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Sinclair and Raven #1
Sensing Danger
Fate has determined she will protect him. He will fight her every step of the way.
Legend says the Sinclairs heightened senses are a result of a long ago pact between them and the powerful Raven family. To Honor and Protect is their creed, but the current Duke of Raven doesn’t make their task easy.
Arrogant and aloof, James, Duke of Raven, is determined to forge his own path and to hell with folk tales that his ancestors created. But when the breathtaking Eden Sinclair saves his life by risking her own, their past resurfaces, and with it comes the uncomfortable realization that they are linked by more than history.
Eden is forced to see the man behind the cool, haughty façade when she must use her special abilities to keep him safe. His suspicion of her soon turns into something else, something far more dangerous. Eden is torn between duty and self-protection. Does she have the strength to fight fate, in order to protect her own heart?
From USA Today Bestseller Wendy Vella comes an exciting Regency series about legend, love and destiny, with a hint of magic.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2016
1437 people are currently reading
912 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Vella
85 books819 followersWendy Vella is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of historical romances filled with mystery, intrigue, unconventional heroines, and dashing heroes.
Connect with Wendy in her Facebook reader group facebook.com/groups/wendyvellareaders or sign up for her reader newsletter at WendyVella.com to get goodies, exclusive excerpts and behind-the-scenes peeks.
Wendy also writes small town contemporary romances under the name Lani Blake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
February 20, 2023
Read; 6/15/20
Reread: 2/20/23
Great!!
A very different but still likable. I'm amazed a book with so many characters can still suck you into the MC romance. I also love how the h saves the H. That rarely happens in hr books.
Conclusion: This is Wendy Vella at her best! I can't wait to read her next book in the series.
Reread: 2/20/23
Great!!
A very different but still likable. I'm amazed a book with so many characters can still suck you into the MC romance. I also love how the h saves the H. That rarely happens in hr books.
Conclusion: This is Wendy Vella at her best! I can't wait to read her next book in the series.
April 26, 2018
More like 1.5. Boring. Ugh I've been reading so many mediocre books lately
February 22, 2023
Good read with likeable characters.
Story kept me interested and has humour
Legend says that the Sinclair family are protecters of the Raven family’s.
One night Eden Sinclair saves James Ravens life
Story kept me interested and has humour
Legend says that the Sinclair family are protecters of the Raven family’s.
One night Eden Sinclair saves James Ravens life
June 26, 2019
OMG, this is fantastic. It gripped me right from the start. Wow, I couldn't believe the opening chapter, it was so bloody thrilling. I can't explain how this story made me feel, but I'm so glad I read it.
This is an excellently written piece of perfection.
5*****
This is an excellently written piece of perfection.
5*****
March 14, 2021
James is an unsmiling loner whose evil dad kicked the bucket not long before the story starts. Turns out that dear old dad had a second kid that he never told James about. Samantha is a great little sister but she too is emotionally scarred by their dirtbag dad, the Duke.
James also happens to have an enemy who is determined to wreak revenge upon him and those he loves.
Then Eden Sinclair saves his life.
Eden is the girl next door... sorta. Eden and her family are not average. The Sinclairs each have a secret strength/curse handed down over generations.
Once Eden saves his life, James learns to be one of a group, whether he wants to or not, with the help of Eden and her siblings.
It was still enjoyable but kinda stalled in places. I wish James' character had been fleshed out more. I didn't really feel how he thought. He would monologue in his mind about how he is best off alone but it just seemed like empty rhetoric that he didn't actually believe.
Once again I liked the byplay between the siblings.
So it was a cute read but book 3 was better imho.
Safety is good
James also happens to have an enemy who is determined to wreak revenge upon him and those he loves.
Then Eden Sinclair saves his life.
Eden is the girl next door... sorta. Eden and her family are not average. The Sinclairs each have a secret strength/curse handed down over generations.
Once Eden saves his life, James learns to be one of a group, whether he wants to or not, with the help of Eden and her siblings.
It was still enjoyable but kinda stalled in places. I wish James' character had been fleshed out more. I didn't really feel how he thought. He would monologue in his mind about how he is best off alone but it just seemed like empty rhetoric that he didn't actually believe.
