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The Hollis Sisters #2
The Scandal
Twenty-one-year-old Audrina Hollis plans to marry for love even if she has to go through a dozen suitors to find true love. However, her parents have other plans as they secretly arrange her betrothal to the wealthy and distant Dominic Darlington in the spring of 1851. Audrina is heartbroken at the news and leaves New York, believing her future husband will stop searching for her if he can't find her. Unfortunately for her, Dominic is a very persistent man and once he gives his word, he honors it.
Dominic won't stop searching until Audrina becomes Mrs. Darlington. After all, they can always ignore each other after the marriage. Audrina wants a marriage centered around love. Emotionally distant Dominic plans to see Audrina as just his wife, but before he knows it, she is slowly melting his cold heart.
Publisher's Note: This steamy second addition to The Hollis Sisters series can be read as a standalone but will be enjoyed more if read in order. There are elements of power exchange
Dominic won't stop searching until Audrina becomes Mrs. Darlington. After all, they can always ignore each other after the marriage. Audrina wants a marriage centered around love. Emotionally distant Dominic plans to see Audrina as just his wife, but before he knows it, she is slowly melting his cold heart.
Publisher's Note: This steamy second addition to The Hollis Sisters series can be read as a standalone but will be enjoyed more if read in order. There are elements of power exchange
148 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 10, 2023
About the author
Annabelle Marin
27 books21 followersAnnabelle Marin is a twenty-something romantic who lives in sunny California. When she isn't writing she enjoys daydreaming, watching way too much TV, and cuddling with her pets.
Her books are sweet erotic romances with domestic discipline. In her books you can expect: a spoonful of sweetness, a dash of sass, a cup of naughtiness, and an abundance of romance.
You can follow Annabelle on Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads, and Bookbub for exciting updates on upcoming books!
Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/annabelle.ma...
Instagram-https://www.instagram.com/missannabel...
Bookbub-//www.bookbub.com/profile/annabelle-marin
Goodreads-https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Her books are sweet erotic romances with domestic discipline. In her books you can expect: a spoonful of sweetness, a dash of sass, a cup of naughtiness, and an abundance of romance.
You can follow Annabelle on Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads, and Bookbub for exciting updates on upcoming books!
Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/annabelle.ma...
Instagram-https://www.instagram.com/missannabel...
Bookbub-//www.bookbub.com/profile/annabelle-marin
Goodreads-https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 20, 2023
Thanks to BookSprout for a copy of this story, and this is my freely given opinion.
This is the story of the second Hollis sister, Audrina. Audrina is now 21 years old, and had hopes of marrying for love. However after the scandal of her sister, Corrine's wedding to the Brit she was caught inflagrante delicto in the closet with, this choice was harshly taken away by her parents. She finds out that her parents had arranged a marriage for her without having any knowledge of the man, Dominic Darlington, at all.
So she decides that she will take control of her own life the only way she thinks she can - she runs.
Dominic is a focused, domineering, wealthy industrialist, who is persistent in pursuing his goals when he decides on them, in the most direct way possible. He had decided that he wanted Audrina for his wife, when he decided he must wed. Rather than waste time courting her, he contracts their marriage through Mr. Hollis, and when he returns from business ready to proceed with the nuptials he finds his bride has run off. He is now on the chase.
Audrina was intrepid and brave in how she managed to evade discovery for the several months she was on the run, but eventually, Dominic's persistence wins and he finds her and before she has a chance to run again, weds her and forces her return to New York society as Mrs. Darlington, and he is not afraid to show her the consequences of her actions. However, what Dominic is very poor at is opening up and sharing his emotions and communicating with his new wife. While he is assured in his business, and in the bedroom, or disciplining his wife, he is terribly unsure about how to woo his wife. He is forced to turn to his younger sister in law for tips on how to court her and show his regard and this bit of awkwardness definitely is needed to warm the reader up to Dominic, as he is otherwise as open and approachable as a rock.
There is domestic discipline/spanking and some graphic sex in this short novella, so please be aware if that is not something you are into.
3.5 stars out of 5
This is the story of the second Hollis sister, Audrina. Audrina is now 21 years old, and had hopes of marrying for love. However after the scandal of her sister, Corrine's wedding to the Brit she was caught inflagrante delicto in the closet with, this choice was harshly taken away by her parents. She finds out that her parents had arranged a marriage for her without having any knowledge of the man, Dominic Darlington, at all.
So she decides that she will take control of her own life the only way she thinks she can - she runs.
Dominic is a focused, domineering, wealthy industrialist, who is persistent in pursuing his goals when he decides on them, in the most direct way possible. He had decided that he wanted Audrina for his wife, when he decided he must wed. Rather than waste time courting her, he contracts their marriage through Mr. Hollis, and when he returns from business ready to proceed with the nuptials he finds his bride has run off. He is now on the chase.
