Stacey Reid delivers another solid read with “A Matter of Temptation”, the first book in her new series. In this historical, we see Miss Wilhelmina Crawford match wit and swords with Simon Loughton, Earl of Creswick.

Mina is a likeable heroine – smart, brave, and fiery. Her only flaw is having once trusted a less than scrupulous fellow with her heart. Ruined in the eyes of the ton, she spent a chunk of her 20s sequestered away in the countryside. Thanks to a duel and a business proposal proffered by Simon, Mina returns to society with a newly animated disposition.

Simon, a reserved politician, too begins to develop a new vivacity. His devotion to Mina, even upon learning of her past transgressions, is both admirable and endearing. Despite the danger her past relationship poses to his political career, he never wavers in wanting her by his side.

Though there is no real villain and no real danger – aside from a minor attempt on Simon’s life, which hardly factored into the overall plot – the story still captures the attention of the reader with the will they or won’t they tension.

As is typical of a Stacy Reid book, there are plenty of swoon worthy love scenes, and a nice, satisfying epilogue.

You can’t go wrong with this read!

I never expected to see feminism in this story, moreover in historical romance. Usually, the authors write a story based on the cultures and the life styles at that time, so I really appreciate Miss Reid to bring this topic in the story.

First half of the story felt bland for me. Nothing much happens. They're just doing their daily activities. But, the second half of it, I liked it! Some secrets start to reveal, their connection starts to blooming, everything gets interesting. I could not put it down!

BOOK: A Matter Of Temptation
GENRE: historical romance
TROPES & THEMES: mistaken identity, workplace romance, ruined by scandal, social commentary
HOTTIE METER: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
RELEASE DATE: June 28th, 2022

If you are a reader of the genre and haven't read Stacy Reid, what are you doing?

This was such a beautiful and heart-warming story with the magical connection between two lovely characters. Mina and Simon have a fantastic and hilarious meet-cute. It is something I adore about Stacy's books, the ability to enthrall me into the story with wonderful chemistry between the main couple. This book is bursting with steam, heart, and a joyful storyline.

If you are looking for a book with a fearless heroine and hero who will do anything for a heroine look no more, this book delivers it perfectly.

* Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy of the book in exchange for an honest review

Wilhelmina Crawford has a secret about her past, and she believes that no one will want to marry her since she was part of a scandalous elopement years ago. When Wilhelmina "Mina" Crawford's twin brother cheats at cards and is challenged to a duel, she dresses like him and assumes his identity during the duel. During the duel with Simon Loughton, Earl of Creswick, Simon soon realizes that he is fighting with a woman. He is impressed with her personality, and he offers her a position as his secretary. The attraction between them grows as they work together. However, Simon's grandmother has plans to marry him to an eligible lady, and Mina knows that her past means that she can never marry Simon.

I enjoyed the chemistry between Mina and Simon. However, I felt that there were some moments when their dialogue felt out of character. Fans of Chasing Cassandra by Lisa Kleypas will enjoy this book. (Simon reminded me of Tom Severin.) Also, Simon's efforts to introduce laws that would benefit women and working class people made me think of Bringing Down the Duke.

4.25
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Netgalley for a copy of this book to read and review! Wow this was my first Stacy Reid book and I need more from her immediately. Even though the book is historical her female main character was an absolute firecracker. Mina was independent, fierce, confident and completely bad-ass. Her and Simon made for a wonderful pairing and I loved watching their relationship develop. I also enjoyed Mina's relationship with her brother. This was so fun and playful and I loved how it felt different from other historical romances I've read. The spice was also so incredible. Like this book was hot and I loved every minute of it. I adored this book!

Stacy Reids' books always leave me with all the warm and fuzzy feelings! I loved both Mina and Sebastian from the moment we meet them. Mina has been secluded in the country for a few years after she made a disastrous decision that caused her reputation to be in tatters, and from the moment Sebastian meets her he is smitten, even though he doesn't want to be. They begin this delicious dance from the moment she begins working as his secretary. Side glances and secret smiles, they have the most wonderful chemistry, They slowly fall in lust, then love, and even though Mina knows she could never keep Sebastian permanently she decides to take all the time she can get with him.

