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Sinclair and Raven #9

Defending Danger

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When a pirate captures her heart

Running an investigative service with her siblings gives Dorset Sinclair a purpose now she’s lost her twin to love. But trouble steps into her path in the guise of a pirate.

She didn’t expect to save the life of the wickedly handsome stranger, and is shocked at the sparks of attraction that flare between them. Fleeing without giving him her name, Dorset is determined to put him from her thoughts, as he will play no part in her future.

But when the pirate aka Ashford Charlton, appears at her sister’s wedding, her life is turned on its head. His touch makes her shiver and his kisses make her wish for more, but any connection with him will lead to danger for both her and her family. Can she ignore that to follow her heart?

Desire is dangerous

Ash has only one reason to visit London, to find his long lost brother. But when a beautiful fiery woman risks herself to rescue him from certain death, everything changes.

He tracks his brother to Raven Castle, home of their cousin, but finds more than he expected. His beautiful saviour, Dorset Sinclair is there. Gentle, sweet natured, and with a backbone of pure iron, she makes it clear that she wants nothing to do with him, a man she sees as an unscrupulous pirate.

Danger is on his heels, and Ash knows this alone should make him leave those he loves to keep them safe, and yet he feels like he has finally come home in the arms of Dorrie and the family they share.

Can their love keep them safe from a man who is determined to tear them apart, or will Ash pay for his past sins with the ultimate sacrifice, losing the woman he loves?

288 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 9, 2022

623 people are currently reading
1376 people want to read

About the author

Wendy Vella

91 books820 followers

Wendy Vella is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of historical romances filled with mystery, intrigue, unconventional heroines, and dashing heroes.

Connect with Wendy in her Facebook reader group facebook.com/groups/wendyvellareaders or sign up for her reader newsletter at WendyVella.com to get goodies, exclusive excerpts and behind-the-scenes peeks.


Wendy also writes small town contemporary romances under the name Lani Blake.

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5 stars
447 (65%)
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177 (25%)
3 stars
48 (7%)
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6 (<1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Profile Image for Lydia Wallace.
512 reviews101 followers
July 22, 2022
I appreciate authors who delight in wordsmithing, especially when they are so proficient at clever banter. This author has great comic timing. The action, the camaraderie between the Sinclairs and the Ravens, and the genuine delight of family all come across masterfully.

Imagine a huge family reunion where just about everyone makes an appearance – that’s what Defending Danger was for me – a loving, protective family vowing to Honor and Protect. Aside from a great story, we get to check in with the Raven and Sinclair characters that we love so much. If you are new to the Raven-Sinclair series, it might be a bit overwhelming, but stay with it. You’ll love it. In fact, every time I read a new Raven & Sinclair adventure, I want to go back to the beginning and read them all again. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for &#x1f41d; Shaz &#x1f41d; .
799 reviews24 followers
March 25, 2023
Ash is a pirate who captured the heart of Dorset Sinclair. Another good read by Wendy Vella. This series has been a good read . Each book gets you more hooked into the humour and camaraderie of the Sinclair and Raven family’s.
Looking forward to Warwick and Samantha story.
Profile Image for Elaine.
4,246 reviews92 followers
August 12, 2022
This was a fantastic story. Omg, I cannot tell you how good it was. I took my time reading it, because it was brilliant, kept me awake at night, and actually had tears in my eyes at one point. Great Sinclair and Raven characters as usual. I love the whole series, but cannot pick a favourite, they are all fantastic reads. Thank you Wendy Vella! 5☆
Profile Image for Pam  Bereznak.
1,768 reviews127 followers
July 15, 2022
I have read hundreds and hundreds of different authors over my 2500 books read since 2015 but I only have 31 authors that I consider my favorite and have read all their books in my genre. Wendy Vella is one of those favorites. As a matter of fact, of those 31 authors, just over 1,000 of their books make up the total 2500 I’ve read. That says a lot about them.

