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School of Gallantry #2
Lord of Pleasure
Alexander William Baxendale, the earl of Hawksford, used to a very big man. Quite literally. His girth made him only popular with his friends. Despite his weight, he considered his life to be charmed until he meets Miss Charlotte Jane Sutton. He quickly realizes winning the girl of his dreams isn't the same as eating chocolate. When she rejects him and breaks his heart, he decides the best revenge is becoming the man of every woman's dreams. Unfortunately, he creates a name for himself even he isn't ready to embrace. Soon, far more than just Charlotte is knocking on his door. Will he survive his own revenge? He isn't so sure.
324 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
32 people are currently reading
456 people want to read
About the author
Delilah Marvelle
38 books522 followersI spent my youth studying various languages, reading voraciously, and playing the pianoforte. I confess that here ends the extent of my gentle breeding. I was a naughty child who was forever torturing her parents with countless adventures that they did not deem respectable. Confined to my room on many occasions due to these misadventures, I soon discovered the quill and its amazing power. I scribed endless stories that almost invariably surrounded the topic of love, for I felt an inane need to be rescued from a family that did not understand my lust for life. In my mind, King Arthur became my true love and I waited for the day when he would come riding upon his steed and invite me to sit at his round table, not as his queen, but as his knight. To my distress, King Arthur was never to be found anywhere except for in the tip of my quill. And so I led an imaginary life for many, many years. When I finally came of age, my family was further horrified to discover that I had fallen in love with an American. An American King Arthur who became my knight, my husband, my all. I have been blessed beyond reason and am grateful for each day I have with him. What is equally amazing is that I now have the opportunity to share my passion for stories with the public. The reason why I write romance is because it allows me to touch upon the subject of love on a much deeper, more intimate level. Many of the stories I write, many of the stories I will continue to write, will always evolve around love. And yes, gentle readers, it will also evolve around sex as I have no intention of becoming my parents and restraining my characters from what it is they truly desire to do. I challenge you, my readers, to let loose of those corsets that have been strung too tightly due to convention and enjoy 1830 to its fullest."
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July 23, 2015My dearest Reader,
Even if you've read Lord of Pleasure, you're in for a big surprise. Having recently acquired the rights back to this playful, naughty book, I decided to do far more than slap a new cover on it. Having finished writing the entire series, I felt Lord Hawksford was a bit too cocky for his own good. He needed a backstory to go with that cock, so to speak. So I gave him one. Think you know Lord Hawksford? Think again.
This revamped second edition has countless new chapters which were added throughout the book in an effort to make you feel like you're reading it for the first time. What's changed? Almost everything. This new, revamped edition will be available in all digital stores starting August 20th. You can Pre-Order the book now for only .99 cents on Amazon and IBooks. And if you're interested in reading an excerpt of the revamped book, bustle over to my website www.DelilahMarvelle.com and Click on the cover of Lord of Pleasure and read the excerpt. Thank you for being a reader and thank you for giving this series a place on your shelf.
Much love,
Delilah Marvelle
Even if you've read Lord of Pleasure, you're in for a big surprise. Having recently acquired the rights back to this playful, naughty book, I decided to do far more than slap a new cover on it. Having finished writing the entire series, I felt Lord Hawksford was a bit too cocky for his own good. He needed a backstory to go with that cock, so to speak. So I gave him one. Think you know Lord Hawksford? Think again.
This revamped second edition has countless new chapters which were added throughout the book in an effort to make you feel like you're reading it for the first time. What's changed? Almost everything. This new, revamped edition will be available in all digital stores starting August 20th. You can Pre-Order the book now for only .99 cents on Amazon and IBooks. And if you're interested in reading an excerpt of the revamped book, bustle over to my website www.DelilahMarvelle.com and Click on the cover of Lord of Pleasure and read the excerpt. Thank you for being a reader and thank you for giving this series a place on your shelf.
Much love,
Delilah Marvelle
July 15, 2016
An amazing sequel to this splendid series.
Spoiler Free Review:
The first book in the series is excellent and this was a great follow up to that. You can read this one as a standalone since there's no cliffhanger, BUT I highly recommend you read Mistress of Pleasure before as you'll be able to understand some events better and have a more enjoyable experience! The main diference between them is that there's some BDSM and a darker feel to the story - the heroine has a troubled past. I think the hero was too stubborn at times, I started to feel a little annoyed by it in the end.
Delilah delivers incredible dialogue and humor with ease. Can't wait for the next in the series!
Spoiler Free Review:
The first book in the series is excellent and this was a great follow up to that. You can read this one as a standalone since there's no cliffhanger, BUT I highly recommend you read Mistress of Pleasure before as you'll be able to understand some events better and have a more enjoyable experience! The main diference between them is that there's some BDSM and a darker feel to the story - the heroine has a troubled past. I think the hero was too stubborn at times, I started to feel a little annoyed by it in the end.
Delilah delivers incredible dialogue and humor with ease. Can't wait for the next in the series!
June 26, 2013
WHAT A SINFULLY DELECTABLE TREAT! LORD OF PLEASURE WAS JUST THE PERFECT TONIC FOR A COLD, WET MARCH DAY!
It's original, funny, touching and sensual, with a delightful array of quirky, larger-than-life characters who stole my heart.
How I imagine Alex…
A woman could learn to fall in love with a man who not only saw to his family but also offered a struggling woman assistance without making it feel as such.
I know I fell for Alexander (Alex). I love his charm, his wit, his honesty and his protectiveness towards his family and Charlotte. The fact that he is drop-dead gorgeous and just oozes sex appeal, doesn’t hurt either!
How I imagine Charlotte …
Strong-willed. Intelligent. Tough. Yet still made of enough fine porcelain to make her fragile.
I like Charlotte. She’s strong and independent but with a core of vulnerability which makes her all the more endearing. She’s completely alone in the world, after her scoundrel of a husband dies under scandalous circumstances, leaving her penniless. She’s realist enough to believe that her dream of finding the sort of genuine love her parents had shared and a family of her own will never be more than a dream now.
Whilst I love the simmering sexual tension and steamy love scenes between Alex and Charlotte, I also look for moments of deep emotional connection between them. It makes their feelings for each other seem real. There’s one particular scene where they really open up to each other and the emotional connection is so strong.
“You came.” He said it as if she had bestowed him with the greatest of gifts.
♥♥♥♥
Seeing the compassion and tenderness in his eyes made her feel as if a new beginning was possible. And it was a wonderful, warm feeling, to say the least.
There are so many uproariously funny scenes in this book that I’m hard-pressed to pick my favourite. But I do love the scene where Charlotte interviews Alex for entry into the School of Gallantry with its racy, quick witted exchanges and tantalizing sexual tension simmering just beneath the surface. Here’s a snippet from one of their exchanges…
“Do you sheath yourself during your escapades, My Lord? Or is there a chance you could be unclean?”
Alexander genuinely laughed in response. “A man of my experience would never engage in any escapade without sheathing himself. I always come prepared. Rest assured, love, I am clean. Very clean.”