There is a moment towards the end when a secret is revealed and you expect some drama in the relationship, but I love the way that Stacy Reid wrote the aftermath of the reveal. It was excellent and really showed how much these two were meant to be... Sebastian and Mina have jumped to one of my all-time HEAs and I cannot wait to see what she will write next!!!

p.s this book is a 2fer and we get a quick little story at the end about a duke held at gunpoint by a feisty lady to get reparations for something that was done to her. It was so good! I loved seeing these two people fall in love!

4/5. Releases June 28.

Mina Crawford is--due to a mistake she made six years ago--unmarriageable. Therefore, she can do nothing to help her destitute family, even though they can barely manage to scrape together enough to feed themselves, let alone their staff. To make matters worse, her twin brother comes home to reveal that he's set to duel the ruthless Earl of Creswick over to cheat at cards. Knowing that her brother is horrible with a rapier (while she's quite good with them), Mina takes his place, sure that she can not only defeat but dupe the Earl...

It doesn't take long for Simon, the Earl of Creswick, to realize that the mysterious opponent who handily bests him at swordfighting is not quite the man she seems to be. But on the bright side, she is quite pretty--and capable, which comes in handy at a time when Simon is desperate to pass a reform bill. So he proposes a bargain: if Mina works as his secretary, he won't tell anyone that she dueled him rather than her brother. Unfortunately, Mina is also the first woman who's ever appealed to the cold, cynical earl...

This was my first Stacy Reid. Shocking, I know. I've been aware of her for quite a while, and she comes quite recommended; I just haven't been able to make the time to read one of her books. Well, that's on me, because she writes a mean historical romance. I've been in a bit of a slump, and once I sat down to read this one, I blazed through it. Her writing style has a compulsively readable quality that comes off as both modern and old school for me, and it was this injection of fun that I desperately needed.

Simon and Mina have a truly romantic love story. This plot doesn't reinvent any wheels--there is a bigger obstacle that becomes explicit late in the story, but for much of it the main issue is "society says no". What's refreshing about Reid's take is that it doesn't keep the two of them from jumping into bed together. Mina is a virgin (and I will say--she doesn't have to be, and to me it was a bit unbelievable that she was, but not to the point that I took much issue) but she's not overly innocent. She's aware of the ways of the world, and she makes it very clear fairly early on in the story (by historical standards) that she wants Simon. That in itself was great--wow, a heroine who wants to have an affair and doesn't assume that her lack of marital prospects means that she needs to remain chaste.

This is juxtaposed to Simon, who was quite interesting for me on a hero level. He's not a virgin--I kind of thought he was for a minute, and that would've been welcome... but he's not. I kind of wonder if he's somewhere on the asexual spectrum, perhaps demi? But I'm not educated enough (or informed enough about Reid's intentions) to make a clear argument either way. To be clear--this is not a closed door romance by any means. There's sex, and it's graphic and good and it happens a decent amount. However, it's also made clear that while Simon has had sex (with multiple partners, though not many) prior to meeting Mina, he didn't get much out of it, and it was a bit perfunctory. He's never kissed anyone before (he operated by Pretty Woman rules, where you fuck but you don't kiss on the mouth) and he's pretty vocal about the fact that he's never actively wanted someone before meeting Mina. Maybe this was just a "she's special, everyone else is a fuck" thing. However, the way it was written felt like more than that. I would also argue that Simon seemed to be coded as autistic, but again, I can't be sure.

What I will say is that once he begins to melt a little with Mina, he retains his slightly awkward, closed off manner... But she understands him, and he understands her, it's really lovely to read. There is one point where they're planning to sleep together for the first time (it's not an impetuous move) and she finds him with books that will supposedly educate him on how to make it good for her, and I! Loved! That!

Now, I will say that while the big obstacle that keeps them apart is a good one, I think that it was resolved a bit too quickly. The ending is kind of rushed to my taste, and I think this one could've used a bit more of a third act breakup. (Some of you will love that it doesn't go that hard in that direction, and you're free to have that opinion, I just love a third act breakup). However, there's a great scene towards the end that kind of surprised me. I don't know, maybe I just didn't expect this one to get me in the feels as much as it did. The sign of a good book!

While I think this one could've gone a bit harder, it's really a super enjoyable, super fun, and honestly touching read. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to just dive into a historical romance for a while and get the warm fuzzies (while also reading about hot sex, because Simon does in fact put it DOWN). I can't wait to get into Stacy Reid's backlist. She's earned a fan!

