Darling Beast (Maiden Lane)

When I read the first book by Elizabeth Hoyt, "The Raven Prince, I was so excited to find a wonderful new writer who wrote a terrific book. Great dialog, good plot and the scene at Aphrodite's Grotto between Anna and de Raaf--wonderful, sensuous, even erotic. The next two books in the series, "The Leopard Prince" and "The Serpent Prince" were equally good. Some of her following stories were very readable, but as this Maiden Lane series has gone on, the tales have become weaker, finally ending with the boring "Darling Beast". I cannot believe the same person wrote all the books, as "Beast" has so many flaws I cannot begin to list them all. The sex scenes are just mechanics, no real passion or giving the reader a feeling they can understand the attraction between the couple. The main story (there was a story, right?) was confusing to me and some paragraphs I needed to read over to grasp what the author was telling me. Many paragraphs repeated the same general knowledge. Usually I read Elizabeth's books in a day, however, today is day three and I still have not completed the book; that should tell you something. Many times I read four and five star reviews and wonder if I read the same book. Am I too critical? A book should have good dialog, have people one becomes invested in, be true to the period in which it was written and keep on track with the central theme with out too many side distractions. This was a book I should have passed on.

When I read the first book by Elizabeth Hoyt, "The Raven Prince, I was so excited to find a wonderful new writer who wrote a terrific book. Great dialog, good plot and the scene at Aphrodite's Grotto between Anna and de Raaf--wonderful, sensuous, even erotic. The next two books in the series, "The Leopard Prince" and "The Serpent Prince" were equally good. Some of her following stories were very readable, but as this Maiden Lane series has gone on, the tales have become weaker, finally ending with the boring "Darling Beast". I cannot believe the same person wrote all the books, as "Beast" has so many flaws I cannot begin to list them all. The sex scenes are just mechanics, no real passion or giving the reader a feeling they can understand the attraction between the couple. The main story (there was a story, right?) was confusing to me and some paragraphs I needed to read over to grasp what the author was telling me. Many paragraphs repeated the same general knowledge. Usually I read Elizabeth's books in a day, however, today is day three and I still have not completed the book; that should tell you something. Many times I read four and five star reviews and wonder if I read the same book. Am I too critical? A book should have good dialog, have people one becomes invested in, be true to the period in which it was written and keep on track with the central theme with out too many side distractions. This was a book I should have passed on.

I loved and enjoyed reading the intriguing and outstanding romantic historical novel written by the best selling author Elizabeth Hoyt. I received an autographed copy of the book from a Goodreads Giveaway.
Due to the theater being burned, Lily Stump, an out of work actress, her young son, Indio, her friend, Maude, and dog, Daff, live in the habitable part of the theater. Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne wrongly accused of murder, is an escaped convict from Bedlam hiding in the gardens attached to the theater. Indio meets Apollo and tells his mom all about the monster living in the garden who can't speak. When Lily goes to find Inio, she finds Apollo coming out of the water and is mesmerized by him. Indio sees Apollo as his special friend and names him Caliban. The more time Lily and Apollo spend together the harder it becomes to only remain friends.
Read the wonderfully written, highly recommended, must read love story of Lily and Apollo.

One of the Maiden Lane novels, Lily Stump, an actress is hiding out in a burned-out theater, when she runs out of money. With her is her son and a maid. There the 7 year-old happens on a man he labels a monster, but one who is kind to the boy. Apollo is that man, and not who he appears to be, but he's recently escaped a prison, having been thought to have murdered three of his friends.

Apollo is determined to find the real murderer to clear his name and perhaps receive his family title as well. Lily just wants to remain safe while she struggles to write yet another screenplay. All the others have been sold under her brother's name. Will this one also be so identified, giving him the money instead of Lily? And what if the father of her boy finds her? She doesn't trust him after what she knows about his first wife.

In the midst of all this angst, passion grows. But won't that place both Apollo and Lily in further danger? An exciting story set in the early 1800s.

I totally loved Ms. Hoyt's Prince's Series. While I haven't read the earlier books in the Maiden Lane Series, I will have to rectify that! This one was fabulous. I love that tortured hero trope and this one was worth every minute of reading. Apollo can't speak due to a horrible beating he endured when he was falsely imprisoned. He's escaped from Bedlam and is hiding out in a burned out theater and pleasure garden. He's bringing the garden back to it's former beauty, both because he loves seeing things grow, and because he's a part owner.

Lily is also living in the remaining part of the theater with her son and maid. She's a wonderful actress, but is down on her luck right now. Her son meets Apollo, but because he can't speak, he calls him Caliban, from The Tempest. (Side note, my daughter was just in a rendition of that play, playing one of the five Ariels.)

Lily and Apollo have a lot in common, but before they can find their HEA, he has to find his voice, discover who really killed his friends, and who framed him for their murders.

I enjoyed this very much. Ms. Hoyt's characters aren't stupid. They talk about their issues, well, when they have a voice! She doesn't just throw plot devices out there to extend the manuscript. The supporting characters here, her son, the maid, Apollo's co-owners of the pleasure garden and his in-laws are all a joy to read.

Happily, book 8 in this series, Dearest Rogue, comes out tomorrow, 5/26/2015! I'll have my review up then.

I highly recommend this book to lovers of historical romance.

Apollo Greaves has survived and escaped an insane asylum where he was incarcerated for murders he did not commit.

Lily is trying to come to terms with her financial, family and career responsibilities. Her young son discovers a beast (Apollo) in her garden. Apollo is unable to speak and appears wild (like a beast). They get to know and trust one another, and over time their romance develops. There is suspense in the story brought on by Apollo’s search for the criminal behind the murders Apollo is blamed for.

I recently finished reading “Thief of Shadows”, book 4 in this series. It is a 5 star book in my opinion. It had gripping suspense inspired by the danger, and an amazing sexual tension and sensual scenes between the hero and heroine. That book made my heart slam into my ribs. “Darling Beast” was good, but didn’t draw the same response from me.

For two thirds of “Darling Beast,” I found the reading experience slow-going and 2 star worthy. Then in the last third, Ms Hoyt had my full attention with a riveting declaration by Apollo, describing to Lily who he is now. That speech was SOOO good, I re-read it a few times before I could move on. It made my heart thunder. That speech floored me. Wow. From there, the pace and the love story rollicked along nicely and elevated the experience to 3 stars.

I enjoyed learning more about the secondary characters, Phoebe and Trevillion who are the protagonists in the next book in this series. Can’t wait to read that. There is an interesting, information gathering Duke of Montgomery in this novel and he is significant in the next 2 or 3 novels. What a deliciously twisted mind he has.

The Maiden Lane series is definitely enjoyable and well written.

*contains sex scenes.

