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Beauty Tempts the Beast
Is the enemy of her enemy a friend-or a beast?
Lord Ashworth is scarred by a night of terror years ago that left his face in ruins and his life in shreds. He hides in Silverstone Manor, using rumors that paint him as a horrible, murdering monster to keep visitors at bay. Yet he can't shake the feeling that the rumors might be true. He tells himself it's better this way. If his memories ever resurface, at least he will be the only one hurt by them.
The woman on his doorstep, however, simply refuses to fear him. That's not only an oddity, it's a threat to his secret - and his heart.
Vivian Suttley has seen the face of evil more than once in her young life. She's on the run from the latest, a cruel man determined to force her to marry him. Whatever the whispers about the reclusive Ashworth, surely it's nothing compared to the bleak, violent future she leaves behind.
Ashworth saved her once before, and he's her last hope for refuge. Yet she wonders if she's truly safer at Silverstone - or if she has just made the biggest mistake of her life.
Warning: This book contains a lot of sexual tension and a several sexual scenes, have a fan ready!
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2006
18 people are currently reading
591 people want to read
About the author
Leslie Dicken
11 books60 followersI write romances, make jewelry, and sell homes. I'd love to hear your thoughts on my books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
April 20, 2011
I don't know what's with me these days but more often than not in the past week I've found the titles mismatch the book. "Beauty Tempts the Beast" I support "Tempts the Beast" works. He was rather reluctant. But "Beauty" isn't a suitable title for Vivian the heroine. I'm not saying she isn't pretty or that I didn't like her. I did like her, and we're told that Lord Ashworth (the hero) finds her attractive. But beauty doesn't fit. In fact, I'd say she shunned the title or idea behind being a female 'beauty' as she wears her simple dresses, digs in the dirt, scampers around under bushes, and feels uncomfortable as the centre of attention.
I don't really have a suggestion for a better title (Temptress and the Beast? Sanctuary and the Beast? I don't know). Anyway, moving along.
This was a great read. It's been attached to me all day. There was definitely a Jane Eyre vibe going on: creepy house, reclusive hero who is a bit surely but takes to the heroine in a friendship-y as well as lustful way, mysterious house 'ghosts', child, house staff that isn't extremely welcoming, and lots of mysteries and secrets. What differs is the ending. (I HATE Jane Eyre's ending starting from the wedding part. Let's just say that I would have written things a bit differently with the same basic outcome.) Did I guess the villain and the motive? Why yes I did, but that's because I always hope this exact conflict will come up. In fact, I always guess it as a motive, but am rarely right.
There was a great and complex story here that was a bit messy (in a good way, as in not tied in a pretty bow where everything is revealed to every single character at the end). I really enjoyed the read, but it was a bit too dark and creepy for me. I didn't feel that the characters were super dark (other than the main villain in the story) but the creepy house and the mysterious 'monster' grated on my happiness bubble a bit - but that is totally personal preference. Again, I really compare the reading experience to that of Jane Eyre, I got the same sort of spooky 'where is the happy-romance-ness?' feeling from that book two, and I've never re-read it.
One thing I didn't think was particularly necessary was the subplot of Martin searching for Vivian. Sure, it rounded out the details a lot better because the book starts when the main characters meet each other so we don't see any of the conflict or other characters involved before the meeting. But I was much more focused on the main characters and their journey (if you will), so I just wanted to take their word on their past instead of seeing it being constructed by the man who linked the two main characters together and was searching for them.
But yeah. Good read. I recommend it to anyone who likes the spooky, dark, historical romance that has two great lead characters.
I don't really have a suggestion for a better title (Temptress and the Beast? Sanctuary and the Beast? I don't know). Anyway, moving along.
This was a great read. It's been attached to me all day. There was definitely a Jane Eyre vibe going on: creepy house, reclusive hero who is a bit surely but takes to the heroine in a friendship-y as well as lustful way, mysterious house 'ghosts', child, house staff that isn't extremely welcoming, and lots of mysteries and secrets. What differs is the ending. (I HATE Jane Eyre's ending starting from the wedding part. Let's just say that I would have written things a bit differently with the same basic outcome.) Did I guess the villain and the motive? Why yes I did, but that's because I always hope this exact conflict will come up. In fact, I always guess it as a motive, but am rarely right.
There was a great and complex story here that was a bit messy (in a good way, as in not tied in a pretty bow where everything is revealed to every single character at the end). I really enjoyed the read, but it was a bit too dark and creepy for me. I didn't feel that the characters were super dark (other than the main villain in the story) but the creepy house and the mysterious 'monster' grated on my happiness bubble a bit - but that is totally personal preference. Again, I really compare the reading experience to that of Jane Eyre, I got the same sort of spooky 'where is the happy-romance-ness?' feeling from that book two, and I've never re-read it.
One thing I didn't think was particularly necessary was the subplot of Martin searching for Vivian. Sure, it rounded out the details a lot better because the book starts when the main characters meet each other so we don't see any of the conflict or other characters involved before the meeting. But I was much more focused on the main characters and their journey (if you will), so I just wanted to take their word on their past instead of seeing it being constructed by the man who linked the two main characters together and was searching for them.
But yeah. Good read. I recommend it to anyone who likes the spooky, dark, historical romance that has two great lead characters.
January 23, 2015
I love beauty and the beast type themes, the novel Beauty Tempts the Beast by Leslie Dicken is one of them.
