London’s Best Kep Secret
Midnight Secrets book 2
by Anabelle Bryant

This was an intense, emotional story of two people that although were living as husband and wife they really were two strangers. Jeremy Lockhart has fallen in love with his wife on sight. He vows to make her his no matter what he has do, even if he has to thwart everyone else by offering her parents a way out of debt.
Once married he knows not what to do with his new wife, he goes to great lengths to avoid her.

Lady Charlotte is sure her husband means to start their life together eventually, he’s just shy. But when he doesn’t go to her on their wedding night she’s baffled. She decides after having a conversation with her best friend on how her married life is she takes matters in her own hands. But is she prepared for the secrets he hides? Will her marriage survive before it even had a chance to begin?

This was another amazing read from the very talented Anabelle Bryant, she knows just how to draw you in. I loved the way the relationship slowly progressed from a slow burn to finally one of explosive proportions!
I highly recommend this wonderful new series you will not be disappointed!

I received a complimentary copy from the author, via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinion.

I found the first three quarters of the book frustrating. The facade of a marriage between Charlotte and Jeremy was evident. The constant reminders of Jeremy's worry that his deep dark secret would be revealed and he would lose his wife was a little daunting. It really consumed a lot of reading time. I also feel that the situation with Louisa, one of Charlotte's younger sisters, was haphazardly thrown into the story with no conclusion of how that situation between Louisa and her lover ended up. It also did not help that Charlotte, who asked for no secrets come between her and Jeremy, did the exact opposite. She lied and kept secrets from him. Charlotte put her sister before her marriage to Jeremy. Now this is where the story became a little more interesting. Malice, jealousy, greed and revenge drove Lord Mallory to malign Charlotte or Jeremy or both preferably. Jeremy had a strange ally in his friend Lord Lindsey who made himself useful by offering advice and gossip. Lindsey made it his business to know whatever was going on at the club. This inevitably became utterly useful to Jeremy. Unbeknownst to Jeremy, Mallory ended up at his townhouse waiting for him. When Charlotte returned home, she received him. Mallory knew of Charlotte's secret and decided to use it against her. He revealed his own intentions and alluded that Jeremy was hiding things from her. She dismissed him and flew to her chamber. A few minutes later, Charlotte's curiosity got the better of herself and she was determined to find any and all secrets Jeremy may hold in his study. At the same time Jeremy was with her father confessing his darkest secret. Charlotte found out what Jeremy was hiding and she fell apart in agony. She flew to her dear friend Amelia's country estate. When Jeremy returned home to confess all, Charlotte was gone. He pursued her, explained everything and shared his deepest feelings for her. Jeremy could only hope that Charlotte would see the sincerity of his words and forgive him. Charlotte was also worried about what Mallory was going to do. When the culmination of everything came, it was anticlimactic. Even though the story tried to capture my attention, it was not enough for a higher rating. There are several stories within the book. Concentration on one or two would be enough for a strong storyline. The major themes I take away from this is deceit, secrets, lies, anger, malice, greed, selfishness and a sort of half hearten romance. There is potential in this story. I just felt a little disappointed and unfortunately do not recommend it.

~~Review by Amy~~

Arranged marriage stories have always intrigued me. I can’t imagine marrying a veritable stranger. Lots of readers love them and I do too, but they really spike the tension for me. I’m a worrier and all I can think of is the myriad of ways such an arrangement can go wrong. But in the hands of Anabelle Bryant, it’s one of the most romantic stories I’ve ever read. And in her newest, London’s Best Kept Secret, it becomes one of the most empowering situations for Dearing and Charlotte to be placed in.

Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing was a quiet, reserved man. He was more than confident in his ability with finances but completely unconfident in matters of the heart. And with Lady Charlotte, he became riddled with self-doubt and devoid of conversational skills. So often he thought to approach her but then backed away. And unfortunately, other suitors were vying to fill the space. Once Dearing realized this, making Charlotte his became his sole focus. So he used what he knew best. Money. To ensure his betrothal to Charlotte, he went to great and somewhat underhanded lengths. Hopefully, Charlotte would grow in her affection for him before she discovered the truth of his actions. Because if she knew what he’d done to gain her hand in marriage, she would despise him. He needed a marriage based on trust and affection if it were to endure his betrayal. Dearing had planned their life meticulously but had failed to execute his plan, to change the status of his marriage from cordial to personal and, soon after, intimate. He knew he was to blame. He was so consumed by guilt, he couldn’t take what he so desperately wanted. His “crippling shyness and guilty knowledge of manipulative misdeeds” prevented him from approaching her. He was to blame for their fragile coexistence and it was time he did something about it. His very future lay at stake.