Lily Stump or better known as Robin Goodfellow is an actress currently without a stage. Lily, along with her son and friend Maude are currently living in a badly fire damaged theatre while gardeners see to replanting and shaping up the also damaged pleasure gardens. Until the theatre is repaired Lily is making money by writing plays and having her brother sell them. Lily's life is not grand but her son Indio certainly makes it entertaining and one way Indio decides to shake things up is to befriend a Beast in the gardens, except the Beast turns out to be the mute head gardener who is really Viscount Apollo Kilbourne on the run from the King's guards as a convicted murder and escapee from Bedlam. Lily and Apollo have many reasons to keep their secrets well hidden but trusting each other might be the key to their survival.

Darling Beast is the seventh book in the Maiden Lane series but I do think it is perfectly fine to read as a standalone, I never felt lost or confused. However, while I didn't feel lost I did feel like I was missing the big payoff, as if Apollo was a character readers of the previous book had gotten to know and this was the deeply emotional happily ever after they had been waiting for. The first 40% was a bit slow moving for me, nothing externally is really happening but rather Apollo and Lily are dealing with internal complicated emotions for one another. It isn't until much later in the book that the scenery even changes and they escape the garden and theatre. Most of this is a character driven story, except for the lingering continuous story thread from the previous books involving Apollo's false murder conviction. When action ramps up in this regard the slow languid pace picks up and I started to get more involved in the story.

Lily and Apollo are both characters readers will like, if not have strong reactions to. Lily is struggling to make the best of the situation she currently finds herself in while finding herself curiously attracted (well, maybe with the way Apollo's chest looks while bathing not so curiously) to the stranger in the garden. Her guardedness, way she cares for Indio, and compassion towards Apollo make her a very sweet and strong character. Apollo's inner strength and continued pain from his confinement in Bedlam showcase a man who has been thrust into the fire only to emerge as finely forged steel. The delicateness each shows one another was the absolute strength of the novel. I must also say Ms. Hoyt knows how to write a bedroom scene (or table scene), it’s carnal without being vulgar and genuinely moving not salacious; which fits with the time period, flow, and mood of the story.

I received this book through a Goodreads Firstreads Giveaway and while I got lucky, the publisher is going to end up winning. With a few mentions in this one, I want to read Apollo's twin sister's story which is the previous book before this one but other readers have informed me that you must start at the beginning to get the full enjoyment of it, so I'm off to buy book one. I also must absolutely read Captain Trevillion’s (he originally arrested Apollo for the murders) story, the next book in the series. That makes one freebie book to five books to be purchased, well played publishers.

A MAN CONDEMNED . . .

Falsely accused of murder and mute from a near-fatal beating, Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne has escaped from Bedlam. With the Crown's soldiers at his heels, he finds refuge in the ruins of a pleasure garden, toiling as a simple gardener. But when a vivacious young woman moves in, he's quickly driven to distraction . . .

A DESPERATE WOMAN . . .

London's premier actress, Lily Stump, is down on her luck when she's forced to move into a scorched theatre with her maid and small son. But she and her tiny family aren't the only inhabitants-a silent, hulking beast of a man also calls the charred ruins home. Yet when she catches him reading her plays, Lily realizes there's more to this man than meets the eye.

OUT OF ASH, DESIRE FLARES

Though scorching passion draws them together, Apollo knows that Lily is keeping secrets. When his past catches up with him, he's forced to make a choice: his love for Lily . . . or the explosive truth that will set him free.

The little boy and his dog definitely stole the show in this story. Don't get me wrong Elizabeth Hoyt definitely created a memorable hero and heroine but Lily's little boy and his faithful companion burrowed into my heart from the first glimpse of their mischievous natures. An actress and an escapee from Bedlam might not sound like the ideal lead couple for a love story but that is exactly what they are. This author has the amazing skill to combine delightful characters with dazzling historical settings and beautiful descriptions to provide fairy tale escapes from our nine-to five lives. I was so very happy to see that Apollo Greaves was getting his own story after reading his sister's story I knew he needed to share his. I loved this author’s style and I cannot wait to read the continuing adventures of these characters.

I'm loving this series by Elizabeth Hoyt! Once again, she's written some characters that have stolen my heart. I also enjoy reading those little stories at the beginning of every chapter.

The hero in this story is Apollo Greaves. He is pure sin just waiting to happen. I really love that he is unable to speak in the first part of the book. I find him seductive and totally sexy (even though he is written to not be very good looking), I look past all that. He captures my heart by how he befriends Indio AND Daffodil, the way he oozes sex appeal around Lily (the heroine), and how he is just pure MALE.

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"I'm sorry it ever happened to you," he whispered, catching her chin and lifting her face to his. "No one should have to bear witness to the worst that men can do, and especially not you."

Her lips curved in amusement. "Especially me? Why should I be sheltered in particular?"

"Because," he said, pulling her into his lap, "you are my light and my laughter, and if you would let me, I would spend the rest of my life protecting you from everything that is ugly."

"That can't be done," she whispered. "To live is to see both the beauty and the ugliness of life."

"Perhaps not," he said stubbornly, "but that wouldn't stop me from trying. Every day I want to see your eyes alight with happiness."
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Lily is a great heroine. She's easy to like and enjoy. She's not overly emotional like some heroines. She loves Indio and is a wonderful mother. She's smart and I love the fact she writes amazing plays. She and Apollo take things slow (love this in a story!) and develop a steamy relationship. The love scenes are wonderful.

I highly recommend this book if you enjoy a fantastic historical romance. It has a little bit of everything from action, murder, suspense, and humor. I love when humor is throughout a book. And a sweet little dog by the name of Daffodil had me laughing more times than I could count! This seriously didn't take me long to read. I was finished before I wanted to be.

Lily Stump is London's best actress, or her alter-ego, Robin Goodfellow, is. However, she recently signed a contract with a new theater causing her to be blacklisted for everyone else. Then said theater burns down and she is out of work and so broke that she has no other choice than to live in the ruins of the burned theater while it's being renovated. When her son stumbles upon a beast of a man working in the gardens, she is scared at first. After all, the man is huge and could easily harm her and her family. But there is obviously more than meets the eye and she finds herself fascinated with him. She's right on that account. Apollo's life is beyond complicated. In fact, he is currently hiding in this garden and working as a simpleton because he is on the run from the law. He escaped Bedlam several months ago, after being sentenced for murders he did not commit. He knows he needs to stay far away from Lily, despite how alluring she is, because fraternizing with her can only lead to trouble. Can the two fight their desires or will they find a way to make it work?

