THE PURSUITS OF LORD KIT CAVANAUGH (The Cavanaughs #2) by Stephanie Laurens-a review

THE PURSUITS OF LORD KIT CAVANAUGH (The Cavanaughs #2) by Stephanie Laurens

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 30, 2019

A Gentleman of Means

One of the most eligible bachelors in London, Lord Christopher “Kit” Cavanaugh has discovered his true path and it doesn’t include the expected society marriage. Kit is all business and has chosen the bustling port of Bristol to launch his passion—Cavanaugh Yachts.

A Woman of Character

Miss Sylvia Buckleberry’s passion is her school for impoverished children. When a new business venture forces the school out of its building, she must act quickly. But confronting Kit Cavanaugh is a daunting task made even more difficult by their first and only previous meeting, when, believing she’d never see him again, she’d treated him dismissively. Still, Sylvia is determined to be persuasive.

An Unstoppable Duo

But it quickly becomes clear there are others who want the school—and Cavanaugh Yachts—closed. Working side by side, Kit and Sylvia fight to secure her school and to expose the blackguard trying to sabotage his business. Yet an even more dastardly villain lurks, one who threatens the future both discover they now hold dear.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW:  THE PURSUITS OF LORD KIT CAVANAUGH is the second instalment in Stephanie Laurens’ THE CAVANAUGHS historical romance series, a spin off from the author’s Cynster/Cynster Sisters Duo. This is twenty-nine year old, Lord Christopher ‘Kit’ Cavanaugh, and Miss Sylvia Buckleberry’s story line. THE PURSUITS OF LORD KIT CAVANAUGH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Kit and Sylvia) THE PURSUITS OF LORD KIT CAVANAUGH follows the slow building relationship between twenty-nine year old, Lord Christopher ‘Kit’ Cavanaugh, and Miss Sylvia Buckleberry. Hoping for a successful upstart to his new Cavanaugh Yacht building business, Lord Christopher ‘Kit’ Cavanaugh finds himself in a predicament when the new lease on his warehouse forces a charity school, for impoverished children, onto the streets with nowhere to go. Enter Miss Sylvia Buckleberry, the school’s director and administrator, and the woman with whom Kit will fall in love. Hoping to make right his ill-timed business venture, Kit helps Sylvia find a new place for her school, but a place that doesn’t sit well with some of the locals. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Kit and Sylvia, and the potential fall-out as both Kit and Sylvia are targeted for who they are, and what they do.

Sylvia Buckleberry, the daughter of a preacher, knows that someone is following. From the destruction at Kit’s Cavanaugh Yacht building, to the numerous attempts to break and enter, Kit and Sylvia are unsure from where the threats are coming.

The relationship between Kit and Sylvia is slow to develop having previously met at Lord Randolph’s wedding (THE DESIGNS OF LORD RANDOLPH CAVANAUGH #1). Sylvia struggles with her attraction to a man whose reputation as a rake precedes his introduction to their small ton but Kit has no idea as to the cold indifference aimed in his direction. The lone $ex scene is passionate but mostly implied.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters many of whom struggle to survive the streets of 1843 Bristol, England. From destruction to thievery, desperation and loss, the number of locals hoping for a job increases as our hero gives everyone a second chance. We are reintroduced to Kit’s siblings Rand and his wife Felicia, as well as Eustacia aka Stacie, Godfrey and Ryder.

THE PURSUITS OF LORD KIT CAVANAUGH is an entertaining and engaging story; a well-written, slow burning romance between two people who battle not only their attraction to one another but an unknown force that is trying to destroy everything they love. The premise is captivating; the romance is sweet and tender; the characters are edgy and intelligent.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one THE DESIGNS OF LORD RANDOLPH CAVANAUGH.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Designs of Lord Randolph Cavanaugh (The Cavanaughs #1) by Stephanie Laurens-a review

THE DESIGNS OF LORD RANDOLPH CAVANAUGH ( The Cavanaughs #1) by Stephanie Laurens-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 24, 2018

#1 New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Laurens returns with a new series that captures the simmering desires and intrigues of early Victorians as only she can. Ryder Cavanaugh’s stepsiblings are determined to make their own marks in London society. Seeking fortune and passion, THE CAVANAUGHS will delight readers with their bold exploits.

An independent nobleman

Lord Randolph Cavanaugh is loyal and devoted—but only to family. To the rest of the world, he’s aloof and untouchable, a respected and driven entrepreneur. But Rand yearns for more in life, and when he travels to Buckinghamshire to review a recent investment, he discovers a passionate woman who will challenge his rigid self-control…

A determined lady

Felicia Throgmorton intends to keep her family afloat. For decades, her father was consumed by his inventions and now, months after his death, with their finances in ruins, her brother insists on continuing their father’s tinkering. Felicia is desperate to hold together what’s left of the estate. Then she discovers she must help persuade their latest investor that her father’s follies are a risk worth taking…

Together—the perfect team

Rand arrives at Throgmorton Hall to discover the invention on which he’s staked his reputation has exploded, the inventor is not who he expected and a fiercely intelligent woman now holds the key to his future success. But unflinching courage in the face of dismaying hurdles is a trait they share, and Rand and Felicia are forced to act together against ruthless foes to protect everything they hold dear.

•••••••••

REVIEW: THE DESIGNS OF LORD RANDOLPH CAVANAUGH is the first instalment in Stephanie Laurens’ historical, romance THE CAVANAUGHS series. This is Lord Randolph Cavanaugh aka Rand, the younger half-brother of Ryder Cavanaugh, Marquess of Raventhorne (The Taming of Ryder Cavanaugh), and Felicia Throgmorton’s story line. THE CAVANAUGHS is a spin off from the author’s Cynster / Cynster Sisters Duo where we met Ryder Cavanaugh and his wife Mary Cynster.

