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Lords of Midnight #1
Too Wicked to Wed
Outspoken and independent, Lady Alexa Bingham enjoys the heady freedom of making all her own decisions, even though the challenges of overseeing her family's country estate are daunting. But when a chance encounter with London's most notorious rake awakens a secret longing for adventure, she accepts her aunt's invitation for a Season in Town . . . only to find that breaking the rules of the ton has serious consequences.
The Earl of Killingworth uses his rakehell reputation to hide the fact that poverty has forced him to work for a living. As the owner of a gambling den and brothel, Connor has no time for glittering ballrooms or innocent young ladies. But after a reckless wager leaves him with a new business partner, he is forced to take a risky gamble . . .
Will the cards fall in their favor? Alexa and Connor begin to play a dangerous game of intrigue and deception as they seek to outwit a cunning adversary who wants to put them permanently out of business. But if they are not careful, it is the flames of their own fiery attraction that may destroy them.
The Earl of Killingworth uses his rakehell reputation to hide the fact that poverty has forced him to work for a living. As the owner of a gambling den and brothel, Connor has no time for glittering ballrooms or innocent young ladies. But after a reckless wager leaves him with a new business partner, he is forced to take a risky gamble . . .
Will the cards fall in their favor? Alexa and Connor begin to play a dangerous game of intrigue and deception as they seek to outwit a cunning adversary who wants to put them permanently out of business. But if they are not careful, it is the flames of their own fiery attraction that may destroy them.
349 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 1, 2011
23 people are currently reading
1202 people want to read
About the author
Cara Elliott
19Ìýbooks223ÌýfollowersCara Elliott started creating books at the age of five, or so her mother tells her. And Mom has the proof preserved in a family scrapbook—a neatly penciled story, the pages lavishly illustrated with full color crayon drawings of horses. Cara has since moved on from Westerns to writing about Regency England, a time and place that has captured her imagination ever since she opened the covers of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.â€�
A graduate of Yale University, Cara has garnered numerous accolades for her writing, including two Daphne Du Maurier Awards for Historical Mystery /Suspense and two RITAs nominations for Regency Romance.
Cara loves to travel to interesting destinations around the world—however, her favorite spot is London, where the funky antique markets, used book stores and specialty museums offer a wealth of inspiration for her stories.
A graduate of Yale University, Cara has garnered numerous accolades for her writing, including two Daphne Du Maurier Awards for Historical Mystery /Suspense and two RITAs nominations for Regency Romance.
Cara loves to travel to interesting destinations around the world—however, her favorite spot is London, where the funky antique markets, used book stores and specialty museums offer a wealth of inspiration for her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
July 5, 2021
3.5 stars | C+
This is the beginning of Cara Elliott’s new trilogy and one of the best things about this book was undoubtedly the aforementioned Lords. I loved the interactions between Connor, Cameron, and Gryff. They each have distinct personalities, which is sometimes a pitfall in these types of historical romance series. I’m most looking forward to Cameron’s story; he’s a mysterious chameleon and I’m very curious as to what his story is.
Lady Alexa is an independent and unusual heroine—who actually was independent and unusual. She is very likeable and has the perfect balance of spitfire and common sense. For many years she was responsible for running the family estate and is much more comfortable in the countryside than in a London ballroom. In various different situations, we see both Alexa’s strength of character and her vulnerability and as I mentioned, she was very consistently written. Some might find her insecurities annoying, but they are all expressed internally, so we’re the only ones who know them; on the outside she remains calm and composed.
I did have some problems with Connor. As a character, he definitely had his moments and there were a lot of times when I really liked him. I’m a fan of the working HR hero, which includes down-on-their-luck lords who have to come up with creative ways to support their family. My main issue was that while Alexa actually was as she was supposed to be, Elliott did not achieve the same authenticity with Connor. He is nicknamed Wolfhound and is supposed to be this grumpy and forbidding man, whom everyone is a little wary of. There were times when that description fit him to a “T�, but it was not done consistently. The “Wolf� thing is mentioned all the time, and while I was expecting someone like ’s Edward de Raaf or ’s Ethan MacCarrick, we’re instead given a milquetoast version.
The dynamic between Alexa and Connor was great and I really enjoyed their exchanges. The chemistry between them was well done, though I didn’t like the first love scene and found it far too corny. I love when standard romance setups are turned around, and that’s the case with , in which Alexa emerges as the pursuer and Connor the one being pursued. She puts herself out there several times, while Connor can’t seem to decide whether he wants to pull her in or push her away. Despite several situations that could have been turned into Big Misunderstandings, Elliott thankfully avoids those opportunities. Because of how the plot unfolds, Alexa and Connor end up having a lot of one-on-one time together, which I liked; unless characters know one another before the book starts, that is almost always necessary in order for me to believe there is a connection beyond lust.
I enjoyed their developing respect and affection for one another, but it was overshadowed a little by the two major obstacles Elliott puts in their way. The interpersonal obstacle felt very contrived and I was never quite clear on why Connor objects the idea of marriage for so long. There are allusions to the standard hero-has-been-alone-and-was-hurt-and-can’t-trust-anyone, as well as he-wants-to-be-with-her-but-he’s-not-right-for-her-and-for-her-own-good-he-will-leave-her-alone, but nothing was fully fleshed out. That last one always drives me crazy, because it is so condescending to the heroine. The mystery plot obstacle was unbelievably ridiculous. The subplot of someone targeting Connor started off well, but the mystery of who is doing it and why did not make any sense and it ended up feeling like something of a farce.
The book was an enjoyable read and despite my criticisms, I did find it hard to put down. Nonetheless, certain aspects could have benefitted from a little more tightening and refining, and were too bothersome to ignore. I like Elliott’s writing style and I always find her characters to have that little something different that keeps them interesting, which is much appreciated by a reader who has read hundreds of historical romances. I look forward to the other two books in the trilogy—Cameron’s in particular—and hope they don’t repeat ’s mistakes.
One of My Favorite Quotes:
Recommendations:
If you like these character types and/or plot setup, you might like �
by Lisa Kleypas
by Lisa Kleypas
by Laura Lee Guhrke
by Amanda Quick
by Sabrina Jeffries
Originally for Fiction Vixen Book Reviews. This review is of an ARC provided by the author/publisher to FVBR.
This is the beginning of Cara Elliott’s new trilogy and one of the best things about this book was undoubtedly the aforementioned Lords. I loved the interactions between Connor, Cameron, and Gryff. They each have distinct personalities, which is sometimes a pitfall in these types of historical romance series. I’m most looking forward to Cameron’s story; he’s a mysterious chameleon and I’m very curious as to what his story is.
Lady Alexa is an independent and unusual heroine—who actually was independent and unusual. She is very likeable and has the perfect balance of spitfire and common sense. For many years she was responsible for running the family estate and is much more comfortable in the countryside than in a London ballroom. In various different situations, we see both Alexa’s strength of character and her vulnerability and as I mentioned, she was very consistently written. Some might find her insecurities annoying, but they are all expressed internally, so we’re the only ones who know them; on the outside she remains calm and composed.
I did have some problems with Connor. As a character, he definitely had his moments and there were a lot of times when I really liked him. I’m a fan of the working HR hero, which includes down-on-their-luck lords who have to come up with creative ways to support their family. My main issue was that while Alexa actually was as she was supposed to be, Elliott did not achieve the same authenticity with Connor. He is nicknamed Wolfhound and is supposed to be this grumpy and forbidding man, whom everyone is a little wary of. There were times when that description fit him to a “T�, but it was not done consistently. The “Wolf� thing is mentioned all the time, and while I was expecting someone like ’s Edward de Raaf or ’s Ethan MacCarrick, we’re instead given a milquetoast version.
The dynamic between Alexa and Connor was great and I really enjoyed their exchanges. The chemistry between them was well done, though I didn’t like the first love scene and found it far too corny. I love when standard romance setups are turned around, and that’s the case with , in which Alexa emerges as the pursuer and Connor the one being pursued. She puts herself out there several times, while Connor can’t seem to decide whether he wants to pull her in or push her away. Despite several situations that could have been turned into Big Misunderstandings, Elliott thankfully avoids those opportunities. Because of how the plot unfolds, Alexa and Connor end up having a lot of one-on-one time together, which I liked; unless characters know one another before the book starts, that is almost always necessary in order for me to believe there is a connection beyond lust.
I enjoyed their developing respect and affection for one another, but it was overshadowed a little by the two major obstacles Elliott puts in their way. The interpersonal obstacle felt very contrived and I was never quite clear on why Connor objects the idea of marriage for so long. There are allusions to the standard hero-has-been-alone-and-was-hurt-and-can’t-trust-anyone, as well as he-wants-to-be-with-her-but-he’s-not-right-for-her-and-for-her-own-good-he-will-leave-her-alone, but nothing was fully fleshed out. That last one always drives me crazy, because it is so condescending to the heroine. The mystery plot obstacle was unbelievably ridiculous. The subplot of someone targeting Connor started off well, but the mystery of who is doing it and why did not make any sense and it ended up feeling like something of a farce.
The book was an enjoyable read and despite my criticisms, I did find it hard to put down. Nonetheless, certain aspects could have benefitted from a little more tightening and refining, and were too bothersome to ignore. I like Elliott’s writing style and I always find her characters to have that little something different that keeps them interesting, which is much appreciated by a reader who has read hundreds of historical romances. I look forward to the other two books in the trilogy—Cameron’s in particular—and hope they don’t repeat ’s mistakes.
One of My Favorite Quotes:
Honor be damned. At that moment, he was sorely tempted to follow her out of bed and do just that. Instead, he contented himself with a crooked grin.
“You are tantalizingly lovely.�
“You are dangerously delirious.�
“Then perhaps you ought to come back to bed and minister to my dying needs.�
Recommendations:
If you like these character types and/or plot setup, you might like �
by Lisa Kleypas
by Lisa Kleypas
by Laura Lee Guhrke
by Amanda Quick
by Sabrina Jeffries
Originally for Fiction Vixen Book Reviews. This review is of an ARC provided by the author/publisher to FVBR.
November 12, 2011
I really rather enjoyed this opener of a new series, provided by netgalley. It has some nice touches which are unusual, and I liked the writing. Towards the end, the story began to fray a little, and it fell too easily into a more standard plot development, so I marked it down. The second half didn't live up to the first half, in my opinion.
What I liked:
- The heroine. OK, so maybe she isn't the most authentic heroine for the period, but I still loved her. She says the wrong thing, is far too curious for her own good, but isn't remotely dippy, is a wonderfully balanced individual and highly efficient and capable. I really liked this. Some women did run country estates for a variety of reasons (their husband died and they managed it for their sons, or they owned it in their own right, or they were just very good at it), and this book convincingly goes to the heart of the consensus that all Regencies seem to have that all women were useless. It really is a case of country v. town, and I loved that.
- The hero. I do have a pathetic weakness for gruff, anti-social and generally unpleasant heroes in my romances, and this one fits that bill, but with a wonderful twist. I also like that he stays grumpy. He doesn't change into a kitten after he falls in lurve with the heroine - nope, he's still a grumpy old git. I also like that he has grey hair. Not sure why I like that, but I do.
- The background. OK, I love, love, love that the hero owns a brothel. Sex was one of the biggest, if not THE biggest industry in England in this period of history. Check out if you don't believe me. It was not considered particularly immoral until the Victorian era (and even then it wasn't really considered immoral by most people). I like that this book takes this fact and doesn't pass judgement on it. I was ambivalent about the hero being a "good" pimp - it wasn't necessary really.
Things I wasn't so keen on:
- As I said, the plot kinda fizzled out in the second half, after what was an excellent first half.
- I didn't like the way the heroine was caught out by the baddie. I'm sorry, but I can't believe someone as reasonable as she would do something that stupid.
- The hero deserved a bit of a pummeling at a couple of points in the books, and I was rather disappointed the heroine didn't deliver them. I have absolutely no doubt that she would have managed it.
So, 3.5 stars, but I pushed it up to 4 because I loved the setting, and am really intrigued by what happens to the other naughty "lords".