Audrina was intrepid and brave in how she managed to evade discovery for the several months she was on the run, but eventually, Dominic's persistence wins and he finds her and before she has a chance to run again, weds her and forces her return to New York society as Mrs. Darlington, and he is not afraid to show her the consequences of her actions. However, what Dominic is very poor at is opening up and sharing his emotions and communicating with his new wife. While he is assured in his business, and in the bedroom, or disciplining his wife, he is terribly unsure about how to woo his wife. He is forced to turn to his younger sister in law for tips on how to court her and show his regard and this bit of awkwardness definitely is needed to warm the reader up to Dominic, as he is otherwise as open and approachable as a rock.
There is domestic discipline/spanking and some graphic sex in this short novella, so please be aware if that is not something you are into.
3.5 stars out of 5
March 11, 2023
CHASING HIS RUNAWAY FIANCE
The story is the second in the Hollis Sisters series and takes place in the early 1850s. The Hollis family lives in New York and is a well-to-do family. After the scandal with Corrine and Nicholas, Mr. Hollis decides to make an arranged marriage for his second daughter, twenty-one-year-old Audrina. Rather than her father informing her that he had made an arranged married, she overhears her fate. When she learns of the secret plans—she makes plans of her own, running away. What a shock when Dominic Darlington returns from abroad to discover that his fiancée has run away and so far hasn’t been found.
“Rest assured Mr. and Mrs. Hollis. I will find your daughter and I will marry her.”
He will hire private investigators, and follow leads searching for her himself. He had decided when he finds her, he won’t wait for a wedding, they will marry immediately. What a shock when he discovers her in Pennsylvania—and how far she has gone to disguise herself. Dominic will punish her for her behavior and their marriage will be rocky for months. The one thing he doesn’t do is force himself on her—he will let time and her dictate when they move their marriage forward.
There is plenty of angst and issues between Dominic and Audrina and they both have their faults. I think she at times is petty, and he is a bit harsh in his punishments. I really don’t see the reality of going to a young maiden (Helene) who hasn’t even come out in society, having been very sheltered, and getting her opinion on personal things—as takes place in this story. At least by the end, the marriage of these two is on more solid ground. Several discipline scenes are intense in nature. I wish I could say that there was strong chemistry between the characters, but it was hot and cold between them. Even the epilogue didn’t give you a feeling of closure.
The story is the second in the Hollis Sisters series and takes place in the early 1850s. The Hollis family lives in New York and is a well-to-do family. After the scandal with Corrine and Nicholas, Mr. Hollis decides to make an arranged marriage for his second daughter, twenty-one-year-old Audrina. Rather than her father informing her that he had made an arranged married, she overhears her fate. When she learns of the secret plans—she makes plans of her own, running away. What a shock when Dominic Darlington returns from abroad to discover that his fiancée has run away and so far hasn’t been found.
“Rest assured Mr. and Mrs. Hollis. I will find your daughter and I will marry her.”
He will hire private investigators, and follow leads searching for her himself. He had decided when he finds her, he won’t wait for a wedding, they will marry immediately. What a shock when he discovers her in Pennsylvania—and how far she has gone to disguise herself. Dominic will punish her for her behavior and their marriage will be rocky for months. The one thing he doesn’t do is force himself on her—he will let time and her dictate when they move their marriage forward.
There is plenty of angst and issues between Dominic and Audrina and they both have their faults. I think she at times is petty, and he is a bit harsh in his punishments. I really don’t see the reality of going to a young maiden (Helene) who hasn’t even come out in society, having been very sheltered, and getting her opinion on personal things—as takes place in this story. At least by the end, the marriage of these two is on more solid ground. Several discipline scenes are intense in nature. I wish I could say that there was strong chemistry between the characters, but it was hot and cold between them. Even the epilogue didn’t give you a feeling of closure.
March 18, 2023
Dominic and Audrina were an arranged marriage . I enjoyed reading how their love grew. In the 1800's men were in charge . When Audrina started to enjoy it I thought alright its a few shades of gray. I thought Dominic to be very caring after he got past feeling ashamed to show it because he was a man. I loved how the characters interacted with each other and family members . It brought me faith that no matter what your problems are together you can work them out if you have love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2023
When Adrina Hollis find out her parents or making an arranged marriage for her she is incensed and packs her bags grabs all her jewelry and fleas to a town outside of Philadelphia, where she is living as a boy name Andy and working for the local Mercantile just waiting for time to pass this can you do to blow over so she can go back home and marry someone she falls in love with. Unfortunately this is one of the places her intended goes to look for her and when he spots young Andy he gets a strange feeling about the young chap. She knows who he is in despite trying to avoid him he finds her out but will she fall in love with him and consent to the arranged marriage? I thought this book was pretty good and I loved Andy and her indelible spirit this is a book I would definitely recommend because I know most of my friends would love this book. It wasn’t my favorite but not the worst I’ve ever read by far. A solid four star read. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 18, 2023
When her parents promise her hand in marriage to Dominic Darlington, a wealthy man she’s never met, Audrina Hollis is infuriated. Rather than sit tamely by waiting for her fiancé to show up and claim her, Audrina flees her home, trading her sheltered, pampered lifestyle for a low-paying, physically demanding job at a feed store.