Told from several third person perspectives including Rand and Felicia THE DESIGNS OF LORD RANDOLPH CAVANAUGH follows the building romance between Randolph Cavanaugh aka Rand, and Felicia Throgmorton. With the approach of Birmingham Exhibition only days away, Lord Randolph ‘Rand’ Cavanaugh sets out to check on Cavanaugh Investments current expenditure- an exclusive stake in the Throgmorton Steam-Powered Horseless Carriage. All too aware of the potential for sabotage from competing firms, Rand takes notice of a new stranger who appears to have designs on Felicia Throgmorton, a stranger with the gift of an artist but secrets to hide. What ensues is the building romance between Felicia and Rand; the preparations for the upcoming Exhibition; and the potential fall-out as the Throgmorton Steam-Powered Horseless Carriage is targeted.

The relationship between Rand and Felicia falls victim to a lack of palpable sexual attraction. The limited interaction between the couple squashes any chemistry that could have otherwise turned passionate and romantic leaving this reader neither intrigued nor interested in the couple’s growing love. The emotional build up is absent.

The Cavanaugh siblings play secondary and supporting characters including Christopher aka Kit, Eustacia aka Stacie, Godfrey and Ryder. We are introduced to Felicia’s brother William John, and Clive Mayhew, an artist who has found himself in a precarious situation.

THE DESIGNS OF LORD RANDOLPH CAVANAUGH is a well-written but slow building story line that gets caught up in the historical and technical information of building a steam-powered engine. As our trio struggle to perfect their entry into the upcoming Exhibition, the story line follows a path of industrial and mechanical jargon rife with bits and parts, and steam-powered details that deviated from the growing relationship between our leading couple, as well as the build up towards sabotage and ruination. The building romance falls victim to the constant return to the mechanization of the steam-powered, horseless carriage; the conflict resolution was quick and anti-climactic.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Daredevil Snared/ Lord of the Privateers (The Adventurer’s Quartet 3 & 4) by Stephanie Laurens-reviews

THE DAREDEVIL SNARED / LORD OF THE PRIVATEERS ( The Adventurer’s Quartet #3 & #4) by Stephanie Laurens-reviews

The Adventurers Quarted 3 4

 

Lord of the PrivateersLORD OF THE PRIVATEERS
(The Adventurer’s Quartet #4
by Stephanie Laurens
Genre: adult, historical, romantic, adventure

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 27,2016

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Revel in the action, drama, intrigue and passion as the Frobishers— with help from Wolverstone, the Cynsters and many familiar others— steer the adventure to a glorious end.

Unstoppable determination

Widely known as the lord of the privateers, Royd Frobisher expects to execute the final stage of the rescue mission his brothers have begun. What he does not expect is to be pressured into taking Isobel Carmichael—his childhood sweetheart, former handfasted bride and current business partner—with him. A force of nature, Isobel has a mission of her own: to find and bring a young cousin safely home. And along the way, she hopes to rid herself of the dreams of a life with Royd that still haunt her.

Unfinished business

Neither expects the shock that awaits them as they set sail, much less the new horizons that open before them as they embark on a full-scale rescue-assault on the compound deep in the jungle. Yet despite the support of his brothers and their ladies, Royd and Isobel discover that freeing the captives is only half the battle. To identify and convict the conspirators behind the illicit enterprise—and save England from political disaster—they must return to the ballrooms of the haut ton and hunt the villains on their home ground.

Unforgettable love

But having found each other again, having glimpsed the heaven that could yet be theirs, how much are Royd and Isobel willing to risk in the name of duty?

••••••••••

REVIEW: LORD OF THE PRIVATEERS is the fourth and final installment in Stephanie Laurens’s THE ADVENTURER’S QUARTER historical, romantic adventure series focusing on the Frobisher brothers and their search for several missing women, children and military personnel in Freetown, South Africa. This is eldest brother Captain Royd Frobisher, and his childhood sweetheart Isobel Carmichael’s story line. LORD OF THE PRIVATEERS an be read as a stand alone although I recommend reading the series in order as each installment builds upon the events of the previous story lines, and the ongoing ARC throughout.

Told from several third person perspectives including Royd and Isobel, LORD OF THE PRIVATEERS is the culmination of four story lines that followed a trail of missing and kidnapped children, women and men in Freetown, South Africa, and the realization that some very powerful people with money and connections were backing the exhumation of illegal diamonds in the mines of South Africa. With their youngest brother enslaved in the mining camp Royd, Declan and Caleb Froubisher, along with their crews embark on a journey to free the prisoners and uncover the identity of those behind the mines. Enter Isobel Carmichael, Royd’s former sweetheart, who demands passage on the journey , in search of her cousin Miss Katherine Fortescue. What ensues is the rekindling relationship between Royd and Isobel; the detailed rescue mission to free the slaves; and a secret revealed that will change Royd’s relationship with the woman he has always loved.

LORD OF THE PRIVATEERS is a detailed and complex story line with a multi-layered premise with a large number of secondary and supporting characters that cross over between series and story lines. A mission to rescue loved ones finds Royd and Isobel rediscovering what once was, and what is meant to be. But freeing the captives is only part of their mission; returning home it was time to reveal the people involved. LORD OF THE PRIVATEERS is a grand finale that brings together family and friends in a multi-faceted conclusion where happily ever afters make way for future adventurers on the high seas.

