Cover Image: Tempting Fate

Tempting Fate

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Member Reviews

This book is adorable. Felicity is precious. Gabriel is everything I ever knew he would be. I adore the big, hulking beast. Felicity is every thing. She is gentle, loving, patient, and just so aptly named. Felicity and Gabriel go together like peanut butter and jelly. She has anxiety attacks, he keeps her safe. They are perfect for each other.


The story is so sweet and precious. Prepare to swoon. Prepare to also scream "TELL HER!!!!!" like at least 12 times. It is all good. It works out. The book is not long, but a lot happens. I was absolutely glued to the story. Dinner might have been a few hours later than usual yesterday, but everyone lived.


I highly recommend this story. Indeed, this whole series. These Goode Girls are amazing. I can't wait for the rest of the series!

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Best one of the series... Gabriel and Felicity were so good together. I loved watching Gabriel finally give into his feelings for Felicity. Felicity kindness was exactly what he needed.

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Wow! What a delight to read once again such an accomplished author.

Gabriel/Gareth is a broken man who has a savage background and does not trust his emotions for Felicity Goode. Felicity has what in modern times we would call an anxiety disorder. She is often troubled by terrors and panic attacks but feels safe with Gareth who she hires to protect her from outside murderous threats not realizing he is the man who saved her life in the past.

I enjoyed this book. It is always my delight to read a Kerrigan Byrne book. She brings to life the darker elements of Victorian times as well as the romantic natures of her protagonists. Here we have two lost souls who are meant for each other but finding there way to a Happy-Ever-After is fraught with pitfalls. This is the fourth book in the series and I had no trouble understanding what went before in previous books, however I do think this book can be enjoyed even more if the previous books are read first.

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Well this was absolutely adorable and everything I wanted in a historical romance! I mean it's like this author KNEW how much I love the protective alpha trope and she wrote this for me!

Our main character, Felicity has such a tender, kind heart. Her life was being threatened and she decided to hire a bodyguard to protect her while she trys to find herself a husband. Enter: one dreamy, broken, protective alpha hero, Gabriel! He stole my heart! He's been watching her for a while now and just wanted to keep her safe. I just couldn't get enough of these two. It was like they were giving my heart a big ol' hug!!!

I haven't read any of the other books in this series and while I think it's probably best if you, since technically you meet these characters in the previous books. The author did a great job of recapping so you weren't lost and could read it as a standalone.

This was such a sweet story! It had great build up and a couple heated scenes that had me clutching my pearls. While the main character may be sweet and innocent, she isn't afraid to try new things. *wink, wink* Highly recommend this wonderful story especially if you love a good protector, bodyguard trope!

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I wanted to read this story since Gabriel was first introduced earlier in the series. I was so intrigued by the quiet, protective man, as well as Felicity, the reserved Goode sister who captured his heart. And I have to say – it was my favorite in the series! I loved the characters and intrigue, and the love story was delightfully romantic!

Felicity is the introvert of the family and is a bit more reserved than her three sisters. She also struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. With men only interested in her inheritance, and someone violently targeting her, Felicities life is in upheaval, so it’s not surprising that her anxiety is exacerbated. I thought her anxiety was represented really well, and I could totally relate to her feelings. Felicity often finds peace and solace in her greenhouse, and Gabriel helps her with breathing exercises to help control her panic attacks.

Felicity is also sensitive and kind, and she has such a giving heart, yet she struggles with self-worth. It’s wonderful to see her confidence grow throughout the story, and I think much of her growth stems from the strength and support she receives from Gabriel. Gabriel, however, feels unworthy of her love and affection. His criminal past and violent tendencies make him feel like a poor match for the innocent and lovely Felicity. However, Felicity sees the good in him that even he doesn’t see.

The romance between Felicity and Gabriel is swoon-tastically wonderful! You could tell from their first meeting earlier in the series that Gabriel was taken with Felicity, and he has loved her from afar for a long time. Their relationship is slow-building and riddled with angst and sexual tension, which is fantastic!! And the way Gabriel thinks about and feels about Felicity is absolutely swoon-worthy! Take a look at his reaction when she smiles:

"A smile from her was akin to a kiss from the sun or God’s very own forgiveness, And tonight, she was every inch a goddess."

So beautiful – the poignancy and depth of his feelings are lovely!! Felicity and Gabriel seem like two people who don’t fit, but for some reason, they do. They are very different from one another in so many ways. She is delicate and gentle, whereas he is hard and fierce. Violence is his closest friend, and she can’t stomach the sight of blood. Yet they both have strong relationships with their siblings, and they both love deeply and are protective of those they care about. Gabriel’s determination to keep Felicity safe at all costs puts him in perilous danger more than once, and their care and concern for each other make for a magical romance. I also love how easily they understand each other. Felicity and Gabriel are both wounded souls, albeit for different reasons, who have an innate understanding of each other’s needs. They bring out the best in each other, and their chemistry is wonderful.

The intrigue is also gripping, and I was shocked at the surprising twists in the story. Between someone trying to kill Felicity, nefarious criminals from Gabriel’s past still at large, and greedy men trying to gain Felicity’s inheritance, it’s unclear who is targeting her. Many shocking secrets and revelations, as well as several suspense-filled scenes, add mystery and danger to the plot and make for an immersive read.

I also like that the Goode sisters are reunited in the book. It’s fabulous to see the sisters together with their significant others. Though their lives have changed, they still share the bond on sisterhood, and their love for each other, regardless of where their lives take them, remains.

I’m so thankful to NetGalley, Gnarly Wool Publishing, and Kerrigan Byrne for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review, and I think readers who like historical romances with great characters and a bit of intrigue will adore the book!

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Felicity Goode has very much lived up to her name (being the only "good" daughter in the family). After being left everything after the death of her father Felicity receives a threatening note. She decides to hire a man to protect her. Enter Gareth Severand (aka the presumed dead Gabriel Sauvageau). When the danger and mystery get closer and closer to Felicity, she doesn't just fight for her life, but also fights her attraction to the mysterious Gareth. But what will happen if he can't protect her or if she finds out who he really is?

This is the fourth book in the Goode Girls Romance series. I really enjoyed this book. It was smart with just the right amount of heat between the hero and heroine. The mystery added to my enjoyment of the the book as well, and I finished it in one day.

*I was provided an ARC by Netgalley and the publisher for my honest feedback

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Oh my gosh!!! This is by far my most favorite book of the year! This has everything I love in any genre of romance.

Gabriel was a hero that was damaged and broken with outward scars that most looked upon with revulsion. He has never been with a woman but from the moment he laid eyes on Felicity he was taken by her. The way he originally hid in the shadows to watch her checked boxes I didn’t even know I had, making me giddy with excitement. Fiercely protective over her, Gabriel would do anything to keep her safe even as he imagined what he would do to those men who would court her for her hand in marriage. I absolutely loved him and his all consuming adoration of the heroine.

Felicity was the type of heroine some might not appreciate but which I love to read about. She was so sweet, innocent, the one Goode sister that the rest of the family was protective over. Essentially, she was everything good that one could imagine and yet she suffered from panic attacks and was fearful of so many things in life. What could such a heroine need except a big, burly, rumbly hero with a scarred face and the ability to easily kill with his hands?

This was a fast paced story with lots of danger and action. While the chemistry is evident between Gabriel and Felicity, this is a very slow burn but perfect for the relationship they were developing. When they do yield to one another, holy heck, the pages ignited with an inferno of heat. The fact that Gabriel didn’t magically know how to make love was refreshing as was the way that this couple worked it all out in what felt a real and believable way.

The ending was amazing as it reveals something I never expected. No cliffhanger but so much potential for more…? Highly recommend this one to those who love a historical romance that follows a bit more traditional lines but manages to make it feel fresh and new.

