Lorraine Heath ends her bestselling Sins for All Seasons series with the hero readers have been waiting for!She wants lessons in seduction
Althea Stanwick was a perfect lady destined to marry a wealthy lord, until betrayal left her family penniless. Though she’s lost friends, fortune, and respectability, Althea has gained a scandalous plan. If she can learn to seduce, she can obtain power over … learn to seduce, she can obtain power over men and return to Society on her terms. She even has the perfect teacher in mind, a man whose sense of honor and dark good looks belie his nickname: Beast.
But desire like this can’t be taught
Benedict Trewlove may not know his parentage but he knows where he belongs—on the dark side of London, offering protection wherever it’s needed. Yet no woman has ever made such an outrageous request as this mysterious beauty. Althea is out of place amongst vice and sin, even if she offers a wicked temptation he can’t resist. But as the truth of his origin emerges at last, it will take a fierce, wild love to overcome their pasts.
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Such a beautiful story! I’ve truly loved this series and this was a lovely ending to it. The shame that each character ensured by their respective societies was different and get it was similar. It was so interesting how the author drew parallels between the two remarkably different worlds. The romance was also so sweet and i enjoyed watching it unfold. Very good book. #netgalley #beautytemptsthebeast
After reading “…Takes a Fancy,” I was waiting with baited breath for this one. I wasn’t disappointed. I only wish there were more men like Beast in this day and age. Older ones might be nice, too. Romantic is really a mild word for it; I like reading them over — this is one of them (over and over and over . . .).
So honest moment here, I’ve only read the 4th & 5th book in this series prior to this one. I really liked those books but hadn’t had time yet to get to the first 3 before reading this one. Even though I’ve only read half of them, I’m gonna miss this series. I look forward to going back and reading the ones I missed. I loved getting Beast’s story. it was just what I needed for him. There was a slow burn to it but I would have liked to get some kinda conflict earlier than what we did. Other than that I enjoyed this book a lot. The epilogue was worth the read alone. Do not miss it!
Beauty Tempts the Beast by Lorraine Heath is book 6 in the Sins for All Seasons Series. This is the story of Benedict ‘Beast ‘ Trewlove and Althea ‘Thea’ Stanwick. I have read the previous books but feel this is a standalone book. Thea has fallen on hard times and is no longer the privileged young women of the town. So she finds herself working at the Mermaid and Unicorn bar. There she meets Beast who is a leader in the dark underworld. They end up talking and Thea comes up with the thought that if Beast could train her she could become a mistress. Being a mistress would allow her to enter back into her world of course as a different part of society and to bring back money. Beast doesn’t feel that she is suited for his dark world but he can’t seem to stop the growing feelings for her…nor she to him.
Enjoyed their story.
Althea Stanwick was a perfect lady until her father the Duke committed treason against the crown. The family lost everything, their lands, their wealth and their way of life. Now living in Whitechapel she earns her living until “Beast” propositions her. He wants her to teach the ladies he know about refinement and manners so they can hopefully get self-respecting jobs like a companion or governess. What he doesn’t expect is she has her own bargain in mind for him to teach her to be a courtesan. A bargain he has trouble keeping, he becomes very protective of her, trying to keep his thought and feeling from intruding and getting in the way of their. I love them they are perfect for each other, both needing unconditional love and respect. I have voluntarily read and reviewed the excellent book.
I thoroughly enjoyed Beauty Tempts the Beast! The chemistry between Thea and Ben is undeniable and I was so happy to see Beast find true love. This was a sweet, slow burn and I savored every page. And that epilogue was perfection! Sad to see this series end but I”m looking forward to reading about Thea’s brothers.
ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I have been waiting for this book since the first mention of Beast. Any hero named Beast is a hero I want to know everything about. This book did not disappoint! Beast aka Benedict Trewlove, doesn’t know who his parents are. He was dropped off at a baby farmer that decided to keep him (along with many others). Beast has watched his adoptive brothers and sisters find love and family. He feels lonely.. That’s when he notices that the new barmaid doesn’t belong. Althea (Thea) Stanwick was kicked out of her home in the middle of the night and found work as a barmaid.
I loved these two. Thea was very headstrong. She decided that she didn’t want to belong to any man.. so she fought her attraction to Ben. Ben has always been one of my favorite of the Trewlove siblings. He just seemed so sweet! I loved that he got his HEA… even if Thea wasn’t exactly what I wanted for him.
Thank you netgalley for my copy!
