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The Lyon, The Liar and The Scandalous Wardrobe
Being held in his arms had felt right. Perhaps for the first time in her life, she had felt she was where she belonged.Miss Poppy Granville has a plan to save the fortune left to her and her sister by their grandfather. Perhaps it isn’t a very good plan. It’s certainly not a foolproof one. But with a bit of misdirection, a few lies, bending some rules while breaking others, along with the cooperation of a well connected ally—none other than the Black Widow of White Hall—it just might work. All it will take is for one of them, more than likely Marigold as she was more content to be managed rather than to manage, to land themselves a husband. In eight days. Julien knows that his cousin is facing an uphill battle in finding himself a wife—despite all that Phillip has to recommend him, the man’s own obsession with hunting and shooting might derail his plan and the considerable efforts of Mrs. Dove-Lyon. But Julien hadn’t expected that the prospective bride, sent by Bessie for Phillip, would be accompanied by the one woman in the world he was hopeless to resist. A woman he knows, at very first glance, will be his.But the course of true love and matchmaking will never run smooth, and the Cressington house party is no exception. With plots, schemes, jealousy and a scandalous wardrobe encounter all converging into one point of utter chaos, both Julien and Poppy discover that it doesn’t really matter what brought them together.It only matters that they are together… and both of them mean to stay that way.Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2023
About the author
Chasity Bowlin
112 books501 followersUSA Today Best Selling author and Winner of the 2019 Romance Through the Ages Award for Georgian/Regency Romance, Chasity Bowlin is the author multiple bestselling historical romance novels, both independently and with Dragonblade Publishing. She lives in central Kentucky with her husband and their menagerie of animals. She loves writing, loves traveling and enjoys incorporating tidbits of her actual vacations into her books. She is an avid Anglophile, loving all things British, but specifically all things Regency.
Growing up in Tennessee, spending as much time as possible with her doting grandparents, soap operas were a part of her daily existence, followed by back to back episodes of Scooby Doo. Her path to becoming a romance novelist was set when, rather than simply have her Barbie dolls cruise around in a pink convertible, they time traveled, hosted lavish dinner parties and one even had an evil twin locked in the attic.
Growing up in Tennessee, spending as much time as possible with her doting grandparents, soap operas were a part of her daily existence, followed by back to back episodes of Scooby Doo. Her path to becoming a romance novelist was set when, rather than simply have her Barbie dolls cruise around in a pink convertible, they time traveled, hosted lavish dinner parties and one even had an evil twin locked in the attic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 16, 2023
Miss Poppy Granville has a plan. Ask for help from the Black Widow of Whitehall to find a husband for her sister Marigold. Getting her away from their father's house, his hateful wife and her two daughters is imperative. Mrs. Dove-Lyon has her own plan and instigates it with all the help she needs to make it happen. At a house party hosted by Viscount Cressington's mother. Poppy has high hopes of Marigold being successful in a proposal, but success is not guaranteed. Events unfold with manipulation and deceit and Poppy finds herself in a situation she never expected. Bowlin always knows how to turn up the heat. Another great read in the Lyon series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 15, 2023
Oh so good
I can't get enough of Chasity's books.. The angst, the steam, the love and the happily ever after is just phenomenal in all of her books.
I can't wait to read the next book from her!
I can't get enough of Chasity's books.. The angst, the steam, the love and the happily ever after is just phenomenal in all of her books.
I can't wait to read the next book from her!
December 23, 2023
Whizzed through reading this story. Enjoyed it. Loved the main characters and great storyline.
5☆
5☆
November 17, 2023
Love this author and an easy 5! But this is hilarious and wisdom comes from some unexpected characters! Solutions to Poppy and Marigold vicious Stepmother can only be found in the Lyon den!
Viscount Julien Cressington is wealthy and single and has avoided marriage so long his mother Louisa had resorted to drastic measures!
She has redecorated his estate with ghastly gilt and gold in the most atrocious colors and decor!
Poppy wrote to Bessie to make sure Marigold wed so that their stepmother would not further divide their dowries!
A suitable chaperone was introduced and girls received coveted invitations to the Cressington home called Crossmore!
Well shenanigans definitely are the order of the day and consistently involve a wardrobe!
There is jealousy afoot as a vicious debutant is determined to have Julien at any cost!
There is never a dull moment if you like surprises, kidnapping and hiding in a wardrobe then this definitely for you! Bravo hang on for 1 possibly 2 book boyfriends!?
Viscount Julien Cressington is wealthy and single and has avoided marriage so long his mother Louisa had resorted to drastic measures!
She has redecorated his estate with ghastly gilt and gold in the most atrocious colors and decor!
Poppy wrote to Bessie to make sure Marigold wed so that their stepmother would not further divide their dowries!
A suitable chaperone was introduced and girls received coveted invitations to the Cressington home called Crossmore!
Well shenanigans definitely are the order of the day and consistently involve a wardrobe!
There is jealousy afoot as a vicious debutant is determined to have Julien at any cost!
There is never a dull moment if you like surprises, kidnapping and hiding in a wardrobe then this definitely for you! Bravo hang on for 1 possibly 2 book boyfriends!?
November 15, 2023
This is my 44th book by Chasity Bowlin and I have been reading her since 2017. I consider her one of my favorite authors. Her books are super steamy but there is a bit. Either way, I still enjoy them because I feel she is a really good writer.