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Stacy Reid is one of my favorite authors and this story does not disappoint. I loved that Mina was an accomplished, smart, and bold young lady who didn't wilt at the sight of a handsome man. Simon was brilliant, but emotionally stunted. It took Mina's banter and sweet nature to break through his hard exterior. Ms. Reid does a great job of drawing out their attraction as I'm not a fan of the "insta-love" trope.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable book and I can't wait to read the next one in the series.

I love a historical romance with an intelligent and unapologetic lead female, and that is exactly what I got in Mina! Simon is her counter part and he is dedicated to social reform. More interesting, Simon is rigid, and unable to process nuance (along with other characteristics); I thought he was a well written neuro-diverse character. Stacy Reid is always a reliable author for me and with A Matter of Temptation she continues to be.
I received and ARC from NetGalley; my opinions are freely given.

Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Rating: 5 Stars
Publishing: June 28, 2022
Series: A Matter of Temptation #1
Pages: 400

I love a good “go to” book when there is a long holiday for me and Stacy Reid, as always have wonderful stories that are great reads and somehow manage to bring a smile to my lips or laugh out loud at some of the interactions. “A Matter of Temptation” the first book in this new series was entertaining, delightful and the characters provided a good deal of banter and stubbornness in their own way.

Simon Loughton, the Earl of Creswick is a grumpy, political stiff who needs a secretary to help him with his administrative tasks so that he can pass a reform bill. One night while gaming, he is accused at cheating at cards. He is challenged to a duel and believes he needs to teach an admired Viscount Crawford’s predecessor a lesson for his careless action.

Miss Wilhelmina Eleanor Crawford “Mina” was ruined when she foolishly ran off years prior believing she was in love but ended up ruining herself in the eyes of society. She spends her day trying to keep her family and minimal servants together in the crumbling estate in hopes that her brother can manage their successful livelihood and one day she can find the happiness she’s always dreamed. Financially strapped for money, her twin brother cheats at cards and challenges Simon to ta duel. The duel is successful but with one hitch. Simon realizes that the person who bested him is not a male but none other than a fiery haired Miss Crawford and offers her a financial opportunity in return to with helping him in his political aspirations.

Mina and Simon are very likeable characters as they are clearly opposites that draw out their good sides through banter and subtle humor. They are two strong-willed and intelligent individuals where forced proximity gradually builds a more personal relationship than that of employer and employee. There is like-minds, chemistry, banter, and laughable moments. The heat and steam are evident in this story and the author did a great job of gradually building their intimacy to one of deep love between the H/h…especially with Simon doesn’t believe in the concept of love. The pacing is not rushed and the story pulls together so well chapter after chapter. A beautiful, well-written story of passion, dreams, and emotions on the part of the main characters. Simply enjoyable and absolutely loved Stacy Reid. Looking forward to reading Anthony’s story and quest to find marriage. Recommended read.

Stacy Reid is always a great pick for historical romance! A bit sexy with interesting characters and a side of history and social commentary? Yes please.

A Matter of Temptation follows an heroine who was "ruined" by a scandal in her past. The book opens with her dressing up as her twin brother in order to fight a duel on his behalf because she is the better swordswoman. She beats Simon, the Earl of Creswick, handily and he ends up offering her a job as his secretary after uncovering her identity. Things slowly heat up from there!

Simon is involved in politics and progressive in his beliefs about things like women's rights, working conditions for the poor and more. We get threads about those topics (including the issue of women obtaining a divorce) woven through the book in a way that is interesting and fits with the overall romance. While I didn't fall in love with these characters to the degree I have in other books by this author, I still had a great time and would definitely recommend the book! I received an advance copy of this book for review, all opinions are my own.

Historical romance with forced proximity, a grumpy earl, and a totally bold and intelligent ruined woman. This one had all the elements I love in a historical romance. We have a lady who disguises herself as her twin brother to fight a duel with an earl, and ends up earning his respect when he realizes she's a woman. He hires her on as his secretary, seeing her skill and intelligence. The forced proximity here is perfect, even though she's holding onto some secrets of her past. And of course, he's a do-gooder, fighting for the rights of the common man and women. Loved it!

My God, I never turned the pages of a book as fast as I have with this one.

From that first chapter and first time they actually meet and he discloses her for wearing a man’s clothes, I was so enraptured!