This is my 29th book by Wendy Vella and I’ve been reading her books since 2016. This has been a wonderful and interesting series and I’ve enjoyed all the books.

I hope this isn’t a spoiler but OMG the scene at the beginning between Gus and Ash at the wedding and the reception…yikes, get the tissues. Such a great read. Loved Dorrie and Ash. I love the whole concept of the Sinclairs and Ravens being together. Just a great read and great series.
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,364 reviews30 followers
July 18, 2022
Secrets kept
Dorrie was somewhere she had no business alone while on a mission for the investigative agency.
She saves a man but doesn’t know who he except he kissed her senseless and she saved his life.
When Ash shows up at her Somer her twins wedding she warns him immediately to tell no one she saved his life.
Ash who keeps trying to escape and the family keeps drawing him in thinks he will be gone in a few hours! (lol) not with this family.
When Ash and Gus reconnect it is stilted at first because both did not want to believe the worst of each other,
It seems at first Ash is too dark and guarded and has so much internal pain he’s all wrong for Dorset Aka Dorrie! But as the story unfolds so does their love.
But danger is never far and when it strikes again will their love and family save Ashford Aka Ash one more time.
Baron is Ash’s friend and he saved Gus life and he is also in danger as well.
Now how to rescue two stubborn men from certain death,
I love Baron nationality and that he is so welcomed into the fold.
I love this story with the bonus epilogue well 10 stars!! Well down Wendy! Bravo!!
Profile Image for Lana Birky.
1,676 reviews22 followers
June 29, 2022
FABULOUS is all I can say after finishing this book! As always, it was well written, with a great story to let all the Ravens-Sinclairs come together for Somer Sinclair's wedding. It was so much fun to revisit all the previous characters that we've come to love and then to have another new couple was a bonus.

Dorset Sinclair "Dorrie" is Somer Sinclair's twin & Somer is marrying the love of her life (a Raven), Gus Charlton. Dorrie is happy for her sister but she is hiding how sad she will be without her lifelong, constant companion but she loves deep & feels like she will be alone.

Ash Charlton is the missing brother of the groom, Gus. Ash was forced to leave Gus years ago to save his life but Gus thought he had just abandoned him because he hadn't heard from him in years. Ash is back to explain what happened to Gus but after being held captive, beaten & doing what he needed to survive; he has changed.

When Dorrie saves Ash from being killed, sparks fly but she finds help from his friend to take care of his wounds & leaves, never to meet again. But Ash shows up at the castle a couple of days before her sister's wedding & announces he is Gus' long-lost brother. All the family fun starts here & what a hoot they are but slowly Dorrie & Ash come together. You cannot miss ready their journey to a HEA - I cried through the entire last chapter & several time throughout the book. You can read this as a standalone, but you really need to get to know this family from the beginning - I guarantee you will love them! I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
3,540 reviews14 followers
June 28, 2022
I hope this series never ends! Defending Danger is a can't put it down historical romance by Wendy Vella. This book grabbed me on the first page and didn't free me until the end. Dorrie was doing some investigating when she saves Ash. They meet again when Ash finds his brother as he's marrying Dorrie's sister. Dorrie and Ash's story is loaded with drama, humor, sizzle, action and suspense. I loved this book and look forward to reading more from Wendy Vella soon. Defending Danger is book 10 of the Sinclair and Raven Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
389 reviews1 follower
August 7, 2022
Surprisingly Wonderful!

Loved Dorrie's and Ash's story. She felt the pressure of being the only Sinclair unmarried. He was consumed by the need for revenge. Once they are together, they both realized the power of their connection!
Profile Image for Amy.
229 reviews5 followers
July 20, 2022
I Couldn’t Stop Reading!

Every time I read a book in the Sinclair and Raven series I get lost in the world that Wendy Vella created. Time fades away, and I feel like I’m there in her world.

The Sinclair and Raven families are something special. I love that they have such strong family bonds. I also appreciate that from other series of hers occasionally make appearances in the other’s series. Dev’s speech at the family meal before Somer and Gus get married is special.