I really enjoyed reading Poppy and Julien’s story. It was a quick read but I felt Chasity got good depth in both characters and the story. Overall a cute read.
I really enjoyed reading Poppy and Julien’s story. It was a quick read but I felt Chasity got good depth in both characters and the story. Overall a cute read.
November 23, 2023
Disclaimer: I was given an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review, thank you Dragonblade Publishing for this opportunity.
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Well, this one was a bit of a let down.
Two sisters in need of a speedy marriage (not for any salacious reason) go to the number one matchmaker to get a groom for one of them, of course everything turns out quite different from what they expected.
Don't get me wrong, it has all the elements of a fun historical romance but everything was so painfully predictable that it detracted form the overall enjoyment.
If you are dipping your toes into historical romance, this one will delight you but if you are deep into the genre I'm afraid this one is very forgettable.
---
Well, this one was a bit of a let down.
Two sisters in need of a speedy marriage (not for any salacious reason) go to the number one matchmaker to get a groom for one of them, of course everything turns out quite different from what they expected.
Don't get me wrong, it has all the elements of a fun historical romance but everything was so painfully predictable that it detracted form the overall enjoyment.
If you are dipping your toes into historical romance, this one will delight you but if you are deep into the genre I'm afraid this one is very forgettable.
November 22, 2023
Good Cinderella-like book. Poppy and her older sister, Marigold, have had a rough time ever since her father remarried - a woman with two daughters of her own. Portia constantly puts her stepdaughters down and has convinced their father to split their dowries with her daughters. Poppy and Marigold desperately need husbands to get them out from under Portia's thumb. So, Poppy writes a letter to her mother's childhood friend, Mrs. Dove-Lyons, asking for her help. Within days, Mrs. Dove-Lyons has secured an invitation to a house party, a chaperone, and the name of a likely suitor for Marigold. Poppy is content to wait for Marigold to marry before looking for a husband.
Julien isn't looking forward to his mother's house party. She has been badgering him for years to find a wife and has resorted to decorative blackmail to achieve her goal (Julien's descriptions of his mother's efforts are hilarious). On the other hand, his cousin Phillip is ready to find a bride, but his social awkwardness makes his search an uphill battle. I loved the men's first sight of Poppy and Marigold. Phillip is nervous, and Julien feels like he's been hit by a bolt of lightning.
I ached for Marigold, whose high hopes are blasted by Phillip's apparent inability to talk about anything except shooting and hunting. She's ready to give up in despair but has a minor obstacle to making a clean escape. She wrote a letter to her prospective intended, to be delivered by Mrs. Dove-Lyons, that could easily be misconstrued if it falls into the wrong hands. Poppy, being the take-action woman she is, plots a way to retrieve the letter. Unfortunately, it goes sadly awry in a scene that had me laughing out loud.
Julien decides that no one but Poppy will do for him and is determined to court her immediately. He runs into a problem when Poppy doesn't believe he is serious. She is a young woman with generous curves whose self-confidence has been beaten down by her stepmother's jibes. She does not think a viscount like Julien would have any serious interest in her. That's not to say he hasn't drawn her attention. His good looks and charm stir feelings in her that she's never felt before. When her attempt to retrieve Marigold's letter puts her in a compromising position with Julien, it takes some effort for Julien to convince her of their need to marry.
But Julien's interest in Poppy has made two enemies that will do anything to get their way. A nasty plot puts Poppy in danger, and only Julien's quick action can save the day. I was on the edge of my seat as I watched the situation unfold, hoping Julien would be in time. The ending was terrific, and I was happy to see how things turned out for Julien and Poppy.
I also enjoyed the romance between Marigold and Phillip. He comes across as dull-witted at the beginning of the book, but as the story progresses, it appears there is more to him than meets the eye. His nervousness around Marigold exacerbates his awkwardness, and it takes a bit of advice from Julien to point him in the right direction. Marigold quickly writes him off, but as the days pass, her attitude changes. She, too, seemed somewhat air-headed initially, but a previously undemonstrated practicality came to the fore as she dealt with Phillip. I loved the twist to their romance at the end.
#netgallley
Julien isn't looking forward to his mother's house party. She has been badgering him for years to find a wife and has resorted to decorative blackmail to achieve her goal (Julien's descriptions of his mother's efforts are hilarious). On the other hand, his cousin Phillip is ready to find a bride, but his social awkwardness makes his search an uphill battle. I loved the men's first sight of Poppy and Marigold. Phillip is nervous, and Julien feels like he's been hit by a bolt of lightning.
I ached for Marigold, whose high hopes are blasted by Phillip's apparent inability to talk about anything except shooting and hunting. She's ready to give up in despair but has a minor obstacle to making a clean escape. She wrote a letter to her prospective intended, to be delivered by Mrs. Dove-Lyons, that could easily be misconstrued if it falls into the wrong hands. Poppy, being the take-action woman she is, plots a way to retrieve the letter. Unfortunately, it goes sadly awry in a scene that had me laughing out loud.
Julien decides that no one but Poppy will do for him and is determined to court her immediately. He runs into a problem when Poppy doesn't believe he is serious. She is a young woman with generous curves whose self-confidence has been beaten down by her stepmother's jibes. She does not think a viscount like Julien would have any serious interest in her. That's not to say he hasn't drawn her attention. His good looks and charm stir feelings in her that she's never felt before. When her attempt to retrieve Marigold's letter puts her in a compromising position with Julien, it takes some effort for Julien to convince her of their need to marry.