I loved how their relationship grows into something so much more. The mere idea of her working as his assistant was just unbelievable, but so good! I mean, I don’t think I’ve read as many historical books with a workplace romance as this one. The chemistry and their interaction, the way he acts around her and the way they both grow to understand that what binds them is way beyond their expectations.

Full of charisma and intriguing storyline, this historical romance is a must read one for any lovers of the genre or not. Just try it and you might be as enraptured as I was.

Very grateful to the publisher for my review copy

Simon, the Earl of Creswick, is a powerful politician, unmarried and uninvolved. He has a cold demeanor and is
unfeeling. He had no need for love. Right now, he was trying to get a reform bill through parliament. It was especially important to him.

Miss Wilhelmenia Eleanor Crawford was the twin sister of Anthony, Viscount Crawford. Both their parents were dead and the estate they received was in debt and the house was in desperate need of repair. She had been a large part of a scandal. She had eloped with her fencing teacher. and had ruined her reputation.

This is an almost overwhelming book. It not only is beautifully written but has funny moments and Mina refuses to be fired. It also can cause tears. It flows evenly, there are some twists and turns, and the love moves in them and around them. I hope you enjoy this exciting novel.

I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.

Another sexy and emotional book from Stacy Reid.

I loved the beginning when sarcastic, strong and independent Mina disguises herself as her brother and engages Simon, the Earl of Crestwick, to a duel. This deception didn't last too long, and Simon hires brave and brilliant Mina as his personal secretary.

Romance ensues, a strong and arrogant Earl who was thought to be devoid of emotions crumbles at the heroines feet.

The story begins on a rush and the momentum peters out a bit by the end, but I still enjoyed it and believed the romance.

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book.

Just a little bit shorter and a little bit sweeter than what we usually expect from Stacy Reid, A Matter of Temptation is a relatively low stress historical romance. Reid writes tension and heat like no other and those things wrapped in a story that seemed so easy was just what I needed.

Mina has been ruined. When her brother makes some poor choices for their small family, she takes an unconventional route to help restore their finances. Simon is cold. He is all business and all about changing the world. He doesn't think he needs connection or will ever care about love. They are both super wrong. I loved how their problems were actual problems, but the dark moment wasn't terribly dark. They were honest with each other and loved deeply. Both were so nice to see on page and allowed them to come together in a way that made my heart happy.

This is the first book in this new series. Stacey’s brother is to duel the Earl of Creswick over a card game. Stacey is afraid he will be hurt or worse killed. She takes his place in the duel and best the Earl. I loved the historical references to books, some that I had not heard of. I really enjoyed this book

Stacy Reid is the queen of historical romance in my eyes.

“I came alive for you, Mina. I love you beyond thoughts of scandal and consequences.”

Simon and Mina had me eating out of their hands. The way Stacy Reid writes romance feels like sitting in your favorite reading chair, with your favorite warm drink, in your comfiest clothes, and a cold day. The Romances never feel rushed or force, the pacing is perfect and everything pulls together so smoothly every time.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for an E-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Miss Mina Crawford's family is poor and barely surviving when her brother makes a foolish decision that leads to a duel with the powerful Earl of Creswick. She knows her brother could be killed, and she hatches a plan to take his place. After besting Simon, he decides he likes her bravery and hires her as his secretary. Neither of them have been living their lives in ways they want to, but with each other they decide to reach for what they want.

Man, I just finished A Scoundrel of Her Own and I loved it. Thought it was the perfect romance. It's because I had been so thoroughly spoiled with the last book I read by Stacy Reid that this one couldn't measure up. I thought the beginning was so promising, but as the story went on the problems started for me. The conversations in the middle were just super weird and awkward especially in a historical context. I have yet to find two characters who have such an odd conversation in the book. It lacked the nuance I was expecting. Mina was very bold, and she came across as very forceful and pushy. Simon would give a little, but then close back up. Sadly though, it happened too much and it was so fast. Felt like I was getting whiplash a little bit. They didn't make sense as a couple. I don't know. I'm bummed because I know how great Stacy Reid can be. When she is on it, it's wonderful and amazing. When it's off, it really doesn't work.

I was hooked from the start and did not want to put this one down! The heroine and hero meet when she sneakily takes her twin brother's place in a duel against the hero! A Matter of Temptation was a delightfully steamy romantic read I breezed through. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.