I’m looking forward to Warwick and Samantha’s story, but I’ll be sad when the series is over. My hope is that Wendy gives us the gift of reading about the next generation of Sinclairs and Ravens!
Profile Image for Fanosse23.
613 reviews
July 3, 2022
Every story in the Raven-Sinclair series is amazing and this one did not disappoint. It was great having a reunion with the characters from earlier books as they prepare to celebrate Somer Sinclair’s wedding to Gus.

This is Dorset Sinclair’s “Dorrie” story she is Somer’s twin who is getting married to another Raven. Although, Dorrie is happy for her sister she is feeling sad because she knows her sister will no longer be by her side and her life will be changing.

During an investigation Dorrie saves the life of a very handsome stranger and she cannot deny the attraction she feels toward him. After she saves him she leaves and never expects to she him again.
At her sister’s wedding her mysterious stranger Ashford Charlton is in attendance as he is Gus’s brother and the reason for his visit to England. When Dorrie realizes he is a Raven she begs Ash to keep it quiet that she saved him. She does her best to stay away from Ash but is that possible or are destined to be together?

Ash has a very dangerous man wanting to kill him and Gus so he does his best to distance himself from Dorrie and the rest of the Raven-Sinclair family. Although, they offer him help he is stubborn and refuses to let them get involved. However, they do not let family struggle alone and once again the Raven-Sinclair’s save their own.

I have read every one of these books and can honestly say each one holds my interest to the very last page. I especially enjoyed this story filled with drama, danger, romance, unconditional love, friendship, and family loyalty. I think what made this one even more special was having the entire Raven-Sinclair family involved throughout the story.

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily providing my honest review. I highly recommend you read this entire series!
1,614 reviews14 followers
July 1, 2022
In reading an average of 3-4 books a week (love retirement), only a few times have I wished a book would be made into a movie. This is one of those few times. It is loaded with so much emotion from happiness to sadness that it is hard to convey. The H and his friend have suffered so much mental and physical pain. You understand his reasoning to not get attached. His journey to let go is not an easy one and my heart ached for him.

A huge series that I hope will never end! This author does an amazing job in giving you the back stories of these two families so it is a stand alone. But, please read this unique series!

It is filled with suspense, turmoil, intrigue, twists, great main and secondary characters, magic, caring and loving families. The characters are written with such depth that you feel you know them. I felt a connection to this couple from the start. There is lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 and described once in detail and another briefly.

If you want to see the future for our H/h you must download an epilogue 10 years in the future. Which means you sign up for this author's newsletter. This is one of the few times I don't mind it (pet peeve to download), but when it's an author I enjoy and already receive her newsletter it's ok. You will not want to miss anything written by this author, so I recommend downloading the epilogue so you can get on her mailing list.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, very romantic and steam. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to decide to purchase this unique story. Which I highly recommend this story and series.

I received an ARC, all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
Profile Image for Cindy Woltman.
288 reviews
July 17, 2022
Bravo 5+ Stars

I have absolutely loved each book in this series. For some reason this one touched my heart just a bit deeper. I loved how this story played out scene by scene. I absolutely loved reacquainting myself with all the family and friends. Ash and Dorrie have a beautiful love. He is healed emotionally and she has her equal. The extended epilogue is wonderful!!
600 reviews1 follower
July 19, 2022
Love the Sinclair's and Ravens

Love the family interaction and have been watching the family grow over the course of the series. Looking forward to Warwick finding his forever mate.
777 reviews2 followers
July 19, 2022
Love it

