In The Lion’s Den is a beautifully written story that features a cast of intriguing characters, mystery, and romance all amongst the glittering backdrop of Victorian London.

The story follows James Falconer who started off as a lowly shop now but has risen the ranks to right hand man to shipping magnate Henry Malvern. You don’t get to this position without making some rather interesting choices, which we definitely see.

James is tasked with bringing Henry’s daughter Alexis back to the family business, which is much more challenging than it seems. And what if the blossoming feelings between James and Alexis?

If you’re looking for an immersive and atmospheric read that will make you feel like you’ve been transported back to Victorian London then pick this one up.

Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the tour invite. Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.

I was looking forward to reading my first of Barbara Taylor Bradford’s books, and was anticipating a lush family saga spanning time and space. The book was a little bit disappointing, and strangely two-dimensional. She introduces a cast of characters whom the reader can anticipate hearing more from over the course of future novels, but this apparently first in series was oddly flat. The descriptions of interior decorations were more interesting than the (occasional) sex scenes. The hero, James Falconer, falls in love repeatedly, and although he is young, he seems too fickle to be passionately in love with his bosses daughter whom he eventually marries.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Fans of big historical family sagas will enjoy this second installment (readable as a standalone) in the story of James Falconer and Alexis Malvern. He's risen from poverty (not the grinding poverty so endemic in the period but still) to working at the side of Henry Malvern. Malvern's daughter Alexis has absented herself from the business and the city after the death of her fiance but her father is determined that she be trained to run things, especially as he's aging and dealing with health issues. Readers of the genre know that this will have an enemies to lovers thing between James and Alexis but there is more than their general antipathy in their path- he's got a secret. Once you buy into the idea that a Victorian era magnate would leave his business to his daughter, you will root for them all a bit more. I wasn't a huge fan of the first book, which I thought had too many characters. That's still the case here but this covers only 1889-1892 so I suspect some of them will pop up again later, Thanks to the publisher for the ARC. BTB is at root a storyteller and it's easy to fall under her spell.

I first discovered Barbara Taylor Bradford by being introduced via the movie debut of her books. After viewing all the movies, being an avid reader I had to purchase the books! The books were just as wonderful in descriptive detail of the countryside and the era that you could feel yourself stepping into the book pages! I went on then to read all of her books after that. I was not aware of the Falconers series until now.

I went ahead and read the first one just to acquaint myself with the series. My Review is based solely on this book alone and not on her past books or future.

I love the plot of the book and that James is wanting to be a self made man, but he is doing it by working hard and not taking advantage of others. He is a fair minded person and to the point.
Alexis the daughter and heir to one of the key business owners in the area, Malverns, is a little on the spoiled side and used to being indulged to a point, but has a sharp mind for the business if she would take her emotions out of the workplace.

I think where the author has done a fantastic job is centering the flow of characters, it’s the continuity of the storyline that seems to get choppy. It seemed to drag forever on about Alexis and her depression where there could have been more about Alexis and James and there relationship. It was like she arrived and next thing they are getting along? What a flip? What happened to they hated each other?

Then it was Peter and Natalie and he visits dead Aunt and boom, she is with William? Then we have a bomb and no mention or suspicion at all placed on William’s brother? Plus , I hope that James would tell his current fiancé he has a little girl!

I realize there is a possible third book, but I cannot imagine that this was all just skipped over? It was like missing chapters for me? I actually went back to make sure that I didn’t skip any!

I am still a faithful reader and hope some of these are addressed in book 3 which, I know a few can’t be set aside without revealing spoilers!

I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.

I thoroughly enjoyed this second installment of the House of Falconer series, and will now have to wait to see what is in store for James and his family as the saga continues. These books have a little of everything: romance, family drama, danger, mystery.

Her 1979 debut novel, A Woman of Substance, ranks as one of the top-ten bestselling books of all-time, with more than 30 million copies in print. All 31 of her novels to date have been major worldwide bestsellers.