What I liked:
- The heroine. OK, so maybe she isn't the most authentic heroine for the period, but I still loved her. She says the wrong thing, is far too curious for her own good, but isn't remotely dippy, is a wonderfully balanced individual and highly efficient and capable. I really liked this. Some women did run country estates for a variety of reasons (their husband died and they managed it for their sons, or they owned it in their own right, or they were just very good at it), and this book convincingly goes to the heart of the consensus that all Regencies seem to have that all women were useless. It really is a case of country v. town, and I loved that.
- The hero. I do have a pathetic weakness for gruff, anti-social and generally unpleasant heroes in my romances, and this one fits that bill, but with a wonderful twist. I also like that he stays grumpy. He doesn't change into a kitten after he falls in lurve with the heroine - nope, he's still a grumpy old git. I also like that he has grey hair. Not sure why I like that, but I do.
- The background. OK, I love, love, love that the hero owns a brothel. Sex was one of the biggest, if not THE biggest industry in England in this period of history. Check out if you don't believe me. It was not considered particularly immoral until the Victorian era (and even then it wasn't really considered immoral by most people). I like that this book takes this fact and doesn't pass judgement on it. I was ambivalent about the hero being a "good" pimp - it wasn't necessary really.
Things I wasn't so keen on:
- As I said, the plot kinda fizzled out in the second half, after what was an excellent first half.
- I didn't like the way the heroine was caught out by the baddie. I'm sorry, but I can't believe someone as reasonable as she would do something that stupid.
- The hero deserved a bit of a pummeling at a couple of points in the books, and I was rather disappointed the heroine didn't deliver them. I have absolutely no doubt that she would have managed it.
So, 3.5 stars, but I pushed it up to 4 because I loved the setting, and am really intrigued by what happens to the other naughty "lords".
July 7, 2023
Well, if you're interested in a dangerous story with a cynical hero that wants to bite everyone's head off, a heroine that does not abide to thr rules in a quite organic way, and where they became the target for murder, I would recommend this book.
3.5 stars.
3.5 stars.
December 25, 2015
3.5 stars
November 2, 2011
This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit .
Expected Release Date: November 1, 2011
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Imprint: Forever
Author’s Website:
My Source for This Book: Netgalley
Part of a Series: Lords of Midnight, Book 1
Series Best Read In Order: N/A
Steam Level: Steamy
Lady Alexa Bingham is tired of the double standard that holds women to a different standard than men. While publicly bowing to society’s dictates, she secretly enjoys scandalous behaviors such as brazenly entering a brothel in search of her brother, and of dressing like a man to indulge in a night of gambling.
When one such evening results in her winning half of the ownership of a notorious brothel, she does not immediately just turn the deed back over from the man who rightfully lost it to her, simply because had she truly been a man, no one would have dared suggest that she should do so.
Now she finds herself paired with the ruthless Earl of Killingworth, a man whose reputation as a rake matches his behavior towards Alexa. Determined to prove that she can bring value to the business, using her experience in running her family estates to improve the finances of the brothel she now owns an interest in, Alexa doesn’t realize that she’s also placing herself in grave danger.
An unknown enemy of Connor’s is determined to ruin him, and has begun to resort to violence as well as theft. When the Earl is injured, Alexa must take initiative that sparks off a series of events that lead to much more than her potential ruination in the eyes of society � her life and her heart are both in danger.
This is my first Cara Elliott novel. I was lucky enough to snag this book off of Netgalley on a whim, and I’m incredibly glad that I did.
Alexa was wonderful � an unapologetic bluestocking, she nonetheless decided to partake of a Season in London despite the fact that she knew she was too plain and sensible to ever blend in with the brainless debutantes of the marriage mart.
I loved that Connor was against a typical loveless society marriage, and instead had actually lowered himself to trade, albeit secretly. Despite his own wicked ways (which of course we learned were not quite as wicked as rumor would have you believe), he quickly became a favorite hero of mine.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. Connor’s reluctance to admit he was falling for Alexa, and Alexa’s strong beliefs that no one would be attracted to her due to her inexperience, unconventional looks, bad behavior, and tendency to flaunt societal conventions all made them both characters that were easy for me to fall in love with.
Recommended for fans of hoyden heroines whose tenacity more than makes up for their recklessness, for jaded yet secretly honorable heroes whose bad reputation is greatly exaggerated, and of discovering that even marriages brought about by a desire to avoid scandal can result in a deep and abidingly love.
4.5/5 Stars.
Expected Release Date: November 1, 2011
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Imprint: Forever
Author’s Website:
My Source for This Book: Netgalley
Part of a Series: Lords of Midnight, Book 1
Series Best Read In Order: N/A
Steam Level: Steamy
Lady Alexa Bingham is tired of the double standard that holds women to a different standard than men. While publicly bowing to society’s dictates, she secretly enjoys scandalous behaviors such as brazenly entering a brothel in search of her brother, and of dressing like a man to indulge in a night of gambling.
When one such evening results in her winning half of the ownership of a notorious brothel, she does not immediately just turn the deed back over from the man who rightfully lost it to her, simply because had she truly been a man, no one would have dared suggest that she should do so.
Now she finds herself paired with the ruthless Earl of Killingworth, a man whose reputation as a rake matches his behavior towards Alexa. Determined to prove that she can bring value to the business, using her experience in running her family estates to improve the finances of the brothel she now owns an interest in, Alexa doesn’t realize that she’s also placing herself in grave danger.
An unknown enemy of Connor’s is determined to ruin him, and has begun to resort to violence as well as theft. When the Earl is injured, Alexa must take initiative that sparks off a series of events that lead to much more than her potential ruination in the eyes of society � her life and her heart are both in danger.
This is my first Cara Elliott novel. I was lucky enough to snag this book off of Netgalley on a whim, and I’m incredibly glad that I did.
Alexa was wonderful � an unapologetic bluestocking, she nonetheless decided to partake of a Season in London despite the fact that she knew she was too plain and sensible to ever blend in with the brainless debutantes of the marriage mart.
I loved that Connor was against a typical loveless society marriage, and instead had actually lowered himself to trade, albeit secretly. Despite his own wicked ways (which of course we learned were not quite as wicked as rumor would have you believe), he quickly became a favorite hero of mine.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. Connor’s reluctance to admit he was falling for Alexa, and Alexa’s strong beliefs that no one would be attracted to her due to her inexperience, unconventional looks, bad behavior, and tendency to flaunt societal conventions all made them both characters that were easy for me to fall in love with.
Recommended for fans of hoyden heroines whose tenacity more than makes up for their recklessness, for jaded yet secretly honorable heroes whose bad reputation is greatly exaggerated, and of discovering that even marriages brought about by a desire to avoid scandal can result in a deep and abidingly love.
4.5/5 Stars.
November 30, 2011
Alexa Hendrie came to London for a season, more at home in the country learning and keeping the family estate running, she feels out of place in glittering ballrooms even though she conducts herself well. I always love a good strong heroine who isn't annoying, and Alexa is such. She may be a little head strong in her decisions like entering a brothel and gaming hell to find her brother. Where she meets our future hero, Connor Linsley. An earl, a rake, and the secret owner behind The Wolf's Lair. Nicknamed the Wolfhound, Connor is all bark and some bite. He doesn't care for his world being turned upside down by Alexa and a mystery villain who targets his business, himself, and eventually Alexa.
When Connor becomes wounded and saved by Alexa they head to his family's estate. A place that holds much sadness from his childhood, his past has shaped his distance and aloofness with relationships. I liked Connor too, he was a strong character who could hold his own as an ex-soldier and businessman. Being thrown together in a situation that forces the two to pose at a married couple, ultimately ends up with a special marriage license. Alexa discovers passion with her new husband, and quickly falls in love. She wastes no time in setting his estate to rights and starts a profitable agricultural venture. Connor is more reluctant in his relationship with Alexa, but he comes around and realizes that he truly loves her. Just as he realizes he could have lost her forever.
I loved the supporting characters,Gryff and especially Cameron. The three gentlemen make up the Hellhounds, an infamous group of rakes, but there is more there than meets the eye to each gentleman. These two also have hound nicknames. I was hoping Cameron's book would be next, but the ending of this book set up book two perfectly, Gryff's book. I would recommend reading this series in order. As the beginning of book two will pick up where book 1 left off.
The villain is not what I had originally guessed, it was clever, but I felt a little cheated as the climatic mystery was rushed. I did however, like that the focus was on Connor and Alexa, the villain being a secondary story. Overall, I did enjoy this book and recommend it to other fans of historical romance.
When Connor becomes wounded and saved by Alexa they head to his family's estate. A place that holds much sadness from his childhood, his past has shaped his distance and aloofness with relationships. I liked Connor too, he was a strong character who could hold his own as an ex-soldier and businessman. Being thrown together in a situation that forces the two to pose at a married couple, ultimately ends up with a special marriage license. Alexa discovers passion with her new husband, and quickly falls in love. She wastes no time in setting his estate to rights and starts a profitable agricultural venture. Connor is more reluctant in his relationship with Alexa, but he comes around and realizes that he truly loves her. Just as he realizes he could have lost her forever.
I loved the supporting characters,Gryff and especially Cameron. The three gentlemen make up the Hellhounds, an infamous group of rakes, but there is more there than meets the eye to each gentleman. These two also have hound nicknames. I was hoping Cameron's book would be next, but the ending of this book set up book two perfectly, Gryff's book. I would recommend reading this series in order. As the beginning of book two will pick up where book 1 left off.
The villain is not what I had originally guessed, it was clever, but I felt a little cheated as the climatic mystery was rushed. I did however, like that the focus was on Connor and Alexa, the villain being a secondary story. Overall, I did enjoy this book and recommend it to other fans of historical romance.
October 23, 2011
***original review posted at ***
Holy carp! Lady Alexa Hendrie is my favorite heroine of the week. She's got fire running through her veins, isn't afraid to tell it like it is and can hold her own against the scariest (to most, except his nearest and dearest) rake in all of London, Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth.
Connor Linsley, typical man that he is, tends to push others away when they get close. He's guarded and protected his heart (sorry Casey from The Bachelor for stealing your catchphrase) for so long, he doesn't know how to let his barriers down until a hellion and a proper lady at that, storms into his gaming hell to find her brother.
Their first kiss sparks something inside both of them. Of course, Connor was trying to teach her a lesson but he might have gotten schooled a little. Alexa doesn't understand her reaction to Connor's kiss and tries to push thoughts of him away.
Connor gets robbed, not only at the gaming tables but all the money in the safe. He is short of funds so his friend Gryff loans him the money. In turn, Connor writes an note making Gryff half owner of The Wolf's Lair. And thus the adventure begins... Alexa goes out, dressed like a man, with her cousin, back to Connor's gaming hell. She's got a knack for cards and wins quite a bit of blunt. Gryff is playing at her table and totally soused. He wants to win back what he's lost and the only thing he's got left is the note. Alexa, with Lady Luck on her side, wins the hand. She's not part owner of The Wolf's Lair.
Between Connor getting shot, Alexa insisting on taking him to Linsley Close to recover, pretending like they're newlyweds and trying to discover who wants to kill Connor, the sparks fly. Their chemistry is explosive, their passion sizzles off the pages and their banter is off the charts hilarious. Alexa isn't afraid to stand up to Connor who is absolutely taken aback by her fiery spirit. With the help of Gryff and Cam, Connor tracks down the person trying to kill him. Alexa tries not to fall in love with her faux husband yet in the end yields to her feelings. It takes Alexa being kidnapped for Connor to realize she's the one (pfft. Typical man!).
FAVORITE QUOTE: "She was an inexperienced young lady and he was a world-weary rake. Despite his many faults, he had never preyed on innocents.
And yet...
Just how innocent could she be? She had dared to disguise herself as a man, she had dared gamble with rakish gamesters. What other rules had she flaunted? What other risks had she taken? He was still sure she hadn't much experience in being kissed. But that didn't necessarily mean she hadn't much experience with men." (***quote subject to change in finished copy***)
OVERALL: To borrow a phrase from Connor, Ye God! What an excitingly fast paced start to a series. The Lords of Midnight (Connor, Gryff and Cam) are deliciously wicked, charming and play off each other like the Three Stooges (only a jillion times more good looking). From the moment Alexa storms into the gaming hell Connor owns, to Linsley Close in the country, back to the rumor filled ballrooms of London, there's a spark waiting to be ignited at every turn, at every touch, at every look and at every word exchanged between the two. Action, adventure, a shot in the dark, a passionate love story, betrayal and kissing (lots of kissing). I am looking forward to what Ms. Elliott has next in store for us aka Gryff's story.
