Lady of Pleasure (School of Gallantry Book 3)

At forty, Lady Cecilia Evangeline Stone thinks she has everything a woman could ever want. A title, a fortune, and four children who make her proud. After a marriage of convenience that was anything but convenient, she has no desire to complicate her life by including a man in it again. When her eldest son announces his engagement to a Russian actress in Saint Petersburg, Cecilia sets out to do what any good mother would do: Unfortunately, destiny has other plans.

Konstantin Alexie Levin never considered himself to be a villain. In fact, he considers himself to be a Russian gentleman. To his surprise, he is about to become a hero at midnight to a beautiful aristocrat who desperately needs his help. The problem is…he wants to do more than save Lady Stone. He wants to make the woman his, all his. School of Gallantry 4. An arranged marriage is daunting, but not as daunting as seducing a spouse whose passions you do not understand….

Derek Charles Holbrook, Viscount Banfield, knew his fate since he was seventeen when his father announced his union to the beautiful but mysterious American girl by the name of Miss Grey. Miss Clementine Henrietta Grey may be worth millions, but not a single coin has ever bought her a smidge of happiness. When she marries the charasmatic and dashing Viscount Banfield, whose only strife in life appears to be the uneven seams in his coat, she finds that siring the heir he wants requires far more than her heart is prepared to give. Unable to seduce his overly-serious and reluctant wife, Derek realizes his dreams of creating a loving family has turned into a nightmare.

But with the unexpected assistance of a retired courtesan and her outrageous school, Derek and Clementine discover that passion is a language spoken not just from the body, but from the mind, heart and soul. Email will not be published required. Kimberly reviews Rising Assets by Rebecca Zanetti. Leave a Reply Click here to cancel reply. Comment Name required Email will not be published required Website. Finally the planets aligned and Lady of Pleasure is the incredible result. If you think this will be "more of the same" you would be wrong.

After all this IS Delilah Marvelle, in all her glorious historical, romantic, splendor. Kind of Fielding meets Euripides. The two sided lucky coin of comedy and tragedy. If you thought you knew Caldwell from the second book in the series, you would be wrong. Caroline's intellect and passions introduced in the second book, are just a pale shadow of what the reader finds in this third book. She is a strong, intelligent passionate woman, beyond her years in all those elements. We find out things about her parents and brother and sisters that flip the coin from comedic to tragic then back again.

Caldwell's story will break your heart then put it back together again. He is a unique character I have never encountered before outside of Robin Schone. Caldwell is definitely a darker character than one ever expected from the first two books. He and Caroline together, with the menagerie that is their respective families and friends drag you in to the world of the School of Gallantry and leave you wanting more.

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I loved this book and the emotional trip on which it led me. I love this author because of her intellect, her passions, and her incredible understanding of the tragic and the comedic. May 29, Wench rated it did not like it Shelves: Trigger warning for rape, pedophilia, and coerced consent. If you don't like sexual behavior beyond monogamous, vanilla, heterosexual pen Y'all. Jun 24, Sophie Barnes rated it it was amazing. The characters in this story were extraordinarily well crafted and real. The heroine was both sweet and funny, her devotion to the man she loved incredibly endearing, while the hero invited endless amounts of sympathy throughout, due to his tragic past.

When Caroline Arabella Starling meets her brother's best friend, Ronan Henry Dearborn, the fourth Marquess of Caldwell, for the first time at the age of thirteen, she takes an instant liking to him. In spite of the twelve year difference between t The characters in this story were extraordinarily well crafted and real.

In spite of the twelve year difference between the two, they become close friends, meeting once a week - every Thursday - for a game of piquet. And as the years go by, Caroline falls hopelessly and madly in love with him, still holding out hope when he insists she's too young for him. But it isn't just the age difference that prompts Caldwell to keep Caroline at arm's length.

After losing his investment to a fire, he's penniless and desperate, completely unworthy of any lady's affection. Humiliated by the choices he's forced to make in order to get by, he puts distance between himself and the girl who has always idolized him.

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Three years go by until they meet again, and Caldwell finds that Caroline has transformed into a stunning beauty. Her feelings for him are unchanged, and so she sets about trying to win him again, with greater success than before. But secrets from his past are destined to get these two tangled up in a series of terrible misunderstandings that only an open heart and absolute honesty can hope to undo. I found Caldwell's story to be absolutely heart-wrenching! It is filled with so much angst, and just when you think it can't get any worse, something else is revealed.

