Sandy M’s review of Naughty by Nature (Carlisle Family, Book 3) by Barbara Pierce
Historical romance released by St. Martin’s 27 Nov 07
Barbara Pierce has become an all-time favorite of mine. Her books an auto-buy. The Carlisles are a fun and scandalous family with friends of the same attributes, as evidenced by the hero in this book. These books are full of famlial love as well as romantic love, and if you haven’t read about this raucous brood yet, you are missing a great time.
What I loved most about this book is the different side we see of Ram – the sensitive, emotional side – but the rogue is still present. We also find out what it is in his past that has brought him to this point in his life and made him the man he is. The scenes with his sister, especially when we learn why it is Margaret is the only sister left, are quite emotional. In addition, although it breaks his heart to force her to rejoin society after so many years of hiding, he has decided to stand firm and make sure she begins to live again.
Then he literally bumps into the most intriguing woman and, though she awakens a different kind of passion in him than he’s used to, he employs her to help his sister. Ms. Pierce’s wonderful writing shows us how difficult a situation he’s made for himself because he’s never crossed that line with an employee, and some things in life just have to have their own way no matter what you do.
Patience has had her own downfall in life and is hiding a horrible secret. She is now trying to eke out a living as an actress in a traveling company. Fortune begins to smile on her when she agrees to take Ram’s job. She realizes all Margaret needs is female camaraderie and guidance. Margaret’s changes are astoudning to Ram, that is when he is able to keep his mind and hands off the delectable Patience.
I enjoyed the relationship between Ram and Patience. They both try to stay away from one another, knowing a relationship would be frowned upon, but their attraction is just too strong. I also liked the mystery that came as a surprise later in the book, which is when we meet up with the Carlisles in full force. In times of crisis you know who your friends are, and Ram’s friends never hesitate when he asks for help.
The wit and humor between Ram and Patience is never ending, their love grows despite everything. Throw in the rowdiness of the Carlisles to continue the banter and fun and you have a book that is quite satisying in every way.
Grade: B+
From the back cover:
TWO LOVERS WILL RISK EVERYTHING…
Patience Rose Farnaly was easily lured away from her wealthy family by the false love of a dangerous man. Rather than face a grim future on the streets, Patience struggled to find honest work as an actress. But when the irresistibly charming Earl of Ramscar offers her legitimate employ in London as a lady’s companion to his sister, Patience snaps up the chance…although her attraction to Ramscar leaves her on shaky ground.
FOR A MOMENT OF PURE CARNAL BLISS…
Ever since a devastating fire left his sister brutally scarred, Ramscar vowed to protect the little family he has left. Now that Patience has been hired to be his sister’s companion, his conscience is clear—even if his imagination won’t let him rest. Haunted by fantasies of the beautiful, beguiling Patience, it’s only a matter of time before they enter into an illicit affair—one that might threaten Ramscar’s status among les sauvages nobles if Patience’s dark past comes to light…and could destroy them both.
Read an excerpt.
Other books in this series:
