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The Gambler's Daughters #1
A Kiss in the Moonlight
New York Times bestselling author Cathy Maxwell begins a spectacular new series, the Gambler's Daughters. Three aristocratic sisters must use their wits and wiles to make their ways in Regency London...only to learn the path to making a brilliant society marriage isn't easy--especially when Love gets in the way!
To Marry a Duke...
Once there were three Irish sisters--Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise--who had to fend for themselves when their gambler of a father disappeared, leaving them with an unscrupulous cousin. Dara hatches a daring they gamble what little they own to finance a London season. Her to use their looks and their wits to find a duke to marry for each sister!
It seems her crazy plot might work when the sisters are declared the "Incomparables" of the Season. Dukes and lords line up at their door, but bold women and scandal always go hand in hand. Particularly when Dara's plans are challenged by the likes of Michael Brogan, who provokes Dara as much as he tempts her. The handsome, clever, and rising politician is definitely not a duke, but he's determined to teach her about ambition, men, and, above all, love, making Dara wonder if her plans are about to change.
To Marry a Duke...
Once there were three Irish sisters--Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise--who had to fend for themselves when their gambler of a father disappeared, leaving them with an unscrupulous cousin. Dara hatches a daring they gamble what little they own to finance a London season. Her to use their looks and their wits to find a duke to marry for each sister!
It seems her crazy plot might work when the sisters are declared the "Incomparables" of the Season. Dukes and lords line up at their door, but bold women and scandal always go hand in hand. Particularly when Dara's plans are challenged by the likes of Michael Brogan, who provokes Dara as much as he tempts her. The handsome, clever, and rising politician is definitely not a duke, but he's determined to teach her about ambition, men, and, above all, love, making Dara wonder if her plans are about to change.
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2023
58 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Maxwell
71 books2,192 followersCATHY MAXWELL spends hours in front of her computer pondering the question, "Why do people fall in love?" It remains for her the mystery of life and the secret to happiness.
She lives in the Austin, TX area where she is having the time of her life.
Visit her on Instagram, Twitter, FB, and TikTok at maxwellcathy (Yes, some other Cathy Maxwell nabbed the handle. However, she does own www.cathymaxwell.com and she'd love for you to swing by.)
She lives in the Austin, TX area where she is having the time of her life.
Visit her on Instagram, Twitter, FB, and TikTok at maxwellcathy (Yes, some other Cathy Maxwell nabbed the handle. However, she does own www.cathymaxwell.com and she'd love for you to swing by.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
April 6, 2023
Historical romance set in 1800s London centers around three Irish sisters looking to marry after the disappearance and presumed death of their father. The most unlikely of the three does find love and marriage. The book ends on a cliffhanger involving one of the other sisters. This is a charming easy read perfect for chilling out before bedtime.
September 11, 2023
I enjoyed this, but I definitely needed way more development of the romance!! There was so much going on that it took away moments for them to really talk and spend time with each other. I don’t really think they spent long enough together or proved otherwise that they loved each other. They got along and liked each other, but their marriage is a mystery to me.
I’m currently reading book two, which I’m enjoying greatly and there’s WAY more on the page time between the couple and I’m thriving. I enjoy Maxwell’s writing and was happy to see there were still sex scenes...I just get scared picking up a new author lol.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
I’m currently reading book two, which I’m enjoying greatly and there’s WAY more on the page time between the couple and I’m thriving. I enjoy Maxwell’s writing and was happy to see there were still sex scenes...I just get scared picking up a new author lol.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
January 16, 2023
Desperate to chance their fortunes, three sisters gamble their savings to try their luck at a London season. Middle sister Dara Lanscarr believes her plan for a better life for her sisters is working, until MP Michael Brogan, a rising politician, gets in the way and turns her youngest sister's head. In the process of trying to ward him off, the two find their futures intertwined.
This is the first story in the Gambler's Daughter series. For me, it fell into the "first book trap" of trying to cram too much into a single book and felt more like an entire season of a television show than a focused romance. Depending on the reader, this might be a good or bad thing.
Sisters Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise have to get away from their guardian cousin who took over their house after their father's presumed death. Middle sister Dara comes up with a crazy plan to pool their remaining money and go to London to try to find matches (even though they have little to no connections). Oldest sister Gwendolyn takes the money and tries to expand it by gambling, but the dealer is a cheat. She is rescued by a mystery man, and I actually felt like Gwendolyn and the man were going to be the main couple. I am guessing they will probably be the couple for book three.
When they finally get to town and eventually do get a random invite, that’s when it starts to be about the actual main couple: Dara and Michael. Even then, there is an insufferable younger sister in the way, and she develops a crush on Michael. There was also a political investigation plot happening. Because the story had so much going on, it was entertaining and a fairly quick read; but I just didn't feel like Michael and Dara got enough attention.
Tropes: Sibling's Suitor, Enemies to Lovers, Ruined, Spy/Govt Work
Steam: 1.5
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #AKissintheMoonlight #NetGalley
This is the first story in the Gambler's Daughter series. For me, it fell into the "first book trap" of trying to cram too much into a single book and felt more like an entire season of a television show than a focused romance. Depending on the reader, this might be a good or bad thing.
Sisters Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise have to get away from their guardian cousin who took over their house after their father's presumed death. Middle sister Dara comes up with a crazy plan to pool their remaining money and go to London to try to find matches (even though they have little to no connections). Oldest sister Gwendolyn takes the money and tries to expand it by gambling, but the dealer is a cheat. She is rescued by a mystery man, and I actually felt like Gwendolyn and the man were going to be the main couple. I am guessing they will probably be the couple for book three.
When they finally get to town and eventually do get a random invite, that’s when it starts to be about the actual main couple: Dara and Michael. Even then, there is an insufferable younger sister in the way, and she develops a crush on Michael. There was also a political investigation plot happening. Because the story had so much going on, it was entertaining and a fairly quick read; but I just didn't feel like Michael and Dara got enough attention.
Tropes: Sibling's Suitor, Enemies to Lovers, Ruined, Spy/Govt Work
Steam: 1.5
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #AKissintheMoonlight #NetGalley
December 7, 2025
A historical telenovela
This is only my second book by Maxwell. The first was A Scandalous Marriage. It was very Mary Balogh-like in its style.
The writing 🌞
This book's writing was just the same. Except, it didn't match the story one bit. Not that it was badly written, but more like what is happening doesn't match the tone.
This is the best way I can explain it:
Imagine a cloaked figure is slithering down an alley 🦇 They seem to be approaching a person whose back is to them🔪
➜ You want to feel the tension of the situation except, it's the middle of the day, the sun is shinning, the birds are singing and the 'alley' is just a small gap between an inn and a haberdasher in the middle of Peaceville, Nothinghappenstown.
That's how the writing felt. It was too bright to convey any sort of emotion.
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
This is only my second book by Maxwell. The first was A Scandalous Marriage. It was very Mary Balogh-like in its style.
The writing 🌞
This book's writing was just the same. Except, it didn't match the story one bit. Not that it was badly written, but more like what is happening doesn't match the tone.
This is the best way I can explain it:
Imagine a cloaked figure is slithering down an alley 🦇 They seem to be approaching a person whose back is to them🔪
➜ You want to feel the tension of the situation except, it's the middle of the day, the sun is shinning, the birds are singing and the 'alley' is just a small gap between an inn and a haberdasher in the middle of Peaceville, Nothinghappenstown.
That's how the writing felt. It was too bright to convey any sort of emotion.