Once again I liked the byplay between the siblings.
So it was a cute read but book 3 was better imho.
Safety is good
February 16, 2023
Extra special Senses
Paranormal, kind of, mystery, kind of, and Romance, more of! It was cute but that did get a little bored reading it. The Sinclair's have extra special hearing, seeing, smelling and tasting senses but only one of those per siblings. It was quite unusual and I liked the premise. The Duke was a great hero who went from closed off and dark to deeply loving. It was good to see him change and I really liked the Sinclair family dynamics play out. I will read on for sure.
Paranormal, kind of, mystery, kind of, and Romance, more of! It was cute but that did get a little bored reading it. The Sinclair's have extra special hearing, seeing, smelling and tasting senses but only one of those per siblings. It was quite unusual and I liked the premise. The Duke was a great hero who went from closed off and dark to deeply loving. It was good to see him change and I really liked the Sinclair family dynamics play out. I will read on for sure.
June 28, 2021
Suspenseful & Intriguing Mystery and Romance
Love the special attributes of the family members of the Sinclairs. Both families have had trials and tribulations based on the link between them. Wonderful time period, fanciful characters with special inherent skills, nicely paced mystery and romance to boot. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
Love the special attributes of the family members of the Sinclairs. Both families have had trials and tribulations based on the link between them. Wonderful time period, fanciful characters with special inherent skills, nicely paced mystery and romance to boot. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
September 27, 2020
Suspense and Romance
My first venture into Wendy Vella's writing, and I was very well entertained. She has a way with characterization, and with scene setting that made this story very enjoyable. I particularly liked the way the Sinclair family livened up the Duke of Raven's drab life, well told!
My first venture into Wendy Vella's writing, and I was very well entertained. She has a way with characterization, and with scene setting that made this story very enjoyable. I particularly liked the way the Sinclair family livened up the Duke of Raven's drab life, well told!
September 13, 2021
3.5 Stars. The second half had some convenient plot turns that just didn't hold up for me. The big reveals lost their oomph because of it. Still the characters and their interactions made reading this one worthwhile. I'll be giving the next in the series a go.
February 15, 2019
This is one of my favorite Regency series. I enjoy everything about these - the strong characters (both male and female), the adventure/suspense, the story and the writing! Other than some frustrating -yet minor- points of editing (verbs typed in the wrong tense, incorrect homophones, etc.) these are top notch in every way. I recommend reading in order as you can watch the overarching story unfold that way, but each book in the series is a stand-alone and complete story.
September 14, 2020
Love, Love, Love it
I love historical romance and this one did not disappoint. I laughed and I cried. It poured from the pages how close this family was and how mischievous they could be. Love,Love,Loved it.
I love historical romance and this one did not disappoint. I laughed and I cried. It poured from the pages how close this family was and how mischievous they could be. Love,Love,Loved it.
September 29, 2020
The book started off with a bang and I was totally in love with the story. Then I got about half way through the book and it just dragged. The ending came a bit out of nowhere. I enjoyed it enough that I will read more of the series later.
July 10, 2018
Can you go wrong with Wendy Vella? I never have.
October 11, 2020
fantastic
I've never read a book by this author before . but she is absolutely brilliant . a great read from start to finish
I've never read a book by this author before . but she is absolutely brilliant . a great read from start to finish
February 8, 2023
| HRBC | 2023 | February |
Mmhh...that one wasn't for me. At first I really liked the premise of the story. I liked how quickly the story picked up, the big Sinclair family, and the setting at a coastal town, but then it fizzled out.
I didn't like the dynamic between the two MCs and all the "twists" of their relationship. I just couldn't really detect a continuity of their love story. All their conflict appeared silly and partly out of the blue. They went from obsessed to upset with each other in a blink of an eye. Raven's entire "I can't love anyone"-crying felt unfitting.
Also, I found the whole mystery plot rather predictable and the additional family drama slowed the book down quite a bit. A lot of scenes just felt like filler.
And the younger characters just were way too mature; talking and behaving like adults while the adults acted like giant babies. On top of that, I didn't 100% enjoy the writing style.