Lily is a bit of an oddity for a historical romance novel heroine. Normally, we get the innocent debutante or spinster. Sometimes we even get the widower whose husband was a dismal lover that never managed to please her. Lily is none of those things. Lily is an actress. For those of you who read historical romances, you know that actresses exist outside of normal society limits and are much more promiscuous. Lily is not the shy virgin. Lily does not lack the knowledge a maiden would. That was very refreshing. From the moment she lays eyes on Appollo, she knows exactly what it is she is feeling and what it means she wants. Not fumbling or explanation necessary. I really enjoyed her character. I liked how down to Earth she seemed and her constant worry over Indio, her son. She's strong and smart, with enough witty banter to write plays of her own (under an assumed name, naturally). She's quite the perfect heroine for this tale.

Apollo was also a bit different. For starters, he's mute for a good bit of the novel. Trauma in Bedlam cause him to lose his voice and it was interesting how much conversation you can get through with just facial expressions. Beyond his inability to speak, it was great watching an aristocrat who thoroughly enjoys manual labor. He works so hard on this garden and even though he's on the run, he still manages to find a job that he loves. I'm fascinated by that. I can't do plants. I have had a singular plant in my life and it died rather quickly. I over water or under water or don't give it enough sun or too much sun or SOMETHING. I just don't understand them. Beyond that, it's just obvious that he is intelligent and innocent and I just wanted to see him get justice and his name cleared. I'm not usually a sucker for the strong silent type, I tend to lean towards the slim chatty boy next door, but somehow Apollo still stole my heart.

Plotwise is where I had my issue. It was very entertaining and well thought out and explained, but the tale end of it just felt a bit rushed. You find out all the twists and then the novel is over. You don't get a grace period to really absorb the ending, it's just done. Hope you enjoyed it! The thing is, I did enjoy it, and that means I want more. It means I want a bit more falling action. It means I want to see my character enjoy their happy ending just a bit before the curtains close.

What I loved about it was....well, everything else. I loved the characters and how down-to-earth they were. Even though Apollo is an aristocrat by birth, circumstances have taken the snooty attitude out of the equation. If you didn't know better, you'd never assume he was more than a skilled gardener. I loved that Lily wasn't just boxed into a standard HR heroine role. Hoyt gives us something a little more out there and a little more controversial than just that. And then there is Indio, who should come off as an annoying kid, but is totally endearing. That little boy stole my heart before Apollo even had the chance.

Beyond the little blip, though, this was pretty great. I've never read anything by Elizabeth Hoyt before, but I'm definitely planning on reading more by her in the future. Her writing is witty, the banter is hilarious, and she gives you just enough drama to keep you guessing. In a romance, it's given that the main duo are going to end up together, but it's nice to get a bit of that will-they-or-won't-they thing going. It makes it even harder to put down....even when it's really late at night and you're eyes are literally falling down between paragraphs because you're so tired. That's what you get here, a compelling read that keeps you desperate for just one more chapter!

****Thank you to Piatkus for providing me with a physical copy in exchange for an honest review****

You might think that an author would begin to run out of ideas when she reaches the seventh volume in a series. In Elizabeth’s Hoyt’s case, however, you would be wrong. In Darling Beast she takes the Maiden Lane series into a new neighborhood with new characters while at the same time tying the story in with the earlier books.

In Duke of Midnight, Apollo Greaves escaped from his wrongful incarceration in Bedlam, with the help of his sister Artemis and his new brother-in-law, the Duke of Wakefield. Now he is living in a shed on the grounds of Harte’s Folly, a pleasure garden and theater that was nearly destroyed by fire. Mr. Harte is helping Apollo hide while Apollo is designing and building a new garden.

Lily Stump moves into the few habitable rooms left in the theater with her seven-year-old son, Indio, and nursemaid, Maude. Lily is a well-known actress but since she is under contract to Harte and since he has no theater in which she can perform, she is short on funds. When Indio, tells her that there is a monster living in the gardens, she laughs it off – until one day she sees the monster for herself as he emerges unclothed from a pool.

Lily is immediately suspicious of her son’s new friend. Apollo is unable to speak because of injuries he suffered in Bedlam. When Lily tries to question him, he can’t reply, and she thinks that he is simple-minded. Because he is hiding from the law and doesn’t know if he can trust Lily, he allows her to assume that he is just another one of the laborers hired to work for Harte.

Despite his mother’s warnings, however, Indio and his naughty dog, Daffodil, can’t stay away from the pond, and when Apollo rescues Daff after she fell into the water, Lily begins to realize that there is more to Apollo than she first thought.

Through much of the book, Apollo cannot speak, but he begins to communicate with Lily by writing. She has no idea that he is a fugitive nor that he is the heir to an earldom. Indio and Daff bring the couple together, in a way that is utterly charming. Cute children and animals are not something that every author can do well, but Hoyt excels here.

Another appealing element of this book is that nearly half of the story takes place in the garden, and even though it is ruined there is something rather enchanting about the place. Apollo is a true landscape gardener, and he sees what no one else can, as in this scene (after Apollo begins to regain his voice):

“Where are we?”
“The heart,” he said, his voice low and rasping. “The very . . . heart of my future garden . . . the center of the maze.”
She shivered at his words. This place didn’t look any different from anywhere else in the garden, but garden hearts, she supposed, like human hearts, could be disguised.
“I can’t see it,” she said.
He took a step toward her and turned her to face the same way as he, her back against his chest. “Here,” he said, wrapping his arms over her shoulders to hold her hands. “There’ll be a folly . . . of some sort right here . . . beneath our feet. A fountain or . . . waterfall or statue. Benches for lovers to sit and . . . kiss. The entrance will be over here” — he pointed to a space to the right — “and the maze . . . will wind all around us . . . like an embrace.”
Slowly he turned with her, tracing with his outstretched hand his imaginary maze.
“You have so much faith,” she whispered.
She felt him shrug behind her. “It’s there already . . . just waiting for the right person . . . to find it and bring it alive,” he said softly in her ear. “A maze . . . is eternal, you know, once discovered.”

It wouldn’t be Maiden Lane, though, if we didn’t have some danger and darkness. Apollo is desperate to find the person who actually committed the murders for which he was accused. The soldiers are on his trail. And Captain Trevillion, even though he has been invalided out of the army, is grimly determined to see Apollo back in Bedlam, while the real murderer has plans to pin one last crime on him. And Indio’s mysterious parentage actually may place him in danger.

In addition to Trevillion, other Maiden Lane characters are part of this story – Maximus and Artemis, of course, Hero and Phoebe, and even the absent Makepeace sibling, Asa. An intriguing and rather outrageous new character, the Duke of Montgomery, is introduced, and it isn’t clear whether he is friend or foe.

I think that Darling Beast is the most romantic book in this series, and I recommend it unreservedly. If you’ve read the previous Maiden Lane books, you definitely will not want to miss this one. And even if you haven’t read them, this touchingly tender story works just fine as a stand-alone.