This book is about Vivian Suttley who has seen the face of evil more than once in her young life. She’s on the run from the latest, a cruel man determined to force her to marry him. She hears about a recluse Lord looking to marry she finds herself on the doorsteps of Silverstone Manor. Our hero is the Load of Silverstone Manor, Lord Ashworth, Charles, he is scarred by a night of terror years ago that left his face in ruins and his life in shreds. He hides at the Manor, using rumors that paint him as a horrible, murdering monster to keep visitors at bay. Yet he can’t shake the feeling that the rumors might be true. He tells himself it’s better this way. If his memories ever resurface, at least he will be the only one hurt by them. The woman on his doorstep, however, simply refuses to fear him. That’s not only an oddity, it’s a threat to his secret… his son, Harry and his heart. Whatever the whispers about the reclusive Ashworth, surely it’s nothing compared to the bleak, violent future she leaves behind. Ashworth saved her once before, when she was twelve years old, and he’s her last hope for refuge. Yet she wonders if she’s truly safer at Silverstone—or if she has just made the biggest mistake of her life.
I really enjoyed this read and highly recommend this book. Be aware they do hint at Homosexuality and child abuse, nothing graphic but for those who are offended it is in the story line. I would rate the sexual content of the romance a 7.
This book is about Vivian Suttley who has seen the face of evil more than once in her young life. She’s on the run from the latest, a cruel man determined to force her to marry him. She hears about a recluse Lord looking to marry she finds herself on the doorsteps of Silverstone Manor. Our hero is the Load of Silverstone Manor, Lord Ashworth, Charles, he is scarred by a night of terror years ago that left his face in ruins and his life in shreds. He hides at the Manor, using rumors that paint him as a horrible, murdering monster to keep visitors at bay. Yet he can’t shake the feeling that the rumors might be true. He tells himself it’s better this way. If his memories ever resurface, at least he will be the only one hurt by them. The woman on his doorstep, however, simply refuses to fear him. That’s not only an oddity, it’s a threat to his secret… his son, Harry and his heart. Whatever the whispers about the reclusive Ashworth, surely it’s nothing compared to the bleak, violent future she leaves behind. Ashworth saved her once before, when she was twelve years old, and he’s her last hope for refuge. Yet she wonders if she’s truly safer at Silverstone—or if she has just made the biggest mistake of her life.
I really enjoyed this read and highly recommend this book. Be aware they do hint at Homosexuality and child abuse, nothing graphic but for those who are offended it is in the story line. I would rate the sexual content of the romance a 7.
April 23, 2010
*4 & 1/2 starts out of 5 stars!*
To be very honest, I thought at first glance that this was a paranormal romance, only to find out it is a Historical Romance. It was only my second read in this genre and I absolutely loved this book.
I was so pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed Beauty Tempts the Beast. I read it last night in one sitting and I just wanted more in the end. A story of trauma, heroism, tragedy, hate, envy and love.
Vivian Suttley is on the run, trying to escape the fate her father chose for her, She does not want to marry Marvin, a vicious man who treats women as things. Vivian than runs to Silverstone Manor, where Lord Ashworth lives and since she hears he is in need of a wife, she decides that it might be best for her.
Ashworth is a scarred and recluse man, but as a child Vivian had been graced with his gentleness and had been saved from a very complicated situation. Besides, the man who is hunting her, hates him with all his might, so Silverstone Manor might be the safest place for her to hide.
Lord Ashworth is conformed to live in his house away from the world where his secrets can be kept in the dark. But, his life changes when Vivian shows up in his house and life and for the first time a woman doesn’t seem to be afraid of the way he looks after his scar marked his face.
When his old betrothed shows up with her sights on his fortune and he realizes that Vivian might be the real deal, Ashworth finds himself scared of more than just the supposed the Beast that roams the hall of his manor, he finds himself scared of living and letting his heart beat for real, for the first time.
Beauty Tempts the Beast is about action, it is about human drama, taking charge of your own life and not letting the past rot your insides. This novel is such a beautiful story of two scarred people discovering that there is nothing wrong with falling in love. I loved the mystery surrounding Lord Ashworth’s Manor and I loved how perfect Vivian and Ashworth were for each other.
The only thing that bothered me a bit, was Ashworth self deprecation, though I do understand the whys and was very happy with how things worked out.
Leslie Dicken has found a new fan in me with this novel. Such a lovely book that I flew through with ease and pleasure. I can’t wait for what else she has in store. If you are a romantic at heart and is need of reading a beautiful romance with a touch of mystery, I totally recommend this book.
To be very honest, I thought at first glance that this was a paranormal romance, only to find out it is a Historical Romance. It was only my second read in this genre and I absolutely loved this book.
I was so pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed Beauty Tempts the Beast. I read it last night in one sitting and I just wanted more in the end. A story of trauma, heroism, tragedy, hate, envy and love.
Vivian Suttley is on the run, trying to escape the fate her father chose for her, She does not want to marry Marvin, a vicious man who treats women as things. Vivian than runs to Silverstone Manor, where Lord Ashworth lives and since she hears he is in need of a wife, she decides that it might be best for her.
Ashworth is a scarred and recluse man, but as a child Vivian had been graced with his gentleness and had been saved from a very complicated situation. Besides, the man who is hunting her, hates him with all his might, so Silverstone Manor might be the safest place for her to hide.