Lady Charlotte longed for the affectionate relationship her parents shared. Though she knew almost nothing of Lord Dearing, she admired him for extricating her family from ruin. She found him captivating, intelligent, heroic, and exceedingly handsome. She was certain, once married, they’d grow into friendship. And in time that friendship would hopefully grow into more. But they’d been married 10 months. 10 months without an embrace, a kiss, passion. Nothing but a stagnant, awkward tension that grew between them each day. She felt useless and unwanted, afraid Dearing didn’t desire her as she longed for him. She’d tried to be an amenable and biddable wife but politeness was getting her nowhere. It was all so confusing.

After turning to trusted friends for advice, Charlotte and Dearing both decided it was time to make changes. Dearing must court his wife, get to know her, woo her. Charlotte must become more courageous, flirt more. It was time for action. And things did change one step at a time. Sometimes three steps forward and one step back, but they were changing. It was obvious each craved the other’s nearness, affection, and admiration, but they still had much to learn about each other. Their marriage evolved slowly. Conversation, laughter, flirtation, and passion began to replace the cordial but strained relationship they’d shared. They were becoming closer each day. Both were beginning to feel a sense of contentment and unexpected relief. Finally, that elusive happiness appeared within reach. Would it be enough once Charlotte discovered the truth?

I was so anxious for Charlotte and Dearing’s story. I first met them in the first book of this Midnight Secrets series and it was more than obvious that Charlotte was unhappy in her marriage. At the time, I wanted to shake Charlotte and tell her to speak up. And I wanted to kick Dearing because, frankly, I thought he was a jerk. But of course, Anabelle Bryant worked her magic like she always does and showed me so much more of these two characters than I’d previously seen. It didn’t take long for me to fall completely in love with both of them and cheer for them to find their happily ever after.

What I’d mistaken for callousness and aloofness in Dearing was really insecurity, self-doubt, and fear of rejection. Dearing had incredible business acumen and no difficulties dealing in business affairs. He had no difficulty around women either when nothing was at stake. But “Charlotte elicited a strong and tangible reaction in him. She owned his heart.” Sure, his tactics gaining her hand weren’t the most admirable. But who could fault a man so desperately in love?

Where I’d first thought Charlotte was spineless and needed some sense shaken into her, I discovered she was quite strong. She didn’t jump to conclusions. She weighed things out in her mind. She worried that perhaps Dearing didn’t find her attractive. She too feared rejection. She felt restless and helpless at times but she remained hopeful. Hopeful that they could learn, grow, and evolve. I loved that about her, and the fact that she was determined to make the marriage work because she saw the goodness in her husband.

Their entire relationship truly moved in reverse of the norm. They were married before ever getting to know one another, court, and fall in love. I loved seeing that relationship and affection grow. It wasn’t always easy. There were definitely obstacles in their path that caused them to lose ground. But with each success, each smile, touch, embrace, or kiss, they each grew more confident and bold. They evolved together for each other and because of each other.

Dearing, who I’d thought an uncaring jerk turned out to be one of the most romantic and loving heroes I’ve read. And Charlotte, who I’d thought a wimp, was actually one of the strongest and level headed heroines I’ve known. It truly was like watching a butterfly emerge from its chrysalis and revealing itself to be something amazing and beautiful.

I am amazed at Anabelle Bryant’s talent in drawing these characters so well. This slow evolution of their characters, as well as their relationship, added so much to the story. The little intimacies that come from living together became even more powerful, and the slow but steady seduction amped up the sensuality. The love that unfolds between Charlotte and Dearing is tender, and the sexual tension between them practically crackles. When they finally came together, the passion was explosive.

I feel such a connection with this author’s books. Her vivid characters, beautiful and eloquent prose, and brilliant imagination always help me escape real life for a few hours and just daydream about a completely different time and place where there’s always a happy ending.

This is book 2 of the Midnight Secret Series. This is the story of Jeremy and Charlotte and their arranged marriage.
Jeremy is a Viscount and very adept at growing his fiances.
Charlotte is the daughter of an Earl and very proficient at playing the piano. It was love at first sight for Jeremy when he first saw Charlotte. Her beauty and her music spoke to him. So he does everything he can to secure her hand. Including being underhanded and deceitful.
So they marry as complete strangers. Charlotte has no idea what Jeremy has done. She thinks he has saved her and her family from financial ruin. He is the savior of her family.
What will happen when all secrets come out?
I liked this book but didn't love it. I'm not a big fan of arranged marriage books. I always feel the relationship is very one sided. I just felt these two characters were very immature. There were more conversations with oneself then with each other.
I really liked the first book in this series. I look forward to the next book.

