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The Villain
For readers of USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell’s The Duke Alone, The Heiress at Sea, A Sure Duke, The Captain, and While You Were Sailing—
comes a darker tale of passion, power, and betrayal at the edge of empire.
The McQuoids built their fortune on the sea.
And their ruin may come from it.
When London’s most eminent shipping families ignite a feud over dominance of the seas, no one is safe from the fallout. Alliances are forged in secrets and broken in scandal. Daughters become pawns. Enemies become lovers. And every vow is bought in blood—or desire.
From the storm-lashed coastlines of England to the icy harbors of Scotland, and beyond, each story in the McQuoid Family Saga follows a love born from the wreckage of dangerous men who swore vengeance, and the women who bring them to their knees.
Ruthless. Romantic. Unforgiving.
This is not polite society.
This is war at sea—and in the heart.
Each book stands alone, but together reveals the rise, the ruin, and the redemption of the McQuoid family empire.
A Dark Regency Romance
The Villain
Feared. Ruthless. Unforgivable.
August Archdale, Earl of Culross, has earned every dark whisper attached to his name.
Stopping Meghan Smith’s wedding is not cruelty—it is necessity. Her family’s rising shipping dynasty will ruin him, and the Earl of Culross does not lose. Not his power. Not his empire. Not even his soul.
Yet Meghan refuses to break.
Where he expects terror, she gives defiance. Where he demands submission, she offers fire. And when her tears finally fall, they mark the moment August realizes the
She is no longer his leverage—
She is his undoing.
Desire ignites amid storms and scandal, blurring the line between vengeance and obsession. And the man who embraced the role of villain will learn too late that loving her is the most dangerous revenge of all.
Heat Sinfully explicit.
comes a darker tale of passion, power, and betrayal at the edge of empire.
The McQuoids built their fortune on the sea.
And their ruin may come from it.
When London’s most eminent shipping families ignite a feud over dominance of the seas, no one is safe from the fallout. Alliances are forged in secrets and broken in scandal. Daughters become pawns. Enemies become lovers. And every vow is bought in blood—or desire.
From the storm-lashed coastlines of England to the icy harbors of Scotland, and beyond, each story in the McQuoid Family Saga follows a love born from the wreckage of dangerous men who swore vengeance, and the women who bring them to their knees.
Ruthless. Romantic. Unforgiving.
This is not polite society.
This is war at sea—and in the heart.
Each book stands alone, but together reveals the rise, the ruin, and the redemption of the McQuoid family empire.
A Dark Regency Romance
The Villain
Feared. Ruthless. Unforgivable.
August Archdale, Earl of Culross, has earned every dark whisper attached to his name.
Stopping Meghan Smith’s wedding is not cruelty—it is necessity. Her family’s rising shipping dynasty will ruin him, and the Earl of Culross does not lose. Not his power. Not his empire. Not even his soul.
Yet Meghan refuses to break.
Where he expects terror, she gives defiance. Where he demands submission, she offers fire. And when her tears finally fall, they mark the moment August realizes the
She is no longer his leverage—
She is his undoing.
Desire ignites amid storms and scandal, blurring the line between vengeance and obsession. And the man who embraced the role of villain will learn too late that loving her is the most dangerous revenge of all.
Heat Sinfully explicit.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2026
139 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
140 books2,573 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 18, 2026
This is my 101st book by Christi Caldwell. I read 2 of her books in 2013 but didn’t pick her up again faithfully until 2015. She is such a good author and I love her writing. She always has great stories and depending on the book, well written sex scenes. Except I have to say her books lately have been really, really steamy. Let's hope this new one is as well.
I liked this book. It was very different than a normal "ton" read. I liked August and Meghan and their story. Again a different type of story. I did feel you really had to know the family dynamic (1st book) to really kind of understand these characters and the backstory. It didn't deter from the story but would make a better read. Overall I really liked it. I have really been loving Christi's last two series so much. Keep up the great writing.
I liked this book. It was very different than a normal "ton" read. I liked August and Meghan and their story. Again a different type of story. I did feel you really had to know the family dynamic (1st book) to really kind of understand these characters and the backstory. It didn't deter from the story but would make a better read. Overall I really liked it. I have really been loving Christi's last two series so much. Keep up the great writing.
