Tag Archives: Scarlett Affairs

Lord Halsey’s Tempestuous Minx by Cerise DeLand -review

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Lord Halsey’s Tempestuous Minx (Scarlett Affairs 6) by Cerise DeLand -review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 18, 2026

Inès believes she can do any deed to free her brother from prison. What she cannot predict is how one man’s love can destroy her illusion.

Inès Bechard has performed a miraculous feat in France of deluding the French—and escaping their vengeance. Fleeing to England, she has the help of her friends to create a new life for herself. She desperately needs their gaiety, their security, and their promised exposure to the British social whirl. But she can never tell them why.

What she does not need is a charming man who lures her with promises of kisses, affection, and wedded bliss.

Evan, Lord Halsey, sees in this lovely French émigré a woman he wants to treasure as his own. Resist him she can, and does. But the man is damnably persistent and convinces her that all she has lost, including family, friends, and love, she can regain in his fond embrace as his wife.

Torn between duty to her brother and love for her husband, Inès tries to find a way to do both.

But love has it limits.

Doesn’t it?

•••••••••

REVIEW: I picked up Lord Halsey’s Tempestuous Minx knowing Cerise DeLand’s Scarlett Affairs series that Regency romance with a side of intrigue, and this installment did not disappoint.

It’s a heartfelt, tension filled story about love clashing with duty, set against the backdrop of French émigrés navigating British society in the post-Revolutionary/Napoleonic era.

Inès Bechard is a great heroine, she’s resourceful, resilient, and fiercely devoted to her imprisoned brother.

Having pulled off a daring escape from France after deceiving her pursuers, she arrives in England guarded and determined to rebuild her life while keeping her secrets close. She craves the safety and joy her friends offer but refuses to burden them with the truth. What she doesn’t bargain for is Evan…..

Lord Halsey a charming, persistent suitor who sees her as the woman he wants to cherish and marry.

The slowburn/push/pull between Inès and Evan was great, we watch as Inès resists his advances with fire and wit (earning her that “tempestuous minx” title), but Evan’s genuine affection and steadfastness gradually chip away at her walls.

Their romance fits the series’ tone.

Inès’s internal conflict…. torn between saving her brother and embracing the love and stability Evan offers, had me shouting at my kindle, parts were heartbreaking at times.

The supporting cast from the Scarlett Affairs world adds warmth and continuity. (Although you don’t really need to read the other books first.)

The British social whirl provides delightful settings for balls, flirtations, and quiet moments of connection.

The historical details put you right in the heart of the scene. And the pacing kept me turning pages as Inès weighs her dangerous secrets against a future she never thought possible.

If you enjoy Regency romances with strong, independent heroines who have traumatic pasts, devoted heroes who respect (and challenge) their boundaries, and a mix of steam, emotion, and light intrigue, this one is a winner.

A satisfying addition to the series that left me eager for more.

Highly recommended if you’re already a fan, or if you’re looking for a great historical escape with heart.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie 🦋

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Lord Carlisle’s Enticing Lure (Scarlett Affairs)by Cerise Deland

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Lord Carlisle’s Enticing Lure (Scarlett Affairs Book 5) by Cerise Deland -review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 25, 2025

She’s much too carefree, too lovely, too enchanting to be a spy.
His job is to catch spies. She cannot possibly be one—and he cannot possibly love her!

Clive Davenport, the Marquess of Carlisle, does not fall for beautiful women. But when the dark-haired sylph he glimpsed not far from his home last winter reappears on the beach at Brighton, he cannot escape her lure. Swaying in the June breeze, she is the picture of freedom and delight in the summer sun. Then she saves his little girl from the crashing waves of the Channel waters and constructs kites that dance in his daughter’s hands—and in his heart.

She tells him her name is Giselle Laurant, and that she is a French émigré with a work commission she must urgently finish. Employing her special talents as an illustrator, she does not reveal that her renderings of coastal English towns have a special destination.

So falling in love with dashing Carlisle creates problems. He will not disappear. Nor does she want him to. Her past experience with an abusive husband and French police are bitter. Yet she marvels at Clive’s kisses that are so sweet, and his tender regard so alluring, that she allows herself one night of surrender.

But when her foes track her, Clive is determined to save her, no matter her sympathies. No matter that he loves her to distraction.

Because Clive knows love can cure so many heartaches…if those who love have the courage to endure.

••••••

REVIEW: Cerise Deland’s “Lord Carlisle’s Enticing Lure”, is a great addition to the Scarlett Affairs series that blends romance with suspense. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Brighton, this novel explores the complexities of love, trust, and the shadows of the past.

The story revolves around Clive Davenport, the Marquess of Carlisle, a man devoted to his duties and wary of emotional entanglements. Enter Giselle Laurant, a beguiling French émigré with a painful history marked by an abusive husband and relentless pursuers from the French police.