***review copy provided by Jihan Antoine at Hatchette Books***
Holy carp! Lady Alexa Hendrie is my favorite heroine of the week. She's got fire running through her veins, isn't afraid to tell it like it is and can hold her own against the scariest (to most, except his nearest and dearest) rake in all of London, Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth.
Connor Linsley, typical man that he is, tends to push others away when they get close. He's guarded and protected his heart (sorry Casey from The Bachelor for stealing your catchphrase) for so long, he doesn't know how to let his barriers down until a hellion and a proper lady at that, storms into his gaming hell to find her brother.
Their first kiss sparks something inside both of them. Of course, Connor was trying to teach her a lesson but he might have gotten schooled a little. Alexa doesn't understand her reaction to Connor's kiss and tries to push thoughts of him away.
Connor gets robbed, not only at the gaming tables but all the money in the safe. He is short of funds so his friend Gryff loans him the money. In turn, Connor writes an note making Gryff half owner of The Wolf's Lair. And thus the adventure begins... Alexa goes out, dressed like a man, with her cousin, back to Connor's gaming hell. She's got a knack for cards and wins quite a bit of blunt. Gryff is playing at her table and totally soused. He wants to win back what he's lost and the only thing he's got left is the note. Alexa, with Lady Luck on her side, wins the hand. She's not part owner of The Wolf's Lair.
Between Connor getting shot, Alexa insisting on taking him to Linsley Close to recover, pretending like they're newlyweds and trying to discover who wants to kill Connor, the sparks fly. Their chemistry is explosive, their passion sizzles off the pages and their banter is off the charts hilarious. Alexa isn't afraid to stand up to Connor who is absolutely taken aback by her fiery spirit. With the help of Gryff and Cam, Connor tracks down the person trying to kill him. Alexa tries not to fall in love with her faux husband yet in the end yields to her feelings. It takes Alexa being kidnapped for Connor to realize she's the one (pfft. Typical man!).
FAVORITE QUOTE: "She was an inexperienced young lady and he was a world-weary rake. Despite his many faults, he had never preyed on innocents.
And yet...
Just how innocent could she be? She had dared to disguise herself as a man, she had dared gamble with rakish gamesters. What other rules had she flaunted? What other risks had she taken? He was still sure she hadn't much experience in being kissed. But that didn't necessarily mean she hadn't much experience with men." (***quote subject to change in finished copy***)
OVERALL: To borrow a phrase from Connor, Ye God! What an excitingly fast paced start to a series. The Lords of Midnight (Connor, Gryff and Cam) are deliciously wicked, charming and play off each other like the Three Stooges (only a jillion times more good looking). From the moment Alexa storms into the gaming hell Connor owns, to Linsley Close in the country, back to the rumor filled ballrooms of London, there's a spark waiting to be ignited at every turn, at every touch, at every look and at every word exchanged between the two. Action, adventure, a shot in the dark, a passionate love story, betrayal and kissing (lots of kissing). I am looking forward to what Ms. Elliott has next in store for us aka Gryff's story.
***review copy provided by Jihan Antoine at Hatchette Books***
May 13, 2013
Quite some time ago I acquired this from the library, but at the time I hadn't time to read this, so when I saw it on the shelf once more I decided I needed to try it out, just to see if its as good as the reviews of this story I have read recently. This is the first time I have had a chance to read from this author, and I expected it to be a slow, hard to get into story....I do love it when I am proven wrong. From the first few pages, this story sinked its claws into me and wouldn't let go until the end.
We begin with Alexa stepping into a gaming hell trying to rescue her brother from his foolishness but comes across a dangerous man called the "Irish Wolfhound", who is the Earl of Killingsworth, has built up this business on his own but keeps it a secret from the Ton, since they would eat him alive if they ever found out. Alexa and Connor share a sensual embrace with plenty of steamy kisses and *sigh* makes me want to swoon kind of moment. Then we jump to four months later, we see Connor playing in a card game and trying to prove that a fellow man he is playing cards with is cheating, but in the end loses the game (which is practically unheard of for Connor). Then later that night he finds someone has broken in his safe and stolen all of his money, now he is in trouble. He suspects that something foul is going on, and needs to investigate it. Alexa is in need of something more out of her dull life in London, and seeks it in a gaming hell dressed as a man. Where she ends up winning half of the gaming hell in card game, and is forced to deal with Connor and the wicked delights his gaze promises. She ends up by his side in a whirl of danger and suspense and sensual passion. There is such a primal and intense connection between these two from the first, and I loved seeing these two almost battle it out, and in the end---was perfect, and totally satisfied me, and didn't leave me hanging or was too fast paced, I felt like it was wrapped up pretty nicely.
Connor is a very cynical man, dangerous at times, and hides who he truly is to everyone except for those closest to him. He is the type of hero who just want to melt at the sight of. The really sensual yet dangerous and exciting type, that gets the blood pumping. I felt energized when first seeing him on the pages. I couldn't help but just want to take him all in, he has the kind of personality that makes you want more of him. Now Alexa can be a endearing character for the most part. There wasn't any big issue I had with her as a character. I enjoyed seeing how see isn't afraid of Connor like most are. She is the fiery and passionate type of heroine, very independent and doesn't shy away from any danger. She can be bold at times, and I couldn't help but like that about her, even if at times a bit naive, but she was still a fun character that pushed Connor's buttons and I do love a heroine that brings the hero down a peg or two.
Overall I found Too Wicked To Wed a steamy and an exhilarating romance, full of danger and intrigue that is balanced out perfectly with the charming love story that is set out. I do love the suspense element that was put in the story, and only captivated this reader. With plenty of steamy scenes, stimulating characters, and a plot to arouse your senses. Loved this fun tale that made me ache for more from this author, and can't wait to read Gryff's story.
We begin with Alexa stepping into a gaming hell trying to rescue her brother from his foolishness but comes across a dangerous man called the "Irish Wolfhound", who is the Earl of Killingsworth, has built up this business on his own but keeps it a secret from the Ton, since they would eat him alive if they ever found out. Alexa and Connor share a sensual embrace with plenty of steamy kisses and *sigh* makes me want to swoon kind of moment. Then we jump to four months later, we see Connor playing in a card game and trying to prove that a fellow man he is playing cards with is cheating, but in the end loses the game (which is practically unheard of for Connor). Then later that night he finds someone has broken in his safe and stolen all of his money, now he is in trouble. He suspects that something foul is going on, and needs to investigate it. Alexa is in need of something more out of her dull life in London, and seeks it in a gaming hell dressed as a man. Where she ends up winning half of the gaming hell in card game, and is forced to deal with Connor and the wicked delights his gaze promises. She ends up by his side in a whirl of danger and suspense and sensual passion. There is such a primal and intense connection between these two from the first, and I loved seeing these two almost battle it out, and in the end---was perfect, and totally satisfied me, and didn't leave me hanging or was too fast paced, I felt like it was wrapped up pretty nicely.
Connor is a very cynical man, dangerous at times, and hides who he truly is to everyone except for those closest to him. He is the type of hero who just want to melt at the sight of. The really sensual yet dangerous and exciting type, that gets the blood pumping. I felt energized when first seeing him on the pages. I couldn't help but just want to take him all in, he has the kind of personality that makes you want more of him. Now Alexa can be a endearing character for the most part. There wasn't any big issue I had with her as a character. I enjoyed seeing how see isn't afraid of Connor like most are. She is the fiery and passionate type of heroine, very independent and doesn't shy away from any danger. She can be bold at times, and I couldn't help but like that about her, even if at times a bit naive, but she was still a fun character that pushed Connor's buttons and I do love a heroine that brings the hero down a peg or two.
Overall I found Too Wicked To Wed a steamy and an exhilarating romance, full of danger and intrigue that is balanced out perfectly with the charming love story that is set out. I do love the suspense element that was put in the story, and only captivated this reader. With plenty of steamy scenes, stimulating characters, and a plot to arouse your senses. Loved this fun tale that made me ache for more from this author, and can't wait to read Gryff's story.
October 19, 2011
How close do I have to get to the fire before I am burned?
Lady Alexa Hendrie is a country-bred woman that is destined she believes for spinsterhood. She may flirt with the idea of a season in London but the reality of trying to be a tame, controlled woman of society is not going to happen. Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth affectionately known to his Hellhound friends as the Irish Wolfhound. He runs a brothel and gaming hall and is a menace to proper society. Connor wants to run his business, not have Alexa interfering with it but a determined woman can always overrun a snarly man.
Alexa and Connor are connected through her brother but only remotely but enough to give Connor a headache over her requests. He has problems of his own with a mysterious someone trying to ruin his business at best and kill him as a bonus. But a tender kiss and sweet caress is going to be the undoing of Connor too great a temptation for Alexa. Connor has to keep his head in the game to avoid losing everything he cares about but when he starts to care about Alexa the stakes may be too high even for a man who loves to take a chance.
A near fatal accident leads to time secluded for Alexa and Connor where they discover the strength they have together is more powerful than they could have ever imagined. It is more than facts, figures, or business forecasting that has Alexa it is about taking chances and rolling with the circumstances. But the lives of many are being threatened and the mysterious shadow lurking in the background trying to eliminate Connor and all he cares about is drawing closer. Connor may have enemies but not enough to create this situation so solving the problem quickly will put everything to right even his relationship with Alexa.
Commitment may have been a problem for Connor in the past but now his decisions are going to be based on the future even if he is not sure where this will lead.
Cara Elliott writes what every historical romance reader wants � romance with a side of intrigue. Her stories are so rich with character depth and filled with that hint of mystery that make it the perfect complement to every reader’s heart. I look forward to every Cara Elliott book because they are always fascinating and remind you of how timeless true love is.
Lady Alexa Hendrie is a country-bred woman that is destined she believes for spinsterhood. She may flirt with the idea of a season in London but the reality of trying to be a tame, controlled woman of society is not going to happen. Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth affectionately known to his Hellhound friends as the Irish Wolfhound. He runs a brothel and gaming hall and is a menace to proper society. Connor wants to run his business, not have Alexa interfering with it but a determined woman can always overrun a snarly man.
Alexa and Connor are connected through her brother but only remotely but enough to give Connor a headache over her requests. He has problems of his own with a mysterious someone trying to ruin his business at best and kill him as a bonus. But a tender kiss and sweet caress is going to be the undoing of Connor too great a temptation for Alexa. Connor has to keep his head in the game to avoid losing everything he cares about but when he starts to care about Alexa the stakes may be too high even for a man who loves to take a chance.
A near fatal accident leads to time secluded for Alexa and Connor where they discover the strength they have together is more powerful than they could have ever imagined. It is more than facts, figures, or business forecasting that has Alexa it is about taking chances and rolling with the circumstances. But the lives of many are being threatened and the mysterious shadow lurking in the background trying to eliminate Connor and all he cares about is drawing closer. Connor may have enemies but not enough to create this situation so solving the problem quickly will put everything to right even his relationship with Alexa.
Commitment may have been a problem for Connor in the past but now his decisions are going to be based on the future even if he is not sure where this will lead.
Cara Elliott writes what every historical romance reader wants � romance with a side of intrigue. Her stories are so rich with character depth and filled with that hint of mystery that make it the perfect complement to every reader’s heart. I look forward to every Cara Elliott book because they are always fascinating and remind you of how timeless true love is.
May 23, 2019
Tânăra Alexa Hendrie își dorește o viață liniștită, o familie frumoasă și pe cineva care să o iubească așa cum este. Totuși, sufletul ei tânjește după o scânteie, o aventură ieșită din tipare care să nu-i amenințe independența de care se bucură. „Ai grijă ce îți dorești, că s-ar putea să se întâmple� nu mai par doar vorbe aruncate în vânt atunci când, nevoită să plece după fratele ei nesăbuit, se trezește față-n față cu Lupul chiar în vizuina acestuia.