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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April 3, 2023
I'm giving A Kiss In the Moonlight 3.5 stars rounded up rounded up to 4.
This is the first in a new series with three sisters fleeing their guardian in Ireland to have a season in London. To, of course, find husbands. Book one is Dara's story, and she is the middle sister. She's the one who tries to take care of the others. Sometimes , putting their needs ahead of her own even at times to her detriment.
She finds love with Michael, a man her sister Elise is interested in. This causes a rift between the sisters. I felt that Elise came across as selfish and immature in this, but I'm holding on to hope that she will be redeemed in her story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is the first in a new series with three sisters fleeing their guardian in Ireland to have a season in London. To, of course, find husbands. Book one is Dara's story, and she is the middle sister. She's the one who tries to take care of the others. Sometimes , putting their needs ahead of her own even at times to her detriment.
She finds love with Michael, a man her sister Elise is interested in. This causes a rift between the sisters. I felt that Elise came across as selfish and immature in this, but I'm holding on to hope that she will be redeemed in her story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 10, 2023
Since their father disappeared and their toad of a cousin took possession of their home, the Lanscarr sisters, Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise, have found themselves in a predicament. To prevent them being forced into unwanted positions, Dara proposes they gamble for the money to finance a season in London. Her hope is that with their looks and charm they’ll be able to snag titled husbands despite their lack of fortune.
It seems the scheme is actually working when the sisters are declared the season’s incomparables, but Dara’s plan is challenged by sensible MP Michael Brogan, who she finds irritating and attractive in equal measure. He doesn’t have the title she craves, but Michael is determined to teach Dara a thing or two about London life and men in general, leaving her to question all the plans she made.
I feel like I keep saying this lately, but I’ve got some mixed feelings on this one. I really liked the premise and I’ll continue the rest of the series because of that, but I think this story succumbed to first in series syndrome. There was just too much ground to cover here with getting everything set up that the romance was rather lost. In the first half of the book especially, Dara was annoyingly naïve but also controlling and manipulative of her sisters. She was determined that they go along with her plan and didn’t really listen to what they wanted. Dara and Michael didn’t even get page time together until a quarter of the way through the book. At 29% they still hadn’t had a real conversation beyond her rudely stealing a dance with him from her sister. This scene just made Dara seem even more rude and I was left wondering why in the world she thought she could warn this man away from her sister when there was no reason to. Of course, it was because she had feelings for him herself, but that aspect didn’t feel especially believable just because of the way her behavior came across to me.
Dara was also quite the little snob and for no reason. She wanted her sisters to share in her ambition but continually failed to ask what they wanted. She claimed to have done so much to get herself and her sisters to London, but really all she contributed was the idea and the nagging. It was Gwendolyn’s card playing that provided the funds that ultimately made the move possible and to be honest I was more interested in her interactions with Beckett Steele than in Dara’s with Michael. In fact, for a while it seemed Gwendolyn and Beck would be the MCs of this story. Anyway, I just couldn't understand why Dara was the self-appointed boss of the other two sisters or why she felt so entitled. Even when she was well-meaning, Dara was obnoxious and difficult to like. She continually assumed she knew best, that flaw even foiling some of Michael's high stakes political investigation and likely resulting in a man's demise because she couldn't keep her mouth shut and quit making assumptions about Michael and her sister. All that said, Dara was much more likable in the latter third or so of the book, but I still didn’t get the romance. Apparently, she and Michael bickered a bit and fell in love, but most of this appears to have occurred off page and we don’t see much of it, so it was hard for me to really believe that they had a connection, much less deep, abiding love.
I think Michael and Dara could’ve used more time on the page together, alone. There’s also a bit of political intrigue going on and that just seemed like another thread of the story that didn’t have time for a proper fleshing out because of all the other elements at work here. Most of the time one or both of her sisters is around and while Gwendolyn is likable and their eccentric aunt was both humorous and charming, the younger sister, Elise, was just over the top. She was this annoying spoiled brat of Dara’s creation and that, of course, backfired on Dara. It seems Elise’s story will be next, and I do want to read it just because of how this one ended, but it’s going to take quite a lot of character development for her to become likable for me. This certainly wasn’t terrible by any means, but I didn’t love it the way I wanted to or thought I would. I think there was perhaps just too much going on here.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
It seems the scheme is actually working when the sisters are declared the season’s incomparables, but Dara’s plan is challenged by sensible MP Michael Brogan, who she finds irritating and attractive in equal measure. He doesn’t have the title she craves, but Michael is determined to teach Dara a thing or two about London life and men in general, leaving her to question all the plans she made.
I feel like I keep saying this lately, but I’ve got some mixed feelings on this one. I really liked the premise and I’ll continue the rest of the series because of that, but I think this story succumbed to first in series syndrome. There was just too much ground to cover here with getting everything set up that the romance was rather lost. In the first half of the book especially, Dara was annoyingly naïve but also controlling and manipulative of her sisters. She was determined that they go along with her plan and didn’t really listen to what they wanted. Dara and Michael didn’t even get page time together until a quarter of the way through the book. At 29% they still hadn’t had a real conversation beyond her rudely stealing a dance with him from her sister. This scene just made Dara seem even more rude and I was left wondering why in the world she thought she could warn this man away from her sister when there was no reason to. Of course, it was because she had feelings for him herself, but that aspect didn’t feel especially believable just because of the way her behavior came across to me.
Dara was also quite the little snob and for no reason. She wanted her sisters to share in her ambition but continually failed to ask what they wanted. She claimed to have done so much to get herself and her sisters to London, but really all she contributed was the idea and the nagging. It was Gwendolyn’s card playing that provided the funds that ultimately made the move possible and to be honest I was more interested in her interactions with Beckett Steele than in Dara’s with Michael. In fact, for a while it seemed Gwendolyn and Beck would be the MCs of this story. Anyway, I just couldn't understand why Dara was the self-appointed boss of the other two sisters or why she felt so entitled. Even when she was well-meaning, Dara was obnoxious and difficult to like. She continually assumed she knew best, that flaw even foiling some of Michael's high stakes political investigation and likely resulting in a man's demise because she couldn't keep her mouth shut and quit making assumptions about Michael and her sister. All that said, Dara was much more likable in the latter third or so of the book, but I still didn’t get the romance. Apparently, she and Michael bickered a bit and fell in love, but most of this appears to have occurred off page and we don’t see much of it, so it was hard for me to really believe that they had a connection, much less deep, abiding love.
I think Michael and Dara could’ve used more time on the page together, alone. There’s also a bit of political intrigue going on and that just seemed like another thread of the story that didn’t have time for a proper fleshing out because of all the other elements at work here. Most of the time one or both of her sisters is around and while Gwendolyn is likable and their eccentric aunt was both humorous and charming, the younger sister, Elise, was just over the top. She was this annoying spoiled brat of Dara’s creation and that, of course, backfired on Dara. It seems Elise’s story will be next, and I do want to read it just because of how this one ended, but it’s going to take quite a lot of character development for her to become likable for me. This certainly wasn’t terrible by any means, but I didn’t love it the way I wanted to or thought I would. I think there was perhaps just too much going on here.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
January 9, 2023
This is the start of a trilogy involving three Irish sisters Gwendolyn, Dara and Elise who after their father disappears they have to now fend for themselves and Dara the middle sister hatches a daring plan to get the sisters with their Aunt away from their unscrupulous cousin and to London to see use their looks and wits to marry Dukes. It looks like at least the first part of actually getting invited to society gathering and being declared “incomparables” of the Season is a good start to getting the attention of Dukes and Lords that they need to marry to be solvent. Dara’s plans are challenged by Michael Brogan who is a politician and Irish which is not what she is looking for herself or her sisters but she can’t help but be attracted to him even though at first he seems to like her sister Elise more than her. This was a good start to the trilogy and I can’t wait to see what happens with Elise who the next book will be about.