After being falsely accused of murder and spending 4 years in Bedlam, Apollo Greaves escapes with a little help from the Ghost of St. Giles. A beating has left him unable to speak and he poses as a simple gardner on the grounds of the ruined Hart’s Folley. The authorities are still looking for him and he must figure out who really murdered his friends before they find him. Things get complicated when celebrated actress Lily Stump and her son take temporary refuge in his garden.

Another wonderful installment of the Maiden Lane series! I have been waiting patiently for Apollo’s story since last year. After reading Duke of Midnight, I knew that Apollo’s story was going to be a good one and I was not disappointed.

Apollo was an intriguing character from the first. My heart broke for him in Duke of Midnight. Bedlam is not a kind place and knowing that he was innocent made it even worse. Even after he managed to escape, he still has to stay in hiding, lest he be found out. Most men would have turned mad or bitter after what happened to him. But Apollo is neither. Slightly wary to be sure but he never loses himself. Though he seems uncivilized, he remains a gentleman at heart, a loyal and deeply caring person.

Lily Stump is an unusual heroine, an actress, playwright and single mother. I loved how independent and smart she was. Even though she has recently fallen on tough times, it’s clear that Lily is a resourceful woman who can take care of herself and her family.

I loved the slow build up of their romance. Apollo is mute for a good portion of the book but still found ways to express himself. Lily was able to see past Apollo’s rough veneer to the good man inside, a man that perhaps even Apollo thought was lost. And Lily, though a celebrated actress, still lives on the fringes of society because of her profession. However, status doesn’t matter to a man like Apollo and he loves Lily just as she is. The two make a fantastic pair. Hoyt has a knack for putting together unlikely couples and making them work perfectly. I also loved little Indio. He and Daffy the dog are a hilarious, troublemaking team and I adored them both.

I closed this book with a happy sigh. Darling Beast is dark and sensual romance that is also very sweet and funny. Hoyt’s Maiden Lane series is one of my favorite romance series and it continues to delight and entertain. I eagerly await each installment and savor them once they are released. The next book, Dearest Rogue, stars Lady Phoebe Batten and Captain James Trevillon! I think fans have been waiting for this book for a long time and I, for one, cannot wait.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affected my review or opinion of the book.

Originally Reviewed for Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy.

Elizabeth Hoyt is back with one of my favorite series, her Maiden Lane Series. Darling Beast is Book 7 in this fabulous series, set in the backstreets of London in the 1730's. No sweet regency series this, it's dark and gritty filled with some of man's worst vices. And yet Elizabeth manages to bring love and triumph amongst those who dare to venture too far into the darkness.

Lily Stump is considered one of London's sweethearts. A rising star, an actress that is desired as both an actress and a woman. But when tragedy hits she finds herself without a job, without a home and without many friends. Her theatre has been burned to the ground and she remains jobless until it can be rebuilt, fortunately for her, she is allowed to take her small rag-tag family (what is left of it) and live in the shell of the theater. Life could be simple but Lily has her secrets and one of them is her son. No one needs to know about him! She is trying to live a quiet unobtrusive life but her son has found a beast in the gardens and Lily discovers that this beast is more than she ever dreamed of.

Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne has escaped the madhouse, literally. He was severely beaten and has been left voiceless in the darkness. The only thing that brings him pleasure is the pleasure gardens he is designing. Acting as a senseless worker, Apollo is rebuilding the grounds around the theater. A theater he is secretly part owner of. When a lonely young boy finds him intriguing, Apollo finds himself part of a rather strange little family. When that boy's lovely mother makes an appearance, Apollo finds another reason to live.

Watching these two wounded souls fall in love was heartwarming. Both have been used and deceived and find little to believe in and yet when they meet, there is magic!

Once again Elizabeth Hoyt gives us more than a cookie cutter romance. These two have dreams that have been shattered. Have little reason to trust and yet find themselves in a place where trusting each other is their only choice, only chance.

The mystery of who betrayed Apollo is devious and delightful. Watching Apollo find his nemesis and become the man he was supposed to be brings such joy. He is the butterfly emerging from the cocoon. He is the one whose transformation from beast to man is what makes this story beautiful. Lily, is a dream for him and she makes it worth the fight!

Thanks Elizabeth.. this is one of those books that I can not say enough about.

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of Darling Beast, provided by netgalley

~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

As a fan of this series, I was thrilled to hear about DARLING BEAST. It’s somewhat of a Beauty and the Beast type story in a way, but it’s more than that too. And I think the main reason I fell in love with this book was because of Apollo Greaves.

Apollo is the Viscount Kilbourne. He was falsely accused of murder and then was beaten so bad, he is now mute. He hides his identity as a gardener now but when a curious child and his dog find him working, he lures his beautiful mother towards Apollo.

At first it doesn’t start out good. Lily Stump is scared of him. Everytime she tries to speak to him, he never returns an answer so she instantly becomes suspicious of him as any mother would when their child has become fascinated by a strange man. However, there’s this charming quality that Hoyt infuses in her books and in this particular one, it stems from Indio’s presence. He and his dog, Daff are the two things that bring Lily and Apollo together. While their romance starts off slow, it blooms into something really beautiful.

While I instantly fell in love with Apollo, it took me a little longer to like Lily. I think it’s because she was so wary of him at first that it put me off somewhat. She thinks him daft because he doesn’t speak. And when she warms Indio away from him, I tried not to see it as her being mean but as a mother being protective of her child. But after the miscommunication is gone, I found that I really enjoyed her.

I’m quite impressed by this story because I think it’s very hard to right a mute hero that “speaks” to you as a reader. We’re so used to alpha heroes who tell you what they want, but Apollo is more than that. I loved the way Hoyt approached this book.

DARLING BEAST has delivered one of my new favorite Historical Romance heroes. If you’re intrigued by mute heroes, you definitely cannot miss out on this one. Just remember, Apollo is mine ;)

*ARC provided by publisher

An absolute delight of a read that was both darkly mysterious and sweetly romantic, Darling Beast was a fantastic historical romance. From start to finish, it was an amazing read and I enjoyed it all the way through. Loved it!

Lily was a different heroine. She was a famous actress, unashamed of her history of lovers, and determined not to be treated less because of her station. I found her to be a very likable character. She was vivacious, independent, kind, and knew to look past surface appearances. I thought she was great.

Apollo was an interesting character. After being falsely accused of murder, he spent years in Bedlam before managing to escape to find the real murderer and clear his name. Rather than his experiences making him bitter, they made him determined to be a better person. Knowing everything he went through, he was a sympathetic character right off the bat but, as the book went on, I started to like him even more. He was very sweet and clever, wanting to be more than just a lazy aristocrat. Contrary to his intimidating size, he was gentle and kind and and overall good man. He was just wonderful and I adored him.