But Julien's interest in Poppy has made two enemies that will do anything to get their way. A nasty plot puts Poppy in danger, and only Julien's quick action can save the day. I was on the edge of my seat as I watched the situation unfold, hoping Julien would be in time. The ending was terrific, and I was happy to see how things turned out for Julien and Poppy.
I also enjoyed the romance between Marigold and Phillip. He comes across as dull-witted at the beginning of the book, but as the story progresses, it appears there is more to him than meets the eye. His nervousness around Marigold exacerbates his awkwardness, and it takes a bit of advice from Julien to point him in the right direction. Marigold quickly writes him off, but as the days pass, her attitude changes. She, too, seemed somewhat air-headed initially, but a previously undemonstrated practicality came to the fore as she dealt with Phillip. I loved the twist to their romance at the end.
#netgallley
November 22, 2023
The Lyon, The Liar, and the Scandalous Wardrobe by Chasity Bowlin is the story of two sisters who have contacted Mrs. Dove-Lyon for assistance. She has decided to be overt about one romance, and covert about the other. Poppy and Marigold didn’t like their stepmother. More to the point, she didn’t like them and treated them thusly every day, especially Poppy. They had been forced to share a room so their stepsisters could each have one of their own. She constantly taunted Poppy about her weight and her food choices. Poppy fought back while Marigold sat in silence. It was Poppy who contacted their mother’s old friend for assistance. If she could see Marigold in a good marriage, then she could trade on her sister’s good fortune to make a marriage of her own. They arrived at Crossmore House with Mrs. Lerner. The moment Julien, Viscount Cressington saw Poppy he knew she was his future. She was not the sister for whom Mrs. Dove-Lyon had arranged a match. That was Marigold and the match was to be made with his cousin, Lord Phillip Stanhope, his cousin. His very boring cousin. Sadly Marigold felt the same way about Phillip: he was boring. She instantly regretted the letter she had had Mrs. Dove-Lyon arrange to have delivered to him. Afraid of her own ruin, she implored Poppy to fix things, as always. This let to Poppy’s ruin, totally undeserved and coincidental.
Julien had been dodging husband-hunting mamas and daughters for years. He was good at avoiding their machinations and their attempts to put him in a scandalous position where he would have to choice but to marry. Now that he was doing the pursuing he found it to be more difficult than he had assumed. Plus, there were outside factors, not the least of which was Phillip. Julien was a good man, and handsome. Poppy was clever, opinionated, and determined to do her best for her sister and keep them both out of their stepmother’s clutches. It proved to be difficult with another woman chasing the viscount’s title and another man chasing Poppy’s money, what was left of it. It led to an unwholesome partnership and danger for all. It was a fun read, well-plotted with a variety of interesting characters.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Lyon, The Liar, and the Scandalous Wardrobe by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #ChasityBowlin #The LyonTheLiarAndTheScandalousWardrobe
Julien had been dodging husband-hunting mamas and daughters for years. He was good at avoiding their machinations and their attempts to put him in a scandalous position where he would have to choice but to marry. Now that he was doing the pursuing he found it to be more difficult than he had assumed. Plus, there were outside factors, not the least of which was Phillip. Julien was a good man, and handsome. Poppy was clever, opinionated, and determined to do her best for her sister and keep them both out of their stepmother’s clutches. It proved to be difficult with another woman chasing the viscount’s title and another man chasing Poppy’s money, what was left of it. It led to an unwholesome partnership and danger for all. It was a fun read, well-plotted with a variety of interesting characters.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Lyon, The Liar, and the Scandalous Wardrobe by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #ChasityBowlin #The LyonTheLiarAndTheScandalousWardrobe
November 18, 2023
The Lyon, the Liar, and the Scandalous Wardrobe is the 49th book in the Lyon's Den series. It is 201 pages which makes for a wonderful afternoon read.
Miss Poppy Granville reaches out to Mrs. Dove-Lyon, her mother's former friend, by writing a letter concerning her and her sister's current circumstances. Their father has recently married a woman with two daughters. Their new stepmother is ruling the roost and treating them horribly but mostly Poppy. They are in desperate need of husbands but Poppy wants to secure a marriage for her sister first and if she is lucky enough one for her after.
Mrs. Dove-Lyon is sad to hear her former friend has died. She remembers when she had married Poppy's father and how he was a controlling man and they soon parted as friends. Determined to do right for her friend's daughters, she gets to work on her own plan in order to insure everything works in their favor.
A house party is being hosted by Viscount Cressington's mother. Poppy has high hopes of Marigold being successful in finding a husband in order to secure her future. As the party progresses nicely, Poppy finds she has an enemy that is willing to fight for what she begins to see as a way out of the mess created by her cruel stepmother. Poppy will find herself in danger and all their hopes and dreams for the future are at risk.
I love the Lyon's Den series. I am constantly amazed at the talent of all the different author's ability to write stories that blend their writing style and the Lyon's Den. This one focuses on two daughters with very different body shapes and very different personalities. I really enjoyed the fact that they weren't perfect and didn't necessarily focus on having a grand season in London. This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
Miss Poppy Granville reaches out to Mrs. Dove-Lyon, her mother's former friend, by writing a letter concerning her and her sister's current circumstances. Their father has recently married a woman with two daughters. Their new stepmother is ruling the roost and treating them horribly but mostly Poppy. They are in desperate need of husbands but Poppy wants to secure a marriage for her sister first and if she is lucky enough one for her after.