Și ce mai lup! Sărutul pătimaș pe care îl primește de la bărbat o zăpăcește total și o lasă să spere la ceva ce nu va avea vreodată. Crai pasional, unul dintre cei trei Cerberi rebeli ai societății și proprietar al Vizuinii, bordel și tripou totodată, conte de Killingsworth, Connor Linsley întruchipează tentația fructului oprit pentru care și-ar risca propria virtute doar pentru a mai gusta o dată din el. Sentiment reciproc și din partea Lupului care încearcă să nu cedeze în fața ei.
Dar destinul nu e de partea lui atunci când, strâmtorat de bani, îi cedează lui Griff, un alt cerber și prietenul său, jumătate din Vizuină până când avea s-o răscumpere. Într-o seară, Alexa și verișorul ei participă la o petrecere a domnilor, iar fata se costumează într-un tânăr străin venit de la școală. Cu mintea ageră și entuziasmată de ce va urma, Alexa se aruncă direct în gura Lupului (sau să fie oare invers?), câștigând la cărți jumătatea de Viziună de la Gryff. De aici, lucrurile se complică și amândoi vor ajunge parteneri, că vor sau nu, de afaceri și� de plăceri.
Este prima carte a acestei autoare pe care am citit-o și mi-a plăcut atât de mult, încât am dat gata foarte repede și celelalte două volume ale trilogiei. Povestea se parcurge ușor și nu există șansa să te plictisești vreo clipă, aspect pe care l-am remarcat și în poveștile care i-au urmat. Autoarea te cucerește pur și simplu prin stilul ei plin de umor și foarte spiritual!
Și ce mai lup! Sărutul pătimaș pe care îl primește de la bărbat o zăpăcește total și o lasă să spere la ceva ce nu va avea vreodată. Crai pasional, unul dintre cei trei Cerberi rebeli ai societății și proprietar al Vizuinii, bordel și tripou totodată, conte de Killingsworth, Connor Linsley întruchipează tentația fructului oprit pentru care și-ar risca propria virtute doar pentru a mai gusta o dată din el. Sentiment reciproc și din partea Lupului care încearcă să nu cedeze în fața ei.
Dar destinul nu e de partea lui atunci când, strâmtorat de bani, îi cedează lui Griff, un alt cerber și prietenul său, jumătate din Vizuină până când avea s-o răscumpere. Într-o seară, Alexa și verișorul ei participă la o petrecere a domnilor, iar fata se costumează într-un tânăr străin venit de la școală. Cu mintea ageră și entuziasmată de ce va urma, Alexa se aruncă direct în gura Lupului (sau să fie oare invers?), câștigând la cărți jumătatea de Viziună de la Gryff. De aici, lucrurile se complică și amândoi vor ajunge parteneri, că vor sau nu, de afaceri și� de plăceri.
Este prima carte a acestei autoare pe care am citit-o și mi-a plăcut atât de mult, încât am dat gata foarte repede și celelalte două volume ale trilogiei. Povestea se parcurge ușor și nu există șansa să te plictisești vreo clipă, aspect pe care l-am remarcat și în poveștile care i-au urmat. Autoarea te cucerește pur și simplu prin stilul ei plin de umor și foarte spiritual!
November 9, 2011
Lady Alexa finds the life of a proper lady of the ton both boring and constrictive. But she finds ways to bring a little excitement into her life. Like dressing up in a man's clothes for a poker game among gentlemen. It's there she wins half of Connor's brothel from his drunk friend.
Alexa and Connor have met before... shared a couple of fiery kisses. And now with her winnings, she is thrust into his orbit in a way neither ever expected.
Connor is having a string of bad luck. His brothel has been robbed --someone is targeting him and his business. Someone even takes a shot at him, and it's only because of Alexa's presence and quick thinking that he survives. The two escape to his country home for safety and it's there that their mutual attraction begins to grow into something more.
Alexa is a great heroine. She is smart, capable, and she is not afraid to get her hands dirty. Connor needs a little work in the hero department. He fights his feelings for Alexa tooth and nail --and even when it's clear that he's in love with her, he can't bring himself to admit it. But the two of them make a good match.
Despite the fact that it took Connor a while to come around, I enjoyed the romance. I especially liked watching Alexa break down Connor's walls. The passion between the two of them was pretty good as well. There is plenty of action and mystery surrounding the plot against Connor and his business. (Though I think the villain reveal --and especially the motivation-- was pretty weak. It was probably the only part of the book I didn't like.) 4 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
Alexa and Connor have met before... shared a couple of fiery kisses. And now with her winnings, she is thrust into his orbit in a way neither ever expected.
Connor is having a string of bad luck. His brothel has been robbed --someone is targeting him and his business. Someone even takes a shot at him, and it's only because of Alexa's presence and quick thinking that he survives. The two escape to his country home for safety and it's there that their mutual attraction begins to grow into something more.
Alexa is a great heroine. She is smart, capable, and she is not afraid to get her hands dirty. Connor needs a little work in the hero department. He fights his feelings for Alexa tooth and nail --and even when it's clear that he's in love with her, he can't bring himself to admit it. But the two of them make a good match.
Despite the fact that it took Connor a while to come around, I enjoyed the romance. I especially liked watching Alexa break down Connor's walls. The passion between the two of them was pretty good as well. There is plenty of action and mystery surrounding the plot against Connor and his business. (Though I think the villain reveal --and especially the motivation-- was pretty weak. It was probably the only part of the book I didn't like.) 4 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
March 30, 2015
What I enjoyed mostly about Too Wicked to Wed is the romance..
Connor and Alexa's relationship is how they contradict each other; Alexa is a very innocent country girl with a very unlady-like mouth. While The Earl of Killingworth Connor Linsley is an aloof and notorious man. And what I loved about this is how Alexa is no dummy except for the matters of the heart and that is what makes her the Earl's equal in intellect and wit. I loved their banter and it was easy to imagine the two of them together for a long time.
As for the plot, I found that I wasn't completely into it as I'd liked but a few things were interesting.. one was when . Also, the whole pretend-marriage thing was fun. And those make-out scenes HOT!!
The end, why does a woman in these novels have to be in danger for the guy to realize he loves her??!!!
Favorite line:
"I have taken a great many gambles in my life, but I would never risk losing you."
overall, it was really fun but wasn't too interested in the story..
Connor and Alexa's relationship is how they contradict each other; Alexa is a very innocent country girl with a very unlady-like mouth. While The Earl of Killingworth Connor Linsley is an aloof and notorious man. And what I loved about this is how Alexa is no dummy except for the matters of the heart and that is what makes her the Earl's equal in intellect and wit. I loved their banter and it was easy to imagine the two of them together for a long time.
As for the plot, I found that I wasn't completely into it as I'd liked but a few things were interesting.. one was when . Also, the whole pretend-marriage thing was fun. And those make-out scenes HOT!!
The end, why does a woman in these novels have to be in danger for the guy to realize he loves her??!!!
Favorite line:
"I have taken a great many gambles in my life, but I would never risk losing you."
overall, it was really fun but wasn't too interested in the story..
November 1, 2011
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Rating: 3.75 out of 5
Ms. Elliott is an author I’ve never read before, and when I saw that Too Wicked To Wed was the first in a new series, I thought this would be the perfect time to check out her books. Although I had a few issues with some of the nicknames for the male characters (more on that later), I thought this was an engaging read with intriguing characters and steamy romance.
Lady Alexa Hendrie[ii] has always managed her father’s estate, but now that her brother Sebastian is married, she will be relinquishing that job. She therefore decides to head to London and attempts to find a husband on the marriage mart, but her years of study and work on the estate have left her outspoken and intelligent, a dangerous combination in a lady competing with simpering misses. Her impetuous ways have gotten her into trouble before, most notably when she entered the notorious gaming hell and brothel, The Wolf’s Lair, to search for her brother. The owner of the Wolf’s Lair, Connor Linsley, Earl of Killingworth, kissed her silly, and she’s never been able to forget the experience.
Connor Linsley, or the Irish Wolfhound as society likes to call him, is undergoing a run of bad luck. He’s forced to borrow money from his friend Gryffin Dwight to cover his losses at the tables. Unfortunately, during a night of heavy play at the card tables, Gryff writes an IOU on the back of the slip of paper granting him half ownership of the Wolf’s Lair. To compound his error, Gryff’s lost to none other than Lady Alexa, disguised as a Norwegian youth. Suddenly Connor Linsley and Lady Alexa find themselves co-owners of a disreputable gaming hell and the focus of a vicious attack. When the two escape to Linsley Close so Connor can recover from his wounds, they must find a way to fight their attraction to each other, for he is Too Wicked To Wed a young lady like Alexa.
I always enjoy heroines who are intelligent and outspoken, and Lady Alexa is no exception. I like that she’s well-educated in spite of society’s strictures and has experience running an estate, which comes in handy when she arrives at the nearly abandoned Linsley Close. In fact, the time that the hero and heroine spend at Linsley Close is my favorite, because we witness Alexa winning over both Connor and his people. Alexa works hard to restore the manor, and I really enjoyed both her competent manner and upbeat personality.
Connor Linsley is one of the grumpier heroes I’ve read in a while, in addition to being quite the hottie. Nothing says sexy like a bad-boy hero, and you don’t get much worse than a notorious rake who’s secretly running a brothel and a gaming hell. Of course, we learn later that he’s quite the “softie,� as he pays fair wages and protects the women who work for him, even going so far as to help them realize their dreams after they retire. But he can’t resist Alexa’s innocent passion, and frankly he doesn’t put up much of a fight.
I only have two complaints about the novel, the first of which drove me batty while reading. When I read the prologue and several later comments made by Alexa concerning her brother, I was under the impression that they were characters from another book. Sebastian is well-known to the other male characters and apparently has a history with them, since Connor references a favor Sebastian grudgingly owes him. However, when I searched Ms. Elliott’s webpage, I couldn’t find any mention of Sebastian. It’s very possible that I was looking in the wrong place, but the way the action unfolds in the prologue led me to believe that I had started reading in the middle of the series, which is not the case. In fact, Too Wicked to Wed is the beginning of a new trilogy.
My other issue with the novel has to do with the dog-related nicknames for the three male leads featured in the trilogy. Connor is the Irish Wolfhound, his friend Gryff is the Deerhound, and their mysterious friend Cameron is the Bloodhound. Frankly, all the dog references got old quickly. I was a little surprised that the trilogy is entitled Lords of Midnight, because I’m not sure how that title plays into their nicknames. It was a bit odd, and I’m not convinced that Gryff would be the Deerhound just because he runs after women. Cameron’s name, the Bloodhound, seems more appropriate, given his tendency to hunt down and acquire objects for himself and others. Still, it felt forced.
However, the romance was steamy and the heroine spirited, and I really enjoyed their time in the middle of the novel at Linsley Close the most. Since I usually get bored around the halfway point, this was a huge selling point for me. And despite the canine nicknames, the secondary characters were really interesting, and I will without a doubt check out Gryff’s book when it releases.
I received this book for review from the Publisher through NetGalley.
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[i] Just FYI, the mass market paperback version of this book was available last Tuesday, but for some reason the eBook version wasn’t available until today. I’m not sure why that is, because I haven’t seen that sort of delay in releasing an ebook in nearly a year. In fact, just a few weeks ago you could purchase the ebook of Elizabeth Hoyt’s Scandalous Desires a week earlier than the paperback, which also seems odd. Anyway, as of November 1 you should be able to purchase Cara Elliott’s Too Wicked To Wed in either paper or electronic form.
[ii] In the synopsis on Amazon and Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ, she’s referred to as Lady Alexa Bingham, but the ARC and other reviews have called her Alexa Hendrie.
Rating: 3.75 out of 5
Ms. Elliott is an author I’ve never read before, and when I saw that Too Wicked To Wed was the first in a new series, I thought this would be the perfect time to check out her books. Although I had a few issues with some of the nicknames for the male characters (more on that later), I thought this was an engaging read with intriguing characters and steamy romance.
