells him if he causes her to miss nuncheon she will either feel faint or furious. To which Daniel teases her about his "fond remembrances" of her "homicidal tendencies when deprived of a timely meal." To me, this just proved how strong their childhood friendship was, although I would have also liked to have seen them learn more about the people they were now as well.
Which brings me to my biggest issue with this story. The entire reason Daniel says he did what he did in the past was to try and please his grandmother. Apparently his grandmother doesn't think that Rebecca (who is related to an Earl) is "good enough" to be a Viscountess. And now, even though he is an adult in need of a wife and heir, he knows he can't marry Rebecca because his grandmother will make both of their lives a misery. He just knows she will go so far as to whisper the right words in other people's ears as to make sure Rebecca is never invited to do anything by anyone in society.
But of course, he loves Rebecca. And he soon realizes that he needs her as his wife. So he proceeds to surprise her with two gestures that he hopes will show her how much he values her and always has. It works, and she agrees to marry him.
And then..... we get an epilogue. A few years in the future. After Daniel and Rebecca are settled into their new married life with their adorable son. Which is all well and good, but WHERE IS THE DRAMA with grandma? Where is her reaction to the news that he was planning to marry Rebecca? Did she attempt to make things difficult for them or did she accept his choice? Did they meet and Rebecca was the first female to stand up to the old bat and impress her? These were things I desperately wanted to see/have the answers to, and due to the fact that his grandmother played such a huge role in why he felt they couldn't be together, I felt like she should have at least warranted a paragraph even if it was in the form of an anecdote during the epilogue.
However, due to the fact that this is an author that I have enjoyed in the past (including other books in this series), I will read more from them in the future. In fact, I do plan on reading the final two books in the Gothic Love Stories series just to see how they stack up against the others I have read.
January 3, 2020
Having read a lot of Erica Ridley's Lords and Dukes, I was very happy to receive the Gothic Love Stories Arc, with 4(!) e-books in one. Yay!
Too Wicked to Kiss is the first one, about Evangeline Pemberton who is on the run from her evil stepfather, only to wound up at the haunted castle of the excentric Gavin Lioncroft, rumored to be a murderer. When a murder occurs at the castle, will Evangeline be safe? A wonderful who-dunnit-story with a lot of twists and turns. Four out of five stars from me.
Too sinful to Deny is the second part, which continues with lady Susan Stanton, who we have met at the first part. Because Susan didn't was a very friendly character in the first part I had a lot of issues with connecting to Susan and feel sympathy for her exile. However, Evan Bothwick does an excellent job of creating the correct scenario for you to pick up feelings for Susan as well. Three out of five stars from me.
After two long stories, Too Tempting to Resist is a lot shorter and more fastpaced. We meet Rebecca who needs to find a husband within months to ensure a roof above her head. And although she still has a bruised heart, who can help her better to find a suitor, then with the help of her former friend (and crusher of heart) Daniel, the current Lord of Stonebury? But when they meet, sparks still fly. How to find a husband, when Daniel keeps distracting her? A cute and cozy read: four out of five stars from me.
The last story Too Wanton to Wed just stole my breath. This story is heart wrenching, wonderful and shocking. Alistair Waldegrave is desperately looking for a cure for his nine-year-old daughter Lillian, who is suffering from a rare disease, where she burns from the rays of the sun. Seeing no solution but to keep his daughter locked down in the abbey, to keep her from the sun, he has estranged himself from her. So, when a mysterious woman lands on his doorstep, who happens to be a governess, Alistair takes a leap of faith and hires her on the spot. Violet can't believe her luck: while being on the run from a crime to save an innocent orphan girl, she stumbles upon a very strange and desolate abbey. The owner hires her as a governess for his daughter. Violet and Lillian form an unlikely bond, from the recognizable situation they both are in. As an orphan herself, Violet knows how it feels to long for some companionship and love. Not only from the little girl under her charge, but also from her loving father. But Alistair doesn't think he deserves happiness. But while the bonds within the abbey are slowly growing, so is the danger from outside: both Violet's past and the gossiping of the village are threatening to destroy everything which has been build inside the abbey. Can those broken souls find happiness again? Find out for yourself, don't forget your tissues. Wonderful read! Five out of five stars from me and a special thank you to Netgalley for providing the arc.
