I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Angel in Scarlet (Bound and Determined, #4) by Lavinia Kent Series: Bound and Determined #4
Published by Loveswept on June 28th 2016
Genres: Historical
Goodreads
“I want to trap a man.”
FINAL DECISION: Kent once again has a great balance between erotic sexual encounters and the building of an emotional connection between the hero and heroine. I enjoyed the trip and think this book a great addition to the series.
THE STORY: Angela Ripon wants revenge on the man who she thought intended to ask for her hand in marriage but instead rejected her. For this purpose, Angela goes to Madame Rouge (Ruby) a brothel owner to find out how to make this man desperate for her so that she can reject him. Ruby tells Angela that she must shed all her inhibitions. Matthew Harkness, Earl of Colton never intended to hurt Angela, but his tastes don’t run to sweet vapid innocents. Then Angela approaches him and he begins to wonder if she might indeed be the woman he needs.
OPINION: Romance books that slip towards the erotica category sometimes substitute hot sex for emotional connection between the characters. Kent’s Bound and Determined series has done a great job of using the hot sex to explore and heighten the emotional connection between the hero and heroine.
As Angela and Matthew discuss the limits and desires that each of them have, they learn to communicate with one another. Their relationship begins before the novel starts and ends because of lack of communication and assumptions. As Angela claims to want revenge on Matthew, the truth is that she cannot let go of the connection she felt with him.
Adventurous and a bit wicked, Angela felt her joy suppressed by Matthew’s perceived betrayal. While she tells herself that she wants revenge, her willingness to participate in Matthew’s proclivities demands trust. Although the two begin without much trust between them, their sexual exploration develops and then deepens the trust between them. As their sexual relationship becomes more intense, their emotional connection blossoms and flowers. I especially liked how Matthew curbs his own desires in order to synchronize his desires with Angela’s willingness. Ultimately, the sexual relationship between Matthew and Angela is about trust and caring and the unity of desire.
WORTH MENTIONING: There is a minor MMF scene.
CONNECTED BOOKS: ANGEL IN SCARLET is the fourth book in the Bound and Determined series. This book can be read as a standalone although other characters from the series make cameo appearances.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.