Thanks to Avon and Netgalley for the complimentary copy of this book in e-book form. All opinions in this review are my own.
Thanks to Avon and Netgalley for the complimentary copy of this book in e-book form. All opinions in this review are my own.
April 17, 2023
I loved the fact that this featured a wily, independent heroine in an unconventional setting. And the hero isn’t a duke!
I can’t wait for the release of the next book in the series!
Full review to come on my blog.
I can’t wait for the release of the next book in the series!
Full review to come on my blog.
February 11, 2023
3 1/2 stars. This author is new to me, and while her writing style is fine, the structure of this book, the tropes, and one of the main characters didn't entice me enough to round up to 4 stars.
The plot starts off well, the first quarter or so focused on one of the three sisters, Gwendolyn, and her interesting encounter with a man named Steele, who helps her win back her losses at a gaming hell. I'm always a sucker for these slightly rough-around-the-edges types, and Gwendolyn is plucky. I was looking forward to more steamy banter and insight into what makes Steele tick.
However, the plot soon after switches gears to focus on another sister, Dara. I sympathized with Dara in places but she wasn't the kind of MFC I usually gravitate toward, being something of a wet blanket and a martyr as the second half of the book proceeds. I did like the young Irish MP, MIchael, she becomes engaged to, and found the skulduggery he's involved in during the last 30% of the book interesting.
As far as tropes go, I'm not crazy about "we must marry dukes" (there really weren't that many handsome, eligible young dukes flitting around at balls) or love triangles involving family members. And I really didn't like the attitude of Elise, the youngest sister, who goes from being semi-tolerably immature to making nasty accusations toward Dara just because she'd hoped to win Michael's hand. She put me off, and I don't feel the urge to read the next entry in the series, which will feature her.
I wish the author had plotted this out differently, focusing on the aspects that work and culling out the rest. This book feels like an unfinished novella was tacked on to a finished one, and they were both awkwardly put together. Too much ground is covered, and it makes everything feel rather rushed, including the post-marital steam between Dara and Michael.
Overall: the individual parts are better than the whole.
I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and Net Galley for this opportunity.
The plot starts off well, the first quarter or so focused on one of the three sisters, Gwendolyn, and her interesting encounter with a man named Steele, who helps her win back her losses at a gaming hell. I'm always a sucker for these slightly rough-around-the-edges types, and Gwendolyn is plucky. I was looking forward to more steamy banter and insight into what makes Steele tick.
However, the plot soon after switches gears to focus on another sister, Dara. I sympathized with Dara in places but she wasn't the kind of MFC I usually gravitate toward, being something of a wet blanket and a martyr as the second half of the book proceeds. I did like the young Irish MP, MIchael, she becomes engaged to, and found the skulduggery he's involved in during the last 30% of the book interesting.
As far as tropes go, I'm not crazy about "we must marry dukes" (there really weren't that many handsome, eligible young dukes flitting around at balls) or love triangles involving family members. And I really didn't like the attitude of Elise, the youngest sister, who goes from being semi-tolerably immature to making nasty accusations toward Dara just because she'd hoped to win Michael's hand. She put me off, and I don't feel the urge to read the next entry in the series, which will feature her.
I wish the author had plotted this out differently, focusing on the aspects that work and culling out the rest. This book feels like an unfinished novella was tacked on to a finished one, and they were both awkwardly put together. Too much ground is covered, and it makes everything feel rather rushed, including the post-marital steam between Dara and Michael.
Overall: the individual parts are better than the whole.
I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and Net Galley for this opportunity.
January 1, 2023
It's been said that historical romance, especially regency-era historical romance, is a form of fantasy literature where the world-building has already happened, with established rules and practices agreed upon by authors and readers in advance. The predictability of regency romance is comforting, but it's refreshing when an author brings something different to a story, as Cathy Maxwell does in A Kiss in the Moonlight.
While this story has the oft-seen scenario of young women in London seeking success on the Marriage Mart, this story follows three impoverished, Irish young women who are a breath away from being married off by a greedy cousin. The daughters of a sea captain turned gambler who is presumed dead fund their trip to London by betting at the faro table in a Dublin gambling hell. They are "gentlewomen," but they have no connections and none of the material goods expected of women participating in the Season. Once in London, they experience the ups and downs of society, being on the outs, then in, out again, and then in one more time. Each sister is unique and interesting, but a chaperone aunt, staff, and several suiters become interesting secondary characters as the story unfolds.
In this book, the middle sister, Dara, finds her match, but the oldest and youngest, Gwendolyn and Elise, are essential to the story. This is also a little different, as many romance series follow siblings, but most have the non-lead characters fall into the background. This is a story of all three sisters and while there is a happily ever after for Dara, Elise is left devastated and the epilogue includes a cliffhanger for her story. I'm not sure how Dara and Gwendolyn will be included in the next installment, but I'm eager to read it!
While this story has the oft-seen scenario of young women in London seeking success on the Marriage Mart, this story follows three impoverished, Irish young women who are a breath away from being married off by a greedy cousin. The daughters of a sea captain turned gambler who is presumed dead fund their trip to London by betting at the faro table in a Dublin gambling hell. They are "gentlewomen," but they have no connections and none of the material goods expected of women participating in the Season. Once in London, they experience the ups and downs of society, being on the outs, then in, out again, and then in one more time. Each sister is unique and interesting, but a chaperone aunt, staff, and several suiters become interesting secondary characters as the story unfolds.
In this book, the middle sister, Dara, finds her match, but the oldest and youngest, Gwendolyn and Elise, are essential to the story. This is also a little different, as many romance series follow siblings, but most have the non-lead characters fall into the background. This is a story of all three sisters and while there is a happily ever after for Dara, Elise is left devastated and the epilogue includes a cliffhanger for her story. I'm not sure how Dara and Gwendolyn will be included in the next installment, but I'm eager to read it!
June 8, 2023
OK, this was one of those romances that you start reading and, quite frankly, you can't put down. Well done.
I enjoyed the premise -- of course, I always enjoy strong and opinionated female characters -- and the underlying intrigue. Plus the three sisters are each interesting and I'm pretty sure I will want to read the saga of each one's journey.
Rated it a 5 star, because it was a one sitting read. Warning: don't start reading this late at night, because you may keep reading, like I did.
I enjoyed the premise -- of course, I always enjoy strong and opinionated female characters -- and the underlying intrigue. Plus the three sisters are each interesting and I'm pretty sure I will want to read the saga of each one's journey.
Rated it a 5 star, because it was a one sitting read. Warning: don't start reading this late at night, because you may keep reading, like I did.
December 11, 2023
I reviewed this title for Fresh Fiction. My review can be found at the following link: https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
April 26, 2023
2.5 stars - Historical Romance
March 28, 2023
A really cute start to the series!
Three Irish sisters, Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise, left with nothing after their father's disappearance, hatch a plan to go to London for the Season to try to marry Dukes. Dara, the middle sister, makes all the plans, writes down all the rules for respectable ladies, and makes lists of all the available suitors, but she doesn't account for her younger sister falling for a charming MP Michael Brogan. And she doesn't account for her falling for him as well.