Too Wicked to Kiss is the first one, about Evangeline Pemberton who is on the run from her evil stepfather, only to wound up at the haunted castle of the excentric Gavin Lioncroft, rumored to be a murderer. When a murder occurs at the castle, will Evangeline be safe? A wonderful who-dunnit-story with a lot of twists and turns. Four out of five stars from me.
Too sinful to Deny is the second part, which continues with lady Susan Stanton, who we have met at the first part. Because Susan didn't was a very friendly character in the first part I had a lot of issues with connecting to Susan and feel sympathy for her exile. However, Evan Bothwick does an excellent job of creating the correct scenario for you to pick up feelings for Susan as well. Three out of five stars from me.
After two long stories, Too Tempting to Resist is a lot shorter and more fastpaced. We meet Rebecca who needs to find a husband within months to ensure a roof above her head. And although she still has a bruised heart, who can help her better to find a suitor, then with the help of her former friend (and crusher of heart) Daniel, the current Lord of Stonebury? But when they meet, sparks still fly. How to find a husband, when Daniel keeps distracting her? A cute and cozy read: four out of five stars from me.
The last story Too Wanton to Wed just stole my breath. This story is heart wrenching, wonderful and shocking. Alistair Waldegrave is desperately looking for a cure for his nine-year-old daughter Lillian, who is suffering from a rare disease, where she burns from the rays of the sun. Seeing no solution but to keep his daughter locked down in the abbey, to keep her from the sun, he has estranged himself from her. So, when a mysterious woman lands on his doorstep, who happens to be a governess, Alistair takes a leap of faith and hires her on the spot. Violet can't believe her luck: while being on the run from a crime to save an innocent orphan girl, she stumbles upon a very strange and desolate abbey. The owner hires her as a governess for his daughter. Violet and Lillian form an unlikely bond, from the recognizable situation they both are in. As an orphan herself, Violet knows how it feels to long for some companionship and love. Not only from the little girl under her charge, but also from her loving father. But Alistair doesn't think he deserves happiness. But while the bonds within the abbey are slowly growing, so is the danger from outside: both Violet's past and the gossiping of the village are threatening to destroy everything which has been build inside the abbey. Can those broken souls find happiness again? Find out for yourself, don't forget your tissues. Wonderful read! Five out of five stars from me and a special thank you to Netgalley for providing the arc.
October 23, 2020
I read novellas (or is this a novelette?) but rarely find them satisfying because I love immersing myself in stories for days, creating the world in my mind, and getting attached to the characters and their lives. But once in a while, I find one that shows me it's possible to create satisfying stories and well-rounded characters within the conventional word limit of a novella.
Too Tempting to Resist is one such novella. The setting is a haunted, 600-year old castle on the Cornish coast. The protagonist is a woman living in this castle but forgotten by the Earl to whom the castle belongs. When the Earl, who happens to be her guardian, dies, Rebecca faces an ultimatum from his heir. She needs to find a husband in 3 months, or he will choose one for her. Determined to avoid marrying a dullard or a brute, she decides to ask Daniel Goodenham, Viscount Stonebury, for help.
Daniel and Rebecca are childhood friends. But circumstances and his grandmother have driven them apart. When the story begins, Rebecca isn't open to forgiving him but is willing to set it aside to ask for his help. Daniel feels guilt over his treatment of Rebecca. He wants to do the right thing for her while hiding his feelings' actual depth from her. Over time they realize their misconceptions of each other and that they could never be just friends.
I love Rebecca. In a different time, she could have been anything she wanted. She reminded me of Lady Amelia Sheffield née Pembroke from another Erica Ridley novella, The Viscount’s Tempting Minx. Daniel is a good character. You know right away that she is his superior in every way despite him being a Viscount. Even he acknowledges it and loves her for it. I can’t help but like him.
This is a quick read. You can finish reading it in one sitting. Pick it up if you enjoy Regency romance, friends-to-lovers, and non-creepy haunted castles. Now that I think about it, I realize it is a great time to pick up a book with a haunted setting, it being October with Halloween a week away. I downloaded it when it was available for free on Google Play. Not sure if it still is, but if it is, yay!
Too Tempting to Resist is one such novella. The setting is a haunted, 600-year old castle on the Cornish coast. The protagonist is a woman living in this castle but forgotten by the Earl to whom the castle belongs. When the Earl, who happens to be her guardian, dies, Rebecca faces an ultimatum from his heir. She needs to find a husband in 3 months, or he will choose one for her. Determined to avoid marrying a dullard or a brute, she decides to ask Daniel Goodenham, Viscount Stonebury, for help.
Daniel and Rebecca are childhood friends. But circumstances and his grandmother have driven them apart. When the story begins, Rebecca isn't open to forgiving him but is willing to set it aside to ask for his help. Daniel feels guilt over his treatment of Rebecca. He wants to do the right thing for her while hiding his feelings' actual depth from her. Over time they realize their misconceptions of each other and that they could never be just friends.
I love Rebecca. In a different time, she could have been anything she wanted. She reminded me of Lady Amelia Sheffield née Pembroke from another Erica Ridley novella, The Viscount’s Tempting Minx. Daniel is a good character. You know right away that she is his superior in every way despite him being a Viscount. Even he acknowledges it and loves her for it. I can’t help but like him.
This is a quick read. You can finish reading it in one sitting. Pick it up if you enjoy Regency romance, friends-to-lovers, and non-creepy haunted castles. Now that I think about it, I realize it is a great time to pick up a book with a haunted setting, it being October with Halloween a week away. I downloaded it when it was available for free on Google Play. Not sure if it still is, but if it is, yay!
August 20, 2019
Miss Rebecca Bond is a young lady that has had a lot of sorrow in her 22 years. Her childhood friend and first and only love hurt her very badly at her coming out. He didn't want to disappoint his grandmother and ends up losing the only
person who loved him for himself. She has also lost both her parents, in a accident. Her Great Uncle, The Earl of Banfield gave her a place to live at Crowmere Castle. But he is elderly and in poor health, and doesn't even remember she is there. Very few in the castle seems to know she is living there. As the Castle is known to be haunted what ever she does to help out, keeping the books, doing things for cook, or some of maids is just thought to be one of the ghost. When the Uncle dies, she must make herself known to the new Earl who is shocked to find he is responsible for other young lady. He has five daughter and a wife !!!! He tells her he will give her one month to find a husband and leave, he will also give her a dowry to make it easier. Poor Rebecca doesn't want a husband, or to rejoin society. She just wants a quiet life by herself in the country she loves.
Daniel Goodenham, Lord Stonebury is the cad who broke Rebecca heart and lost her friendship. When he receives notice of the Uncle's death and that he needs to be at the Castle for the will. He decides to get there early and try to patch things up with Rebecca. He has always felt bad for the way he treated her cause he was afraid of his nasty Grandmother. He shows up hoping to prove to her that he is her friend and maybe more. Unknown to him Rebecca has
decided he will be the one to help her find a husband which will help make up for the past.
How all this comes out and who wins and who doesn't is fun fast read. Lots of twists and turns, heartache, some laughs too. For a short story it was a good read. It has a great pace for a short story.
I received and ARC from the author, and am giving my honest opinion.
Grub a copy and a cup of coffee and enjoy....
person who loved him for himself. She has also lost both her parents, in a accident. Her Great Uncle, The Earl of Banfield gave her a place to live at Crowmere Castle. But he is elderly and in poor health, and doesn't even remember she is there. Very few in the castle seems to know she is living there. As the Castle is known to be haunted what ever she does to help out, keeping the books, doing things for cook, or some of maids is just thought to be one of the ghost. When the Uncle dies, she must make herself known to the new Earl who is shocked to find he is responsible for other young lady. He has five daughter and a wife !!!! He tells her he will give her one month to find a husband and leave, he will also give her a dowry to make it easier. Poor Rebecca doesn't want a husband, or to rejoin society. She just wants a quiet life by herself in the country she loves.