This book was delightful. It kept me turning pages until way too late at night as it was hard to put down. Beauty Tempts the Beast is the story of Althea and Beast. Althea is the daughter of a Duke who was accused and hanged for treason leaving her and her brothers to re-invent their lives. She finds a job serving as a waitress where she meats Beast…a both respected and feared man. What I loved most about Beast was how kind he is. And Althea is so strong. She takes a horrid situation and finds a way to move on. The pairing of these two is just fantastic. This was my first book by Heath but the 6th in her Sins for All Seasons series and it read just fine as a standalone. That being said, the first five instantly went on my TBR list. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes a good historical that takes place primarily outside the ballrooms of London.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for an ARC of this book. The opinions here are my own.
It’s a little hard to write a review for this book. I started it and was immediately drawn into the story of the final Trewlove child, Benedict, aka Beast, and Althea. Althea was a lady but her family lost everything and now she’s working as a barmaid at Benedict’s sister’s tavern. Benedict is quickly intrigued by this lady who is very out of place and attracted to her. He decided to hire her to train the ladies of the night that he offers protection to in how to be respectable. Althea, however, decides that she wants lessons in seduction from Beast. It sounds a little complicated but these arrangements are quickly and concisely laid out in the book. I got to that point and then real life got rough and I ended up stopping and starting the book. Honestly, I pushed through because I knew I would enjoy it but just wasn’t in the right mental state for the book. I know this book is good because, despite my mental state, the last 20% griped me and pulled me right back into the story. I went from reading it to finish and write my review to being unable to put it down because I wanted things to work out for Althea and Benedict.
This was a really satisfying end to the series and yet set up a series for Althea’s brothers. Benedict especially was so caring and respectful that I couldn’t help but fall for him. Althea has had life kick her down but she’s dusted herself off and come up with a plan to move forward and create a future for herself. The attraction between them is palatable and sexy and yet respectful. Even more though is how they came to love and trust each other.
Overall, this was a lovely story and I wished I had been in the right mindset for most of the book. I have a feeling a reread is due at some point and that I will enjoy it from start to finish that time.
*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
A great story of Althea, a lady who is shunned by society after her father is hung for treason, and Beast, a bastard brought up in the Trewlove family in the slums. Ben (Beast) protects her in the slums and she helps him reform ladies of the night. They fall in love and fate intervenes to try to take them apart. Can’t wait to read the next series which starts with her brother Griffith’s story! I received an ARC from NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for my honest review.
Just a wonderful book and a wonderful conclusion to the series. I loved the relationship between the hero and heroine. Their attraction to each other was deep and genuine. I love how they talked things out when conflict arose. I love that the misunderstandings/misrepresentations were fairly quickly resolved. I loved the family connections between Ben and his foundling brothers and sisters. Plus, Ms. Heath has tickled our curiosity about the next series featuring the heroine’s brothers. Just a really excellent book.
ARC provided through Netgalley.
I am in love with Lorraine Heath’s writing and when I saw that the book of the mysterious and quiet Beast would be published I was eager to read. Beast doesn’t disappoint and yet he stole my heart that was Finn’s. Sorry, Finn, but I was seduced!
Benedict is the fifth member of the Trewlove family of bastards, always taciturn and of few words, arrives says what he needs and is already leaving. In this book, we will understand what made him the Beast he is. Lorraine presents all layers of his personality in a way that I was even more fascinated by him. A man with an altruistic heart and protective manner. He beats his eye on Althea, a waitress in his sister’s tavern, and knows at once that the woman does not belong there but that she can be very useful for the purpose that he imposes on himself.
Althea is a woman tired of depending on men and after suffering almost insurmountable humiliation she decides that she needs to own her body and money. For this, she and Beast will sign an unusual agreement that does not involve friendship or passion. But…Will these two suffering souls really be able to keep this agreement without falling in love?
At first, I was kind of shocked and stuck with Thea’s behavior but after she and Beast started to bond and she was stripped naked in the face of his affection I started to connect better with her.
An exciting, wonderful and touching book about self-discovery, about realizing your own worth and how to fight for it. Lorraine closes this series with jaw-dropping twists, with a surprising epilogue and with moments so sweet that they made me run to get the box of tissues (the surname Trewlove gained new outlines in this story thanks to an unforgettable Christmas. Oh my!).
I am already preparing myself psychologically for all the tension of the next duology that promises more tensions, intrigues and betrayals in addition to a lot of romance. I’m placing my bets on who will be the female protagonist.
I absolutely adored this exquisite Victorian romance!
Benedict – Beast – is the epitome of my ideal book hero. Equal parts wild Jason Momoa and refined Henry Cavill, he’s an intelligent man of the world with a heart as big as all England and shoulders wide enough to carry away all the problems that beset everyone lucky enough to be under his protection.
