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The London Underground #1
From Duke Till Dawn
Eva Leigh launches a seductive new series that sizzles with the dark secrets of London’s underworld...
Years ago, the Duke of Greyland gave his heart—and a princely sum of money—to a charming, destitute widow with unparalleled beauty. After one passionate night, she slipped from his bed and vanished without a trace. And just when he’s given up hope of ever seeing her again, Greyland finds her managing a gaming hell. He’s desperate to have her… until he discovers everything about his long-lost lover was a lie.
In truth, Cassandra Blake grew up on the streets, picking pockets to survive. Greyland was a mark—to be fleeced and forgotten—but her feelings for the duke became all too real. Once he learns of her deception, however, the heat in his eyes turns to ice. When her business partner absconds with the gaming hell proceeds—leaving unsavory investors out for blood—Cassandra must beg the man she betrayed for help.
Greyland wants compensation, too, and he’ll assist her under one condition: she doesn’t leave his sight until her debts are paid. But it’s not long before the real Cassandra—the smart, streetwise criminal—is stealing his heart all over again.
Years ago, the Duke of Greyland gave his heart—and a princely sum of money—to a charming, destitute widow with unparalleled beauty. After one passionate night, she slipped from his bed and vanished without a trace. And just when he’s given up hope of ever seeing her again, Greyland finds her managing a gaming hell. He’s desperate to have her… until he discovers everything about his long-lost lover was a lie.
In truth, Cassandra Blake grew up on the streets, picking pockets to survive. Greyland was a mark—to be fleeced and forgotten—but her feelings for the duke became all too real. Once he learns of her deception, however, the heat in his eyes turns to ice. When her business partner absconds with the gaming hell proceeds—leaving unsavory investors out for blood—Cassandra must beg the man she betrayed for help.
Greyland wants compensation, too, and he’ll assist her under one condition: she doesn’t leave his sight until her debts are paid. But it’s not long before the real Cassandra—the smart, streetwise criminal—is stealing his heart all over again.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2017
About the author
Eva Leigh
27 books1,349 followersEva Leigh is a USA Today bestselling author who writes novels chock-full of determined women and men who are here for it. She enjoys baking, spending too much time on the Internet, and listening to music from the ’80s. Eva and her husband live in Central California.
Eva also writes in multiple romance genres as RITA-award nominated Zoë Archer. As Alexis Stanton, she wrote the novel on which the top-rated Hallmark holiday movie "A Timeless Christmas" was based.
Eva also writes in multiple romance genres as RITA-award nominated Zoë Archer. As Alexis Stanton, she wrote the novel on which the top-rated Hallmark holiday movie "A Timeless Christmas" was based.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 286 reviews
April 24, 2019
This wasn't a bad book, but I definitely prefer my historical romances to have more a more humorous tone than this one had. However, da smuts were 10/10 soooooooooo take that with a grain of salt lol
May 30, 2017
B+/4.5 stars
One of the things I’ve enjoyed about other books by this author is the way she manages to create strong, intelligent heroines who are assertive and independent while still continuing to function in a society that essentially thought women were lesser beings and wanted to shove them into a corner marked “seen, not heard”. It’s a difficult line to tread; if you go too far, your heroine is shrewish and difficult to like, if you don’t go far enough, your heroine may be too much of a doormat to appeal to a modern audience. But Eva Leigh manages to get the balance just about right, mostly because she writes about women who are not just decorative ornaments; her heroines often have to make their own livings and have learned the hard way that the one person they can always rely on (until they meet their hero, that is!) is themselves – and she does this without making them so modern as to require too much suspension of disbelief that they could exist in Regency England. Cassandra Blake, her heroine in From Duke Till Dawn is one of those women, someone who has used her wits and intelligence to make a life for herself in a hostile world.
Alexander Lewis, Duke of Greyland has been brought up to be perfect. The perfect duke. The perfect gentleman. The perfect… everything. Even at thirty-eight, he still hears his father’s booming strictures about the importance of duty and responsibility, and he has done everything possible to live up to his sire’s expectations. But he’s hit a snag in terms of fulfilling one of the most important duties to his dukedom in that the demure and very eligible young lady to whom he had betrothed himself has just run off to Gretna Green with another man. While there’s nothing Alex would rather do than slope off home to lick his wounds in solitude, he knows he has to put on a brave face and be seen out in society to show that the young woman’s actions have not affected him. In truth, they haven’t much – Alex wasn’t in love with the girl, he’s just annoyed and embarrassed at being jilted.
He’s in this morose state when his two best friends find him and insist on taking him to the newest gambling den in London. Alex’s heart isn’t in it, but he goes anyway – and is astonished when he hears a voice he’d thought never to hear again, the voice of the woman he’s nicknamed his Lost Queen. Two years earlier while in Cheltenham, Alex met and fell for a lovely widow named Cassandra Blair, a woman possessed of a quick mind as well as great beauty, and felt a intensely strong connection to her. She disappeared after their one night together, and although he never expected to see her again, Alex has never forgotten her. Yet now, here she is, as beautiful and poised as ever and Alex is smitten all over again.
Cassandra Blake is shocked at seeing the Duke of Greyland again and berates herself for returning to London where she’d known she would run the risk of meeting him again. But when her old mentor, Martin Hughes, offered her a job in which she could earn enough money to leave her life of swindling behind her and go legitimate, she couldn’t turn it down. She’s tired of the constant dishonesty and wants to live honestly – but first needs to be able to afford to do so.
Alex was supposed to have simply been a mark, a rich man she could take for a few hundred pounds, yet their brief time together meant something to Cassandra, so she falls back into her role of the beleaguered widow and makes up a story to account for the fact she left Alex so precipitately. Naturally, however, secrets such as these will out, and when Alex overhears Hughes suggesting that Cassandra try to fleece him again, he is furious and hurt by her betrayal, swearing to make her pay for her crimes.
Cassandra is completely unprepared for the visceral hurt she experiences at the disgust and betrayal in Alex’s eyes, but she has done what she has done in order to survive and doesn’t back down in the face of his angry accusations. She can’t help being afraid of his threats of retribution; but when she discovers that Hughes has done a bunk with all their money, she has more pressing concerns to face. Hughes borrowed a lot of money from a lot of shady characters in order to set up the club, and the moment news of his disappearance gets out, Cassandra knows her life will be worth less than nothing if she remains alone and unprotected. Terrified, she realises that she knows only one person in London she can trust absolutely - but he hates her and may well decide to leave her to her fate.
Alex is astonished when Cassandra arrives at his home begging for his help and has half a mind to have her thrown out – but then he realises that she is genuinely distressed, and while he is still deeply hurt by her deception, he certainly doesn’t want her dead. Believing that now he knows the truth he will be able to stop himself falling for her all over again, he agrees to help her to find Hughes, and in the process, discovers much about himself and the sort of man he really is and wants to be. I loved this aspect of the story and watching Alex gradually become his own man in truth, shedding much of his reserve and preoccupation with propriety and perfection, while retaining the parts of his character that make him a truly wonderful and memorable romantic hero.
