Showing posts with label Stephanie Laurens. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stephanie Laurens. Show all posts

Friday, April 8, 2022

The Truth About Love by Stephanie Laurens

 The Truth About Love by Stephanie Laurens - 383 pages


Gerrard Debbington, Vane Cynster's brother-in-law, is one of London's most eligible gentlemen. Uninterested in marriage, his driving passion is to paint the fabled gardens of Lord Tregonning's Hellebore Hall -- an opportunity that is now at hand...if Gerrard agrees to create an honest portrait of Tregonning's daughter as well.

Gerrard chafes at wasting his talents on some simpering miss, only to discover that Jacqueline Tregonning stirs him as no other. Certainly, she is beautiful, but it is her passionate nature that strikes sparks with Gerrard's own, igniting desire and sweeping them into each other's arms, convincing Gerrard that he has found his ideal soul mate -- the lady he must have as his wife.

But something is horribly wrong at Hellebore Hall. Evil and lies are reaching out to ensnare Jacqueline -- and Gerrard will have to move Heaven and Earth to protect the remarkable woman who, for him, personifies the truth about love...

Thursday, December 16, 2021

The Ideal Bride by Stephanie Laurens

 The Ideal Bride by Stephanie Laurens - 368 pages



Aristocratic, elegant, and effortlessly charming, Michael Anstruther-Wetherby is a man destined for power. With his close connections to the influential Cynster family, Michael’s future in Parliament appears assured, except that he lacks the single most important element of success: a wife.

Driven to seek a gently bred young lady, he discovers such a paragon. But there is an obstacle in his path: her beautiful, strong-minded young aunt, Caroline Sutcliffe.

A woman of style and status, Caro will not sacrifice her cherished niece to an unhappy marriage. However, Michael suddenly has his eye on Caro himself. But danger is stalking Caroline Sutcliffe. It will take great courage to protect her—and every ounce of Michael’s seductive charm to convince her that becoming his wife will bring her all that her heart desires…and more.

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

The Perfect Lover by Stephanie Laurens

 The Perfect Lover by Stephanie Laurens - 344 pages



Never let it be said that a Cynster male can't face up to the one unassailable truth: A successful marriage gives life its fullest meaning. To all of English society, Simon Frederick Cynster has a perfect life—one of enormous wealth and impeccable social status. His lean handsomeness turns the heads of naïve debutantes, while his sensual allure ensures he never lacks for more sophisticated partners for a night, or more, of pleasure. Yet despite all of this, Simon knows that there is something—or rather someone—missing in his life.

To achieve true contentment, Simon must find a lady accomplished enough to be his wife, someone who will spend her days as a member of one of England's most influential families ... and her nights pursuing duties of a more private—and personal—nature.

But Simon knows what to expect if he reveals his intention to choose a bride; nothing could be more tiresome than having every blushing miss on the marriage mart thrust upon him. So he discreetly begins his search at a house party at Glossup Hall . . . and is astonished that the lady who immediately captures his interest is Portia Ashford.

Simon has never considered Portia as a potential wife. He's known the raven-haired beauty since childhood; she's willfully independent and has always claimed to be uninterested in marriage. But an unexpectedly heated kiss abruptly alters the rules of their decade-long interaction. Soon they begin to long for the moments they can spend in each other's arms.

But all is not as it seems at Glossup Hall. As Simon and Portia begin to explore the depths of their mutual passion, a shocking murder is committed ... and it appears that the next victim will be Portia herself. And even more shocking than the fact that a murderer secretly walks among them is the realization that all of Simon's considerable strength and influence may not be enough to protect Portia—his once and always perfect lover . . .

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

On A Wild Night and On a Wicked Dawn - Stephaine Laurnes

 On A Wild Night and On A Wicked Dawn by Stephanie Laurens - 663 pages


On A Wild Night

Where are all the exciting men in London?

After spending years in the glittering ballrooms of the ton, Amanda Cynster is utterly bored by the current crop of colorless suitors. Determined to take matters into her own hands, one night she shockingly goes where no respectable lady ever should, but where many an intriguing gentleman might be found.

But titillating excitement quickly turns to panic when Amanda discovers she′s quite out of her depth. She looks around for help -- and is unexpectedly rescued by the Earl of Dexter. Lean, sensuous, and mysterious, he has delayed re-entering society, preferring instead a more interesting existence on its fringes.

He′s the epitome of the boldly passionate gentleman Amanda has been searching for, but although his very touch makes it clear he′s willing to educate her in the art of love, Amanda has to wonder if such a masterful, lionized rake can be sufficiently tamed into the ways of marriage.


