Hazard a Guest
by Ava Devlin
Ember Donnelly is not a woman who needs rescuing.
Ten years ago, she turned a derelict gambling hell into one of the most infamous establishments in London, and she’s outplayed every man who’s tried to take it from her—until now. When a ruthless rival makes a dangerous play for all she holds dear, Ember must seek out aid from the last person in the world she wants to ask for help.
Joseph Cresson is a quiet, meticulous barrister with a well-known blushing weakness for the formidable Miss Donnelly. But a year in revolutionary Lisbon has left him stronger, steadier, and surprisingly difficult to fluster. He’s still a man of principle—he’s just no longer afraid of breaking a few rules to do what’s right. Like keeping Ember safe. Or finally telling her how he feels.
The plan is simple: avoid detection by the enemy, stop a hostile takeover, and keep an errant earl and a mischievous debutante out of the trouble served up on every passing platter at a party like this one. Joe and Ember are about to learn that at Blackcove, even the sharpest players can’t rig every game—and when hearts are on the table, all bets are off.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Ava Devlin's Hazard a Guest is a captivating historical romance that deftly intertwines themes of empowerment, love, and resilience. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century London, the novel offers a refreshing take on the genre by presenting a heroine who is as formidable as she is vulnerable. Ember Donnelly, the protagonist, is a woman who has carved out her own niche in a male-dominated world, transforming a dilapidated gambling hell into a thriving establishment. Her journey is not just about survival but about thriving in a society that often underestimates women.
One of the most striking aspects of the novel is its exploration of female empowerment. Ember is not your typical damsel in distress; she is a force to be reckoned with, a woman who has built her empire through sheer determination and cunning. Devlin does an excellent job of portraying Ember as a multidimensional character who is both strong and vulnerable. Her struggles are relatable, and her triumphs are inspiring. The author skillfully navigates the complexities of Ember's character, making her both relatable and aspirational.
Joseph Cresson, the male lead, is a refreshing departure from the typical alpha male archetype often found in romance novels. Instead, he is a quiet, meticulous barrister who has undergone significant personal growth. His time in revolutionary Lisbon has transformed him into a man who is not afraid to bend the rules to protect those he loves. Joseph's character development is one of the highlights of the novel. His evolution from a blushing admirer to a steadfast protector is both believable and engaging. The chemistry between Ember and Joseph is palpable, and their interactions are filled with tension and tenderness.
The novel's setting adds another layer of intrigue to the story. The world of gambling hells and high society parties is vividly brought to life through Devlin's descriptive prose. The author paints a picture of a world where danger lurks around every corner, and trust is a rare commodity. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable as Ember and Joseph navigate the treacherous waters of their world. The setting serves as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama, adding depth and richness to the narrative.
One of the novel's central themes is the idea of trust and betrayal. Ember's world is one where alliances are fragile, and loyalty is often bought and sold. Her decision to seek help from Joseph, a man she has long admired but never fully trusted, is a testament to her desperation and vulnerability. The novel explores the complexities of trust in relationships, both personal and professional. It raises questions about the nature of loyalty and the lengths one will go to protect what they hold dear.
Devlin's writing is both engaging and evocative. Her ability to create tension and build suspense is commendable. The plot is well-paced, with enough twists and turns to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The dialogue is sharp and witty, adding depth to the characters and their relationships. The author has a keen eye for detail, and her descriptions of the setting and characters are vivid and immersive.
In comparison to other historical romances, Hazard a Guest stands out for its strong character development and its focus on themes of empowerment and resilience. While it shares similarities with novels by authors like Sarah MacLean and Lisa Kleypas, Devlin's work is distinguished by its unique characters and its exploration of trust and betrayal. The novel's emphasis on a strong female lead who is both independent and vulnerable is a refreshing departure from traditional romance tropes.
Overall, Hazard a Guest is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of historical romance and those looking for a story with depth and substance. Ava Devlin has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. The book is a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted romance with a strong female lead.
In conclusion, Hazard a Guest is a triumph of storytelling, offering readers a rich tapestry of love, intrigue, and empowerment. Ava Devlin has created a world that is both captivating and complex, with characters that are as memorable as they are relatable. This novel is a testament to the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a standout in the genre and a worthy addition to any reader's bookshelf.
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