I am not sure if I will read the remaining books of the series.
Mmhh...that one wasn't for me. At first I really liked the premise of the story. I liked how quickly the story picked up, the big Sinclair family, and the setting at a coastal town, but then it fizzled out.
I didn't like the dynamic between the two MCs and all the "twists" of their relationship. I just couldn't really detect a continuity of their love story. All their conflict appeared silly and partly out of the blue. They went from obsessed to upset with each other in a blink of an eye. Raven's entire "I can't love anyone"-crying felt unfitting.
Also, I found the whole mystery plot rather predictable and the additional family drama slowed the book down quite a bit. A lot of scenes just felt like filler.
And the younger characters just were way too mature; talking and behaving like adults while the adults acted like giant babies. On top of that, I didn't 100% enjoy the writing style.
I am not sure if I will read the remaining books of the series.
June 26, 2021
Intriguing historical romance
I enjoyed this story of Eden and Raven and how their love grew and changed them. The mystery of who was out to kill Raven added to the story. I liked the added intrigue of the Sinclair's heightened senses. Satisfying ending.
I enjoyed this story of Eden and Raven and how their love grew and changed them. The mystery of who was out to kill Raven added to the story. I liked the added intrigue of the Sinclair's heightened senses. Satisfying ending.
June 24, 2021
Captivating
The relationship between the Raven and Sinclair families takes on a whole new dimension after nearly 450 years or more. The secrets, the personalities and sheer presence of the characters themselves will keep one glued to this book.
A real page turner for sure.
The relationship between the Raven and Sinclair families takes on a whole new dimension after nearly 450 years or more. The secrets, the personalities and sheer presence of the characters themselves will keep one glued to this book.
A real page turner for sure.
June 21, 2021
What a wonderful surprise!
This is the first book by Ms. Bella that I have read. It was in fact a very wonderful surprise. Her gift of story made me laugh . It also kept me reading to see how the Sinclair family makes their way through the world with their special gifts. Throw in a Duke who has never had a reason to love before and you are in for a fantastic ride. Enjoy!
This is the first book by Ms. Bella that I have read. It was in fact a very wonderful surprise. Her gift of story made me laugh . It also kept me reading to see how the Sinclair family makes their way through the world with their special gifts. Throw in a Duke who has never had a reason to love before and you are in for a fantastic ride. Enjoy!
June 20, 2021
A great Story from Wendy Vella again!
This is an amazing romantic fantasy story. Wendy Vella is so brilliant in making a story like this that readers will be brought to believe it's real. 😍😍😍
This is an amazing romantic fantasy story. Wendy Vella is so brilliant in making a story like this that readers will be brought to believe it's real. 😍😍😍
December 14, 2016
3.5 stars
I don't know how I came across "Sensing Danger" but I did and the blurb sounded interesting, although the cover made me think of a "medieval highlander romance" and not a more or less traditional regency romances. And because it was available through Kindle Unlimited I gave it a try and I liked "Sensing Danger". It won't be a favorite of mine, but I definitely didn't regret reading it. I haven't read a single historical romance in the last few weeks (how strange!), so this was a nice change. The paranormal elements were light, very(!) light, and could've been stronger (like in the "Darkest London" series by Kristen Callihan - I'm thinking of the first book where the historical romance elements were stronger than in the other books). Overall I liked and enjoyed the story, but there was nothing special or memorable about it, although it was entertaining. Thankfully the story wasn't focused on the physical attraction between James and Eden, so the characters got the chance to fall in love before they made out. There could've been more private/intimate (I don't mean kissing/making love!) scenes between Eden and James, but the romance was nice. Not great, but nice. The romance lacked depth, it was more like a "soulmate" kind of romance, which I think will be a theme of this series!, but I could see why Eden and James fell in love.