But the interaction between him and Caroline is wonderful, their conversation wrought with humor as their relationship gradually progresses from simple friendship to so much more. Delilah Marvelle is a fantastic storyteller. I thoroughly enjoyed this read, and was very relieved when Caroline and Caldwell finally got the happy ending they both so thoroughly deserved.

View all 3 comments. Mar 19, Cerian rated it it was amazing Shelves: I absolutely loved it. I've previously read books by Delilah Marvelle, but this is the first in the School of Gallantry series I've read, and the first thing on my to do list is to get my hands on the previous two books! I immediately felt myself drawn into the story. Starting with Lady Caroline as a rather wise and precocious 13 year old who befriends the outwardly rakish Ronan, Marquess of Caldwell. Their friendship is very sweet, and you can easily see why Caroline swiftly falls in love wi Wow.

Their friendship is very sweet, and you can easily see why Caroline swiftly falls in love with him. I'll admit that I wasn't expecting the book to be so scandalous! But it was wonderfully so, and Delilah Marvelle certainly has no fears of venturing into the secret and devious sexual world that existed. A word of warning, whilst it isn't in your face constantly there is quite a bit of sexual reference, so if you prefer your romance more tame- you may not enjoy it as much as I did.

Personally, I loved it! Plus- how gorgeous is that cover?! I've had a look, and the next two books have equally amazing covers. Caroline was fabulous, she may be slightly more respectable than some of her outrageous family but she's forthright and confident. It's so sweet how much she loves Ronan, she would do anything for him. Of course, the path of love isn't always smooth and she has some pretty huge bumps in her path. My heart bled for Ronan. He has a rather easy, rakish attitude but underneath all that is a man in pain.

His past is dark, and makes him so ashamed that you can't help but feel heart-wrenching pity for him. But when he realises just how much Caroline means to him he will do anything to win her back! The other characters in this book are also marvelous. They're all so well fleshed-out, that you want to know so much more about them. Which thankfully you can, because there are 2 previous books in the series, and a further two books to come!

I can not describe how excited I am- particularly for Brayton's book. Whilst aspects of the story are dark and heart-breaking, Delilah Marvelle also writes with a humour that makes you laugh out loud at times. Overall, I thought this was a wonderful and sensual romance that grips you immediately, and doesn't let go. I sobbed at parts seriously I was a wreck and cheered at others. I heartily recommend this book and I can't wait to devour the rest of the books in the series, I'm just grateful there's already two out there for me to read now!

Originally posted at Rookie Romance Apr 22, Dana Delamar rated it really liked it. Another fun installment in the School of Gallantry series. I really enjoyed the first two books, Mistress of Pleasure and Lord of Pleasure, so I'm pleased Delilah Marvelle is continuing the series! As usual, the hero and heroine are intriguing and entertaining. Caroline is more forthright than Ronan, despite being his junior by over a decade, and I enjoyed seeing how her direct manner kept him both fascinated and off-kilter.

Ronan has some very dark secrets, and as they unfold, we see how they'v Another fun installment in the School of Gallantry series. Ronan has some very dark secrets, and as they unfold, we see how they've shaped him, for better or worse. He's not ready to love Caroline, and he almost loses her I've always loved her character, and once again, she doesn't disappoint. I was laughing, smiling, and nodding my head at her quirky brand of wisdom and quick-witted instruction.

One thing to keep in mind with this series is that the chronology can be a bit confusing--although this is the third book, the books happen more or less simultaneously. In some ways, you could consider this the first book, Lord of Pleasure the second, and Mistress of Pleasure the third. I gave up trying to keep the timeline straight and just went with it. When the story is this much fun, that's a minor quibble. Mar 17, Marquita Valentine rated it it was amazing Shelves: I loved the story of Ronan and Caroline.

And I stayed up waaaay late into the night finishing their story, because I JUST had to experience their happily ever after. I'll definitely being waiting impatiently for the next book Ms. Mar 04, Jessie rated it it was amazing Shelves: I am a huge fan of the School of Gallantry series and even though I had to wait three years for book 3, I was extremely lucky enough to be one of the author's beta readers.

So of course, I love this book. I like how with each book we're going more into the past. Chronologically the first book's events were the last to happen. Mar 18, Kati rated it it was amazing Shelves: Apr 16, Lynn rated it it was ok. Fine, but a little too modern in it's tart-iness considering the historical setting. Apr 05, Tin rated it really liked it Shelves: I requested for a review copy of this book from the author.

Thank you to Delilah Marvelle for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review. Ronan Henry Dearborn, Marquess of Caldwell has looks, a lofty title and nothing more. He inherited a crumbling estate, an aunt in France in need of financial assistance, and debts in staggering amounts. His last-ditch plan to raise funds resulted in disaster -- and even greater debts. His one salvation is his friendship with Lady Caroline, the yo Disclosure: His one salvation is his friendship with Lady Caroline, the younger sister of his dearest friend, Alex Starling.

She's loved him since he first surprised her and nearly caused her to fall off the ladder in the library -- and has continued to love him for six years, through his darkest moment. Now, Caroline has finally made her come out and she has set her cap on Ronan. Caroline sees it as the logical progression of their relationship, but Ronan sees it as impossible.

There's the age gap, the state of his finances versus her sizable dowry, and the differences in their life experiences. Ronan is determined to prove to Caroline that he's wrong for her -- and Caroline wants to show him otherwise. Lady Caroline believes this maxim wholeheartedly but she's having a hard time convincing Ronan of its truth. Ronan has had a sad upbringing -- and Delilah Marvelle touches on issues of abuse and neglect in a very poignant and sympathetic manner.

But Ronan has an enduring spirit -- and part of it was nurtured because of his friendship with Caroline. He thought he was saving her from her loneliness and isolation and never thought that she was also saving him from his own problems. I loved Caroline from the first moment. She's an unconventional heroine: And she has an unusual hobby: When she finally came of age, she gained self-possession and maturity. But, despite everything that had happened to her her parents' estrangement, her father's death, etc , she never lost her vibrance and optimism.

And I loved how she pursued Ronan. She was clear about her intentions but was never pushy. And she did it with a sense of humor. His gaze jerked to hers. It gave her hope. She brought her hands together, trying to keep herself and her voice calm. You didn't think my affections for you have changed since we last saw each other?

Lady of Pleasure

In fact, I consider myself more passionate now than I was then. Which means, you don't stand a chance. By June, you'll be mine. The banter between Caroline and Ronan and between Caroline and her sisters was good-humored, witty and revealed aspects of each character's personality. Then Chapter 9 happens, a story takes a dark turn. I understand that a powerful catalyst would be needed to move Ronan's character and to test Caroline's devotion which, up to this point, could still be construed as infatuation -- and Delilah Marvelle succeeds in doing so although, I will say, I did cringe when it did happen.

Chapters 9 and 10 Things fall apart for our hero and heroine and it takes the second half of the book for them to sort through the debris and to figure out what it is that exists between them. The process is painful for Ronan and Caroline, especially for Ronan, who is forced to confront the painful memories of his past and the accept them. You were a boy who bore a wicked lash that should have never touche your skin or your mind. But now you are a man. You must tight the wrong done against you for shame destroys the soul. A Lady of Pleasure showcases Marvelle's unique voice and vision in romance novels.

This is another daring story with bold and vivid characters. Mar 19, Jen Davis rated it it was amazing. A deliciously angsty hero; a heroine who is steadfast, loyal and knows her own heart. Fabulous sexual tension and a love story to pull on the heartstrings. Simply put, this book rocked my socks off.

In her letter to readers at the before the story begins, Delilah Marvelle says the publishing industry has no place for a book like this one. Perhaps the industry needs its head examined, because this book gave me absolutely everything I want in a historical romance. Let me give A deliciously angsty hero; a heroine who is steadfast, loyal and knows her own heart. Let me give you the setup. Lady Caroline knew she was in love with Ronan, the Marquess of Caldwell, when she was only 13 years-old.

The dashing 24 year-old was her brother's friend, but he quickly made a special place in his life just for her. They had a standing weekly card game for years. They talked; they valued one another; they were friends in the truest sense of the world.

Delilah Marvelle Book List - FictionDB

But circumstances forced Caroline to move away at She professed her love before she left, but it was clear he still saw her as a child. Fast forward three years. When she returns, Caroline is most definitely grown, and ready to pursue Caldwell's hand. And when he sees her, he can't help but react as any man would to her beauty. The problem is, he doesn't want to soil the one true and good thing in his life.