Their chemistry is right there from the moment they reconnect on the beach, but both characters grapple with their emotional burdens.

Giselle’s journey from a life of fear to one of potential love is thoughtfully described. Her initial hesitation is understandable, given her traumatic past, yet her vulnerability shines through as Clive offers her kindness and warmth.

Love and healing takes center stage in this story, with Clive embodied as the knight who seeks to shield Giselle from her demons. His determination to protect her, regardless of her past sympathies and choices, had me cheering throughout the book.

The dialogue sparkles with wit and tension, driving the romantic plot forward while keeping us invested in the escalating suspense surrounding Giselle’s past.

For fans of historical romance and those who enjoy a touch of suspense, this novel is a must read.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Lord Ashley’s Beautiful Alibi
Lord Ramsay’s Redheaded Ruin
Lord Appleby’s Gorgeous Imposter
Lord Fournier’s Shameless princess

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie

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Lord Fournier’s Shameless Princess by Cerise Deland-review

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Lord Fournier’s Shameless Princess (Scarlett Affairs Book 4) by Cerise Deland-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 27, 2205

Driven by duty, he rushes to help her.

Elizabeth von Rittenburg—Liesel, as she is known—is a princess with a plan. She’ll save her sisters and young brother from the French who would abduct and ransom them to get her renegade older brother, Crown Prince Rainer to turn himself in to the French.

Liesel has always made her own rules, disrupting London society and refusing to marry her betrothed, a dispeptic British prince. She ignores those who would dampen her exuberant nature. Now to save her family, she will do anything, even barge into a stranger’s bathing room and upbraid him for his failures, while the poor fellow stands before her naked.

Torn by desire, he must save her, then leave her…if he can bear to let her go.

Dirk, Lord Fournier is heaven to look at. A charming devil to be near.

But he agrees to help her. After all, rescuing dispossessed European royalty from the clutches of the French is his specialty.

He’s failed at so much else, but he’ll do her bidding. He’ll save her family. He’ll even save her reputation, damn his righteous soul…but must never touch her.

Her fire is enchanting. Her kisses, an ineluctable lure. Still, a crown princess is not for him. He’s a mere baron, English at that, and a spy in Scarlett Hawthorne’s network.

He’s unworthy of Liesel, his reputation tarnished by a lie he ruined a woman, denied her claim and left her alone to bear the shame.

•••••••

REVIEW: I recently picked up *Lord Fournier’s Shameless Princess*, and let me tell you, it was a delightful journey through Regency-era drama and romance!

From the very first page, I was drawn into Elizabeth “Liesel” von Rittenburg’s world. She’s no ordinary princess, her fierce determination to save her siblings from the clutches of the French made me admire her strength and resourcefulness.

The moment Liesel barged into Lord Fournier’s bathing room was pure comedic genius! I found myself laughing out loud, picturing the shock on his face as she confronted him, stark naked and unapologetically bold. 😝

Their chemistry was electric from the start, and Dirk, Lord Fournier, was a charming and dashing counterpart to Liesel’s fiery spirit. I could feel the tension between them, torn between their duty and undeniable attraction.

The exploration of societal expectations and personal desires was well-crafted. Liesel’s refusal to be tethered by her betrothal to a gloomy British prince resonated with me. She challenges norms, which made her all the more relatable. As I turned each page, I was rooting for her not just to save her family, but to find her own happiness.

Dirk’s internal conflict was beautifully depicted. Despite his initial hesitations about his status and perceived limitations, his willingness to assist Liesel painted him as a true hero. I loved that he was more than just eye candy, his loyalty and bravery really came through.

Overall, *Lord Fournier’s Shameless Princess* is a captivating blend of humor, romance, and adventure.

It kept me entertained, and I eagerly turned the pages until the very end.

So, If you’re looking for a historical romance with a fierce heroine and a dashing hero, this book is a must-read!

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Lord Ashley’s Beautiful Alibi
Lord Ramsay’s Redheaded Ruin
Lord Appleby’s Gorgeous Imposter

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie

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LORD APPLEBY’S GORGEOUS IMPOSTER by Cerise Deland-review

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LORD APPLEBY’S GORGEOUS IMPOSTER (Scarlett Affairs 3) by Cerise Deland-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 27,2024

He’s the last man Viv wants to see.
Vivienne de Massé goes to Paris impersonating her oldest sister, the infamous Drury Lane actress, Charmaine Massey. Viv has a reason…and a plan to avenge the capture and death of their other sister during the Terror. Only one man can stop her.

Tate Cantrell is the only man who sees right through her.
Tate Cantrell bursts into her dressing room one night in Paris and calls Viv’s bluff. He reminds Viv she plays a role—and a dangerous game she cannot win alone.