-tbc-
I don't know how I came across "Sensing Danger" but I did and the blurb sounded interesting, although the cover made me think of a "medieval highlander romance" and not a more or less traditional regency romances. And because it was available through Kindle Unlimited I gave it a try and I liked "Sensing Danger". It won't be a favorite of mine, but I definitely didn't regret reading it. I haven't read a single historical romance in the last few weeks (how strange!), so this was a nice change. The paranormal elements were light, very(!) light, and could've been stronger (like in the "Darkest London" series by Kristen Callihan - I'm thinking of the first book where the historical romance elements were stronger than in the other books). Overall I liked and enjoyed the story, but there was nothing special or memorable about it, although it was entertaining. Thankfully the story wasn't focused on the physical attraction between James and Eden, so the characters got the chance to fall in love before they made out. There could've been more private/intimate (I don't mean kissing/making love!) scenes between Eden and James, but the romance was nice. Not great, but nice. The romance lacked depth, it was more like a "soulmate" kind of romance, which I think will be a theme of this series!, but I could see why Eden and James fell in love.
-tbc-
April 12, 2019
Sensing Danger is a great historical romance with a little supernatural flair by Wendy Vella. Ms. Vella has delivered a well-written book and filled it with phenomenal characters. Here's where I confess, I read some of the books from this series out of order. I must say, I wish I had read this first, it's a fantastic kickoff for the series.
The Sinclair family has heightened senses, legend says because they once saved the head of the Raven family and a pact was made. James, Duke of Raven, is attacked, tied and tossed off a cliff into the ocean. Eden has a heightened sense of hearing and overheard the plan. She got into the water as quickly as she could and waited for James to hit the water. After cutting his ropes they helped each other to safety. James and Eden's story is packed with drama, humor, action, sizzle and suspense...all the things you want in a historical romance. I loved this book from the first page to the last and look forward to reading more from Wendy Vella in the future. Sensing Danger is book 1 of A Sinclair And Raven Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
The Sinclair family has heightened senses, legend says because they once saved the head of the Raven family and a pact was made. James, Duke of Raven, is attacked, tied and tossed off a cliff into the ocean. Eden has a heightened sense of hearing and overheard the plan. She got into the water as quickly as she could and waited for James to hit the water. After cutting his ropes they helped each other to safety. James and Eden's story is packed with drama, humor, action, sizzle and suspense...all the things you want in a historical romance. I loved this book from the first page to the last and look forward to reading more from Wendy Vella in the future. Sensing Danger is book 1 of A Sinclair And Raven Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
May 10, 2021
I have read other Wendy Vella books and enjoyed them. I usually stay away from paranormal historical romance but all of the 4 stars intrigued me.
So I read book 2 first and LOVED it. Like couldn't put it down, read in 2 hours, LOVED it. So I eagerly picked up this one after. This book was so boring. I could barely get through it. The plot for book 1 and book 2 are nearly identical. I had a really hard time caring about this couple. There was a lot of dialogue with not a lot happening. And the villain literally pops up in the 2nd to the last chapter. He had more time in book 2 in the character's internal thoughts than he did in his own book.
I am hoping this book was just a rough start. She clearly finds her groove in book 2 which is clever and fun.
So I read book 2 first and LOVED it. Like couldn't put it down, read in 2 hours, LOVED it. So I eagerly picked up this one after. This book was so boring. I could barely get through it. The plot for book 1 and book 2 are nearly identical. I had a really hard time caring about this couple. There was a lot of dialogue with not a lot happening. And the villain literally pops up in the 2nd to the last chapter. He had more time in book 2 in the character's internal thoughts than he did in his own book.
I am hoping this book was just a rough start. She clearly finds her groove in book 2 which is clever and fun.
September 27, 2022
Nice touch of paranormal
Outstanding story development! Kept on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Looking forward to the next installment.
Outstanding story development! Kept on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Looking forward to the next installment.
January 11, 2021
Finding oneself
The first book in the Raven/Sinclair series was excellent. Loved the story of James and Eden. Eden was riding along the cliffs when she heard men talking about throwing someone into the water. She new she needed to act fast in order to save him.
She does not realized she saved the Duke of Ravens life until she got him back to her home.
This is the 2nd time a Sinclair has saved James like, Devon did it during the war. A wonderful story that brings these 2 families together to solidify their bond!