IN THE LION’S DEN continues the story of James Lionel Falconer who has now risen the ranks from working in his father’s market stall and crowning himself as the merchant prince, to now working side by side with the glorious shipping magnate, Henry Malvern of London’s Malvern & Malvern Co. in the setting of Victorian England, the ever handsome and ambitious James’ path to success was never easy - instead full of drama and intrigue.

In Bradford’s signature storytelling style, she writes this historical fiction drama full of complex characters, a story rich in historical detail, and an entertaining storyline and plot with a pacing so enjoyable that makes it hard to put down.

Historical fiction readers will endear to the Falconers family as we read about the intricate storyline full of ambition, romance and unexpected twists that makes this novel such an immersive and compelling read I enjoyed.

Barbara Taylor Bradford has done it again! She has created another wonderful story that will instantly pull you in, take you on a whirlwind ride and set you down unexpectedly and loving every minute of it. IN THE LION’S DEN was perfectly chiseled and took me to a time when I would find my mom reading through all her BTB books.

The plot line and the characters are beautifully penned. The Victorian era is vividly portrayed through this novel. There were so many times that I felt myself within the story, walking along side James and Alexis. I loved that feeling! The ups and downs of wondering what would happen with them, to them and around them, truly kept me hooked!

Once again, I highly recommend this beautifully chiseled novel. Bradford is a timeless story teller who never fails to deliver a story that will play out like watching a movie on the big screen. Her characters are always life like, her story line always full of rich details that make the reader feel as though they are truly the center of the story. I can’t wait to read the next book! Well done, Bradford. Well done!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

I fell right back into step with In the Lion's Den! I missed these rich and vivid characters and although it can be read as a standalone - I recommend starting with the first book because you will love James and Alexis’ story!

In the second story in The House of Falconer series this sweeping Victorian family saga continues to follow James and his dream to start his own empire, but as with any great historical and epic tale, danger and secrets loom in the shadows.

The story definitely has some suspenseful scenes as well as others that will have you laughing out loud. The Falconer family is such a supportive and loving cast and I really enjoyed getting to know them more and some new fresh faces as well! It’s very easy to root for them, James’ success, and watching Alexis’ rise up after tragedy.

I definitely think fans of this series will be thrilled with the story arc and how things end up. It picks right back up where the first book left off and it’s full of love, ambition, and quite a bit of mystery!

In the Lion's Den
A House of Falconer Novel

This the incredible second installment in Bradford’s House of Falconer series about a retail dynasty.

Set in Victorian times in England 1889-1892

James Lionel Falconer has now risen the ranks and now is by side with the shipping magnate, Henry Malvern of London’s Malvern & Malvern Co. His climb from a mere shop worker to being the right hand man of Henry Malvern hasn’t come without it fair share of drama.

James Lionel Faulkner has more responsibility as he's doing everything he can to reach the top of the prestigious shipping company in England. Climbing from a mere shop worker to being the right hand man of Henry Malvern doesn't come without its set of challenges.

Henry is tasked with bringing Henry Malvern's daughter, Alexis, back into the business fold. She is reluctant after suffering the the loss of her fiancée.
Malvern’s health is deteriorating, and in a series of events Percy Malvern is caught stealing from the wine business in LeHavre. Henry job is assistant to a contractor and is helping build an arcade that will hold businesses. There ares some dire events, and revelations that will keep on your toes.

In all of this Henry still has time to dream of one day opening his own shop.
There is a lot of twist and you find a vast amount of characters, that play out perfectly with this stunning plot.

Rich with vibrant atmospheric details makes for an epic historical fiction that is nothing short of outstanding. With descriptive prose you will find yourself amongst the well-do of intriguing London society.

The legendary Barbara Taylor Bradford does not disappoint in this second book of the House of Falconer. I excited to read the next book when it’s released.