He has a dark secret that keeps him from forming real relationships. I won't spoil it, but suffice it to say, it leaves him feeling unworthy of Caroline and unwilling to pursue anything beyond friendship. But fate and the interference of others won't let that be enough. Ah, I loved Caldwell so. Marvelle has constructed such a marvelous tortured hero in him. He is so sure he isn't good enough for Caroline; so unaware of his own feelings; so It would have been so easy to make her naive or weak-willed because of her age or her consuming devotion.

But she respects herself too much to be walked on; and at the same time is so unwavering and true. I loved her almost as much as I loved him. There is great chemistry. My only small complaint is that Caldwell's issues resolved a little faster than I would have liked, and much of it, off page. I would have liked to see more of his "education" at the school of gallantry, but perhaps, some of the events there happened in previous books.

I must go and read the backlist to find out. If books one and two are anywhere as good as this one, they will definitely be worth the read. I couldn't put this one down. Aug 08, Margaret Foxe rated it liked it Shelves: I am a big fan of Delilah Marvelle. Her novels are consistently good, with great story lines and great heat in the bedroom. That said, this book had one big problem. I was really shaking my head when the heroine rushed off to that house party, knowing the kind of scum that would be there.

She really was clueless about her own safety and the possible I am a big fan of Delilah Marvelle. She really was clueless about her own safety and the possible outcome of her actions. I really felt sorry for the hero when he realizes what he'd done to her at the party. The heroine's anger towards the hero was a bit much, too, knowing how conflicted he felt before she tricked him into bed. And that is never a good way to win over your man, by tricking him into bed, by the way. She was lucky he loved her so much and was ultimately willing to work things out between them. She really infuriated me.

On the other hand, I liked the hero a lot. He had a tragic backstory but still managed to become a decent person. Just like in lots of romance novels, I liked the hero way more than the heroine. I wish writers in this genre would work on making the heroine as compelling as the hero. When that rarity happens, I gladly bestow five stars! May 04, Shh I'm reading! I was first introduced to Marvelle with Mistress of Pleasure and really enjoyed it.

It was a historical romance that finally embraced people as being the flawed beings they are, and didn't shy away from the taboo aspects of sexuality generally ignored in historical romance. Now that she is finally continuing the series I had to scoop up Lady of Pleasure and loved it as well. Ronan, is a deeply scarred man, twelve years older than Caroline, the oldest sister in a scandalous, free-spoken family. Du I was first introduced to Marvelle with Mistress of Pleasure and really enjoyed it. Due to Ronan's scandalous nature, family history, and unfortunate lack of funds, he feels less than worthy of Caroline.

Caroline knows better and warns him that they will be wed by June. Their journey to true friendship and marriage was painful and sweet all at the same time. My only complaint was a need for some editing, but it was easily overlooked for Ronan and Caroline's quest for HEA.

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Others may be upset that they meet when Ronan is 25 and Caroline a mere However, I'd like to stress that nothing sexual happens between the 2 until years later and Ronan does not realize nonbrotherly feelings until later as well. Mar 25, Vanetta Quintana rated it it was amazing. I try not to put spoilers in my reviews.

I loved how this story began, for some reason it reminded me of me when I was younger.. I loved Caldwell from the previous book, and he is nothing like I thought he would be in this story… lol which is good, because Delilah keeps us on edge with her writing. Keep up the great work! Apr 12, Sondra rated it it was amazing. By far my favorite book in the Pleasure series!! I was afraid when I started this book that I would have to go back an re-read the other books because it has been a while since I last read them, but you DO NOT have to worry about it.

Publication Order of School of Gallantry Books

This book could easily stand alone but the great thing is that it doesnt have too, and if anything I really want to go back even more now to re-read the others!! The main character in this book, Caroline is one of the best heroine's I have read about in a long time. Delilah Marvelle should open such a school as many man nowadays could use one!! She is a phenomenal writer and after you read one book you will be salivating at the mouth in anticipation of the next book coming out!! Mar 23, Nancy Goodman rated it it was amazing.

I have a new romance hero and his name is Rohan Caldwell. Caroline has loved him since she was a child, but Caldwell is too busy trying to shore up his finances and push away intimacy. This is a story of sexual abuse and redemption, of hope and love. You need to carve out time to curl up with this book and if yo I have a new romance hero and his name is Rohan Caldwell.

You need to carve out time to curl up with this book and if you have a bowl of strawberries you'll understand when you read the book more's the better. A wonderful, wonderful read. Apr 12, Michele Lacroix rated it really liked it Shelves: What can I say, but I loved this book and it was hard for me to put it down at night.