Cassandra, too, finds her perceptions changing, her mentor’s betrayal finally opening her eyes to the truth about the hurt she must have caused those she had targeted and stolen from in the past. More than that, though, now that she is no longer part of the underground criminal community, she is forced to deal with her mistakes and face the consequences rather than running from them and jumping into the next con.
Ms. Leigh’s depiction of London’s criminal underworld is one of the book’s many strong points. Once Alex agrees to help Cassandra, he is plunged into a world he had never really known existed, one which has its own rules and pecking order, where morality is fluid and where nothing is ever black and white. It’s a real eye-opener for Alex, who soon discovers that he has to set aside some of his most deeply entrenched beliefs if he is to protect Cassandra, and ends up asking himself some difficult questions about what is truly important to him as a man versus the Greyland title.
Alex and Cassandra’s romance is imbued with sensuality and a palpable longing which builds deliciously to a fever pitch and some nicely steamy love scenes. But their emotional connection is strong, too, with both of them gradually lowering their defences to allow the other to see them as they truly are. There’s a real sense of honesty between them once they start to work together, with Alex even coming to respect and understand some of Cassandra’s choices while she recognises this new blossoming of trust for the gift it is.
From Duke Till Dawn is a terrific read, and one I’m happy to recommend most strongly. I thoroughly enjoyed my journey through the London Underground , and I’m eagerly looking forward to more.
One of the things I’ve enjoyed about other books by this author is the way she manages to create strong, intelligent heroines who are assertive and independent while still continuing to function in a society that essentially thought women were lesser beings and wanted to shove them into a corner marked “seen, not heard”. It’s a difficult line to tread; if you go too far, your heroine is shrewish and difficult to like, if you don’t go far enough, your heroine may be too much of a doormat to appeal to a modern audience. But Eva Leigh manages to get the balance just about right, mostly because she writes about women who are not just decorative ornaments; her heroines often have to make their own livings and have learned the hard way that the one person they can always rely on (until they meet their hero, that is!) is themselves – and she does this without making them so modern as to require too much suspension of disbelief that they could exist in Regency England. Cassandra Blake, her heroine in From Duke Till Dawn is one of those women, someone who has used her wits and intelligence to make a life for herself in a hostile world.
Alexander Lewis, Duke of Greyland has been brought up to be perfect. The perfect duke. The perfect gentleman. The perfect… everything. Even at thirty-eight, he still hears his father’s booming strictures about the importance of duty and responsibility, and he has done everything possible to live up to his sire’s expectations. But he’s hit a snag in terms of fulfilling one of the most important duties to his dukedom in that the demure and very eligible young lady to whom he had betrothed himself has just run off to Gretna Green with another man. While there’s nothing Alex would rather do than slope off home to lick his wounds in solitude, he knows he has to put on a brave face and be seen out in society to show that the young woman’s actions have not affected him. In truth, they haven’t much – Alex wasn’t in love with the girl, he’s just annoyed and embarrassed at being jilted.
He’s in this morose state when his two best friends find him and insist on taking him to the newest gambling den in London. Alex’s heart isn’t in it, but he goes anyway – and is astonished when he hears a voice he’d thought never to hear again, the voice of the woman he’s nicknamed his Lost Queen. Two years earlier while in Cheltenham, Alex met and fell for a lovely widow named Cassandra Blair, a woman possessed of a quick mind as well as great beauty, and felt a intensely strong connection to her. She disappeared after their one night together, and although he never expected to see her again, Alex has never forgotten her. Yet now, here she is, as beautiful and poised as ever and Alex is smitten all over again.
Cassandra Blake is shocked at seeing the Duke of Greyland again and berates herself for returning to London where she’d known she would run the risk of meeting him again. But when her old mentor, Martin Hughes, offered her a job in which she could earn enough money to leave her life of swindling behind her and go legitimate, she couldn’t turn it down. She’s tired of the constant dishonesty and wants to live honestly – but first needs to be able to afford to do so.
Alex was supposed to have simply been a mark, a rich man she could take for a few hundred pounds, yet their brief time together meant something to Cassandra, so she falls back into her role of the beleaguered widow and makes up a story to account for the fact she left Alex so precipitately. Naturally, however, secrets such as these will out, and when Alex overhears Hughes suggesting that Cassandra try to fleece him again, he is furious and hurt by her betrayal, swearing to make her pay for her crimes.
Cassandra is completely unprepared for the visceral hurt she experiences at the disgust and betrayal in Alex’s eyes, but she has done what she has done in order to survive and doesn’t back down in the face of his angry accusations. She can’t help being afraid of his threats of retribution; but when she discovers that Hughes has done a bunk with all their money, she has more pressing concerns to face. Hughes borrowed a lot of money from a lot of shady characters in order to set up the club, and the moment news of his disappearance gets out, Cassandra knows her life will be worth less than nothing if she remains alone and unprotected. Terrified, she realises that she knows only one person in London she can trust absolutely - but he hates her and may well decide to leave her to her fate.
Alex is astonished when Cassandra arrives at his home begging for his help and has half a mind to have her thrown out – but then he realises that she is genuinely distressed, and while he is still deeply hurt by her deception, he certainly doesn’t want her dead. Believing that now he knows the truth he will be able to stop himself falling for her all over again, he agrees to help her to find Hughes, and in the process, discovers much about himself and the sort of man he really is and wants to be. I loved this aspect of the story and watching Alex gradually become his own man in truth, shedding much of his reserve and preoccupation with propriety and perfection, while retaining the parts of his character that make him a truly wonderful and memorable romantic hero.
Cassandra, too, finds her perceptions changing, her mentor’s betrayal finally opening her eyes to the truth about the hurt she must have caused those she had targeted and stolen from in the past. More than that, though, now that she is no longer part of the underground criminal community, she is forced to deal with her mistakes and face the consequences rather than running from them and jumping into the next con.
Ms. Leigh’s depiction of London’s criminal underworld is one of the book’s many strong points. Once Alex agrees to help Cassandra, he is plunged into a world he had never really known existed, one which has its own rules and pecking order, where morality is fluid and where nothing is ever black and white. It’s a real eye-opener for Alex, who soon discovers that he has to set aside some of his most deeply entrenched beliefs if he is to protect Cassandra, and ends up asking himself some difficult questions about what is truly important to him as a man versus the Greyland title.
Alex and Cassandra’s romance is imbued with sensuality and a palpable longing which builds deliciously to a fever pitch and some nicely steamy love scenes. But their emotional connection is strong, too, with both of them gradually lowering their defences to allow the other to see them as they truly are. There’s a real sense of honesty between them once they start to work together, with Alex even coming to respect and understand some of Cassandra’s choices while she recognises this new blossoming of trust for the gift it is.
From Duke Till Dawn is a terrific read, and one I’m happy to recommend most strongly. I thoroughly enjoyed my journey through the London Underground , and I’m eagerly looking forward to more.
July 15, 2020
I listened to this one on audio and wasn't too impressed. I love the premise of this book and how the Duke was just a mark to make money for Cassandra when they spent a passionate night together. Fast forward years and they run into each other again and Cassandra needs the Duke's help to find someone who has betrayed her. Unfortunately, the execution of this premise was just...boring. I didn't really care about Cassandra and the Duke rehashed his feelings about things over and over again. I was really excited to try out Eva Leigh as an author, but this one wasn't anything too exciting.