The romance was lovely. Lily and Apollo might have looked like an unlikely couple at first glance, but they were perfect together. They were both more than they appeared and they both understood that about each other. And the chemistry between them was sensuous and definitely turned the heat up. I thought they were a perfect couple.

The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. The question of who was behind the murders drove the plot as Apollo tried to find the real murderer to clear his name and kept thing interesting. And, there were a few secrets that took me by surprise. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was wonderful.

Darling Beast was a fantastic historical romance. Another great addition to the brilliant Maiden Lane series, this book was excellent. Romance lovers, this is a book you won't want to miss.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

I love Elizabeth Hoyt’s Maiden Lane series and was over the moon when she announced that she had signed a contract for a further three books. In this series, she always creates dark, edgy stories; compelling, unique characters; sensual romance and smouldering love scenes. This is the seventh book in the series and continues the story of Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne who was introduced in the previous book, DUKE OF MIDNIGHT.

From his first appearance, it’s obvious Apollo is not going to be your stereotypical hero. I adore those arrogant, handsome rakes but there was something very appealing about this gentle giant of a man, especially knowing how much he had suffered during his four years incarcerated in Bedlam for a crime he did not commit. After the brutal, inhuman treatment he suffered, it was hard to imagine that he could have retained even an ounce of humanity but he did. His kindness and compassion is so clearly revealed in his relationship with Lily’s son, Indio. I love their scenes together, seeing the trust and affection growing between them.

The scene where they play ‘hit that knot’ (if you want to know what sort of game it is, I’m afraid you’ll have to read the book!) was so funny!

Apollo is unable to speak for a proportion of the book because of an injury sustained in Bedlam. I have never come across a mute hero before but I’m sure it must be difficult for an author to convey the hero’s thoughts without using dialogue. Ms Hoyt handled this aspect so well and it definitely added a different element to the story.

I’m not a gardener but I was totally captivated by Apollo’s genuine enthusiasm for his ideas and designs. He is not afraid to get his hands dirty and I loved that about him.

Lily is a famous comedy actress…bold, intelligent, caring, independent and experienced in the ways of the world. Life isn’t exactly easy for her because, in the aftermath of the fire that destroyed Harte’s Folly, she is out of work. I admired her efforts to keep her little family, son Indio and maid Maude, together. Lily is a devoted and protective mother to Indio but she hides a secret that could be a threat to him. I like Maude who isn’t afraid to speak her mind where Lily is concerned. She seems more of a surrogate mother than a maid. They are such a charming little family group and I love their interactions.

Lily is not only a famous actress but also a talented playwright although, because of the conventions of the day, her plays are published under her brother’s name. There is a delightful scene when Apollo comes upon her acting out one of her comedy plays. It was easy to visualise all her varied facial expressions and hear the different inflections in her voice….so funny.

In this series, Ms Hoyt has paired the most unlikely couples but the romance has always worked beautifully as it does here. I love how Lily looks beyond Apollo’s outward appearance to see the gentle, honourable man beneath. Even when she believes him to be a simpleton, she treats him with compassion. Apollo isn’t afraid to tell Lily that he loves her and doesn’t give a damn about bloodlines. While Ms Hoyt writes super steamy love scenes, it was the intimate moments of tenderness and understanding that I really enjoyed.

There is a strong supporting cast of characters that add extra vibrancy to the story. Indio and Daffodil are complete scene stealers while, at long last, I have an explanation for Asa Makepeace’s mysterious disappearances in the earlier books. The obvious tension between Lady Phoebe Batten and Captain Trevillion bodes well for their book, DEAREST ROGUE, and I’m hoping the mysterious, scheming, manipulative Duke of Montgomery gets his own book too.

There is plenty of danger and suspense as Apollo keeps one step ahead of the Crown’s men and attempts to track down the person responsible for his friends’ murders. It builds to an exciting climax in which Apollo receives some rather unexpected help.

What can I say, other than another wonderful addition to a fabulous series.

REVIEW RATING: 5/5 STARS

SENSUALITY RATING: HOT!

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

First off, I totally enjoyed this book. Ms Hoyt has outdone herself in writing a absolutely brilliant and awesome story. You get a sense of a truly special work of art that show when she grabs the reader's attention. The characters were not copy cutouts but ones in which we can identify. You will love the hero Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne, who is one hot handsome hunk. He is falsely accused of murdering his three friends during a night of drinking. He then is put in chains and taken to Bedlam without no escape. The pain the man suffered at the hands of his tormentors making him almost insane. But finally Apollo escapes but now he has no voice to speak with. He finds refuge at the pleasure gardens while hiding from the Crown's soldiers. He then commences to work at the ruins as a simple gardener.
It's a lonely existence for one such a he, but one day a simple lady will change his life.
Her name is Lily Stump along with her son and maid have landed on hard times. She is living at the burned out theater near the gardens, writing her plays in which to support her family. Lily, an acclaimed actress, just wants to work even if she must share her home with a silent beast of a man. She thinks the man is touched in the head, until she catches him reading one of her plays.
Then she is able to see there is more to this man that meets the eye. Soon, they become lovers, because it is love they feel. Apollo must protect the only woman who believes him not the monster others proclaim him to be. He must find the real killer so he and his precious Lily can be together. He will do anything to keep that love secure, because it's in his destiny.

4.5 stars, actually.

This is a bodice ripper historical romance with all the right style. Hoyt gives us a loose retelling of Beauty and the Beast a la the Minotaur in the Maze (or the wounded aristocrat on the lam rebuilding a ruined pleasure garden). She gives us little gifts of minor appearances of other Maiden Lane characters, along with introducing some more intriguing characters to carry on the series (presumably).

Lily is an actress and playwright. She's living in the aforementioned ruined garden with her crusty old nanny (full of hobgoblin tales), son, a hopelessly floppy italian greyhound, and a week to write her next play.

One day her son comes back and tells Lily "there's a monster in the garden." Hijinks ensue. There's the romance, the mysteries of how and why Apollo lost his voice and why he's on the lam, the mystery surrounding the son's blue/green eyes, money pressures, and family intrigue.

What makes this so great is that the characters are just fun to be around. There's the lovely, alpha male romance as well, but really its the interactions between all the minor characters that Hoyt does so well. I love the Maiden Lane series and was verra happy indeed to see Hoyt setting up encounters to continue the series with Phoebe and Trevillion and the mysterious, foppy, snarky Lord Montgomery.

Can be read as a standalone, but I completely recommend reading the series in order so you can enjoy meeting up again with characters from prior books.

When I first started reading ‘Darling Beast’ I wasn’t really sure what I could expect. I love romantic stories but I sometimes I have a little trouble in liking books written in another era. Thankfully, ‘Darling Beast’ grabbed my intention very soon and I really liked this book. I especially liked Apollo’s character. He was such a strong and sad men and I could easily imagine how Lily would have fallen in love with him. What I also really loved was how Apollo treated Indio. He made a damn good father.

