Too Wicked to Kiss by Erica Ridley
4 stars
Too Wicked To Kiss is a gothic Regency romance.
Evangeline has recently run away from her stepfather and sought shelter from the family of her mother’s friend. Lady Stanton cajoles Evangeline to accompany them to a house party but in return she is expected to help Lady Stanton’s daughter gain a wealthy husband.
Rose Heatherbrook has arranged a house party at her brother’s house to bring him back into accepted society, but Gavin Lioncroft is an unwilling host. For several years he has been surrounded by rumours that accused him of being a murderer, and both his family and fellow peers shunned him. Now his estranged sister brings unwanted guests to his home, and old accusations flare once more when a new murder occurs.
This story mixes a traditional whodunnit with romance and a touch of the paranormal. I liked the eerie setting, and the gothic element added a dark layer to the scenery. The romance was expected but it suited the story and was quite satisfying in its denouement. The ambitious number of themes does make this book quite long compared to others in the Regency romance genre, however if you don’t mind the twist of a cross-genre theme then this story might be for you.
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HIS TOUCH HOLDS HER CAPTIVE
From the ravens circling its spires to the gargoyles adorning its roof, Blackberry Manor looms ominously over its rambling grounds. And behind its doors, amid the flickering shadows and secret passageways, danger lies in wait…
TO HIS EVERY DARK DESIRE
Evangeline Pemberton has been invited to a party at the sprawling estate of reclusive Gavin Lioncroft, who is rumored to have killed in cold blood. Initially, his towering presence and brusque manner instill fear… until his seductive attentions and unexpected vulnerability conquer her resistance.
But when a guest is murdered, Evangeline is torn. Could the man to whom she is so powerfully drawn, also be a ruthless killer?
Rosie Amber 