Lady Alexa Hendrie[ii] has always managed her father’s estate, but now that her brother Sebastian is married, she will be relinquishing that job. She therefore decides to head to London and attempts to find a husband on the marriage mart, but her years of study and work on the estate have left her outspoken and intelligent, a dangerous combination in a lady competing with simpering misses. Her impetuous ways have gotten her into trouble before, most notably when she entered the notorious gaming hell and brothel, The Wolf’s Lair, to search for her brother. The owner of the Wolf’s Lair, Connor Linsley, Earl of Killingworth, kissed her silly, and she’s never been able to forget the experience.
Connor Linsley, or the Irish Wolfhound as society likes to call him, is undergoing a run of bad luck. He’s forced to borrow money from his friend Gryffin Dwight to cover his losses at the tables. Unfortunately, during a night of heavy play at the card tables, Gryff writes an IOU on the back of the slip of paper granting him half ownership of the Wolf’s Lair. To compound his error, Gryff’s lost to none other than Lady Alexa, disguised as a Norwegian youth. Suddenly Connor Linsley and Lady Alexa find themselves co-owners of a disreputable gaming hell and the focus of a vicious attack. When the two escape to Linsley Close so Connor can recover from his wounds, they must find a way to fight their attraction to each other, for he is Too Wicked To Wed a young lady like Alexa.
I always enjoy heroines who are intelligent and outspoken, and Lady Alexa is no exception. I like that she’s well-educated in spite of society’s strictures and has experience running an estate, which comes in handy when she arrives at the nearly abandoned Linsley Close. In fact, the time that the hero and heroine spend at Linsley Close is my favorite, because we witness Alexa winning over both Connor and his people. Alexa works hard to restore the manor, and I really enjoyed both her competent manner and upbeat personality.
Connor Linsley is one of the grumpier heroes I’ve read in a while, in addition to being quite the hottie. Nothing says sexy like a bad-boy hero, and you don’t get much worse than a notorious rake who’s secretly running a brothel and a gaming hell. Of course, we learn later that he’s quite the “softie,� as he pays fair wages and protects the women who work for him, even going so far as to help them realize their dreams after they retire. But he can’t resist Alexa’s innocent passion, and frankly he doesn’t put up much of a fight.
I only have two complaints about the novel, the first of which drove me batty while reading. When I read the prologue and several later comments made by Alexa concerning her brother, I was under the impression that they were characters from another book. Sebastian is well-known to the other male characters and apparently has a history with them, since Connor references a favor Sebastian grudgingly owes him. However, when I searched Ms. Elliott’s webpage, I couldn’t find any mention of Sebastian. It’s very possible that I was looking in the wrong place, but the way the action unfolds in the prologue led me to believe that I had started reading in the middle of the series, which is not the case. In fact, Too Wicked to Wed is the beginning of a new trilogy.
My other issue with the novel has to do with the dog-related nicknames for the three male leads featured in the trilogy. Connor is the Irish Wolfhound, his friend Gryff is the Deerhound, and their mysterious friend Cameron is the Bloodhound. Frankly, all the dog references got old quickly. I was a little surprised that the trilogy is entitled Lords of Midnight, because I’m not sure how that title plays into their nicknames. It was a bit odd, and I’m not convinced that Gryff would be the Deerhound just because he runs after women. Cameron’s name, the Bloodhound, seems more appropriate, given his tendency to hunt down and acquire objects for himself and others. Still, it felt forced.
However, the romance was steamy and the heroine spirited, and I really enjoyed their time in the middle of the novel at Linsley Close the most. Since I usually get bored around the halfway point, this was a huge selling point for me. And despite the canine nicknames, the secondary characters were really interesting, and I will without a doubt check out Gryff’s book when it releases.
I received this book for review from the Publisher through NetGalley.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[i] Just FYI, the mass market paperback version of this book was available last Tuesday, but for some reason the eBook version wasn’t available until today. I’m not sure why that is, because I haven’t seen that sort of delay in releasing an ebook in nearly a year. In fact, just a few weeks ago you could purchase the ebook of Elizabeth Hoyt’s Scandalous Desires a week earlier than the paperback, which also seems odd. Anyway, as of November 1 you should be able to purchase Cara Elliott’s Too Wicked To Wed in either paper or electronic form.
[ii] In the synopsis on Amazon and Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ, she’s referred to as Lady Alexa Bingham, but the ARC and other reviews have called her Alexa Hendrie.
November 11, 2011
This was a good historical romance with one annoying issue. I'm sucker for a good unusual heroine and the rake story and this one is no exception. I enjoyed both Connor and Alexa and liked watching their romance blossom. I loved Alexa and her struggle with trying to lead a more interesting life than was allowed to most ladies. In some ways she reminded me of Callie from , which is a good thing in my book. Connor is pretty typical rake material but it doesn't take long to find his gooey center.
My issue was with the conceit of the "hellhounds" and the nicknames and allusions to it throughout. Connor is referred to as the "Irish Wolfhound" and that part makes a bit of sense as he is Irish and has silvery hair. But, he is sometimes referred to as a wolf or as a predator. I'm not sure if something got switched but a Wolfhound and a wolf are very different. I know that Wolfhounds used to be fearsome creatures but the current breed are docile, sweet tempered lugs. So that was a little hard to reconcile, knowing an Irish Wolfhound who's most fearsome quality is that he may lean on you until your fall over. And the dog allusions continue throughout the book, pups, curs, flanks, paws, it's all there. And it's a shame because I felt like it would take me out of the story and detracted from what was otherwise a nice romance. Still, when Connor and Alexa were interacting most of this fell away and I was definitely enjoying their story. And since I'm also a sucker for a series I'll check out the next one as well.
My issue was with the conceit of the "hellhounds" and the nicknames and allusions to it throughout. Connor is referred to as the "Irish Wolfhound" and that part makes a bit of sense as he is Irish and has silvery hair. But, he is sometimes referred to as a wolf or as a predator. I'm not sure if something got switched but a Wolfhound and a wolf are very different. I know that Wolfhounds used to be fearsome creatures but the current breed are docile, sweet tempered lugs. So that was a little hard to reconcile, knowing an Irish Wolfhound who's most fearsome quality is that he may lean on you until your fall over. And the dog allusions continue throughout the book, pups, curs, flanks, paws, it's all there. And it's a shame because I felt like it would take me out of the story and detracted from what was otherwise a nice romance. Still, when Connor and Alexa were interacting most of this fell away and I was definitely enjoying their story. And since I'm also a sucker for a series I'll check out the next one as well.
April 24, 2022
I can't wait to read Cam and Gryff's story.
This was a fun read. I prefer stories about strong women who are unapologetic about who they are and want they want. Alexa and Connor are both strong willed and make for an entertaining read. Lady's aren't supposed to ever be in a Brothel, but Alexa won't be deterred when she has a mission to accomplish. They both realize that they are better together tan apart. I definitely recommend.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for the eARC for review.
This was a fun read. I prefer stories about strong women who are unapologetic about who they are and want they want. Alexa and Connor are both strong willed and make for an entertaining read. Lady's aren't supposed to ever be in a Brothel, but Alexa won't be deterred when she has a mission to accomplish. They both realize that they are better together tan apart. I definitely recommend.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for the eARC for review.
April 28, 2014
Lady Alexa Bingham hasn’t been raised in quite the same way as other ladies of noble birth. She enjoys independence and plain-speaking. She has also seen to much of the family’s country estate and is practical and knowledgeable, having received an education that would be similar to the one a boy would. Needing to find the whereabouts of her brother, Lady Alexa ventures into a brothel and gaming house, owned by the notorious Earl of Killingworth, aka The Irish Wolfhound.
An unreformed rake, the Wolfhound agrees to help her locate her brother in return for a kiss and Lady Alexa is surprised that the only man who has ever interested her is a man such as he. In Town for a season, she finds the young men boring and insipid and isn’t surprised when they aren’t interested in her either. After all, she’s not one to quietly sit and simper and hold her tongue. But the Wolfhound is different � although titled he’s also impoverished and has turned to replenishing the family fortune by way of peddling debauchery. When the Earl of Killingworth is taken for a ride and a large amount of his cash is stolen he is forced to take a loan from a friend. A proud man, he stakes half his business on the loan, which his friend promptly then loses in a card came�.to Lady Alexa Bingham.
Now business partners, Lady Alexa and the Wolfhound are together when someone makes an attempt on his life. They know Lady Alexa’s identity too and it is decided that for the safety of them both, they will retreat to the Earl of Killingworth’s entailed estate for him to recuperate and while his close friends investigate in Town. This of course, places Lady Alexa in a very dangerous position. If anyone were to know that she had been secluded away with him, she would be ruined.
However, being ruined is starting to look like a very attractive option�
So recently my eldest son was struck down with a terrible form of the flu. It took the rest of us down brutally, especially my youngest son and for a while, sleep was scarce and life was a never-ending cycle of taking temperatures, distributing medicine (my eldest will take anything but the oral steroids the doctor prescribed made him nauseous so I had to hide them, my youngest views most medicine as evil being sent to destroy him and I basically have to ram it down his throat) and feeling like utter crap. Because of that, I couldn’t really concentrate much on reading so I tried to pick lighter books, ones that didn’t require a huge amount of my attention and that I could put down if I need to attend to one of the kids (which was often). I found this one on my kindle � I probably requested it a couple of years ago, if the publication date is anything to go by, and never got around to reading it. I was in the mood for a historical romance and decided to give it a go and for the most part it delivered exactly what I wanted it to.
Both Lady Alexa and Connor, the Earl of Killingworth, aka the Irish Wolfhound are quite different to others in the Ton in that Lady Alexa has had a less than conventional upbringing and Connor has needed to secretly resort to trade in order to replenish the family fortune that his father gambled away. He had a deeply miserable childhood (don’t they all?) and hasn’t returned to his country estate which is entailed and could not, therefore, be gambled away, in many years and in fact never intended to return to it ever again. However circumstances beyond his control lead to him being taken there by Lady Alexa after consultation with one of the Earl’s friends after he is shot. It’s very remote and no one will know where they are, which will allow him to recuperate in safety and also keep Alexa safe too, as they know her identity. Although the Earl is very unhappy to be back in his childhood home, he slowly comes to be very impressed by the ideas and enthusiasm Lady Alexa has for it. It need not be shut up and crumbling into a ruin, with a bit of care and attention it could become a thriving estate and a way for him to earn back some of the money he needs. And if he’s willing to let it, it could also become a home for him, with Lady Alexa.
I quite enjoyed the developing attraction between the Earl and Lady Alexa from their first encounter up until they’re bascially living as a married couple at his estate. Because they’re both quite different from their social group, with Lady Alexa being outspoken and educated to run an estate and oversee all of its capacities, and the Earl having to engage in trade, which is a big no-no among the titled, they are both looking for someone to accept them as they are. Although the Earl has not had exposure to many positive marriages and seems uninterested in entering one himself�.until he realises just what damage he will cause Alexa by having her with him. It’s secluded but there’s always the possibility of word escaping. The sexual attraction between the two of them is off the charts for both of them and he begins to feel as though he might be able to make it work, given the right amount of effort.
However despite enjoying their relationship and their sparring with each other, there’s no denying that the story lags in the middle and goes no where for a while. What should be interesting as they’re cooped up in the Earl’s family home isn’t anywhere near as much as it could and should be. Also, the ending is really weak and didn’t really seem motivation enough for the crimes that were being committed and the culprit was kind of funny but not really all that believable. It kind of took away from the mystery element of the story which dragged down the overall experience a bit. However the two characters that make up books 2 and 3 of this series were really interesting in their little snippets and I’d be interested in following it on and seeing what happens to them and maybe getting a glimpse or two of Connor and Alexa in the future.
An unreformed rake, the Wolfhound agrees to help her locate her brother in return for a kiss and Lady Alexa is surprised that the only man who has ever interested her is a man such as he. In Town for a season, she finds the young men boring and insipid and isn’t surprised when they aren’t interested in her either. After all, she’s not one to quietly sit and simper and hold her tongue. But the Wolfhound is different � although titled he’s also impoverished and has turned to replenishing the family fortune by way of peddling debauchery. When the Earl of Killingworth is taken for a ride and a large amount of his cash is stolen he is forced to take a loan from a friend. A proud man, he stakes half his business on the loan, which his friend promptly then loses in a card came�.to Lady Alexa Bingham.