May 8, 2026
2.5 Stars
So much potential, the set up was going great until the H ruined it. All these talks of OW, how he won’t marry the h, and the h hopelessly in love with the H 🙄
So much potential, the set up was going great until the H ruined it. All these talks of OW, how he won’t marry the h, and the h hopelessly in love with the H 🙄
Read
March 27, 2026Meh.
April 24, 2026
Rating 3.5
He originally courted the heroine’s sister as part of a calculated move to merge their shipping companies, but the relationship ended in a spectacular and messy breakup. Fueled by resentment and a need for revenge, he shifts his focus—and the heroine becomes his new target.
What complicates things is that the heroine had already fallen for him during the time he was involved with her sister. From her perspective, there were moments that felt real, moments that made her believe his feelings might extend beyond his original intentions. That hope is ultimately shattered when she discovers the truth: his actions are rooted in revenge, culminating in manipulation and even kidnapping.
The story starts off a bit slow, but it finds its footing a couple of chapters in and becomes much more engaging. Once it picks up, the chemistry between the hero and heroine is undeniable, with strong sexual tension that carries the story forward.
That said, the emotional payoff felt a little uneven. His realization that he loves her seemed abrupt and didn’t flow as naturally as it could have, which made the transition less convincing. I also found myself wishing for an epilogue to give a bit more closure after everything they went through.
Overall, an enjoyable read with solid tension and an intriguing premise, even if some of the emotional beats could have been more fully developed.
He originally courted the heroine’s sister as part of a calculated move to merge their shipping companies, but the relationship ended in a spectacular and messy breakup. Fueled by resentment and a need for revenge, he shifts his focus—and the heroine becomes his new target.
What complicates things is that the heroine had already fallen for him during the time he was involved with her sister. From her perspective, there were moments that felt real, moments that made her believe his feelings might extend beyond his original intentions. That hope is ultimately shattered when she discovers the truth: his actions are rooted in revenge, culminating in manipulation and even kidnapping.
The story starts off a bit slow, but it finds its footing a couple of chapters in and becomes much more engaging. Once it picks up, the chemistry between the hero and heroine is undeniable, with strong sexual tension that carries the story forward.
That said, the emotional payoff felt a little uneven. His realization that he loves her seemed abrupt and didn’t flow as naturally as it could have, which made the transition less convincing. I also found myself wishing for an epilogue to give a bit more closure after everything they went through.
Overall, an enjoyable read with solid tension and an intriguing premise, even if some of the emotional beats could have been more fully developed.
March 14, 2026
August Archdale, Earl of Culross, has earned every dark whisper attached to his name & he’s out for revenge. Stopping Meghan Smith’s wedding is not cruelty—it is necessity. Her family’s rising shipping dynasty will ruin him. But what August doesn’t know is that Meghan fell in love with him ages ago. So when he kidnaps her as she’s travelling to her wedding things don’t go to plan.
Another riveting, engrossing romance, it’s got its share of angst, action, steam & of course romance. I loved the chemistry between August & Meghan & loved the banter between them – she’s no shrinking violet! I loved their journey to a HEA. The characters have lovely depth, the pace is good, I loved it
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Another riveting, engrossing romance, it’s got its share of angst, action, steam & of course romance. I loved the chemistry between August & Meghan & loved the banter between them – she’s no shrinking violet! I loved their journey to a HEA. The characters have lovely depth, the pace is good, I loved it
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
April 23, 2026
3⭐️
I really liked this from the start. The middle got so good—I couldn’t put it down and was literally thinking about it all day when I wasn’t reading.
And then… it just dropped. Like a full dive. And I suddenly didn’t like it at all, which honestly sucks.
The dynamic between August and Meghan completely flipped, and not in a good way. Meghan spent the first half of the book so strong—she was obviously in love with him, but she never let him walk all over her. Their banter was amazing. She gave it right back, and August was constantly trying to get a rise out of her—it was fun, sharp, and honestly addictive to read.
Yes, he could be cruel, but Meghan always stood her ground.