Generational Saga in 1890's Britain
It is obvious from the start that this book is not the first in a series. It seems to start in the middle of a story that you should already know. Since I hadn't read any prior book, it took quite some time to 'get in' to the story. I would strongly suggest reading them in order. At any rate, this is a generational saga. It involves intertwined families of both working and blue blood classes. It is somewhat of a soap opera with romance, evil bad guys, and Eagle Scouts. When bad things happen, it is really bad. When good things happen, you hold your breath that it will last. While I don't really enjoy this type of novel, it is very well done. There are many characters and this reader was able to keep them straight without needing to refer to the guide. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.

No spoilers here because because this is a must read series..⁣
Book two picks up following James Falconer, who is learning all he can to be a successful business man from Henry Malvern. James is now the business manager for Henry. ⁣
Alexis Malvern is still working hard for her father and James is right by her side teaching her what she needs to know to run her fathers business. ⁣
Will Alexis and James romance finally flourish in this book? You are going to have to read it to find out.. ⁣
Beautifully written as was the first book, the Victorian era details are breathtaking; I love when I can read historical fiction and vividly see what the author has written. ⁣
This is a must read for all historical fiction lovers and fans of the great BTB...⁣

Wow! Barbara Taylor Bradford, the author of “In the Lion’s Den”, “The House of Falconer” Book Two, has written an intriguing, compelling, captivating, and entertaining novel. This is the second book in the series, and I really think one would benefit by reading the first but could read this as a stand-alone. The genres for this novel are historical fiction, women’s fiction, romance, suspense, and fiction. The timeline for this story is from 1889-1892. The author describes her characters as complex and complicated.
There are many characters from the first novel in this one, and there are also some new characters. James Lionel Falconer is now the right head man of Henry Malvern, who owns a shipping company. James now has a job that not only is responsible, but respectable. He certainly has worked his way up the ladder. There are certain secrets and threats that will change James' life forever.
Henry Malvern’s daughter Alexis is still depressed after a tragedy. Alexis shows no interest in running her father’s company. At times she seems to be mean spirited, and rude when she sees James. A close friend to Jane says something to get Jane to realize that it might be the time to move on.
I love the way that Barbara Taylor Bradford vividly tells her story through her characters, settings, and plot. I look forward to the next novel in the series. I highly recommend this entertaining and thought-provoking book.

There is a lot going on in this story. You have to pay close attention to follow all the many characters and their stories. Lionel and Alexis are dealing with different issues in their lives while pretending the other doesn’t exist. Lionel is working on getting his empire off the ground while discovering that there are secrets to be discovered. Alexis is still mourning the death of her fiancé until her friends stage an intervention. This leads her back into the world and into the arms of Lionel and a happily ever after.

Barbara Taylor Bradford fans have been anticipating the newest developments in the life of James Falconer, the brilliant young man that was the focus of Book One-Master of His Fate. Book Two in the House of Falconer series arrives here in the U.S on October 6, 2020. The wait for In The Lion’s Den has been similar to the anticipation for the next season of Downton Abbey a few years ago or now, season 4 of The Crown! Not to worry. All the events and characters from Book One are tied together quite nicely in Book Two. Readers will be relieved to see a quick review of the cast of characters; always appreciated when there are several family histories to track. BTB uses her typical finesse as she weaves the lives of the Lords and Ladies with the housekeepers and butlers, and all the offspring from past generations. Fans of the grand homes of the English countryside will take deep breaths and sigh at the descriptions; from the soaring ceilings in entryways to the sweeping vistas seen from the library windows. Just sink into the velvet cushioned sofas and imagine the delicious aromas drifting from the kitchens, as footman and waiters deliver covered platters of poached salmon and dressed crab topped with sprigs of parsley. With closed eyes, listen as the white wine is poured into the crystal goblets and chilled water into the silver beakers. Yes, please.