June 7, 2017
(TLDR; it's a case of 'it's not you, it's me.' I'd still recommend this book. despite my rating.)
Please read the wonderful reviews written by my GR friends: Ally's review, Caz's review, Phoenix's review.
Everything they say is true. But somehow From Duke Till Dawn didn't grip me as much as I'd hoped; as I had been looking forward to it, and I did look forward to this book a lot. There was always this strange feeling of 'Ooooh, there it goes. Yes, yes, ye....No!'. That's the best way I can describe my overall thoughts about Cassandra and Alex's story.
I think a lot of it has to do with the start. Cassandra and Alex share a brief but passionate history but I never got a grip of what had initially attracted them to each other. So when the book starts two years later and they accidentally meet again, all those feelings flare up. But here I was, tapping my fingers against my Kindle, waiting...and waiting...and waiting...and nothing.
That doesn't mean the book is boring. Not at all. When Alex finds out that Cassandra is a con-woman who had fleeced him, it's a proper showdown and very well executed.
Also, this author has a way of words that surprised me, despite my lack of connection to the main characters.
There's a scene and I think I should quote it to explain my surprise.
Please read the wonderful reviews written by my GR friends: Ally's review, Caz's review, Phoenix's review.
Everything they say is true. But somehow From Duke Till Dawn didn't grip me as much as I'd hoped; as I had been looking forward to it, and I did look forward to this book a lot. There was always this strange feeling of 'Ooooh, there it goes. Yes, yes, ye....No!'. That's the best way I can describe my overall thoughts about Cassandra and Alex's story.
I think a lot of it has to do with the start. Cassandra and Alex share a brief but passionate history but I never got a grip of what had initially attracted them to each other. So when the book starts two years later and they accidentally meet again, all those feelings flare up. But here I was, tapping my fingers against my Kindle, waiting...and waiting...and waiting...and nothing.
That doesn't mean the book is boring. Not at all. When Alex finds out that Cassandra is a con-woman who had fleeced him, it's a proper showdown and very well executed.
Also, this author has a way of words that surprised me, despite my lack of connection to the main characters.
There's a scene and I think I should quote it to explain my surprise.
“You underestimated me once,” he said softly. “And I misjudged you. You thought you could play me for a dupe, and I understood you to be a woman of honor. Neither of those mistakes will ever be made again.”I'm usually a skip-reader. Things like 'he said softly', I skip. Not always, but often. I was reading this part and half-skipped the 'he said softly' again. But then it caught my eye and I re-read that part. What he says to her is something a romance hero will say with a tight jaw and clenched fists. However, the 'he said softly' changed the whole scene that I'd been playing out in my head, and all of a sudden the meaning of his words changed as well. And I was not only surprised but loved the way how the author could turn a run-of-the-mill scene with one word. That's why I will definitely be reading this author again.
November 17, 2018
This story for me was just Ok: I do love me a good historical that gets the juices pumping.
Sadly for me, this wasn't juice pumping stuff sigh.
There was nothing I could actually put my finger on that made me so disconnected here I just was.
From Duke Till Dawn is essentially a second chance love affair featuring a duke and a con artist at its centre.
So the Duke of Grayland and Miss Cassandra Blake have a moment: at least on his part.
Stepping back into there lives neither quite forgot the other: both still carrying a lit torch.
but with lies and deceit standing in there path blocking the way to true happiness it really does seem hopeless.
So when a chance encounters at a later date brings these two together again Cassandras lies topple over like a pack of cards revealing the utter deception beneath.
Not exactly impressed at being her patsy the Duke is determined to enact his pound of flesh.
But when Cassandras business partner does a runner leaving her in the lurch there's only one man she can turn to for help.
So yeh this was very instalove and a trifle monotonous in places.
This story had its moments but I essentially found it hard initially to warm to either character.
The Duke seemed to have a bit of a superiority problem and also seemed trifle clueless and unforgiving of what Cassandra had done ultimately for survival.
Did find this a bit harsh myself.
Cassandra well I just wasn't feeling her and I'm not really sure why that was.
Look: if you like a sweet love story that is equal parts suspense and romance then this will more than likely appeal to you.
Myself I prefer something a tad grittier.
So this was well written despite my slight disconnect and I can definitely recommend this on that particular front.
Just a shame this ultimately wasn't my particular brand of Bovril.
I voluntary reviewed an Arc of From Duke Till Dawn (The London Underground, #1)
All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
Shelved as 'nevermind'
October 5, 2017DNF at 48%
I'm really not feeling this one. It's been a couple days since I've read this, and even then I was skimming. I have no desire to pick it up again.
All these characters do is think about each other, which is fine for a while but then it gets boring. When they have conversations, they're not very exciting and I'm left feeling like I'm missing something. That may be because they met in the past and had a brief affair, but all we know of that time is that they had hot sex. I have no idea how deeply they connected through conversation, which makes their present conversations seem much too familiar, and their physical attraction too shallow. I think this book would have benefited from a few chapters from the past in the beginning, which is how it was done to great effect in Stormswept.
There were also little things about the writing that annoyed me.
- She gave her cheeks a light pinch, just to put some color there. Cosmetics were for the demimonde.
Was that really necessary? Plenty of female characters do this without feeling the need to remind the reader that they're still better than whores. Annoying.
- He would give her the protection of his body and his title. But his heart would never be hers.
What? She hasn't expressed an interest in his heart. Unnecessary angst in a book full of angst.
I'm really not feeling this one. It's been a couple days since I've read this, and even then I was skimming. I have no desire to pick it up again.
All these characters do is think about each other, which is fine for a while but then it gets boring. When they have conversations, they're not very exciting and I'm left feeling like I'm missing something. That may be because they met in the past and had a brief affair, but all we know of that time is that they had hot sex. I have no idea how deeply they connected through conversation, which makes their present conversations seem much too familiar, and their physical attraction too shallow. I think this book would have benefited from a few chapters from the past in the beginning, which is how it was done to great effect in Stormswept.
There were also little things about the writing that annoyed me.
- She gave her cheeks a light pinch, just to put some color there. Cosmetics were for the demimonde.
Was that really necessary? Plenty of female characters do this without feeling the need to remind the reader that they're still better than whores. Annoying.
- He would give her the protection of his body and his title. But his heart would never be hers.
What? She hasn't expressed an interest in his heart. Unnecessary angst in a book full of angst.
September 24, 2024
Meh.... The first four chapters were really slow to get thru. After that, once the hero learned of her deception, it started to get more interesting. The hero got understandably pissed at realizing that this heroine that he had met with two years ago (and fell madly in love with during those 2 days) had conned him and was a liar. He was supposed to become cold, icy in his rage, etc and I was excited to watch them learn to trust each other again and fall in love again.
Unfortunately the hero seemed to get over his irritation within 24 hours time and was back at his insta-love inner thoughts. That was the other thing... this story was over flowing with inner thoughts used as filler material. Especially of how the heroine thought how unworthy she was to be his duchess and how she needed to just disappear to escape heartache. It got real old.