But the second she tells him she loves him—after he’s especially cruel—it’s like she completely folds. She loses that spark that made her so good, and I kept waiting for her to push back again… and she just didn’t.
And August?? Completely different person. This man who was such a confident, almost ruthless lothario suddenly turns into this needy, insecure guy who needs Meghan. It was night and day, and not in a satisfying “growth” way—just… jarring.
And Meghan’s shift made it worse. She suddenly felt so timid and almost childlike at times that when the love scene happened, I was like… I’m uncomfortable?? She’s a child! This doesn’t feel right. Especially with her pulling away, cowering at things he said—it completely changed the tone of their relationship.
I actually stopped at 82% because it felt like I was reading a completely different book. Once they got on the boat, everything shifted—and not in a way that worked.
Also… the timing of that scene?? She’s literally seasick and throwing up every 10 minutes and that’s when we’re doing this?? I couldn’t get past it. If I’m sick like that, don’t even look at me, let alone touch me.
I love Christi’s work—this is like my 25th book of hers—and that’s why this was so disappointing. Because I did love parts of it. I just didn’t love where it went.
——-
[ my summary]
The McQuoid empire was built on the sea, and now rival shipping dynasties are circling, ready to tear everything down. Alliances are fragile, daughters are bargaining chips, and love is never just love—it’s leverage.
August Archdale, Earl of Culross, has fully embraced his reputation as a villain. Ruthless, calculated, and feared, he will do whatever it takes to protect his power—even if that means destroying Meghan Smith’s future by stopping her wedding. To him, it’s strategy. Necessary. Inevitable.
But Meghan doesn’t break the way he expects. Where he demands control, she pushes back. Where he expects fear, she gives him fire. What starts as manipulation and vengeance slowly blurs into something far more dangerous—desire, obsession, and a connection neither of them can control. And as the lines between enemy and lover dissolve, August realizes too late that loving her might be the one thing that truly ruins him.
I really liked this from the start. The middle got so good—I couldn’t put it down and was literally thinking about it all day when I wasn’t reading.
And then… it just dropped. Like a full dive. And I suddenly didn’t like it at all, which honestly sucks.
The dynamic between August and Meghan completely flipped, and not in a good way. Meghan spent the first half of the book so strong—she was obviously in love with him, but she never let him walk all over her. Their banter was amazing. She gave it right back, and August was constantly trying to get a rise out of her—it was fun, sharp, and honestly addictive to read.
Yes, he could be cruel, but Meghan always stood her ground.
But the second she tells him she loves him—after he’s especially cruel—it’s like she completely folds. She loses that spark that made her so good, and I kept waiting for her to push back again… and she just didn’t.
And August?? Completely different person. This man who was such a confident, almost ruthless lothario suddenly turns into this needy, insecure guy who needs Meghan. It was night and day, and not in a satisfying “growth” way—just… jarring.
And Meghan’s shift made it worse. She suddenly felt so timid and almost childlike at times that when the love scene happened, I was like… I’m uncomfortable?? She’s a child! This doesn’t feel right. Especially with her pulling away, cowering at things he said—it completely changed the tone of their relationship.
I actually stopped at 82% because it felt like I was reading a completely different book. Once they got on the boat, everything shifted—and not in a way that worked.
Also… the timing of that scene?? She’s literally seasick and throwing up every 10 minutes and that’s when we’re doing this?? I couldn’t get past it. If I’m sick like that, don’t even look at me, let alone touch me.
I love Christi’s work—this is like my 25th book of hers—and that’s why this was so disappointing. Because I did love parts of it. I just didn’t love where it went.
——-
[ my summary]
The McQuoid empire was built on the sea, and now rival shipping dynasties are circling, ready to tear everything down. Alliances are fragile, daughters are bargaining chips, and love is never just love—it’s leverage.
August Archdale, Earl of Culross, has fully embraced his reputation as a villain. Ruthless, calculated, and feared, he will do whatever it takes to protect his power—even if that means destroying Meghan Smith’s future by stopping her wedding. To him, it’s strategy. Necessary. Inevitable.