Reviewed by Sandy

_________________

The Daredevil EnsnaredTHE DAREDEVIL SNARED
The Adventurers Quartet #3
by Stephanie Laurens
Genre: adult, historical, romantic, adventure

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ABOUT THE BOOK: RELEASE DATE June 28, 2016

He has something to prove

Captain Caleb Frobisher, hedonistic youngest son of a seafaring dynasty, wants to be taken seriously. Seizing the next leg of the covert mission his brothers are pursuing, he acts decisively and effectively in securing the mission’s objectives. But responsibility has taken root, and he remains in the jungle to ensure the mission’s ultimate goal.

She will risk everything

Katherine Fortescue fled a life of poverty and came to Freetown as a governess, only to be kidnapped and forced to oversee the child workforce at a mine. Guarded by well-armed, well-trained mercenaries, the captives have lost all hope of escape. Then Katherine meets a handsome man—a captain—and he brings the sweet promise of rescue.

Together they will face the future

The sadistic mercenary who runs the mine has other plans, but Caleb’s true strength lies in extracting advantage from adversity, and through the clashes that follow, he becomes the leader he was always destined to be. The sort of man Katherine can trust—with her body, with her life. With her love.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: THE DAREDEVIL SNARED is the third installment in Stephanie Laurens’s Regency-era historical romantic adventure series THE ADVENTURERS QUARTET focusing on the Frobisher brothers and their search for several missing women, children and military personnel in Freetown, South Africa. This is youngest brother Captain Caleb Frobisher, and governess Katherine Fortescue’s story line. THE DAREDEVIL SNARED can be read as a stand alone although I recommend reading the series in order as each installment builds upon the events of the previous story lines, and the ongoing ARC throughout.

Told from several third person perspectives THE DAREDEVIL SNARED continues the search for a number of missing children, women and British military officers in Freetown, South Africa presumed to have been kidnapped by a band of European slavers. Captain Caleb Frobisher and his men including best friend Captain Phillip Lascelle have been commissioned by the British Crown for the third leg of the search and rescue to locate the ‘mining camp’ and report back their findings but an unexpected encounter finds the Captain exposing his men to the enemy they seek. Caleb and his crew are imprisoned and forced to work the mines along with the men and women they are seeking but not before our hero is able to send off his report to the people back home. What ensues is the building relationship between Caleb and Katherine Fortescue, and the struggle to slow down the mining operation before their would-be rescuers arrive.

THE DAREDEVIL SNARED is an infinitely detailed story line with a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including men, women and children, as well as the captors and the revelation of the people in charge. The slow building story line becomes lost in the numerous, small details about mining for diamonds and the dangerous working conditions of which the prisoners have been exposed. Although their captor is not one to be crossed he does allow the prisoners some freedom and personal expression.

Liked many middle books in trilogies THE DAREDEVIL SNARED loses itself in a lack of real story line and series build up ; too much repetition, detail and focus on the mining for diamonds; and the slow building romance is more of an afterthought due to their circumstances and the potential for rescue from abroad.

THE DAREDEVIL SNARED is a story of adventure, greed, struggle and love. The premise is somewhat tedious and I lost interest very early due to the lack of any true drama or conflict. Hopefully the final installment LORD OF THE PRIVATEERS featuring eldest brother Royd Frobisher brings some much needed action and intrigue.

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Lady’s Command (The Adventurers Quartet #1) by Stephanie Laurens-a review

THE LADY’S COMMAND (The Adventurers Quartet #1) by Stephanie Laurens-a review

The Lady's Command

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 29, 2015

The instant Captain Declan Frobisher laid eyes on Lady Edwina Delbraith, he knew she was the lady he wanted as his wife. The scion of a seafaring dynasty accustomed to success, he discovered that wooing Edwina was surprisingly straightforward—not least because she made it plain that she wanted him as much as he wanted her.

Declan’s vision of marriage was of a gently-reared wife to grace his arm, to manage his household, and to bear his children. He assumed that household, children, and wife would remain safely in England while he continued his life as an explorer sailing the high seas.

Declan got his wish—up to a point. He and Edwina were wed. As for the rest—his vision of marriage…

Aunt of the young Duke of Ridgware and sister of the mysterious man known as Neville Roscoe, London’s gambling king, even before the knot was tied Edwina shattered the illusion that her character is as delicate, ethereal, and fragile as her appearance suggests. Far from adhering to orthodox mores, she and her ducal family are even more unconventional than the Frobishers.

Beneath her fairy-princess exterior, Edwina possesses a spine of steel—one that might bend, but will never break. Born to the purple—born to rule—she’s determined to rule her life. With Declan’s ring on her finger, that means forging a marriage that meets her needs as well as his.

But bare weeks into their honeymoon, Declan is required to sail to West Africa. Edwina decides she must accompany him.

A secret mission with unknown villains flings unexpected dangers into their path as Declan and Edwina discover that meeting the challenge of making an unconventional marriage work requires something they both possess—bold and adventurous hearts.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE LADY’S COMMAND is the first installment in Stephanie Laurens’ THE ADVENTURERS QUARTET historical romance series with a little bit of mystery and suspense that focuses on the Frobisher Brothers. This is Captain Declan Frobisher, and Lady Edwina Frobisher’s story line.

Told from dual third person points of view THE LADY’S COMMAND focuses on an investigation into a number of missing people in a British settlement in Freetown, West Africa in 1824. When Captain Declan Frobisher is commanded to head the fact-finding mission, his wife of three weeks stows aboard his ship, and Declan finds himself partnered with the women he loves as he searches for answers to the missing British citizens. What ensues is a gentle inquiry as to the ‘rumors’ about the vanishing people, and who may be responsible for the mysterious acts. When Edwina and Declan push a little bit too hard, our heroine finds herself the next intended victim.

