Smitten by Books

A MAN CONDEMNED . . .

Falsely accused of murder and mute from a near-fatal beating, Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne has escaped from Bedlam. With the Crown’s soldiers at his heels, he finds refuge in the ruins of a pleasure garden, toiling as a simple gardener. But when a vivacious young woman moves in, he’s quickly driven to distraction . . .

A DESPERATE WOMAN . . .

London’s premier actress, Lily Stump, is down on her luck when she’s forced to move into a scorched theatre with her maid and small son. But she and her tiny family aren’t the only inhabitants-a silent, hulking beast of a man also calls the charred ruins home. Yet when she catches him reading her plays, Lily realizes there’s more to this man than meets the eye.

OUT OF ASH, DESIRE FLARES

Though scorching passion draws them together, Apollo knows that Lily is keeping secrets. When his past catches up with him, he’s forced to make a choice: his love for Lily . . . or the explosive truth that will set him free.

The last three books in the Maiden Lane series:

 

Bless historical romance writers and their out-of-the-box approach. I’m not joking, if you think the best books are all about the viscounts, dukes, and earls I’ve got news for you. Wait, I think I’ve already shared similar sentiments about another recent historical release. *shakes head* No matter. What matters is this is my first Elizabeth Hoyt book. Yes, I can hear the gasps of horror even now, and maybe a few lovely readers agreeing with me on being behind with certain authors.

Let’s talk actresses as heroines. I haven’t seen too many of them in recent years, and Hoyt’s Lily Stump, or as the Maiden Lane world knows her, Robin Goodfellow, is wonderful. She’s not a blushing virgin and is realistic about her life and her future. She wants to act, to perform, and to raise her son. Stumbling upon a beast of a man, who for whatever reason attracts beyond all common sense, isn’t part of the plan. I loved reading about this strong heroine who’s been in some rough places.

The hero embodies the phrase ‘a rose by any other name would smell as sweet’. Through the course of this book, Apollo, Viscount Kilbourne, is called many names, by many people, yet he proves how a man can still be the same regardless of the name he’s given. I really loved this ‘beast’. He starts out rough, rugged, like the book itself. The good news: I didn’t need to read previous books in this series to know what’s going on.

That being said, if you don’t enjoy a little suspense with your historical then this book won’t appeal. Hoyt has an underlying theme or threat to not only the hero and the heroine. The wonder is how this author ties up all the loose ends, which was impressive.

Secondary characters play a big role in the story as well, and naturally steal the stage at different points. Ultimately Hoyt’s characters kept the pages turning, from Apollo, his sister, her husband ‘the ass’, Lily, and her maid. It was easy to not put this book down until I finished, and even read through the excerpt for the next in the Maiden Lane series.

Overall, this book is for those who like books out of the ordinary mold. I would recommend this book for those who enjoy Lorraine Heath. Now to go back and read all the gems in this series.

Reviewed by Landra
Heat Level: Hot