Now business partners, Lady Alexa and the Wolfhound are together when someone makes an attempt on his life. They know Lady Alexa’s identity too and it is decided that for the safety of them both, they will retreat to the Earl of Killingworth’s entailed estate for him to recuperate and while his close friends investigate in Town. This of course, places Lady Alexa in a very dangerous position. If anyone were to know that she had been secluded away with him, she would be ruined.
However, being ruined is starting to look like a very attractive option�
So recently my eldest son was struck down with a terrible form of the flu. It took the rest of us down brutally, especially my youngest son and for a while, sleep was scarce and life was a never-ending cycle of taking temperatures, distributing medicine (my eldest will take anything but the oral steroids the doctor prescribed made him nauseous so I had to hide them, my youngest views most medicine as evil being sent to destroy him and I basically have to ram it down his throat) and feeling like utter crap. Because of that, I couldn’t really concentrate much on reading so I tried to pick lighter books, ones that didn’t require a huge amount of my attention and that I could put down if I need to attend to one of the kids (which was often). I found this one on my kindle � I probably requested it a couple of years ago, if the publication date is anything to go by, and never got around to reading it. I was in the mood for a historical romance and decided to give it a go and for the most part it delivered exactly what I wanted it to.
Both Lady Alexa and Connor, the Earl of Killingworth, aka the Irish Wolfhound are quite different to others in the Ton in that Lady Alexa has had a less than conventional upbringing and Connor has needed to secretly resort to trade in order to replenish the family fortune that his father gambled away. He had a deeply miserable childhood (don’t they all?) and hasn’t returned to his country estate which is entailed and could not, therefore, be gambled away, in many years and in fact never intended to return to it ever again. However circumstances beyond his control lead to him being taken there by Lady Alexa after consultation with one of the Earl’s friends after he is shot. It’s very remote and no one will know where they are, which will allow him to recuperate in safety and also keep Alexa safe too, as they know her identity. Although the Earl is very unhappy to be back in his childhood home, he slowly comes to be very impressed by the ideas and enthusiasm Lady Alexa has for it. It need not be shut up and crumbling into a ruin, with a bit of care and attention it could become a thriving estate and a way for him to earn back some of the money he needs. And if he’s willing to let it, it could also become a home for him, with Lady Alexa.
I quite enjoyed the developing attraction between the Earl and Lady Alexa from their first encounter up until they’re bascially living as a married couple at his estate. Because they’re both quite different from their social group, with Lady Alexa being outspoken and educated to run an estate and oversee all of its capacities, and the Earl having to engage in trade, which is a big no-no among the titled, they are both looking for someone to accept them as they are. Although the Earl has not had exposure to many positive marriages and seems uninterested in entering one himself�.until he realises just what damage he will cause Alexa by having her with him. It’s secluded but there’s always the possibility of word escaping. The sexual attraction between the two of them is off the charts for both of them and he begins to feel as though he might be able to make it work, given the right amount of effort.
However despite enjoying their relationship and their sparring with each other, there’s no denying that the story lags in the middle and goes no where for a while. What should be interesting as they’re cooped up in the Earl’s family home isn’t anywhere near as much as it could and should be. Also, the ending is really weak and didn’t really seem motivation enough for the crimes that were being committed and the culprit was kind of funny but not really all that believable. It kind of took away from the mystery element of the story which dragged down the overall experience a bit. However the two characters that make up books 2 and 3 of this series were really interesting in their little snippets and I’d be interested in following it on and seeing what happens to them and maybe getting a glimpse or two of Connor and Alexa in the future.
April 4, 2012
~* 3.5 Stars *~
A Debut with Several Good Points
Things aren't going so well for the Irish Wolfhound Connor Linsley. As the Earl of Killingworth, he is known as a gambler and a rake, but few know he owns The Wolf's Lair. It's positively unseemly for a man of his station to actually work for a living, after all, let alone own a notorious gaming hell and brothel. Still, it's been a lucrative business...until he's cheated at cards and his office is robbed. Suddenly, his pockets are dangerously light, and he's forced to reluctantly accept some financial assistance from a good friend, putting up half of The Lair as collateral for a loan. It's a decision that doesn't sit well with the independent Connor.
He should have listened to his gut.
Strangled by the constraints of society, the unconventional Lady Alexa Hendrie stirs trouble nearly everywhere she goes. Now she's in London for the season, and it's not exactly going well...not that she expected any different. In part to cheer herself up and in part because she's just that reckless, she accepts her cousin's radical suggestion for a night's entertainment. She dresses up as a man and, with her cousin's help, gets into a high stakes card game. And wins. It's the most fun she's had since she came to London.
It's also how a lady of her standing came to own half of a gaming hell and brothel known as The Wolf's Lair.
Linsley is incensed by his friend's actions, actions that have put half of his business into the hands of the lovely and oh-so-stubborn Lady Alexa. He has every intention of doing whatever is necessary to get it back, though every encounter with the blasted woman gets his temper throbbing as fast and hard as his pulse. Before he gets a chance to charm her into handing him back his business, though, he and Lady Alexa are attacked and he gets shot.
It's clear by that point that someone is out to bring down the Irish Wolfhound using the most heinous measures. Lady Alexa, unconventional woman that she is, has decided not to let them. Especially considering how alive she feels since meeting her rakish Earl.
~*~
Cara Elliott's Lords of Midnight series debut offers up a pleasant historical romance, but there were a few elements of the story and characters that kept it from being a totally solid read for me. Though strong female lead characters are always a preference of mine, and Alexa certainly fit the bill with her no nonsense air, quick mind, and country lass upbringing, I'm tired of the virginal almost-spinster type in the subgenre.
Actually, that's a part of a larger issue I have with historical romances. The character archetypes are so limited for female protagonists that it doesn't breed a lot of variety. Maybe that's a product of an attempt for historical accuracy, but it bothers me, none the less. In the case of this book, I was also a little surprised by the lack of surrounding family in Alexa's life. Other than the trouble-making cousin of hers at the beginning, readers don't actually see anyone - family, friend, or guardian, who is in any way close to Alexa or responsible for her safety, reputation, social season...nothing. That struck me as so odd for a young woman, even one who is feeling constrained by her social standing, that I ended up perplexed by the absence. We don't even hear from her brother, who is oft mentioned yet never seen.
And that brings up another issue I had with the book. Though it's marked as a series debut, it doesn't exactly read that way. The prologue was odd, and the mentions of the mysterious Seb and his new bride lent an air of previous story that I've missed. I can deal with that when I'm entering an existing series somewhere other than the beginning, but it bugs me in a book that's marked as the first.
Lord Killingworth was a nice enough male lead. I liked Connor. I don't know that I totally bought him as the Irish Wolfhound, though. For all his supposed reputation, he got shot and nearly ruined at various points in the book and didn't have many of his actions bear fruit. I liked him with Alexa, though. I wish the evolution of his feelings for her had been a little more clearly delineated, but their romance was the high point of the book for me and the two of them were quite nice together.
Story elements caused me some grief throughout the book. Connor owning the Wolf's Lair is supposed to be a big secret, if I understand correctly, but given that every character in the book knows he does, it didn't seem a very well kept secret. And the external conflict, the plot threads of the Bad Guy moving against Connor with increasing deadly intent wasn't woven together with as much detail necessary to seem a legitimate threat and a plausible crisis. The motives that are revealed, the impetus that stirred the pot and started it all, seemed...oddly anticlimactic and a bit disappointing. I was hoping for a more complex conspiracy.
And there's the rub. The heart of the matter. Overall none of the elements of the story or the characters who inhabit it struck me as particularly complex. Everything seemed fairly linear and too straightforward. The story was well written enough that the romance between Alexa and Connor had appeal, and I did truly enjoy their time at his family estate, but the beginning chapters seemed awkward to me, the final few chapters lost me once the antagonist's identity and motive was revealed, and the overall story lacked a level of complexity to really elevate this into a book I truly enjoyed. It was almost there. Just not quite.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Forever publisher Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comment are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for .
A Debut with Several Good Points
Things aren't going so well for the Irish Wolfhound Connor Linsley. As the Earl of Killingworth, he is known as a gambler and a rake, but few know he owns The Wolf's Lair. It's positively unseemly for a man of his station to actually work for a living, after all, let alone own a notorious gaming hell and brothel. Still, it's been a lucrative business...until he's cheated at cards and his office is robbed. Suddenly, his pockets are dangerously light, and he's forced to reluctantly accept some financial assistance from a good friend, putting up half of The Lair as collateral for a loan. It's a decision that doesn't sit well with the independent Connor.
He should have listened to his gut.
Strangled by the constraints of society, the unconventional Lady Alexa Hendrie stirs trouble nearly everywhere she goes. Now she's in London for the season, and it's not exactly going well...not that she expected any different. In part to cheer herself up and in part because she's just that reckless, she accepts her cousin's radical suggestion for a night's entertainment. She dresses up as a man and, with her cousin's help, gets into a high stakes card game. And wins. It's the most fun she's had since she came to London.
It's also how a lady of her standing came to own half of a gaming hell and brothel known as The Wolf's Lair.
Linsley is incensed by his friend's actions, actions that have put half of his business into the hands of the lovely and oh-so-stubborn Lady Alexa. He has every intention of doing whatever is necessary to get it back, though every encounter with the blasted woman gets his temper throbbing as fast and hard as his pulse. Before he gets a chance to charm her into handing him back his business, though, he and Lady Alexa are attacked and he gets shot.
It's clear by that point that someone is out to bring down the Irish Wolfhound using the most heinous measures. Lady Alexa, unconventional woman that she is, has decided not to let them. Especially considering how alive she feels since meeting her rakish Earl.
~*~
Cara Elliott's Lords of Midnight series debut offers up a pleasant historical romance, but there were a few elements of the story and characters that kept it from being a totally solid read for me. Though strong female lead characters are always a preference of mine, and Alexa certainly fit the bill with her no nonsense air, quick mind, and country lass upbringing, I'm tired of the virginal almost-spinster type in the subgenre.
Actually, that's a part of a larger issue I have with historical romances. The character archetypes are so limited for female protagonists that it doesn't breed a lot of variety. Maybe that's a product of an attempt for historical accuracy, but it bothers me, none the less. In the case of this book, I was also a little surprised by the lack of surrounding family in Alexa's life. Other than the trouble-making cousin of hers at the beginning, readers don't actually see anyone - family, friend, or guardian, who is in any way close to Alexa or responsible for her safety, reputation, social season...nothing. That struck me as so odd for a young woman, even one who is feeling constrained by her social standing, that I ended up perplexed by the absence. We don't even hear from her brother, who is oft mentioned yet never seen.
And that brings up another issue I had with the book. Though it's marked as a series debut, it doesn't exactly read that way. The prologue was odd, and the mentions of the mysterious Seb and his new bride lent an air of previous story that I've missed. I can deal with that when I'm entering an existing series somewhere other than the beginning, but it bugs me in a book that's marked as the first.
Lord Killingworth was a nice enough male lead. I liked Connor. I don't know that I totally bought him as the Irish Wolfhound, though. For all his supposed reputation, he got shot and nearly ruined at various points in the book and didn't have many of his actions bear fruit. I liked him with Alexa, though. I wish the evolution of his feelings for her had been a little more clearly delineated, but their romance was the high point of the book for me and the two of them were quite nice together.
Story elements caused me some grief throughout the book. Connor owning the Wolf's Lair is supposed to be a big secret, if I understand correctly, but given that every character in the book knows he does, it didn't seem a very well kept secret. And the external conflict, the plot threads of the Bad Guy moving against Connor with increasing deadly intent wasn't woven together with as much detail necessary to seem a legitimate threat and a plausible crisis. The motives that are revealed, the impetus that stirred the pot and started it all, seemed...oddly anticlimactic and a bit disappointing. I was hoping for a more complex conspiracy.