But Meghan doesn’t break the way he expects. Where he demands control, she pushes back. Where he expects fear, she gives him fire. What starts as manipulation and vengeance slowly blurs into something far more dangerous—desire, obsession, and a connection neither of them can control. And as the lines between enemy and lover dissolve, August realizes too late that loving her might be the one thing that truly ruins him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2026
August Archdale, Earl of Culross, is a brooding, battle-scarred, rake that is carrying enough emotional baggage to require its own footman. He’s out for revenge, short on patience, & absolutely not prepared for the woman who derails his plans with a single look.
Miss Meghan McQuoid-Smith is a shipping heiress with a spine of steel & a heart that refuses to be intimidated. She’s been in love with August forever, which makes being kidnapped by him on the way to her wedding… awkwardly convenient.
August thinks stopping Meghan’s wedding is a tactical move in his revenge campaign. Meghan thinks fate has finally delivered the man she’s wanted for years. What follows is a delicious tangle of forced proximity, sharp banter, emotional bruises, & chemistry that could set the drapes on fire. There’s angst, action, longing, & just enough chaos to keep the pages flipping. Meghan is bold in letting her views be known, & August’s “I’m a villain, don’t love me” routine doesn’t stand a chance.
A spicy, riveting, emotionally rich romance that checks every single box I crave in historical romance. Once again, Christi Caldwell proves she’s the reigning queen of heart‑punching, swoon‑heavy, character‑driven romance. She writes with such depth, warmth, & emotional precision that even her villains end up stealing your heart. This book had everything I look for, & then some. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Miss Meghan McQuoid-Smith is a shipping heiress with a spine of steel & a heart that refuses to be intimidated. She’s been in love with August forever, which makes being kidnapped by him on the way to her wedding… awkwardly convenient.
August thinks stopping Meghan’s wedding is a tactical move in his revenge campaign. Meghan thinks fate has finally delivered the man she’s wanted for years. What follows is a delicious tangle of forced proximity, sharp banter, emotional bruises, & chemistry that could set the drapes on fire. There’s angst, action, longing, & just enough chaos to keep the pages flipping. Meghan is bold in letting her views be known, & August’s “I’m a villain, don’t love me” routine doesn’t stand a chance.
A spicy, riveting, emotionally rich romance that checks every single box I crave in historical romance. Once again, Christi Caldwell proves she’s the reigning queen of heart‑punching, swoon‑heavy, character‑driven romance. She writes with such depth, warmth, & emotional precision that even her villains end up stealing your heart. This book had everything I look for, & then some. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 15, 2026
A nonstop good read
“The Villain” by Christi Caldwell hooked me from the first page. And by the final page, I was crying. Together, these facts are a mark of an excellent story that easily earns 5 stars from me.
I have found that Caldwell always writes characters with depth. (I’ve also discovered that new-to-me authors that don’t capture me seem to fall short with their characters.)
Meghan and Culross have a history. They first met in Caldwell’s book “The Captain.” I have not read that first title, however, and did not feel lost while reading “The Villain.” Their shared history lets us jump right into the action.
Culross knows he is a villain as he plots his revenge on those who he believes wronged him in “The Captain.” I enjoyed seeing how Caldwell’s talented plotting managed to turn him around to a hero.
Meghan, meanwhile, would argue that Culross was never a villain. Love will do that to a woman! But there are small moments woven throughout that show us that Meghan truly does see the true Culross, not just a fanciful hero she has built up in her own mind.
(Side note: there was at least one side character that truly was a villain… and I don’t care to see that person redeemed later. If anyone can do it, however, it would be Caldwell.)
“The Villian” will appeal to readers who enjoy historical romances in which the women rise above the expectations of society at the time to show their strength and intelligence. And their strength uplifts their chosen heroes.
“The Villain” by Christi Caldwell hooked me from the first page. And by the final page, I was crying. Together, these facts are a mark of an excellent story that easily earns 5 stars from me.
I have found that Caldwell always writes characters with depth. (I’ve also discovered that new-to-me authors that don’t capture me seem to fall short with their characters.)
Meghan and Culross have a history. They first met in Caldwell’s book “The Captain.” I have not read that first title, however, and did not feel lost while reading “The Villain.” Their shared history lets us jump right into the action.