He stood and gestured toward the buttons on his trousers, trying to remain serious, though he felt anything but. “Does the school require proof?”
Of course, there’s much more to this scene but I won’t spoil the fun!
I love the secondary characters; Alex’s outrageous family, otherwise known as the 'Hawksford Misfits', his friend Lord Caldwell, with the mysterious ‘secret’ and, my favourite, Madame de Maintenon.
How I imagine Madame de Maintenon…
Ah, what can I say about the notorious Madame de Maintenon... she’s sexually liberated, delights in flaunting the stuffy rules of society at every turn and, ah yes, such a colourful life she’s led!
“…I once had the honor—and I do mean that—of pleasuring his father.” She eyed her. “And his mother. Though I ask that you keep that to yourself and not tell Maybelle or anyone else.” She winked mischievously and lowered her voice. “I was supposed to be in retirement, but the money was simply too good.”
I’ll let Alex have the final word….
Then she, he, and all of his sisters—and, yes, even his blasted mother—would all live excessively and happily ever after. The way a Hawksford damn well should.
Just as it should be!
If you want a richly entertaining slice of escapism, then LORD OF PLEASURE is just perfect!
VERDICT: FANTASTIC! LOVED IT!
MY RATING: 5/5 Stars
This review is also posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
The School of Gallantry series:
It's original, funny, touching and sensual, with a delightful array of quirky, larger-than-life characters who stole my heart.
How I imagine Alex…
A woman could learn to fall in love with a man who not only saw to his family but also offered a struggling woman assistance without making it feel as such.
I know I fell for Alexander (Alex). I love his charm, his wit, his honesty and his protectiveness towards his family and Charlotte. The fact that he is drop-dead gorgeous and just oozes sex appeal, doesn’t hurt either!
How I imagine Charlotte …
Strong-willed. Intelligent. Tough. Yet still made of enough fine porcelain to make her fragile.
I like Charlotte. She’s strong and independent but with a core of vulnerability which makes her all the more endearing. She’s completely alone in the world, after her scoundrel of a husband dies under scandalous circumstances, leaving her penniless. She’s realist enough to believe that her dream of finding the sort of genuine love her parents had shared and a family of her own will never be more than a dream now.
Whilst I love the simmering sexual tension and steamy love scenes between Alex and Charlotte, I also look for moments of deep emotional connection between them. It makes their feelings for each other seem real. There’s one particular scene where they really open up to each other and the emotional connection is so strong.
“You came.” He said it as if she had bestowed him with the greatest of gifts.
♥♥♥♥
Seeing the compassion and tenderness in his eyes made her feel as if a new beginning was possible. And it was a wonderful, warm feeling, to say the least.
There are so many uproariously funny scenes in this book that I’m hard-pressed to pick my favourite. But I do love the scene where Charlotte interviews Alex for entry into the School of Gallantry with its racy, quick witted exchanges and tantalizing sexual tension simmering just beneath the surface. Here’s a snippet from one of their exchanges…
“Do you sheath yourself during your escapades, My Lord? Or is there a chance you could be unclean?”
Alexander genuinely laughed in response. “A man of my experience would never engage in any escapade without sheathing himself. I always come prepared. Rest assured, love, I am clean. Very clean.”
He stood and gestured toward the buttons on his trousers, trying to remain serious, though he felt anything but. “Does the school require proof?”
Of course, there’s much more to this scene but I won’t spoil the fun!
I love the secondary characters; Alex’s outrageous family, otherwise known as the 'Hawksford Misfits', his friend Lord Caldwell, with the mysterious ‘secret’ and, my favourite, Madame de Maintenon.
How I imagine Madame de Maintenon…
Ah, what can I say about the notorious Madame de Maintenon... she’s sexually liberated, delights in flaunting the stuffy rules of society at every turn and, ah yes, such a colourful life she’s led!
“…I once had the honor—and I do mean that—of pleasuring his father.” She eyed her. “And his mother. Though I ask that you keep that to yourself and not tell Maybelle or anyone else.” She winked mischievously and lowered her voice. “I was supposed to be in retirement, but the money was simply too good.”
I’ll let Alex have the final word….
Then she, he, and all of his sisters—and, yes, even his blasted mother—would all live excessively and happily ever after. The way a Hawksford damn well should.
Just as it should be!
If you want a richly entertaining slice of escapism, then LORD OF PLEASURE is just perfect!
VERDICT: FANTASTIC! LOVED IT!
MY RATING: 5/5 Stars
This review is also posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
The School of Gallantry series:
December 17, 2015
Everyone has their own demons and everyone has their own needs. When you love someone, you have to be what they need. And the School of Gallantry was designed to help men do that. It’s the entire point of the series. The blurb on this book focuses almost entirely on the hero, the Earl of Hawksford, who used to be fat and is still dealing with his issues despite his now attractive form. It spares no time at all for the heroine Charlotte, which meant I walked into this book unprepared for a storyline I would not have chosen to read, had I known what I was getting into.
Hawksford first met Charlotte back when he was fat. She was a shopgirl, desperately in need of money, but she was the first woman to act like she was truly interested in him. They shared a kiss that rocked him to his foundations, but she closed the door to more and disappeared. It was that encounter that inspired him to change. He put the sweets aside and hit the boxing ring, hardening on the inside and out, and becoming a lothario of legend. Until 11 years later, when Charlotte walks back into his life, changing everything once again.
If this were all that the story was about, I think I would have really enjoyed it. But Charlotte’s issues pushed the romance outside of my comfort zone. She was the victim of rape and now needs rape fantasies to turn her on in the bedroom. Her assault is what pushed her away from Hawksford all those years ago, but now she is ready to be honest with him about her past and what she needs now. Only, he doesn’t want to do to her the things she asks for.
The course of the story follows him as he is forced to conform to her “needs.” That is supposed to show his love for her. But I had real issues with this. Why should he have to put his own needs aside? I need a balance in my romance and usually it’s the heroine who has to subvert her needs and bend, but I enjoy it no more when it’s the hero who has to do so. I can’t pretend to understand what the victim of sexual violence needs to feel whole, but everything about their encounters made Hawksford feel… bad. Forcing him to conform is no better than forcing her to conform. Yet, this is the end result he must go to school for.
The sex scenes are not my cuppa tea, but they bother me more knowing they are not Hawksford cuppa tea, either. And I am left wondering what the future of this relationship could look like. Hawksford was already emotionally vulnerable. What about what he needs? It should count for something.
I wish there had been more transparency in the book description. I know that there are readers out there who enjoy this kind of story. But I am not one of them.
*Book provided by author for review
Hawksford first met Charlotte back when he was fat. She was a shopgirl, desperately in need of money, but she was the first woman to act like she was truly interested in him. They shared a kiss that rocked him to his foundations, but she closed the door to more and disappeared. It was that encounter that inspired him to change. He put the sweets aside and hit the boxing ring, hardening on the inside and out, and becoming a lothario of legend. Until 11 years later, when Charlotte walks back into his life, changing everything once again.
