Smitten by Books

Release Date: Feb 27, 2018
Series: The Wagers of Sin
Book: 1
Heat Level: Sensual
Publisher: HarperCollins
Imprint: Avon Books
Price: $5.99

I love the start of a new series! I enjoy the introduction of new characters and the anticipation of stories yet to come. I have had the pleasure of reading a few of Ms. Linden’s books over the years so this series was a must for me, specifically because as one of her older characters finally gets his book and finds his love… and in a most scandalous way. No previous reading is needed, however, just enjoy the start of this fresh new series as I have.

Jack Lindeville, Duke of Ware, has had just about enough of the demands of his family and friends. He was once a carefree, happy man until the weight of his responsibilities took all the joy from his life. Bailing out his gambling-addicted brother was the last thing he wanted to be doing at the Vega club until he spots the lovely Ms. Campbell and his whole world shifts upside down. He wants her any way he can get her… even if it involves losing his heart along with his money.

Sophie Campbell wants to live life on her own terms and has the drive to shape her future as she sees fit. She wants money to attract a suitable husband, settle down and have the family she has always dreamed of and she is willing to do whatever it take to make that happen. Entering a scandalous wager with the Duke of Ware might be a means to an end but can she win without losing her heart to the wrong type of man.

This book is absolutely perfect for someone who enjoys strong characters and a lot of sensual tension. Jack is brooding and aloof but shows hints of his vulnerability throughout the book. I like my hero’s to have backstory to explain their unique personalities and I found Jack’s story to be genuine and if anything, made him more attractive to me. I love seeing a character bloom and develop and I truly enjoyed his journey into the light with Sophie at his side.

Sophie is my kind of heroine so I was attracted to her immediately. I dislike women who settle too quickly for the cards life has dealt them (you will appreciate the card game analogy once you read the book) so I was so happy to see her strength and determination to make a better life for herself. The attraction between Jack and Sophie is palpable from the moment they set eyes on each other, even I neither of them will admit it, even to themselves.  Ms. Linden does a great job of building the attraction and the sensual tension which kept me turning pages deep into the night. I felt connected to both characters and to some of the secondary characters – who will totally be getting their own stories in books to come – which is rare for me lately. I was so happy to close this book with a smile on my face and true anticipation for the next one in the series.

I had a few issues with some of the plot elements that made me want to give both Jack and Sophie a smack on the head once or twice but the author clears up any issues or misunderstandings quickly and they didn’t really take away from my enjoyment of the book… maybe just a little. Overall, this book is absolutely worth the read and I think I will add this one to my Read Again shelf for a rainy day.

~ Danielle