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I received a free copy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
After reading Mercy's story I could wait to get my hands on this book. I enjoyed Mercy's book but Gabriel was the one who intrigued me.
Felicity has panic attacks and what appears to an anxiety disorder and now someone is trying to hurt and maybe even kill her. She hires Gabriel to protect her.
What she doesn't know is that Gabriel has been in love with her since he first saw her. He was disfigured and now the world things him dead but he is determined to protect Felicity.
I loved Gabriel, he was strong and kind, brave and vulnerable.
He really made this book great.

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Tempting Fate by Kerrigan Byrne - Gabriel Sauvageau was certainly built with the perfection and precision of the most ingenious of machinery. He rippled with strength, and radiated masculinity. In the days when size and strength was revered over birth and breeding, Gabriel would have been a king. Yet, he was seen as a monster. And Felicity was the broken one. Her fretting would drive him mad, if her snoring didn’t first. She had fits, spasms of helpless terror that make no sense and reduce her to nothing without warning. But together, they would be perfect. Kerrigan weaves together a heartwarming tale of complicated strength and precarious innocence that will lead you to a most fulfilling happily ever after. In true Kerrigan style you will be delighted with pages and pages of fanciful prose chock full of delightful vocabulary.

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Just like our heroine, Felicity Goode, "Tempting Fate" starts quietly and the story picks up pace as Felicity's circumstances and confidence grows.

The last of the four Goode girls to be married, and left at home only with the staff to help her, Felicity has to be on guard for not only unscrupulous men only interested in the significant inheritance left by her father, but she also has to stay alive, as someone is trying to kill her!

Who is mysterious Gareth? And who is trying to kill her?

Kerrigan Byrne does it again, with a fantastic twists and turns, taking us on Felicity's "journey" into discovery of herself worth and that she is stronger than she thinks and, at the same time, discovering the joy of loving and being loved.

Thank you to Xpresso Book Tours and Netgalley for this e-ARC.

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I had already anticipated loving this book because of Felicity but I didn’t realize how much I would love this book. Felicity is probably one of the most relatable characters Kerrigan Byrne has written and I have read a lot of her books. The hero and heroine, although total opposites on the outside, are exactly what I love to see in romances, two people don’t seem like they would fit together but have an unexpected and thrilling romance.

The “Goode” family name has been through some hard times in these past few books. Felicity is the “good” one in her family but when her life is in danger from an unknown assailant, she decides to hire a bodyguard. Gabriel Sauvageau has lived a violent life and is the best candidate in keeping her safe. Watching and guarding from a distance, he has been keeping an eye on Felicity and has longed for her from behind the shadows.

Felicity and Gabriel are opposites but are so right for each other. Felicity is the shy, introverted bookworm with anxiety. Gabriel is the disfigured brute of a man who has lived his life in the shadows. What I love about Kerrigan Byrne books is that a lot of her characters believe themselves to be broken. Then either hero, heroine or both realize the other isn’t broken but just needs someone to help them through the difficult times. It isn’t about “fixing” one another but just bringing out the best in each other but also recognizing the “bad” as well as the good. This is what I love about her books.

The romance was so heart-melting and heart-racing. Felicity has a hard time being around men but Gabriel, not exactly looking like the friendliest puppy, doesn’t scare her. She is drawn to him. She feels safe around him. Gabriel feels he will never deserve to be in her light. Felicity and Gabriel have been through bad times but when Gabriel laughs and Felicity can stand up for herself, I know all is as it should be. When they look into each other’s eyes and accept not only each other but themselves I was brought to tears.

The plot was so good because I had no idea who was after Felicity. Was Felicity even the target? It was interesting mystery and ended in a way I absolutely did not see coming which I love. I was always wondering why there were three more books in this series and now I know why. I. Can’t. Wait.