On a side note: I see some reviewers noted that this author writes really hot, steamy sex scenes... what I picked up on was actually shock value sex scenes. There was a sex club house party the hero and heroine attended (as part of trying to locate a missing person, of course) and this was a good excuse for the author to describe all sorts of erotic acts going on in the rooms they walked thru, and then when the hero and heroine FINALLY get to their big moment, what stood out to me was the dirty talk, not so much the romance, feelings or sexual act itself. To each their own, so I just wanted to give you a heads up in case that is a big turn off to you!
Unfortunately the hero seemed to get over his irritation within 24 hours time and was back at his insta-love inner thoughts. That was the other thing... this story was over flowing with inner thoughts used as filler material. Especially of how the heroine thought how unworthy she was to be his duchess and how she needed to just disappear to escape heartache. It got real old.
On a side note: I see some reviewers noted that this author writes really hot, steamy sex scenes... what I picked up on was actually shock value sex scenes. There was a sex club house party the hero and heroine attended (as part of trying to locate a missing person, of course) and this was a good excuse for the author to describe all sorts of erotic acts going on in the rooms they walked thru, and then when the hero and heroine FINALLY get to their big moment, what stood out to me was the dirty talk, not so much the romance, feelings or sexual act itself. To each their own, so I just wanted to give you a heads up in case that is a big turn off to you!
November 11, 2019
The smut is strong in this one, and I mean it in the best possible way. Sexy times are exciting but they don’t happen often enough so that they become repetitive and boring.
It was a ton of fun. The hero was an uptight tuff, just ripe to have his heart broken. But, dear goodreaders, he was never an asshole. The person who suffered most from his rigidness was his own self. It was a great adventure to see him lose what he thought was his core identity. And say naughty words.
The heroine, in turn, was strong and capable but aware of her weaknesses too and when it was right to ask and hope for help.
It was a relief to read a romance when people didn’t act like complete idiots just to create the necessary drama and move the plot along.
It was a ton of fun. The hero was an uptight tuff, just ripe to have his heart broken. But, dear goodreaders, he was never an asshole. The person who suffered most from his rigidness was his own self. It was a great adventure to see him lose what he thought was his core identity. And say naughty words.
The heroine, in turn, was strong and capable but aware of her weaknesses too and when it was right to ask and hope for help.
It was a relief to read a romance when people didn’t act like complete idiots just to create the necessary drama and move the plot along.
Shelved as 'dnf'
August 18, 2017MEH.
I only got through four chapters of this before giving up out of sheer boredom and total disinterest. The romance was insta in nature and a bit hard to take seriously. The leads had a VERY brief affair (TWO DAYS IN TOTAL) years prior to the start of the book and I as the reader was expected to believe that that moment in time (which wasn’t even presented in a prologue chapter for reference or emotional purposes) equated to love? Yeah, NO. The fact that the heroine was conning the hero during this supposedly life altering event, and again when they later reunite, furthered my incredulity of the setup and the execution of it.
Now I love Eva Leigh’s writing and maybe this book got better in later chapters, but my patience just wasn’t there to find out either way. I’m quite disappointed because there were hints of would-be greatness mostly centered on Alex, the starchy hero desperate for love who had evocative (if flowery?) thoughts like this:
I only got through four chapters of this before giving up out of sheer boredom and total disinterest. The romance was insta in nature and a bit hard to take seriously. The leads had a VERY brief affair (TWO DAYS IN TOTAL) years prior to the start of the book and I as the reader was expected to believe that that moment in time (which wasn’t even presented in a prologue chapter for reference or emotional purposes) equated to love? Yeah, NO. The fact that the heroine was conning the hero during this supposedly life altering event, and again when they later reunite, furthered my incredulity of the setup and the execution of it.
Now I love Eva Leigh’s writing and maybe this book got better in later chapters, but my patience just wasn’t there to find out either way. I’m quite disappointed because there were hints of would-be greatness mostly centered on Alex, the starchy hero desperate for love who had evocative (if flowery?) thoughts like this:
“He’d seen a flame smoldering beneath the coolness of her exterior and it called to him, like a fire seen through a long, dark night.”Alas, it wasn’t enough for me to keep reading. Oh well. Hopefully the next book in the series will prove more to my liking.
January 28, 2019
This is my first Eva Leigh novel but it will NOT be my last. Loved this one. What stands out is how well formed her heroine is in this one ... she is strong, assertive and confident. This can be difficult with historicals as they are set in a time that was not kind to strong, assertive or confident women. But, Eva Leigh was able to make it work and work extremely well. I really loved this romance - it's a fun and interesting read. Highly recommend!
May 22, 2017
From Duke Till Dawn changes the perspective usually seen in historical romance. Most times the story is told through the viewpoint of the rich, where the mansions, ballrooms and men’s clubs of London are standard fare. Author Eva Leigh takes all of that glamour and turns it on its ear to show how isolated from real life that perspective is. Along the way she opens up a whole new side of the city, full of shady characters living by their wits and entertainments that feed the sensual desires of men and women. It all comes together into a story that is intelligent, romantic, and plays by its own rules.
Alexander Lewis, the Duke of Greyland, is normally well above the gossip exchanged throughout the ton like a commodity; however when Alexander is jilted by his prospective duchess his name is the one on everyone’s lips. Reluctantly he drags himself back into the social whirl of the Season, if only to assure people that he’s unaffected by the loss. In truth, Alex is more annoyed he’ll have to start the whole process over again rather than broken hearted at the rejection. Emotion had little to do with the match and hasn’t been a consideration for Alex since he lost the one woman he’d felt connected with. Two years before, while visiting the spa town of Cheltenham, Alex let himself fall for a beautiful widow who was astute, witty and practically perfect. Their time together was short but for Alex it was meaningful enough that he’s been carrying a torch for his Lost Queen even though she left him behind.
While out with friends visiting an exclusive new gambling hell, Alex is surprised to hear the voice of The Lost Queen there in London. Searching the room Alex sees Mrs. Blair in all her splendor but apparently now working as a hostess for the hell’s owner Mr. Hamish. Alex’s surprise at seeing her again is surpassed by his overwhelming feeling that her presence in town is a second chance for them. Mrs. Blair seems skittish but still happy to see Alex so he makes plans to return to the establishment to see if there’s a way to renew their acquaintance.
Please read the full review on All About Romance
Alexander Lewis, the Duke of Greyland, is normally well above the gossip exchanged throughout the ton like a commodity; however when Alexander is jilted by his prospective duchess his name is the one on everyone’s lips. Reluctantly he drags himself back into the social whirl of the Season, if only to assure people that he’s unaffected by the loss. In truth, Alex is more annoyed he’ll have to start the whole process over again rather than broken hearted at the rejection. Emotion had little to do with the match and hasn’t been a consideration for Alex since he lost the one woman he’d felt connected with. Two years before, while visiting the spa town of Cheltenham, Alex let himself fall for a beautiful widow who was astute, witty and practically perfect. Their time together was short but for Alex it was meaningful enough that he’s been carrying a torch for his Lost Queen even though she left him behind.
While out with friends visiting an exclusive new gambling hell, Alex is surprised to hear the voice of The Lost Queen there in London. Searching the room Alex sees Mrs. Blair in all her splendor but apparently now working as a hostess for the hell’s owner Mr. Hamish. Alex’s surprise at seeing her again is surpassed by his overwhelming feeling that her presence in town is a second chance for them. Mrs. Blair seems skittish but still happy to see Alex so he makes plans to return to the establishment to see if there’s a way to renew their acquaintance.