THE LADY’S COMMAND is the introductory story line that offers a little bit of background into the missing people; a possible illegal slave trade; hints, clues and the investigative process; plus a little bit of history about the Frobisher family. There are moments of seductive romance; intrigue, mystery and suspense that add a number of possibilities as to the who, what, and why of the disappearance of several people in Freetown, West Africa. The romance aspect of the story line is beautifully written but the relationship between our couple has already been established so there was none of the angst or anxiety of a building love. All of the $ex scenes were very descriptive (flowery and romantic) but mostly implied.

Stephanie Laurens writes a story line that follows two paths: the investigation into the missing people; and the loving relationship between a new husband and wife. If you are a fan of sweet and sensual romance, set in a time not so long ago, with a little bit of mystery and suspense then THE LADY’S COMMAND is a great way to start a new series.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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By Winter’s Light (Cynster Novel #21) by Stephanie Laurens-Review and Blog Tour

By Winter’s Light (Cynster Novel #21) by Stephanie Laurens-Review and Blog Tour

by Winter's Light

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About the book: Release Date October 28, 2014

#1 New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Laurens returns to romantic Scotland to usher in a new generation of Cynsters in an enchanting tale of mistletoe, magic, and love.

It’s December 1837, and the young adults of the Cynster clan have succeeded in having the family Christmas celebration held at snow-bound Casphairn Manor, Richard and Catriona Cynster’s home. Led by Sebastian, Marquess of Earith, and by Lucilla, future Lady of the Vale, and her twin brother, Marcus, the upcoming generation has their own plans for the holitay season.

Yet where Cynsters gather, love is never far behind—the festive occasion brings together Daniel Crosbie, tutor to Lucifer Cynster’s sons, and Claire Meadows, widow and governess to Gabriel Cynster’s daughter. Daniel and Claire have met before and the embers of an unexpected passion smolder between them, but once bitten, twice shy, Claire believes a second marriage is not in her stars. Daniel, however, is determined to press his suit. He’s seen the love the Cynsters share, and Claire is the lady with whom he dreams of sharing his life. Assisted by a bevy of Cynsters—innate matchmakers every one—Daniel strives to persuade Claire that trusting him with her hand and her heart is her right path to happiness.

Meanwhile, out riding on Christmas Eve, the young adults of the Cynster clan respond to a plea for help. Summoned to a humble dwelling in ruggedly forested mountains, Lucilla is called on to help with the difficult birth of a child, while the others rise to the challenge of helping her. With a violent storm closing in and severely limited options, the next generation of Cynsters face their first collective test—can they save this mother and child? And themselves, too?

A tale brimming with all the magical delights of a Scottish festive season.

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: BY WINTER’S LIGHT is the 21st installment ( and Cynster Special #2) in Stephanie Lauren’s CYNSTER series of historical romance novels focusing on the Cynster family. By Winter’s Light is a storyline that focuses on the next generation of Cynster’s-those young men and women about to enter into adulthood, but not quite reaching the age of marriage and independence.

The ensemble cast includes most of the previous storyline couples including Devil and Honoria, Demon and Felicity, Richard and Catriona, and their growing brood of children. By Winter’s Light focuses on the upcoming holiday celebrations, the impending winter storm, the birth of a child, and a love match of which the Cynster’s cannot help but become involved.

As the preparations for the holiday feast begin, Claire Meadows (governess to Gabriel Cynster’s daughter) and Daniel Crosbie (tutor to Lucifer Cycnster’s sons) begin a lover’s dance around one another. Daniel has been attracted to Claire for quite a long time and he believes the holidays are the perfect time to ask for Claire’s hand in marriage. But Claire is a widow who is afraid to commit to another man. It will take the entire household and some powerful magic foreseen by the Cynster matriarch to give Claire a little push in the right direction.

The secondary storyline finds the older Cynster children aiding in the preparations for the upcoming celebration but on a journey of their own. When a young pregnant woman is in need of assistance, Lucilla and her cousins will find themselves preparing for the arrival of another sort. It is here where Lucilla may have met her future in the form of Thomas Carrick-the nephew of the ‘Mad Manachan Carrick’ -the head of the Carrick family and the Laird of the northern boundary manor.

Stephanie Lauren’s weaves a heartwarming tale of family and love. Because the Cynster’s are a very prolific tribe, the number of family members, friends, servants and townsfolk is numerous and at times a little confusing, and can be slightly overwhelming to anyone who has not read the entire series. The reader requires a spreadsheet to keep straight the familial connections. The storyline is slow to develop as there are several competing plot points that require some background and build up, but when all is said and done, everyone will get their happily ever after and the reader will get a peak into the future generation and what lies in store for the younger Cynster members.

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

Q&A

A short Q&A with Stephanie Laurens

You state that BY WINTER’S LIGHT is an essential volume for the Cynster novels going forward. Why is that?

One of the critical features of a long-running series is readers’ feelings of returning to places and people they know – of seeing heros and heroines they have come to know as individuals go through the challenge of finding love and marrying the right man or woman for them. Knowing at least one of these characters beforehand – understanding what has made them as they are, what their strengths are, and even more importantly what weaknesses they hide – allows greater interest, empathy, and absorption for the reader.