The first book in the Raven/Sinclair series was excellent. Loved the story of James and Eden. Eden was riding along the cliffs when she heard men talking about throwing someone into the water. She new she needed to act fast in order to save him.
She does not realized she saved the Duke of Ravens life until she got him back to her home.
This is the 2nd time a Sinclair has saved James like, Devon did it during the war. A wonderful story that brings these 2 families together to solidify their bond!
January 17, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyable every time I read it.
—
Well that was fun! Formulaic, as many of these are, but with some fun tweaks.
—
Well that was fun! Formulaic, as many of these are, but with some fun tweaks.
October 17, 2020
Wonderful first book in a great series!
I read a few others and came back to the beginning. I love the story and the book. The premise of the series is awesome. Very well done!
I read a few others and came back to the beginning. I love the story and the book. The premise of the series is awesome. Very well done!
January 17, 2021
First in a fabulous series.
February 6, 2023
An entertaining start to the series
This is an entertaining read with strong characters and a compelling plot. A good start to the series. Recommended for fans of the genre.
This is an entertaining read with strong characters and a compelling plot. A good start to the series. Recommended for fans of the genre.
February 9, 2022
Eden Sinclair and her family have heightened senses, which is a good thing, because it allows her to save Lord James Raven's life. Eden finds herself drawn to James and vice versa. When the Sinclairs head to London for the season, James follows them with his sister. Sparks fly and danger lurks as James learns the meaning of love while trying to save himself and those around him.
I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it for anyone who likes Victorian romances and boisterous families.
I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it for anyone who likes Victorian romances and boisterous families.
January 16, 2021
As a historical romance, I enjoyed it. The scenes moved well. The mystery carried well throughout the story. The villain was hidden/disguised behind smoke and mirrors, I had no idea. The angst and tension were most excellent as we rushed to foil the machinations of the evil one. The author did a great job introducing characters that will be featured in upcoming books. Note: I peeked ahead and looked at the future pairings so I would know whom to watch. That was exciting.
*** This review may contain spoilers*** Rating: MA: due to adult themes: violence and murder attempts. Trigger warnings: discussions of child abuse, kidnappings, descriptive, and graphic sex scenes. It was not what I consider a bodice ripper, but what do I know? I would not recommend this for a young reader.
Paraphrased from the prologue of the book: ‘In the year 1335, Baron Sinclair saved the life of the Duke of Raven. King Edward III, grateful to the Baron for saving the life of his wise counsel, granted the land at the base of Raven Mountain to the Sinclair family. In the eyes of the King, the Sinclair family was now the official protector of the Ravens. Thus, the Sinclair family Creed: To honor and protect the Raven Family.’
To date, there are 8 books in this series. I’ve waited to start reading them until I could get my hands on several in a row. I hate to wait for a book to come out. I appreciated that some of the books were a free offer on Amazon. Each book will feature a love interest for each of the siblings and relations of the Raven family. Each features the continued quest of the Sinclair siblings to ‘Honor and Protect the Ravens.’ The younger children will have plenty of time to grow up and have their own stories later. In the meantime, they can sit on the back burner for a while. I look forward to book 2 in this series and highly recommend this for those who like a little paranormal in their love story.
The first book in a series is always difficult as the author has to establish the background story, introduce all the characters [seven siblings], and hook the reader within a few chapters. I thought the author, Wendy Vella, did an excellent job of wrangling all the above and especially all the siblings. It was a bit chaotic there for a bit but what Vella did to demonstrate the powers of the siblings was amazing. I was hooked immediately. I love a bit of paranormal in a love story.
Something happened back in 1335 that was hinted at but not revealed in book 1. The Sinclair family had an ‘extra sense’ of things and they used those gifts/powers to protect the Raven family. This was no spoiler as it was mentioned in the book blurb. In the case of this story, I felt the title was mislabeled. ‘Sensing’ danger was a trail all the Sinclair siblings had in common; however, that was not the ‘gift’ that Eden [our featured heroine] possessed. Of course, that was the author’s choice. She could have been referring to all the Sinclair family.
