Rebel Bride

wonderful installment in the series combining an intriguing story with plenty of steam.

The second title I have read in this erotic historical series, Rebel Bride brings the feel of the Tudor court to life while bringing us characters complete with flaws and foibles that make readers sit up and take notice.

Susannah and Hugh were introduced in Wolf Bride, but here we get to see the tumultuous journey to their story, and see that Susannah and Mule are interchangeable words! While it would be simple to sum this story up in a few words (Passion, Family, Intrigue, Forbidden Love) it really does encompass all of those and so much more in deliciously decadent prose, as Susannah single-mindedly pursues her own wishes, consequences be damned.

Wanting to have some “fun” and intrigue, she hies off to London for her experience. Hugh is a favored courtier of Henry VIII, but his friend Lord Wolf has sent him off to quietly find and return his errant sister-in-law. Hugh is intrigued by Susannah, and despite his being shocked by her forward behavior and headstrong ignoring of all consequence, he’s found himself attracted. But she is promised to another, and he’s too much of a gentleman to cross that line. But is she?

Combining more of the flavor of the time with Susannah’s escape to London, the 16th century comes forward nicely in the background and setting of this story. The Tudor court provides endless moments of angst and intrigue, and in that way Susannah with her speak first think later, if ever, she’s singularly ill-equipped to not be eaten alive. Hugh provides that steadying influence she so badly needs, and his guidance is rarely (but occasionally) heavy handed. These two have chemistry that is solidly portrayed and completely steamy, with several moments where Susannah’s forward and often heedless behavior plays perfectly.

Moss has a way of winding a story together with real and imagined moments that puts you into the place so perfectly that the only thing missing is the odors and sounds of the streets, backrooms and palaces. A wonderful installment in the series combining an intriguing story with plenty of steam.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.