Although I don’t like many books written who takes place in the time of courtesans and formal balls, I really liked this book. I loved the way Apollo wanted to take care of Lily and how Lily feared she was not good enough for him because she was just an actress. I could easily picture all the beautiful dresses and the beautiful buildings.
This book was also very thrilling, I feared that there would be no happy ending and that Apollo would never find true happiness. Elizabeth Hoyt really made you never want to stop reading.

This book definitely was worth reading and it never got boring. I would definitely recommend this book to all romantic book lovers. This book is not only romantic and beautiful but it also has a sexy twist to it. Definitely one to check out! ;)

I'm searching for something decent to read late one night and there i see, NEW fiction by Elizabeth Hoyt. Automatic buy, which makes me a kid in a candy store. This certainly did not disappoint and was my favorite in the Maiden Lane series. The heroine wasn't...stupid! Oh, you know that type that's silly and thinks smarts things followed by really stupid actions which leaves you shaking your head, making faces and just "oh gawding" all over?? None of that. She's painted worldly, smart, sexy, confident, protective, loyal...and she has a man to match. I can't even say anything bad about Apollo. Perfect mix of meek, sexy, slightly dominant male. His description kept implying that he wasn't a handsome man and Ms Hoyt did well in pushing his sensuality that by the end, how could you not drop everything for him?? The mystery was so well done, there were a few twist that made this a solid read without diverting too much from the relationship between the two main leads. The side characters were very enjoyable, ecentric at times that imparts a good deal of humor to balance the story. I just can't say enough about this series, and though it started out dark, it's gotten lighter and more fun with each new release without loosing substance.

Great romance stories are few and far between. This story with its finely-drawn characters,growing suspense and unusual setting was captivating. Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne is the beast. Lily Stump is the beauty. Yet, Hoyt, weaves a story were Apollo has the willing heart and the giving soul. Lily is intelligent, feisty yet fearful of the power of love across the lines of class and money. The secondary characters are not slighted. They add a great deal to the developing tale. I don't like reviews where the reviewer tells the plot and reveals too much. Suffice it to say, that you will enjoy Apollo and Lily's love story from the first page to the last. I haven't read any of the other Maiden Lane series, but that didn't affect my enjoyment of this book. I assure you I will be reading more of the series soon.

AudioBook Review:
Stars: 3 Narration 2 Story 3

Book 7 in Elizabeth Hoyt’s Maiden Lane series is Darling Beast, Apollo’s story. I’m quite used to popping into the middle of a series, and most author’s do make the effort to give some background information to characters that are recurring, and the author’s choice to use the narrator responsible for earlier books in the series left me hopeful.
I love historic romance: I want the characters to jump out and impress me, give me something that makes them memorable and interesting. And while Apollo had that in spades with his escape from Bedlam and hiding as a simple gardener while he restores the site to its former glory, It is a lovely hidey hole, and he is content to remain unnoticed (and uncaptured), ignoring the complication of the actress and her family who have taken residence.
Lily is an actress on the downswing of her career, and is hoping to recapture some of the glory, this time as playwright. Her son added a nice touch of openness to her, and surprisingly she wasn’t hardened or jaded by the struggles she has endured.
And then – the transformations and meat of the story: troubled hero grows and changes as he struggles to prove his innocence. Fallen woman convinces him to come back to love and life, and discovers her own redemption. Only after some incredibly hot and smutty moments.
And there are secondary characters and the murderer’s reveal – all elements that should have added to the story’s tension but missed the mark for me: there were no real surprises, and while the interactions were frequent, the dialogue moved from ‘almost natural’ to feeling forced. With the lack of pointed inflection that would enhance the emotional impact of varying moments, Ashford McNab’s performance was uninspired, and while not flat, was not what I was hoping for. She does mage to keep characters in their own voice, although some of the voices are far more pleasing and mellifluous than others, each did have a solid tie to a character. I expected her performance to feel more familiar with the characters and story, but to me, it was lacking in commitment – a merely middle of the road performance.
This is book seven in the series, and perhaps the earlier installments would have given me a better sense of the characters and Hoyt’s storytelling: but while I found this enjoyable, it didn’t reach the level of a ‘can’t put it down’ or instill a need to rush out for the other titles in the series.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Hachette Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

I always enjoy Elizabeth Hoyt's work and this book is no exception. Apollo is the gentle giant greatly wronged by perception and a crime that he took the fall for many years ago. In his quiet life working to repair a pleasure garden, he meets Lily, a renowned actress, and her charming young son, Indio.

Lily and Apollo warm up to each other slowly as both of them are somewhat distrustful of others. But the attraction they feel for each other simmers despite their wariness. I feel like they spent time getting to know one another, not necessarily their pasts, but who they are at their cores, without clouding things too much with passion right from the start. This was a nice touch.

I have to admit that I missed some of the regulars from the Maiden Lane series and all of the high drama and intrigue of the slums of London, but this book had its own mystery and interesting, quirky characters. I look forward to the next book in the series.

Another wonderful book in the Maiden Lane Series! Every book in this series gets better than the last. Her stories are beautiful romance with action, adventure, mystery and sensual love that sizzles!! I love the way that she opens every chapter with her unique fairy tales which are inspirational stories in themselves. It is like getting two books in one. Her dialogue is witty, clever, and her characters are rare individuals who live uncommon lives that are enthralling and so captivating that you never want it to end. Elizabeth is one of my always read authors and I await her next book with breathless anticipation. If you have not read the Maiden Lane Series you are missing out on one of the greatest Historical Romance Series of all time!!! Do Not Miss This Book!!!!

5+++ Historical Romance at its best stars!!!
I absolutely loved this beautifully romantic story. I don't usually collect book boyfriends but Apollo Greaves was amazing--sweet and caring from start to finish. Lily was great too; I loved that she was a groundbreaking and respected actress and how much Apollo admired her. The secondary characters were excellent (especially Indio and Daff!!) and it was nice to take a break from the Ghost and the usual cast.

HIGHLY recommend!