This interesting historical romance is Book 2 in the Midnight Secrets series by Anabelle Bryant. I didn't read the previous book but wasn't the least bit lost; I wouldn't imagine anyone else would have any problems, either. I think I would enjoy the first one a little more than this one, though. This story was entertaining, but some actions on the parts of our two leads frankly got on my last nerve.

Charlotte and Jeremy had an arranged marriage. Her family was deeply in debt, and Jeremy bailed them out by marrying Charlotte, whom he secretly loved. Once married, though, Jeremy's secrets were keeping them apart. They still hadn't consummated their marriage after 10 months! She was falling in love with her husband and wanted a real marriage. Things seemed to be finally progressing...but then Charlotte's secrets began to interfere.

My irritation with the story can be summed up with one word - secrets. Everyone had them! Jeremy. Charlotte. Charlotte's father. Charlotte's sister. Jeremy's best friend Lindsey. As much love that existed between the parties, it seems no one could be honest. It was difficult to warm up to these characters with all the lying that was going on. However, I really enjoyed reading about the couple from the first book, and the little snippet from the next book totally intrigued me. Even with my annoyance with the plot here, the story ended well, so I will definitely be sticking with this series.

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

He sees her and must have her, and he orchestrates a financial difficulty for her father, marries her by paying off the debts, and then fixes her father's situation. It's all a secret and it wears on his heart so much, he won't touch her. She, too, has secrets. Which one will be revealed first or will it be too late for the love and HEA?


**received a review copy on netgalley**

3.5 stars - I usually love Ms. Bryant's romances. This one was just a bit better than okay. The characters are well fleshed-out and their story is well paced. My only complaint is that the chemistry never felt authentic. The author mentions over and over again how much the hero desires the heroine. Likewise, the heroine comments on the hero’s good looks and her desire too take their relationship further. Yet, if either were true, I don’t buy the 10 months of unconsummated marriage before the story begins.

I received an ARC of this book, from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. London’s Best Kept Secret is the second book in Anabelle Bryant’s turgid Midnight Secrets series. The hero and heroine are Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Deering and his lovely wife Lady Charlotte. The story is boy sees girl playing a piano across a crowded room and decides she is the one for him but she’s pretty and popular so to even up the field he bankrupts her family and then appears as the white knight to save them from ruin. It didn’t really work for me. It seemed long and dragged out there was the obligatory my virginal wife who I have not bedded yet after several months of marriage must be having an affair and even though I’ve done really terrible things to your family you must forgive me because I fell love with you before I even met you. Most of the action happens in the last 50 pages with some odd blackmail scheme that really makes no sense. I think if you enjoyed the first book you will probably like this one, it was just not my cup of tea. Medium steam Publishing Date March 26, 2019 #NetGalley #LondonsBestKeptSecret

Marriage bought, love sought!

It seems a late night bet at White's becomes a matter of some urgency for an unknown speculator as Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing's marriage plans progress.
Besotted by his first glimpse of Lady Charlotte playing at a ton recital leaves this business minded Viscount dazzled. But how to win her? Using his superb business skills he orchestrates Charlotte's family into financial ruin and then presents himself as the savior to all their problems.
Having won the lady by unfair means, Jeremy just doesn't know how to win her affection, and so leaves Charlotte to her own devices. Very awkward, a marriage in name only and Charlotte puzzled as to why the man who requested her hand in marriage has now left her to her own devices wondering how to grab her husband's attention. She does but not quite in the way she wanted.
I really lost patience with these two, their bad timing and even worse dithering.
Then just as all the stars seem aligned another blow was dealt.
A marriage of convenience turns out to be not. The torturous route to happiness became more and more convoluted and in danger of foundering. Love eventually reigned supreme leaving me exhausted!

A NetGalley ARC

Sometimes we make foolish mistakes, reckless decisions with the best of intentions but then reality sets in and what we have is a disaster simply waiting to happen. Jeremy, Viscount Dearing, is excellently talented in anything to do with finances but has very little clue as to how to express the feelings of his heart. In true, logical fashion when it seemed that he would remain shy and unable to express his affections to the lady he wanted to marry and that other suitors were also vying for her hand, Jeremy made a decision… one that would come back to haunt him in unexpected ways including giving enemies ammunition for his downfall and making his longed-for marriage a disaster from the beginning.