In the case of the Cynster Next Generation, the children of the Bar Cynster couples, readers know who they are, but have seen very little of them. And as we all know, actions speak much louder than words about the caliber of people, of who they really are beneath the outer glamor. In BY WINTER’S LIGHT, readers see Lucilla, Marcus, Sebastian, Michael, Prudence, and Christopher in action, responding to external pressures and threats, and also to each other, and separately readers also learn more about Louisa and her emerging character.

Readers have more recently seen Lucilla and Marcus act in VISCOUNT BRECKENRIDGE TO THE RESCUE, but now they are a decade older, and we – both the readers and me as author – need to see more of the adults they are shaping up to be, which are insights BY WINTER’S LIGHT affords us. Unsurprisingly, the first pair of Cynster Next Generation romances are those of Lucilla and Marcus, and as they are twins, the stories are tightly linked.

Subsequently, working off the base of their characters revealed in this book, we’ll follow Sebastian, Michael, and Louisa through their romances, and later learn about Prudence and Christopher’s romances, too.

So there’s lots more Cynster novels in the pipeline?

Indeed! Lucilla’s book, THE TEMPTING OF THOMAS CARRICK, is already written, and will be released at the end of February, 2015. It will be followed by Marcus’s story, A MATCH FOR MARCUS CYNSTER, in late May, 2015. Further Cynster novels are scheduled for release in 2017.

There’s an obvious tradition that isn’t included – that of a Christmas tree. Why is that missing?

Christmas trees – the erecting and decorating of them – while echoing the decorating of a house with fir and holly, was a German custom. In the early 1800s, the only major house in England that sported a Christmas Tree was the Duchess of Rutland’s household at Belvoir Castle, because the Duchess was German. Only much later, after the marriage of Victoria to Albert, who introduced the custom of Christmas trees to the royal household, did the custom of Christmas trees become more widely adopted in England.

Victoria married Albert in 1840, so in 1837 in Scotland, the custom of a Christmas had not yet arrived.

If there was one thing you could say to readers when they pick up BY WINTER’S LIGHT, what would it be?

Put your feet up, kick back and relax, and enjoy the holidays Cynsters-style!

Excerpt

 

 

Excerpt:

CHAPTER 1

December 23, 1837
Casphairn Manor, the Vale of Casphairn, Scotland

Daniel Crosbie felt as if all his Christmases had come at once. Letting his gaze travel the Great Hall of Casphairn Manor, filled to overflowing with six Cynster families and various associated household members, he allowed himself a moment to savor both his unexpected good fortune and his consequent hope.

About him, the combined households were enjoying the hearty dinner provided to welcome them to the celebration planned for the next ten days—as Daniel understood it, a combination of Christmas, the more ancient Yuletide, and Hogmanay. Seated about the long refectory-like tables on benches rather than chairs, with eyes alight and smiles on their faces, the assembled throng was in ebullient mood. Conversation and laughter abounded; delight and expectation shone in most faces, illuminated by the warm glow of the candlelight cast from massive circular chandeliers depending from thick chains from the high-domed ceiling. The central room about which the manor was built, the Great Hall lived up to its name; the space within its thick walls of pale gray stone was large enough to accommodate the Cynster contingent, all told about sixty strong, as well as the families of the various retainers who worked in and around the manor, which functioned like a small village.

With no family of his own still alive, Daniel had spent his last ten Christmases with the Cynster family for whom he acted as tutor—the family of Mr. Alasdair Cynster and his wife, Phyllida—but this was the first time in that decade that the Cynsters had come north for Christmas. The six Cynster families present—the six families closest to the dukedom of St. Ives, those of Devil, Duke of St. Ives, his brother Richard, and his cousins Vane, Harry, Rupert, and Alasdair—invariably came together at Christmastime. They were often joined by other connected families not present on this occasion; the long journey to the Vale, in the western Lowlands of Scotland, to the home of Richard Cynster and his wife Catriona in a season that had turned icy and cold with snow on the ground much earlier than expected had discouraged all but the most determined.

Out of long-established habit, Daniel glanced at his charges—soon to be erstwhile charges—seated at the next table with their cousins and second cousins. Aidan, now sixteen years old, and Evan, fifteen, had passed out of Daniel’s immediate care when they’d gone up to Eton, yet Daniel still kept an eye on the pair when they were home—an action their parents appreciated and which the boys, at ease with him after all the years, bore with good grace. At that moment, both were talking animatedly with their male cousins in a fashion that instantly, at least in Daniel’s mind, raised the question of what the group was planning. He made a mental note to inquire later. Jason, the youngest son of the family and the last of Daniel’s true charges, was similarly occupied with the group of Cynster offspring nearer his age. Now eleven, later in the coming year, Jason, too, would start his formal schooling—a circumstance which had, for Daniel, raised the uncomfortable question of what he would do then.

Once Jason left for Eton and there were no more boys in Alasdair Cynster’s household in Colyton, in Devon, for Daniel to tutor, what would he do for a living?

The question had plagued him for several months, not least because if he was ever to have a chance at the sort of life he now knew he wanted, and, if at all possible, was determined to claim, he needed to have secure employment—a place, a position, with a steady salary or stipend.

He’d been wracking his brains, trying to think of his options, of what might be possible, when Mr. Cynster—Alasdair—had called him into the library and laid before him a proposal that, in a nutshell, was the answer to all his prayers.

On several occasions over the years, Daniel had assisted Alasdair with his interests in ancient and antique jewelry, with documenting finds and establishing provenances, and also with cataloguing and adding to the collection of rare books Alasdair had inherited from the previous owner of the manor. Alasdair, supported by Phyllida, had suggested that, once Jason had departed with his brothers for Eton, if Daniel was happy to remain in Colyton as a member of their household, they would be delighted to engage him as Alasdair’s personal secretary, an amanuensis to assist with Alasdair’s ever-expanding interests.