If this were all that the story was about, I think I would have really enjoyed it. But Charlotte’s issues pushed the romance outside of my comfort zone. She was the victim of rape and now needs rape fantasies to turn her on in the bedroom. Her assault is what pushed her away from Hawksford all those years ago, but now she is ready to be honest with him about her past and what she needs now. Only, he doesn’t want to do to her the things she asks for.
The course of the story follows him as he is forced to conform to her “needs.” That is supposed to show his love for her. But I had real issues with this. Why should he have to put his own needs aside? I need a balance in my romance and usually it’s the heroine who has to subvert her needs and bend, but I enjoy it no more when it’s the hero who has to do so. I can’t pretend to understand what the victim of sexual violence needs to feel whole, but everything about their encounters made Hawksford feel… bad. Forcing him to conform is no better than forcing her to conform. Yet, this is the end result he must go to school for.
The sex scenes are not my cuppa tea, but they bother me more knowing they are not Hawksford cuppa tea, either. And I am left wondering what the future of this relationship could look like. Hawksford was already emotionally vulnerable. What about what he needs? It should count for something.
I wish there had been more transparency in the book description. I know that there are readers out there who enjoy this kind of story. But I am not one of them.
*Book provided by author for review
October 26, 2015
Alexander William Baxendale, the earl of Hawksford uses food as a comfort from all the chaos in his household while he was growing up. His parents were in completion of how many lovers each other had. It was not a very good example in how he views relationships. When Alexander finally meets a woman he is interested in. He feels he is not good enough because he is overweight. Therefore, he goes and changes himself. When he was ready for her. She married someone else. There are so much misunderstanding on both sides of the story. You really want to cheer for them. I really like this second installment of the School of Gallantry Series. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher thru NetGalley for an honest review. This fact has no effect on my review in anyway.
December 13, 2015
This book is a second release and I was able to read it the first time around but also wanted to read it again. I love Delilah Marvelle wirting and I loved this book before. I found that besides giving it a fresher look on the cover they have added to the story from when I last read it. I was so excited to read the new things that were added.
Our hero, Alexander William Baxendale, the earl of Hawksford who is very different then most heroes in the fact that he is pretty much out of shape and has a weight issue at the beginning of this story. He falls in love with a shop girl, our heroine, Charlotte Jane Sutton. Charlotte has had a really hard life and is having to do scams to get money to help her and some other people. Charlotte is intrigued by Alexander and finds that she cannot make herself scam him...only be honest with him instead. Her honesty is kind of hurtful in a way to Alexander and with him feeling his weight issue..does not have the confidence to really know how to handle her and her ways. This starts how they over time come to a place of better understand and love. The love scenes where hot and great and they whole story was so moving. I loved this book and the author and hope that you will too!
Our hero, Alexander William Baxendale, the earl of Hawksford who is very different then most heroes in the fact that he is pretty much out of shape and has a weight issue at the beginning of this story. He falls in love with a shop girl, our heroine, Charlotte Jane Sutton. Charlotte has had a really hard life and is having to do scams to get money to help her and some other people. Charlotte is intrigued by Alexander and finds that she cannot make herself scam him...only be honest with him instead. Her honesty is kind of hurtful in a way to Alexander and with him feeling his weight issue..does not have the confidence to really know how to handle her and her ways. This starts how they over time come to a place of better understand and love. The love scenes where hot and great and they whole story was so moving. I loved this book and the author and hope that you will too!
October 18, 2015
Originally published at Rookie Romance.
It's finally time for Hawksford's story. I've read and enjoyed the rest of the School of Gallantry series and I've come full circle after originally starting with book 3, Lady of Pleasure. After reading the first book in the series my appetite was certainly whet in preparation for Hawksford's story after all the titbits we were fed. I couldn't wait to find out the story between Hawksford and Charlotte; it promised to be an interesting one and it certainly was.
Hawksford has developed quite the reputation for himself as a ladies man but it wasn't always like that. He used to have issues with his weight and found that that certainly didn't help with the ladies, apart from one woman who genuinely seems interested in him as a man rather than for his money and title. Now though Hawksford is trying to clean up his act in order to help the reputations of his sisters as they approach the marriage market. Everything changes when he crosses paths again with that particular lady who sparked so much interest in his younger years and he becomes determined to finally make her his.
Charlotte makes for an interesting heroine. She's had a difficult life after being abused by her former suitor and an unsatisfying marriage to a man who didn't understand her. She's a strong woman who is determined to live life on her room terms but she struggles with the dark secret that mars her potential relationship with Hawksford. Her sexual needs proved to be an obstacle which the couple would have to work through together to finally find happiness with each other.
I do love the relationship between Charlotte and Hawksford. They have a comfortable ease with each other that just shows how much they belong together and I love the flirtatious banter between them. They also have a tumultuous chemistry which serves to entertain and delight as their relationship progresses.
Delilah Marvelle once again tackles delicate and difficult issues, particularly when it comes to the bedroom, with a finesse that makes the reader think and brings a new intimacy to the relationship between our heroine and hero. The needs that Charlotte has can't be pushed aside and they must work through them to help heal her wounds from the past. Hawksford doesn't understand her needs and relies on Madame de Maitenon's invaluable aid in coming to understand Charlotte and be able to truly satisfy her.
I really enjoyed Charlotte and Hawksford's story. They had a really light hearted and fun romance at times, that could take a surprising darker turn unexpectedly. It certainly keeps the reader on their toes and I felt so engaged with the story. This might be the end of the School of Gallantry for me (until I re-read of course) but it's been a fun journey and one I couldn't recommend more!
*I received a review copy from the author for my honest opinion. Thank you!
It's finally time for Hawksford's story. I've read and enjoyed the rest of the School of Gallantry series and I've come full circle after originally starting with book 3, Lady of Pleasure. After reading the first book in the series my appetite was certainly whet in preparation for Hawksford's story after all the titbits we were fed. I couldn't wait to find out the story between Hawksford and Charlotte; it promised to be an interesting one and it certainly was.
Hawksford has developed quite the reputation for himself as a ladies man but it wasn't always like that. He used to have issues with his weight and found that that certainly didn't help with the ladies, apart from one woman who genuinely seems interested in him as a man rather than for his money and title. Now though Hawksford is trying to clean up his act in order to help the reputations of his sisters as they approach the marriage market. Everything changes when he crosses paths again with that particular lady who sparked so much interest in his younger years and he becomes determined to finally make her his.
Charlotte makes for an interesting heroine. She's had a difficult life after being abused by her former suitor and an unsatisfying marriage to a man who didn't understand her. She's a strong woman who is determined to live life on her room terms but she struggles with the dark secret that mars her potential relationship with Hawksford. Her sexual needs proved to be an obstacle which the couple would have to work through together to finally find happiness with each other.