To ensure the despised Dominic will be unable to find her, Audrina cuts off her hair and poses as a boy. She figures she’ll give Dominic six months to lose interest in a marriage arrangement with such a troublesome bride, then return home. She figures without Dominic’s determination to find her, marry her and bring her to heel.
This is a lively historical romance set in the 1850s that features a spirited heroine and a guarded hero who’s in for a few surprises along the way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
To ensure the despised Dominic will be unable to find her, Audrina cuts off her hair and poses as a boy. She figures she’ll give Dominic six months to lose interest in a marriage arrangement with such a troublesome bride, then return home. She figures without Dominic’s determination to find her, marry her and bring her to heel.
This is a lively historical romance set in the 1850s that features a spirited heroine and a guarded hero who’s in for a few surprises along the way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2023
Audrina is disheartened when she is told she will be wed to Dominic, a man she has only met in passing. Knowing refusal is futile, she puts paid to her desire not to do so and runs. But she didn't count on Dom finding her and dragging her back home. How will they reconcile themselves to their fate as a married couple if they can't get past their anger?
Sometimes sweet together, always up for verbal sparring, the two seek advice from the least likely source to make their way to each other. Steamy times included, sometimes after a painful bottom-warming for 'Drina. I couldn't put it down twas so good. I just couldn't wait to see what they'd get themselves into next. Never a disappointing moment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sometimes sweet together, always up for verbal sparring, the two seek advice from the least likely source to make their way to each other. Steamy times included, sometimes after a painful bottom-warming for 'Drina. I couldn't put it down twas so good. I just couldn't wait to see what they'd get themselves into next. Never a disappointing moment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2023
Having met Miss Audrian Hollis through her sister, Corinne, I figured she may make an appearance somewhere later. I was very delighted when her story came up and I knew I had to read it.
I enjoyed how the author portrayed Audrian- free spirited and knows just what she wants- she was not going to settle for less.
I was surprised to learn that Dominic had made an earlier appearance but I love how the author did not portray him until he was ready to shine.
I love the cat and mouse game between the duo-it helps to deepen the suspense in the book.
I would have loved for Corinne to at least feature in this book not just the occasional mention.
If you love historical romance, you will enjoy this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed how the author portrayed Audrian- free spirited and knows just what she wants- she was not going to settle for less.
I was surprised to learn that Dominic had made an earlier appearance but I love how the author did not portray him until he was ready to shine.
I love the cat and mouse game between the duo-it helps to deepen the suspense in the book.
I would have loved for Corinne to at least feature in this book not just the occasional mention.
If you love historical romance, you will enjoy this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2023
Audrina was informed by her mother that she and her father had arranged her marriage. Sight unseen to a Mr Darlington. When Mr Darlington arrived at the Hollis home with an engagement ring, he was informed that his fiancé ran away. Audrina’s plan was to hide out until Dominic Darlington got tired and found someone else, she figured it take six months. You know about the best plans of mice and men? Well it didn’t go her way either. These two had great chemistry even when she hated him, they were a hot couple. They were sort of kinky too, and Dom a bit domineering. I really enjoyed this story, giving it five stars and highly recommend it.
January 14, 2023
Audrina was my kind of gal.
The scandal caused by her older sister will cause problems for Audrina. Her parents decide to betroth her to a man she does not know and expects her to just go along with it. That is not what happens and she runs. Dominic does not take kindly to this and sets out to find her. My heart went out to Audrina this was not fair but I so liked the fact she was one feisty number. I did not warm up to Dominic until close to the end of the book. It is a steamy little number with great banter between Audrina, Dominic, and little sister Helene. This was a very entertaining book. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
The scandal caused by her older sister will cause problems for Audrina. Her parents decide to betroth her to a man she does not know and expects her to just go along with it. That is not what happens and she runs. Dominic does not take kindly to this and sets out to find her. My heart went out to Audrina this was not fair but I so liked the fact she was one feisty number. I did not warm up to Dominic until close to the end of the book. It is a steamy little number with great banter between Audrina, Dominic, and little sister Helene. This was a very entertaining book. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
January 27, 2023
Historical novels are my favorite genre but that doesn't mean every story gets 5 stars. I give this story 3.5*.