The suggested stipend was generous, the conditions all Daniel could have hoped for. Not only would the new position suit him, it would solve all his difficulties.

Most importantly, it cleared the way for him to offer for Claire Meadows’s hand.

He glanced along the board to his right. Clad in a soft woolen gown in a muted shade of blue, Claire—Mrs. Meadows—was sitting on the opposite side of the table, two places down. She was the governess in Rupert Cynster’s household; as Rupert and Alasdair were brothers, Claire and Daniel were often thrown together when the families gathered. It was customary in such circumstances that the attending tutors and governesses banded together, sharing responsibilities and each other’s company, as they were at present. The manor’s governess, Miss Melinda Spotswood, a comfortable matronly sort with a backbone of forged iron, was chatting to Claire. On Melinda’s other side, opposite Daniel, sat Oswald Raven, tutor at the manor; a few years older than Daniel, Raven projected a debonair façade, but he was hardworking and devoted to his charges. Raven was chatting to Mr. Samuel Morris, who was seated alongside Daniel and hailed from Vane Cynster’s household in Kent; the oldest of the group, Morris was slightly rotund and had an unfailingly genial air, yet he was a sound scholar and very capable of exerting a firm hand on his charges’ reins.

All five had met and shared duties on several occasions before; the rapport between them was comfortable and relaxed. Over the coming days, they would, between them, keep an eye on the combined flock of Cynster children—the younger ones, at least. The oldest group, the seventeen-year-olds led by eighteen-year-old Sebastian Cynster, Marquess of Earith and future head of the house, could be relied on to take care of themselves, along with the large group of sixteen- and fifteen-year-old males. But there were six boys thirteen years and under, and seven girls ranging from eight to fourteen years old, and over them the tutors and governesses would need to exert control sufficient to ensure they remained suitably occupied.

There was no telling what the engaging devils would get up to if left unsupervised.

Being governess or tutor to Cynster children was never dull or boring.

Daniel had managed to keep his gaze from Claire for all of ten minutes. Despite the color and vibrancy, the noise and distraction—despite the many handsome and outright stunningly beautiful faces around about—hers was the shining star in his firmament; regardless of where they were, regardless of competing sights and sounds, she effortlessly drew his gaze and transfixed his attention.

She’d done so from the moment he’d first seen her at one of the family’s Summer Celebrations in Cambridgeshire several years ago. They’d subsequently met on and off at various family functions, at weddings in London, at major family birthdays, and at seasonal celebrations like the current one.

With each exposure, his attraction to Claire, his focus on her, had only grown more definite, more acute, until the obvious conclusion had stared him in the face, impossible to resist, much less deny.

Utterly impossible to ignore.

“If the weather holds,” Raven said, commanding Daniel’s attention with his gaze, “and the older crew go riding as they’re planning, then we’ll need to invent some suitable pastimes to keep our charges amused.”

Seated with his back to the table at which the Cynster children were gathered, Raven had turned and asked what the animated talk had been about. Riding out to assess the position and state of the deer herds had been the answer.

Daniel nodded. “If at all possible, let’s get those left to our care out of doors.”

“Indeed,” Melinda said, turning from Claire to join the conversation. “We need to take advantage of any clear days. If it is fine enough tomorrow, I was saying to Claire that the fourteen-year-olds—the girls—might like to gather greenery to decorate the hall.” Melinda gestured to the stone walls hosting various fireplaces and archways, all presently devoid of any seasonal touches. “It’s customary to decorate them on the twenty-fourth, which is tomorrow.”

“I’d heard,” Morris said, “that there’s some tradition about the Yule log that’s followed hereabouts.” He looked to Raven for confirmation.

Raven, his hair as dark as his name would suggest, nodded. “Yes, that’s an inspired idea. Not only is it necessary to collect the right-sized logs, but the logs have to be carved. That should keep the boys amused for hours. I’ll speak to the staff about organizing whatever’s needed.”

Daniel nodded again, and his gaze drifted once more to Claire; she’d been following the conversation, her calm expression indicating her agreement with the suggestions. With her glossy mid-brown hair burnished by the candlelight, with her delicate features and milky-white skin, her lips of pale rose, lush and full, and her large hazel eyes set under finely arched brown brows, she was, to his eyes, the epitome of womanhood.

That she was a widow—had been widowed at a young age—was neither here nor there, yet the experience had, it seemed, imbued her with a certain gravitas, leaving her more reserved, more cautious, and with a more sober and serious demeanor than might be expected of a well-bred lady of twenty-seven summers.

Her station—gentry-born but fallen on hard times—was similar to, or perhaps a touch higher than, Daniel’s; he didn’t really know. Nor did he truly care. They were both as they were here and now, and what happened next … that was up to them.

He’d come to Scotland, to the Vale, determined to put his luck to the test—to seize the opportunity to speak with Claire and plead his case, to learn if she shared his hopes and if she could come to share his dreams.

A gust of laughter and conversation drew his gaze to the high table.

The six Cynster couples were seated about the table on the raised dais along one side of the room, a traditional positioning most likely dating from medieval times. In addition to those twelve—middle-aged, perhaps, yet still vibrantly handsome, articulate, active, and engaged—there were three of the older generation at one end of the board. Helena, Dowager Duchess of St. Ives, mother of Devil and Richard and elder matriarch of the clan, was seated at the end of the table closest to the hearth, and had chosen to summon Algaria, Catriona’s aging mentor, and McArdle, the ancient butler of the manor, now retired, to join her there. The three were much of an age and, judging by their glances and gestures, were busy sharing pithy observations on all others in the hall. Having met the dowager and been the object of her scrutiny on several occasions, Daniel didn’t like to think of how much she, let alone black-eyed Algaria, was seeing.