I do love the relationship between Charlotte and Hawksford. They have a comfortable ease with each other that just shows how much they belong together and I love the flirtatious banter between them. They also have a tumultuous chemistry which serves to entertain and delight as their relationship progresses.
Delilah Marvelle once again tackles delicate and difficult issues, particularly when it comes to the bedroom, with a finesse that makes the reader think and brings a new intimacy to the relationship between our heroine and hero. The needs that Charlotte has can't be pushed aside and they must work through them to help heal her wounds from the past. Hawksford doesn't understand her needs and relies on Madame de Maitenon's invaluable aid in coming to understand Charlotte and be able to truly satisfy her.
I really enjoyed Charlotte and Hawksford's story. They had a really light hearted and fun romance at times, that could take a surprising darker turn unexpectedly. It certainly keeps the reader on their toes and I felt so engaged with the story. This might be the end of the School of Gallantry for me (until I re-read of course) but it's been a fun journey and one I couldn't recommend more!
*I received a review copy from the author for my honest opinion. Thank you!
August 29, 2015
Alexander William Baxendale, the earl of Hawksford, has always had a problem with his weight. After one too many heartbreaks, the most damaging of them all from Miss Charlotte Jane Sutton, Alexander decides to make a huge change in his life. Alex decides that the best way to avenge himself is to become what the world wants him to be and then show them how it feels to be unwanted!
But what is Alexander supposed to do when his best laid plans begin to fall apart and the wall he built around his heart is not strong enough to keep Miss Charlotte Jane Sutton out? Read and find out!
I received this book as an ARC from Net galley for my honest review.
I don't know how Delilah Marvelle does it but she makes historical romance funny and hot while keeping the story relevant to the era it represents!
I don't know why but when I think about historical romances I envision a female wallflower or spinster character and their struggle with being overweight or old, but I have never read a book where the man is the one that is having hard a time. I mean wow, I was blown away because Delilah held no punches, she showed that the struggle is very real no matter what year you live in.
Now when I read books I am usually all "girl power" mode and ready to be on the female characters side but Alexander had me at hello! My first tear was shed for him in the beginning of the book with how he was treated and how quickly things got out of hand between him and Jane. Don't get me wrong Jane was a great character with enough going on that you want to hold her hand until she feels better but Alex stole my heart.
If you have not read this series before you will quickly figure out that all of the books in this series are occurring at the same time. These characters are somehow interacting with each other due to this school of gallantry and some will make new friends and others may make enemies but either way their lives will be changed.
If you can not tell I really like this book and love this series. This series can be read in or out of order and for some reason this book is selling right now for .99 on Kindle Amazon... which is a steal so get it while it is hot!!!
But what is Alexander supposed to do when his best laid plans begin to fall apart and the wall he built around his heart is not strong enough to keep Miss Charlotte Jane Sutton out? Read and find out!
I received this book as an ARC from Net galley for my honest review.
I don't know how Delilah Marvelle does it but she makes historical romance funny and hot while keeping the story relevant to the era it represents!
I don't know why but when I think about historical romances I envision a female wallflower or spinster character and their struggle with being overweight or old, but I have never read a book where the man is the one that is having hard a time. I mean wow, I was blown away because Delilah held no punches, she showed that the struggle is very real no matter what year you live in.
Now when I read books I am usually all "girl power" mode and ready to be on the female characters side but Alexander had me at hello! My first tear was shed for him in the beginning of the book with how he was treated and how quickly things got out of hand between him and Jane. Don't get me wrong Jane was a great character with enough going on that you want to hold her hand until she feels better but Alex stole my heart.
If you have not read this series before you will quickly figure out that all of the books in this series are occurring at the same time. These characters are somehow interacting with each other due to this school of gallantry and some will make new friends and others may make enemies but either way their lives will be changed.
If you can not tell I really like this book and love this series. This series can be read in or out of order and for some reason this book is selling right now for .99 on Kindle Amazon... which is a steal so get it while it is hot!!!
April 24, 2018
Delilah managed to make an already wonderful story even more fantastic. Not only does it have a new cover but she added a backstory to the beginning of the book so that the reader has more intimate knowledge of Charlotte and Alexander. Learning how they met and what inspired Alex to lose weight and get in shape was a perfect way to get more involved with their story and it really draws you in. If you've read the first one, I believe you love this one just as much of not more. If you haven't had the privilege of reading Delilah Marvelle's Pleasure series, this is a great start. Each book can be read as a stand alone or in series order.
April 7, 2010
A delightful light sometimes witty read. My first but not my last by this author. Wonderful secondary characters and a nice likeable H/H with just enough spice thrown in to complete the story. No big bad villians in this book just a nice light romance.
March 13, 2020
4 Stars
December 27, 2015
I really didn't know what to expect, as I hadn't read anything by this author before. I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
August 26, 2015
Well, this turned out darker than I expected. This is my fourth book from this series (I started with #3, read #5, then #1) and I think it’s safe to say you can read it in whatever order you like. However, while most of the others have been largely fun with a side order of silly (well, Master of Pleasure not as much), this one surprised me. There is still plenty of fun, not least from Alexander’s family, but Charlotte has a lot of demons to fight, thanks to one incident in her teenage years: rape.
If this is a problem or a trigger for you, please be warned because the psychological effects of that act plays a very large role in how Charlotte views pleasure.
I actually think this was handled really well, because what Charlotte went through – and her subsequent mess of a marriage – has left her very confused about how pleasure works and what she wants from that side of life. It would be too easy to brand her as disturbed or wrong, but she isn’t. And I loved how both Madame (of the school) and Alex work so hard to show her that she isn’t wrong, she just needs to accept why she feels this way and learn to face her demons head on. The BDSM aspects of this book are pretty light, but a few boundaries are definitely pushed, so if this isn’t your thing, you probably won’t enjoy these scenes.
This isn’t everything this book is about, of course, but it plays and increasingly important role in how the romance between Charlotte and Alex plays out. Right from the very beginning, when she’s a pushy shopgirl with dubious intentions (for mostly good reasons… sort of) and Alex is an insecure, overweight young man who has a very problematic relationship with food. I loved their first few interactions, when they’re both young and damaged and not quite realising the full effect they are having on each other. It doesn’t end well, of course, because there are eleven years between the first few chapters and the bulk of the book. Still, it helps to establish the kind of people they truly are deep down, once you get past the surface gloss.
Which is helpful, because the next time we see Alex he is a very different man indeed. Beautiful, strong and very much in demand with the ladies, he has worked hard to overcome his younger demons and turn himself into the sort of man no one would ever turn down. Which means he fits in perfectly with his risqué family – or he did, until he inherited the earldom and tried to turn respectable in order to marry his sisters off. I love Alex’s family, especially his younger sisters – particularly morbid little Mary. They’re all completely barking, but vibrant and eclectic. True, there are times when I don’t think his mother is particularly helpful or understanding of what Alex is trying to do, and seeing his oldest sister Caroline again just reminded me how much she annoyed me in Lady of Pleasure.
Because that book runs concurrent to this one (I think most of the books in the series do), I did feel a lot of overlap of scenes, though seen from a different perspective. Fine if you haven’t read that one yet, but definitely noticeable. It’s not a problem, I actually quite enjoyed knowing what was happening long before Alex had a clue, and the scenes at the school added a much needed touch of levity to the darker aspects of the romance. However, it did leave me with with distinct feelings of déjà vu which could be distracting.
Which is a shame because it took away from the main romance, which was both beautiful and horrible at times. The way Alex tries so hard to treat Charlotte as a lady, and the way she likewise feels like he isn’t treating her as a woman because of her past. It is sexy and sensual, and there’s never a time when Charlotte is made to feel uncomfortable, but poor Alex is the one who is pushed firmly out of his comfort zone. It’s a tricky situation and I really appreciated how things were slowly and steadily resolved. There’s no quick fix here, but it doesn’t always make for the easiest of reads.
Away from the sex the romance is at times teasing and sweet and at others fairly infuriating. Both Alex and Charlotte had trying moments, but there’s such a high potential for them to do each other the world of good that I forgave them their foolish actions while waiting for everything to sort itself out. Although, one particular scene towards the end felt more like it had been thrown in to tie in with other books in the series rather than as a genuine part of this one. Having read it from a different perspective in Mistress of Pleasure, I can say that it definitely fits more with that book than this one. As fun as the connections are, I think they can get too much after a while.
So while this is definitely another enjoyable installment of this series, do be aware that it’s a touch darker than others in this mostly light, fun series. However, if you don’t mind a little emotional turmoil with your Regency romps, then you might well enjoy this. Just don’t be fooled by the blurb, because this is less to do with Alex’s weight than Charlotte’s demons. It’s still thoroughly enjoyable, though, and I look forward to filling in my reading gaps for the rest of the series soon.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
If this is a problem or a trigger for you, please be warned because the psychological effects of that act plays a very large role in how Charlotte views pleasure.
I actually think this was handled really well, because what Charlotte went through – and her subsequent mess of a marriage – has left her very confused about how pleasure works and what she wants from that side of life. It would be too easy to brand her as disturbed or wrong, but she isn’t. And I loved how both Madame (of the school) and Alex work so hard to show her that she isn’t wrong, she just needs to accept why she feels this way and learn to face her demons head on. The BDSM aspects of this book are pretty light, but a few boundaries are definitely pushed, so if this isn’t your thing, you probably won’t enjoy these scenes.
This isn’t everything this book is about, of course, but it plays and increasingly important role in how the romance between Charlotte and Alex plays out. Right from the very beginning, when she’s a pushy shopgirl with dubious intentions (for mostly good reasons… sort of) and Alex is an insecure, overweight young man who has a very problematic relationship with food. I loved their first few interactions, when they’re both young and damaged and not quite realising the full effect they are having on each other. It doesn’t end well, of course, because there are eleven years between the first few chapters and the bulk of the book. Still, it helps to establish the kind of people they truly are deep down, once you get past the surface gloss.
Which is helpful, because the next time we see Alex he is a very different man indeed. Beautiful, strong and very much in demand with the ladies, he has worked hard to overcome his younger demons and turn himself into the sort of man no one would ever turn down. Which means he fits in perfectly with his risqué family – or he did, until he inherited the earldom and tried to turn respectable in order to marry his sisters off. I love Alex’s family, especially his younger sisters – particularly morbid little Mary. They’re all completely barking, but vibrant and eclectic. True, there are times when I don’t think his mother is particularly helpful or understanding of what Alex is trying to do, and seeing his oldest sister Caroline again just reminded me how much she annoyed me in Lady of Pleasure.
Because that book runs concurrent to this one (I think most of the books in the series do), I did feel a lot of overlap of scenes, though seen from a different perspective. Fine if you haven’t read that one yet, but definitely noticeable. It’s not a problem, I actually quite enjoyed knowing what was happening long before Alex had a clue, and the scenes at the school added a much needed touch of levity to the darker aspects of the romance. However, it did leave me with with distinct feelings of déjà vu which could be distracting.
Which is a shame because it took away from the main romance, which was both beautiful and horrible at times. The way Alex tries so hard to treat Charlotte as a lady, and the way she likewise feels like he isn’t treating her as a woman because of her past. It is sexy and sensual, and there’s never a time when Charlotte is made to feel uncomfortable, but poor Alex is the one who is pushed firmly out of his comfort zone. It’s a tricky situation and I really appreciated how things were slowly and steadily resolved. There’s no quick fix here, but it doesn’t always make for the easiest of reads.
Away from the sex the romance is at times teasing and sweet and at others fairly infuriating. Both Alex and Charlotte had trying moments, but there’s such a high potential for them to do each other the world of good that I forgave them their foolish actions while waiting for everything to sort itself out. Although, one particular scene towards the end felt more like it had been thrown in to tie in with other books in the series rather than as a genuine part of this one. Having read it from a different perspective in Mistress of Pleasure, I can say that it definitely fits more with that book than this one. As fun as the connections are, I think they can get too much after a while.
So while this is definitely another enjoyable installment of this series, do be aware that it’s a touch darker than others in this mostly light, fun series. However, if you don’t mind a little emotional turmoil with your Regency romps, then you might well enjoy this. Just don’t be fooled by the blurb, because this is less to do with Alex’s weight than Charlotte’s demons. It’s still thoroughly enjoyable, though, and I look forward to filling in my reading gaps for the rest of the series soon.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
May 1, 2020
Absolutely brilliant!
In this amusing story we have an Earl, Alexander William Baxendale, Earl of Hawksford, who is taught a good few lessons by Charlotte Sutton, the main one being that he cannot get his own way in life nor in love every single time.
The passion builds between these two fabulous characters and thank goodness there is a happily every after.
I just loved this fast paced story and also the little "quotes" at the beginning of each chapter. Absolutely brilliant and a definite "highly recommended" for those of you who think they can stand the heat!
My review is totally voluntary and it is also unbiased.
In this amusing story we have an Earl, Alexander William Baxendale, Earl of Hawksford, who is taught a good few lessons by Charlotte Sutton, the main one being that he cannot get his own way in life nor in love every single time.
The passion builds between these two fabulous characters and thank goodness there is a happily every after.
I just loved this fast paced story and also the little "quotes" at the beginning of each chapter. Absolutely brilliant and a definite "highly recommended" for those of you who think they can stand the heat!
My review is totally voluntary and it is also unbiased.
September 23, 2025
This one was a little strange. Alexander used to be fat, but when the one woman who gave him the time of day hinted that he should lose weight, he decided to start anew.
11 years later, they reconnect. Charlotte is working at the School of Gallantry and has Alexander enroll as a student.
What I wasn't such a fan of was that Charlotte had been raped and now wanted to be violated and taken forcibly. Even though Alexander loved her, he didn't enjoy doing that with her.