He declares she needs him. She always has. Indeed, he’s spent the last decade helping the émigré Massé family—and falling in love with charming Viv. Now the Earl of Appleby, Tate works as a spy for Scarlett Hawthorne’s network on the Continent. He alone has the means and the connections to help her….if she’ll let him.

Haunted by their past, they’re desperate to save their future together… If they can survive those who would destroy them.

•••••

REVIEW:Book three in this series. I’ve read and loved the previous books. There is a connection (the men this the last two books are known by Tate.) But it doesn’t mean you have to read them in order.

This book takes place at the end of the French Revolution, but at the beginning of Napoleon’s renewed war on Britain! It’s dangerous time being in France, families lose lives and loved ones in this period.

The prologue was gripping, this was set just a little earlier (in the French Revolution period!)

Tate has known this family for a long time, he helped Vivienne’s family escape, and took them to his home in England. With Vivienne he definitely wore his heart on his sleeve, and was absolutely terrified and scared that something would happen to her, so he takes it upon himself to find and bring her back!

Vivienne was born in France, but fled to England to escape the terror. Now she’s back to get her revenge! Vivienne, I felt was really tenacious in her search for the truth of that horrible night. And I admired her spirit and courage when she decides to return to France and find her sister.

This book was well written and really well researched, it has a few discrepancies (but that’s the authors take on it and has to write a few things differently.)

Both Tate and Vivienne have feelings for one another, but circumstances have kept them apart. But now he’s got her in his sights, there is nothing stopping him from claiming her, well, except for her! She is consumed with finding justice for her sister.

It’s a fast paced adventure, with lots of intrigue and suspense.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Lord Ashley’s Beautiful Alibi
Lord Ramsay’s Redheaded Ruin

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie 🦋

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Lord Ashley’s Beautiful Alibi by Cerise Deland-review

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Lord Ashley’s Beautiful Alibi (Scarlett Affairs 1 )by Cerise Deland-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 21, 2024

He pretended he was her lover. She became his alibi…and his only love.

Augustine Bolton lives amid the social whirl and treachery of the stylish court of Josephine and Napoleon Bonaparte. When Gus’s dearest friend, Amber, disappears, Gus must find her before the deputy chief of police finds Amber and carts her off to his bed—or to la Force.

But Gus’s means are few and her own duties as an agent in Amber’s network mean she is also suspect. Gus needs help.

Kane Whittington is just the man for the job.

He has worked for London merchant-cum-spymaster Scarlett Hawthorne for years and welcomes Scarlett’s call to build a large espionage network in Europe. His first task is to find the missing head of Scarlett’s espionage network.

The best person to help him is the lady’s best friend whom he’s never met. But when he sets eyes on ravishing Augustine Bolton in Josephine’s salon, Kane recognizes the black-haired beauty as the one he kissed years ago on the road to Malmaison during a botched abduction of Bonaparte.

Kane must persuade the beautiful Gus to allow him to help her. He suggests the cover for their escapade is simple: They show the gossipy Parisian court they enjoy a mad love affair. Thus, Gus gains an ally—and Kane acquires an alibi.

But Gus’s ally is a darling man whose kindness thrills her. His alibi is a brave, beautiful woman he cannot give up. Can they find a way to fulfill their missions—and join together to claim their love for a lifetime?

••••

REVIEW:I’ve only ever read one of this authors books before and I throughly enjoyed it.
So as this is a new series (one book so far, but lots more promised) I thought I’d give it a go…

Kane needs a way into a spy network, and by finding the head of the network will get him where he needs to be. But finding her proves tricky, he needs a cover story……

Augustine (or Gus to her friends) needs to find and rescue her best friend before she becomes a target of the chief of police (he’s got more than his eye on her friend!!) the help she needs requires stealth and guile. But where will she find the help she needs?

Their first meeting was years ago, a stolen kiss and a fond memory of one another. But they need to work together to find Amber, and get her back. But chemistry and sneaky looks at one another soon have the mission hanging in the balance! They are only suppose to play at being in love, it’s only suppose to be a cover! Try telling that to Gus and Kane 😝

An action/adventure story set in the past with a romance thrown in for good measure. A fast paced book that had me reading late into the night, couldn’t put it down! I needed to know what went on next…

Lots of twists and turns, with a few double deals and betrayals thrown in as well. Can Gus and Kane really trust one another? Or are they the only ones they can trust?

Liked how the author spent time on details. Set just before the Napoleonic war. The couple have to decide on wether they can trust one another. Kane is thinking of using Gus to extract the information he needs. It’s nothing personal at first. But spending more and more time with her, Kane struggles with his conscience and his growing admiration and affection for this young woman who isn’t afraid of going against society.

I did like Gus. Her attitude although in the past was very modern in those times. Marriage was basically slavey for the women. And powerful men could do what they liked! So marriage was never going to be on the cards for her.

History mixed with fiction, spies and intrigue. Lots of detail. Beautifully written and well thought out.

I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

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