Although I normally read contemporary novels, the second book in this series is just as delightful as the first (of course I read and love everything that Ms. Force writes). When Aubrey Nelson arrives at the family home to make sure it is ready for his family and the Duke and Duchess of Westbrook (from the first book) he is astonished to find the house in complete chaos. The previous staff, due to their dislike of his mother, left the house open for the winter conditions and animals to enjoy. Maeve Brown, the newly hired Irish housekeeper, is a shock to him as he is immediately attracted to her, her beauty and her hard-working manner. She is determined, with little help, to get the house ready. Aubrey pitches in to help while knowing that his family (mother) will be furious if he should pursue his feelings for Maeve...but he can’t help himself. When a dark secret from Maeve’s past puts her in danger, he suggests marriage to protect her as he realizes that he is falling in love with her. Great, strong characters and story with updates on the characters from the first book. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)

This is the second book in the Gilded series by Marie Force is filled with drama, wealth, romance and love. Historical fiction with vivid descriptions, well developed characters and a story line that keeps your interest right from the start.

“Deceived by Desire” is the second book in the Gilded series, which follows Aubrey Nelson, the son of a wealthy industrialist, who arrives at his parent’s mansion in Newport, only to be greeted by Maeve Brown, the housekeeper. Maeve is trying to clean up the disastrous conditions left by the previous staff who left the home open to the elements, in retribution for the horrible treatment by Aubrey’s mother. Aubrey is almost transfixed by the beauty of Maeve, and soon finds himself so captivated, that he wants to spend all his time with her. He soon finds out her past, and asks Maeve to marry him, in order to ensure her safety. However, life for both Maeve and Aubrey is not going to a ‘honeymoon’ when his mother and family arrive at Newport.
Whilst this is the second book, it is easily a standalone novel as Marie Force manages to seamlessly integrate characters from the first book, into this. The romance between Aubrey and Maeve is beautifully depicted with the intensity of their feelings, in such a brief period of time, delivered with such subtlety, that it is quite believable. This is an enjoyable read and I look forward to further books by this author.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Wealthy Aubry falls for the young housekeeper Maeve. The storyline is a bit of a stretch, but overall worked. I did think that the amount of times they professed their undying love for one another too was excessive. I received this ARC from NetGalley and Kensington books for my honest review.

Aubrey is the son of an aristocratic family. His father has taken ill, his brothers are running the family business, so it is up to him to go to their Newport home and see it is ready for the summer. His mother is a rather selfish, difficult woman, and it is no surprise that the staff has quit leaving the place in shambles.
Maeve, an irishwoman who has escaped to America after a dreadful marriage ends in an accident, is their housekeeper. Aubrey is instantly taken with her, and once he finds out she is in danger, offers to marry her.
Will society, Aubrey's mother, and his friends and family accept his choice of wife, or will they be shunned from society and family forever?
Great message about not judging people based on their background and job titles, but rather the qualities they possess.
Nice, light read.

This is the second book in this series that is set in the 1900's. A light romance with a little suspense. This book is not at all like her Fatal Series which I love love love

Thanks to Netgalley for letting me read this book in return for an honest review

A disappointing tale set in early 1900s America. It was a jumbled mess of bad plot lines and way too many poorly written sex scenes. More like a D rated soap opera in fact.

I was provided with an ARC of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I did not knew Mrs Marie Force was publishing Historical romance, she was a contemporary romance author to me. Why I have not yet read one of her work.
I do not know if it is me or the time period sets for this book, but I find it so much more modern than the historical romances have read so far.
The writing style is smooth and the plot flows without any bump.
It was Cinderella with a bit of suspense.
Once I was over this change of writing style, I surely enjoyed Maeve and Aubrey’s story.
It was lust then love at first sight on Aubrey’s part, once he settled his eyes on Maeve, his future was sealed, he was lost and would do anything to protect her, even going against his own family. His only challenge is to make her fall in love with him and not doubting the sentiments she returns. He is a dotting husband and will go to any length to be sure she is accepted and happy.
Maeve after the predicament she found herself in, is weary of men, especially the charming sort, so far they proved to not be trustworthy, even worse. Why she is facing dire circumstances and must do with life still has to offer to her.
And Aubrey is everything she knows she must avoid, kind, attractive, from a well-regarded family and her employer. But whatever she tries to deter him seems to not work. He is determined and when one secret is revealed, he jumps on the occasion to get what he desires most, honor bond to protect her.
I have not read the previous book, but I never felt lost as each of the side characters had its history explained. It was lovely to see how a deep friendship can become more important and stronger than a blood bond. Maeve and Aubrey outside their first days together have strong supporters who won’t be afraid by the task asked to them.
A sensual tale of finding love and friendship despite rank and wealth.
4.5 stars

I was granted an advance copy by Netgalley and the publisher Kensington Books, I purchased my own copy too. It is my true and unbiased opinion.