Mrs. Dove-Lyon is sad to hear her former friend has died. She remembers when she had married Poppy's father and how he was a controlling man and they soon parted as friends. Determined to do right for her friend's daughters, she gets to work on her own plan in order to insure everything works in their favor.
A house party is being hosted by Viscount Cressington's mother. Poppy has high hopes of Marigold being successful in finding a husband in order to secure her future. As the party progresses nicely, Poppy finds she has an enemy that is willing to fight for what she begins to see as a way out of the mess created by her cruel stepmother. Poppy will find herself in danger and all their hopes and dreams for the future are at risk.
I love the Lyon's Den series. I am constantly amazed at the talent of all the different author's ability to write stories that blend their writing style and the Lyon's Den. This one focuses on two daughters with very different body shapes and very different personalities. I really enjoyed the fact that they weren't perfect and didn't necessarily focus on having a grand season in London. This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
November 27, 2023
4.5 STARS
The story for me started out with a bang. Our h doesn't take the nasty attitude of her stepmother and gives the insults right back at this mean women. How many times do you read a story of the mean stepmother and the stepdaughter just takes it? Nope, not in this story with these two - loved that.
Then you get the H who doesn't suffer fools. A young women wants him and does everything to be in his orbit. The H will not have anything to do with her even when she invites herself. Oh, another good banter where he comes right out and tells her no!
Like others, I wish the story of the cousin and sister was more developed. They both seemed to have a personality change as the book progressed - in a good way.
Two jealous people trying to break up the H/h. I wish we knew more of what happened to them. The female just dropped out of the story. The man, I'm not 100% sure what the end result was for him. This needed to be tidied up more. I didn't feel these omits deserved a full star deduction, because so much more of the story made me happy. I did like how the father put his wife in her place near the end.
Mrs. Dove-Lyon has a part in it and comes at it differently than her usual style and I liked it. These are all standalone stories within the Lyon's Den.
Some suspense, intrigue, some parts predictable but entertaining, HEA, lovemaking within marriage, heat level 3 out of 5, some romance, no cheating and no cliffhanger.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. (ljb)
The story for me started out with a bang. Our h doesn't take the nasty attitude of her stepmother and gives the insults right back at this mean women. How many times do you read a story of the mean stepmother and the stepdaughter just takes it? Nope, not in this story with these two - loved that.
Then you get the H who doesn't suffer fools. A young women wants him and does everything to be in his orbit. The H will not have anything to do with her even when she invites herself. Oh, another good banter where he comes right out and tells her no!
Like others, I wish the story of the cousin and sister was more developed. They both seemed to have a personality change as the book progressed - in a good way.
Two jealous people trying to break up the H/h. I wish we knew more of what happened to them. The female just dropped out of the story. The man, I'm not 100% sure what the end result was for him. This needed to be tidied up more. I didn't feel these omits deserved a full star deduction, because so much more of the story made me happy. I did like how the father put his wife in her place near the end.
Mrs. Dove-Lyon has a part in it and comes at it differently than her usual style and I liked it. These are all standalone stories within the Lyon's Den.
Some suspense, intrigue, some parts predictable but entertaining, HEA, lovemaking within marriage, heat level 3 out of 5, some romance, no cheating and no cliffhanger.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. (ljb)
November 12, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I don't know who wrote the synopsis for this book but they were way off. Like, not even close. That becomes apparent pretty much right away so I had to reset in my mind what type of story I was expecting. I usually love Chasity Bowlin's books, but I found I had some trouble getting into this one. A big part of that was Marigold. I felt like the author wasn't 100% sure what kind of character she wanted her to be - at first she's the quiet/more timid sister, then she's a vapid airhead, and then she ends up being quite astute. I liked the final version of her quite a lot and found myself wishing we had gotten more of the romance between her and Phillip - who was another character who seemed to change personalities throughout the book - he's a clueless buffoon, then a bore, and then turns out to be pretty level headed. Poppy and Julien's romance is pretty basic - Miss Pelfrey was needed really for nothing more than to add an obstacle for the two of them to overcome. I will admit that one of my favorite parts was when she realized her plot that involved Goins had failed so spectacularly. I would have been find had her whole vendetta ended there, the abduction was a bit much. Although Mrs. Dove-Lyon plays a part in all of this, her connection to the story is a little less interesting than in some of the earlier books in the series.
I don't know who wrote the synopsis for this book but they were way off. Like, not even close. That becomes apparent pretty much right away so I had to reset in my mind what type of story I was expecting. I usually love Chasity Bowlin's books, but I found I had some trouble getting into this one. A big part of that was Marigold. I felt like the author wasn't 100% sure what kind of character she wanted her to be - at first she's the quiet/more timid sister, then she's a vapid airhead, and then she ends up being quite astute. I liked the final version of her quite a lot and found myself wishing we had gotten more of the romance between her and Phillip - who was another character who seemed to change personalities throughout the book - he's a clueless buffoon, then a bore, and then turns out to be pretty level headed. Poppy and Julien's romance is pretty basic - Miss Pelfrey was needed really for nothing more than to add an obstacle for the two of them to overcome. I will admit that one of my favorite parts was when she realized her plot that involved Goins had failed so spectacularly. I would have been find had her whole vendetta ended there, the abduction was a bit much. Although Mrs. Dove-Lyon plays a part in all of this, her connection to the story is a little less interesting than in some of the earlier books in the series.