I found both characters unbelievable at first. Audrina was irresponsible and slightly spoiled and Dominic was quickly portrayed in my eyes as a man who is dominant and has no feeling. Also implausible with on the one hand the tendency to punish his bride by spanking and on the other hand not claiming her as his wife but letting that run its course until 4 months into their marriage.
A story that I read in a few hours and helped me to get through an evening pleasantly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found both characters unbelievable at first. Audrina was irresponsible and slightly spoiled and Dominic was quickly portrayed in my eyes as a man who is dominant and has no feeling. Also implausible with on the one hand the tendency to punish his bride by spanking and on the other hand not claiming her as his wife but letting that run its course until 4 months into their marriage.
A story that I read in a few hours and helped me to get through an evening pleasantly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2023
Audrina Hollis had plans to marry for love but after the scandal of her older sister, her parents thought it prudent to arrange a marriage for her - to a man she had never met. Devastated, Audrina runs away, never suspecting that her betrothed, Dominic Darlington would be so persistent in finding his runaway bride. I loved this book! Audrina and Dominic have this stubborn trait that leads to cold silence but I like how vulnerable Dominic makes himself to ask for help. All in all, a fab read. I love this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2023
I enjoyed this sweet historic romance. Audrina was a sweet, independent lead. Her decisions could be a little questionable at time, but her determination made up for it. Dominic could be a bit closed off at times, but the author did a good job of slowly revealing his character. The two were oil and water in the beginning, but by the end they worked really well together. The story flowed well with a mix of romance and just a bit of drama thrown in to keep things interesting. I enjoyed this second book and look forward to the final book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2023
Audrian was horrified to find that her parents had organised her marriage to a man she had never met. (Her parents weren't taking any risks after her older sister's scandalous behaviour). Audrian runs away disguising herself as a man. But Dominic Darlington has no intention of losing his fiancé and he goes searching for her. Can they have a good marriage or will it be between two people who can't stand each other.
I enjoyed this book and I look forward to book 3 about the third sister.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this book and I look forward to book 3 about the third sister.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2023
I love a good historical romance and this one was great! This second installment in the Hollis sisters, books is wonderful.
You would think when Dominic was stood up by Audrina, he would have given up and picked a new bride, but Dominic was determined to find his wayward fiancé and have her for his bride.
This was a wonderful book. I always love this author’s historical romances. Can’t wait for the next installment.
You would think when Dominic was stood up by Audrina, he would have given up and picked a new bride, but Dominic was determined to find his wayward fiancé and have her for his bride.
This was a wonderful book. I always love this author’s historical romances. Can’t wait for the next installment.
January 29, 2023
First story by the author.
Definitely liked the character builds. Right for the era!
Audrina doesn't want the marriage to Dominic. She doesn't know him. Has not met him! So, she runs!
For the businessman who doesn't believe in love, but heirs, he's determined to find her!
What happens next, well, you will see! Sometimes naughty pays a price.
Great dialogue. Much steam!
Definitely liked the character builds. Right for the era!
Audrina doesn't want the marriage to Dominic. She doesn't know him. Has not met him! So, she runs!
For the businessman who doesn't believe in love, but heirs, he's determined to find her!
What happens next, well, you will see! Sometimes naughty pays a price.
Great dialogue. Much steam!
February 9, 2023
The scandal is a charming book by Annabelle Marin, I really loved the storyline of runaway bride and a groom who is determined to go to any length to get her back, which was so sweet. What I didn't really like was the domestic discipline, but love is crazy.
When Audrina was told by her mother that a marriage has been arranged for her to a complete stranger she decided to run away from home and portray herself as a boy. Unknown to her the man she was to marry Dominic did not take well to losing, so he made it a point to use his money until he found her after three months when she was practically thrown in his lap for a discipliing thrashing.
For a time Audrina was determined to resist him because of the pain she endured at his hand... Until she could not resist him anymore
The characters were strong and interesting, I really loved how Audrina was able to look past everything and embrace her marriage.
I would recommend this book to someone looking for a romantic book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Audrina was told by her mother that a marriage has been arranged for her to a complete stranger she decided to run away from home and portray herself as a boy. Unknown to her the man she was to marry Dominic did not take well to losing, so he made it a point to use his money until he found her after three months when she was practically thrown in his lap for a discipliing thrashing.
For a time Audrina was determined to resist him because of the pain she endured at his hand... Until she could not resist him anymore
The characters were strong and interesting, I really loved how Audrina was able to look past everything and embrace her marriage.
I would recommend this book to someone looking for a romantic book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2023
It was a good book, I enjoyed reading it. The plot really interested me, I enjoyed the concept and the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2023
It’s a good book. I enjoyed it and would recommend it. Would like to read more books by the author Annabelle Marin.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews