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Wicked Wallflowers #1
The Hellion
USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell’s Wicked Wallflowers series burns hot as two rivals meet in the flesh and feel the heat…
Adair Thorne has just watched his gaming-hell dream disappear into a blaze of fire and ash, and he’s certain that his competitors, the Killorans, are behind it. His fury and passion burn even hotter when he meets Cleopatra Killoran, a tart-mouthed vixen who mocks him at every turn. If she were anyone else but the enemy, she’d ignite a desire in him that would be impossible to control.
No one can make Cleopatra do anything. That said, she’ll do whatever it takes to protect her siblings―even if that means being sponsored by their rivals for a season in order to land a noble husband. But she will not allow her head to be turned by the infuriating and darkly handsome Adair Thorne.
There’s only one thing that threatens the rules of the game: Cleopatra’s secret. It could unravel the families’ tenuous truce and shatter the unpredictably sinful romance mounting between the hellion…and a scoundrel who could pass for the devil himself.
Adair Thorne has just watched his gaming-hell dream disappear into a blaze of fire and ash, and he’s certain that his competitors, the Killorans, are behind it. His fury and passion burn even hotter when he meets Cleopatra Killoran, a tart-mouthed vixen who mocks him at every turn. If she were anyone else but the enemy, she’d ignite a desire in him that would be impossible to control.
No one can make Cleopatra do anything. That said, she’ll do whatever it takes to protect her siblings―even if that means being sponsored by their rivals for a season in order to land a noble husband. But she will not allow her head to be turned by the infuriating and darkly handsome Adair Thorne.
There’s only one thing that threatens the rules of the game: Cleopatra’s secret. It could unravel the families’ tenuous truce and shatter the unpredictably sinful romance mounting between the hellion…and a scoundrel who could pass for the devil himself.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2018
3450 people are currently reading
3617 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
135 books2,533 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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dnf
March 24, 2018DNF @16%
I decided not to leave a rating on this because I was not very far, and the writing seemed engaging. If you are new to Caldwell, do not start here. This is apparently a spinoff from another series. Despite it being a first in series, there were events and characters with back stories that left me confused and lost. If I ever get to those stories, I may come back and finish this. Part of the problem is that the world built here is not easy to fall into. It is a far fetched world with a rags to riches theme that would take quite a bit of selling for me to buy into, so I am not convinced it would be worth it.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
I decided not to leave a rating on this because I was not very far, and the writing seemed engaging. If you are new to Caldwell, do not start here. This is apparently a spinoff from another series. Despite it being a first in series, there were events and characters with back stories that left me confused and lost. If I ever get to those stories, I may come back and finish this. Part of the problem is that the world built here is not easy to fall into. It is a far fetched world with a rags to riches theme that would take quite a bit of selling for me to buy into, so I am not convinced it would be worth it.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
Want to read
March 5, 2021DNF at 30%. We're just dropped into this story and I was so confused over who was who and what was going on. There were too many characters with established relationships already and I just couldn't keep up. I listened to the audiobook and I also wasn't the biggest fan of the narrator, so I'm putting it down for now. If I pick it back up, I'll definitely read it physically.
February 6, 2018
I received this ARC from NetGalley and voluntarily chose to write a review.
This is the first book in a series, but it didn't feel like it. It felt as if I was reading a book in the middle of a series. I'll confess it was hard to orient myself because there are so many characters and there's so much history between the two rival families. I was lost in the beginning and it took me a while to get a strong grasp on who was who. Even after I was able to clearly put together the families and the husbands and wives, I started getting even more confused as Penelope later on talked about her family. It kind of felt like an information overload and an advertisement to read about Penelope's siblings' stories.
The story itself was a little slow, but I did like Cleopatra and Adair together. I found the whole sacrifice-for-my-sisters thing a little tiring and repetitive. The distrust between the hero and heroine and how that slowly transformed into love and trust was well-written and I enjoyed the journey getting there. Like I said, I liked the couple, but I was not wholly entranced with the plot itself nor did I really care so much about the families. I am curious about the other Killorans though and I suspect that .
I absolutely love the cover! It's clean, pretty and simple. The model looks exactly like Cleopatra.
Finally, I really wish the author had written an epilogue!
This is the first book in a series, but it didn't feel like it. It felt as if I was reading a book in the middle of a series. I'll confess it was hard to orient myself because there are so many characters and there's so much history between the two rival families. I was lost in the beginning and it took me a while to get a strong grasp on who was who. Even after I was able to clearly put together the families and the husbands and wives, I started getting even more confused as Penelope later on talked about her family. It kind of felt like an information overload and an advertisement to read about Penelope's siblings' stories.
The story itself was a little slow, but I did like Cleopatra and Adair together. I found the whole sacrifice-for-my-sisters thing a little tiring and repetitive. The distrust between the hero and heroine and how that slowly transformed into love and trust was well-written and I enjoyed the journey getting there. Like I said, I liked the couple, but I was not wholly entranced with the plot itself nor did I really care so much about the families. I am curious about the other Killorans though and I suspect that .
I absolutely love the cover! It's clean, pretty and simple. The model looks exactly like Cleopatra.
Finally, I really wish the author had written an epilogue!
February 17, 2018
I knew I would love this book when I saw it on Netgally. And I was so right! This book is the beginning of an offshoot series from Christi Caldwell’s Sinful Brides series.
Our hero has clawed his way up from the streets of London with his ‘brothers.’ Although not related by blood they worked together to become successful. Now all of his brothers have married into the aristocracy and Adair just wants to keep running his gaming hell. But then the fire happened. Now our hero is forced to help the sister of his enemy find a husband among the aristocracy in need of her wealth.
Our heroine doesn’t actually want to land a husband among the hated elite. But, her brother knows that a title will keep her safe. Will the members of the ton look past her parentage, background, and even glasses to see what a gem she is? Even if she comes with a substantial dowery?
Excellent romance with great characters. 😊
Available from Amazon April 3, 2018.
Our hero has clawed his way up from the streets of London with his ‘brothers.’ Although not related by blood they worked together to become successful. Now all of his brothers have married into the aristocracy and Adair just wants to keep running his gaming hell. But then the fire happened. Now our hero is forced to help the sister of his enemy find a husband among the aristocracy in need of her wealth.
Our heroine doesn’t actually want to land a husband among the hated elite. But, her brother knows that a title will keep her safe. Will the members of the ton look past her parentage, background, and even glasses to see what a gem she is? Even if she comes with a substantial dowery?
Excellent romance with great characters. 😊
Available from Amazon April 3, 2018.
April 4, 2018
A New Series Begins
Christi Caldwell can tell a story like no other. As her Regency universe expands upon itself, she has taken her readers from the glittering world of the Ton with its incessant concern with propriety and scandal to Upper Ten Thousand house parties where ruin lurks in the next hallway to the agonies of wounded warriors returning home to deal with shattered bodies and shattered minds. But this multifaceted author does not stop there, no, Caldwell has ventured to take us on an imagined journey into the underbelly of London.
In the past couple of years, she has introduced us to a group of unlettered, unconnected and uncouth individuals and revealed their humanity and dignity. She has done the heretofore impossible and written brilliant love stories pairing these scarred individuals with the pristine, untouchable to them members of the Ton.
First there was the beautiful rogue and duke's heir, Robert and the horrifically scarred duke's bastard, Helena. Unlikely match up. Then a Tidemore virgin, Penelope with the hardened, gruff and silent Ryker Black. What next? The poor ruined Diamond of the First Waters, Diana with Niall Marksman. Followed by another duke's daughter, Evelina who, after a bit of comical subterfuge, marries her childhood friend and former pickpocket, Calum Dabney. Oh my!
As we enter this story, the Hell and Sin Club is no more. From as early as The Scandalous Seasons series, the denizens of Christi Caldwell's universe, #CaldWorld, if you will, have cavorted and gambled away fortunes in this St. Giles establishment.
In THE SINFUL BRIDES series, we became intimately acquainted with the men and women responsible for this establishment. But now, the Hell and Sin Club is gone, lost in a, fitting to its name, fiery conflagration.
The Wicked Wallflowers!
"The beginning of everything … from drawing one’s first breath, to getting on after tragedy, to finding a new family or building a new home was work. It was uncertainty and fear and the unknown."
Thus a new chapter in this story-forged in fire, so to speak, a new series begins, and aren't we just the lucky ones?
Adair Thorne, the final Hell and Sin Club brother, finds his own HEA with the tart-tongued Cleopatra Killoran. As he begins the process of resurrecting the club Phoenix-like from the ashes of its destruction, he also reluctantly grows to know and respect his pint-sized nemesis.
The conflict between the main characters was fun to read. I enjoyed the acidic banter and Cleopatra's stalwart personality. The theme of honor and keeping one's commitments was prevalent throughout.
I won't get into the specifics here, but anyone who has read THE LADY'S GUARD will be aware that certain commitments were made on the part of the Hell and Sin family in exchange for lifesaving information from the Killoran family. This promise extracted is the basis of the story.
The story devolves at one point into the feel of a St. Giles/Seven Dials Romeo and Juliet with the Hell and Sin brothers versus the Killorans as a Cockney-infused Montagues and Capulets.
The shadow of the evil Dickensian villain, Mac Diggory, continues to dog the protagonists of this story. Although long dead, he continues to cast a malevolent presence in the lives of our characters.
Sartorial Transformation Achieved
"Draped in sapphire silk, with understated butterfly combs in her black curls, Black’s wife epitomized wealth, rank, and power." Brava!!! Lady Penelope Chatham has escaped the scourge of Mama Tidemore's bad taste in attire for her daughters!
Juicy Unveilings
So many new details about Broderick Killoran are slowly being revealed. His love of all things Shakespearean as evidenced by the names he personally gifted to his three "sisters of his heart" - Cleopatra, Ophelia and Gertrude being one of the most interesting and telling.
What ho... Broderick's cultured tones are not an affect of imitating the denizens of the Ton after all. He arrived on the streets of the Seven Dials fully formed - a gentleman amongst the rabble? Oh do tell us more, Ms. Caldwell.
Hmm... methinks he may be a little lost lord of the Ton. I can't wait for his story!
Conclusion
I loved everything about this story. The code switching amongst the characters was true to their stations and added flavor to the telling of the story.
I can't wait for the next installment!
I requested and received an ARC from NetGalley of this book. My review reflects my honest opinion of the material.
Christi Caldwell can tell a story like no other. As her Regency universe expands upon itself, she has taken her readers from the glittering world of the Ton with its incessant concern with propriety and scandal to Upper Ten Thousand house parties where ruin lurks in the next hallway to the agonies of wounded warriors returning home to deal with shattered bodies and shattered minds. But this multifaceted author does not stop there, no, Caldwell has ventured to take us on an imagined journey into the underbelly of London.
In the past couple of years, she has introduced us to a group of unlettered, unconnected and uncouth individuals and revealed their humanity and dignity. She has done the heretofore impossible and written brilliant love stories pairing these scarred individuals with the pristine, untouchable to them members of the Ton.
First there was the beautiful rogue and duke's heir, Robert and the horrifically scarred duke's bastard, Helena. Unlikely match up. Then a Tidemore virgin, Penelope with the hardened, gruff and silent Ryker Black. What next? The poor ruined Diamond of the First Waters, Diana with Niall Marksman. Followed by another duke's daughter, Evelina who, after a bit of comical subterfuge, marries her childhood friend and former pickpocket, Calum Dabney. Oh my!
As we enter this story, the Hell and Sin Club is no more. From as early as The Scandalous Seasons series, the denizens of Christi Caldwell's universe, #CaldWorld, if you will, have cavorted and gambled away fortunes in this St. Giles establishment.
In THE SINFUL BRIDES series, we became intimately acquainted with the men and women responsible for this establishment. But now, the Hell and Sin Club is gone, lost in a, fitting to its name, fiery conflagration.
The Wicked Wallflowers!
"The beginning of everything … from drawing one’s first breath, to getting on after tragedy, to finding a new family or building a new home was work. It was uncertainty and fear and the unknown."
Thus a new chapter in this story-forged in fire, so to speak, a new series begins, and aren't we just the lucky ones?
Adair Thorne, the final Hell and Sin Club brother, finds his own HEA with the tart-tongued Cleopatra Killoran. As he begins the process of resurrecting the club Phoenix-like from the ashes of its destruction, he also reluctantly grows to know and respect his pint-sized nemesis.
The conflict between the main characters was fun to read. I enjoyed the acidic banter and Cleopatra's stalwart personality. The theme of honor and keeping one's commitments was prevalent throughout.
I won't get into the specifics here, but anyone who has read THE LADY'S GUARD will be aware that certain commitments were made on the part of the Hell and Sin family in exchange for lifesaving information from the Killoran family. This promise extracted is the basis of the story.
The story devolves at one point into the feel of a St. Giles/Seven Dials Romeo and Juliet with the Hell and Sin brothers versus the Killorans as a Cockney-infused Montagues and Capulets.
The shadow of the evil Dickensian villain, Mac Diggory, continues to dog the protagonists of this story. Although long dead, he continues to cast a malevolent presence in the lives of our characters.
Sartorial Transformation Achieved
"Draped in sapphire silk, with understated butterfly combs in her black curls, Black’s wife epitomized wealth, rank, and power." Brava!!! Lady Penelope Chatham has escaped the scourge of Mama Tidemore's bad taste in attire for her daughters!
Juicy Unveilings
So many new details about Broderick Killoran are slowly being revealed. His love of all things Shakespearean as evidenced by the names he personally gifted to his three "sisters of his heart" - Cleopatra, Ophelia and Gertrude being one of the most interesting and telling.
What ho... Broderick's cultured tones are not an affect of imitating the denizens of the Ton after all. He arrived on the streets of the Seven Dials fully formed - a gentleman amongst the rabble? Oh do tell us more, Ms. Caldwell.
Hmm... methinks he may be a little lost lord of the Ton. I can't wait for his story!
Conclusion
I loved everything about this story. The code switching amongst the characters was true to their stations and added flavor to the telling of the story.
I can't wait for the next installment!
I requested and received an ARC from NetGalley of this book. My review reflects my honest opinion of the material.
August 2, 2019
3.5/5 stars.
Christi Caldwell really to write better stand-alone's. I had read some of the books that tie in with the characters in this book, and still I was lost at some points. This is the first in a new series however it has way too much background from The Rogue's Wager and series.
Overall enjoyed this book, review coming soon.
Christi Caldwell really to write better stand-alone's. I had read some of the books that tie in with the characters in this book, and still I was lost at some points. This is the first in a new series however it has way too much background from The Rogue's Wager and series.
Overall enjoyed this book, review coming soon.
May 4, 2019
He glanced up from his task, and that slight movement sent a dark lock tumbling over his brow, lending him a boyish look. “Cleopatra Killoran, I’d wager there isn’t a thing you don’t know how to do.”
And just like that, Cleopatra fell in love. Hopelessly, helplessly, she lost her heart to Adair.
I know this is listed as #1 in the Wicked Wallflowers series, but it did not read that way for me. Adair's brothers are married, there is a lot of talk about the villain that they finally vanquished, and the deal Adair's family made with Cleopatra's brother happened in a previous book. I was kind of lost as to who was who and what had happened, I also was missing caring about a lot of people.
The second half was better than the first for me, everyone gets kind of cleared out so the focus can be on Adair and Cleo. Cleo annoyed the heck out of me with all her running, her go to move when she gets overwhelmed is just to take off and she definitely does it. Adair was a little blah, I've read his character many many many many times. They seemed nice together but didn't trip any triggers for me.
I did like the author's writing and flow, I think not having read the previous series really hurt me here; I'll probably put them on the tbr.
Adair dropped his brow to hers. “Marry me."
We did get this moment, I always enjoy a lovely brow to brow moment :)
And just like that, Cleopatra fell in love. Hopelessly, helplessly, she lost her heart to Adair.
I know this is listed as #1 in the Wicked Wallflowers series, but it did not read that way for me. Adair's brothers are married, there is a lot of talk about the villain that they finally vanquished, and the deal Adair's family made with Cleopatra's brother happened in a previous book. I was kind of lost as to who was who and what had happened, I also was missing caring about a lot of people.
The second half was better than the first for me, everyone gets kind of cleared out so the focus can be on Adair and Cleo. Cleo annoyed the heck out of me with all her running, her go to move when she gets overwhelmed is just to take off and she definitely does it. Adair was a little blah, I've read his character many many many many times. They seemed nice together but didn't trip any triggers for me.
I did like the author's writing and flow, I think not having read the previous series really hurt me here; I'll probably put them on the tbr.
Adair dropped his brow to hers. “Marry me."
We did get this moment, I always enjoy a lovely brow to brow moment :)
April 1, 2018
I want to start this review by stating that I requested this book because it was touted as the first book in a new series. I would disagree - I did not read the previous Sinful Brides series, but every single person in this book (save one very minor character) is a character from that series - the hero in this book is a "brother" to the previous series heroes and the heroine is the "sister" to the villain in that series. I am all about authors bringing back previous characters for cameos - but this was more like a continuation of that series, so many references are made to prior events that I really didn't understand the significance of in this book - that said, it is not a bad book - but if you haven't read Sinful Brides, be prepared to feel a little lost.
Adair Thorne has lost everything to fire twice, first his family when he was a boy and now as he watches the Hell and Sin Club burn. He is filled with rage, the club is everything to him and now it is gone and he knows exactly who is to blame - the Killoran Family. He and his brothers had formed a truce with them and even promised to sponsor one of his sisters for the season - but after this, there is no way they will honor that promise.
Adair and his brothers will rebuild, but first they need to deal with Broderick Killoran. Broderick, his guard and his sister Cleopatra are summoned for a meeting. Thinking it is make arrangements for the season, they willing attend. They are floored that they are being accused of arson and vehemently deny any part in the fire and without proof to back up their accusations, Broderick demands they honor the agreement. Ryker's wife concurs and plans are made.
Cleopatra aka Cleo, thinks Broderick's dream of having his sisters marry nobility is stupid, but rather than make one of her sisters sacrifice themselves, she insists on being the one sent.
Adair is assigned to "watch" her and doesn't trust her at all. This is reiterated over and over and over. Finally he begins to lighten up a bit and the two form a friendship of sorts - she sees the plans for the new club and offers suggestions, which at first he scoffs at, but then begins to see the merits of her suggestions.
When her season starts, she is not interested in any of the Lords paraded before her and she is largely ignored. Adair is the only bright spot in any of the events she attends. She makes a wager with him and they end up alone in the host's billiard room, they are kissing when Adair hears someone approaching, he goes out the window and the door opens before she can follow him. This is when she meets the Marquess of Landon. He flirts with her and then asks her to dance with him. She is a bit disappointed, she has been waiting to dance for weeks and was hoping Adair would be her first dance. Adair watches from the side of the dance floor and is filled with jealousy.
Later, they meet in his office and dance and then he takes her to the club. They make love and she knows she loves him. She feels the need to honest with him and shares a secret that could destroy any hope of a HEA. Adair is stunned by her revelation and she flees.
Belatedly, he comes to his senses and goes after her, but she is gone. He returns home to find out that she is there and has a caller, Lord Landon. He finds out that Landon asked her to marry him and tells her he loves her and asks her to marry him instead, but before she can answer, Ryder comes in and has information that obliterates any hope of them being together.
This was a well written book, but the first two-thirds of the story dragged and was repetitious, but once she actually starts her "season" the story takes off and is fantastic. It also ends a little abruptly with no setup for the next book in the series - which is another reason this felt more like an installment of the Sinful Brides instead of new series. The love scenes were on the warm side, the ending was dramatic and I really believed the love between Adair and Cleopatra. I would say if you read the Sinful Brides, you will definitely want to read this book and will enjoy it. But speaking for those readers who haven't read that series, this was not the easiest book to follow, it felt like I was reading a book in the middle of a series and didn't know the characters.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an uncorrected eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
Adair Thorne has lost everything to fire twice, first his family when he was a boy and now as he watches the Hell and Sin Club burn. He is filled with rage, the club is everything to him and now it is gone and he knows exactly who is to blame - the Killoran Family. He and his brothers had formed a truce with them and even promised to sponsor one of his sisters for the season - but after this, there is no way they will honor that promise.
Adair and his brothers will rebuild, but first they need to deal with Broderick Killoran. Broderick, his guard and his sister Cleopatra are summoned for a meeting. Thinking it is make arrangements for the season, they willing attend. They are floored that they are being accused of arson and vehemently deny any part in the fire and without proof to back up their accusations, Broderick demands they honor the agreement. Ryker's wife concurs and plans are made.