James Falconer is “charismatic, with a natural, persuasive charm and perfect manners.” He has brilliant business acumen to share with Henry Malvern, the ailing tycoon of London’s shipyards, docks, and warehouses. Mr. Malvern’s heir, Alexis, is not particularly interested in her father’s business and is dealing with her own bouts of depression; even being treated by the much talked about, Dr. Sigmund Freud. Throw in some really British bits: Uncle George from the Chronicle and his reports on the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria from Balmoral, quick meet ups at the Pig & Whistle with Detective Crawford, and dining on borscht and chicken Kiev with Irina, a descendant of a Russian ambassador. All this along with the reboot of the wine division and the building of the “arcade” in Hull, and James Falconer figures he has his future planned in detail; written out and locked in the desk drawer, ready to put into action.

James Falconer has his parents’ support, the trust of Henry Malvern, and a “posse” of colleagues to listen or advise him. What could possibly keep him awake at night? His strategy is reflection and analysis. There really is so much to learn from the 21 year-old James Falconer. Oh, and by the way, his hobby is READING!

Relish and enjoy Book Two-In the Lion’s Den. GR

Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. I have been a fan of Barbara Taylor Bradford for years. Thiis book is the second book in the house of falconer series. This book did not disappoint. I enjoyed getting to know the various character's.

I’m over the moon with how much I enjoyed this second installment of Bradford's latest historical fiction series A House of Falconer. In the Lion’s Den has everything you could want from the genre: a large cast of complex intertwined characters, luscious details of time and place, and that special escapism that comes with delving into the past. I really enjoyed book 1 (Master of His Fate) so to see the story continued, with both my old favorite characters and some new additions, was a real treat. I’d absolutely recommend this series to any historical fiction reader as I myself cannot wait for book 3 already!

Note: I received a free electronic version of this novel via NetGalley in exchange for the honest review above, as well as a paperback ARC from the publisher St. Martin's Press. I would like to thank them both as well as the author herself for the opportunity to read and enjoy it.

In the Lion’s Den
(House of Falconer #2)
By
Barbara Taylor Bradford
This is the second in the series. The first title in the House of Falconer series is Master of his fate.
Victorian England has a sharp divide in the classes between rich and poor. James Lionel Falconer although coming from lowly beginnings does not stop him as a young boy from working in his father’s stall and is determined to rise in the ranks to become “ a merchant prince “He has risen in the ranks in the second book.
In the Lion’s den James become the right-hand man of Henry Malvern, head of the most prestigious shipping company in London. He has not forgotten his goal he continues to dream about opening his own business in time.
However it is not all plain sailing James proposes building a gallery of shops, this suggestion came after a member of the family had embezzled the company and to recoup losses, but arson strikes at the gallery( no suspects are ever caught). The gallery is rebuilt.
Bradford also expounds on James's love life, he had a brief romance with Irina, a dress designer, but his romance with Alexis Malvern who is Malvern’s daughter develops after she is rude and resentful of James. Will they end up together the plot deepens and Bradford holds your attention to the end of the novel.
Spanning the years from 1889 to 1892, In the Lion's Den is a Victorian historical family saga.

I was so excited to see a new book from Barbara Taylor Bradford. Unfortunately, I was disappointed in the novel. Three quarters of the book centered around James' relationships, which were not terribly interesting. The last quarter wrapped up with a passionate love affair whose foundation was at best, weak. Unless, this is the first of a series of book, there were several unanswered questions. If this is a series, I doubt I will read the next book.

I felt this was not a book, but rather a saga. There were many characters to remember, and I was happy to see in the front of the book a summary of who each person was. I found the main character James, whom everyone in the book loves, to be portrayed as cold and clinical to me. I couldn’t feel engaged by him and therefore did not care what happened to him nor anyone else in the book. The book is quite long, and I found I kept waiting for something exciting to happen. I received an ARC from NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for my honest review.

As a Barbara Taylor Bradford fan, this book did not disappoint ! Set in Victorian times , the characters are well developed and the storyline is engaging.Looking forwrad to reading book #3. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.