I love the Ravens and Sinclairs stories! I can't wait for War and Samantha's story!
It was well written and a page turner. I finished the book in one sitting!
3,540 reviews14 followers
July 10, 2022
I hope this series never ends! Defending Danger is a can't put it down historical romance by Wendy Vella. This book grabbed me on the first page and didn't free me until the end. Dorrie was doing some investigating when she saves Ash. They meet again when Ash finds his brother as he's marrying Dorrie's sister. Dorrie and Ash's story is loaded with drama, humor, sizzle, action and suspense. I loved this book and look forward to reading more from Wendy Vella soon. Defending Danger is book 9 of the Sinclair and Raven Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Gayla McNicholas.
76 reviews2 followers
July 12, 2022
Captivating

I loved this book. It's a great story on it's own and as a continuation in the series. I really enjoyed seeing characters from other series make appearances in this story. The growth Dorset and Ash go through was emotionally captivating. I look forward to Warwick's book both for itself and so I can see more of the rest of the family.
Profile Image for Wendy.
323 reviews7 followers
June 26, 2022
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely fell in love with Ash and Dorrie. They both break your heart at times as they struggle with life. Dorrie must adjust to her twin getting married and no longer being the number one person for her twin. Ash had to become cold and unfeeling to protect himself from the life he was forced to live. He desperately wants family but is terrified to let anyone close. As they travel this journey they will both have to learn to trust and love each other and family. We also get to visit the characters back in Crunstan Cliff and a few other familiar characters in London.

I think this is one of the best in this series so grab a drink, find a cozy spot and prepare to dig in. You have lots of love, family, action and all kinds of feels. Definitely a 5 star for me.
Profile Image for SynergyQuest.
2,010 reviews7 followers
July 10, 2022
Real Talk: I can't get enough of the Raven and Sinclair families! They are so fun and wacky, just like every loving family I know. Defending Danger is Dorset and Ash’s HEA, and it's so satisfying! She is convinced that she won't marry a Raven. He is determined to check on his brother and then disappear. Neither get their wish. This historical romance is daring, heart-warming, and sizzling with just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
Profile Image for Heather Cowan.
21 reviews
July 10, 2022
An Exciting Adventurous Read

Another great book in the Sinclair and Raven Series. Finally meeting Gus's brother who we thought had turned down a dark path. Dorset comes to the rescue. While waiting on a lead she finds herself saving an unknown man from certain death. He is not too thrilled about her actions though. Hang on for another zany adventure with this noble but odd family.
61 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2022
Loved it! You had to know twins to everything together. It's happened in real life. The sister of a twin will marry the brother-in-law. I liked the epilogue not included in the book, too.
Can't wait for Samatha and Warwick's story to come out!!
260 reviews
July 13, 2022
Another brilliant episode in the Sinclair Raven series. Each one is as exciting and enthralling as the others. I’m going to be disappointed when this series ends
Thanks very much Wendy
Profile Image for Mary Cool.
1 review
June 28, 2022
Imagine a huge family reunion where just about everyone makes an appearance – that’s what Defending Danger was for me – a loving, protective family vowing to Honor and Protect. Aside from a great story (which I absolutely loved), we get to check in with the Raven and Sinclair characters that we love so much. If you are new to the Raven-Sinclair series, it might be a bit overwhelming, but stay with it. You’ll love it. In fact, every time I read a new Raven & Sinclair adventure, I want to go back to the beginning and read them all again.
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,770 reviews7 followers
July 4, 2024
Ash- pirateer out for revenge and before that person kills him or his family. Raven's cousin and Gus's brother
Dorset/Dorrie- sense of smell , last female Sinclair left single.

I enjoyed reading this magnificent story of family sticks together and helps one another no matter what. In this case scarlet fever and a tyrant wanting the H dead. Their story has a loving hea!!