I really did like Alexander's morbid sister Mary and shipped Caroline and Cadwell.
It's crazy how I read the first book back in March 2021 before everything happened in my life.
11 years later, they reconnect. Charlotte is working at the School of Gallantry and has Alexander enroll as a student.
What I wasn't such a fan of was that Charlotte had been raped and now wanted to be violated and taken forcibly. Even though Alexander loved her, he didn't enjoy doing that with her.
I really did like Alexander's morbid sister Mary and shipped Caroline and Cadwell.
It's crazy how I read the first book back in March 2021 before everything happened in my life.
April 24, 2019
She has never been bad...he is known as a very bad boy! She always behaves and does what she is told...he misbehaves and doesn’t listen to anyone. Add in a masquerade ball where no one know anyone and you can be anyone, do anything...you have a tender tale with some amazing characters! Will definitely be reading more of this series!
October 30, 2019
Not my favorite, which was too bad since I was really looking forward to this hero's story from the first book. He was my favorite supporting character
Main Plot points from the first book, that this character was in was barely touched upon at all , which made it a little odd.
Would not reread.
violence- fist a cuff
Sex- typical RM
Main Plot points from the first book, that this character was in was barely touched upon at all , which made it a little odd.
Would not reread.
violence- fist a cuff
Sex- typical RM
May 17, 2024
happily ever after
Ok I’m now an official fan! Quirky, fun, romantic with some thought provoking storylines! Yes sometime uncomfortable but alway a happy ending! Totally recommend ! Start with first book in series but definitely start, I’m reaching for number 3 now!
Ok I’m now an official fan! Quirky, fun, romantic with some thought provoking storylines! Yes sometime uncomfortable but alway a happy ending! Totally recommend ! Start with first book in series but definitely start, I’m reaching for number 3 now!
June 17, 2019
Lord of Pleasure is the second book of seven in the School of Gallantry series. The first two chapters begin in London, 1814, and the story continues from chapter three, eleven years later in London, 1830.
This historical romance starts out in a most peculiar way. The self-conscious behaviour and self-esteem issues of the Hero begin the story. The weight and girth of the Hero is at the forefront, and I’ve never read a story that has an unfit and fat Hero.
Stories in this genre most commonly feature scarred, tormented, or arrogant Heroes. But never a fat one. Interesting.
~~~Madame Thérése’s School of Gallantry: All gentlemen welcome. Learn from the most celebrated demimondaine of Franc. Everything there is to know about love and seduction. Only a limited amount of Applications are being accepted at 11 Berwick Street. Discretion is guaranteed and advised.~~~
Mistress of Pleasure: 3 stars: Edmund & Maybelle (forgettable Hero)
Lord of Pleasure: 3- stars: Alexander & Charlotte (disliked Heroine)
Alexander William Baxendale, the Earl of Hawksford, used to be a very big man. Literally. Using food as a comfort while growing up in a chaotic household, Alexander’s physical change begins after meeting a shopgirl. By the time he’s ready for her, she has married someone else.
Miss Charlotte Sutton contrives scams to get money for herself. She preys on men and uses a tonic to render them incapacitated. Until she meets Alexander. Not overly likeable, I never quite warmed to her as a Heroine.
Alexander and Charlotte’s attraction didn’t strike me as a memorable or intoxicating one. Also, her name is very overused in this genre and so that also seemed lacklustre.
The plot was too all-over-the-place for me. It lacked focus and was not very captivating. Some scenes in this book intersect with the previous book which was interesting. Also, the School of Gallantry plays a diminished role in this book compared to the previous book. The school is one aspect of the story that seems undercapitalised on. There was potential for much more sexiness and intrigue.
I recommend this book for an average read.
This historical romance starts out in a most peculiar way. The self-conscious behaviour and self-esteem issues of the Hero begin the story. The weight and girth of the Hero is at the forefront, and I’ve never read a story that has an unfit and fat Hero.
Stories in this genre most commonly feature scarred, tormented, or arrogant Heroes. But never a fat one. Interesting.
~~~Madame Thérése’s School of Gallantry: All gentlemen welcome. Learn from the most celebrated demimondaine of Franc. Everything there is to know about love and seduction. Only a limited amount of Applications are being accepted at 11 Berwick Street. Discretion is guaranteed and advised.~~~
Mistress of Pleasure: 3 stars: Edmund & Maybelle (forgettable Hero)
Lord of Pleasure: 3- stars: Alexander & Charlotte (disliked Heroine)
Alexander William Baxendale, the Earl of Hawksford, used to be a very big man. Literally. Using food as a comfort while growing up in a chaotic household, Alexander’s physical change begins after meeting a shopgirl. By the time he’s ready for her, she has married someone else.
Miss Charlotte Sutton contrives scams to get money for herself. She preys on men and uses a tonic to render them incapacitated. Until she meets Alexander. Not overly likeable, I never quite warmed to her as a Heroine.
Alexander and Charlotte’s attraction didn’t strike me as a memorable or intoxicating one. Also, her name is very overused in this genre and so that also seemed lacklustre.
The plot was too all-over-the-place for me. It lacked focus and was not very captivating. Some scenes in this book intersect with the previous book which was interesting. Also, the School of Gallantry plays a diminished role in this book compared to the previous book. The school is one aspect of the story that seems undercapitalised on. There was potential for much more sexiness and intrigue.
I recommend this book for an average read.
August 15, 2021
im fanning myself still
January 12, 2011
Lady Charlotte Chartwell is a self respecting widow – she really is. Right at this moment while trolling up and down the street you could not prove it to anyone including Charlotte but she knew at one time she had been. At that moment she was trying to find a man, any man who would step up and take care of her and help save her from total despair and ruin. After her husband, the late Lord Chartwell, had been murdered by one of his many lovers Charlotte tried many different household positions that just did not work out. It appeared that her late husband was not the only man that found it impossible to keep their hands to themselves and their pants buttoned. She had been dismissed from too many positions that she now could not gain respectable employment and with the bills mounting thanks to her late husband’s decision to leave her penniless she has found herself in search of a man, any man that could help her. Charlotte is sure she knows how it came to this – a horrid late husband, out of control men and a lack of money and Charlotte knew that while what she was trying to do was wrong it was all she had left – to sell her body to any man willing to pay. Once she takes her first glimpse at Alexander she is convinced he is the man for the job.
Lord Alexander William Baxendale, the third Earl of Hawksford while finding himself lured by her seductive voice and beautiful face what Charlotte is proposing is unacceptable. While he wants her desperately from the moment of their first touch he knows that he cannot have her and will not destroy what little respectability he has left with the ton. For too many years he let himself run wild and had gained a reputation as the Lord of Pleasure. At the time when he ran wild he prided himself on his ability to give as much pleasure as he gave but those days were over and respectability was the time he lived in.