Please read the full review on All About Romance
June 23, 2017
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (live 7/12)
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tyWQaG
So dang pretty! And a fun read, too. From Duke Till Dawn was...intriguing.
The Gist: A couple years back Cassandra, well, she swindled our dear proper Duke then dashed away in the middle of the night with him none the wiser. He's never forgotten the sexy widow and when he stumbles on her in a random gaming hell he's thinking luck is on his side again! Until he realizes he'd been a mark all those years ago. Talk about an ego blow! Damn if he doesn't want in her swindling naughty girl historical panties, though. And she might just want that, too!
These two were night and day. Cassandra was all about the con and really rather brazen and Alex was all about honor, doing what was right and keeping his name pristine. So seeing them deal with each other was pretty dang fun.
There was a bit of excitement as the two teamed up to track down her swindler and get her out of danger with London's criminal underground. Woo some of it made me so mad! They made a pretty good team, though, and had some yummy chemistry. Even when angry. Maybe especially then. Noms! The two were fiery for sure.
I'm so not a fan of the swindler trope especially when it's used against a future mate so I was really nervous about this one. I was torn just like Alex in dealing with Cassandra. Anger, sympathy, intrigue. She'd done so many wrongs but her life had also been full of desperation and hurts that made it understandable in some ways. It did help that she ended up a mark by another swindler and really felt what she'd done to him. I appreciated that and seeing her fight her way out of a jam.
Overall. From Duke Till Dawn was a fun little adventure. I'm glad I checked it out and am curious to see what will happen next with the series.
March 23, 2019
I can't quite put my finger on why, but this did not do it for me. I wasn't invested in the couple, either alone or together. I was bored and skimmed the last 50 pages or so. I think I wanted the heroine to be more genuinely bad (she's a swindler as it was the only way to support herself) and to corrupt the uptight duke hero a bit?? But instead she kept insisting she was really a good righteous girl who wanted to get off the path of sin. Boring!
February 18, 2021
5 Words: Duplicity, scheming, lust, understanding, survival.
I was so invested in the story. As well as being passionate, this romance feels a bit like a thriller - it is very intense and it leads to a very exhilarating read.
I loved Cassandra and Alex, and the way they clashed in so many ways.
I will definitely read more of The London Underground series. Outstanding!
I was so invested in the story. As well as being passionate, this romance feels a bit like a thriller - it is very intense and it leads to a very exhilarating read.
I loved Cassandra and Alex, and the way they clashed in so many ways.
I will definitely read more of The London Underground series. Outstanding!
August 3, 2017
A little bit of a let down :( None of the characters were as kickass as they were made to be
October 2, 2023
Read: 9/30/23
A generous 3 stars.
This was an okay book.
RTC
A generous 3 stars.
This was an okay book.
RTC
June 5, 2019
I had heard cool stuff about Eva Leigh books before I decided to pick up From Duke Till Dawn. I heard they were feminist, sex positive, and fun books to read. After reading this one, I can say those claims are mostly true. The "fun" one is a bit subjective. From the pun in the title to the caper like blurb I thought this was going to be a rom-com. It wasn't. I do prefer my historical romance to have a humorous quality so the fact that this wasn't meant to be all that funny made me take off a star. However, that's just my personal taste and maybe that kind of thing won't bother other historical romance readers.
The premise for the story is pretty fun and one I haven't necessarily read much of before. This is about Alex, the Duke of Greyland, and Cassandra, a con-woman. Some time ago, Cassandra conned Alex out of a lot of money, had sex with him, and ran off in the night. Now, several years later, their paths cross again only for Alex to find out she played him. The plot thickens when Cassandra's "business" partner takes off with all the money leaving her in debt to some of the most dangerous criminals of the London underground. The only person she can turn to for help is the one person with good reason to despise her, Alex. Then there's peril and drama as they try to hunt down her "business" partner and recover the stolen money.
How's the smut? I'm glad you asked. It's actually pretty good. I was impressed by it. I will say that the smut doesn't happen until much further into the book so it's a bit of a slow burn. However, the smut that we did get was pretty steamy. One thing I did like about the story was that it was sex positive. Cassandra and Alex have both been with multiple people and neither one shames the other for it. That's somewhat rare for the time period in historical romance. I think almost all of the books I've read in the genre feature virgin women. However, I think it's rather refreshing to have a "light skirt" in the mix as well and for her to not be seen as somehow "ruined" because of it.
In the end I pretty much got everything that I wanted to get out the book. It was feminist, sex positive, and fun. The only thing it didn't really deliver on was humor. I think if this was more of a comedy and a bit less of a drama I would have enjoyed it much more. It would have been a contender for a 5 star rating. But as it stands right now, I still gave this a 4 because it was a good time to read.
The premise for the story is pretty fun and one I haven't necessarily read much of before. This is about Alex, the Duke of Greyland, and Cassandra, a con-woman. Some time ago, Cassandra conned Alex out of a lot of money, had sex with him, and ran off in the night. Now, several years later, their paths cross again only for Alex to find out she played him. The plot thickens when Cassandra's "business" partner takes off with all the money leaving her in debt to some of the most dangerous criminals of the London underground. The only person she can turn to for help is the one person with good reason to despise her, Alex. Then there's peril and drama as they try to hunt down her "business" partner and recover the stolen money.
How's the smut? I'm glad you asked. It's actually pretty good. I was impressed by it. I will say that the smut doesn't happen until much further into the book so it's a bit of a slow burn. However, the smut that we did get was pretty steamy. One thing I did like about the story was that it was sex positive. Cassandra and Alex have both been with multiple people and neither one shames the other for it. That's somewhat rare for the time period in historical romance. I think almost all of the books I've read in the genre feature virgin women. However, I think it's rather refreshing to have a "light skirt" in the mix as well and for her to not be seen as somehow "ruined" because of it.
In the end I pretty much got everything that I wanted to get out the book. It was feminist, sex positive, and fun. The only thing it didn't really deliver on was humor. I think if this was more of a comedy and a bit less of a drama I would have enjoyed it much more. It would have been a contender for a 5 star rating. But as it stands right now, I still gave this a 4 because it was a good time to read.
February 23, 2019
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
From Duke Till Dawn is the first book in Eva Leigh’s “The London Underground” and I was super excited for this book especially after reading the third installment in the series “Dare To Love A Duke” and where I was charmed by Alex and I really wanted to read his story and was delighted when I saw this book available at my local library. I had a fun time with this book although I do want to mention that the beginning of story is a bit stunted and might throw the reader off, I recommend sticking with the story because it does improve the more you read.
The Duke of Greyland has never fully gotten over the one woman that he fell in love with who was a widow in need and they had a passionate one night stand but then she disappeared and he never heard from her again. But when his two friends drag him to a gambling club, he runs into Cassandra again and he is shocked to see her alive and well. But then Alex learns that Cassandra is not the woman he thought she was, that she was never a widow and that she played him all those years ago, since she is highly experienced at being a swindler to survive and Alex is furious.