Things to look forward to:
-teasing and bickering
-passionate kisses in gardens
-daring rescues of children
-tight sister dynamics
-being caught in compromising positions
-a dash of murder and intrigue
I really loved Dara and Michael's relationship. That moment when he realizes that he's in love with her? God I wish I could bottle that up. I really related to Dara's character, they way she always puts others before herself, even if she ends up the one suffering. The Lanscarr sister dynamic was also sweet, but I wish Elise wasn't so immature when it came to Dara and Michael's relationship and marriage. It sort of reminded me of Kate and Edwina's relationship in Bridgerton season 2, a weird jealous love triangle that nobody really wanted. So reading Elise's scenes was a little painful. Her book is next so I hope we will see some sort of redemption arc with her behavior.
This eARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Three Irish sisters, Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise, left with nothing after their father's disappearance, hatch a plan to go to London for the Season to try to marry Dukes. Dara, the middle sister, makes all the plans, writes down all the rules for respectable ladies, and makes lists of all the available suitors, but she doesn't account for her younger sister falling for a charming MP Michael Brogan. And she doesn't account for her falling for him as well.
Things to look forward to:
-teasing and bickering
-passionate kisses in gardens
-daring rescues of children
-tight sister dynamics
-being caught in compromising positions
-a dash of murder and intrigue
I really loved Dara and Michael's relationship. That moment when he realizes that he's in love with her? God I wish I could bottle that up. I really related to Dara's character, they way she always puts others before herself, even if she ends up the one suffering. The Lanscarr sister dynamic was also sweet, but I wish Elise wasn't so immature when it came to Dara and Michael's relationship and marriage. It sort of reminded me of Kate and Edwina's relationship in Bridgerton season 2, a weird jealous love triangle that nobody really wanted. So reading Elise's scenes was a little painful. Her book is next so I hope we will see some sort of redemption arc with her behavior.
This eARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
October 29, 2023
My fellow readers. The writer brings you some entertainment that is one for the money. Don’t we all feel at sometimes we all have a sibling like our dear Dara. That woman seems to have her two cents in everyone’s affair except Aunt Tweedie. I have a feeling that Aunt Tweedie will tell her where to go and how to get there.
This is a telling of three sisters with the intentions of entering noble society. The book shares with their of how the sisters get their and whom they Strung along as their crew. Something tells me these people were begging to return home the first night. I am absolutely enthralled with Mr. Steele. He can be my savior anytime and I would have any plans on turning him away at anytime.
Mr. Steele has is site set on older sister Gwendolyn. His mind may have told him that she was apart of his mission, but his heart had other plans for Gwendolyn. I felt sorry for little sister Elise. To have a middle older sister such as Dara and what she did cause grounds for a huge cat fight. The three sisters story is book held with excitement about romance and the dangers of hunt down thieves that takes from the crown. I enjoyed this often times humerus and enjoyable love story.
I give this story two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. #AKissintheMoonlight #CathyMaxwell #Netgally #Goodreads #Bookbub #HaperCollinsPublisher
This is a telling of three sisters with the intentions of entering noble society. The book shares with their of how the sisters get their and whom they Strung along as their crew. Something tells me these people were begging to return home the first night. I am absolutely enthralled with Mr. Steele. He can be my savior anytime and I would have any plans on turning him away at anytime.
Mr. Steele has is site set on older sister Gwendolyn. His mind may have told him that she was apart of his mission, but his heart had other plans for Gwendolyn. I felt sorry for little sister Elise. To have a middle older sister such as Dara and what she did cause grounds for a huge cat fight. The three sisters story is book held with excitement about romance and the dangers of hunt down thieves that takes from the crown. I enjoyed this often times humerus and enjoyable love story.
I give this story two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. #AKissintheMoonlight #CathyMaxwell #Netgally #Goodreads #Bookbub #HaperCollinsPublisher
February 3, 2023
I had no idea that Ms Maxwell had written over 40 books since 1994 until I was researching to see when the next book to this series would come out.
The Gambler’s Daughters, book one, was a fairly quick read for me. While the three girls’ father (Captain Sir John) was presumed dead, the girls run away from an arranged marriage to find their own husbands in London. The middle sister, Dara, is the brains of the group who thought up the plan. The oldest, Gwendolyn, and the youngest, Elise, are the knockout beauties. In London they encounter jealousy (even between sisters), scandal, some intrigue, and several attractive men who they deem unsuitable.
I loved that the sisters were so close, but didn’t like that Elise was so spoiled by always getting what she wanted that she would ruin Dara’s future. I thought that Dara would be honest with Elise (and not keep her feelings hidden) when she was always brutally open with others. I was hoping for more steamy scenes with each individual sister and I’m looking forward to books about the two remaining sisters.
I received a free copy of the book in advance and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Gambler’s Daughters, book one, was a fairly quick read for me. While the three girls’ father (Captain Sir John) was presumed dead, the girls run away from an arranged marriage to find their own husbands in London. The middle sister, Dara, is the brains of the group who thought up the plan. The oldest, Gwendolyn, and the youngest, Elise, are the knockout beauties. In London they encounter jealousy (even between sisters), scandal, some intrigue, and several attractive men who they deem unsuitable.
I loved that the sisters were so close, but didn’t like that Elise was so spoiled by always getting what she wanted that she would ruin Dara’s future. I thought that Dara would be honest with Elise (and not keep her feelings hidden) when she was always brutally open with others. I was hoping for more steamy scenes with each individual sister and I’m looking forward to books about the two remaining sisters.
I received a free copy of the book in advance and am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2023
It's a lot going on in this lovely novel. We see the inside story of 3 beautiful but poor ladies: Gwendolyn, Dara, Elise, (and Tweedie, their widowed great Aunt who has had 3 husbands).
They sceme a way to London for a debut season. Two of the sisters are wildly popular. All 3 are extremely tight knit.
Dara is infuriating. She's a female Napolean hypocrite. I skipped a lot of pages with her ranting and bullying behavior.
The author does a great job narrating a beautiful story. She remarkably writes in a lot of characters and she does it well.
Steele and Brogan are the love interests. Brogan grates on my nerves as he switches affections and acts willy-nilly, in my opinion.
I love Steele, Gwen, Gram, and Elise the best. So, I give it 2.5 Stars when I really wanted to give it 6.
I would like to read the continual stories of Gwen and Elise.
They sceme a way to London for a debut season. Two of the sisters are wildly popular. All 3 are extremely tight knit.
Dara is infuriating. She's a female Napolean hypocrite. I skipped a lot of pages with her ranting and bullying behavior.
The author does a great job narrating a beautiful story. She remarkably writes in a lot of characters and she does it well.
Steele and Brogan are the love interests. Brogan grates on my nerves as he switches affections and acts willy-nilly, in my opinion.
I love Steele, Gwen, Gram, and Elise the best. So, I give it 2.5 Stars when I really wanted to give it 6.
I would like to read the continual stories of Gwen and Elise.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
2.5 stars
Pretty pedestrian, although competently written. Strangely, the author has made the three sisters who feature prominently in this book (and series, presumably) unlikeable. The oldest makes a deal for a stake in a gambling den then, once she wins, reneges on the deal she made. The middle sister knocks the man unconscious, then all three leave him lying in the street to be robbed, beaten, or killed. The middle sister tries to control everyone and everything, and the youngest is a spoiled, immature brat who has a tantrum when a man likes her sister more than her. All this is wrapped up in a weak mystery plot involving treason and murder.