And there's the rub. The heart of the matter. Overall none of the elements of the story or the characters who inhabit it struck me as particularly complex. Everything seemed fairly linear and too straightforward. The story was well written enough that the romance between Alexa and Connor had appeal, and I did truly enjoy their time at his family estate, but the beginning chapters seemed awkward to me, the final few chapters lost me once the antagonist's identity and motive was revealed, and the overall story lacked a level of complexity to really elevate this into a book I truly enjoyed. It was almost there. Just not quite.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Forever publisher Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comment are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for .
December 22, 2021
The DRAMA. Wow. Honestly, I enjoyed this book a ton. Somehow though the next books I’ve picked up are also drama/intrigue and I don’t think I can handle too much of that at once.
January 2, 2012
Originally posted at:
The hero and heroine’s compelling primal attraction to each other, their strong personalities, their unique verbal communication, and their sizzling, breath-taking love encounters propel the story along with urgency.
The strictures of Polite Society are like a cage for independent, intelligent Alexa Hendrie. Reared by a father who allowed her to study mathematics and agriculture, Alexa had put her knowledge to use to salvage the neglected family estate in Yorkshire after her father’s death. Consequently, when her brother Sebastian returned from the Peninsula Wars, he had a prosperous estate to bring a wife to, leaving Alexa feeling as if she was homeless. Even though she was welcome to stay, she felt that the newlyweds did not need her around.
Off to London she goes to stay with Aunt Adelaide to try a Season in Town thinking she’d check out the marriage market for one Season before settling into spinsterhood. The insipid parties, teas, soirees, and endless dances with foppish men bored the country-bred Alexa. The simpering, giggly, porcelain-skinned “young ladies� seeking husbands made her feel like a total misfit.
Then Alexa’s cousin Henry offers to take her on a risqué night into the less-than-proper part of London. She dresses in disguise and has fun but stirs up a hornet’s nest when she wins at cards and ends up with a vowel for half ownership of a brothel “The Wolf’s Lair� owned by the Irish Wolfhound, Connor Linsley, Earl of Kettlingsworth—a hard-bitten ex-soldier who had chosen to work for money rather than marry for money and consequently disgraced himself with the Ton.
Connor Linsley lives up (or down) to his nickname with his tendency to snarl, be ill-tempered and dangerous if crossed or challenged. Few have knowledge of his philanthropic deeds and no one dares to delve into his past—a past that strongly influences his present attitudes. However, during the Peninsula Wars, he forged relationships with comrades that cemented loyalties that will last a lifetime.
The cynical Cameron Daggett with a wicked sense of humor, known as Bloodhound and rich Gryffin Owain Dwight, marquess of Hadhan, known as Deerhound, are dependable and steadfast friends. They too have intriguing lives, but rally to Connor’s defense at first sign of danger.
The secondary character that is behind all the efforts to bring the prosperous Irish Wolfhound down is a mystery. Connor’s friends and associates, both reputable and disreputable, work to ferret out information while Connor and Alexa are secluded at his dilapidated estate after escaping a trap where he was shot. Their time on the coast is captivating reading.
What seemed an ugly business partnership metamorphoses into an incredibly beautiful love partnership, but not without a struggle through a tough cocoon of hurts, misgivings, and self-doubts that impedes the development at times.
Cara Elloitt’s characters radiate an aliveness charged with strong emotions and energy. Their flaws and foibles are very evident, but they are overshadowed by the determined, “can-do� attitude that creates actions that sweep the reader into a plot full of scary, dangerous scenes, Polite Society party scenes, and scenes full of desperation and determination, plus love scenes that range from near violent to sweet ecstasy.
Ms. Elliott writes about a historical era that is familiar, but her characters and their unique situations are fresh and compelling. Too Wicked to Wed is a page-turner with some twists near the end that keep the adrenaline racing through the veins—then concludes with a denouement that brings a sigh and satisfies the heart.
The hero and heroine’s compelling primal attraction to each other, their strong personalities, their unique verbal communication, and their sizzling, breath-taking love encounters propel the story along with urgency.
The strictures of Polite Society are like a cage for independent, intelligent Alexa Hendrie. Reared by a father who allowed her to study mathematics and agriculture, Alexa had put her knowledge to use to salvage the neglected family estate in Yorkshire after her father’s death. Consequently, when her brother Sebastian returned from the Peninsula Wars, he had a prosperous estate to bring a wife to, leaving Alexa feeling as if she was homeless. Even though she was welcome to stay, she felt that the newlyweds did not need her around.
Off to London she goes to stay with Aunt Adelaide to try a Season in Town thinking she’d check out the marriage market for one Season before settling into spinsterhood. The insipid parties, teas, soirees, and endless dances with foppish men bored the country-bred Alexa. The simpering, giggly, porcelain-skinned “young ladies� seeking husbands made her feel like a total misfit.
Then Alexa’s cousin Henry offers to take her on a risqué night into the less-than-proper part of London. She dresses in disguise and has fun but stirs up a hornet’s nest when she wins at cards and ends up with a vowel for half ownership of a brothel “The Wolf’s Lair� owned by the Irish Wolfhound, Connor Linsley, Earl of Kettlingsworth—a hard-bitten ex-soldier who had chosen to work for money rather than marry for money and consequently disgraced himself with the Ton.
Connor Linsley lives up (or down) to his nickname with his tendency to snarl, be ill-tempered and dangerous if crossed or challenged. Few have knowledge of his philanthropic deeds and no one dares to delve into his past—a past that strongly influences his present attitudes. However, during the Peninsula Wars, he forged relationships with comrades that cemented loyalties that will last a lifetime.
The cynical Cameron Daggett with a wicked sense of humor, known as Bloodhound and rich Gryffin Owain Dwight, marquess of Hadhan, known as Deerhound, are dependable and steadfast friends. They too have intriguing lives, but rally to Connor’s defense at first sign of danger.
The secondary character that is behind all the efforts to bring the prosperous Irish Wolfhound down is a mystery. Connor’s friends and associates, both reputable and disreputable, work to ferret out information while Connor and Alexa are secluded at his dilapidated estate after escaping a trap where he was shot. Their time on the coast is captivating reading.
What seemed an ugly business partnership metamorphoses into an incredibly beautiful love partnership, but not without a struggle through a tough cocoon of hurts, misgivings, and self-doubts that impedes the development at times.
Cara Elloitt’s characters radiate an aliveness charged with strong emotions and energy. Their flaws and foibles are very evident, but they are overshadowed by the determined, “can-do� attitude that creates actions that sweep the reader into a plot full of scary, dangerous scenes, Polite Society party scenes, and scenes full of desperation and determination, plus love scenes that range from near violent to sweet ecstasy.
Ms. Elliott writes about a historical era that is familiar, but her characters and their unique situations are fresh and compelling. Too Wicked to Wed is a page-turner with some twists near the end that keep the adrenaline racing through the veins—then concludes with a denouement that brings a sigh and satisfies the heart.
November 26, 2011
Too Wicked To Wed is the first book I read written by Cara Elliott. The story is very interesting and intriguing. I couldn't stop flipping the page and stayed awake to finish the last remain of the story.
The book's a love story with some bits of mystery between Connor and Alexa. Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth or also known as Irish Wolfhound - is a very well-known notorious rake, one of the Hellhounds, owned a gambling and brothel called The Wolf's Lair, very handsome but deadly and dangerous, and he's a husband to Lady Alexa Hendrie or Lady Killingworth now. As for Lady Alexa, she's a plain country girl with admirable curiosity and knowledge, straightforward, high-spirited, and kind.
I enjoyed their romance immensely. They are sweet and passionate with each other. I also enjoyed their banter and it was fun reading about Alexa tried to break the wall between them. I saluted her effort to get to know her husband and her determination to do anything to show her love. Lord Killingworth is just one lucky man. I totally agreed with Cameron Daggett or Bloodhound (also one of the Hellhounds) that Connor should be grateful to have a wife like Alexa.
Besides, I liked the mystery. One of the reasons I managed to read this book till end despite dull at some parts of the story. However, I wasn't that impressed with the reason the Earl's life in danger. I was expecting something more challenging. I expected something to do with competition, rivalry or vengeance.
Anyway, I'm very interested to keep pursuing this series and I'm looking forward for the next installment! Okay, that's all. Au revoir!
The book's a love story with some bits of mystery between Connor and Alexa. Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth or also known as Irish Wolfhound - is a very well-known notorious rake, one of the Hellhounds, owned a gambling and brothel called The Wolf's Lair, very handsome but deadly and dangerous, and he's a husband to Lady Alexa Hendrie or Lady Killingworth now. As for Lady Alexa, she's a plain country girl with admirable curiosity and knowledge, straightforward, high-spirited, and kind.
I enjoyed their romance immensely. They are sweet and passionate with each other. I also enjoyed their banter and it was fun reading about Alexa tried to break the wall between them. I saluted her effort to get to know her husband and her determination to do anything to show her love. Lord Killingworth is just one lucky man. I totally agreed with Cameron Daggett or Bloodhound (also one of the Hellhounds) that Connor should be grateful to have a wife like Alexa.
Besides, I liked the mystery. One of the reasons I managed to read this book till end despite dull at some parts of the story. However, I wasn't that impressed with the reason the Earl's life in danger. I was expecting something more challenging. I expected something to do with competition, rivalry or vengeance.
Anyway, I'm very interested to keep pursuing this series and I'm looking forward for the next installment! Okay, that's all. Au revoir!
July 15, 2012
Loved it! Too Wicked to Wed starts Cara Elliott's new series off amazingly. Main characters Connor and Alexa meet in a brothel where they engage in a steamy kiss up against a very erotic painting. With the story starting out on such an intense note I was worried the author would be hard pressed to continue the momentum. I had no reason to worry. They had a chemistry that was palpable from page one, and it just kept getting better and better. I couldn't get enough of them together. Alexa was so sassy and brave. She is exactly the type of character I hope to encounter when picking up a historical romance novel. Connor was also unbelievably sexy. Wow, wow, wow! He had me swooning. It was easy to see why Alexa became so easily smitten with the man aptly nicknamed "The Irish Wolfhound".
Too Wicked to Wed also offers a healthy dose of suspense. Someone is out to get Connor, and Alexa is eager to help him solve the mystery much to his dismay. I was flipping through the pages of Too Wicked to Wed at a rapid pace eager to discover the "bad guys" as well as to witness more steamy (and a few heartwarming) moments between Alexa and Connor.
We also meet Connor's closest friends, Cameron and Gryff. I think it is safe to assume we will get to know them better as this series continues. I for one can't wait! This was a superb start to a brand new series. Cara Elliott did a great job of creating an engaging story that will leave readers pining for more.
Too Wicked to Wed also offers a healthy dose of suspense. Someone is out to get Connor, and Alexa is eager to help him solve the mystery much to his dismay. I was flipping through the pages of Too Wicked to Wed at a rapid pace eager to discover the "bad guys" as well as to witness more steamy (and a few heartwarming) moments between Alexa and Connor.
We also meet Connor's closest friends, Cameron and Gryff. I think it is safe to assume we will get to know them better as this series continues. I for one can't wait! This was a superb start to a brand new series. Cara Elliott did a great job of creating an engaging story that will leave readers pining for more.
November 18, 2011
4.5 Stars. The review that follows is a partial review. To read the full review, please visit:
When Lady Alexa Hendrie walks into one of London's infamous brothels, The Wolf's Lair, she had no
idea that she would be staking more than just her reputation by being seen in there. She might very well
be risking her heart...
Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth, is the owner of The Wolf's Lair, though his identity is kept
secret from most people. Honestly, he couldn't give a fig about what the ton thinks of him, but despite
what they seem to think about his character he has not sunk nearly as low as they think; he still respects
some of their rules.... But when a lady with fire in her blood barges into his office, his usual biting
remarks and sarcastic barbs are stunned into silence (if only temporarily). Instead, he finds himself
thoroughly intrigued by Alexa, and when she asks for help in locating her brother, whom she believes to
be in his club somewhere, he agrees—but only if she agrees to his cost. The price? A kiss. But neither
one of them were prepared for the hot flames of desire to engulf both of them in it's snares after only a
taste....
....