Charlotte has no true idea of how her marriage came about. She believed that her husband had affection for her but that has been proven false by his actions. Even as well protected as she has been Charlotte knew that it should never have taken months for them to share a true kiss let alone consummate their marriage. No, it’s obvious that her husband has no feelings for her. But she isn’t about to give up. She’ll seduce her husband if she has to, but she will learn the truth about her marriage for she cannot continue on like this. Be careful what you wish for, sometimes your wish will be granted.

LONDON’S BEST KEPT SECRET is an intense, sensuous journey for two people who should be living a happily married life but aren’t for there are secrets that should they come to light will destroy every last hope for their future. I was easily caught up into the world of Midnight Secrets once again. I adored both Jeremy and Charlotte, and it’s easy to see the affection between them and to understand how it can all go badly so very easily because of one decision. How this couple saves their marriage and confesses their love for each other is a beautiful experience that you should discover for yourself.

If you enjoy a good, solid Romance with interesting characters, intriguing story developments, a few secrets to share and some bad guys to thwart… then you’d love LONDON’S BEST KEPT SECRET for it has all of that and so much more to enjoy. I would highly recommend this story and the entire series to readers who love a romance with heart, mistakes, and enjoys that moment of redemption for a lover who did everything wrong for the right reasons… being in love.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

This story brought forth that amazing feeling of when I read my first historical romance. Mesmerized, enchanted and in love with the characters with the desire to read as many as I could! Yes I have the bookshelf to prove it! All of the elements of a little humor, hidden secrets, underlying desire and emotions that come off the page were woven into one of the best love stories I have read this year. Throw in a black adorable kitten and a secret the hero is having a hard time dealing with and I was hooked.
Jeremy, Viscount Dearling had offered for Charlotte without her even knowing him. Her family needed the money and he satisfied that with his funds and led her father to believe he had been enchanted with her since the first time he had heard her play the pianoforte. He was a reserved quiet man confident in his ability in finance but not of the heart. Charlotte had grown up in a loving houshold with three sisters. She was ready to make her marraige a real one, but there was one problem. They had been married ten mos and he had not spent any time with her let alone touched her!
You see he was hiding a terrible secret that he felt she would hate him if she knew. But as he sees other men attracted to her, he begins wooing and spending time with her. Can their marraige survive and become a real loving one? What if she find's out?
Anabelle Bryant has endeared my heart and I will forever be a fan since reading this story. Her characters come alive and her writing pullsthe emotions off the pages. This will go on my keeper shelf to be reread and cannot wait for the next book in this series!!

London’s Best Kept Secret by Anabelle Bryant is book Two in the Midnight Secrets Series. This is the story of Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing and Lady Charlotte Lockhard. I loved the previous book, but feel this is a standalone book if you choose to do that.
Charlotte's family were in dire finial need so she was to be married off to bring in finial help. Jeremy is the man that won her hand and now several months in their marriage of convenience they are no further in knowing each other. Jeremy does hold a secret that may turn Charlotte away from him but he guards it. They both start to want to learn more about the other...opening the door to their feelings growing.
I am such of fan of Ms. Bryant's writing! I just love her books...she is my go to author when I need a great romance story....love this book.

Charlotte Lockhard, Lady Dearing, is being gifted a kitten by her friend, Amelia Beckford, Duchess of Scarsdale. But, Charlotte knows that her husband, Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing, will not let her keep the adorable little ball of fluff.

Jeremy had rescued Charlotte’s family from financial ruin and Charlotte’s parents informed her the she would wed the man. Now, after 10 months, the marriage has yet to be consummated.

One thing Jeremy likes to do is find investments that may seem risky, but have made him quite wealthy. But, Jeremy has a secret about the financial transaction he made with Charlotte’s father. Should she ever learn the secret, he fears she will hate him. Therefore, his secret is locked in a leather box on his desk and he carries the key with him everywhere…until one day he loses it.

Jeremy spends a lot of time in his study working on his accounts. But he breaks away when he hears Charlotte play the piano in the afternoon. She is an accomplished pianist. They both long to break the ice between them and make their marriage a real one.

When Jeremy realizes how attractive Charlotte is to other men, he decides it’s time to woo and court his wife. Before long, they are spending more time together and getting to know one another.