Cassandra, was born on the streets and she had to learn how to survive in the best way that she knew how by pick pocketing, or stealing so that she wouldn’t have to deal in prostitution unless she had no choice. She has grown up working with thieves and swindlers. She is currently working with a man who taught her to swindle and is like a father to her and in their current venture planning on setting somewhere else and have a fresh start. But then she runs into Alex again and when he learns the truth he is feeling betrayed and she is the cause of that betrayal and she has never felt remorse until now because she loves Alex and has never forgotten him after all these years. But when she is betrayed herself and her father figure abandons her and many other relying on the money they gathered together in their gambling club venture, if she wants to survive she will need to go to Alex for help and hope that he will forgive her one day.
From Duke Till Dawn, was a enjoyable read, and it may not be my favorite from this author, but I had a fun time with this story but it did take a while before I started to really enjoy it. Its a page turner, so no worries are being able to get into the story but it did start out a bit strange for a second chance romance. There wasn’t any flashbacks (which I was alright with) but it was the way the story was told that seemed a bit unbalanced in the first third part of the book. But then something changed and this is when the story really started to work for me. I really loved the growth of the characters in this book. Cassandra learns about regret and committing wrongs and the guilt that comes with taking advantage of other’s generosity. And Alex learns about the lives about those that live in the underground of London, about poverty and desperation and what some people will need to do in order to survive. He learns the value of forgiveness and redemption. I adored seeing these two grow together and learn to accept one another and their pasts.
From Duke Till Dawn is a story that is packed with adventure, mystery, emotional growth and a sexy romance that is pure sensation!!
From Duke Till Dawn is the first book in Eva Leigh’s “The London Underground” and I was super excited for this book especially after reading the third installment in the series “Dare To Love A Duke” and where I was charmed by Alex and I really wanted to read his story and was delighted when I saw this book available at my local library. I had a fun time with this book although I do want to mention that the beginning of story is a bit stunted and might throw the reader off, I recommend sticking with the story because it does improve the more you read.
She wouldn't have believed such an honorable, principled man would make love to her like he was born for the task. As though his only desire was to give her unending pleasure
The Duke of Greyland has never fully gotten over the one woman that he fell in love with who was a widow in need and they had a passionate one night stand but then she disappeared and he never heard from her again. But when his two friends drag him to a gambling club, he runs into Cassandra again and he is shocked to see her alive and well. But then Alex learns that Cassandra is not the woman he thought she was, that she was never a widow and that she played him all those years ago, since she is highly experienced at being a swindler to survive and Alex is furious.
I'd been like an automaton, going through the paces of my life mechanically, dutifully. But you've taken me from the confines of my comfortable, familiar world and introduced me to danger, and excitement and a giddy sort of joy.
Cassandra, was born on the streets and she had to learn how to survive in the best way that she knew how by pick pocketing, or stealing so that she wouldn’t have to deal in prostitution unless she had no choice. She has grown up working with thieves and swindlers. She is currently working with a man who taught her to swindle and is like a father to her and in their current venture planning on setting somewhere else and have a fresh start. But then she runs into Alex again and when he learns the truth he is feeling betrayed and she is the cause of that betrayal and she has never felt remorse until now because she loves Alex and has never forgotten him after all these years. But when she is betrayed herself and her father figure abandons her and many other relying on the money they gathered together in their gambling club venture, if she wants to survive she will need to go to Alex for help and hope that he will forgive her one day.
He was everything she dared to dream of but could not allow herself to expect
From Duke Till Dawn, was a enjoyable read, and it may not be my favorite from this author, but I had a fun time with this story but it did take a while before I started to really enjoy it. Its a page turner, so no worries are being able to get into the story but it did start out a bit strange for a second chance romance. There wasn’t any flashbacks (which I was alright with) but it was the way the story was told that seemed a bit unbalanced in the first third part of the book. But then something changed and this is when the story really started to work for me. I really loved the growth of the characters in this book. Cassandra learns about regret and committing wrongs and the guilt that comes with taking advantage of other’s generosity. And Alex learns about the lives about those that live in the underground of London, about poverty and desperation and what some people will need to do in order to survive. He learns the value of forgiveness and redemption. I adored seeing these two grow together and learn to accept one another and their pasts.
You're the woman I love. Courageous. Strong. Wickedly intelligent" He touched his fingertips to the underside of her chin, holding her reverently. "I want all of you. And I want to give you all of me"
From Duke Till Dawn is a story that is packed with adventure, mystery, emotional growth and a sexy romance that is pure sensation!!
December 4, 2019
He's lonely and she's the woman who left after one passionate night, many years before. When they meet again, he realised that she's a swindler. She's so interesting, but now the tables have been turned on her, and she's shattered. She's not a bad person, just living as best she can. He's a good man, and she introduced him to a different world. I liked this well written angsty story.
July 4, 2017
Soft hero. Gutsy heroine. Steamy. YES.
May 27, 2017
The first book in Eva's new Series "The London Underground" is a great read. The Trope is different in that the heroine, Cassandra is not well born. She spent her childhood in Debtor's Prison with her Father after her Mother left. She grew up on the streets of London and was mentored by a criminal who taught her the Confidence Game and she became an expert at swindling people out of their money. She has only known how to survive in the harsh world that she grew up in. Happy moments are rare in her life.
Alex, The Duke of Greyland has known only duty and honor his whole life. From a very young age his father drilled into his head the duties, responsibilities of what it means to be a Duke of the Realm.
He was raised by servants and tutors, if his parents loved him it was at best, tepid. He picked out the perfect young lady to be marry and become his Duchess and bear him children. The only problem is that she eloped with a poor soldier and left him open to gossip and speculation, which he will not tolerate.
To prove to Society that he is not hiding and nursing a broken heart he agrees to join his two friends at a new Gaming Hell that has just opened. While there he hears a woman laugh that brings back the only time in his life where his heart and mind connected with another human being. She was a widow who he spent time with over two years ago. The last time he saw her was in his bed after they had made love. He fell asleep with her in his arms and when he woke up the next day she was gone. It was like he lost his heart and soul when she left. He never felt that way about a woman ever.
When he finds out that everything he knew about her was a lie, he vows revenge. But when she comes to him for help, will he be able to turn her away? The journey that Eva takes these characters on is engaging, intensely emotional and dangerous. Can they both put aside there prejudices about each other classes and have a HAE. This is a story of an adventure that will have you reading late into the night.
Received a Complimentary copy for an honest review.
Alex, The Duke of Greyland has known only duty and honor his whole life. From a very young age his father drilled into his head the duties, responsibilities of what it means to be a Duke of the Realm.
He was raised by servants and tutors, if his parents loved him it was at best, tepid. He picked out the perfect young lady to be marry and become his Duchess and bear him children. The only problem is that she eloped with a poor soldier and left him open to gossip and speculation, which he will not tolerate.
To prove to Society that he is not hiding and nursing a broken heart he agrees to join his two friends at a new Gaming Hell that has just opened. While there he hears a woman laugh that brings back the only time in his life where his heart and mind connected with another human being. She was a widow who he spent time with over two years ago. The last time he saw her was in his bed after they had made love. He fell asleep with her in his arms and when he woke up the next day she was gone. It was like he lost his heart and soul when she left. He never felt that way about a woman ever.