What I liked: all the siblings, especially the younger children. The main thread of the story was how the siblings rallied around each other in spite of their horrid father… and, OMG, he was horrid. In fact, none of the fathers were worth spitting at. The way they treated their children was awful. As the siblings grew, they protected the younger children. Overcoming hurt and pain of their childhood forged the family bond between the siblings. This might be difficult for some readers. However, they did manage to overcome their hurt and emotional pain.
What I didn’t like: I had a hard time liking the Duke. Vella did an excellent job of showing his growth throughout the story. I will admit that I liked him better at the end of the story than I did at the beginning. However, his vacillating back and forth gave me whiplash. I also didn’t like or appreciate the way he treated the heroine as it rang as being abusive. That made the sex scenes between them not very romantic. *** spoiler*** In fact, in one scene she kept saying ‘no’ and he wouldn’t listen. I did not appreciate that one bit. At that point, it felt like it was all about him and was a major disrespect toward her. Especially with her family nearby. With their heightened senses… how could they not know what was going on with their sister in the next room? Really??? I think not. *** end spoiler***
*** This review may contain spoilers*** Rating: MA: due to adult themes: violence and murder attempts. Trigger warnings: discussions of child abuse, kidnappings, descriptive, and graphic sex scenes. It was not what I consider a bodice ripper, but what do I know? I would not recommend this for a young reader.
Paraphrased from the prologue of the book: ‘In the year 1335, Baron Sinclair saved the life of the Duke of Raven. King Edward III, grateful to the Baron for saving the life of his wise counsel, granted the land at the base of Raven Mountain to the Sinclair family. In the eyes of the King, the Sinclair family was now the official protector of the Ravens. Thus, the Sinclair family Creed: To honor and protect the Raven Family.’
To date, there are 8 books in this series. I’ve waited to start reading them until I could get my hands on several in a row. I hate to wait for a book to come out. I appreciated that some of the books were a free offer on Amazon. Each book will feature a love interest for each of the siblings and relations of the Raven family. Each features the continued quest of the Sinclair siblings to ‘Honor and Protect the Ravens.’ The younger children will have plenty of time to grow up and have their own stories later. In the meantime, they can sit on the back burner for a while. I look forward to book 2 in this series and highly recommend this for those who like a little paranormal in their love story.
The first book in a series is always difficult as the author has to establish the background story, introduce all the characters [seven siblings], and hook the reader within a few chapters. I thought the author, Wendy Vella, did an excellent job of wrangling all the above and especially all the siblings. It was a bit chaotic there for a bit but what Vella did to demonstrate the powers of the siblings was amazing. I was hooked immediately. I love a bit of paranormal in a love story.
Something happened back in 1335 that was hinted at but not revealed in book 1. The Sinclair family had an ‘extra sense’ of things and they used those gifts/powers to protect the Raven family. This was no spoiler as it was mentioned in the book blurb. In the case of this story, I felt the title was mislabeled. ‘Sensing’ danger was a trail all the Sinclair siblings had in common; however, that was not the ‘gift’ that Eden [our featured heroine] possessed. Of course, that was the author’s choice. She could have been referring to all the Sinclair family.
What I liked: all the siblings, especially the younger children. The main thread of the story was how the siblings rallied around each other in spite of their horrid father… and, OMG, he was horrid. In fact, none of the fathers were worth spitting at. The way they treated their children was awful. As the siblings grew, they protected the younger children. Overcoming hurt and pain of their childhood forged the family bond between the siblings. This might be difficult for some readers. However, they did manage to overcome their hurt and emotional pain.
What I didn’t like: I had a hard time liking the Duke. Vella did an excellent job of showing his growth throughout the story. I will admit that I liked him better at the end of the story than I did at the beginning. However, his vacillating back and forth gave me whiplash. I also didn’t like or appreciate the way he treated the heroine as it rang as being abusive. That made the sex scenes between them not very romantic. *** spoiler*** In fact, in one scene she kept saying ‘no’ and he wouldn’t listen. I did not appreciate that one bit. At that point, it felt like it was all about him and was a major disrespect toward her. Especially with her family nearby. With their heightened senses… how could they not know what was going on with their sister in the next room? Really??? I think not. *** end spoiler***
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