Lord Ashworth is conformed to live in his house away from the world where his secrets can be kept in the dark. But, his life changes when Vivian shows up in his house and life and for the first time a woman doesn’t seem to be afraid of the way he looks after his scar marked his face.
When his old betrothed shows up with her sights on his fortune and he realizes that Vivian might be the real deal, Ashworth finds himself scared of more than just the supposed the Beast that roams the hall of his manor, he finds himself scared of living and letting his heart beat for real, for the first time.
Beauty Tempts the Beast is about action, it is about human drama, taking charge of your own life and not letting the past rot your insides. This novel is such a beautiful story of two scarred people discovering that there is nothing wrong with falling in love. I loved the mystery surrounding Lord Ashworth’s Manor and I loved how perfect Vivian and Ashworth were for each other.
The only thing that bothered me a bit, was Ashworth self deprecation, though I do understand the whys and was very happy with how things worked out.
Leslie Dicken has found a new fan in me with this novel. Such a lovely book that I flew through with ease and pleasure. I can’t wait for what else she has in store. If you are a romantic at heart and is need of reading a beautiful romance with a touch of mystery, I totally recommend this book.
April 30, 2011
Really 3.5 stars but I'm feeling generous so I'll round up instead of down.
This book was my third ever erotica read. I wasn't sure that I'd like it, as I haven't liked the genre in the past, but decided to try it anyway as part of my Beauty and the Beast spree. The erotic scenes fitted in with the storyline better than my previous experiences at any rate, though I'm not sure that I'm sold on the dreams.
The hero is more of a beast in his mind than his body, being described as handsome despite the scar on his face. But he is tormented by his past, by events that keep him from sleeping at night.
The heroine is on the run from the abusive man who means to marry her for her money. She knows the hero from the distant past when he stepped in to help her out of a sticky situation and she hopes that he will do so again now.
Throw in a few side characters (the abusive man, the hero's ex-fiancée, a young boy, a friend from school and a handful of servants)and you have the cast for this book.
The most complex character was probably Martin (the abuser) due to the horrors of his childhood that turned him into a monster, but we don't really get to see much of that, the author fixating on his perverse sexual desires.
There are many secrets being kept between all the characters. The setting, a crumbling manor, is reflective of their psychological states, the garden is the hope for the future. The relations between the hero and the heroine started as of early on in the story. I would have preferred to see more of a growth of their feelings towards each other, but considering the genre I suppose I can't complain as I knew what I was signing up for.
A couple of things:
- I saw the final twists coming from a mile away, but they were made fairly obvious in the last 50 pages or so.
- I wish there'd been more to the poisoning event. It all seemed to be over very quickly with her just magically better and up and berrating him again. The recovery was so swift that there wasn't much point in even using it as a plot device.
- I'd have liked more substance to how he saved her in the past. It was built up for so long that the reveal of the actual events disappointed. I was expecting more.
- Some sentence structure is rather clunky and I found myself reading certain sentences a few times over before I understood what the author was trying to say.
- Some weird preposition use. Eg: "on his own accord". I would say 'of' here rather than 'on' - I don't know whether this is influenced by the other languages in my head. There were others as well.
- Are there turtles in the lakes in the Lake District? I've never seen any there before.
- What was with the boy suddenly saying "momma" and "poppa" instead of "mama" and "papa" as he had previously? This ripped me out of the book, sounded too forced.
And most importantly:
- Overuse of the word "suddenly". They say that you shouldn't even use that particular word in writing. This author was using it all the time!
Despite all this, I enjoyed the story well enough for what it was. Very short and easily readable in an evening.
Edit: I checked regarding "on his own accord" and it is indeed "of" and not "on".
I also checked regarding turtles in the Lake District. Asked someone who knows the place very well and they looked at me like I'd gone mad. So no turtles in the Lake District.
This book was my third ever erotica read. I wasn't sure that I'd like it, as I haven't liked the genre in the past, but decided to try it anyway as part of my Beauty and the Beast spree. The erotic scenes fitted in with the storyline better than my previous experiences at any rate, though I'm not sure that I'm sold on the dreams.
The hero is more of a beast in his mind than his body, being described as handsome despite the scar on his face. But he is tormented by his past, by events that keep him from sleeping at night.
The heroine is on the run from the abusive man who means to marry her for her money. She knows the hero from the distant past when he stepped in to help her out of a sticky situation and she hopes that he will do so again now.
Throw in a few side characters (the abusive man, the hero's ex-fiancée, a young boy, a friend from school and a handful of servants)and you have the cast for this book.
The most complex character was probably Martin (the abuser) due to the horrors of his childhood that turned him into a monster, but we don't really get to see much of that, the author fixating on his perverse sexual desires.
There are many secrets being kept between all the characters. The setting, a crumbling manor, is reflective of their psychological states, the garden is the hope for the future. The relations between the hero and the heroine started as of early on in the story. I would have preferred to see more of a growth of their feelings towards each other, but considering the genre I suppose I can't complain as I knew what I was signing up for.
A couple of things:
- I saw the final twists coming from a mile away, but they were made fairly obvious in the last 50 pages or so.
- I wish there'd been more to the poisoning event. It all seemed to be over very quickly with her just magically better and up and berrating him again. The recovery was so swift that there wasn't much point in even using it as a plot device.
- I'd have liked more substance to how he saved her in the past. It was built up for so long that the reveal of the actual events disappointed. I was expecting more.
- Some sentence structure is rather clunky and I found myself reading certain sentences a few times over before I understood what the author was trying to say.