On A Wicked Dawn

Amelia Cynster hears these words from handsome, enigmatic Lucien Ashford, 6th Viscount Calverton, and is stunned. It's near dawn and she's risked scandal by lying in wait for him just outside his London house. But he agrees to her outrageous marriage proposal - just prior to falling unconscious at her feet. Amelia is torn between astounded relief and indignant affront, then decides she doesn't care. She has always loved him - no other man will do for her - and she's tired of waiting.

Sometimes a young lady needs to take matters into her own hands.

But matters of the heart are never that simple. The first hitch in Amelia's plans comes when Luc refuses to agree to a hasty wedding, but insists on properly wooing her...in public and in private. Soon she longs for those moments away from the watchful gaze of the ton in which she can learn all about seduction from a master. But unknown to Amelia, Luc has a very good reason for wooing her.

Every wicked gentleman has his price.



 













Wednesday, June 23, 2021

All About Passion by Stephanie Laurens

All About Passion by Stephanie Laurens - 424 pages

 

"If one is not marrying for love, one may as well marry for something else. My future countess has to be sufficiently docile and endowed with at least passable grace of form, deportment and address."

Fate has made Gyles Rawlings a man determined to control his destiny. He has decided to wed a well-bred lady who will dutifully bear him sons, yet turn a blind eye while he takes his pleasure elsewhere. By all good accounts, Francesca will fit his bill. As for the "elsewhere," he's recently encountered a beautiful, brazen siren who will make a fine mistress, one with a fiery nature to match his own.

But at the altar, Gyles discovers his bride is the bold enchantress who has inspired his deepest fantasies. Finding passion and love in the same woman has long been a secret fear. But as his world is rocked on its axis, Gyles becomes obsessed with possessing the one thing he'd thought he would never want... his wife's heart.

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

All About Love by Stephanie Laurens

 All About Love by Stephanie Laurens - 407 pages



Alasdair Cynster, known to his intimates as Lucifer, decides to rusticate in the country before the matchmaking skills of London's mamas become firmly focused on him, the last unwed member of the Bar Cynster. But an escape to Devon leads him straight to his destiny in the irresistible form of Phyllida Tallent, a willful, independent beauty of means who brings all his masterful Cynster instincts rioting to the fore. Lucifer tries to deny the desire Phyllida evokes--acting on it will land him in parson's mousetrap, one place he's sworn never to go. But destiny intervenes, leaving him to face the greatest Cynster challenge--wooing a reluctant bride.

Phyllida has had a bevy of suitors--her charm and wit are well known throughout the countryside--but none of them has tempted her the way Lucifer does. His offer to teach her all about the ways of love is almost too tantalizing to resist. And although she's not yet completely surrendered, she knows only a fool stands against a Cynster...and Phyllida is no one's fool.

Monday, April 19, 2021

A Rogue's Proposal by Stephanie Laurens

 A Rogue's Proposal by Stephanie Laurens - 404 pages



Demon Cynster has seen love bring his brethren to their knees, and he's vowed that he will not share their fate...until he spies Felicity Parteger sneaking about his racing stable. Demon remembers Felicity as a mere chit of a girl, but now she stands before him - begging for his help - all lush curves, sparkling eyes...and so temptingly worthy of the love he's vowed never to surrender to any woman.

Felicity knew Demon was one of the ton's most eligible bachelors and a rogue of the worst sort, but he was the only one capable of getting her friend out of trouble. Her fascination with Demon had nothing to do with the power lurking just beneath his devil-may-care facade - or with the desire that flares when he takes her in his arms. Felicity knows Demon will never yield her the love she desperately seeks, but could a marriage of passion alone - even with a man like Demon - be enough?

Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Scandal's Bride by Stephanie Laurens

 Scandal's Bride by Stephanie Laurens - 404 pages

"He will father your children..."


When Catriona Hennessy, honorable Scottish Lady of the Vale, received this prediction, she was exceedingly aghast. How could she unite with a rake like Richard Cynster--a masterful man with a scandalous reputation? More shocking still was her guardian's will that decreed she and Richard be wed within a week! Though charmed by his commanding presence, and wooed by his heated kisses, she would not--could not--give up her independence.

So she formed a plan to get the heir she needed without taking wedding vows.Richard was just as stunned by the will's command. Marriage had not previously been on his agenda, but lately he'd been feeling rather...restless. Perhaps taming the lady was just the challenge he needed. But can he have the rights of the marriage bed without making any revealing promises of love?