December 19, 2023
Poppy needs to save the family fortunes left to her and her sister by their grandfather and before their stepmother and father have a chance to further divide their dowries. They both need to marry, but she is focused first on her sister Marigold finding a match, and seeks the help of her mother's old friend, Mrs. Dove-Lyon. The Black Widow of White Hall, of course has her own plans, which she sets in motion and she secures an invitation to a house party and the name of a likely suitor for Marigold. Julien isn't ready to find a bride, but his cousin Philip is. Philip is a little socially awkward, which makes his search a little difficult. Julien isn't looking forward to his mother's house party. She is constantly on his case to marry, but he is willing to help his cousin find a bride. When Poppy and her sister arrive at the house party, Julien knows she is the one for him, but she is not convinced he is serious. Then Poppy finds herself the focus of a jealous debutante, determined to have Julien for herself.
Never a dull moment with the Lyon's Den stories! I enjoyed this latest addition and reading Poppy and Julien's story. Another entertaining addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Never a dull moment with the Lyon's Den stories! I enjoyed this latest addition and reading Poppy and Julien's story. Another entertaining addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
November 13, 2023
There was nothing wrong with this book, maybe my expectations were too high. I love Chasity Bowlin and I also love the Lyons Club series. This story was entertaining, but the romance of Poppy and Julien felt flat. Julien's mother, an old friend of Mrs. Dove-Lyons, desperately wished for her son to marry. Poppy and her sister Marigold needed to marry because their stepmother Portia had made their lives unbearable. They essentially ran away from home in order to attend the house party where they hoped to make a match. Conveniently, Julien and his cousin Phillip were both in residence.
Poppy, the smart younger sister, was a bit chubby. Julien was relatively boring. On the other hand, Phillip was a real character. He was a handsome sportsman, but he was completely inept in every other way. He was amusing and I would have loved to have seen more of him and Marigold.
There were also some jealous people at the party who were doing a poor job of keeping Julien and Poppy apart. The evil Portia, who was quite entertaining. might have had greater success.
To sum up, there was lots of good stuff in this book, but the romance didn't stand out for me. I received a free ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest review.
Poppy, the smart younger sister, was a bit chubby. Julien was relatively boring. On the other hand, Phillip was a real character. He was a handsome sportsman, but he was completely inept in every other way. He was amusing and I would have loved to have seen more of him and Marigold.
There were also some jealous people at the party who were doing a poor job of keeping Julien and Poppy apart. The evil Portia, who was quite entertaining. might have had greater success.
To sum up, there was lots of good stuff in this book, but the romance didn't stand out for me. I received a free ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest review.
November 14, 2023
Marigold & Poppy Granvilles’ lives have been hard since their father married Portia, they devise a plan, well Poppy does, they ask help from Mrs Dove- Lyon, who was a friend of their mothers. They go to a house party where Poppy hopes Marigold will marry the man Bessie has picked for her. Julien Viscount Cressington knows that his cousin Philip is facing an uphill battle in finding himself a wife, the man’s obsession with hunting and shooting might derail his plan and the considerable efforts of Mrs. Dove-Lyon. But Julien hadn’t expected that the prospective bride, sent by Bessie for Phillip, would be accompanied by the one woman in the world he was hopeless to resist. A woman he knows, at very first glance, will be his.
Another well written book in the connected world, I loved both Poppy & Julien & loved their journey to a HEA which included a liar, a wardrobe, snoring & a kidnap. I also liked secondary romance of Philip & Marigold, both of these characters would have been great actors with the acts they both put on! A fun entertaining romance, which I read in a sitting
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Another well written book in the connected world, I loved both Poppy & Julien & loved their journey to a HEA which included a liar, a wardrobe, snoring & a kidnap. I also liked secondary romance of Philip & Marigold, both of these characters would have been great actors with the acts they both put on! A fun entertaining romance, which I read in a sitting
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 16, 2023
I've see mixed reviews on this, and I can't agree with the negatives. I think what a few see as inconsistency in storyline is in truth the characters coming into their own. Allowed to be true to themselves at the house party away from the controlling figures in their lives to finally be who they want to be, should be. Or in Phillip's case, actually interested in the subject matter.
i like Chasity Bowlin's writing, especially her contributions to the Lyon's Den series. Her writing is so descriptive that you know what these characters look like, and how they feel in the throes of passion. We saw a different side of Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon, and I hope we see more glimpses into her past in future books. She's not always all business, even if she is a great matchmaker and gaming hell owner.
Poppy and Julian are so good together. He falls in love at first sight, but she's been so bullied by her step-mother that she feels unworthy. How can the HOT viscount want the fat-sister, read on and get the answer for yourself. . It's a wonderful love story that leaves you feeling giddy, because he does love her, and she believes in him.
Thank you NETGALLEY for the ARC.
i like Chasity Bowlin's writing, especially her contributions to the Lyon's Den series. Her writing is so descriptive that you know what these characters look like, and how they feel in the throes of passion. We saw a different side of Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon, and I hope we see more glimpses into her past in future books. She's not always all business, even if she is a great matchmaker and gaming hell owner.