Daniel Goodenham, Lord Stonebury is the cad who broke Rebecca heart and lost her friendship. When he receives notice of the Uncle's death and that he needs to be at the Castle for the will. He decides to get there early and try to patch things up with Rebecca. He has always felt bad for the way he treated her cause he was afraid of his nasty Grandmother. He shows up hoping to prove to her that he is her friend and maybe more. Unknown to him Rebecca has
decided he will be the one to help her find a husband which will help make up for the past.
How all this comes out and who wins and who doesn't is fun fast read. Lots of twists and turns, heartache, some laughs too. For a short story it was a good read. It has a great pace for a short story.
I received and ARC from the author, and am giving my honest opinion.
Grub a copy and a cup of coffee and enjoy....
October 2, 2019
TOO TEMPTING TO RESIST is the third book in the Gothic Love Stories series, formerly released as Romancing the Rogue. This is a stand-alone gothic novella with no tie to the previous two books in the series, but there is mention of at least one character from the Dukes of War series.
My heart went out to Rebecca – orphaned twice – by her parents and now by the old earl, her guardian these last five years. I wanted her to find friendship, companionship, and true love. Enter Daniel – a young man who has allowed title and family to come between them before – will he make the same mistakes again? Add in a few ghosts in the castle and it was totally my cup of tea!
I loved that in this story both of our main characters have been shown to mature and learn from their pasts. They each long for the other, but are reluctant to dive in too quickly. They each have a fear of rejection that must be laid to rest. Ms. Ridley does a wonderful job of building their past and their present to allow them to regain the trust that is needed to bring them to where they both always wanted to be.
This was a feel happy story that had me smiling for hours after I closed my Kindle.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: TOO TEMPTING TO RESIST
Series: Gothic Love Stories #3
Category /Genre: Historic Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC
Received from: Erica Ridley
My heart went out to Rebecca – orphaned twice – by her parents and now by the old earl, her guardian these last five years. I wanted her to find friendship, companionship, and true love. Enter Daniel – a young man who has allowed title and family to come between them before – will he make the same mistakes again? Add in a few ghosts in the castle and it was totally my cup of tea!
I loved that in this story both of our main characters have been shown to mature and learn from their pasts. They each long for the other, but are reluctant to dive in too quickly. They each have a fear of rejection that must be laid to rest. Ms. Ridley does a wonderful job of building their past and their present to allow them to regain the trust that is needed to bring them to where they both always wanted to be.
This was a feel happy story that had me smiling for hours after I closed my Kindle.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: TOO TEMPTING TO RESIST
Series: Gothic Love Stories #3
Category /Genre: Historic Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC
Received from: Erica Ridley
August 11, 2019
Beautiful second-chance romance!
Daniel and Rebecca, childhood friends, were thwarted in their efforts for a real relationship when his father's sudden death saddled Daniel with a viscountcy and more responsibilities than good sense. After her parents' death, Rebecca takes refuge at her great-uncle's remote castle, but when he dies her uncle demands she find a husband within the month or he'll find one for her.
Though they haven't spoken in years, his sudden arrival at the castle gives Rebecca the opportunity to ask for his help in becoming a woman who can bring a country gentleman up to scratch. Daniel still wants Rebecca, but he knows his position and obligations in London would never make her happy, so he accepts that friendship is all he can have. It was their youth that forced them apart before; now they both have some maturing to do before they can even dream of a future together.
This is a clean novella, nothing more than a few kisses, but the attraction between Daniel and Rebecca is strong and goes much deeper than their physical chemistry. I loved watching their romance rekindle gently, gradually, with intelligent, witty banter and a growing awareness and respect for one another. The decision that made the HEA possible was exactly what was needed for Daniel to prove he was finally worthy of her love. This book is short, but very sweet and satisfying. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Daniel and Rebecca, childhood friends, were thwarted in their efforts for a real relationship when his father's sudden death saddled Daniel with a viscountcy and more responsibilities than good sense. After her parents' death, Rebecca takes refuge at her great-uncle's remote castle, but when he dies her uncle demands she find a husband within the month or he'll find one for her.