Cleopatra aka Cleo, thinks Broderick's dream of having his sisters marry nobility is stupid, but rather than make one of her sisters sacrifice themselves, she insists on being the one sent.
Adair is assigned to "watch" her and doesn't trust her at all. This is reiterated over and over and over. Finally he begins to lighten up a bit and the two form a friendship of sorts - she sees the plans for the new club and offers suggestions, which at first he scoffs at, but then begins to see the merits of her suggestions.
When her season starts, she is not interested in any of the Lords paraded before her and she is largely ignored. Adair is the only bright spot in any of the events she attends. She makes a wager with him and they end up alone in the host's billiard room, they are kissing when Adair hears someone approaching, he goes out the window and the door opens before she can follow him. This is when she meets the Marquess of Landon. He flirts with her and then asks her to dance with him. She is a bit disappointed, she has been waiting to dance for weeks and was hoping Adair would be her first dance. Adair watches from the side of the dance floor and is filled with jealousy.
Later, they meet in his office and dance and then he takes her to the club. They make love and she knows she loves him. She feels the need to honest with him and shares a secret that could destroy any hope of a HEA. Adair is stunned by her revelation and she flees.
Belatedly, he comes to his senses and goes after her, but she is gone. He returns home to find out that she is there and has a caller, Lord Landon. He finds out that Landon asked her to marry him and tells her he loves her and asks her to marry him instead, but before she can answer, Ryder comes in and has information that obliterates any hope of them being together.
This was a well written book, but the first two-thirds of the story dragged and was repetitious, but once she actually starts her "season" the story takes off and is fantastic. It also ends a little abruptly with no setup for the next book in the series - which is another reason this felt more like an installment of the Sinful Brides instead of new series. The love scenes were on the warm side, the ending was dramatic and I really believed the love between Adair and Cleopatra. I would say if you read the Sinful Brides, you will definitely want to read this book and will enjoy it. But speaking for those readers who haven't read that series, this was not the easiest book to follow, it felt like I was reading a book in the middle of a series and didn't know the characters.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an uncorrected eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
February 1, 2018
I was so excited to get to read my first Christi Caldwell book and after reading the blurb I thought that this would be just up my street but unfortunately for me this was nothing like I was expecting. I really had high hopes for this book but what I found was that it was very hard and slow to get into with too many characters in the first few chapters that caused me a lot of confusion. As this is the first in a series it felt like that I was missing out on something and that I'd started in the middle of a series that are not standalone.
I did keep reading thinking that maybe as im new to this author's writing style that it would get better and it did, but I was around halfway through the book before I was comfortable with what I was reading. The story was ok in the sense that I wanted to finish it to see what happened but it was far from the excitement that the title lead me to believe would be contained within the story. I didn't ever really feel a connection to either of the main characters of Adair Thorne and Cleopatra Killoran. In fact they drove me nuts with their sniping and distrust of each other, to go from being so venomous toward each other to then suddenly change to be so intensely over protective of each other in no time at all was utterly ridiculous. I'm a big fan of enemies to lovers but this just didn't tick the boxes for me at all.
I do hope to try another book by this author in the future as every book can't be a big hit and suit everyone ones tastes.
I did keep reading thinking that maybe as im new to this author's writing style that it would get better and it did, but I was around halfway through the book before I was comfortable with what I was reading. The story was ok in the sense that I wanted to finish it to see what happened but it was far from the excitement that the title lead me to believe would be contained within the story. I didn't ever really feel a connection to either of the main characters of Adair Thorne and Cleopatra Killoran. In fact they drove me nuts with their sniping and distrust of each other, to go from being so venomous toward each other to then suddenly change to be so intensely over protective of each other in no time at all was utterly ridiculous. I'm a big fan of enemies to lovers but this just didn't tick the boxes for me at all.
I do hope to try another book by this author in the future as every book can't be a big hit and suit everyone ones tastes.
December 4, 2018
4 stars - Historical Romance
August 2, 2018
Series: Wicked Wallflowers #1
Publication Date: 4/3/18
I love Christi Caldwell’s writing and I thoroughly enjoyed this book. That said, I really believe that this book should have been the final book in the Sinful Brides series rather than the first book in the Wicked Wallflowers series. It wraps up all of the loose ends for the previous series – including the final unmarried brother and it introduces the characters for the Wicked Wallflowers series. The characters from the Sinful Brides are heavily (almost exclusively) featured in this book – they are dynamic, interesting and you will quickly care about all of them. I believe the characters from the Wicked Wallflowers series will quickly become just as endearing.
Both of the series feature rivals on the streets of St. Giles. They are bitter enemies, but they are victims of the same monster – Diggory. The men from the Sinful Brides series managed to escape from Diggory’s control, but Diggory was a hateful and dirty fighter and he declared war on Ryder Black and his ‘family’. The ladies featured in the Wicked Wallflowers weren’t lucky enough to escape Diggory’s cruelty – until he was killed by a member of Ryder Black’s family. Now, they are the Killoran’s and still enemies with the Black’s, just because it has always been that way.
At the end of the previous series, the two groups declared a truce after the Killoran’s agreed to lead the Black’s to where one of the Black’s was being held hostage. Besides the truce, the agreement also called for the Black’s (who all married into the aristocracy) to sponsor one of the Killoran sisters for a season. They still don’t like or trust each other, but they are both honoring the truce – until . . .
Shock, despair, anger, bitterness all pass through Adair Thorne’s heart, mind, and soul as he observes the burned out husk of The Hell and Sin Club. The Killoran’s, he just knows they are the ones who did it. They burned his home, his heart. He has no proof, but he knows it in his gut.
Since the Black’s can’t prove that the Killoran’s started the fire, they are honor bound to sponsor one of the Killoran sisters for the season. Broderick Killoran wants to ensure the safety and future of his ‘sisters’ by cultivating a tie with the aristocracy and to him, that means marrying one of the sisters to an aristocrat.
Cleopatra is the chosen sister – well – she actually volunteers because she is the protector of her sisters and would never wish that fate on them. Cleopatra is a true heroine – she is strong, smart and sassy and you’ll love the way she shows up at the Black’s townhouse – with a satchel full of weapons. For Cleopatra, it is like entering a war zone – Ryder Black and his brothers don’t trust her out of their sight – or even within their sight. Everything she does is suspect. She will not have a pleasant time living with them. The only friendly member of the family is Ryder’s wife Penelope.
Adair and Cleopatra are drawn to each other and they each hate themselves for that weakness. However, the more Adair is around Cleopatra, the more he discovers how smart and giving she is. They have been at war with each other their entire lives, so how can they become friends or begin to care for each other? Adair sees Cleopatra as a willing participant in all of Diggory’s schemes and crimes – after all – if she didn’t agree she would have left like he and his ‘brothers’ did. Can they ever come to the realization that they were both victims of the same villain?
I loved both Adair and Cleopatra and their stories are compelling. Their journey to an HEA is a wonderful experience and you will learn to admire both of them. The arsonist will surprise you (or not). One thing that bothered me was that there was no punishment for the arsonist. I agree that the arsonist should not have gone to prison, etc. but there were livelihoods lost, people were injured, etc. because of what that arsonist did – some punishment would have been appropriate.
Please check out my reviews at:
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"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 4/3/18
I love Christi Caldwell’s writing and I thoroughly enjoyed this book. That said, I really believe that this book should have been the final book in the Sinful Brides series rather than the first book in the Wicked Wallflowers series. It wraps up all of the loose ends for the previous series – including the final unmarried brother and it introduces the characters for the Wicked Wallflowers series. The characters from the Sinful Brides are heavily (almost exclusively) featured in this book – they are dynamic, interesting and you will quickly care about all of them. I believe the characters from the Wicked Wallflowers series will quickly become just as endearing.
Both of the series feature rivals on the streets of St. Giles. They are bitter enemies, but they are victims of the same monster – Diggory. The men from the Sinful Brides series managed to escape from Diggory’s control, but Diggory was a hateful and dirty fighter and he declared war on Ryder Black and his ‘family’. The ladies featured in the Wicked Wallflowers weren’t lucky enough to escape Diggory’s cruelty – until he was killed by a member of Ryder Black’s family. Now, they are the Killoran’s and still enemies with the Black’s, just because it has always been that way.
At the end of the previous series, the two groups declared a truce after the Killoran’s agreed to lead the Black’s to where one of the Black’s was being held hostage. Besides the truce, the agreement also called for the Black’s (who all married into the aristocracy) to sponsor one of the Killoran sisters for a season. They still don’t like or trust each other, but they are both honoring the truce – until . . .
Shock, despair, anger, bitterness all pass through Adair Thorne’s heart, mind, and soul as he observes the burned out husk of The Hell and Sin Club. The Killoran’s, he just knows they are the ones who did it. They burned his home, his heart. He has no proof, but he knows it in his gut.
Since the Black’s can’t prove that the Killoran’s started the fire, they are honor bound to sponsor one of the Killoran sisters for the season. Broderick Killoran wants to ensure the safety and future of his ‘sisters’ by cultivating a tie with the aristocracy and to him, that means marrying one of the sisters to an aristocrat.
Cleopatra is the chosen sister – well – she actually volunteers because she is the protector of her sisters and would never wish that fate on them. Cleopatra is a true heroine – she is strong, smart and sassy and you’ll love the way she shows up at the Black’s townhouse – with a satchel full of weapons. For Cleopatra, it is like entering a war zone – Ryder Black and his brothers don’t trust her out of their sight – or even within their sight. Everything she does is suspect. She will not have a pleasant time living with them. The only friendly member of the family is Ryder’s wife Penelope.
Adair and Cleopatra are drawn to each other and they each hate themselves for that weakness. However, the more Adair is around Cleopatra, the more he discovers how smart and giving she is. They have been at war with each other their entire lives, so how can they become friends or begin to care for each other? Adair sees Cleopatra as a willing participant in all of Diggory’s schemes and crimes – after all – if she didn’t agree she would have left like he and his ‘brothers’ did. Can they ever come to the realization that they were both victims of the same villain?
I loved both Adair and Cleopatra and their stories are compelling. Their journey to an HEA is a wonderful experience and you will learn to admire both of them. The arsonist will surprise you (or not). One thing that bothered me was that there was no punishment for the arsonist. I agree that the arsonist should not have gone to prison, etc. but there were livelihoods lost, people were injured, etc. because of what that arsonist did – some punishment would have been appropriate.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
May 30, 2018
(Audiobook Review)
This is sort of a new series by Christi Caldwell spinning off one of the characters in the Sinful Brides Series. The author is reuniting the Black Family proprietors of the Hell and Sin and the Killoran Family, their arch enemy. It introduces the story of Adair Thorn who is the brother of Ryker Black.
The plot of the story is about the truce or pact made between the two families in the last book of the Sinful Bride Series where the Ryker agrees to help introduce one of the Killoran sisters into society by marry a proper Lord of the Ton.
As it happens, Cleopatra Killoran volunteers herself to do the marrying but Adair has a different opinion on the matter. The story moves very slow and the hated banter between a very strong-witted Cleo and bull-headed Adair goes on way, way too long for my taste. It has too many holes to be believable and it takes too long for the two characters to become the loving couple that is very predictable from the get-go in chapter one. The characters seem a bit immature for adults.
I think this should have been the last book in the Sinful Brides Series. It was not one of CC’s best works for me. It needed more sexual tension and compassion between Cleo and Adair and not the hotheaded banter that made their hatred so terrible that I found it hard to believe the subsequent attraction. The story felt a bit forced and in order to better understand this book, you would need to read the prior series that introduces these characters. This fell short and a bit unbelievable.
Only nice side of this was the narration done by Tim Campbell who pulls off the many voices of the characters very well.
2.5 Stars
This is sort of a new series by Christi Caldwell spinning off one of the characters in the Sinful Brides Series. The author is reuniting the Black Family proprietors of the Hell and Sin and the Killoran Family, their arch enemy. It introduces the story of Adair Thorn who is the brother of Ryker Black.
The plot of the story is about the truce or pact made between the two families in the last book of the Sinful Bride Series where the Ryker agrees to help introduce one of the Killoran sisters into society by marry a proper Lord of the Ton.
As it happens, Cleopatra Killoran volunteers herself to do the marrying but Adair has a different opinion on the matter. The story moves very slow and the hated banter between a very strong-witted Cleo and bull-headed Adair goes on way, way too long for my taste. It has too many holes to be believable and it takes too long for the two characters to become the loving couple that is very predictable from the get-go in chapter one. The characters seem a bit immature for adults.
I think this should have been the last book in the Sinful Brides Series. It was not one of CC’s best works for me. It needed more sexual tension and compassion between Cleo and Adair and not the hotheaded banter that made their hatred so terrible that I found it hard to believe the subsequent attraction. The story felt a bit forced and in order to better understand this book, you would need to read the prior series that introduces these characters. This fell short and a bit unbelievable.
Only nice side of this was the narration done by Tim Campbell who pulls off the many voices of the characters very well.
2.5 Stars
April 5, 2018
The Hellion is the uniting of the Black family owners of the Hell an Sin Gaming Hell and the Killoran family of the Devils Den Gaming Hell. Two rival gangs that hate each other are untied in a cause to make the Killoran's expectable in the eyes of the Ton. The Black family has already made this transition so to make a peaceful truce they will help the Killoran's. They will bring out Cleopatra Killoran and help her find a proper Lord to marry. Oh but not so fast Adair Thorn who is brother to Ryker Black and runs the Hell and Sin club might have a different opinion.
The story moves very slow. The hatred of Cleo and Adair have toward each other goes on far to long. There love story is not believable!! It just takes too long for the couple to become a loving couple. Sorry this is not one of Christi Caldwell's best works. It needs more sexual spice and more companionship or love adventures between Adair and Cleo.
The story moves very slow. The hatred of Cleo and Adair have toward each other goes on far to long. There love story is not believable!! It just takes too long for the couple to become a loving couple. Sorry this is not one of Christi Caldwell's best works. It needs more sexual spice and more companionship or love adventures between Adair and Cleo.
April 25, 2020
This turned out to be an enjoyable historical romance. It had a fun blend of romance, drama, and interesting characters. It was also a little different from the regular HR books I've read since neither the hero or the heroine of the story were members of the nobility. I thought that was a fun change of pace and it was happy that the story never lost any of the other elements which make the typical HR stories so fun to read.
Christi Caldwell was a new-to-me author. I picked this book on a whim as the blurb made it sound like it would be a fun enemies to lovers style story and because I got the audio super cheap due to the book being included as one of those KU whyspersync deals. It ended up being a worthwhile pick as the story delivered on the promise of the blurb and was pretty good. I've read better over the years and this story was higher on the drama and lower on the humour than I typically prefer in my HR reads but for all that it was still a good read and I'm definitely interested in reading the sequels to see how the rest of the characters we met in this one fare in their own stories.
The plot was engaging enough. The Killoran and Black clans are long time rivals in the London gaming business with both operating rival gaming establishments at the more scandalous level of operations. As a favour for previous help the Riddick Black owes the Killorans' a favour. He promised to use his noble wife's connections to place one of the Killoran sisters in the London season in the hopes of finding her a lofty marriage to a noblemen. Tensions flair as just before Cleopatra Killoran arrives at the home of the Black family to make her debut the Black's club the Hell & Sin is burned to the ground in an act of arson. Without proof the Killoran's are responsible for the blaze the Black's cannot renege on their deal to launch Cleopatra. They do not trust her though so Adair Thorne vows to keep a close eye on the Killoran girl while she is living in his brothers house in case the whole scheme is some sort of cover for something even more nefarious the Killoran's have planned. This is a romance tale so of course sparks fly between Adair and Cleopatra!
The story was more fun that it sounds and both Cleo and Adair proved to be surprisingly easy characters to root for. The tension provided by the long standing family rivalry, and then later by the fact that Cleopatra is only there to find herself a noble husband, on her brothers orders, gave a fun edge to the meetings and interactions between the pair. I actually quite liked the romance as the pair seemed a good match and the relationship between them developed quite well after they got past their initial blind mistrust of the other.
In the blurb Christi Caldwell mentions that she was inspired to write HR books after reading loving Whitney My Love by Judith McNaught. As a fan of McNaught I took that as a promising sign! The weird thing was that the story we got here was not overly similar to any of McNaught's books. If I had to compare this to another romance series I've read then it was probably most similar to BDB by J.R.Ward. The characters had a similar feel as did the tone of the story. It had a little less melodrama than BDB and was probably a bit tamer in general in terms of the plots but it was a fun read in its own way.
If I had a complaint about this series it is the fact that Wicked Wallflowers series appears to be a spin-off series from Caldwell's earlier Sinful Brides series. I wish I'd known that in advance! I did feel a little lost in the early stages of the story when it soon became apparent that the reader was already meant to know who most of the characters were and be familiar with the dynamics and relationships between them. Luckily it did not take long to get up to speed but I did still feel like I was missing something so I wish the blurb had made it more obvious this was a spin-off series as if it had I'd have started at the start!
All in all this was an enjoyable read. It was not on the level of my favourites of the genre but was still good!
Rating: 3.5 stars. I'm rounding up to 4 stars as this was pretty enjoyable!
Audio Note: Tim Campbell did an OK job with the audio.
Christi Caldwell was a new-to-me author. I picked this book on a whim as the blurb made it sound like it would be a fun enemies to lovers style story and because I got the audio super cheap due to the book being included as one of those KU whyspersync deals. It ended up being a worthwhile pick as the story delivered on the promise of the blurb and was pretty good. I've read better over the years and this story was higher on the drama and lower on the humour than I typically prefer in my HR reads but for all that it was still a good read and I'm definitely interested in reading the sequels to see how the rest of the characters we met in this one fare in their own stories.
The plot was engaging enough. The Killoran and Black clans are long time rivals in the London gaming business with both operating rival gaming establishments at the more scandalous level of operations. As a favour for previous help the Riddick Black owes the Killorans' a favour. He promised to use his noble wife's connections to place one of the Killoran sisters in the London season in the hopes of finding her a lofty marriage to a noblemen. Tensions flair as just before Cleopatra Killoran arrives at the home of the Black family to make her debut the Black's club the Hell & Sin is burned to the ground in an act of arson. Without proof the Killoran's are responsible for the blaze the Black's cannot renege on their deal to launch Cleopatra. They do not trust her though so Adair Thorne vows to keep a close eye on the Killoran girl while she is living in his brothers house in case the whole scheme is some sort of cover for something even more nefarious the Killoran's have planned. This is a romance tale so of course sparks fly between Adair and Cleopatra!
The story was more fun that it sounds and both Cleo and Adair proved to be surprisingly easy characters to root for. The tension provided by the long standing family rivalry, and then later by the fact that Cleopatra is only there to find herself a noble husband, on her brothers orders, gave a fun edge to the meetings and interactions between the pair. I actually quite liked the romance as the pair seemed a good match and the relationship between them developed quite well after they got past their initial blind mistrust of the other.
In the blurb Christi Caldwell mentions that she was inspired to write HR books after reading loving Whitney My Love by Judith McNaught. As a fan of McNaught I took that as a promising sign! The weird thing was that the story we got here was not overly similar to any of McNaught's books. If I had to compare this to another romance series I've read then it was probably most similar to BDB by J.R.Ward. The characters had a similar feel as did the tone of the story. It had a little less melodrama than BDB and was probably a bit tamer in general in terms of the plots but it was a fun read in its own way.
If I had a complaint about this series it is the fact that Wicked Wallflowers series appears to be a spin-off series from Caldwell's earlier Sinful Brides series. I wish I'd known that in advance! I did feel a little lost in the early stages of the story when it soon became apparent that the reader was already meant to know who most of the characters were and be familiar with the dynamics and relationships between them. Luckily it did not take long to get up to speed but I did still feel like I was missing something so I wish the blurb had made it more obvious this was a spin-off series as if it had I'd have started at the start!
All in all this was an enjoyable read. It was not on the level of my favourites of the genre but was still good!
Rating: 3.5 stars. I'm rounding up to 4 stars as this was pretty enjoyable!
Audio Note: Tim Campbell did an OK job with the audio.
March 10, 2018
Romeo and Juliet, Heathcliff and Catherine, and now Adair and Cleopatra can be added to my list of favorite star crossed lovers. I love stories of seemingly insurmountable conflicts between families. Like love, feuds create a parallel universe where normal rules don’t apply. And when love defies the conflict, it makes for some very compelling reading.
Adair Thorne had been orphaned by fire as a child and now his home, his livelihood, The Hell and Sin, had been reduced to ashes. He felt like that child again. Scared and wading through an uncertain existence. The club had been his dream, his home, all he’d wanted in life. Now it was gone and Adair was certain it was all due to Broderick Killoran, owner of The Devil’s Den and their rival. He’d been trying to ruin Adair and his brothers for years. Ever since Killoran inherited from Mac Diggory, the man who’d made their lives a living hell. Broderick Killoran had vowed there would be peace between the Killoran and Black families. A truce. His sister, Cleopatra, had even aided in saving Niall’s wife. In exchange, he had asked Black, with connections to the ton, to introduce one of his kin to Polite Society. Though Adair and his brothers mistrusted Killoran, they had no proof yet who started the fire. Until they did, they would have to honor their promise. Cleopatra Killoran would have her season. As second to Broderick, Adair had marked her as trouble the moment he’d seen her. Now she would be in Black’s home where Adair himself was residing since his home was gone. She’d be a guest but one he’d watch closely. “The day a Killoran was anything but an enemy of the Hell and Sin family was the day the world ceased spinning.”
Cleopatra was known to be bold, confident, and fearless. But as she packed to stay at the Black household, she felt a fear and panic she’d not felt since she was a child under Mac Diggory’s control. Until Broderick Killoran had come into her life. He’d protected her and her sisters and she loved him for it. Broderick wanted them to have a better life. Respectability. And to do that, they needed noble connections. Those connections would mean never having to worry about losing everything and living in squalor as they had before. Cleopatra knew her brother was right, but that didn’t ease the fear and panic of leaving her life behind. She could have let one of her sisters go but, though the youngest, Cleopatra was the strongest. Both the Killoran and Black families had been raised as gang members on opposite ends of London. Then they’d been hated rivals. And now they were honoring an agreement. The same people she’d been taught to hate she was now expected to live with. “To live under Black’s roof, make a match with a nob and forever be crushed by that lord’s spirit.” “To humble herself before a world of people who she’d spent her life hating but worse, severing Cleopatra from the only life she’d known.” Cleopatra was afraid but determined not to let it show. She’d do this for the sake of her family. She could handle living among society, living with Black and his brothers. She was Cleopatra Killoran. Named for a queen. There wasn’t a man of any station she couldn’t control.
Cleopatra received a warm welcome from the wives of the Black family. But the brothers were a different story. She felt more like a guarded prisoner than a guest. Especially with Adair Thorne who stalked her every move. The hatred in him was palpable which only made her more determined to bait him. He was arrogant and it was easy to get under his skin. It was clear he didn’t want her here and for that, she admired his genuineness. She didn’t want to be there with him either. Something about him made her feel peculiar. “A damned unwanted fluttering that didn’t have anything to do with hatred or danger, and all the more unnerving for it.”
Adair felt conflicted as well. This small, bespectacled creature was misleading. She was a fearless and sharp tongued hellion. Within moments of meeting, she called out his family’s honor, laughed at him, and questioned his courage. No one had ever dared to speak to him so. She made him lose control. He’d have admired her if she wasn’t a Killoran.
As the weeks progressed, Cleopatra and Adair started to see each other in a different light. They shared a passion for gaming hells. Cleopatra made suggestions for his new club. Her logic made sense and Adair appreciated her insight. Cleopatra began to feel more at ease. At each dreadful ball, she was glad of Adair’s presence. She tried to tell herself it was only because he was from her world and it gave her comfort. They were slowly evolving from mortal enemies to uneasy friends. But just when they’d seem to reach an accord, something would happen to shatter it. Both adept at masking their emotions, they’d often cover their feelings with hurtful and hostile remarks. In one such altercation, Adair lost control, like he was wont to do in Cleo’s presence, and kissed her. That kiss was just as intense and passionate as their arguments. And it completely left them confused. Too much divided them and had divided them all their lives. The hatred they felt for each other’s families was more familiar and safe than the burning longing they felt for each other. Try as they may to deny it, the connection between them was deepening and growing stronger. They valued each other’s opinions, recognized each other’s worth. They shared agonizing memories with each other. Secret parts of themselves. Neither had believed themselves capable of the trust and closeness they felt with each other. But their families would never see the other as they did. What kind of future could they have with such hate between their families? It may not matter, for as secrets come to light and more danger threatens, the only dreams they’d had all their lives and their only hope for the future could be gone.
Just when I think I’ve found my favorite hero and heroine, Christi Caldwell gives me another couple to fall hopelessly in love with. Calum has long been my favorite but I have to say, Adair made me question that. And Cleopatra couldn’t have been more perfect. She proved to be even more wonderful than I imagined. I fell in love with her the moment she packed her weapons right along with her underwear. For Adair, I think I fell in love with him up on that rooftop. Just as Cleo did. They definitely were the most perfectly matched couple I have read in a long time. Both had a deep love for and loyalty to family. Both hated society and loved the gaming hell world. Both had been hardened by horrid beginnings and suffering. They understood what each other had endured. Both feared entering a new life and the uncertainty that came with it. They were leaving behind what they knew. And though both seemed bold and confident, they were vulnerable. Adair was uncertain going out on his own. Each of the brothers were contemplating new endeavors and Adair felt like decisions were being made without him. Cleopatra held her head high and masked her emotions when the ton, who’d thought her good enough to lose their fortunes to, found her shameful for anything more.
These wonderful characters were all introduced in Christi Caldwell’s Sinful Brides series. If this story is any indication, The Wicked Wallflowers series may be even more spectacular. There’s so much I’m looking forward to in this series. I hope Cleopatra’s sisters have their own story. They are just as feisty as their younger sibling. Lord Landon intrigued me as well. I’m anxious to read more of him. And I am chomping at the bit for Reggie and Killoran’s story. I knew Killoran would be so much more than he seemed and I can’t wait to find out what’s in store for him.
This story stands out in so many ways. The strength of characters, the complexity of the plot, the authentic dialogue, and the beautiful love story are all woven together so perfectly. The evolution of Cleopatra and Adair getting to know one another and themselves better is beautiful, amazing, funny at times, and other times will bring tears to your eyes. While this can be read as a stand alone, I can’t imagine reading this story without having read the Sinful Brides series. It just made the story even more moving knowing what brought these characters to this point. Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this book. And thank you to Christi Caldwell for writing characters that have taken a place in my heart. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Adair Thorne had been orphaned by fire as a child and now his home, his livelihood, The Hell and Sin, had been reduced to ashes. He felt like that child again. Scared and wading through an uncertain existence. The club had been his dream, his home, all he’d wanted in life. Now it was gone and Adair was certain it was all due to Broderick Killoran, owner of The Devil’s Den and their rival. He’d been trying to ruin Adair and his brothers for years. Ever since Killoran inherited from Mac Diggory, the man who’d made their lives a living hell. Broderick Killoran had vowed there would be peace between the Killoran and Black families. A truce. His sister, Cleopatra, had even aided in saving Niall’s wife. In exchange, he had asked Black, with connections to the ton, to introduce one of his kin to Polite Society. Though Adair and his brothers mistrusted Killoran, they had no proof yet who started the fire. Until they did, they would have to honor their promise. Cleopatra Killoran would have her season. As second to Broderick, Adair had marked her as trouble the moment he’d seen her. Now she would be in Black’s home where Adair himself was residing since his home was gone. She’d be a guest but one he’d watch closely. “The day a Killoran was anything but an enemy of the Hell and Sin family was the day the world ceased spinning.”
Cleopatra was known to be bold, confident, and fearless. But as she packed to stay at the Black household, she felt a fear and panic she’d not felt since she was a child under Mac Diggory’s control. Until Broderick Killoran had come into her life. He’d protected her and her sisters and she loved him for it. Broderick wanted them to have a better life. Respectability. And to do that, they needed noble connections. Those connections would mean never having to worry about losing everything and living in squalor as they had before. Cleopatra knew her brother was right, but that didn’t ease the fear and panic of leaving her life behind. She could have let one of her sisters go but, though the youngest, Cleopatra was the strongest. Both the Killoran and Black families had been raised as gang members on opposite ends of London. Then they’d been hated rivals. And now they were honoring an agreement. The same people she’d been taught to hate she was now expected to live with. “To live under Black’s roof, make a match with a nob and forever be crushed by that lord’s spirit.” “To humble herself before a world of people who she’d spent her life hating but worse, severing Cleopatra from the only life she’d known.” Cleopatra was afraid but determined not to let it show. She’d do this for the sake of her family. She could handle living among society, living with Black and his brothers. She was Cleopatra Killoran. Named for a queen. There wasn’t a man of any station she couldn’t control.
Cleopatra received a warm welcome from the wives of the Black family. But the brothers were a different story. She felt more like a guarded prisoner than a guest. Especially with Adair Thorne who stalked her every move. The hatred in him was palpable which only made her more determined to bait him. He was arrogant and it was easy to get under his skin. It was clear he didn’t want her here and for that, she admired his genuineness. She didn’t want to be there with him either. Something about him made her feel peculiar. “A damned unwanted fluttering that didn’t have anything to do with hatred or danger, and all the more unnerving for it.”
Adair felt conflicted as well. This small, bespectacled creature was misleading. She was a fearless and sharp tongued hellion. Within moments of meeting, she called out his family’s honor, laughed at him, and questioned his courage. No one had ever dared to speak to him so. She made him lose control. He’d have admired her if she wasn’t a Killoran.
As the weeks progressed, Cleopatra and Adair started to see each other in a different light. They shared a passion for gaming hells. Cleopatra made suggestions for his new club. Her logic made sense and Adair appreciated her insight. Cleopatra began to feel more at ease. At each dreadful ball, she was glad of Adair’s presence. She tried to tell herself it was only because he was from her world and it gave her comfort. They were slowly evolving from mortal enemies to uneasy friends. But just when they’d seem to reach an accord, something would happen to shatter it. Both adept at masking their emotions, they’d often cover their feelings with hurtful and hostile remarks. In one such altercation, Adair lost control, like he was wont to do in Cleo’s presence, and kissed her. That kiss was just as intense and passionate as their arguments. And it completely left them confused. Too much divided them and had divided them all their lives. The hatred they felt for each other’s families was more familiar and safe than the burning longing they felt for each other. Try as they may to deny it, the connection between them was deepening and growing stronger. They valued each other’s opinions, recognized each other’s worth. They shared agonizing memories with each other. Secret parts of themselves. Neither had believed themselves capable of the trust and closeness they felt with each other. But their families would never see the other as they did. What kind of future could they have with such hate between their families? It may not matter, for as secrets come to light and more danger threatens, the only dreams they’d had all their lives and their only hope for the future could be gone.
Just when I think I’ve found my favorite hero and heroine, Christi Caldwell gives me another couple to fall hopelessly in love with. Calum has long been my favorite but I have to say, Adair made me question that. And Cleopatra couldn’t have been more perfect. She proved to be even more wonderful than I imagined. I fell in love with her the moment she packed her weapons right along with her underwear. For Adair, I think I fell in love with him up on that rooftop. Just as Cleo did. They definitely were the most perfectly matched couple I have read in a long time. Both had a deep love for and loyalty to family. Both hated society and loved the gaming hell world. Both had been hardened by horrid beginnings and suffering. They understood what each other had endured. Both feared entering a new life and the uncertainty that came with it. They were leaving behind what they knew. And though both seemed bold and confident, they were vulnerable. Adair was uncertain going out on his own. Each of the brothers were contemplating new endeavors and Adair felt like decisions were being made without him. Cleopatra held her head high and masked her emotions when the ton, who’d thought her good enough to lose their fortunes to, found her shameful for anything more.
These wonderful characters were all introduced in Christi Caldwell’s Sinful Brides series. If this story is any indication, The Wicked Wallflowers series may be even more spectacular. There’s so much I’m looking forward to in this series. I hope Cleopatra’s sisters have their own story. They are just as feisty as their younger sibling. Lord Landon intrigued me as well. I’m anxious to read more of him. And I am chomping at the bit for Reggie and Killoran’s story. I knew Killoran would be so much more than he seemed and I can’t wait to find out what’s in store for him.
This story stands out in so many ways. The strength of characters, the complexity of the plot, the authentic dialogue, and the beautiful love story are all woven together so perfectly. The evolution of Cleopatra and Adair getting to know one another and themselves better is beautiful, amazing, funny at times, and other times will bring tears to your eyes. While this can be read as a stand alone, I can’t imagine reading this story without having read the Sinful Brides series. It just made the story even more moving knowing what brought these characters to this point. Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this book. And thank you to Christi Caldwell for writing characters that have taken a place in my heart. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
May 9, 2021
Adorei 🥰!! Que fera tão matreira! No início percebemos que já devem existir séries anteriores onde será contada a história dos irmãos de Adair, e fico com muita pena de não os ter lido. Mas no decorrer do livro vamos tendo uns vislumbres do passado das personagens. Completamente rendida a Cleopatra e Adair! E já curiosa por ler os livros seguintes!!
February 25, 2021
Review to come
March 26, 2021
*on Kindle Unlimited right now 3/26/21*
I picked this up wanting to try a new to me author. I was surprised by how much I really enjoyed it. This is the first book in the Wicked Wallflowers series. It’s a heavy enemies to lovers romance with Romeo & Juliet vibes where their families are feuding competitors in the gambling business.
It follows Adair Thorne and Lady Cleopatra who’s families are rivals. Adair Thorne is a gruff, tortured damaged hero. Lady Cleopatra is a glasses wearing, strong and sassy heroine.
The Thorne’s gambling hell is ruined and decimated by fire. Adair believes Cleopatra’s family is behind the fire. He’s very attracted to Cleopatra, but of course, her family are enemies of his family so he can’t do anything about it. Lady Cleopatra needs to marry to help her siblings, and as a truce between the families she ends up being sponsored by the Thorne’s to see that happen. During her season Cleopatra will be staying with the eldest Thorne’s family, as will Adair. Cleo and Adair find themselves to be very attracted to each other, their chemistry super strong, BUT neither trust the others family. Or each other, yet. This has a lot of plot, there’s a mystery behind who started the fire, and Cleopatra has a secret that could undo their family’s truce.
Pick this up if you’re looking for a fun, slow-burning enemies to lovers HEA.
I picked this up wanting to try a new to me author. I was surprised by how much I really enjoyed it. This is the first book in the Wicked Wallflowers series. It’s a heavy enemies to lovers romance with Romeo & Juliet vibes where their families are feuding competitors in the gambling business.
It follows Adair Thorne and Lady Cleopatra who’s families are rivals. Adair Thorne is a gruff, tortured damaged hero. Lady Cleopatra is a glasses wearing, strong and sassy heroine.
The Thorne’s gambling hell is ruined and decimated by fire. Adair believes Cleopatra’s family is behind the fire. He’s very attracted to Cleopatra, but of course, her family are enemies of his family so he can’t do anything about it. Lady Cleopatra needs to marry to help her siblings, and as a truce between the families she ends up being sponsored by the Thorne’s to see that happen. During her season Cleopatra will be staying with the eldest Thorne’s family, as will Adair. Cleo and Adair find themselves to be very attracted to each other, their chemistry super strong, BUT neither trust the others family. Or each other, yet. This has a lot of plot, there’s a mystery behind who started the fire, and Cleopatra has a secret that could undo their family’s truce.
Pick this up if you’re looking for a fun, slow-burning enemies to lovers HEA.
January 19, 2019
GOODREADS JUST ATE MY REVIEW! F**K YOU GOODREADS!
Ok, I got that out my system, so here we go, once again...
If you're new to Caldwell don't start here.
This was my first book by Christi Caldwell and I'm sorry to say it wasn't a good experience. This was supposed to be the first book in a series but I guess it's a spin off on another series and a lot of characters and backstories relied on other books. Despite it being a first in series, there were events and characters with back stories that left me confused and lost. Authors, please don't do that. Don't expect readers to have read your other books when starting a new series. If it's a spin off, a few cameos are just fine, but having whole backstories and story plot rely on previous books is just rude. A new series should mean a new beginning, otherwise just continue your previous series and problem solved.
And on top of that the plot was boringly predictable. And also the heroine, Cleopatra was very annoying. She was supposed to be this strong, independant, street smart woman with a difficult history of growing up on the streets but she just came across as rude, annoying, judgemental and sometimes just plain stupid. So yeah, middle way through the book I just decided to give up. Maybe I'll come back to it some other time.. A big maybe, but never say never, right.
Ok, I got that out my system, so here we go, once again...
If you're new to Caldwell don't start here.
This was my first book by Christi Caldwell and I'm sorry to say it wasn't a good experience. This was supposed to be the first book in a series but I guess it's a spin off on another series and a lot of characters and backstories relied on other books. Despite it being a first in series, there were events and characters with back stories that left me confused and lost. Authors, please don't do that. Don't expect readers to have read your other books when starting a new series. If it's a spin off, a few cameos are just fine, but having whole backstories and story plot rely on previous books is just rude. A new series should mean a new beginning, otherwise just continue your previous series and problem solved.
And on top of that the plot was boringly predictable. And also the heroine, Cleopatra was very annoying. She was supposed to be this strong, independant, street smart woman with a difficult history of growing up on the streets but she just came across as rude, annoying, judgemental and sometimes just plain stupid. So yeah, middle way through the book I just decided to give up. Maybe I'll come back to it some other time.. A big maybe, but never say never, right.
April 11, 2018
I share a love of historical romance with my sister-in-law so when she told me I had to push everything aside to read The Hellion, I wasn't sure what to make of it. But I trusted her and read it over the weekend. WOW! What a terrific historical romance. I love the combative dialogue and sizzling chemistry between the characters. There's so much to this story than just romance, though. Pacing was fast but gave me time to savor the time period. Psst, I'm a reformed wallflower so I loved this one!
My Rating: 5 stars
My Rating: 5 stars
December 10, 2022
3 stars
I would die for Adair and Cleopatra.
I would die for Adair and Cleopatra.
February 15, 2023
There are so many reasons I adore this book!
1. HE CLEANS HER GLASSES.
Yanking the tails of his shirt free of his waistband, he proceeded to scrub the frames with the soft material. “For someone who requires glasses, Cleopatra Killoran, you’re certainly one who doesn’t take proper damned care of them.” Ignoring her grasping hands, he held the spectacles higher, out of her reach, and continued cleaning them. “Here,” he muttered, replacing them again.
2. Neither one of the MCs is a member of the nobility. They both come from impoverished backgrounds and appreciate the families they have created and the world they have built for themselves.
3. The heroine is strong, fierce and non-traditional. She doesn't hide her intellect or her competency.
4. He appreciates her intelligence and seeks out her expertise. He is not intimidated by it in the least.
"Stretching his legs out, he crossed them at the ankles in a negligent pose. “Now I see how clever you are in matters of gaming and business, and I’d be a fool to not take your suggestions under consideration.” He’d not only contemplated her ideas, but he’d acted on them, making design changes to his club. Her heart instantly sang. In a world where women’s opinions went unsolicited and unwelcomed, Adair appreciated her mind and insight. And it was heady stuff, indeed."
5. The sparks are undeniable from the moment they meet.
Again, Adair went hot. A person didn’t lose control . . . to do so and show that weakness, particularly before one’s enemy, had the potential to destroy a man. What was it about this sharp-tongued vixen? It was not only her Killoran blood but also the effortless way in which she wielded her tongue like a sharp blade.
6. The setting of London's criminal underworld is so evocatively portrayed, you become immersed.
Plot & Setting: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character Development: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
1. HE CLEANS HER GLASSES.
Yanking the tails of his shirt free of his waistband, he proceeded to scrub the frames with the soft material. “For someone who requires glasses, Cleopatra Killoran, you’re certainly one who doesn’t take proper damned care of them.” Ignoring her grasping hands, he held the spectacles higher, out of her reach, and continued cleaning them. “Here,” he muttered, replacing them again.
2. Neither one of the MCs is a member of the nobility. They both come from impoverished backgrounds and appreciate the families they have created and the world they have built for themselves.
3. The heroine is strong, fierce and non-traditional. She doesn't hide her intellect or her competency.
4. He appreciates her intelligence and seeks out her expertise. He is not intimidated by it in the least.
"Stretching his legs out, he crossed them at the ankles in a negligent pose. “Now I see how clever you are in matters of gaming and business, and I’d be a fool to not take your suggestions under consideration.” He’d not only contemplated her ideas, but he’d acted on them, making design changes to his club. Her heart instantly sang. In a world where women’s opinions went unsolicited and unwelcomed, Adair appreciated her mind and insight. And it was heady stuff, indeed."
5. The sparks are undeniable from the moment they meet.
Again, Adair went hot. A person didn’t lose control . . . to do so and show that weakness, particularly before one’s enemy, had the potential to destroy a man. What was it about this sharp-tongued vixen? It was not only her Killoran blood but also the effortless way in which she wielded her tongue like a sharp blade.
6. The setting of London's criminal underworld is so evocatively portrayed, you become immersed.
Plot & Setting: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character Development: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
March 10, 2018
Two rival families
One bargain
One world destroyed
Adair Thorne, the last single owner of the Hell & Sin Club, is certain of few things in life. The top of the list – the Killoran’s will forever be the enemy. The second – he will never, ever, give his heart to another.
Cleopatra Killoran will 1) never trust a member of the Black family, they will be bitter rivals to the end; 2) do anything to protect her family; even if it means sacrificing her own happiness.
A family debt of gratitude and a common fear bring these two scarred souls together, but will a perceived betrayal tear them apart?
Christi Caldwell continues to amaze me with the depth of emotions she puts into each character; slowing peeling back each layer to reveal the person behind the mask he/she portrays to the world.
I adore Cleo’s spine of steel and Adair’s gruffness, hiding the vulnerable child within. Each desperately wanting the security they never had. Including members of previous books adds to the overall dynamic while giving a glimpse into how Adair and Cleo feel like outsiders within their own family. A truth that happens in families even today.
Cheers to another 5+ star read Ms. Caldwell.
One bargain
One world destroyed
Adair Thorne, the last single owner of the Hell & Sin Club, is certain of few things in life. The top of the list – the Killoran’s will forever be the enemy. The second – he will never, ever, give his heart to another.
Cleopatra Killoran will 1) never trust a member of the Black family, they will be bitter rivals to the end; 2) do anything to protect her family; even if it means sacrificing her own happiness.
A family debt of gratitude and a common fear bring these two scarred souls together, but will a perceived betrayal tear them apart?
Christi Caldwell continues to amaze me with the depth of emotions she puts into each character; slowing peeling back each layer to reveal the person behind the mask he/she portrays to the world.
I adore Cleo’s spine of steel and Adair’s gruffness, hiding the vulnerable child within. Each desperately wanting the security they never had. Including members of previous books adds to the overall dynamic while giving a glimpse into how Adair and Cleo feel like outsiders within their own family. A truth that happens in families even today.
Cheers to another 5+ star read Ms. Caldwell.
April 1, 2018
The Hellion by Christi Caldwell is the First book in the Wicked Wallflowers series. This is the story of Adair Thorne and Cleopatra Killoran.
Although this is the first book in a new series this does tie in with the Sinful Brides series. Most of the main characters from the previous books are in this one. But this still can easily be a standalone book, I just wanted to mention that in case you would like to continue catching up with that series.
This book opens to following through with the agreement of the truce that everyone agreed too. Cleopatra goes forward to be the one that is sponsored by the rival group to introduce her into society.
Adair is devastated after his gambling club The Hell and Sin Club is burnt to a crisp. Adair firmly believes its the Killorna's group who caused the deviation, but they deny it. Adair and Cleopatra but heads left and right but Adair starts to learn who the real Cleopatra is.
This was another emotional page turner from Ms. Caldwell. Absolutely loved this story!
Although this is the first book in a new series this does tie in with the Sinful Brides series. Most of the main characters from the previous books are in this one. But this still can easily be a standalone book, I just wanted to mention that in case you would like to continue catching up with that series.
This book opens to following through with the agreement of the truce that everyone agreed too. Cleopatra goes forward to be the one that is sponsored by the rival group to introduce her into society.
Adair is devastated after his gambling club The Hell and Sin Club is burnt to a crisp. Adair firmly believes its the Killorna's group who caused the deviation, but they deny it. Adair and Cleopatra but heads left and right but Adair starts to learn who the real Cleopatra is.
This was another emotional page turner from Ms. Caldwell. Absolutely loved this story!
April 12, 2025
KU. Jan. Reads. HR Mad About Series 2025. Tropes: Regency Romance, Enemies to Lovers,
MC's
I will have to read the Sinful Brides series first before I finish the rest of this one.
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MC's
I will have to read the Sinful Brides series first before I finish the rest of this one.
******************************************************************************
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2018
This reader prefers a short review, and that is what was intended, short and sweet. Hmmm, not this time. ☺️
Previously, in Christi Caldwell’s Sinful Brides Series readers met a family unlike any other. A band of street brothers who owned and operated one of St. Giles biggest gaming establishments, the Hell and Sin Club. The bigger than life, Ryker Black, was the leader and head of that family, and what an awesome world filled with unforgettable characters this amazingly talented author gifted to the regency genre lovers. This family would overcome many challenges (some lighthearted, some dark), and meet and establish connections in Society, growing in wealth and power.
With the first in her newest Wicked Wallflowers series, “The Hellion”, the focus shifts to yet another intriguing and unique family, the proprietors of the Devil’s Den. This rival club and family, also coming from a life on the streets, is led by Broderick Killoran, a brother who wants better for his siblings and is driven by “a lust for respectability”. Broderick believes to secure noble connections and acquire entry into Society will ensure their strength and power, thereby providing a lasting security for all the group. When his sister, Cleopatra was instrumental in saving one of Black’s family from the evil clutches of a horrid, vicious thug, in return the Blacks entered into an agreement to sponsor one of Killoran’s sisters for a Season.
This book can be read as a stand alone, but it does serve as a link between these series: Adair Thorne, brother of Ryker Black, and Cleopatra Killoran, sister of Broderick Killoran.
As his siblings have found love, and their paths are taking them in new directions, Adair is feeling alone, being left in charge and given the primary responsibility of the Hell and Sin Club. This story begins with the destruction of his club by fire, bringing with it similar memories of his past childhood. Of course, in his mind the only possible cause for this loss would be the Devil’s Den.
Cleopatra Killoran is unlike any other heroine. She’s stubborn, strong, and smart; a bespectacled lady, with a pistol in her pocket and a dagger in her boot, she can hold her own with most any man, brains or brawn. But underneath this rough and tough girl, there are heart-wrenching secrets and fears tucked away and buried.
When the Blacks take Cleopatra into their home, Adair is assigned as her escort and guard. The plan is to introduce her into Society where she’ll find a nobleman for a husband, and the agreement will be honored. As Adair battles inwardly over his hatred of the Killorans and an unexplainable draw and sudden pull towards this bold and headstrong girl, things become quite interesting. Cleopatra starts to realize the man of honor and kindness Adair truly is, and begins to doubt her self-sacrifice for her family’s good. A bond begins to form as they share interests and ideas for the rebuild and management of his club. Will Adair and Cleo also share the secrets of their pasts and open their hearts to one another? Who started the fire at Adair’s club, and what will happen to the Hell and Sin Club? Theirs is a must read!
With a mix of familiar and new characters, this writer once again builds a series that promises so many adventures, challenges and opportunities waiting to be explored and enjoyed for months to come. While it’s always sad to see one series end, there is always the assurance that Christi Caldwell’s amazing characters are never left behind. They always live on in her readers’ minds and hearts, and may reappear yet again on the pages of a new story yet to be told.
I received an arc of this book for my honest opinion. I highly recommend.
Can’t wait for more of the Killorans!!! Awesome!
Previously, in Christi Caldwell’s Sinful Brides Series readers met a family unlike any other. A band of street brothers who owned and operated one of St. Giles biggest gaming establishments, the Hell and Sin Club. The bigger than life, Ryker Black, was the leader and head of that family, and what an awesome world filled with unforgettable characters this amazingly talented author gifted to the regency genre lovers. This family would overcome many challenges (some lighthearted, some dark), and meet and establish connections in Society, growing in wealth and power.
With the first in her newest Wicked Wallflowers series, “The Hellion”, the focus shifts to yet another intriguing and unique family, the proprietors of the Devil’s Den. This rival club and family, also coming from a life on the streets, is led by Broderick Killoran, a brother who wants better for his siblings and is driven by “a lust for respectability”. Broderick believes to secure noble connections and acquire entry into Society will ensure their strength and power, thereby providing a lasting security for all the group. When his sister, Cleopatra was instrumental in saving one of Black’s family from the evil clutches of a horrid, vicious thug, in return the Blacks entered into an agreement to sponsor one of Killoran’s sisters for a Season.
This book can be read as a stand alone, but it does serve as a link between these series: Adair Thorne, brother of Ryker Black, and Cleopatra Killoran, sister of Broderick Killoran.
As his siblings have found love, and their paths are taking them in new directions, Adair is feeling alone, being left in charge and given the primary responsibility of the Hell and Sin Club. This story begins with the destruction of his club by fire, bringing with it similar memories of his past childhood. Of course, in his mind the only possible cause for this loss would be the Devil’s Den.
Cleopatra Killoran is unlike any other heroine. She’s stubborn, strong, and smart; a bespectacled lady, with a pistol in her pocket and a dagger in her boot, she can hold her own with most any man, brains or brawn. But underneath this rough and tough girl, there are heart-wrenching secrets and fears tucked away and buried.
When the Blacks take Cleopatra into their home, Adair is assigned as her escort and guard. The plan is to introduce her into Society where she’ll find a nobleman for a husband, and the agreement will be honored. As Adair battles inwardly over his hatred of the Killorans and an unexplainable draw and sudden pull towards this bold and headstrong girl, things become quite interesting. Cleopatra starts to realize the man of honor and kindness Adair truly is, and begins to doubt her self-sacrifice for her family’s good. A bond begins to form as they share interests and ideas for the rebuild and management of his club. Will Adair and Cleo also share the secrets of their pasts and open their hearts to one another? Who started the fire at Adair’s club, and what will happen to the Hell and Sin Club? Theirs is a must read!
With a mix of familiar and new characters, this writer once again builds a series that promises so many adventures, challenges and opportunities waiting to be explored and enjoyed for months to come. While it’s always sad to see one series end, there is always the assurance that Christi Caldwell’s amazing characters are never left behind. They always live on in her readers’ minds and hearts, and may reappear yet again on the pages of a new story yet to be told.
I received an arc of this book for my honest opinion. I highly recommend.
Can’t wait for more of the Killorans!!! Awesome!
August 16, 2019
There were a few things about this book that were so deeply unsatisfying that it really cast a cloud over the whole thing to me.
Firstly, let me say: I loved Cleopatra. She was the best kind of HR heroine.
The primary issue, for me, was that the Black family ... were the villains.