- Some weird preposition use. Eg: "on his own accord". I would say 'of' here rather than 'on' - I don't know whether this is influenced by the other languages in my head. There were others as well.
- Are there turtles in the lakes in the Lake District? I've never seen any there before.
- What was with the boy suddenly saying "momma" and "poppa" instead of "mama" and "papa" as he had previously? This ripped me out of the book, sounded too forced.
And most importantly:
- Overuse of the word "suddenly". They say that you shouldn't even use that particular word in writing. This author was using it all the time!
Despite all this, I enjoyed the story well enough for what it was. Very short and easily readable in an evening.
Edit: I checked regarding "on his own accord" and it is indeed "of" and not "on".
I also checked regarding turtles in the Lake District. Asked someone who knows the place very well and they looked at me like I'd gone mad. So no turtles in the Lake District.
October 2, 2010
“Beauty Tempts the Beast” is immediately engaging, quickly capturing the reader’s attention with a dark, tortured hero surrounded by mystery and an equally mysterious heroine hoping to find protection as his bride. Each of these characters is surrounded and driven by dark deeds and painful secrets that they can only escape by learning to place their trust in the other. The villains surrounding them are diabolically evil and the final twist will make your jaw drop.
I really enjoyed reading this story and joining Charles and Vivian on the rocky journey out of the shadows and into the forgiving light of new love. Leslie Dicken shows tremendous promise as a new author and I look forward to reading more of her stories in the future.
I really enjoyed reading this story and joining Charles and Vivian on the rocky journey out of the shadows and into the forgiving light of new love. Leslie Dicken shows tremendous promise as a new author and I look forward to reading more of her stories in the future.
Read
July 17, 2009Ashworth has secluded himself in his manor because of a murder that took place that left him scarred. He has a faulty memory of the murder and does not trust himself with others. Vivian is on the run from a man who has abused her. She offers herself in marriage to Ashworth in order to get protection.
September 7, 2009
this was actually a historical romance. When i initially bought this I thought it was paranormal contemporary romance. I guess thats what happens when you buy books on a whim. Even though I don't read romance I gobbled this book in one night and its not short. I actually enjoyed this book quite a bit, I will need to look the author up to see what other books she has out.
February 5, 2016
This was an interesting story. I gave it 2 sters because the book had homosexuals in the story and not just one but two separate characters with their own issues, and also I don't appreciate violence with my romance novels.
Currently reading
July 11, 2009the benefit of reading ebooks is it looks like you are working when you sit at your desk and read
June 17, 2022
This was a solid 4-5 stars up until about 60%. Then the holes started showing up and it kinda fell apart. There were a lot of great secrets, but the reveals dragged on for far too long. Excellent gothic setting.
My grievances:
- There are too many "sexual deviants" to be believable. Let's count: 1. one homosexual, 2. one homosexual/bisexual (we saw him with men, but not with women and he was very possessive of his bride so we can't confirm), 3. one pedophile, 4. the homo/bi character may have also been a pedophile as his two male lovers were "young", 5. the H was basically a virgin having only had sex once (and then twice with the h), 6. the h was not a virgin having "willingly" taken a male "lover" once, 7. one character who gets off on sexual violence (not BDSM), 8. the character from #7 engages in on-page anal sex at one point, 9. two sex hungry female characters
- Plot holes: 1. If John loved Charles, why did he frame him for murder?, 2. Martin suggested that Charles should fuck Martin's gf, and then he gets mad that Charles actually does it????, 3. Martin is a social climber but is somehow part of a trio with John and Charles
- Important plot points that are glossed over: 1. the h gets poisoned but it's no big deal and she recovers quickly, 2. the scars the h's mother had, 3. the duck
- I was left with questions: 1. was Charles' nightly tonic a poison or some method for John to control Charles, 2. who was molesting the h in the middle of the night
- There was good sexual tension, but the sex didn't feel intimate. It was very modern featuring blow jobs, creative positions, and not pulling out.
- The h wasn't raped. I guess Martin bit her ass and left bruises, but didn't actually fuck her. BDSM (like spanking) was kinda implied idk. I hate when authors do this. A character gets raped or doesn't get raped. Don't put characters in fucking gray areas. Weak authors do this to protect the sanctity of the MCs fucking. *screaming*
- Crucial conversations took place as pillow talk.
My grievances:
- There are too many "sexual deviants" to be believable. Let's count: 1. one homosexual, 2. one homosexual/bisexual (we saw him with men, but not with women and he was very possessive of his bride so we can't confirm), 3. one pedophile, 4. the homo/bi character may have also been a pedophile as his two male lovers were "young", 5. the H was basically a virgin having only had sex once (and then twice with the h), 6. the h was not a virgin having "willingly" taken a male "lover" once, 7. one character who gets off on sexual violence (not BDSM), 8. the character from #7 engages in on-page anal sex at one point, 9. two sex hungry female characters
- Plot holes: 1. If John loved Charles, why did he frame him for murder?, 2. Martin suggested that Charles should fuck Martin's gf, and then he gets mad that Charles actually does it????, 3. Martin is a social climber but is somehow part of a trio with John and Charles
- Important plot points that are glossed over: 1. the h gets poisoned but it's no big deal and she recovers quickly, 2. the scars the h's mother had, 3. the duck
- I was left with questions: 1. was Charles' nightly tonic a poison or some method for John to control Charles, 2. who was molesting the h in the middle of the night
- There was good sexual tension, but the sex didn't feel intimate. It was very modern featuring blow jobs, creative positions, and not pulling out.