Can their marriage become a loving one? Should Charlotte ever learn the secret he carries, will she hate him?

The author did a great job writing this love story that grows in steps. Both Charlotte and Jeremy are well-constructed characters and I found myself rooting for them to open their hearts to one another. Of course, when you add a kitten to the mix, it can’t help but be a fun story. Well done, Annabelle Bryant!

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Anabelle Bryant has done it again! Another heartwarming, engrossing tale of longing, lies, betrayal, redemption and ultimately love.

Charlotte and Jeremy, Lord Dearing wedded after Jeremy made an arrangement with her father, due to the family suddenly being without funds. What Charlotte doesn’t know, Jeremy bankrupted the business owned by her father just to gain Charlotte’s hand in marriage. He did it out of desire, and longing. Her beauty and skill on the piano captured him completely. Once married, guilt sat it. Would their marriage work, would Charlotte ever love him? Charlotte had secrets of her own, is her longing for a loving marriage enough to break the ties that bind them to their secrets. Read, and you’ll find out.

Another hit from Ms. Bryant. Great characters, slow-burn romance, and an intriguing story about the webs the hero and heroine weave to keep secrets from each other. We watch the webs slowly tighten, and wonder how they will ever be unraveled. I received an ARC of this book.

the secret you ask? I'll never tell! What I will tell you is this book is fantastic! Wonderful complex characters and a fun storyline with lots of twists and turns. This book will keep you wanting more and you won't be able to put down! I cannot wait for the next book by this author! She is a fantastic writer and writes with such clarity you feel you are in the story and are with the characters. Everything is so vividly clear!

Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing, is used to being in control, but from his first sight of Lady Charlotte, his carefully cultivated world is rocked to its foundations. Determined to best her other, more eligible suitors, he goes to great lengths to ensure his betrothal to Charlotte. A locked black leather box holds the dark secret that has assured his success. Innocent Lady Charlotte is baffled by her new husband’s behaviour, her family’s dire financial straits did not allow her the luxury of an extended courtship. Now after ten months of marriage they are still strangers.
I found this to be a well written book that was well paced & it held my interest all the way through whilst I read I wondered how on earth Jeremy would get himself out of the hole he’d dug for himself & what Charlotte would do on learning the truth I must admit I was disappointed that Charlotte didn’t make him suffer far more but so saying she did act in character all the way through. I really liked Jeremy but couldn’t condone his actions to win Charlotte nor his secrets & lies. I found Charlotte to be very immature & very much the innocent debutante. I would have liked to have learnt what happened to Louisa.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

Well, to start off, this secret isn’t all that well-kept, since the author hints at it enough for the reader to figure out what the hero is keeping secret from his wife. Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing, not only has an overtly symbolic name, he is also purported to be an extremely wily and successful businessman who is also paralyzingly shy around women. So when he caught sight of Lady Charlotte one day, he determined to marry her even though he’d never talked with her. How wily can the guy be?

The book starts off after 10 months of marriage with us being told that this man who was so head-over-heels about this woman, still hasn’t consummated the marriage. Charlotte thinks he doesn’t like her and she worries over taking a kitten as a gift from her best friend because she thinks her husband would disapprove. Come on, Jeremy, you gotta do better than that if you want to win the heart of Lady Lockhart.

Add in a mysterious wager we learn about in the book’s prologue, and there are supposed to be all sorts of secrets abounding surrounding the Lockhart marriage. But anyone can figure out what those secrets are so the only reason to keep reading is to try and figure out how people could behave so stupidly and how they’re going to fix their problems.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.

Wow! I’m in love with this series. London’s Best Kept Secret is the second in the Midnight Secrets trilogy. It can be read as a stand-alone novel but I highly recommend you read Book 1 as well. It is the story of Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing and Charlotte Lockhart, Lady Dearing. They have been married for 10+ months but have not touched each other in those months. Each has hidden their feelings for one another. How long can they continue to hide their feelings? How long will Dearing be able to hide his secret? This story is so good you’ll be drawn in from the first page until the last. Take a trip to Regency London through the pages and fall in love with Charlotte and Jeremy and their black cat. I promise you won’t regret reading it. I highly recommend this and any by Anabelle Bryant. I obtained this copy through NetGalley and am voluntarily reviewing.

This is my fair and honest review in return for this ARC. I am very disappointed to have to give this lack lustre review but that is the way I perceived this story. The blurb read well, unfortunately it did not translate to the story. There was just not much to it.