~*~*~
This review is property of NightOwlRomance.com
When Lady Alexa Hendrie walks into one of London's infamous brothels, The Wolf's Lair, she had no
idea that she would be staking more than just her reputation by being seen in there. She might very well
be risking her heart...
Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth, is the owner of The Wolf's Lair, though his identity is kept
secret from most people. Honestly, he couldn't give a fig about what the ton thinks of him, but despite
what they seem to think about his character he has not sunk nearly as low as they think; he still respects
some of their rules.... But when a lady with fire in her blood barges into his office, his usual biting
remarks and sarcastic barbs are stunned into silence (if only temporarily). Instead, he finds himself
thoroughly intrigued by Alexa, and when she asks for help in locating her brother, whom she believes to
be in his club somewhere, he agrees—but only if she agrees to his cost. The price? A kiss. But neither
one of them were prepared for the hot flames of desire to engulf both of them in it's snares after only a
taste....
....
~*~*~
This review is property of NightOwlRomance.com
December 2, 2011
I think this is the start of a great new historical romance series. I love the three "Lords of Midnight" that the author has introduced. All three characters are definitely different from your run of the mill historical romance rogue. Connor might have been a little grouchy for my tastes, but he meant well, I think, so he was okay. But I loved Gryff and Cameron, the other two Lords of Midnight. I think Cameron will be especially fun to read about in his own story.
I also really liked the heroine, Alexa. She had a lot of spunk, and not in an annoying over-the-top way. I would have loved to have seen her traipsing around town with her cousin even more. They made a great pair, but after their infamous card game, he kind of disappeared.
I liked all of the gambling references and I almost wanted to see some type of card-playing in the title or on the cover. It could have tied in well with the book.
Overall, this is a great start to a new series and we get to meet a while cast of fun and exciting new characters.
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for
I also really liked the heroine, Alexa. She had a lot of spunk, and not in an annoying over-the-top way. I would have loved to have seen her traipsing around town with her cousin even more. They made a great pair, but after their infamous card game, he kind of disappeared.
I liked all of the gambling references and I almost wanted to see some type of card-playing in the title or on the cover. It could have tied in well with the book.
Overall, this is a great start to a new series and we get to meet a while cast of fun and exciting new characters.
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for
January 23, 2016
DNF- skimmed the last few pages
I didn't like this book. It started off with a badly done prologue that had me hating the heroine from the get go and not being so impressed with the hero. The story had a lot of promise with a gray haired, pimp/gambling hero (something i never read about) and a gaming hall setting with theft and intrigue.
Unfortunately, i despised the heroine. She was a complete asshole and a condescending hypocrite. I didn't like her personality. It grated on my nerves until eventually i just couldn't continue.
I skimmed the last few pages and I'm so damn glad I didn't read this book because they don't even admit they love each other UNTIL THE VERY. LAST. POSSIBLE. FUCKING. PARAGRAPH. There isn't even a epilogue or anything. It just ends with them confessing their love (it seemed almost begrudgingly with Connor having to pry it out of her cause she's afraid of his rejection) and if that doesn't tell you that nothing wasn't really resolved emotionally and thus wasn't worth the read, then idk what will.
I probably won't read another Cara Elliot book unless i get a recommendation from a trusted reader/friend. And even then I'd be skeptical.
I didn't like this book. It started off with a badly done prologue that had me hating the heroine from the get go and not being so impressed with the hero. The story had a lot of promise with a gray haired, pimp/gambling hero (something i never read about) and a gaming hall setting with theft and intrigue.
Unfortunately, i despised the heroine. She was a complete asshole and a condescending hypocrite. I didn't like her personality. It grated on my nerves until eventually i just couldn't continue.
I skimmed the last few pages and I'm so damn glad I didn't read this book because they don't even admit they love each other UNTIL THE VERY. LAST. POSSIBLE. FUCKING. PARAGRAPH. There isn't even a epilogue or anything. It just ends with them confessing their love (it seemed almost begrudgingly with Connor having to pry it out of her cause she's afraid of his rejection) and if that doesn't tell you that nothing wasn't really resolved emotionally and thus wasn't worth the read, then idk what will.
I probably won't read another Cara Elliot book unless i get a recommendation from a trusted reader/friend. And even then I'd be skeptical.
November 6, 2011
You can find my full review at
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What a thrilling start to a new series (Lord of Midnight) from Cara Elliott . 'Too Wicked To Wed' is the first book. We are introduced to three men who have become friends while fighting in Portugal. They have made a name for themselves, they are known simply as the Hellhounds. Connor is the Irish Wolfhound, Gryff is known as Deerhound, and Cam Daggett's is Bloodhound.
Connor, the Earl of Killingworth, owns the Wolf's Lair, a gaming hell and brothel. Someone is out to financially ruin Wolf's Lair. From the beginning you knew Lady Alexa Hendrie was not your typical young lady of the ton awaiting yet another season...
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What a thrilling start to a new series (Lord of Midnight) from Cara Elliott . 'Too Wicked To Wed' is the first book. We are introduced to three men who have become friends while fighting in Portugal. They have made a name for themselves, they are known simply as the Hellhounds. Connor is the Irish Wolfhound, Gryff is known as Deerhound, and Cam Daggett's is Bloodhound.
Connor, the Earl of Killingworth, owns the Wolf's Lair, a gaming hell and brothel. Someone is out to financially ruin Wolf's Lair. From the beginning you knew Lady Alexa Hendrie was not your typical young lady of the ton awaiting yet another season...
November 22, 2011
Too Wicked to Wed (Lords of Midnight) introduces us Alexa Hendrics, a smart, business savvy heiress. Alexa isn't looking for a husband, but she's drawn to the incorrigible Connor Lindsley (a.k.a. the Irish Wolfhound). It's clear to everyone around them that this can only bring heartbreak and scandal. Certainly, no one expects Lindsley to fall in love with the beautiful, naive heiress.
Alexa's in love with dangerous rake. But she doesn't resort to the usual feminine wiles. Instead, she approaches him and his problems with a straightforward, carefully thought out approach. And wins Connor's respect and love. The couple faces problems both large and small. Light, fun, and a romantic escape, Cara Elliott delivers once again!
Alexa's in love with dangerous rake. But she doesn't resort to the usual feminine wiles. Instead, she approaches him and his problems with a straightforward, carefully thought out approach. And wins Connor's respect and love. The couple faces problems both large and small. Light, fun, and a romantic escape, Cara Elliott delivers once again!
January 8, 2018
I will not be continuing this series. The leading lady was supposed to be a unique and unconventional woman. Strong and independent. Yet, the slightest thing could set her off into a spiral of oh I'm ugly and no one likes me. The leading man was a dick 98% of the time, and jesus the dog innuendos... Just stop. I get it, stop bashing me over the head with it. The banter sucked, the supporting cast was boring, and I only finished it to see if it would get better (it didn't).
January 10, 2021
Readable and pleasant romance
3 stars
This story shot off at a quick pace with the action of Alexa and Connor's first meeting happening almost instantly and their first kiss not much later than that. That then set the standard for the story as for a long while that was as much as the plot amounted to - meeting and kissing, meeting and kissing, with different settings thrown in each time.
That aside, both Alexa and Connor were likeable enough characters although neither really stood out or really inspired me to care for them individually or as a couple. There were some secondary characters, Gryffin and Cameron - "The Hellhounds" whose books make up the second and third in The Lords of Midnight Trilogy - but they weren't particularly inspiring either. I had assumed that the other couples mentioned in the book were from previous stories by Elliott but can find no mention of their stories anywhere. This confuses me as it felt like I was expected to know these stories and these characters while reading this book.
Despite what I said earlier regarding the plot, I had absolutely no trouble finishing this book and did so quickly enough. The writing was fine, if a little pretentious and flowery for my tastes on rather too many occasions. There were also Americanisms and incorrect usage of British English which were annoying but luckily didn't happen too often to actually spoil the book. I didn't find the love scenes overly sexy or sensual - only a day later I can barely remember them which says something.
Overall, this was a nice story but nothing more than that. It won't be a story that I will remember but it's not offensive and it's worth a read if it's on your shelf or in your Kindle. 3 stars.
April 22, 2019
Tentația fructului oprit- Cara Elliot
Sunt o mare fana a cărților romantice,da,o romantică incurabilă,imi plac cărțile hystorical romance,o carte de 3.5*/5
Lady Alexa,o domnișoară de țară,este nevoită să încalce regulile societății si astfel este condusa in "vizuina lupului",un bordel ,pentru a-si gasi fratele.
Ah,cat de dor imi era de replici acide,sarcasm...
el supranumit lupul Irlandez, ea il face potaie puricoasă ,mi-aș fi dorit mult mai multe replici (recunosc).
Între Connor( lupul irlandez) si Lady Alexa au loc o serie de replici,ce duc la un sărut,ce nu'l uita niciunul dintre ei....
Totul se schimbă cand varul ei,o convinge să poarte haine bărbătești si sa participe la jocuri de cărți,de unde castiga un "gaj" ce o face copropietara ghiciti unde!?!..
Asa ca drumurile celor doi se intersectează mai des,iar un atentat ii face sa fuga din Londra....
Nu se află printre cele mai bune cărți romantice citite,dar este frumușică, perfectă pentru a mai schimba registrul...
Nu mai stiu daca mai am cărți scrise de aceasta autoare ,dar mi-ar plăcea să citesc despre frații ei si prietenii lor(Gryffin-Vanatorul si Cameron)
Sunt o mare fana a cărților romantice,da,o romantică incurabilă,imi plac cărțile hystorical romance,o carte de 3.5*/5
Lady Alexa,o domnișoară de țară,este nevoită să încalce regulile societății si astfel este condusa in "vizuina lupului",un bordel ,pentru a-si gasi fratele.
Ah,cat de dor imi era de replici acide,sarcasm...
el supranumit lupul Irlandez, ea il face potaie puricoasă ,mi-aș fi dorit mult mai multe replici (recunosc).
Între Connor( lupul irlandez) si Lady Alexa au loc o serie de replici,ce duc la un sărut,ce nu'l uita niciunul dintre ei....
Totul se schimbă cand varul ei,o convinge să poarte haine bărbătești si sa participe la jocuri de cărți,de unde castiga un "gaj" ce o face copropietara ghiciti unde!?!..
Asa ca drumurile celor doi se intersectează mai des,iar un atentat ii face sa fuga din Londra....
Nu se află printre cele mai bune cărți romantice citite,dar este frumușică, perfectă pentru a mai schimba registrul...
Nu mai stiu daca mai am cărți scrise de aceasta autoare ,dar mi-ar plăcea să citesc despre frații ei si prietenii lor(Gryffin-Vanatorul si Cameron)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2021
Deci aşa arată un bordel. Nu e nici pe departe cum mi-am imaginat. -Doamne, Dumnezeule mare! îngăimă căpitanul Harley Stiles, ştergându-şi sudoarea de pe frunte. Sper că nu te-ai gândit prea mult la aşa ceva. -N u prea mult, răspunse Lady Alexa Hendrie, examinând îndeaproape o gravură colorată de deasupra unei vitrine. Dar este imposibil să nu fii puţin curios, mai ales că pentru voi, domnilor, acesta e un subiect pe care-1 abordaţi cu mare plăcere în discuţiile voastre. Prietenul fratelui său se aşeză repede în faţa ei, ca să nu mai poată observa gravura ofensatoare. -D e unde naiba ştii tu asta? întrebă el. -S ă înţeleg că nu ai surori, căpitane Stiles, altfel nu ai pune o întrebare atât de naivă, răspunse Alexa care, în ciuda seriozităţii misiunii lor, simţi cum îi înfloreşte un zâmbet pe buze. -N u, slavă Domnului, nu am! răspunse Stiles, care, deşi veteran decorat al războaielor peninsulare, părea încă marcat de faptul că, în ciuda obiecţiilor sale, ea reuşise să-l convingă s-o însoţească prin bordelurile din Southwark. Altfel, continuă el, nu mi-aş fi oferit ajutorul lui Sebastian, oricât de mare ar fi fost pericolul pentru familia lui. Alexa îşi muşcă buza.
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