- The h wasn't raped. I guess Martin bit her ass and left bruises, but didn't actually fuck her. BDSM (like spanking) was kinda implied idk. I hate when authors do this. A character gets raped or doesn't get raped. Don't put characters in fucking gray areas. Weak authors do this to protect the sanctity of the MCs fucking. *screaming*
- Crucial conversations took place as pillow talk.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2018
It was a little longer than I expected it to be, but I enjoyed it. Always love a new twist and perspective on my favourite fairy tale lovers.
September 6, 2018
So good
I really enjoyed this novel by this new out there. I will go on to read more from her. Y
I really enjoyed this novel by this new out there. I will go on to read more from her. Y
January 15, 2020
Ug... nothing happened in this entire book! I was so bored.
October 11, 2010
Is the enemy of her enemy a friend…or a beast?
Lord Ashworth is scarred by a night of terror years ago that left his face in ruins and his life in shreds. He hides in Silverstone Manor, using rumors that paint him as a horrible, murdering monster to keep visitors at bay. Yet he can’t shake the feeling that the rumors might be true. He tells himself it’s better this way. If his memories ever resurface, at least he will be the only one hurt by them.
The woman on his doorstep, however, simply refuses to fear him. That’s not only an oddity, it’s a threat to his secret…and his heart.
Vivian Suttley has seen the face of evil more than once in her young life. She’s on the run from the latest, a cruel man determined to force her to marry him. Whatever the whispers about the reclusive Ashworth, surely it’s nothing compared to the bleak, violent future she leaves behind.
Ashworth saved her once before, and he’s her last hope for refuge. Yet she wonders if she’s truly safer at Silverstone—or if she has just made the biggest mistake of her life.
Warning: This book contains a lot of sexual tension and several sexual scenes, have a fan ready!
==========
Review: I really liked this book! The emotional and sexual tension between Ashworth and Vivian is palpable and kept me reading. I wanted to know how this book would end and if the enemy would be caught. I wasn't disappointed.
Ashworth was scarred in a terrible fight years ago, having tried his best to save a woman who didn't deserve to die and taking her child to protect him from the evil that committed such a heinous crime and raising him as his own.
Vivian is running from a man she does not want to marry, after her father agrees to give her to him, since he found out his secret pleasure. Vivian runs to Ashworth, whose mother told her that she is seeking a wife for her son. Vivian remembers him as the man who saved her from certain ruin, pain and violence and refuses to budge from Ashworth's remote and ramshackle estate.
Ashworth does his best to scare Vivian off. She's in his way, disturbing his self-imposed punishment and peace, or torment, of mind. He believes he will harm, maybe kill, her. He is racked with guilt, thinking he killed his foster son's mother, and that he might do the same to her.
Vivian refuses to leave, because she fears the man her father ordered her to marry. She believes Ashworth is her salvation and so forges ahead in her quest to become his bride. She is attracted to him. Seriously attracted. But an attack from someone close to Ashworth makes her even more determined to stick it out and win his heart, his love and himself--the man Ashworth is.
I loved the action and Vivian's meetings with Ashworth's foster son. I could tell that she instantly liked him and that it was mutual. Vivian treats him, not as a bastard, but as a young boy who needs contact with others. One who would benefit from her love and attention. She also challenges Ashworth as to his keeping the boy a secret form everyone.
The tensions between the characters was well-done. When a ghost from Ashworth's past joins them at his estate, Vivian puts her resolve to the test and manages, barely, and through sheer grit, to convince said ghost of her love and devotion to Ashworth. He, however, does not apply himself as well, since he still believes himself unworthy.
After his past leaves, Vivian's present visits them and the final confrontation occurs. Secrets are revealed, an unrequited, and most unexpected, love is also revealed.
Check this book out, because it's a ride I think you'll like.
(This book was given to the reviewer for free from the author and these opinions are my own.)
Lord Ashworth is scarred by a night of terror years ago that left his face in ruins and his life in shreds. He hides in Silverstone Manor, using rumors that paint him as a horrible, murdering monster to keep visitors at bay. Yet he can’t shake the feeling that the rumors might be true. He tells himself it’s better this way. If his memories ever resurface, at least he will be the only one hurt by them.
The woman on his doorstep, however, simply refuses to fear him. That’s not only an oddity, it’s a threat to his secret…and his heart.
Vivian Suttley has seen the face of evil more than once in her young life. She’s on the run from the latest, a cruel man determined to force her to marry him. Whatever the whispers about the reclusive Ashworth, surely it’s nothing compared to the bleak, violent future she leaves behind.
Ashworth saved her once before, and he’s her last hope for refuge. Yet she wonders if she’s truly safer at Silverstone—or if she has just made the biggest mistake of her life.
Warning: This book contains a lot of sexual tension and several sexual scenes, have a fan ready!
==========
Review: I really liked this book! The emotional and sexual tension between Ashworth and Vivian is palpable and kept me reading. I wanted to know how this book would end and if the enemy would be caught. I wasn't disappointed.
Ashworth was scarred in a terrible fight years ago, having tried his best to save a woman who didn't deserve to die and taking her child to protect him from the evil that committed such a heinous crime and raising him as his own.