Alexander having been by unconventional and out of control parents who led one life in front of the ton and another sexually explicit in their own home. Alexander knew that the ton forgave nothing and remembered every indiscretion with the power to ruin lives and they would never forgive him if this behavior were to continue on with him. The burden of head of the household was laid upon his shoulders when his father passed away and Alexander took on the responsibility of rearing and most importantly marrying off his five unruly sisters. That task was daunting enough since each was more complex than the other and he also had the task of keeping his mother under control – something that was a near impossible task for any man. She liked life on the wide side and that was the wrong side as far as the ton and reputations was concerned.
But Alexander could not deny his desire for Charlotte and that desire leads him to The School of Gallantry where a feisty French woman with a dream teaches proper gentlemen the art of seduction and how to refine their sexuality in order to pleasure a woman on every level. While Alexander wanted no part of this he knew that Charlotte was tied up with this school and if he had to bury his pride and humble himself that is what he would do if it meant he could spend one minute in Charlotte’s presence. For that one minute brought more please to his life than he could have ever hoped for or expected.
Alexander struggles and loses his battle to keep his head about him when Charlotte is around and after the shared intimacy between them he knows that all that he wanted is now of no import – he must have Charlotte and reconcile the life he desires with all of his heart with the life and responsibility that he has. But while he is making plans his sister’s create more problems than he thought possible, Charlotte fights him at every turn and he find himself kicked out of school – how did his life come to any of this. It takes allot of soul searching, apologizing and days of wooing to get things back where they should be but Alexander is a hopeful man and that hope will see him achieve the end goal – to make Charlotte his wife and the mother of a number of sons who will finally get him out from under all these females.
Unbelievable! How can it be possible for your second book to be better than the first in a series? When you have read book two you will know just how you take the series to the next step and what a huge step this one is. While the first book was enchanting and well written this second book is erotic and enticing. You feel as if you are standing in a room with Charlotte and Alexander – spying if you will on them and taking part in their first kiss to their last embrace when the book concludes. You expect to like the characters and root for their successful coupling but do you ever find yourself wishing there were more pages in a book – that it would not end just yet. Lord of Pleasure makes you not only reread every page but mark the pages you have to go back to again and again and…..
Lord Alexander William Baxendale, the third Earl of Hawksford while finding himself lured by her seductive voice and beautiful face what Charlotte is proposing is unacceptable. While he wants her desperately from the moment of their first touch he knows that he cannot have her and will not destroy what little respectability he has left with the ton. For too many years he let himself run wild and had gained a reputation as the Lord of Pleasure. At the time when he ran wild he prided himself on his ability to give as much pleasure as he gave but those days were over and respectability was the time he lived in.
Alexander having been by unconventional and out of control parents who led one life in front of the ton and another sexually explicit in their own home. Alexander knew that the ton forgave nothing and remembered every indiscretion with the power to ruin lives and they would never forgive him if this behavior were to continue on with him. The burden of head of the household was laid upon his shoulders when his father passed away and Alexander took on the responsibility of rearing and most importantly marrying off his five unruly sisters. That task was daunting enough since each was more complex than the other and he also had the task of keeping his mother under control – something that was a near impossible task for any man. She liked life on the wide side and that was the wrong side as far as the ton and reputations was concerned.
But Alexander could not deny his desire for Charlotte and that desire leads him to The School of Gallantry where a feisty French woman with a dream teaches proper gentlemen the art of seduction and how to refine their sexuality in order to pleasure a woman on every level. While Alexander wanted no part of this he knew that Charlotte was tied up with this school and if he had to bury his pride and humble himself that is what he would do if it meant he could spend one minute in Charlotte’s presence. For that one minute brought more please to his life than he could have ever hoped for or expected.
Alexander struggles and loses his battle to keep his head about him when Charlotte is around and after the shared intimacy between them he knows that all that he wanted is now of no import – he must have Charlotte and reconcile the life he desires with all of his heart with the life and responsibility that he has. But while he is making plans his sister’s create more problems than he thought possible, Charlotte fights him at every turn and he find himself kicked out of school – how did his life come to any of this. It takes allot of soul searching, apologizing and days of wooing to get things back where they should be but Alexander is a hopeful man and that hope will see him achieve the end goal – to make Charlotte his wife and the mother of a number of sons who will finally get him out from under all these females.
Unbelievable! How can it be possible for your second book to be better than the first in a series? When you have read book two you will know just how you take the series to the next step and what a huge step this one is. While the first book was enchanting and well written this second book is erotic and enticing. You feel as if you are standing in a room with Charlotte and Alexander – spying if you will on them and taking part in their first kiss to their last embrace when the book concludes. You expect to like the characters and root for their successful coupling but do you ever find yourself wishing there were more pages in a book – that it would not end just yet. Lord of Pleasure makes you not only reread every page but mark the pages you have to go back to again and again and…..
March 17, 2023
"corseted waist"
January 14, 2010
Marvelle’s tale of Alexander Baxendale, third Earl of Hawksford and Charlotte, Lady Chartwell is indeed sweet, delightful and endearing to readers. What originally sold the purchase of The Lord of Pleasure were reviewers’ consistent comments that Marvelle’s novels were hilarious and fun. Nothing is better when you have laughs along with romance. And nothing is harder to write. So special respect should be set-aside for those authors who are able to successfully concoct hilarity for us.
It had been a while since I’d picked up a historical romance. Favorites include Christina Dodd, Gaelen Foley, Judith McNaught and Julia Quinn. Lord of Pleasure largely reminds of early Julia Quinn with some Jude Deveraux naiveté thrown in. Marvelle’s second novel is green, but with great promise and careful attention. The characters each have their own voice; personality, and connects with readers.
Just like Quinn capitalizing on the Bridgertons, Lady Whistledown, and the Featherington’s (dear, sweet, befuddled Penelope always enveloped in yellow!), so too has Marvelle carved out some unique characterizations: Madame de Maitenon, Harold, the bull-faced butler-stevedore, Alexander’s saucy mother and sisters, and of course, Lord Caldwell.
But by far the most interesting (and funny) of Marvelle’s characters is Alexander’s deeply quirky, gothic-bound, funereal sister Mary whose desire for caskets and mourning gowns are driving Alexander to distraction. Marvelle has enough material about Mary to develop a great story. Just imagine Mary looking for her dark highwayman to sweep her away in pure Byronic style! Throw in a few capers of the Baxendale sisters and that indeed would be hilarious!
It had been a while since I’d picked up a historical romance. Favorites include Christina Dodd, Gaelen Foley, Judith McNaught and Julia Quinn. Lord of Pleasure largely reminds of early Julia Quinn with some Jude Deveraux naiveté thrown in. Marvelle’s second novel is green, but with great promise and careful attention. The characters each have their own voice; personality, and connects with readers.
Just like Quinn capitalizing on the Bridgertons, Lady Whistledown, and the Featherington’s (dear, sweet, befuddled Penelope always enveloped in yellow!), so too has Marvelle carved out some unique characterizations: Madame de Maitenon, Harold, the bull-faced butler-stevedore, Alexander’s saucy mother and sisters, and of course, Lord Caldwell.