Thea is a readily-identifiable heroine, a woman whose life was completely shattered by her father’s actions yet she’s determined to hang on to the best of herself while finding a new path in life. I really enjoyed the way the author had Thea comparing and contrasting her former and current acquaintances, lifestyles, and moral compasses. She’s a wonderful example of feminine strength and resiliency.
Their beautiful romance would make even the most jaded cynic swoon! The story was expertly paced, giving us their growing love and passion as they discover each other’s hearts, then just as you think they’ve sailed over every hurdle, the most wonderful revelation turns out to be the most insurmountable obstacle. The first proposal was magnificent, but the second was so perfectly timed, so sublimely presented that I had to go back and reread it several times before moving on.
The way the entire Trewlove family was woven throughout this book – and added to as opportunity arose – was simply magical, drawing out the best of its characters despite having survived their Dickensian youth. My heart fairly melted at the reference to the young Trewloves’ family book club and how it probably influenced Ben’s later career. The secondary love story between Ewan and Mara in the book’s final quarter was told so briefly, yet so beautifully, and established a concrete foundation upon which Ben and Thea’s family could be built.
The author’s writing was enthralling, nimbly dancing between charming, romantic interludes and intense, commanding showdowns. Beast and Thea’s emotional journeys were precisely detailed, bringing tension, joy, grief, and hope vividly to life through characters that feel as real as lifelong friends. The use of firelight imagery was inspired, portraying Benedict as a man who would not only keep Thea’s fire burning but also give her the space and the freedom to light her own path. The insightful character studies and sophisticated vocabulary elevate this book above the standard historical romance. I especially appreciated the explanation at the end of how the author balanced her story’s fictional demands with the desire for historical accuracy.
I haven’t read the earlier books in the series (yet), but I wasn’t left hanging. This is not just a beautiful standalone, but as the last in the Trewlove family series, its epilogue, set some 36 years in the future, works as a brilliant, crowning glory for the entire family. This is the best Victorian romance I’ve read in a very long time, and I highly recommend it. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Althea Stanwick a duke’s daughter was engaged to marry a wealthy lord, until betrayal left her family penniless. Though she’s lost friends, fortune, and respectability, Althea has gained a scandalous plan. If she can learn to seduce, she can obtain power over men and return to Society on her terms.
Benedict Trewlove may not know his parentage but he knows where he belongs—on the dark side of London, offering protection wherever it’s needed. The pair meet when Althea is working as a barmaid in a Trewlove pub, Ben realises she is perfect for the job of tutor to several prostitutes he’s trying to find respectable jobs for.
This is the final book in the series & the book I’ve been waiting for. It could easily be read on its own but as ever with I series I personally have to read from the beginning. I adored Ben who was so honourable, caring, protective plus his manners were second to non. He fell hard & fast for Thea but even though she was spurned bu the ton he wouldn’t ruin her. I really liked Thea & admired her for making a new life for herself independent of her brothers so they could continue their quest. Together Ben & Thea were perfect for each other & their chemistry was electric. The road to their HEA wasn’t easy but it made for a brilliant read. I was taken on a roller coaster of emotions from laughing to crying. The icing on the cake was the epilogue, which was simply superb. I did have an unanswered question but reading the blurb at the end it seems it will be answered in a spin off series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Lorraine Heath is a master storyteller, and Beauty Tempts the Beast underscores that decisively. The final book of the roller coaster that is her Sins for All Seasons series, Beauty Tempts the Beast is an absolute gem of a story.
Althea Stanwick, previously of Mayfair, has found herself living precariously in Whitechapel, and perilously short on options. When Benedict Trewlove, known as Beast, proposes to hire her to train the women under his protection etiquette, she pushes the deal farther: he must teach her seduction, so that she can become a courtesan and master her own destiny. Against his better judgement, Beast agrees, but will the lessons prove to be too much for them both?
There are so many things I love about this book. All of the Trewloves come back and we get to spend time with all of them. A self-righteous lord gets put in his place. A snobby lady gets a big snub. Heath excels at building atmosphere – without using over-the-top descriptions, you still get such a sense of place, as if these were actual places you could visit, and in fact miss after you’re done reading.
The characters are just amazing in this book. I’ve been looking forward to Beast’s book since When a Duke Loves a Woman (book 2 of this 6-book series) and it was definitely worth the wait. Althea is wonderful – very clear-headed and yet still optimistic. I really enjoyed that Beauty Tempts the Beast didn’t have a “big misunderstanding” – the characters were open an honest with each other through it all.