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

A Rake's Vow by Stephanie Laurens

 A Rakes's Vow by Stephanie Laurens - 374 pages



He vowed he'd never marry: Vane Cynster always knew which way the wind was blowing, and it was headed in a marrying direction. The other Cynster men might not mind stepping up to the altar, but Vane never wanted to be shackled to any woman, no matter how comely. Bellamy Hall seemed like the perfect place to temporarily hide from London's husband hunters. But when he encountered irresistible Patience Debbington, Vane realized he'd met his match and soon he had more than seduction on his mind. She vowed no man would catch her: Patience wasn't about to succumb to Vane's sensuous propositions. Yes, his kisses left her dizzy but he was arrogant, presumptuous...and, despite his protests, bound to be unfaithful, just like every other man. Patience had promised herself that she'd never become vulnerable to a broken heart. But was this one vow that was meant to be broken?

Monday, March 15, 2021

Devil's Bride by Stephanie Laurens

 Devil's Bride by Stephanie Laurens - 388 pages



When Devil, the most infamous member of the Cynster family, is caught in a compromising position with plucky governess Honoria Wetherby, he astonishes the entire town by offering his hand in marriage. No one dreamed this scandalous rake would ever take a bride. And as society mamas swooned at the loss of England′s most eligible bachelor, Devil′s infamous Cynster cousins began to place wagers on the wedding date.

But Honoria wasn′t about to bend society′s demands and marry a man "just" because they′d been found together virtually unchaperoned. No, she craved adventure, and while solving the murder of a young Cynster cousin fit the bill for a while, she decided that once the crime was solved she′d go off to see the world. But the scalding heat of her unsated desire for Devil soon had Honoria craving a very different sort of excitement. Could her passion for Devil cause her to embrace the enchanting peril of a lifelong adventure of the heart?

Thursday, February 12, 2015

By Winter's Light by Stephanie Laurens




 By Winter's Light by Stephanie Laurens - 347 pages



 

By Winter's Light (Cynster, #21)It’s December 1837, and the young adults of the Cynster clan have succeeded in having the family Christmas celebration held at snow-bound Casphairn Manor, Richard and Catriona Cynster’s home. Led by Sebastian, Marquess of Earith, and by Lucilla, future Lady of the Vale, and her twin brother, Marcus, the upcoming generation has their own plans for the holiday season.

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

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

Back at the manor, Claire is increasingly drawn to Daniel and despite her misgivings, against the backdrop of the ongoing festivities their relationship deepens. Yet she remains torn—until catastrophe strikes, and by winter’s light, she learns that love—true love—is worth any risk, any price.

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

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

"Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue" by Stephanie Laurens

"Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue" by Stephanie Laurens - 427 pages

Determined to hunt down her very own hero, one who will sweep her off her feet and into wedded bliss, and desparing of finding him in London's staid ballrooms, Heather Cynster steps out of her safe world and boldly attends a racy soiree.  But her promising hunt is ruined by the supremely interfering Viscount Breckenridge, who whiskes her out of scandal and straight into danger, when a mysterious enemy seizes her, bundles her into a coach and conveys her out of London.  Now it is up to the nororious Breckenridge to prove himself the hero she has been searching for all along.

"The Reckless Bride" by Stephanie Laurens

"The Reckless Bride" by Stephanie Laurens - 449 pages

The Black Cobra is terrorizing the East India Company's convoys.  Five men that had served with the Cynster's in their calvary troop are sent to find information on who the Black Cobra is and bring proof so that he can be brought to justice.

He races to complete their mission against escalation odds, his task made more perilous when he loses his heart.  She's determined to defy convention and live a solitary life, until she tastes the reckless pleasure found only in his arms.  Drawn together by fate, united by fiery passion, they pursue their shared destiny, one they'll only live to see if they unmask the Black Cobra.

"The Brazen Bride" by Stephanie Laurens

"The Brazen Bride" by Stephanie Laurens - 405 pages

The Black Cobra is terrorizing the East India Company's convoys.  Five men that had served with the Cynster's in their calvary troop are sent to find information on who the Black Cobra is and bring proof so that he can be brought to justice.

Shipwrecked, wounded, he risks all to pursue his mission, only to discover a partner as daring and brazen as he.  Fiery, tempestuus, a queen in her own realm. she rescues a warrior, only to find her heart under siege. Bound by passion, linked by need, together they must brave the enemy's gauntlet to win all their hearts' desire.