A comment in a deep voice, followed by laughter, drew Daniel’s gaze back to the twelve Cynsters of the generation that currently ruled. Their children might have been growing apace, might already have been showing signs of the forceful, powerful individuals they had the potential to become, yet the twelve seated about the high table still dominated their world.

Daniel had observed them—those six couples in particular—for the past ten years. All the males had been born to wealth, but what they’d made of it—the lives each had successfully wrought—hadn’t been based solely on inherited advantage. Each of the six possessed a certain strength—a nuanced blend of power, ability, and insight—that Daniel appreciated, admired, and aspired to. It had taken him some time to realize from where that particular strength derived—namely, from the ladies. From their marriages. From the connection—the link that was so deep, so strong, so anchoring—that each of the six males shared with his wife.

Once he’d seen and understood, Daniel had wanted the same for himself.

His gaze shifted again to Claire. Once he’d met her, he’d known whom he wanted to share just such a link with.

Now he stood on the cusp of reaching for it—of chancing his hand and hoping he could persuade her to form such a connection with him.

Whatever gaining her assent required, he would do.

Now Fate in the form of Alasdair Cynster had cleared his path, it was time to screw his courage to the sticking point and act.

Hope, anticipation, and trepidation churned in his gut.

But he was there and so was she, and he was determined to move forward. He knew how he felt about her, and he thought she felt similarly toward him. His first step, plainly, was to determine whether he was correct in believing that—and whether with encouragement, “like” could grow into something more.

 

About The author

Stephanie Laurens#1 New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Laurens began writing romances as an escape from the dry world of professional science. Her hobby quickly became a career when her first novel was accepted for publication, and with entirely becoming alacrity; she gave up writing about facts in favor of writing fiction.

Laurens’s novels are set in the time period of the British Regency, and her settings range from Scotland to India. Laurens has published fifty works of historical romance, including 29 New York Times bestsellers. All her works are continuously available in print and digital formats in English worldwide, and have been translated into many other languages. An international bestseller, among other accolades Laurens has received the Romance Writers of America prestigious RITA Award for Best Romance Novella 2008, for The Fall of Rogue Gerrard.

Her continuing novels featuring the Cynster family are widely regarded as classics of the genre. Other series include the Bastion Club Novels and the Black Cobra Quartet. For information on upcoming releases and updates on novels yet to come, visit Stephanie’s website: http://www.stephanielaurens.com

Website: http://www.stephanielaurens.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorStephanieLaurens

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9241.Stephanie_Laurens

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In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster-A review

In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster by Stephanie Laurens-a review

IN PURSUIT OF ELIZA CYNSTER by Stephanie Laurens

In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster is the second book in Stephanie Laurens’ Cynster Sisters trilogy and the 17th novel in the Cynster series of books. Like the previous Cynster sister book, In Pursuit focuses on the abduction, rescue and eventual HEA of a Cynster female. Including an adventure through two countries and countless little towns and villages, In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster will leave you breathless and longing for a glass of wine and the comfort of your own bed.

 

Eliza Cynster is tired of the constant presence of her over-protective brothers and cousins. Well aware of Heather Cynster’s kidnapping some weeks before, the Cynster males are taking no chance that the remaining eligible females are put into the precarious position of another potential abduction. But when a note , requesting her presence elsewhere, away from Heather and Breckenridge’s celebration, Eliza is more than ready for a change of scenery. But a mysterious man and a drugged induced stupor quickly force Eliza to realize, that she is the next target of a man named McKinsey.

 

Jeremy Carling is a scholar, a man who spends most of his time, reading, researching and studying ancient tomes and books. But, when a carriage carrying, what looks like a screaming Eliza Cynster, rumbles by, he remembers the threat against the famous Cynster sister’s and realizes, that he may be Eliza’s only hope for a rescue.

 

Following the carriage through rural England, he soon realizes that Eliza and her abductors are heading for Scotland. Not wanting to waste time, and possibly losing track of the carriage, Jeremy enlists the help of his brother in law and a couple of boyhood friends, to aid in the rescue of Eliza Cynster. But Eliza’s captives have already made preparations, and quickly escort Eliza out of town, but not before, Jeremy is able to get word to Eliza, that she is not alone.

 

Eliza’s abductors are hired by the mysterious Laird, known only as McKinsey, to the readers.—an aristocratic man intent on finding a woman of eligible marriage potential- so that he is able to procure the ‘golden chalice’ from his mother. Without the chalice, ‘McKinsey’ will lose everything—his castle, his land and his honor. Therefore, he gives warning to the hirees, that no harm must befall Eliza Cynster-she is to be treated with the utmost respect and care. But Victor Stropes is a hired gun; a man used to getting the job done at all costs. And McKinsey, knowing that Stropes and the others, are only doing their job, takes on the added burden of tailing the trio of kidnappers, wherever they go with Eliza, to ensure her safety.

 

Jeremy soon enlists the aid of his family, in the rescue of Eliza. When Eliza is hidden in the basement of a newly renovated townhouse by her captors, Jeremy is forced to execute her escape-but he soon finds out that each housing unit is outfitted with an alternate escape, buried deep under foundation. When Stropes and the others finally realize that their captive has alluded them, panic sets in, as McKinsey arrives to handle the exchange. Angered that Stropes and the others have not been able to protect Eliza from rescue, McKinsey releases Stropes from his contract, and declares their partnership ended. Stropes is so incensed that he is now perceived as a failure, sets out on his own, to re-capture Eliza and make good on the deal.