This was my first book by this author and I probably won’t read another.
Pretty pedestrian, although competently written. Strangely, the author has made the three sisters who feature prominently in this book (and series, presumably) unlikeable. The oldest makes a deal for a stake in a gambling den then, once she wins, reneges on the deal she made. The middle sister knocks the man unconscious, then all three leave him lying in the street to be robbed, beaten, or killed. The middle sister tries to control everyone and everything, and the youngest is a spoiled, immature brat who has a tantrum when a man likes her sister more than her. All this is wrapped up in a weak mystery plot involving treason and murder.
This was my first book by this author and I probably won’t read another.
November 5, 2023
Me 🤝 a 4⭐️ review
Was it perfect? No. Did I read it in one day? Yes. Four stars seems like a good compromise. (Also the audiobook is narrated by Justine Eyre, and I could listen to her read the phone book, but I digress).
You’re introduced to the three Irish sisters (Gwen, Dara, and Elise) and their plan to make it to London for the Season. There’re disguises, gambling, sibling rivalry, murder, and treason all packed into this enemies to lovers that’s more of a will they, won’t theyand makes it a quick read.
The real question. Will I be reading the next one? Yes.Probably. If I remember when it comes out 🫣
Was it perfect? No. Did I read it in one day? Yes. Four stars seems like a good compromise. (Also the audiobook is narrated by Justine Eyre, and I could listen to her read the phone book, but I digress).
You’re introduced to the three Irish sisters (Gwen, Dara, and Elise) and their plan to make it to London for the Season. There’re disguises, gambling, sibling rivalry, murder, and treason all packed into this enemies to lovers that’s more of a will they, won’t theyand makes it a quick read.
The real question. Will I be reading the next one? Yes.
April 22, 2023
The story is set in 1817 in London. It is the story of three sisters who decide to go to London to find husbands. This book is about Dara, the middle sister, who is the determined one with the plan for London. However she soon finds that all is not as easy as she thought it would be. The book was an easy read.
November 16, 2024
This is by an author I enjoy and is a series I have not read. How unusual for me these days. I enjoyed the personality of the three daughters. The fact that the youngest annoyed me speaks to her humanity. The men are a bit pablum, but they are fantasy boyfriends after all.
March 29, 2023
I reviewed this title for Fresh Fiction. My review can be found at the following link: https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
January 4, 2023
I always liked Cathy Maxwell’s books. This is a classic tale of a woman, Dara, hatching a plan to get her and her sisters away from their provincial Irish backwater and the pinchpenny relatives trying to pawn them off to a bunch of distasteful oafish suitors. They are off to the Marriage Mart in London.
At their first ball in London the sisters are introduced to Michael, a Member of Parliament but definitely not a Duke. Worse, he’s an Irishman like them. To thwart his obvious interest in her little sister Dara outmaneuvers his attempts to court the gorgeous Elise. But the tables are turned as Michael and Dara start to fall for one another.
Dara is a wonderful heroine. She guards and guides her sisters. She is fierce in her protectiveness. Always looking out for her sisters, she is plucky and admirably crafty. She’s also a bit controlling as a result. But things begin to go awry as she continues to fall for Elise’s object of desire, Michael.
Dara knows a highborn gentleman is necessary to get them out of genteel poverty and to give them a chance at self-determination. She just can’t risk less and sacrifice her goals. She may be naive in some ways but not in that desire. She forces Michael to realize that women trading on their looks in the Marriage Mart are no different than most men seeking the most beautiful, the one who inspires lust. She’s great! But she is also not fool enough to not realize that she is deeply attracted to Michael herself and that will likely cause hurt and a rift between her and her younger sister, Elise. She resists.
But Michael won’t be fobbed off so easily. He admires her busy, intelligent, intriguing mind. Michael is a rising star, a liberal, even at times a radical, MP. He is investigating a group suspected of embezzling thousands of pounds from the War Office. And his interest begins to turn from the amazingly gorgeous Elise and toward Dara. We like him the more for it.
Even the secondary characters, the sisters, are well drawn. Elise could easily be written as a caricatured willful bratty younger sister. But Maxwell doesn’t take that shortcut. Elise is redeemed in many scenes such as when she yells at Dara that rather than Simpering Over Callers one afternoon she is going to a salon because she has to have some outlet that allows her To Think. Granted she’s also looking for Michael on whom she has a crush. But still. The third sister Gwendolyn would rather take that afternoon to read. She is weary of the simpering and is willing to call her dear sister out for both her hypocrisies and for trying to keep such a tight rein on herself and Elise.
Most satisfyingly there are brilliant teasers both at the end and at the beginning (unusual) for what is to come in Gwendolyn and Elise’s tales. What fun this trilogy will be. I would highly recommend this to our library patrons.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in return for my honest review.
At their first ball in London the sisters are introduced to Michael, a Member of Parliament but definitely not a Duke. Worse, he’s an Irishman like them. To thwart his obvious interest in her little sister Dara outmaneuvers his attempts to court the gorgeous Elise. But the tables are turned as Michael and Dara start to fall for one another.
Dara is a wonderful heroine. She guards and guides her sisters. She is fierce in her protectiveness. Always looking out for her sisters, she is plucky and admirably crafty. She’s also a bit controlling as a result. But things begin to go awry as she continues to fall for Elise’s object of desire, Michael.
Dara knows a highborn gentleman is necessary to get them out of genteel poverty and to give them a chance at self-determination. She just can’t risk less and sacrifice her goals. She may be naive in some ways but not in that desire. She forces Michael to realize that women trading on their looks in the Marriage Mart are no different than most men seeking the most beautiful, the one who inspires lust. She’s great! But she is also not fool enough to not realize that she is deeply attracted to Michael herself and that will likely cause hurt and a rift between her and her younger sister, Elise. She resists.
But Michael won’t be fobbed off so easily. He admires her busy, intelligent, intriguing mind. Michael is a rising star, a liberal, even at times a radical, MP. He is investigating a group suspected of embezzling thousands of pounds from the War Office. And his interest begins to turn from the amazingly gorgeous Elise and toward Dara. We like him the more for it.
Even the secondary characters, the sisters, are well drawn. Elise could easily be written as a caricatured willful bratty younger sister. But Maxwell doesn’t take that shortcut. Elise is redeemed in many scenes such as when she yells at Dara that rather than Simpering Over Callers one afternoon she is going to a salon because she has to have some outlet that allows her To Think. Granted she’s also looking for Michael on whom she has a crush. But still. The third sister Gwendolyn would rather take that afternoon to read. She is weary of the simpering and is willing to call her dear sister out for both her hypocrisies and for trying to keep such a tight rein on herself and Elise.
Most satisfyingly there are brilliant teasers both at the end and at the beginning (unusual) for what is to come in Gwendolyn and Elise’s tales. What fun this trilogy will be. I would highly recommend this to our library patrons.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in return for my honest review.
March 16, 2023
This was a new to me author and I thought this book was enjoyable. It had several POV’s, a group of sisters, and an Irish political hero. Dara is the middle sister. She’s strong, outgoing, opinionated, and bookish. Dara wants her sisters and herself to have a season in hopes of finding wealthy husbands. So needing money to even start their season, Gwyn(oldest sister) gambles for more money for them….except she meets a man whom she has an attraction too. He lends Gwyn the money she needs for gambling and in return will seek a favor. Once in London, Dara meets Michael Brogan, though they don’t start off on the right foot. Dara thinks he is attractive and Michael only sees one of her sisters. So one day Dara saves a child from drowning, causing quite a stir & possible scandal if she doesn’t marry Michael! These two have good chemistry and work well together. There’s also a murder mystery on the side! I just thought this one was kind of all over the place for me. And too many POV ‘s for my personal tastes. Not to say some one else might really like this one! I was given an advanced copy for my review.