Whenever I'm in need of a smart, terrific historical read, Elizabeth Hoyt is my go-to author! The Maiden Lane series continues with this installment featuring Apollo Greaves, a Viscount who has escaped from Bedlam after being sent up on false murder charges. He is currently in hiding at the burned out ruins of a theatre and gardens that Asa Makepeace is trying to put back together.
A huge, hulking man, Apollo suffers from a horrible injury that he received during a beating in Bedlam that has left him unable to speak for the better part of a year. Although his sister desperately wants him to flee England and regain a life he is set on finding the real murderer and taking revenge for the nightmarish years he spent locked away in hell.
Lily Stump is one of London's most celebrated actresses. After accepting an offer from Makepeace to star at his theatre she moves herself, her precocious son and a trusted nanny only to find the theatre burned and having been blacklisted by a vengeful director she has no place else to go. Making a small home for her threesome in the remains of the burned theatre she is put into the path of Apollo.
You would think that with a main character absolutely unable to speak for a good half of the book that it would suffer from one sided dialogue and become boring but such is not the case with this wonderful story.
Instead we are treated to Apollo's inner thoughts and frustrations at being perceived as a dumb mute as well as his intense attraction to Lily and his unwilling but inescapable affection for her son Indio and ridiculous dog, Daffodil.
Of course there is a bad guy to find, a life to be regained and Lily has her own terrifying circumstances to deal with as well. Throughout all this we are witness to witty repartee and a blossoming love that is sweet and just spicy enough to keep things interesting.
Wonderful book, wonderful author.

Delightful take on BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. A young actress finds refuge for her son, herself and her maid in a theater that was destroyed by a fire. A Duke recently escaped from Bedlam where he was convicted as a murderer is restoring the gardens of the theater. Not able to talk from a beating while in Bedlam, he becomes known as the Beast. Only a little boy is able to bring two lonely hearts together. LOVED IT!

Apollo is on the run from Bedlam and being framed to the murder of his three friends. He's find refuge in the deserted garden of a burned down theater, a garden in need of his powers as a gardener.
At the same time Lily finds herself in need of a safe place when her money dries up, and gets a place in a small part of the theater that didn't burn. There she and her son Indio bides their time until they can get another pay.
What starts out as a simple friendship between a mute brute and an innocent child, turns into so much more when Lily bonds with him. And soon she's deeply involved in his defence and investigation into clearing all the allegations.
Regency romance, suspense, mystery and smutty fluff in a great combo, and I've found a new (to me) favorite author!

If you like lichen green eyes, or how monstrous the hero is described over and over and over again, this is the book for you, meaning its repetitive to the extreme. So many scenes are described down to the brain function of the dog, and it makes for a long read. I don't recommend it.

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

Darling Beast by Elizabeth Hoyt
Book Seven of the Maiden Lane series
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Publication Date: October 14, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

A MAN CONDEMNED . . .

Falsely accused of murder and mute from a near-fatal beating, Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne has escaped from Bedlam. With the Crown's soldiers at his heels, he finds refuge in the ruins of a pleasure garden, toiling as a simple gardener. But when a vivacious young woman moves in, he's quickly driven to distraction . . .

A DESPERATE WOMAN . . .

London's premier actress, Lily Stump, is down on her luck when she's forced to move into a scorched theatre with her maid and small son. But she and her tiny family aren't the only inhabitants—a silent, hulking beast of a man also calls the charred ruins home. Yet when she catches him reading her plays, Lily realizes there's more to this man than meets the eye.

OUT OF ASH, DESIRE FLARES

Though scorching passion draws them together, Apollo knows that Lily is keeping secrets. When his past catches up with him, he's forced to make a choice: his love for Lily . . . or the explosive truth that will set him free.

What I Liked:

Ohhh, guys, it's been over a year since I've read an Elizabeth Hoyt book! Her Maiden Lane series is my favorite historical romance series EVER, so you can imagine how antsy I was to get my hands on this one. THANK YOU, GRAND CENTRAL!!

Apollo Greaves has just escaped Bedlam, with the help of his sister and his new brother-in-law, the Duke of Wakefield. Apollo is currently redesigning the garden in the ruined Harte's Folly when Lily Stump moves into the theater with her seven-year-old son and nursemaid, Maude. Lily is a well-known actress of London, but she hasn't had much success recently. When the two meet, it's two worlds colliding, worlds of secrets, worlds of danger, worlds of sparks...

We all know my favorite book of the series was Duke of Midnight, and that still sticks, but this one is probably tied with the remaining five books for my number two favorite. I could not wait to dive into Apollo's story, and to a relatively new character's story! Lily was an interesting character, and I was intrigued by the story of her having a seven-year-old son.

Apollo is on the run from Bedlam, and Lily needs a place to stay. Set in the lush background of a horribly burned theater and garden, most of the interactions between Lily and Apollo occur there, in the garden. Lots of time for the author to show off Apollo's physical prowess. Lots of time for Indio (Lily's son) to become beholden to Apollo, a potential father-figure that he never had.

I really liked Lily - she isn't a noblewoman, so she has no title or rank. She's a successful but struggling actress that is desperately trying to hide her son from society's keen eye. Lily has a spine of steel, but she is also very soft and gentle. Caring for Apollo comes naturally to her - after she gets past her initial suspicion and wariness.

Apollo... ah, poor guy. He cannot speak for a good portion of the book, because of injuries sustained at Bedlam. You really have to feel for the guy - it was heartbreaking to read about his interactions with everyone else, via pen/paper or gestures. However, I think the inability to speak made him a very astute and observant person - if he wasn't already. I really like Apollo!

The romance is very sweet. Lily and Apollo fall in love so seamlessly, despite Lily not knowing much about Apollo - she doesn't find out that he is a viscount, or that he is on the run for (alleged) murder, until close to the end of the book. Imagine her surprise. Nevertheless, I found the romance sweet, not very steamy, but that was okay.

I like how story progressed in this book. We get to see many characters from previous book, like Maximus, Artemis, Hero, Phoebe, James... but we also meet new characters, like the Duke of Montgomery, who is quite the character. I had hoped that book nine would be about him, but I see that book nine features Asa. That's cool. In any case, I also like how things wrap up - finding the real murderer of Apollo's friends is important, so that Apollo can have his name cleared, and so that he can take his place as Viscount Kilbourne. The ending is definitely a wonderful ending, in my opinion!

What I Did Not Like:

I can't think of anything specifically... I think I had hoped for more between Lily and Apollo? There are plenty of sentimental scenes, which deal with feelings and emotions and totally sweet gestures, But in terms of the physical, it's kind of all plopped in at the end, several scenes squeezed in just as the book finishes. Which is okay... but dispersing the steaminess would have been more effective? In my opinion. But this is much of a complaint, more like an observation.

Would I Recommend It:

YEESSS. So much. Read the entire Maiden Lane series, read book six, read this book, read them all. It's a companion series, so you don't quite have to read the previous six to read book seven, and so on. Elizabeth Hoyt is hands-down my favorite adult historical romance author - I just love her work!

Rating:

4 stars. A lovely addition to this fabulous series! Book eight now... I cannot wait to read James and Phoebe's story! And ooo, book nine, Asa. Maybe Hoyt can get a contract for a book ten, featuring Montgomery!