But by far the most interesting (and funny) of Marvelle’s characters is Alexander’s deeply quirky, gothic-bound, funereal sister Mary whose desire for caskets and mourning gowns are driving Alexander to distraction. Marvelle has enough material about Mary to develop a great story. Just imagine Mary looking for her dark highwayman to sweep her away in pure Byronic style! Throw in a few capers of the Baxendale sisters and that indeed would be hilarious!
June 1, 2011
I expected something just as dirty and funny and steamy as the last book by Delilah I read. Instead I found a book full of heart. While both books were about love and how tricky it can be, this one seemed more heartfelt, more full of love and affection and less carnal and lusty. It was a big difference from her last one but not an unpleasant difference. I believe there are only two sex scenes in the whole book but the build up and the emotion that fills the spaces around them is completely worth reading.
Delilah writes characters that are funny and full of emotion and very real. I feel as if I could go back in time and find these people she wrote about. Lady Chartwell was beautiful in that she was hurt, she was innocent and yet not, and she was longing for something that felt impossible. Hawksford was hard on the outside yet soft on the inside, fragile in that he’d been hurt before and strong in that he went out of his way to make people feel even if what he made them feel was only carnal pleasure. And the way she builds relationships makes me look at my own writing and wonder if I’m doing it right. She twists and molds them into a living, breathing thing and I’m captivated from the start.
Even if you don’t like romance novels you should give anything but Delilah Marvelle a shot. Her tension, love, and humor is worth the embarrassment of reading a book with the word ‘pleasure’ on the cover.
Delilah writes characters that are funny and full of emotion and very real. I feel as if I could go back in time and find these people she wrote about. Lady Chartwell was beautiful in that she was hurt, she was innocent and yet not, and she was longing for something that felt impossible. Hawksford was hard on the outside yet soft on the inside, fragile in that he’d been hurt before and strong in that he went out of his way to make people feel even if what he made them feel was only carnal pleasure. And the way she builds relationships makes me look at my own writing and wonder if I’m doing it right. She twists and molds them into a living, breathing thing and I’m captivated from the start.
Even if you don’t like romance novels you should give anything but Delilah Marvelle a shot. Her tension, love, and humor is worth the embarrassment of reading a book with the word ‘pleasure’ on the cover.
November 12, 2015
Alexander, the Earl of Hawksford is a young man of a heavy statue When he meets Charlotte Sutton at his mother's milliner's shop he is intrigued with her. She first wants to use him as a mark but then after speaking to him she is very attracted to him. Eleven years separate them for one thing or another. He loses weight and becomes an Adonis. Charlotte returns and he still hold very strong feelings for her.
Charlotte becomes employed by Maybelle's courtesan grandmother Terese at the school of Galantry. Hawksford has much responsibility as an Earl and he always wants to maintain proper manners and decorum. His mother and father were social outcasts and wants to break that stigma for his four sisters. He is truly smitten with Charlotte and he with her. This is a great story of love conquers all. I loved the dialogue between this couple to me so genuine. If you are a true romantic at heart this is a story to read.
Charlotte becomes employed by Maybelle's courtesan grandmother Terese at the school of Galantry. Hawksford has much responsibility as an Earl and he always wants to maintain proper manners and decorum. His mother and father were social outcasts and wants to break that stigma for his four sisters. He is truly smitten with Charlotte and he with her. This is a great story of love conquers all. I loved the dialogue between this couple to me so genuine. If you are a true romantic at heart this is a story to read.
August 21, 2015
This was my first reading of this story and didn't know what to expect, and I have to say I throughly enjoyed it.
The story starts of very differently as the hero, Alexander, the Earl of Hawksford, decides he has to change his life by altering his eating habits when he realizes he can't have the girl he covets.
The girl, Miss Charlotte Sutton, has problems of her own after being attacked when she was young. She gets a position in the School of Gallantry.
They meet up again years later when Alex joins the school and he works to help Charlotte get over her ordeal.
A hot little story. I loved Alex and his determination, he was also a very loving character. He was great. This was a wonderful story and a great addition to series. I look forward to the next great book.
The story starts of very differently as the hero, Alexander, the Earl of Hawksford, decides he has to change his life by altering his eating habits when he realizes he can't have the girl he covets.
The girl, Miss Charlotte Sutton, has problems of her own after being attacked when she was young. She gets a position in the School of Gallantry.
They meet up again years later when Alex joins the school and he works to help Charlotte get over her ordeal.
A hot little story. I loved Alex and his determination, he was also a very loving character. He was great. This was a wonderful story and a great addition to series. I look forward to the next great book.
January 27, 2011
I was originally going to say this book was "adorable" but there's far too much sexy stuff going on for it to be that... cute. I really enjoyed this book, though, especially after reading #1. It put a great new perspective to a Hawkford, a character I met in "Mistress of Pleasure," and it worked beautifully. This book itself actually had far less sex than the first one, but I found the story, and the attraction between the characters, to be really heartwarming. Honestly, great character development for such a fun, quick read. I definitely intend to read more frmo Marvelle and suggest that if you like this style of book you check out this series.
August 18, 2015
I read this originally in 2013 and I really liked it, however it was redone and expanded and it is even better. I do not think I have read mnay books where the hero is less than perfect...well at least at the beginning ...our hero is fluffy... he likes to eat to excess and he is a virgin.... he was of course in the end, gorgeous but his metamorphis I think made him a better hero. I really liked this one, the premise of the school... the widow... the incredible reforming rake with his 5 sisters and outgoing mother.... the cast of secondary characters was as great as the primaries... I cannot wait to read another!
September 9, 2015
Alexander, Earl of Hawksford, and Miss Charlotte met by chance when he accompanied his mother to the shop where she assisted. A man of the bigger size, Alex wasn´t used to being the center of attention in a positive way, but Charlotte showed him there´s more than the outside to people. Life comes between them, and when they meet years later the attraction is still sizzling.
Can they both get past the ghosts that are haunting them, and make a go of it?
Historical romance, smutty fluff and emotions in a great combo. An unconventional couple that will capture your heart too <3
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Can they both get past the ghosts that are haunting them, and make a go of it?
Historical romance, smutty fluff and emotions in a great combo. An unconventional couple that will capture your heart too <3
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
August 23, 2015
This book was fun to read and a little sad at the same time considering Charlotte's background. But her attitude is amazing. She does not allow her past to get in the way of what she wants to achieve and who she wants to pursue.
As for Alexander, his determination is a match for Charlotte. He has a heart of gold, trying so hard to be the man his father never was; to be the protector for all the women in his life. Of course as stubborn as they both are, you can expect fireworks. Also there is much humor and an eccentric sort of romance.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
As for Alexander, his determination is a match for Charlotte. He has a heart of gold, trying so hard to be the man his father never was; to be the protector for all the women in his life. Of course as stubborn as they both are, you can expect fireworks. Also there is much humor and an eccentric sort of romance.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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