*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*

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This book is absolutely perfect. I keep telling Kerrigan Byrne is becoming one of my favorites romance writers!
Disfigured in fighting pits as a lad, Gabriel Sauvageau has lived his entire life without the touch of a woman. But that doesn´t prevent him for loving shy, bespectacled Felicity Goode. Even though he can´t have her, that doesn’t stop him from watching her. Guarding her.
Wondering if her gentle touch would soothe his savage soul.
Though she wiles away hours immersed in the pages of romance novels, shy and anxious Felicity Goode has vowed never to become a bride. How can she share a life—not to mention a bed—with a man if she can’t bring herself to share a simple conversation without trembling and stuttering? Once news of her obscene inheritance circulates through the ton, she is barraged not only by a slew of suitors, but also several distressing threats against her life.
What she needs is a bodyguard. The large, scarred ruffian she finds on her stoop is exactly what she has been looking for.
So why does his presence make her tremble in ways that have nothing to do with fear?
This is an amazing love story. It’s soooo romantic and sweet. I absolutely love the idea of a virgin hero. Felicity is such a beautiful soul. So tender and generous. Together they are perfection. The sexy scenes are emotional and hot at the same time. He fights his attraction all the way, but love is going to find a way to match these tortured souls.
Beautiful beautiful story. This book is a must! I highly recommend it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

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I am OBSESSED with this serious. Amazing mental health rep. Social anxiety was covered so well! I also loved that they were both virgins because I feel like that never happens. Also, I was just swooning so hard. I think this might be my favorite book out of the series but I really don’t know.

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Another enrapturing tale by one of the best authors who never disappoints!

As the fourth book in the historical romance “Goode Girl” series, Tempting Fate tells the intensely romantic story between the youngest sister of the Goode girls, Felicity, and Gabriel Sauvageau, a man who has longed for Felicity since laying eyes on her years before. While Felicity and Gabriel are separately coming to terms with paths chosen ahead for them, a chance meeting and a dangerous plot twists their fates together with much uncertainty and intrigue.

From the opening scene, all the way until the closing tableau, this book filled my senses with all the emotions a romantic would ever long for. Although I knew much about these characters having devoured the other books of the series, I loved how their individual personalities were reflected deeper through their actions and thoughts - to the point where I could personally relate with their hang ups and hesitancies. The intensity between Felicity and Gabriel is palatable, and the hurdles they must both individually and together overcome were realistic and tastefully addressed. Byrne has an amazing way with descriptions and intimacy that keeps the story interesting and flowing seamlessly. It does not present itself as just another romance book, but reflects human struggle, mixed in with some mystery.

Although I have read the other books in the “Goode Girls” series and the knowledge of them does provide better details about the characters, prior reading would not be required to enjoy this book.

If one is looking for a passionate, toe-curling historical romance read that is both dark and light, pulling and pushing on the heart, then Tempting Fate is an outstanding choice!

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THANK YOU for the ARC to read and review.

The most anticipated story in the Goode Girl Series and it did not disappoint. Gabriel and Felicity's story.
Gabriel falls for Felicity the first time he sees her, but because of his facial injuries and his past he feels he will never be worthy of her, but he continues to watch over her as a protector in the shadows.

Felicity, incapacitated by anxiety and an extreme introvert, lives behind the stories she reads. Her father places his entire fortune at her hands and now someone is out to cause her harm. Gabriel, now under a new name, vows to protect her.

These two tip toe around their attraction with a beautifully written slow burn.

I believe readers will be satisfied with their HEA and the fact that we have some surprises that will most likely lead to more Goode stories.

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*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

I freaking love this series!!!

Summary:
Disfigured in fighting pits as a lad, Gabriel Sauvageau has lived his entire life without the touch of a woman. As the brains and brawn behind London's most ferocious smuggling syndicate, he knows he doesn't deserve shy, bespectacled Felicity Goode. But that doesn't stop him from watching her. Guarding her.

Wondering if her gentle touch would soothe his savage soul.