Culross knows he is a villain as he plots his revenge on those who he believes wronged him in “The Captain.” I enjoyed seeing how Caldwell’s talented plotting managed to turn him around to a hero.
Meghan, meanwhile, would argue that Culross was never a villain. Love will do that to a woman! But there are small moments woven throughout that show us that Meghan truly does see the true Culross, not just a fanciful hero she has built up in her own mind.
(Side note: there was at least one side character that truly was a villain… and I don’t care to see that person redeemed later. If anyone can do it, however, it would be Caldwell.)
“The Villian” will appeal to readers who enjoy historical romances in which the women rise above the expectations of society at the time to show their strength and intelligence. And their strength uplifts their chosen heroes.
March 15, 2026
Christi Caldwell’s latest book the Villain, is a story of love & redemption, filled as always with wonderful characters. Having been thrown over for his rival August, Earl of Culross is out for revenge against the McQuoid family. Meghan, fell in love with August as he courted her sister and when he was ultimately cast aside for another man, she lost him & his friendship. Now betrothed to the Duke of Hartwell to further her family’s shipping empire, Meghan persuades her friends to attend a masquerade ball in the hope of declaring her love to August. Unfortunately for her, he is not interested and she is caught by her future husband, whose true colors are revealed.
August seeing an opportunity he kidnaps Meghan on the way to her wedding, initially to ruin her and her sisters. While hiding in a inn, August comes to the stark realization that it was always Meghan and not her sister that he was attracted to. Once they realize they love each other their plans are thwarted by her brothers. Ultimately they are reunited and get their HEA. This was a fast paced easy read which I thoroughly enjoyed. You start out believing one man is the villain only to find it might be another.
I highly recommend this book.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions and review.
August seeing an opportunity he kidnaps Meghan on the way to her wedding, initially to ruin her and her sisters. While hiding in a inn, August comes to the stark realization that it was always Meghan and not her sister that he was attracted to. Once they realize they love each other their plans are thwarted by her brothers. Ultimately they are reunited and get their HEA. This was a fast paced easy read which I thoroughly enjoyed. You start out believing one man is the villain only to find it might be another.
I highly recommend this book.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions and review.
April 14, 2026
There were a lot of things I did enjoy about the Villain. I liked August's character growth away from the back and forth vindictiveness and revenge between the McQuoids, the Tremaines, and now the Culross families. It was nice to see him finally leave that behind. My heart went out to Meghan that yet again the McQuoid men weren't listening and making life decisions for her regardless of what she wanted. I was happy to see she finally got who she chose in the end, August Culross.
My satisfaction in the series continues to be darkened by the McQuoid males though. Meghan's brothers came off as complete idiots for nearly pounding August to a fare the well. Or there may have been a couple of McQuoid cousins in the mix too? It's hard to keep track of them all. They all infuriate me because they stubbornly refuse to listen. Only the younger McQuoid males like Oleander seem to have any sense. It's not that I mind masculine take-charge male characters, quite the opposite. I just get incredibly frustrated when they're repeatedly dense and insensitive. I really hope future books will include a reckoning for the McQuoid males, it is much needed.
My satisfaction in the series continues to be darkened by the McQuoid males though. Meghan's brothers came off as complete idiots for nearly pounding August to a fare the well. Or there may have been a couple of McQuoid cousins in the mix too? It's hard to keep track of them all. They all infuriate me because they stubbornly refuse to listen. Only the younger McQuoid males like Oleander seem to have any sense. It's not that I mind masculine take-charge male characters, quite the opposite. I just get incredibly frustrated when they're repeatedly dense and insensitive. I really hope future books will include a reckoning for the McQuoid males, it is much needed.