When he finds out that everything he knew about her was a lie, he vows revenge. But when she comes to him for help, will he be able to turn her away? The journey that Eva takes these characters on is engaging, intensely emotional and dangerous. Can they both put aside there prejudices about each other classes and have a HAE. This is a story of an adventure that will have you reading late into the night.
Received a Complimentary copy for an honest review.
May 19, 2017
My overall thought from this book? Meh. I liked it, there's nothing wrong with it, nothing that made me mad (see: too many books recently...). But it didn't hold my attention, either. Gorgeous cover, and it had its moments/quotes, but sadly this book wasn't anything special for me. I'm curious about a future couple so I'll still be back for more.
Full review is now up on TBQ's Book Palace.
If you wish to look at some quotes/thoughts I highlighted, please check out my Twitter feed
Full review is now up on TBQ's Book Palace.
If you wish to look at some quotes/thoughts I highlighted, please check out my Twitter feed
August 13, 2021
2.75 Not too bad. Could have focused more on the romance.
October 31, 2020
Just not feeling this. Never warmed to Alex or Cassandra.
August 16, 2018
This was my first time reading an adult romance novel, as the genre isn't something that has particularly grabbed my interest until now. However, now I've reached the point where most YA novels featuring a romance have me rolling my eyes at their cringe level, I thought it was time to try something new.
From Duke till Dawn ended up completely blowing away my expectations, and I gave it 4/5*. Due to my lack of experience with romance novels, i wasn't expecting such a well-developed and engaging plot. Although the romance was enjoyable, without it I would have been more than happy to keep reading about the underground criminals of London and what it takes to survive there. I really felt for Cassandra's situation and was thrilled that she got an ending that she deserved.
I thought that the Duke was good match for her, and appreciated the determination of both protagonists to smash social expectations in the name of love. His interactions with his friends also brought a lighter and more humorous tone to some scenes and added to fleshing out the Duke's life and other relationships in the same way that we learn about the communities Cassandra operates in.
I think the balance of romance to action was done well here, although I definitely didn't hate the racier scenes, I'm glad they were accompanied by such a detailed and consequential journey on Cassandra's part. I'd also definitely be interested in reading more books in this series, as the treatment of different lives and social circles in London fascinated. I think Leigh could be well on her way to building an extremely successful and alluring version of London.
From Duke till Dawn ended up completely blowing away my expectations, and I gave it 4/5*. Due to my lack of experience with romance novels, i wasn't expecting such a well-developed and engaging plot. Although the romance was enjoyable, without it I would have been more than happy to keep reading about the underground criminals of London and what it takes to survive there. I really felt for Cassandra's situation and was thrilled that she got an ending that she deserved.
I thought that the Duke was good match for her, and appreciated the determination of both protagonists to smash social expectations in the name of love. His interactions with his friends also brought a lighter and more humorous tone to some scenes and added to fleshing out the Duke's life and other relationships in the same way that we learn about the communities Cassandra operates in.
I think the balance of romance to action was done well here, although I definitely didn't hate the racier scenes, I'm glad they were accompanied by such a detailed and consequential journey on Cassandra's part. I'd also definitely be interested in reading more books in this series, as the treatment of different lives and social circles in London fascinated. I think Leigh could be well on her way to building an extremely successful and alluring version of London.
May 29, 2017
3.5 stars
From Duke Till Dawn is the first book in the London Underground series and the first book, I read from this author. In the begging, I was happy with the direction of the plot. I liked that our heroine wasn't as sweet and innocent as the hero thought she was.She tricked him into giving her money two years ago. When I read that I was kind of happy because it wasn't the usual plot in a historical novel and I kept reading very enthusiastically. I was hooked. I was enjoying the book until it started to feel more contemporary than historical. The tone of the book didn't match the time of the period our characters live in. It felt off to me and I wasn't happy. The joy I had felt while reading the book had started to fade away. Langdon and Amina's story was teased in this book and is the main reason why I am thinking of reading the second book.
I liked Alex's evolution as a character. He seemed to become a different person from the one he was in the begging of the book. His time with Cassandra changed him for the best. I feel like Cassandra stayed the same person who has seen too much and doesn't let herself be affected by the good of the world anymore. I would have liked to see her warming up a little. For me, she was too cold and jaded.
I am giving 3.5 stars to the book because it's my middle rating. Usually the lowest rating I give is 2 stars so 3.5 is in the middle. I really have to hate a novel in order to give it 1 star. I liked half of this book and I liked the development of on half of the main couple, so I feel this is a justified rating for the book.
From Duke Till Dawn is the first book in the London Underground series and the first book, I read from this author. In the begging, I was happy with the direction of the plot. I liked that our heroine wasn't as sweet and innocent as the hero thought she was.She tricked him into giving her money two years ago. When I read that I was kind of happy because it wasn't the usual plot in a historical novel and I kept reading very enthusiastically. I was hooked. I was enjoying the book until it started to feel more contemporary than historical. The tone of the book didn't match the time of the period our characters live in. It felt off to me and I wasn't happy. The joy I had felt while reading the book had started to fade away. Langdon and Amina's story was teased in this book and is the main reason why I am thinking of reading the second book.
I liked Alex's evolution as a character. He seemed to become a different person from the one he was in the begging of the book. His time with Cassandra changed him for the best. I feel like Cassandra stayed the same person who has seen too much and doesn't let herself be affected by the good of the world anymore. I would have liked to see her warming up a little. For me, she was too cold and jaded.
I am giving 3.5 stars to the book because it's my middle rating. Usually the lowest rating I give is 2 stars so 3.5 is in the middle. I really have to hate a novel in order to give it 1 star. I liked half of this book and I liked the development of on half of the main couple, so I feel this is a justified rating for the book.
January 12, 2019
1.5 - 2 stars:
1. I found the hero as appealing as a dead stick in dry mud, he had no personality, so I don't see or belive the heroine's attraction (beyond the physical) and feelings after two nights together two years ago.
2. Writing like this
"The logic and reserve that he’d held so dear had sailed away on a voyage of unknown length, perhaps never to return."
3. The book also brought me close to my crude/dirty talk line - and when they had sex in public at a sex party it crossed.
Yup I'm a prude that way when it comes to my historical romance novels.
1. I found the hero as appealing as a dead stick in dry mud, he had no personality, so I don't see or belive the heroine's attraction (beyond the physical) and feelings after two nights together two years ago.
2. Writing like this
"The logic and reserve that he’d held so dear had sailed away on a voyage of unknown length, perhaps never to return."
3. The book also brought me close to my crude/dirty talk line - and when they had sex in public at a sex party it crossed.
Yup I'm a prude that way when it comes to my historical romance novels.
January 26, 2019
Five Stars
A very enjoyable read from this new-to-me author. A strong heroine from the streets who captures the heart of an honorable, duty driven Duke. Great story with interesting and believable characters. Looking forward to the next in series.
A very enjoyable read from this new-to-me author. A strong heroine from the streets who captures the heart of an honorable, duty driven Duke. Great story with interesting and believable characters. Looking forward to the next in series.
July 5, 2017
DNF. I'm shocked this was supposedly a can't miss book. One-dimensional, stereotypical characters; trite, overused plot lines. I quit at the 50% mark.