 

Jeremy Carling senses there is something different about Eliza Cynster. She is not like her sisters. She is quiet, unassuming and seemingly more fragile. When they set out, on their trek homeward, across the harsh Scottish countryside on horseback, he soon realizes, that she is unable to handle the pressures and nuances involved with riding a horse, and they are forced to set out on foot. But the knowledge that both Stropes and McKinsey have not stopped in their hunt to reclaim Eliza, have the young couple running for their lives.

 

Eliza is comforted to know, that the bookish Jeremy has taken it upon himself, to map out their route, ensuring their safety along the way. But even disguised as a young boy in britches, Eliza and Jeremy’s escape route, is soon discovered and Stropes, as well as a determined McKinsey, pursue them relentlessly. McKinsey’s dogged pursuit is now one of a guardianship over Eliza, fearing Stropes will capture at any cost. And McKinsey, the aristocratic gentleman that he is, is steeped in the knowledge, that Jeremy Carling, is better suited as a potential husband for Eliza Cynster, than he ever will be.

 

As the story unfolds, Eliza and Jeremy soon recognize that their relationship is more than just one of a search and rescue. Their feelings towards one another blossom, as each day unfolds, and they are forced to stay together each night, for their own safety and protection. But as their trek takes them closer to the Scotland/England border, Stropes disdain for Jeremy and his overwhelming need to re-capture Eliza at all cost, puts the couple at risk for injury and possible death. When Jeremy is shot and wounded by Stropes, McKinsey’s fury at the attempted killing, sparks a fight between the two men, and their resulting plunge off a cliff, force Jeremy and Eliza to the realization how much of a mad-man, Stropes had become. Presuming, both men had died from the fall, Eliza and Jeremy continue on their journey home, crossing the border between England and Scotland, into the welcoming arms of family and friends.

 

As with all romance storylines, Eliza and Jeremy’s happily ever after, is arguably predictable. During his recovery, the couple, question their love for each other, if only because, their respective families, are completely oblivious to the connection between the couple or play the fools, allowing the young couple to realize on their own- the destiny that awaits. But love conquers all and in the end, another Cynster sister, is betrothed to the man, her hero and friend. The final book in the trilogy is The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae..I do believe we meet the real Mr. McKinsey.

Reviewed by Sandy

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DEVIL’S BRIDE by Stephanie Laurens

DEVIL’S BRIDE by Stephanie Laurens

Take Another Look at Devil’s Bride by Stephanie Laurens.  

Released in 1998, Devil’s Bride is the first novel in the Cynster series of historical romance books by Stephanie Laurens. The most famous and eligible of the Cynster males, Sylvester “Devil” Cynster meets his match in Honoria Wetherby, a finishing governess and a woman who would fit well in the 21st century.

Honoria Wetherby has been hired, to prepare the young daughter of a wealthy couple, for her coming out. But when she happens upon a bleeding and dying man alongside the road, Honoria isn’t one to pass by without notice. Giving aid to Tolly Cynster, Honoria is suddenly propelled into the world of the aristocratic rich and famous of the English countryside. When Sylvester, aka Devil Cynster, arrives to help his young cousin, it is then, that he meets the energetic young woman and swears to himself, that Honoria will be his bride.

Never one to step back from a threat or challenge, Honoria places herself in a compromising position to help Devil comfort his dying cousin. But when Tolly succumbs to his gunshot wounds, in the small cabin where they sought refuge, the Cynster males vow to find his killer. But Honoria is placed in a precarious predicament, when it is discovered, that she spent the night in the cabin, un-chaperoned with Devil Cynster, and Devil takes it upon himself, to demand her hand in marriage-to make an honest woman out of her.

Honoria is a very modern woman, for Regency England. Although investigating the death of Devil’s cousin, may prove to be exactly what she needs, her freedom is what she demands. But, when Devil announces to the family that he has found his bride, Honoria is whisked into action, helping prepare for the funeral and family mourning period. With the idea in mind, that she will aid the family during their time of grief, Honoria involves herself with the dealings of the Cynster males and their efforts to locate and ferret out Tolly’s killer. But, there are unsettling details surrounding the death, that require further investigation and Honoria takes it upon herself, to seek answers to the questions.

As with all romance storylines, Devil and Honoria are sexually and physically attracted to one another. Her physical beauty, as well as her penchant for finding herself in situations, that require her rescue, put Devil on alert. But, someone is trying to kill Devil, and with the help of his cousins, they try to track a killer. When the clues and information, start pointing to a beloved family member, Honoria is caught in a trap,that could very well end all of their lives.

Devil’s Bride introduces us to the Cynster family including the Cynster males. Demon, Vane, Gabriel, Lucifer, Scandal and Devil are all members of the Bar-Cynster, a name they had given themselves, as young, pleasure-seeking men. But one quiet and reclusive family member was never involved or accepted into the group, and now, a history of extra-marital affairs and ½ brothers, may bring the Cynster family to their knees.

As an introductory book to the series, the Devil’s Bride was a wonderful read. The ‘mysterious murderer’ is blatantly obvious, so the ‘mystery’ is less than palpable.  Devil and Honoria’s relationship is filled with angst, smoldering sex, scandalous behavior and the realization of love. The introduction of the Cynster males, leaves plenty of opportunity to continue the storyline (18 at last count) and the romance world of Stephanie Laurens is forever etched in my soul. I found a new romance hero in Sylvester “Devil” Cynster, a man that I could truly call …my own!!

Sandy

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