Vivian is running from a man she does not want to marry, after her father agrees to give her to him, since he found out his secret pleasure. Vivian runs to Ashworth, whose mother told her that she is seeking a wife for her son. Vivian remembers him as the man who saved her from certain ruin, pain and violence and refuses to budge from Ashworth's remote and ramshackle estate.
Ashworth does his best to scare Vivian off. She's in his way, disturbing his self-imposed punishment and peace, or torment, of mind. He believes he will harm, maybe kill, her. He is racked with guilt, thinking he killed his foster son's mother, and that he might do the same to her.
Vivian refuses to leave, because she fears the man her father ordered her to marry. She believes Ashworth is her salvation and so forges ahead in her quest to become his bride. She is attracted to him. Seriously attracted. But an attack from someone close to Ashworth makes her even more determined to stick it out and win his heart, his love and himself--the man Ashworth is.
I loved the action and Vivian's meetings with Ashworth's foster son. I could tell that she instantly liked him and that it was mutual. Vivian treats him, not as a bastard, but as a young boy who needs contact with others. One who would benefit from her love and attention. She also challenges Ashworth as to his keeping the boy a secret form everyone.
The tensions between the characters was well-done. When a ghost from Ashworth's past joins them at his estate, Vivian puts her resolve to the test and manages, barely, and through sheer grit, to convince said ghost of her love and devotion to Ashworth. He, however, does not apply himself as well, since he still believes himself unworthy.
After his past leaves, Vivian's present visits them and the final confrontation occurs. Secrets are revealed, an unrequited, and most unexpected, love is also revealed.
Check this book out, because it's a ride I think you'll like.
(This book was given to the reviewer for free from the author and these opinions are my own.)
December 17, 2011
Weird.
Started off really weird with too many unknowns that were supposed to keep you interested. I'm not a fan of questions being asked until the end when the answers come out. If I wanted that I would be reading mysteries, not romances.
So the story starts with Vivian Suttley at Lord Charles Ashworth's front door to answer his mothers advertisement to marry him. She's running from her abusive husband to be, whom her father gave her too. Knowing if she's caught, Martin will kill her, she seeks protection in Charles run down castle as his wife.
Yet chaos begins the moment she arrives, stirring his interest when for years he's considered himself a monster for the murder he believes he committed. His many secrets are too precious for her to find them out, yet he's constantly drown to her.
Adding on to Vivian is his ex-fiance, whom took off after 'that night' when he received his scar down his face, arrives at his door determined to marry him and gain her respect back in the town.
Now with two women in the castle, his secrets are harder to keep. Soon Vivian learns of his son Harry, whom for some reason is being kept hidden for fear he'll be taken away. The Monster that lives in the castle makes appearances and when Vivan begins suspecting his best friend, it only causes more tension.
Just as she's leaving after he won't commit, Martin shows up. The past history between Martin and Charles is not pleasant and when she saves Harry, it clicks in Charles head.
Fighting to the death, Charles saves his son and his future bride.
Much left out in the review, but the story is very complex and weird at times. It started out as a 2star, but did improve to a 3.
Started off really weird with too many unknowns that were supposed to keep you interested. I'm not a fan of questions being asked until the end when the answers come out. If I wanted that I would be reading mysteries, not romances.
So the story starts with Vivian Suttley at Lord Charles Ashworth's front door to answer his mothers advertisement to marry him. She's running from her abusive husband to be, whom her father gave her too. Knowing if she's caught, Martin will kill her, she seeks protection in Charles run down castle as his wife.
Yet chaos begins the moment she arrives, stirring his interest when for years he's considered himself a monster for the murder he believes he committed. His many secrets are too precious for her to find them out, yet he's constantly drown to her.
Adding on to Vivian is his ex-fiance, whom took off after 'that night' when he received his scar down his face, arrives at his door determined to marry him and gain her respect back in the town.
Now with two women in the castle, his secrets are harder to keep. Soon Vivian learns of his son Harry, whom for some reason is being kept hidden for fear he'll be taken away. The Monster that lives in the castle makes appearances and when Vivan begins suspecting his best friend, it only causes more tension.
Just as she's leaving after he won't commit, Martin shows up. The past history between Martin and Charles is not pleasant and when she saves Harry, it clicks in Charles head.
Fighting to the death, Charles saves his son and his future bride.
Much left out in the review, but the story is very complex and weird at times. It started out as a 2star, but did improve to a 3.
January 27, 2014
Vivian Suttley melarikan diri dari laki-laki jahat yang akan menikahinya dan dia tahu tempat yang paling aman untuknya. Silverstone Manor, tempat Lord Ashword tinggal dan mengucilkan diri. Terdengar kabar, Lord Ashword adalah seorang monster dan membutuhkan seorang istri. Tanpa ragu Vivian menawarkan dirinya untuk menikah dengan Lord Ashword, karena dia yakin Martin, laki-laki yang ingin menikahinya dengan paksa, lebih monster daripada Lord Ashword.
Apa yang membuat Vivian begitu kukuh untuk menikah dengannya? Lord Ashword mempunyai masa lalu yang kelam, dan dia yakin selain karena wajahnya yang buruk, dia juga adalah seorang monster yang mampu membunuh seseorang. Dia ingin menyimpan semua luka dan rahasianya dalam kastilnya di Silverstone Manor.
Vivian tidak bisa tidak jatuh cinta pada Lord Ashword, dan dia juga harus segera menikah dengan pria itu sebelum Martin menemukannya. Vivian berusaha meyakinkan Lord Ashword bahwa dia bukanlah monster yang selalu pria itu yakini, tapi tragedi yang melukai wajahnya itu tidak bisa dengan mudah dihilangkan. Dan lagi, ada sesuatu yang lain yang disembunyikan pria itu dalam kastilnya.
--
HisRom yang mengadaptasi cerita Beauty and The Beast ini berunsur misteri. Aku tidak terlalu antusias saat membacanya, yang membuatku bertahan sewaktu membacanya adalah rasa penasaran akan terpecahnya misteri. Hampir sempat ingin cepat-cepat lompat ke bab-bab akhir, saking bosannya. Di pertengahan bab, aku sudah bisa nebak sih siapa yang sebenernya membunuh Mary dan meneror Vivian di kastil. Walaupun begitu, aku suka chemistry Vivian dan Charles di bab-bab awal, sewaktu Vivian tempting si Beast agar mau menikahinya.
Lumayan sih buat menambah variasi Beauty and The Beast retelling.
Apa yang membuat Vivian begitu kukuh untuk menikah dengannya? Lord Ashword mempunyai masa lalu yang kelam, dan dia yakin selain karena wajahnya yang buruk, dia juga adalah seorang monster yang mampu membunuh seseorang. Dia ingin menyimpan semua luka dan rahasianya dalam kastilnya di Silverstone Manor.
Vivian tidak bisa tidak jatuh cinta pada Lord Ashword, dan dia juga harus segera menikah dengan pria itu sebelum Martin menemukannya. Vivian berusaha meyakinkan Lord Ashword bahwa dia bukanlah monster yang selalu pria itu yakini, tapi tragedi yang melukai wajahnya itu tidak bisa dengan mudah dihilangkan. Dan lagi, ada sesuatu yang lain yang disembunyikan pria itu dalam kastilnya.
--
HisRom yang mengadaptasi cerita Beauty and The Beast ini berunsur misteri. Aku tidak terlalu antusias saat membacanya, yang membuatku bertahan sewaktu membacanya adalah rasa penasaran akan terpecahnya misteri. Hampir sempat ingin cepat-cepat lompat ke bab-bab akhir, saking bosannya. Di pertengahan bab, aku sudah bisa nebak sih siapa yang sebenernya membunuh Mary dan meneror Vivian di kastil. Walaupun begitu, aku suka chemistry Vivian dan Charles di bab-bab awal, sewaktu Vivian tempting si Beast agar mau menikahinya.
Lumayan sih buat menambah variasi Beauty and The Beast retelling.
January 20, 2015
I was expecting to give this book a 5 star review. I was hooked almost the minute I started reading and couldn't put it down till 3 in the morning.
I love that Vivian doesn't care about the scar, (but how they would have fallen in love if she had I don't know) and how Charles slowly seemed to be able to get intimate with her for longer periods of time before having his vision.
The "monster" was another favorite part for me. I was really curious what was happening, because it seemed like he had a split personality. Lover in her dreams and terror while awake. I think that was concluded well, although the sleep walking was just a skimmed over idea at the end of the novel.
The reason I'm not giving this book 5 stars is because the ending was a bit disappointing for me. Everything was wrapped up in the last 3 or so chapters, and I feel like it wasn't written as well. Vivian goes from leaving the castle because she isn't loved, to 2 chapters later living with her husband in London. Not a terrible ending, but not 5 stars in my opinion.
The one thing I don't understand though, is why was it so important he marry? Was it just for Harry? Because at the beginning of the book, it almost seemed like there was a curse or some really important reason that Charles marry, or else something terrible would happen.
I was really excited for finding out how Vivian had met Charles. I thought it would have to do with when he got his scar, but how they actually met was kind of boring, so that was disappointing.
Overall a really fun read, I definitely recommend it
I love that Vivian doesn't care about the scar, (but how they would have fallen in love if she had I don't know) and how Charles slowly seemed to be able to get intimate with her for longer periods of time before having his vision.
The "monster" was another favorite part for me. I was really curious what was happening, because it seemed like he had a split personality. Lover in her dreams and terror while awake. I think that was concluded well, although the sleep walking was just a skimmed over idea at the end of the novel.
The reason I'm not giving this book 5 stars is because the ending was a bit disappointing for me. Everything was wrapped up in the last 3 or so chapters, and I feel like it wasn't written as well. Vivian goes from leaving the castle because she isn't loved, to 2 chapters later living with her husband in London. Not a terrible ending, but not 5 stars in my opinion.
The one thing I don't understand though, is why was it so important he marry? Was it just for Harry? Because at the beginning of the book, it almost seemed like there was a curse or some really important reason that Charles marry, or else something terrible would happen.
I was really excited for finding out how Vivian had met Charles. I thought it would have to do with when he got his scar, but how they actually met was kind of boring, so that was disappointing.
Overall a really fun read, I definitely recommend it
February 12, 2017
Viviane is on the run from her abusive finance, Martin, and she runs straight to Charles, a reclusive murderer. Charles lives in a run down mansion outside of town, and the locals call him a murderer because he was found with blood on his hands and a dead prostitute at his feet. Unchaperoned, Viviane takes residance in his house and hopes to convince him to marry her. I didn't find the characters interesting, the cumbling mansion had more personality. Charles and Viviane have secerts but don't communicate at all. He sneeks into her room at night and touches her while she's sleeping, I didn't find this romantic but creepy. Martin searches for Vivian vigorously, and I didn't need scenes from his perspective. He was always horney and thinking of hurting women. Katherine, Charles' ex-fiance, was childish and cruel. I didn't like the characters and didn't care what happened to them or the secrets they had.