January 30, 2019
This is the first I have read Eva Leigh, really? I can’t believe that myself, I must constantly walk around with my eyes closed off to the world, to have missed out on such a fabulous author. But, I can guarantee that this will not be the last, I am determined to read more by Ms Leigh.
I was instantly taken with the premise of this book, was the way the hero is portrayed she is independent, strong, reliant and manages to manoeuvrer her way through a man’s world and manages to hold her head up high and say “Yes, I can do exactly what I want and will have the respect” At times in Historical romances it can be hard to have the heroine really stand out as herself, there is very few authors who can really make their heroines likeable as well as real and Ms Leigh has definitely made it on to that list of the very few who can create a real heroine who you not only can relate to but who is incredible in her own right. Anyone who knows me, will know how much I love a romance where the character is a self made man/woman and yet another reason why I love this book.
Years before Alex; the Duke of Greyland met the most glorious woman he has ever set eyes on, he gave her his heart and soul. For a Duke who lives by the code of responsibility and the rules that surrounds his station letting anyone peer past his aristocratic cool exterior to the sensual man within wasn’t easily done. So, when she disappears with a large amount of his money he is devastated. Now at the ripe old age; of thirty- eight Alex knows that he really needs to get on with finding himself a wife and procuring the mandatory heir, but when he does he is yet again left all on his tod. As the chit goes and elopes with a cavalry officer and runs of to Gretna Green. Yep, Alex isn’t having the best of times and things become even more complicated for Alex as he comes face to face with his ‘Queen’ in an unarmed gaming hell. What the hell was she doing, and more importantly who exactly is this mysterious woman who stole his heart.
I will admit that it took me a while to warm to Alex, but once you get past the moody egotistical and self-pitying Duke and get to the man warm, sexy, sensitive man behind the mask, he is quite the catch. He thinks that because everyone has so far let him for whatever reason he now believes him to be unlovable, unwanted – which is totally wrong, and something he does soon learn.
To say that Cassandra Blake is shocked to bump into the very man who she stole from but the man she has unfortunately fallen in love with after she dumped him so callously is an understatement. She is now working for her old mentor Martin Hughes in his gaming hell, Hughes on finding out about her and Alex’s brief encounter wants to cash in once again and she has no choice but to go along with his plan. After all this man could put her on that transportation ship or even worse put the noose around her neck as he knows all about her life of crime.
One thing leads to another and as with all historical romances our hero and heroine get their happy ever after, but there is some twists to the tale, there is hurts, lies and harsh truths which must be faced before that happens.
I adore Cassandra, again and again she has found herself in a precarious place, from picking pockets as a child to pulling cons and ending up working the floor and tables in a gaming hell – one that unusually has no name. She has been through some really tough times, she has seen her fare share of troubles but she has taken the bull by it’s horn and battled through to become the mysterious ‘Queen’ I found Cassandra to be highly intelligent, resilient, independent, great at thinking on her feet and even though she has spent a life conning and swindling – but all or a good reason- she isn’t heartless or cold. She feels genuinely bad about all the things she has done especially what he did to Alex. She is a kind woman, maybe not an honest one but we can see past that once you get to know her. And her love and friendship with Alex shows just what kind of warm and caring woman she is. All she wants now is to go on the straight and narrow, she’s had enough of the cons and the criminal aspect of her past hanging over her head.
This is a brilliant introduction to a new-to-me author, I love Ms Leigh’s writing style, it’s fast-paced and flows with absolute ease taking the reader on a whirlwind journey through he criminal underworld of London. The research is spot on the mark, the detailing of everything from the clothes, scenery and setting makes the whole story come to life with dazzling effect. The story is imaginative, sensual, atmospheric, rich with allure and shines with regency glitter. I absolutely loved it.
I was instantly taken with the premise of this book, was the way the hero is portrayed she is independent, strong, reliant and manages to manoeuvrer her way through a man’s world and manages to hold her head up high and say “Yes, I can do exactly what I want and will have the respect” At times in Historical romances it can be hard to have the heroine really stand out as herself, there is very few authors who can really make their heroines likeable as well as real and Ms Leigh has definitely made it on to that list of the very few who can create a real heroine who you not only can relate to but who is incredible in her own right. Anyone who knows me, will know how much I love a romance where the character is a self made man/woman and yet another reason why I love this book.
Years before Alex; the Duke of Greyland met the most glorious woman he has ever set eyes on, he gave her his heart and soul. For a Duke who lives by the code of responsibility and the rules that surrounds his station letting anyone peer past his aristocratic cool exterior to the sensual man within wasn’t easily done. So, when she disappears with a large amount of his money he is devastated. Now at the ripe old age; of thirty- eight Alex knows that he really needs to get on with finding himself a wife and procuring the mandatory heir, but when he does he is yet again left all on his tod. As the chit goes and elopes with a cavalry officer and runs of to Gretna Green. Yep, Alex isn’t having the best of times and things become even more complicated for Alex as he comes face to face with his ‘Queen’ in an unarmed gaming hell. What the hell was she doing, and more importantly who exactly is this mysterious woman who stole his heart.
I will admit that it took me a while to warm to Alex, but once you get past the moody egotistical and self-pitying Duke and get to the man warm, sexy, sensitive man behind the mask, he is quite the catch. He thinks that because everyone has so far let him for whatever reason he now believes him to be unlovable, unwanted – which is totally wrong, and something he does soon learn.
To say that Cassandra Blake is shocked to bump into the very man who she stole from but the man she has unfortunately fallen in love with after she dumped him so callously is an understatement. She is now working for her old mentor Martin Hughes in his gaming hell, Hughes on finding out about her and Alex’s brief encounter wants to cash in once again and she has no choice but to go along with his plan. After all this man could put her on that transportation ship or even worse put the noose around her neck as he knows all about her life of crime.
One thing leads to another and as with all historical romances our hero and heroine get their happy ever after, but there is some twists to the tale, there is hurts, lies and harsh truths which must be faced before that happens.
I adore Cassandra, again and again she has found herself in a precarious place, from picking pockets as a child to pulling cons and ending up working the floor and tables in a gaming hell – one that unusually has no name. She has been through some really tough times, she has seen her fare share of troubles but she has taken the bull by it’s horn and battled through to become the mysterious ‘Queen’ I found Cassandra to be highly intelligent, resilient, independent, great at thinking on her feet and even though she has spent a life conning and swindling – but all or a good reason- she isn’t heartless or cold. She feels genuinely bad about all the things she has done especially what he did to Alex. She is a kind woman, maybe not an honest one but we can see past that once you get to know her. And her love and friendship with Alex shows just what kind of warm and caring woman she is. All she wants now is to go on the straight and narrow, she’s had enough of the cons and the criminal aspect of her past hanging over her head.
This is a brilliant introduction to a new-to-me author, I love Ms Leigh’s writing style, it’s fast-paced and flows with absolute ease taking the reader on a whirlwind journey through he criminal underworld of London. The research is spot on the mark, the detailing of everything from the clothes, scenery and setting makes the whole story come to life with dazzling effect. The story is imaginative, sensual, atmospheric, rich with allure and shines with regency glitter. I absolutely loved it.
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