Poppy and Julian are so good together. He falls in love at first sight, but she's been so bullied by her step-mother that she feels unworthy. How can the HOT viscount want the fat-sister, read on and get the answer for yourself. . It's a wonderful love story that leaves you feeling giddy, because he does love her, and she believes in him.
Thank you NETGALLEY for the ARC.
November 20, 2023
This is a short and funny slow burn romance.
Miss Poppy Granville has a plan to save the fortune left to her and her sister by their grandfather and with the cooperation of a well-connected ally—none other than the Black Widow of White Hall—it just might work. All it will take is for one of them to land themselves a husband. In eight days.
Julien knows that his cousin is facing an uphill battle in finding himself a wife—despite all that Phillip has to recommend him, the man’s own obsession with hunting and shooting might derail his plan and the considerable efforts of Mrs. Dove-Lyon. But Julien hadn’t expected that the prospective bride, sent by Bessie for Phillip, would be accompanied by the one woman in the world he was hopeless to resist. A woman he knows, at very first glance, will be his.
This love story is easy to read and engaging. I enjoyed all the misunderstandings and the plots. There’s a bit of action, mean second characters, two aloof partners in crime and a nice cute romance with a bit of fire. It’s always a pleasure to read one of Chasity Bowlin’s books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Miss Poppy Granville has a plan to save the fortune left to her and her sister by their grandfather and with the cooperation of a well-connected ally—none other than the Black Widow of White Hall—it just might work. All it will take is for one of them to land themselves a husband. In eight days.
Julien knows that his cousin is facing an uphill battle in finding himself a wife—despite all that Phillip has to recommend him, the man’s own obsession with hunting and shooting might derail his plan and the considerable efforts of Mrs. Dove-Lyon. But Julien hadn’t expected that the prospective bride, sent by Bessie for Phillip, would be accompanied by the one woman in the world he was hopeless to resist. A woman he knows, at very first glance, will be his.
This love story is easy to read and engaging. I enjoyed all the misunderstandings and the plots. There’s a bit of action, mean second characters, two aloof partners in crime and a nice cute romance with a bit of fire. It’s always a pleasure to read one of Chasity Bowlin’s books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 23, 2023
The novels that make up the Lyon's Den series never fail to entertain the reader. I found this Cinderella story both humourous and romantic as Poppy and her sister Marigold decide that they will not be subjected further to their stepmother's machinations. Approaching their late mother's old friend, the notorious Bessie Dove-Lyon proves to be their saving grace. However, the Black Widow has even more interest in the unmarried state of Viscount Cressington and she knows just the person to dangle in front of him. Poppy and Marigold make their way to the house party at Cressington House, never realizing the complications that are about to come their way. Although Julius is determined to thwart his mother's plans for him, when he sees Poppy his resolve to remain unmarried is instantly dissolved. Other guests at the house party prove to be a problem, but fortunately, Mrs Dove-Lyon proves that she is indeed a true friend. I received a copy of this entertaining and witty romance as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
November 13, 2023
Two sisters looking to escape the issues at home adventure out and attend a house party. Both need husbands, Phillip and Julien seem to be the perfect fix. Overall all this is a sweet story about four people trying to obtain a hea. I do have to say that I'm a bit disappointed in a few areas which is why the rating is not higher. It took much to long to get into the story which for me is an indication of repetitiveness or excessive details. I love the stories with alot of interaction and Poppy/Julien just didn't have this. Of the two antagonist, one seemed to be forgotten towards the end leaving the reader without closure. So much time was spent on Phillip's poor social skills yet his conversation was extremely rushed. And finally, Marigold's personality just seemed uncomfortable and non realistic.
Please keep in mind that this is only my opinion and I would still recommend reading this story as it may be just the right fit for you.
Please keep in mind that this is only my opinion and I would still recommend reading this story as it may be just the right fit for you.
January 11, 2024
Poppy and Marigold Granville are in trouble. Their father remarried and their stepmother has forced him to split their dowries with her daughters. To stop that madness, Poppy seeks Mrs. Dove-Lyon's help. One of them needs to get married in 8 days.
Julien Cross, Viscount Cressington, is being pushed to get married by his mother. Until he doesn't do so, she will decor his houses as she wishes. She has prepared a party in order to find a wife for his cousin, Baron Stapleton. Does she knows the Baron has already procured Mrs. Dove-Lyon services? Probably. Does he knows? Absolutely, not. When Stapleton talks about his dealings with the matchmaker all the alarms goes on. He must know everything about this Miss Grandville that she has procured for him. The problem? There are 2 Miss Grandville. Which one of them is in trouble?
As soon as Julien sees Miss Poppy Grandville, nothing else matters. She has to be his. Read this book if you want to know how this will happen.
Julien Cross, Viscount Cressington, is being pushed to get married by his mother. Until he doesn't do so, she will decor his houses as she wishes. She has prepared a party in order to find a wife for his cousin, Baron Stapleton. Does she knows the Baron has already procured Mrs. Dove-Lyon services? Probably. Does he knows? Absolutely, not. When Stapleton talks about his dealings with the matchmaker all the alarms goes on. He must know everything about this Miss Grandville that she has procured for him. The problem? There are 2 Miss Grandville. Which one of them is in trouble?