"The Elusive Bride" by Stephanie Laurens

"The Elusive Bride" by Stephanie Laurnes - 436 pages                                                                                

The Black Cobra is terrorizing the East India Company's convoys.  Five men that had served with the Cynster's in their calvary troop are sent to find information on who the Black Cobra is and bring proof so that he can be brought to justice

He's focused on his mission, then sees a lady he never dreamed he'd see again, with an assassin on her heels. She secretly followed him, unaware her path is deadly, or that she'll join him to battle a treacherous foe. Through ever-present peril, through passion, desire and ecstasy, they race to reach England and their destiny.

"The Untamed Bride" by Stephanie Laurens

"The Untamed Bride" by Stephanie Laurens - 347 pages

The Black Cobra is terrorizing the East India Company's convoys.  Five men that had served with the Cynster's in their calvary troop are sent to find information on who the Black Cobra is and bring proof so that he can be brought to justice.

He is a man who has faced peril without flinching, determined to fight for king and county.  She is a bold, beautiful woman with a scandalous past, destined to become and untamed bride.  Together they must vanquish the ruthless enemy, while confronting the dangers of the heart.

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

"The Taste of Innocence" by Stephanie Laurens

"The Taste of Innocence" by Stephanie Laurens - 436 pages

Charles Morwellan, eighth Earl of Meredith, has seen many happy Cynster unions, but he also watched his father's obsessive love nearly destroy their family.  Yet he knows his duty, and so has chosen a bride.  Sarah Conningham is beautiful, intelligent, and knows the value of his offer.  Imagine his shock when she refuses to wed for anything less than intense, unbridled, unbounded love.  Now he is determined to win her.  In a tantalizing game of pleasure and persuasion, Charles courts Sarah with excruciating propriety during the day, but each night spirits her away into the moonlit gardens, where he tutors her in the art of passion.  Yet, after their wedding, his polite mask returns, leaving Sarah wondering which man she actually married:  the controlled aristocrat, or the lover whose tough leaves her grasping.  But then Sarah's life is threatened and Charles must discover just how much he is willing to surrender to protect the taste of innocence.

"What Price Love?" by Stephanie Laurens

"What Price Love?" by Stephanie Laurens - 485 pages

Dillon Caxton, protege of Demon Cynster, is disillusioned with love.  Blessed with wealth, status, and stunning good looks, he has no time for marriage-hungry misses.  As a guardian of the "Sport of Kings" he has a daring criminal scheme to thwart, one that threatens to wreak havoc on the thoroughbred racing world.  Enter ravishingly beautiful Lady Priscilla Dalloway.  She, too, has no time for romance, she has to rescue her horse-mad twin brother from the dangerous swindle in which he's become embroiled.  But the man holding the key to finding her twin is Dillon, who allows her to believe he is immune to her charms.  The lady is Dillon's only lead to the criminals, and Pris will do anything to save her twin, including seducing the said-to-be unseducible.  Linked in a journey riddled with danger and passion, they find themselves facing that terrifying questions: What price love?

"The Truth About Love" by Stephanie Laurens

"The Truth About Love" by Stephanie Laurens - 430 pages

Gerrard Debbington, Vane Cynster's brother-in-law, is one of London's most eligible gentlemen.  Uninterested in marriage, his driving passion is to paint the fabled gardens of Lord Tregonning's Hellbore Hall, and opportunity that is not at hand, if Gerrard agrees to create an honest portrait of Tregonning's daughter as well.  Gerrard chafes at wasting his talents on some simpering miss, only to discover that Jacqueline Tregonning stirs him as no other.  Certainly, she is beautiful, but it is her passionate natures that strikes sparks with Gerrard's own, igniting desire and sweeping them into each other's arms, convincing Gerrard that he has found his ideal soul mate, the lady he must have as his wife.  But something is horribly wrong at Hellbore Hall.  Evil and lies are reaching out to ensnare Jacqueline, and Gerrard will have to move Heaven and Earth to protect the remarkable woman who, for him, personifies the truth about love.

"The Ideal Bride" by Stephanie Laurens

"The Ideal Bride" by Stephanie Laurens - 418 pages

Aristocratic, elegant, and effortless charming, Michael Anstruther-Wetherby is a man destined for power.  With his close connections to the influential Cynster family, Michael's future in Parliament appears assured, except that he lacks the single most important element of success: a wife.  Driven to seek a gently bred young lady, he discovers such a paragon.  But there is an obstacle in his path: her beautiful strong-minded young aunt, Carolyn Sutcliffe.  A woman of style and status, Caro will not sacrifice her cherished niece to an unhappy marriage.  However, Michael suddenly has his eye on Caro herself.  But danger is stalking Caroline Sutcliffe.  It will take great courage to protect her - and every ounce of Michael's seductive charm to convince her that becoming his bride will bring her all her heart desires and more.