Actress and single mother Lily Stump had only one theatre where she could perform. When that theatre burned down, it left her in dire straits. Until it’s rebuilt, she has no income, and, so is living with her son and servant in a few of the rooms left standing and barely habitable. Her son, Indio, enjoys playing on the grounds, and has become fascinated with the man in charge of designing the gardens. This large, mute, man is none other than Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne, who is there to hide out, as he’s a wanted man. Years ago, Apollo was falsely accused of murder, and then committed to Bedlam by a relative. He was all but starved there, and horribly abused. As he tried to help a fellow inmate from being attacked, he was beaten and had his throat crushed, and has been unable to speak since. He later was aided in escaping from Bedlam, and he came here to his friend and business partner to seek refuge.

The little boy, Indio, tells his mother that he has seen a monster in the gardens. He’s referring to Apollo, with his great height, huge shoulders and craggy features. Lily goes to investigate and encounters Apollo, who can’t speak in order to answer her questions. She believes him to be dimwitted, but soon comes to believe him harmless, and Indio invites him for dinner. Eventually, they develop a sort of friendship. As Lily and Apollo become more familiar with each other, they discover that the other has secrets and hidden depths. This unlikely couple has an explosive chemistry and they become lovers. I am a sucker for someone who has been falsely accused and imprisoned. Despite all he has endured, Apollo has retained his humanity. He is loving and gentle with Lily and Indio. He has an artistic soul, and is pouring it into the creation of the new theatre’s gardens. He wants to regain his life, but not for the sake of becoming an idle aristocrat. He has humor and honor, and I half fell in love with him myself. Lily is smart, loyal, and strong, but not hard. Their love story was beautifully developed and romantic, while the mystery of who framed Apollo had me reading as fast as I could to see the resolution. Elizabeth Hoyt also includes a little snippet at the beginning of each chapter. It’s usually part of a fairy tale, which parallels her story. These snippets are well thought out, and add to the enjoyment of the book. I found myself looking forward to the resolution of the secondary story almost as much as the first.

I highly recommend this stellar addition to the amazing Maiden Lane series. If you like books with characters who are a cut above the ordinary, breathtaking romance, and page turning excitement, this beast may be just what you’re looking for.

originally posted at long and short reviews

Darling Beast is another great book in this fabulous series with danger, action and romance. I love the way in each book in this series we read about the hero or heroine of the next book. I really enjoy Darling Beast and can't wait to read the next one. Thank you Elizabeth Hoyt!

SPOILERs!What am i not getting that the positive reviewers get? This story is dominated by a dog a boy and a grumpy old maid,a lot off stalling and babble very repetitive,the food drops on the floor the dog eats it repeated to death,the boy washes in the evening then again in the morning with hero then again hero at picnic wash wash wash,every mundane action is over explained to death,making tea,picking up a stick etc and repeated to death,especially about the boy and the maid and more importantly the repetitive annoying antics of the dog very slow start the over description of the heroes size mood killer made him sound like an ogre.We get it his large does the heroine really need to marvel at the size of his feet ? Do we really need to read the sentence of the little boy's prick after going for a pee?I'm well passed chapter 7 now and really tired!What with this idiot Trevillion who marches in and just shoots not a very smart one is he?Every time Trevillion was mentioned his leg was mentioned and the pain it seemed it had a life of its own or should of had its own story,very tiring,we get it he is in pain lame uncomfortable,do we have to have this repeated every time?It almost makes it ridiculous that he was guarding Phoebe when he was so incapacitated!? Trevillian wasn't very smart in the other books either and why does Phoebe get stuck with him?Does disability attract disability.Also Wakefield seems already bored with his wife.Her maid calling her hinney reminded me of a rear end!Heroine at some point runs from possible murder scene terrified for her sons safety and when hero turns up all bloodied all she can do is oogle his naked chest and be turned on,come again?OMG WILL IT EVER STOP WITH THE DOG ALREADY?The boy is danger of getting hurt all the time,accidents all the time what a repetitive mess. I'm still waiting for some sign of the romance.The hero's white shirts also mentioned to death it seem someone pressed the replay button. The maid kept popping in all the sensual scenes ruining them another mood killer i wanted to scream "Butt out old lady!!!!"She was like an irritating constant third wheel!By chapter 9 they've only shared a quick kiss interrupted by grumpy maid and all mundane action by little boy and dog are continuously,explained dog licks boy plays with mud puddle ,mud mentioned to death.First love scene completely ridiculous beginning he babbles in forever he is the same person blah blah then he strips totally naked and raises his hands and turns around in a circle and tells her "It's me, take me as I am " I laughed so hard my sides hurt.Then the cheesiest response I have ever read"you come to me you that you are " are there earthlings that speak this way?lol! Again the constant mention of his size grinding mood killer 'she smoothed her hand over his GREAT head?Hydrocephalus? I mean I get the author was going for the Minotauro parallel but there was over kill as regards Greek mythology!He was at some points Apollo then looked like a bull really grinding,you don't need constant every turn mention of size because then he becomes a monstrous circus freak, he was much better portrayed in previous books,what a pity! He describes himself as a great ugly lump and the author does her very best to portray him so at every turn,I don't like my heroes Quasimodoes.His heart went ba thump ba thump?lol!The hero comes across almost childlike a simpleton asking everyone for advice on who to trust what to think,no alpha male here in fact not even Beta more like a Z giant soft push over! Is this the same woman who wrote the other books sex language "stuff me full " tear drops down there?lol and lol some more!Disjointed plot,people who came together for no reason had no reason to get involved,mismatched,poor actions like go search study for clues,invite everyone to the same house party even people you do not know,all classes mixing,the aristocracy clapping at her as if she is Shakespeare, really weak and contrived. Everyone shows up to save the day apart from the hero who legs it to save himself leaving the heroine exposed to danger and to her own devices,swoon worthy!Also voluntarily all the villains come out of the woodwork and voluntarily admit their crimes, come again.In summary,nothing makes sense, is to conveniently played out,and to top it off no sensuality no intrigue no chase,you have to feel for Apollo though he is the weakest,gone through hell,depend on everyone women,men ,most vulnerable hero I have ever ever read, poor thing! Lichen green eyes used to death,actually mostly everything was repeated to death the boy the maid and the dog dominating 90 % of the story line! I am now truly afraid to read Trevillion's story as he will probably be leaning on his cane a billion times and plump plump plump Phoebe will probably be overly sympathetic ,telling him laughingly 'good that you killed someone???!!! ' I am done it is a shame we are out of Alpha males Wakefield the a,,... seems pretty appealing at this point!

Long awaited and much too quickly read. I was engrossed to the dismay of two restless dogs and someone needing help with their home work. Apollo was perfect. Lily, lucky Lily, was delightful. The simmering emotions and the steamy kisses and the mutual trust that grew between them all was very hard to put down. Indio and Daffodil added a charming counterpoint to the romance and I can't wait for the next one!