As soon as Julien sees Miss Poppy Grandville, nothing else matters. She has to be his. Read this book if you want to know how this will happen.
November 19, 2023
I enjoyed this story about sisters contacting their mother's friend, Bessie Dove-Lyon to help find a match for Marigold, the oldest sister. Poppy, the younger sister, wrote the letter to Bessie. The girls were wanting to escape the home of their father and their nasty step-mother. Bessie arranges for the girls to attend a house party hosted by Viscount Cressington's mother. Poppy really hopes Marigold will find a succesful match in the week they have. Their father believes they are visiting their aunt.
The story was well-written with great characters. Poppy and Julien had great chemistry. Portia was quite the self-centered, jealous, scheming individual.
I love all the Lyon's Den stories and eagerly look forward to the next book that comes out.
I received an ARC from Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley.
The story was well-written with great characters. Poppy and Julien had great chemistry. Portia was quite the self-centered, jealous, scheming individual.
I love all the Lyon's Den stories and eagerly look forward to the next book that comes out.
I received an ARC from Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley.
March 27, 2024
Mrs. Dove-Lyon at her best!
Mrs. Dove-Lyon is much more present in this story than in previous tales. She has taken on a more matronly role this time. Poppy is a strong woman despite her step-mother putting her down constantly. Her goal is to have her sister, Marigold, wed before their parents realize they are not at a relative’s home. They are at a house party with the handsome Julian and his awkward cousin, Phillip. Marigold at first despises Phillip, but she teaches him to talk about things other than hunting. Poppy is too wound-up about getting the diminutive Marigold married to pay attention to the viscount, Julian, who is very interested in her. There is hilarity throughout this tale. Two jealous houseguests cause a lot of trouble, but not to worry, all is well in the Lyon Connected World.
Mrs. Dove-Lyon is much more present in this story than in previous tales. She has taken on a more matronly role this time. Poppy is a strong woman despite her step-mother putting her down constantly. Her goal is to have her sister, Marigold, wed before their parents realize they are not at a relative’s home. They are at a house party with the handsome Julian and his awkward cousin, Phillip. Marigold at first despises Phillip, but she teaches him to talk about things other than hunting. Poppy is too wound-up about getting the diminutive Marigold married to pay attention to the viscount, Julian, who is very interested in her. There is hilarity throughout this tale. Two jealous houseguests cause a lot of trouble, but not to worry, all is well in the Lyon Connected World.
November 9, 2023
Poppy Granville is plotting for a way to find a husband for her sister. They both need to leave their father's home before the new stepmother destroys all their future prospects. She's heard of a Lady who can help.
Julienne Cross, Viscount of Cressington has made his mother promise that she will not try to push a bride on him at the house party. It's his cousin that wants to marry soon.
This historical romance is part of a series that is centered around our Black Widow and her establishment. Each one is a totally separate story, by lots of different authors. This one is very amusing because of the characters. It's very easy to put yourself in their shoes. We all know people like them. I thoroughly enjoyed every page.
Great fun.
Julienne Cross, Viscount of Cressington has made his mother promise that she will not try to push a bride on him at the house party. It's his cousin that wants to marry soon.
This historical romance is part of a series that is centered around our Black Widow and her establishment. Each one is a totally separate story, by lots of different authors. This one is very amusing because of the characters. It's very easy to put yourself in their shoes. We all know people like them. I thoroughly enjoyed every page.
Great fun.
November 23, 2023
Wow, what a story. I really enjoyed this wonderful story!
Mrs. Dove-Lyon is up to her matchmaking tricks again. She sends two sisters, Marigold and Poppy, to a house party and anything can happen. The Lyon the Liar and the Scandalous Wardrobe is a Cinderella story with a wicked stepmom and daughter with Marigold and Poppy's father keeping silent in the background. Chasity Bowling has a written a romance with flawed characters who manage to grow and yet retain their personalities which captivates you from the beginning until the very end, passion, jealousy, underhanded deception, treachery and Poppy and Julien treading a bumpy path before accepting their attraction for each other.
I received a ARC copy from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Mrs. Dove-Lyon is up to her matchmaking tricks again. She sends two sisters, Marigold and Poppy, to a house party and anything can happen. The Lyon the Liar and the Scandalous Wardrobe is a Cinderella story with a wicked stepmom and daughter with Marigold and Poppy's father keeping silent in the background. Chasity Bowling has a written a romance with flawed characters who manage to grow and yet retain their personalities which captivates you from the beginning until the very end, passion, jealousy, underhanded deception, treachery and Poppy and Julien treading a bumpy path before accepting their attraction for each other.
I received a ARC copy from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
November 20, 2023
Not sure about this book. Not the usual Lyons Den book.
marigolds and Poppy are unhappy after their fathers remarriage has made them second class citizens in their home. So Poppy younger by a year writes to her late mother's friend Mrs Dove-Lyon about finding a match for her sister and then maybe herself.
Slow to get going, and not much interaction between the two main couples, more between the two sisters or the two cousins. There are two requisite baddies, one who may or may not have been killed and the other no mention of their outcome.