July 20, 2010
I have been craving some kind of reinterpretation of a fairy tale, and with so many options, this is where I began. I found this book drew me in almost immediately, jumping in mid-scene. Our two main characters have already met, yet we the reader are still figuring out the e extenuating circumstances. Though by the end of the story, I didn't feel it was that close a relation to Beauty and the Beast - perhaps a distant cousin, twice removed.
Overall, there is a gothic novel vibe to this book, with stormy moors, cold and drafty manors, and aggressive, misunderstood males.
I couldn't help but think of Wuthering Heights, especially when the "other woman" was named Catherine.
Read it on a stormy evening, tucked up in bed with a cup of tea...
Overall, there is a gothic novel vibe to this book, with stormy moors, cold and drafty manors, and aggressive, misunderstood males.
I couldn't help but think of Wuthering Heights, especially when the "other woman" was named Catherine.
Read it on a stormy evening, tucked up in bed with a cup of tea...
October 29, 2012
I'm a sucker for a tortured hero who pulls himself from society in order to protect others from himself. Of course, in these type of books, someone other than the hero is behind the evil that is happening and convincing the hero that he is the beast. Beauty Tempts the Beast is no different, Lord Ashworth blacks out and thinks he's done horrible things and hides himself away in his dark castle. When Vivian Suttley appears on his doorstep and invites herself to stay, Lord Ashworth is terrified that he'll hurt her. Thus starts a romance that is both sweet and touching. I really liked Lord Ashworth and felt Vivian was the perfect heroine for him.
This is the first book I've read by Leslie Dicken but it won't be the last.
This is the first book I've read by Leslie Dicken but it won't be the last.
February 25, 2018
Angst and trauma! (3.5 stars)
Re-read in 2018, taking it off the angst shelf. There is a lot of intrigue and mystery, but not really much angst, at least not in the way I prefer; (3 stars)
Re-read in 2018, taking it off the angst shelf. There is a lot of intrigue and mystery, but not really much angst, at least not in the way I prefer; (3 stars)
March 11, 2015
Best retelling of beauty and the beast I've read so far. I loved the historical writing of this tale and the mysteries that kept you constantly on your feet wondering who really did it?
I lived the passion between the two characters, Vivian and Charles.
both had a story tell and secrets to hide from rather but I loved the gradual bond the characters found with either. and the authors brilliant decisions of when to leak information at certain times.
overall this was a great read, I'd highly recommend it to beauty and the beast retelling lovers.
I lived the passion between the two characters, Vivian and Charles.
both had a story tell and secrets to hide from rather but I loved the gradual bond the characters found with either. and the authors brilliant decisions of when to leak information at certain times.
overall this was a great read, I'd highly recommend it to beauty and the beast retelling lovers.
June 10, 2015
I love Beauty and the Beast themed novels and this one did not disappoint! I loved the characters.... both Vivian And Lord Ashworth were appealing, well developed and complex. I was pulled into the story right from the start and was riveted the whole way through. This story had it all - a tortured hero, an abused heroine, mystery, intrigue and hot and steamy passion. It was the story of two people filled with secret pain who come together to heal one another. A very emotional read that I thoroughly enjoyed and devoured. I will be looking to read more from Leslie Dicken.
June 13, 2016
I took a chance on this one and it was a nice little surprise. Not quite your Beauty & the Beast story, but it's definitely the theme. I'd classifiy it as more of a gothic mystery. What is haunting our hero? Is it supernatural? Who or what is behind it? I didn't really put it together, in full anyway, until about 80% so it kept you guessing, with a few red herrings thrown in to keep you on your toes.
It was certainly not world changing writing, but thoroughly enjoyable and kept me turning the pages.
August 18, 2010
3.5 stars ... it's been a while since I read it, so I'm fuzzy on some of the details. As I recall, I think there were some grammatical issues/lack of line editing, which is really down to the publisher, but they were distracting. I found it a bit uneven in terms of characterization, and some of the sex scenes were a bit awkward.
Those were my major quibbles. I liked the suspense, the overall story, and the fact that there were multiple antagonists, and thought the resolution was satisfying.
Those were my major quibbles. I liked the suspense, the overall story, and the fact that there were multiple antagonists, and thought the resolution was satisfying.
July 19, 2011
This book was not what I was expecting. It is very different then the fairy tale. Same basic plot, however it is very spicy, I mean there should be a R rating for this book. But it is well written and intriguing.
January 7, 2015
Ok, so I'm obsessed with Beauty and the Beast retellings. I snatched this off of Amazon without realizing it was erotica. That in itself isn't a bad thing if it's well done, but unfortunately this one was not. Do not add this to your shelf of fairy tale retellings.
October 22, 2015
Absolutely boring historical romance . The heroine is boring and not likable. There is no chemistry or real connection , I didn't feel the love was believable . Too cliche and predictable . Skip this one!
August 20, 2009
I don't think I was particularly sure what was happening in this story. No tension to suck me in or anything like that.
July 11, 2014
Has a slight gothic feel to it. The hero, Lord Ashworth, was scarred and has become reclusive at Silverstone Manor. But then Vivian Suttley shows up in hopes that he will give her refuge.
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