"The Perils of Pleasure" by Julie Anne Long is a historical romance novel in the Pennyroyal Green series, following the story of Colin Eversea and Madeline, who are brought together under unusual circumstances. Colin, a charming yet troubled man, is rescued from the gallows by Madeleine, a mysterious mercenary with a complex past. As they navigate dangerous situations and try to unravel a mystery, they find themselves falling in love despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The plot is filled with clever twists and turns, combining elements of romance and mystery in a light-hearted yet engaging writing style that keeps readers invested in the characters' journey.

Characters:

The characters are distinct, with Colin being a charming rake and Madeleine a smart, independent woman, both of whom undergo personal growth throughout the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by engaging prose that combines humor with vivid descriptions, creating an immersive experience.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a mercenary and a wrongfully accused man who work together to uncover a conspiracy while facing threats to their lives.

Setting:

The story is set in Regency-era England, primarily in Pennyroyal Green, which serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally steady, though it contains slower moments for character development and culminates in an action-packed climax.

Of all the myriad ways Colin Eversea could have met his demise—drowning in the Ouse at the age of six, for instance, or plummeting from the trellis leading up to Lady Malmsey’s bedroom window some twe...

Notes:

Colin has been falsely convicted of murder and is about to be hanged.

Madeleine is hired to rescue Colin from the gallows.

Their adventure begins when an assassination attempt occurs.

Colin wants to return to stop his beloved from marrying his brother.

The story features a strong and intelligent heroine in Madeleine, who is also a widow.

Colin is charming but uses humor to hide his insecurities.

Madeleine has a tragic past that impacts her interactions with Colin.

There is significant banter as the two characters learn to trust each other.

The plot is filled with mystery and twists involving other characters and motives.

Colin discovers shocking revelations about his family during their quest.

The story has elements of a road trip as they go on the run together.

Colin is portrayed as a rake seeking redemption while also being protective of Madeleine.

The series features a long-standing feud between two families, the Everseas and the Redmonds.

Julie Anne Long’s writing includes humor and engaging dialogue, contributing to the character chemistry.

The romance evolves as both characters face their pasts and their growing feelings for each other.

Has Romance?

The romance between the two main characters, Colin and Madeleine, is a significant part of the narrative, characterized by witty banter and evolving attraction.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

A rescued rogue . . .

Scandal has rocked the city of London. Colin Eversea, a handsome, reckless unapologetic rogue is sentenced to hang for murder and, inconveniently for him, the only witness to the crime disappears. Then again, throughout history, the Everseas have always managed to cheat fate in style: Colin is snatched from the gallows by a beautiful, clever mercenary.

A captivating captor. . .

Cool-headed, daring Madeleine Greenway is immune to Colin's vaunted charm. Her mission is not to rescue Colin but to kidnap him, and to be paid handsomely for it. But when it becomes clear that whoever wants Colin alive wants Madeline dead, the two become uneasy allies in a deadly race for truth. Together, they'll face great danger-and a passion neither can resist.

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The Perils of Pleasure

Julie Anne Long

Book 1 in the series:Pennyroyal Green