March 20, 2023
The Lanscarr sisters have always relied on each other, especially now that their grandmother has passed away and their father has gone missing and is presumed dead. Living as poor relations in their own home thanks to an overreaching cousin who has claimed the estate as his inheritance. Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise along with Lady Eleanor their elderly widowed aunt “Tweedie” know that their cousin wants to marry them off and get them out of the house, the girls are not opposed to marriage, but they want more than the rural Irish countryside has to offer. When Dara suggests they try their luck in London, Gwen and Elise are skeptical, but as always, Dara has a plan! Dara convinces them that if they go to London that they will have their choice of husbands since even though they are penniless, Gwen and Elise are gorgeous and will have no trouble attracting eligible suitors. They just need to get enough money to get to London and rent a house for the season and for that she suggests that Gwen go to Dublin and gamble at one of their father’s haunts to make the money. After a bit of misadventure, Gwen does get the money and they set their plan in motion! But things don’t go as planned when they arrive and find the connection they had hoped to use as an entre to society is not in town. But after a couple of weeks of trying to find an “in” the girls are invited to a ball and it is immediately clear that Dara’s prediction was true. The girls are extremely popular, especially the very lovely Elise. So when fellow Irishman, Michael Brogan, an MP, and a mere mister, tries to dance with her, Dara steps in and warns him off. But is she warning him off because he is not appropriate or because she is jealous?
Michael Brogan isn’t looking to marry, but his investigation of a case of embezzlement in the war office that may have ties to a nobleman, so pretending to court Elise Lanscarr will give him a perfect reason to attend events that he usually avoids, plus dancing with the beautiful Elise is no hardship. However, while the lovely Elise may have captured his eye, it is Dara who holds his interest. He isn’t sure if he wants to kiss her or throttle her – but when things get dangerous, he knows that Dara is the sister he wants by his side and the sister he can’t live without. Now he just needs to catch the embezzler and convince Dara she is the only sister he wants.
I was a little confused at the beginning of this book since it wasn’t clear who the heroine was, but once they get to London and enter society it sorts itself out. I really liked Michael and Dara together, the chemistry between them was clear to see and they really complimented each other. This slow-burn romance is filled with intrigue, passionate kisses, wonderful secondary characters, a love triangle (sort of), a lot of emotion, some surprises, witty banter, and a bittersweet ending that includes a cliffhanger-ish epilogue. The story does a nice job of setting up the series and the mystery was intriguing, so for me, it was a very enjoyable read. In my opinion, the beginning could have been a little clearer and I am not a fan of love triangles, but somehow, the story works and I would be happy to recommend this book and am looking forward to the next installment!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Michael Brogan isn’t looking to marry, but his investigation of a case of embezzlement in the war office that may have ties to a nobleman, so pretending to court Elise Lanscarr will give him a perfect reason to attend events that he usually avoids, plus dancing with the beautiful Elise is no hardship. However, while the lovely Elise may have captured his eye, it is Dara who holds his interest. He isn’t sure if he wants to kiss her or throttle her – but when things get dangerous, he knows that Dara is the sister he wants by his side and the sister he can’t live without. Now he just needs to catch the embezzler and convince Dara she is the only sister he wants.
I was a little confused at the beginning of this book since it wasn’t clear who the heroine was, but once they get to London and enter society it sorts itself out. I really liked Michael and Dara together, the chemistry between them was clear to see and they really complimented each other. This slow-burn romance is filled with intrigue, passionate kisses, wonderful secondary characters, a love triangle (sort of), a lot of emotion, some surprises, witty banter, and a bittersweet ending that includes a cliffhanger-ish epilogue. The story does a nice job of setting up the series and the mystery was intriguing, so for me, it was a very enjoyable read. In my opinion, the beginning could have been a little clearer and I am not a fan of love triangles, but somehow, the story works and I would be happy to recommend this book and am looking forward to the next installment!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
March 27, 2023
This book was hard to put down, but because I did not quite agree with the story. We all have stories that we read and we argue with the book the whole time. It was like this for me.
This review may contain spoilers.
This book starts out with three sisters. Their father has died and left them to the mercies of a distant cousin. The married cousin and his wife are fine with inheriting the title and estate, but the three sisters have to live there also. Their father was a horrible gambler and drained all the money from the estate and left the sisters destitute. They have very little money stock piled away.
The story opens with the younger two sisters running back home because their cousin sent them on an errand so he and the local, widowed squire who had many unruly children, could corner the older sister in the drawing room and the squire could propose marriage. Their cousin was selling each girl off, based on their beauty, to local men who would pay him for them as part of a .marriage settlement. The sisters arrive home in time to stop the proposal and send the squire on their way. At this time, the sisters decide that the oldest, who can count cards, needs to take their meager funds to a local gambling den and raise money to go to London. At this time,the story seems to be about the oldest sister, as the story focuses on her gambling, being taken advantage of and a man who saves her. She is able to raise the funds, but with the help of the mysterious man. Who gets knocked in the head by the middle sister because they think he is accosting her. They get away to London and the story changes to the middle sister. The sisters go to a local assembly and she sees a man and falls in love. However, the youngest sister catches the man's attention and she falls for him also. The majority of this story is about the angst of the middle sister, who is the least attractive. She is not plain or ugly, she is just not as beautiful as her sisters. The man is a barrister investigating and trying to prove treason of a person working for the army who has been skimming money for at least 20 years. And that person is a family member. This man, who is the hero of the story, also meets with the original man who helped the older sisiter with her gambling hall problem.
This story really jumps around from one couple to the next. And with the sisters fighting, I just feel that there was so much drama that the following stories will pale in comparison. I don't want to give any more details, but I have to say, the fighting of the middle and younger sister over the same man was a little over the top. I feel that the youngest sister who has every man following her around and attracted to her, could see that the middle sister would not just fall in love with the same man to spite the younger sister. I feel that the middle sister tried not to love him, but failed and decided it was a love worth fighting for. I give this book 4 stars, and hopefully be able to see how well the stories all wrap up. I have faith in this author. If anyone can finish the series and have them all make sense, it is her. I recommend reading and keeping an open mind.
This review may contain spoilers.
This book starts out with three sisters. Their father has died and left them to the mercies of a distant cousin. The married cousin and his wife are fine with inheriting the title and estate, but the three sisters have to live there also. Their father was a horrible gambler and drained all the money from the estate and left the sisters destitute. They have very little money stock piled away.
The story opens with the younger two sisters running back home because their cousin sent them on an errand so he and the local, widowed squire who had many unruly children, could corner the older sister in the drawing room and the squire could propose marriage. Their cousin was selling each girl off, based on their beauty, to local men who would pay him for them as part of a .marriage settlement. The sisters arrive home in time to stop the proposal and send the squire on their way. At this time, the sisters decide that the oldest, who can count cards, needs to take their meager funds to a local gambling den and raise money to go to London. At this time,the story seems to be about the oldest sister, as the story focuses on her gambling, being taken advantage of and a man who saves her. She is able to raise the funds, but with the help of the mysterious man. Who gets knocked in the head by the middle sister because they think he is accosting her. They get away to London and the story changes to the middle sister. The sisters go to a local assembly and she sees a man and falls in love. However, the youngest sister catches the man's attention and she falls for him also. The majority of this story is about the angst of the middle sister, who is the least attractive. She is not plain or ugly, she is just not as beautiful as her sisters. The man is a barrister investigating and trying to prove treason of a person working for the army who has been skimming money for at least 20 years. And that person is a family member. This man, who is the hero of the story, also meets with the original man who helped the older sisiter with her gambling hall problem.