I get that they weren't supposed to be. It felt like there were books in the series that I was missing, which is odd because this is book 1. They alluded to this big backstory where the Killorans were wicked villains, but they never told us anything BAD that the Killorans did - only things that Diggory did, and as this book made very clear, the Killorans weren't responsible for that. So all we did hear about the Killorans was how they helped the Blacks - saved the life of one brother's life, helped discover the drunken nanny, etc.
But what we did see was the Black family behave like monsters. And I mean monsters - they were fucking horrid to this girl who was utterly alone. Her first day there, she was assaulted and then stripped of her ability to defend herself ... even though all the rest of them (including the wives, as Penelope points out) were always armed. Then she's followed around by bullies who always seem a half step from assaulting her. And yes, I'm lumping the Black "brothers" into that. It was unbelievably awful, and never justified by a single thing we got to see in this book. I hated - literally - their whole family. They were the worst kind of entitled rich asshole, these boys from the streets who married rich noble wives and now thought themselves so much better than everyone else... including their "brother" who hadn't married a rich noblewoman. Which brings me to ...
The Black familiy villainy was compounded by seeing how they treated Adair, their supposed "brother" - cut him out of discussions on the business, strategy, etc. When he asked why he was left out, they tell him that's not important. They just stand there and present to him what they've decided, as a done deal. They can't blame that on his interest in Cleopatra, because it was happening before then - it happens regarding the business right in the very beginning of this book. They don't treat him like a brother, they treat him as a servant, at best. Order him around and tell him how things are going to be.
And there was never a reckoning on that. Why?
The fact that the villains of this book - people who treated both main characters (Cleo and Adair) like complete garbage - had no consequences ... and were largely treated by the story like the good guys ... made for a deeply unsatisfying story. I can't imagine Cleo marrying into that kind of scorn in her daily life, and given their casual disdain for their own "brother", I can't imagine them ever treating Cleo any better. I despise them, and I wanted Cleo and Adair to leave their whole bullshit family behind. It doesn't happen, and that made this a dud for me - I don't believe the HEA. I don't believe Cleo will ever find the happiness she deserves in this situation.
Firstly, let me say: I loved Cleopatra. She was the best kind of HR heroine.
The primary issue, for me, was that the Black family ... were the villains.
I get that they weren't supposed to be. It felt like there were books in the series that I was missing, which is odd because this is book 1. They alluded to this big backstory where the Killorans were wicked villains, but they never told us anything BAD that the Killorans did - only things that Diggory did, and as this book made very clear, the Killorans weren't responsible for that. So all we did hear about the Killorans was how they helped the Blacks - saved the life of one brother's life, helped discover the drunken nanny, etc.
But what we did see was the Black family behave like monsters. And I mean monsters - they were fucking horrid to this girl who was utterly alone. Her first day there, she was assaulted and then stripped of her ability to defend herself ... even though all the rest of them (including the wives, as Penelope points out) were always armed. Then she's followed around by bullies who always seem a half step from assaulting her. And yes, I'm lumping the Black "brothers" into that. It was unbelievably awful, and never justified by a single thing we got to see in this book. I hated - literally - their whole family. They were the worst kind of entitled rich asshole, these boys from the streets who married rich noble wives and now thought themselves so much better than everyone else... including their "brother" who hadn't married a rich noblewoman. Which brings me to ...
The Black familiy villainy was compounded by seeing how they treated Adair, their supposed "brother" - cut him out of discussions on the business, strategy, etc. When he asked why he was left out, they tell him that's not important. They just stand there and present to him what they've decided, as a done deal. They can't blame that on his interest in Cleopatra, because it was happening before then - it happens regarding the business right in the very beginning of this book. They don't treat him like a brother, they treat him as a servant, at best. Order him around and tell him how things are going to be.
And there was never a reckoning on that. Why?
The fact that the villains of this book - people who treated both main characters (Cleo and Adair) like complete garbage - had no consequences ... and were largely treated by the story like the good guys ... made for a deeply unsatisfying story. I can't imagine Cleo marrying into that kind of scorn in her daily life, and given their casual disdain for their own "brother", I can't imagine them ever treating Cleo any better. I despise them, and I wanted Cleo and Adair to leave their whole bullshit family behind. It doesn't happen, and that made this a dud for me - I don't believe the HEA. I don't believe Cleo will ever find the happiness she deserves in this situation.
June 16, 2019
3.5 Stars
This is the first book in the series, but I’ve read this series back to front, and whilst I see there is a strand connecting them, I don’t feel reading them out of order was a bad idea, and the books I’ve read mean I do want to read more by the author.
Adair Thorne and his brothers have just had their gaming hell burn, and whilst they think their enemies – the Killornas were behind it, Adair’s sister-in-law emphasises that unless they have proof, they cannot break the truce they have with the Killornas. And a component of that truth involves sponsoring one or the Killorans for a season. Cleopatra (Cleo) Killoran, sharp eyed, as well as being silent/quick on her feet in order to protect her siblings decides to grit her teeth and do as her brother wishes – have a season and find a titled husband.
This book in the series is definitely at present my favourite of what I’ve read, there were moments of humour, some very small mischief (I would have liked more), tension, passion and a dash of angst, all of which were weaved together, for the most part, nicely. That being said I do wish that the mistrust that is depicted through almost more than half of the book, had been tampered down a little,
The depiction of the rags to riches theme in this book, does require you to firmly leave reality at the door, or you will find yourself going no way would the Ton behave/react like that, for some reason I didn’t find myself perturbed by this fact as I read. That being said whilst I did enjoy this read, I didn’t find myself potently enamoured with the main characters, they worked well together overall, but I know that given a few weeks the characters and plot will dissipate from my thoughts. Yet I can see myself re-reading this when I need something that won’t task me, but will lightly engage me. Caldwell hasn’t become one of my favourite HR authors, but she her work is something I will continue to read, and hopefully overall enjoy.
This is the first book in the series, but I’ve read this series back to front, and whilst I see there is a strand connecting them, I don’t feel reading them out of order was a bad idea, and the books I’ve read mean I do want to read more by the author.
Adair Thorne and his brothers have just had their gaming hell burn, and whilst they think their enemies – the Killornas were behind it, Adair’s sister-in-law emphasises that unless they have proof, they cannot break the truce they have with the Killornas. And a component of that truth involves sponsoring one or the Killorans for a season. Cleopatra (Cleo) Killoran, sharp eyed, as well as being silent/quick on her feet in order to protect her siblings decides to grit her teeth and do as her brother wishes – have a season and find a titled husband.
This book in the series is definitely at present my favourite of what I’ve read, there were moments of humour, some very small mischief (I would have liked more), tension, passion and a dash of angst, all of which were weaved together, for the most part, nicely. That being said I do wish that the mistrust that is depicted through almost more than half of the book, had been tampered down a little,
The depiction of the rags to riches theme in this book, does require you to firmly leave reality at the door, or you will find yourself going no way would the Ton behave/react like that, for some reason I didn’t find myself perturbed by this fact as I read. That being said whilst I did enjoy this read, I didn’t find myself potently enamoured with the main characters, they worked well together overall, but I know that given a few weeks the characters and plot will dissipate from my thoughts. Yet I can see myself re-reading this when I need something that won’t task me, but will lightly engage me. Caldwell hasn’t become one of my favourite HR authors, but she her work is something I will continue to read, and hopefully overall enjoy.
March 24, 2018
This is such a great first book to kick off the Wicked Wallflowers series! I enjoyed this tremendously! One of the things that I especially enjoyed was that while it is set in the popular Regency period, the hero and heroine are unique in that they both grew up on the rough streets of the worst part of London. They have each adopted a street "family" and the two families are declared enemies.
The circumstances which bring them together are also unique. The families operate rival gaming establishments. Adair Thorne's "brothers" have married into the ton and he has just lost his gaming-hell to a fire. Cleopatra Killoran finds herself in the unwanted situation of needing to marry into the aristocracy in order to benefit her "family." These two sworn enemies are reluctantly forced to honor an unsteady truce. As they are required to spend time together, their attraction is undeniable. This couple was one to root for. They each had admirable grit and there were serious problems for them to overcome.
I will say that it took me a couple of chapters to sink into this story because it is a spinoff series and I was not familiar with the back stories of previous books. However, I was able to follow along and it was not an issue for long. I recommend this for anyone who enjoys historical romance. I am thrilled that there will be more related books in a series.
The circumstances which bring them together are also unique. The families operate rival gaming establishments. Adair Thorne's "brothers" have married into the ton and he has just lost his gaming-hell to a fire. Cleopatra Killoran finds herself in the unwanted situation of needing to marry into the aristocracy in order to benefit her "family." These two sworn enemies are reluctantly forced to honor an unsteady truce. As they are required to spend time together, their attraction is undeniable. This couple was one to root for. They each had admirable grit and there were serious problems for them to overcome.
I will say that it took me a couple of chapters to sink into this story because it is a spinoff series and I was not familiar with the back stories of previous books. However, I was able to follow along and it was not an issue for long. I recommend this for anyone who enjoys historical romance. I am thrilled that there will be more related books in a series.
March 1, 2019
All for Love💘
The book delves into a bitter rivalry between two Regency Era families that both run gaming🃏 hells. One is a lord, and The other a man lost his parents and sister in a fire of their bakery.
Adair THorne🐺🍆🌋🔪 is The man who lost his family and has pulled himself up by his bootstraps to become wealthy as well.
Cleopatra💃 is The daughter of the feuding Lord who becomes enamored with Adair🐺🍆🌋🔪. Suspicious fires plague Adair's business, burning his gambling hall🃏. During repairs, it is burned yet again, this time with Cleopatra💃 trapped on The roof.
Adair realizes that his love for her outweighs his hate for her father!
I got the audio book with this book and enjoyed the male narrator very much! This an Adult Romance.
Recommend!
The book delves into a bitter rivalry between two Regency Era families that both run gaming🃏 hells. One is a lord, and The other a man lost his parents and sister in a fire of their bakery.
Adair THorne🐺🍆🌋🔪 is The man who lost his family and has pulled himself up by his bootstraps to become wealthy as well.
Cleopatra💃 is The daughter of the feuding Lord who becomes enamored with Adair🐺🍆🌋🔪. Suspicious fires plague Adair's business, burning his gambling hall🃏. During repairs, it is burned yet again, this time with Cleopatra💃 trapped on The roof.
Adair realizes that his love for her outweighs his hate for her father!
I got the audio book with this book and enjoyed the male narrator very much! This an Adult Romance.
Recommend!
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