The girls father appears to soften towards his daughters when coming to visit, but then greets them like they're the enemy again. A little unsatisfying.
marigolds and Poppy are unhappy after their fathers remarriage has made them second class citizens in their home. So Poppy younger by a year writes to her late mother's friend Mrs Dove-Lyon about finding a match for her sister and then maybe herself.
Slow to get going, and not much interaction between the two main couples, more between the two sisters or the two cousins. There are two requisite baddies, one who may or may not have been killed and the other no mention of their outcome.
The girls father appears to soften towards his daughters when coming to visit, but then greets them like they're the enemy again. A little unsatisfying.
November 10, 2023
Matchmaking, Abduction, Destiny:
What a terrific story this turned out to be. Lady Dove Lyon did a fantastic job matchmaking in this story of two sisters in desperate need to find themselves each a husband to get away from their evil stepmother. Will she be able to accomplish a good match for both Poppy and Marigold?This is a lighthearted romance story with a few twists, a vindictive opponent, loads of humor which made this book very enjoyable to read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed and advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
What a terrific story this turned out to be. Lady Dove Lyon did a fantastic job matchmaking in this story of two sisters in desperate need to find themselves each a husband to get away from their evil stepmother. Will she be able to accomplish a good match for both Poppy and Marigold?This is a lighthearted romance story with a few twists, a vindictive opponent, loads of humor which made this book very enjoyable to read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed and advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
November 11, 2023
A beautiful love story that had a lot of unexpected surprises along with deception and a kidnapping. The primary story being Poppy and Julien and their unexpected marriage and the secondary story with Marigold and Phillip’s proposal. I was glad to see that there was more to Phillip that was originally indicated. It’s a fun read with great characters and a well written storyline. It is very entertaining and definitely worth reading. Glad to see that Mrs. Dove-Lyon is still on her game.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and are voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2023
Very Sweet Love Story!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one. To be berated for ever thing in life from a hateful stepmother the ladies had no choice but to leave home. I’m so glad that it all worked out for Poppy and Marigold. Sisters that deserved to find love and happiness did so. Bessie almost always knows what to do. I loved most of the characters and I loved the storyline so much. The hate Miss Pelfrey and the very dead Lionel were awful people. Julien and Phillip were made for the ladies. 🥰🥰💜💜💜💜💜🥰🥰
I thoroughly enjoyed this one. To be berated for ever thing in life from a hateful stepmother the ladies had no choice but to leave home. I’m so glad that it all worked out for Poppy and Marigold. Sisters that deserved to find love and happiness did so. Bessie almost always knows what to do. I loved most of the characters and I loved the storyline so much. The hate Miss Pelfrey and the very dead Lionel were awful people. Julien and Phillip were made for the ladies. 🥰🥰💜💜💜💜💜🥰🥰
November 21, 2023
Great addition to the Lyons Den
This is one of my favorite authors and I really enjoyed this story of match making. There were a few surprises for the reader and I liked that it was a longer than other Lyon Den books. Poppy and Marigolds were escaping their step mother and used their deceased mothers friend to assist in finding a husband. Once Marigolds was married then Poppy would pursue a possible husband. Unbeknownst to their father and stepmother, the young ladies sought help and the story goes from there. Well written and kept your interest. Enjoy!
This is one of my favorite authors and I really enjoyed this story of match making. There were a few surprises for the reader and I liked that it was a longer than other Lyon Den books. Poppy and Marigolds were escaping their step mother and used their deceased mothers friend to assist in finding a husband. Once Marigolds was married then Poppy would pursue a possible husband. Unbeknownst to their father and stepmother, the young ladies sought help and the story goes from there. Well written and kept your interest. Enjoy!
November 25, 2023
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Funny. Witty characters. Fast paced. On track with the series with a couple of twists to Mrs. Dove-Lyon.
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot, even though the main theme was - she/ he/ they have a problem and need to get married.
The journey was fun. The “villains” was just mean spirited and jealous, so it was okay that the author just threw them out of the story. I did think they deserved each other but 🤷🏾♀️….
Good story. Fast paced. Minimal angst. And Dad finally grew some hair in his bullocks. 😁
Funny. Witty characters. Fast paced. On track with the series with a couple of twists to Mrs. Dove-Lyon.
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot, even though the main theme was - she/ he/ they have a problem and need to get married.
The journey was fun. The “villains” was just mean spirited and jealous, so it was okay that the author just threw them out of the story. I did think they deserved each other but 🤷🏾♀️….
Good story. Fast paced. Minimal angst. And Dad finally grew some hair in his bullocks. 😁
November 21, 2023
Poppy and Marigold Granville want to escape their unkind, inconsiderate, really awful stepmother. Poppy has a plan. She will go to Bessie-Dove Lyon, a friend of their late mother, and ask for her help. After all, matchmaking is one of her specialties. She arranges for the girls to attend a house party where Marigold will meet Lord Stanhope, and, hopefully marry him. Stanhope is looking for a bride; his cousin Julien Cross, Viscount Cressington, is not. While Marigold and Philip are not quite meshing, Julien, “I’m not ready to marry,” is quite taken with Poppy. Another guest is doing her best to win Julien for herself. There may not be a match for either sister. Is Mrs. Dove-Lyon slipping? This is a fun story with an entertaining variety of characters. There is romance and attempted romance, some scheming, and a bit of danger. Happy ending? Successful match? Yes and Yes, but for which if the sister? Another interesting tale from the Lyon’s Den.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
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