This story really jumps around from one couple to the next. And with the sisters fighting, I just feel that there was so much drama that the following stories will pale in comparison. I don't want to give any more details, but I have to say, the fighting of the middle and younger sister over the same man was a little over the top. I feel that the youngest sister who has every man following her around and attracted to her, could see that the middle sister would not just fall in love with the same man to spite the younger sister. I feel that the middle sister tried not to love him, but failed and decided it was a love worth fighting for. I give this book 4 stars, and hopefully be able to see how well the stories all wrap up. I have faith in this author. If anyone can finish the series and have them all make sense, it is her. I recommend reading and keeping an open mind.
February 3, 2024
Excellent start to what i am sure will be a wonderful adventure!
The Lanscarr sisters are spunky, smart and resourceful. They are determined to make their lives a success and have meaning. The three of them have a very strong bond, they would do anything for each other. They took control of their lives when they found themselves essentially homeless.
As Irish lasses without concrete connections they find their way into London society and make a splash! They find themselves were they wanted to be, meeting thecright people to make their lives better. But as the season progresses they start to question the lack of substsnce in the people, conversations and activities. They stick to their plan, but there are cracks in their determination.
Dara, the middle and some would say less remarkable sister, is the one who came up with their plan. She keeps them together, she promised their Gram on her death bed. She doesn't see herself as anything, but the midfle sister and I think she thinks herself a frump compared to her lovely sisters. She is determined that they will all marry dukes, until they find that all duke's are old, paunchy, foul breathed men.
Michael Brogan, a fellow Irishman, is a barrister and MP. He is the heir to an earldom, but doesn't use that information to further his life. He discovers the Lanscarr sisters to be engaging, beautiful and enjoys their spunky Irish ways. He and Dara argue and bicker like an old married couple from the start. He enjoys finding ways to engage her that brings fire to her eyes.
The trouble that ultimately brings them together is an example of the lack of substance and common sense that is the ton. Gossip and ineunno bring about ruination that must be rememedied. Then danger in the form of treason, murder and lies brings out the protectiveness in Michael. They find they each bring a sense of hrounding to the other.
Gwendolyn and Elise are wonderful characters and I am excited for their stories! Each has beauty, but it is their other traits that will make great reading. They are cheeky and don't suffer fools lightly. They are smart and don't want to settle for the mundane.
There are a couple of other secondary characters that add humor and edge to the story/series. The girls' aunt Tweedy is hillirious! She is supposed to be their chaperone, but finds the spirits at any social event and at home, to be honest. But she unwittingly knows what is going on and isn't shy abput voicing her opinions. Then there is Mr. Steele, a powerful enigma. He serms to always show up when he can be of assistance or has information of worth. He is one to watch.
I am anxiecuously looking foreward to the rest of this series. I can't wait to see Elise and Gwendolyn get thier HEAs. To see if Tweedy finds number four. To hopefully see more, much more, of Mr. Steele and learn more about who he truly is.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this story from the publisher through Edelweiss. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Lanscarr sisters are spunky, smart and resourceful. They are determined to make their lives a success and have meaning. The three of them have a very strong bond, they would do anything for each other. They took control of their lives when they found themselves essentially homeless.
As Irish lasses without concrete connections they find their way into London society and make a splash! They find themselves were they wanted to be, meeting thecright people to make their lives better. But as the season progresses they start to question the lack of substsnce in the people, conversations and activities. They stick to their plan, but there are cracks in their determination.
Dara, the middle and some would say less remarkable sister, is the one who came up with their plan. She keeps them together, she promised their Gram on her death bed. She doesn't see herself as anything, but the midfle sister and I think she thinks herself a frump compared to her lovely sisters. She is determined that they will all marry dukes, until they find that all duke's are old, paunchy, foul breathed men.
Michael Brogan, a fellow Irishman, is a barrister and MP. He is the heir to an earldom, but doesn't use that information to further his life. He discovers the Lanscarr sisters to be engaging, beautiful and enjoys their spunky Irish ways. He and Dara argue and bicker like an old married couple from the start. He enjoys finding ways to engage her that brings fire to her eyes.
The trouble that ultimately brings them together is an example of the lack of substance and common sense that is the ton. Gossip and ineunno bring about ruination that must be rememedied. Then danger in the form of treason, murder and lies brings out the protectiveness in Michael. They find they each bring a sense of hrounding to the other.
Gwendolyn and Elise are wonderful characters and I am excited for their stories! Each has beauty, but it is their other traits that will make great reading. They are cheeky and don't suffer fools lightly. They are smart and don't want to settle for the mundane.
There are a couple of other secondary characters that add humor and edge to the story/series. The girls' aunt Tweedy is hillirious! She is supposed to be their chaperone, but finds the spirits at any social event and at home, to be honest. But she unwittingly knows what is going on and isn't shy abput voicing her opinions. Then there is Mr. Steele, a powerful enigma. He serms to always show up when he can be of assistance or has information of worth. He is one to watch.
I am anxiecuously looking foreward to the rest of this series. I can't wait to see Elise and Gwendolyn get thier HEAs. To see if Tweedy finds number four. To hopefully see more, much more, of Mr. Steele and learn more about who he truly is.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this story from the publisher through Edelweiss. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 7, 2023
I love Cathy Maxwell's books, and I was really excited to receive A Kiss in the Moonlight as an ARC. Being a huge fan of her writing and loving each new series more than the one before, I had high hopes for this new series and I was not disappointed! A Kiss in the Moonlight is fantastic!
A Kiss in the Moonlight is a great read. It has a lot of themes that I love-- sisters against the world; enemies-to-lovers; men unafraid of women's voices; and strong women. The gambler's sisters are oldest Gwendolyn, middle Dara (the heroine in this one and youngest Elise. Even though Dara is the middle sister, she is the planner of the three and feels responsible to the other two. Gwendolyn is the responsible one who does the work for Dara's plans, and Elise is doted and babied, which causes problems later on. It is a great set-up, and while baby sister Elise may seem spoiled and irritating, Cathy Maxwell does a great job in making those archetypal characters redeemable and for the reader to feel empathy for. In another series there is a similar type of character who I hated in her sister's book, but by her book I loved her so I am super excited for the reset of the series!
I really adored Michael and Dara and they had great chemistry together. I loved the dialogue, it was funny, poignant and so sweet! I just adored them together. Their romance and vulnerabilities were really well written and was just wonderful to read. The story is really well-written, clear and perfect amount of will they/won't they.
If I had one thing that I would have liked even more in this book, it would be to be a bit longer and have more of Michael and Dara's interactions together. I felt like since the series didn't start with her sister Gwendolyn, but she was the oldest sister and some of the buildup starts with her, it seemed like more of the book came from her and who seems like will be her romantic interest's point of view. I would definitely love to read a few more chapters of Michael and Dara settling in and the HEA!
All in all, this is a fantastic new book from Cathy Maxwell and I wholeheartedly recommend to HR fans. I can't wait for the next one!