Though they haven't spoken in years, his sudden arrival at the castle gives Rebecca the opportunity to ask for his help in becoming a woman who can bring a country gentleman up to scratch. Daniel still wants Rebecca, but he knows his position and obligations in London would never make her happy, so he accepts that friendship is all he can have. It was their youth that forced them apart before; now they both have some maturing to do before they can even dream of a future together.
This is a clean novella, nothing more than a few kisses, but the attraction between Daniel and Rebecca is strong and goes much deeper than their physical chemistry. I loved watching their romance rekindle gently, gradually, with intelligent, witty banter and a growing awareness and respect for one another. The decision that made the HEA possible was exactly what was needed for Daniel to prove he was finally worthy of her love. This book is short, but very sweet and satisfying. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
November 13, 2019
Set in Crowmere Castle starting on October 13, 1811 in Delmouth, Cornwall, England and this story is full of references to the spookiness of the drafty old Castle and its ghosts as it is believed by villagers to be cursed and haunted.
Inscribed as South Cornwall’s most carefully avoided stronghold: the soaring monolithic stones of haunted Crowmere Castle prove to be a gloomy and also dangerous place for the unwary at times as well.
For the past five years, since losing her parents at 17, an orphaned miss named Rebecca Bond has lived at the castle. Now 22 years of age Rebecca has made the best of her situation over these years by filling in on the chores of servants and keeping its current master, the elderly Earl of Banfields books.
The very man who lay upstairs in his sickbed and had forgotten, along with everyone else that his niece had come to stay all those years ago, was the only thing standing between Rebecca and being homeless.
Of course in true Gothic Romance fashion his death opens up an entirely new set of problems for Rebecca which in turn spills over onto a former childhood friend, one Daniel Goodenham, Lord Stonebury.
The story plot which followed was not unique in many ways but it did work for me and slightly sad after this book have no more in the series to read.
Inscribed as South Cornwall’s most carefully avoided stronghold: the soaring monolithic stones of haunted Crowmere Castle prove to be a gloomy and also dangerous place for the unwary at times as well.
For the past five years, since losing her parents at 17, an orphaned miss named Rebecca Bond has lived at the castle. Now 22 years of age Rebecca has made the best of her situation over these years by filling in on the chores of servants and keeping its current master, the elderly Earl of Banfields books.
The very man who lay upstairs in his sickbed and had forgotten, along with everyone else that his niece had come to stay all those years ago, was the only thing standing between Rebecca and being homeless.
Of course in true Gothic Romance fashion his death opens up an entirely new set of problems for Rebecca which in turn spills over onto a former childhood friend, one Daniel Goodenham, Lord Stonebury.
The story plot which followed was not unique in many ways but it did work for me and slightly sad after this book have no more in the series to read.
August 21, 2019
Too Tempting to Resist is a revamped version of Ms. Ridley’s Romancing the Rogue which I read and reviewed last year. The castle’s name has changed in this revamped version to Crowmere. The main characters have remained the same though Daniel is now Lord Stonebury. I found this to be a sweet and lovely novella by Erica with endearing characters. Daniel and Rebecca had been good friends years ago but when he became Viscount North Barrows at age 17, he undertook family and societal responsibilities and ignored Rebecca from then on. Years later they meet again when Daniel comes to Crowmere for the reading of the will of Rebecca's uncle. The new earl wants Rebecca to wed and leave the castle. Daniel apologizes and asks Rebecca's forgiveness for how he treated her years ago and agrees to help her find a suitable man to marry, even though there is still chemistry between the two. Daniel's life is in London and Rebecca's is in the country so can they resolve the divide? Ms. Ridley has done a very good job drawing a reader into this story and feeling the emotions going on between the characters. It had a good plot and was an entertaining, satisfying read. I was given an ARC of this revamped version. All opinions stated in this review are voluntary and my own.
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