I’m so very sorry to be done with the Trewlove family, it has been a wonderful series that I know I’ll be rereading again soon! I would absolutely recommend this book!
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you to HarperCollins/Avon and NetGalley.
Beauty Tempts the Beast is available 29 September 2020!
Beauty and the beast trope – yes, please. The characters in this story come to life. The respect that Beast shows for women is due to his bringing up by a wonderful mother. This lovely tale of Beauty (Althea) and Beast (Benedict) and their growing love is so well told and intriguing that I had a hard time putting the book down. The strength that is flowing through these two characters and his siblings is beautiful. I love these feel good stories. I cannot say enough about how much I loved reading this story.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I loved this story and the premise. Of course it is by Lorraine Heath and I have enjoyed every story she has ever writtten!
A baby left on the doorstep of a woman who cares for unwanted children and Benedict evolves. He grows into a man living on the dark side of London aiding and protecting woman who need help. He meets up with Althea, a barmaid he knows is or was a lady underneath. He strikes up a bargain with her to teach the women of a bawdy house manners so that they might make a better life. She in return wants lessons in seduction and Beast is the one to do it.
An enjoyable entertaining read that kept me in it’s grip until the end!
First and foremost, this is first time that I’ve read a Lorraine Heath book. And I was quite impressed because I don’t read historical very often anymore and I’m very particular when I do.
That being said this book was as I said surprising. It has a low angst level which I love sometimes. It’s written fairly well.
Benedict our beast uh, I mean hero is a lovable man for all his background. He is quite the gentleman which totally contradicts his reputation. I get why the heroine Althea appeal to him.
Though, I had a love hate relationship with her because she had selfish moments that got under my skin. Fair warning it took me a while to warm up to her.
Things changed when she started opening up to Benedict. You won’t even mind the conflict in the story, at least I didn’t. Thankfully it stay for very long. And the resolution was done properly.
Honestly, the book had me going, I didn’t even mind the slight spoilers for the previous books. I had no idea this was a series when I signed on to review it. It’s easy enough to follow that you won’t get confused.
Can be read as a stand-alone. I recommend this if you love a beauty and beast telling but you can’t decide who is which character.
Thanks to Netgalley and Avon books for the ARC.
I have to start by saying… I love this Hero (Beast/Ben/Benedict), he is a protective, caring man who made my heart melt. Each chapter I fell more and more in love with him. His heroine is Althea (Thea), who was a Lady, who lost the title and all her family’s possessions when her Father, a Duke, was involved in a plot to assassinate the Queen and was he was hung. Althea felt a burden to her brothers and wanted to try to be independent and earn her own way. This book is part of a series, which I did not read all the books, but after reading this story I do want to go back and read the other siblings’ stories. Lorraine Heath is a terrific writer who had me so into the story I sometimes forgot the time. I had to finish it as soon as I can. I loved the Epilogue; it was a nice happy finish. The author did set up future stories for Thea’s brothers, which I would like to read.
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley for my honest opinion.
4.5 stars
Althea Stanwick is the epitome of everything an aristocratic lady should be, but her father’s betrayal has left her family penniless and stripped of their titles and any honor they once had. Her plan for survival is now to learn the art of seduction so that she can attain some power over the men of society and return to that cutthroat world of her own accord. She’s just found the perfect man to teach her, a handsome and honorable man with the incongruous nickname of Beast.
Benedict Trewlove has no idea as to his own origins, but he’s comfortable with his position as the de facto ruler, and protector, of the darker side of London. He’s devoted much of his adult life to protecting and aiding women, but the request Althea puts to him is shocking. Ben knows Althea doesn’t belong in his world, but he’s more tempted by her than he’s ever been and it’s a struggle for him not to break his own rules against dallying with a woman who’s under his protection. But when Benedict learns who he really is, their newfound love will be sorely tested against new responsibilities and past mistakes.
This was quite a slow burn, but it was steaming right along and I loved it up until the point where Althea started pushing Ben away. Even though this is something I’m not crazy about and which typically is a major turn off for me, Althea’s reasons did make sense and she was for the most part always forthright with Ben about her feelings for him. The fact that she didn’t hide those feelings for too long was part of what saved this for me. As far as Ben is concerned, I adored him as a hero. He had a bit of everything going for him: tall, dark, and handsome; a little tortured; strong, silent type, and so noble. I adored him, especially when he allowed himself to be vulnerable. This was such a lovely way to finish out the Trewlove family’s stories and the epilogue gave me a lovely warm feeling. I’m so looking forward to the spin-off series and stories for Althea’s mysterious brothers.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.