KU
4 reviews
September 28, 2022
As usual.... perfect

This series is brilliant... even after the 10th book, I am waiting eagerly for the next one.
Hope the children grow up quickly to continue with the 'Danger'
Profile Image for Beth Vang.
24 reviews
August 2, 2022
Laughs, romance, suspense... All rolled into one

Vella is one of those authors who I'm automatically cheering for as soon as I hear her name. We are treated again with another wonderfully written story. Ash goes through such a wonderful character arc; returning to his family, bonding with his brother, falling in love, and fighting his demons. Dorrie is also a memorable character as she knows her own mind and never let's anyone hold her down. Add in the funny family banter and other recognizable characters from the Vella universe and you have gold.
17 reviews
July 30, 2022
Loved this latest story of the Sinclair Raven series! Somer and Ashton's story is filled with tension and suspense. I look forward to the next edition in the series!
Author 4 books9 followers
July 5, 2022
I look forward to reading the Sinclair/Raven Prologue each time a new book in the series is released. I love how the final sentence reads like marriage vows: “To honor and protect the Raven family was the Sinclair family creed.” The only edit I would make would be to add “love” to the sentence because we know there will be a HEA for a Raven and Sinclair!

Dorset “Dorrie” Sinclair has grown up on the pages of this series and now it’s her turn to save a Raven… And how fantastic that it happens to be the brother to her twin sister’s soon-to-be husband. Dorrie finds herself in new territory for the first time; she is suddenly navigating life without her twin by her side at nearly every turn.

Ashford “Ash” Charlton has one mission – revenge! And believes that loving Dorrie, his brother, or his new found family will only lead to more trouble for him and them. But how long can he really fight the Sinclair/Raven connection?

I wrote earlier that we know there will be a HEA for a Sinclair and Raven at the end of each book, which is one of my favorite things about this series! The journey may start the same with a Sinclair saving a Raven, but the adventure is different each time. This series is not only about the new couple, but family, and friends from other series that create a world that although imaginary, is familiar. Like a favorite blanket or sweatshirt that just feels warm and right… Wendy Vella has not only written another book, but she has added a story to a world she has created with strong relationships and ties that are unbreakable no matter the circumstances.

I highly recommend this series along with the Langley Sisters and Deville Brothers series – although the books don’t have to be read in order, it sure is fun too because it’s like watching the next episode in your favorite show with all the characters making appearances at the right times!
456 reviews2 followers
July 14, 2022
Oh my, I love this series

This team is the story of the last of the Sinclair sisters in finding their Raven. This is a story of the a raven and Sinclair's, highly suggest reading from book one and you will fall in love with the families just as we all have. Dorrie and Ash's story begins with with a life saved. Any fan of this series knows what this means. This family has a way of dragging you in as Ash finds out and you never wish to leave. As much as you will enjoy the love laughter and tears of this story you will be sad to see it end. Looking forward to the next story and I hope the author locates more family members that Ned a story, because her fans do not want the series to end.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
July 9, 2022
Dorrie is feeling a little sorry for herself facing the prospect of her twin’s wedding. A new case to investigate should be just the thing to perk her right up, until she saves the life of another lost Raven. I love the Sinclair and Raven families so very much. This book simply reminded me why I enjoy having a front row seat to the circus that surrounds them. They’re such unusual examples of the times they live in, and Ash must come to terms with what it means to suddenly be family to these unconventional aristocrats. Like her twin, Dorrie is a fierce little thing and she’s more than prepared to wade into the fray to do battle at the sides of her family. She’s known love for her whole life, but Ash has only known pain and heartbreak for so long. Together, they provide balance for one another and the calm port both feel they’ve been missing. I may have only just finished reading this story, but already I can’t wait to get my hands on the author’s next book.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
Profile Image for Wendy Tavenner.
1,315 reviews12 followers
July 13, 2022
He is worthy of love

Another exceptional book by Wendy Vella. I absolutely loved Dorrie and Ash’s story. He came back to England to tell his brother that their father betrayed them. The man he has been hunting for years is after him. He is then shot and saved by Dorrie. Dorrie felt something when she saves a man but knows she’ll never see him again.
When they meet again weeks later at her sisters wedding to Ash’s brother Gus she is stunned that she saved a Raven.
Another excellent book with a beautiful ending. I have read over 20 books from the author and all the series are wonderful.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews

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