Though she wiles away hours immersed in the pages of romance novels, shy and anxious Felicity Goode has vowed never to become a bride. How can she share a life—not to mention a bed—with a man, if she can't bring herself to share a simple conversation without trembling and stuttering? Once news of her obscene inheritance circulates through the ton, she is barraged, not only by a slew of suitors, but also several distressing threats against her life.

What she needs is a bodyguard.

The large, scarred ruffian she finds on her stoop is exactly what she has been looking for.

So, why does his presence make her tremble in ways that have nothing to do with fear?

Thoughts:
Once again, Byrne had me sucked into almost immediately. I was just going to read a few pages of this the other day and I read half of it in one sitting. I continue to enjoy the Goode Girl series as little side treats. I loved Felicity. Her natural curiosity and love of life is so beautiful. Yes, she is shy and has been protected for most of her life. But she isn't spoiled and she isn't stupid. When there appears to be threats to her life, she hires a bodyguard. She doesn't put her head in the sand.

Gabriel is a severely disfigured hero at the end of the previous book and I loved that he was so obsessed with protecting Felicity, enough to risk his hidden identity to keep herself while her family is away. He just can't stay away, but all he wants to do is protect and not get too wrapped up in her temptation. Of course, that's not going to happen.

This was another 5/5 for me and I continue to only wish they were longer. But I also love how quickly they are being released, so I don't mind.

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I have been waiting for Felicity and Gabriel’s story since they first met and I hoped for sparks and holy wow did Kerrigan Byrne bring the sparks and explosions and heat that goes with it.

I have throughly enjoyed this series and each book has gotten better and better so this of course is my new favorite.

I highly recommend this book for people who enjoy romance or just well written and amazing books.

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Tempting Fate is my favorite of the Goode Girls series so far! When I learned that Felicity and Gabriel would be paired together I wasn't really surprised given the interactions in the previous books, but I also wasn't sure what to expect. I was very pleased by the pacing of this book and the character development. I feel like both characters learned to come out of their shells a bit for different reasons and mainly with each other. I thought their relationship was sweet! It's a book I would eagerly re-read in the future.

One tiny note, there were a few occasions in the book that someone said "my sister" in French but it was written incorrectly with the masculine mon instead of the feminine ma. This would have been a simple check in Google Translate for anyone to double check the correct translation. I LOVED the entire book but that one flaw did stand out a bit because it was so easily fixable.

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An incredibly easy 5 stars. Never at any point in the book did I even start thinking 'I don't know, maybe this will end up being 4 stars'. lol. I have really enjoyed almost all of the books in her Victorian Rebels and Goode Girls series, so I requested an advance copy to review the second I saw it on NetGalley (also thanks to Oliver Heber books for granting my request). And this probably joins The Highwayman and The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo as my all-time favorites of hers (and I've read nearly all of them).

The hero is a semi-broken ex-criminal-kingpin, bent on keeping her safe whatever the cost, (what's not to love really?) =D and the heroine is about as opposite of that as you can get, she's anxiety prone and a bit fragile (though not in a way that annoyed me as some weakling heroines) and is genuinely a sweetheart who is easy to care about. I love them for each other.

The first couple chapters pick up very soon after the climax of the last book, (about his brother and her sister) ,so it would probably add something to have read it first, but this fills you in on everything you need to know, so I don't think it would hurt this story too much if it were the first one you'd read. (Though there are of course spoilers for some of the previous books, so bare that in mind).

Gritty, steamy, swoony (he just loves her so much! lol). I read it nearly non-stop all the way through and was genuinely just delighted throughout. It won't be for everyone of course, but if you like any of her other historical romance, definitely try this one.

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Someone is trying to kill heiress Felicity Goode. She decides to hire a beast of a bodyguard whom she does not realize is Gabriel, a man who has saved her before. Gabriel feels he is not good enough for sweet Felicity, but she feels she could have no other. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Oliver Heber Books for my honest review.

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