March 28, 2022
Bateman’s transfixing second Ruthless Rivals Regency romance (after A Reckless Match) embraces the adage about keeping one’s enemies closer than one’s friends as members of rival families engage in a heated affair. Lady Carys Davies is constantly pushing the edge of propriety with her scandalous fashion sense. But her neighbor, Tristan Montgomery, whose family and the Davies are in a centuries-long feud, believes that Carys has finally gone too far when he becomes convinced that she’s having an affair with the married Christopher Howe, who was courting and jilted Carys before his wedding. The real reason for Christopher and Carys’s secret meetings, however, is that he’s blackmailing her with the threat of disclosing that he took her virginity. When Tristan learns the truth, he’s incensed on Carys’s behalf—even more so when she admits she was underwhelmed by their lone sexual encounter. Unable to deny the sizzling attraction between them, Tristan offers to show Carys what she was missing—but what was supposed to be a purely physical arrangement becomes much more intense as feelings grow. The ambitious, intelligent leads are admirable and easy to root for, and their erotic spark is undeniable. The fast-paced romance and undercurrent of suspense keeps the pages flying.
November 1, 2022
Beverley A. Crick returns to narrate Bateman's second book in the "Ruthless Rivals" series (following A Reckless Match). Continuing the enemies-to-lovers theme of the first book is a historical romance about another set of Davies and Montgomery siblings. Wild and impetuous, Carys Davies's outlandish outfits and demeanor are just short of scandalous and serve to hide her true scandal. Tristan Montgomery, her childhood nemesis--son of her family's greatest rivals and her sister-in-law's brother--uncovers the truth, which he first sees as confirmation of her hoyden ways. Before long, the duo strike a deal that leads to them discovering their true feelings toward each other. Crick's significant experience narrating historical romance audiobooks is evident. Her abilities to differentiate among characters using a variety of voices and accents keeps listeners engaged in the story. With her talents, Crick ensures that Carys's Welsh origins are unmistakable. Capturing the couple's emotions, she further draws listeners into their tale. The choice of singing during two musical scenes adds another layer of enjoyment. VERDICT A delightfully entertaining production, which is sure to delight fans of historical romance audiobooks.--Amanda L. S. Murphy
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