A Kiss in the Moonlight is a great read. It has a lot of themes that I love-- sisters against the world; enemies-to-lovers; men unafraid of women's voices; and strong women. The gambler's sisters are oldest Gwendolyn, middle Dara (the heroine in this one and youngest Elise. Even though Dara is the middle sister, she is the planner of the three and feels responsible to the other two. Gwendolyn is the responsible one who does the work for Dara's plans, and Elise is doted and babied, which causes problems later on. It is a great set-up, and while baby sister Elise may seem spoiled and irritating, Cathy Maxwell does a great job in making those archetypal characters redeemable and for the reader to feel empathy for. In another series there is a similar type of character who I hated in her sister's book, but by her book I loved her so I am super excited for the reset of the series!
I really adored Michael and Dara and they had great chemistry together. I loved the dialogue, it was funny, poignant and so sweet! I just adored them together. Their romance and vulnerabilities were really well written and was just wonderful to read. The story is really well-written, clear and perfect amount of will they/won't they.
If I had one thing that I would have liked even more in this book, it would be to be a bit longer and have more of Michael and Dara's interactions together. I felt like since the series didn't start with her sister Gwendolyn, but she was the oldest sister and some of the buildup starts with her, it seemed like more of the book came from her and who seems like will be her romantic interest's point of view. I would definitely love to read a few more chapters of Michael and Dara settling in and the HEA!
All in all, this is a fantastic new book from Cathy Maxwell and I wholeheartedly recommend to HR fans. I can't wait for the next one!
March 23, 2023
Dara Lanscarr, Elise, Gwendolyn, daughters of Captain Sir John, Richard Lanscarr, a gambler and scoundrel presumed dead, lived with their grandmother, Katherine Walsh and Tweedie was Gram’s sister, Dame Eleanor Roberson. Each has their own strength and abilities but together they are a force.
Upon team's death cousin Richard and his wife, Caroline, took over the manor. He wants them gone and is not afraid to be underhanded about it.
Data comes up with the idea to have a London season and since Gwendolyn is very good at Faro, she could win the money needed for a season. While playing Dark she meets Beckett Steele. He tells her the dealer is cheating and fronts her money to play in trade for a favor at a future date.
Now in London, they learn the only family is in mourning in the country. So how to get entree into society. It arrives mysteriously, to the first largest ball of the season. While out for a walk in the park, Dara spies a very handsome gentleman, who sees her but the stares at the beautiful sisters. Dara swallows her hurt but allows Elise to fawn over him.
Lady Whitby. Whom they met at the lending library, has intellectual salons, introduces them to the Irish elected MP, Mr Michael Brogan. The man Dara spied.
Who does Brogan choose, how does he end up with her, and who of the sisters is hurt by it? How does he play into the sisters getting notice? How does Steele play into the sisters getting noticed? Who is more shocked by Steele being in London?
Cathy is the master of Regency Romany suspense! she masterfully crafts and blend the marriage mart with a mystery to solve like no others. Her plots give just the right amount of angst with the blending of romance and suspense to solve the mystery. Her characters are bold, strong, and flawed giving a well rounded drama that pulls you along. Her detailed plots keep you trying to guess who the bad guy is and surprise you with the reveal. I love reading read stories! You can't put them down and just want to stay up reading into the night
Upon team's death cousin Richard and his wife, Caroline, took over the manor. He wants them gone and is not afraid to be underhanded about it.
Data comes up with the idea to have a London season and since Gwendolyn is very good at Faro, she could win the money needed for a season. While playing Dark she meets Beckett Steele. He tells her the dealer is cheating and fronts her money to play in trade for a favor at a future date.
Now in London, they learn the only family is in mourning in the country. So how to get entree into society. It arrives mysteriously, to the first largest ball of the season. While out for a walk in the park, Dara spies a very handsome gentleman, who sees her but the stares at the beautiful sisters. Dara swallows her hurt but allows Elise to fawn over him.
Lady Whitby. Whom they met at the lending library, has intellectual salons, introduces them to the Irish elected MP, Mr Michael Brogan. The man Dara spied.
Who does Brogan choose, how does he end up with her, and who of the sisters is hurt by it? How does he play into the sisters getting notice? How does Steele play into the sisters getting noticed? Who is more shocked by Steele being in London?
Cathy is the master of Regency Romany suspense! she masterfully crafts and blend the marriage mart with a mystery to solve like no others. Her plots give just the right amount of angst with the blending of romance and suspense to solve the mystery. Her characters are bold, strong, and flawed giving a well rounded drama that pulls you along. Her detailed plots keep you trying to guess who the bad guy is and surprise you with the reveal. I love reading read stories! You can't put them down and just want to stay up reading into the night
March 20, 2023
A delightful story, full of promise
As the first in what I hope will be three books, this one first focuses on establishing the three sisters - Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise - and their plan to finagle a season in London in order to find husbands after their mother's property is inherited by a selfish, uncaring cousin. There are a lot of moving parts as we follow these three from Ireland to London, which only adds to the depth of the story and the complexity of the characters.
Once they find their way into Society, they each find a bevy of suitors, none more attractive than the MP Michael Brogan, who appears to have set his sights on Elise. Complicating matters is the fact that he seems to have an antagonistic relationship with Dara, the self-appointed gatekeeper for all three, and to give Dara full credit, she does struggle with her attraction to Michael while she also believes him to be unqualified for any of them to marry.
I loved the way the author used Dara's heroic actions to seal her fate with Michael. Michael is also in the middle of an embezzlement investigation, which takes an unexpectedly dangerous turn, putting both his and Dara's lives at risk. I really loved how Michael was very clear in his intentions, especially as he learned more about Dara's character. Their chemistry was undeniable, as was their future together.
Through it all it was easy to see that Dara's love for her sisters superseded all her other considerations, even if one of her sisters couldn't see that yet. I really enjoyed their Aunt Tweedie's contributions and hope to see more of her in future books.
Justice is served, Michael and Dara have a very charming HEA, and we're left with questions about Gwendolyn's future, Steele's unnamed favor, Elise's impetuous plans, and the Ruffian who, it seems, is not quite dead yet. I can't wait to read more in this fascinating series! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
As the first in what I hope will be three books, this one first focuses on establishing the three sisters - Gwendolyn, Dara, and Elise - and their plan to finagle a season in London in order to find husbands after their mother's property is inherited by a selfish, uncaring cousin. There are a lot of moving parts as we follow these three from Ireland to London, which only adds to the depth of the story and the complexity of the characters.
Once they find their way into Society, they each find a bevy of suitors, none more attractive than the MP Michael Brogan, who appears to have set his sights on Elise. Complicating matters is the fact that he seems to have an antagonistic relationship with Dara, the self-appointed gatekeeper for all three, and to give Dara full credit, she does struggle with her attraction to Michael while she also believes him to be unqualified for any of them to marry.
I loved the way the author used Dara's heroic actions to seal her fate with Michael. Michael is also in the middle of an embezzlement investigation, which takes an unexpectedly dangerous turn, putting both his and Dara's lives at risk. I really loved how Michael was very clear in his intentions, especially as he learned more about Dara's character. Their chemistry was undeniable, as was their future together.
Through it all it was easy to see that Dara's love for her sisters superseded all her other considerations, even if one of her sisters couldn't see that yet. I really enjoyed their Aunt Tweedie's contributions and hope to see more of her in future books.
Justice is served, Michael and Dara have a very charming HEA, and we're left with questions about Gwendolyn's future, Steele's unnamed favor, Elise's impetuous plans, and the Ruffian who, it seems, is not quite dead yet. I can't wait to read more in this fascinating series! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
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