March 18, 2026
Well written, full of drama, society, adventure, secrets, scandal, danger, emotions, intrigue, action, suspense, twists, revenge, love, family, fear, steam and a kidnapping. August , Earl of Culross, is now aware that he has to stop a wedding to save his business and a little side order of revenge. He thinks that stopping this marriage , he will be getting the revenge he wants. Only Meghan is happy that it is saving her from a marriage she doesn't want. She has been secretly in love with August for years. Meghan is happy to be with him only to find out his plans for the revenge. The tug between them has some pain and a new beginning for them both. Both have issues to work thru before being able to solve their problems. Secrets that they have kept will need to be shared. The storyline is good and the characters are all multidimensional with each having their own struggles before a happily ever after can happen. Would recommend to others.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
March 14, 2026
The Villain is an absolute gem and a thrilling start to an intriguing new series! From the very first page, I was swept into a world of adventure and romance that had me turning the pages late into the night. Pirates ahoy! Christi Caldwell delivers a tale full of daring escapades and high-seas excitement that feels both fresh and timeless.
The characters are a delightful wonder—vivid, layered, and impossible not to love. Each brings their own spark to the story, making the emotional stakes as engaging as the swashbuckling action. The plot is fast-paced and keeps you hooked, with plenty of surprises and an unexpected twist to the romance that will make your heart race.
If you’re looking for a captivating mix of adventure, romance, and unforgettable characters, The Villain is the perfect escape. I can’t wait to see where this series sails next!
The characters are a delightful wonder—vivid, layered, and impossible not to love. Each brings their own spark to the story, making the emotional stakes as engaging as the swashbuckling action. The plot is fast-paced and keeps you hooked, with plenty of surprises and an unexpected twist to the romance that will make your heart race.
If you’re looking for a captivating mix of adventure, romance, and unforgettable characters, The Villain is the perfect escape. I can’t wait to see where this series sails next!
April 1, 2026
Christi Caldwell is one incredible author, whose characters never fail to draw you into their lives, and cause you to care, and to search for some redeeming qualities in even the most evil reprobate. There are always many layers to be peeled back. August, the Earl of Culross, is one such character that Meghan McQuoid, falls in love with, even as he courts her sister. She sees another side to him, though their families are shipping rivals, and despise one another. He sees her as an opportunity for a shipping alliance, so much so that he determines to stop her marriage to another, even if that includes a kidnapping. This story has all the feels of a sizzling romance amongst intrigue, suspense, betrayal and brutality. It will keep you turning pages well into the night! Well done!
March 15, 2026
Good emotional read
If I am being honest, I didn't like August Archdale, Earl of Culross very much for the beginning of the book. He was blind of his love for Meghan and treated her wretchedly. Then he opened his eyes and transformed.
Megan's family marries for love, but since she
can't have the one she loves, she settles for one picked by her family. She is headstrong, but also a softy. Lucky for her, her love shows up just in time, but is it for love or revenge.
This book flows at a good pace and is easily read in one sitting or two. I look forward to more books in this series.
If I am being honest, I didn't like August Archdale, Earl of Culross very much for the beginning of the book. He was blind of his love for Meghan and treated her wretchedly. Then he opened his eyes and transformed.
Megan's family marries for love, but since she
can't have the one she loves, she settles for one picked by her family. She is headstrong, but also a softy. Lucky for her, her love shows up just in time, but is it for love or revenge.
This book flows at a good pace and is easily read in one sitting or two. I look forward to more books in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
August Archdale, Earl of Culross, thinks only of revenge against the Mcquoid-Smith family. His golden opportunity comes with a plan to kidnap Meghan Smith on the way to her wedding. Meghan isn't disappointed in missing her wedding, she's loved August for a long time. But he is not the same man she knew before he and her family became enemies. That doesn't stop her from loving him, even if he doesn't return her feelings. Angst, pain, violence and a long way to find an HEA.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by the author.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by the author.
March 14, 2026
August Archdale, Earl of Culross is out for revenge against the McQuoid-Smith family after a failed wedding with one of the sisters, Linnie.
Her sister Meghan is marrying a Duke. She is not happy and doesn't love him but knows it will align the families.
August comes up with a plan to kidnap her on the way to her wedding, cause a scandal, and ruin her.
This story is so full of angst, steamy scenes, scandal, and wonderful chemistry between Meghan and August as they find their way to their HEA.
This is a fantastic read!
Her sister Meghan is marrying a Duke. She is not happy and doesn't love him but knows it will align the families.
August comes up with a plan to kidnap her on the way to her wedding, cause a scandal, and ruin her.
This story is so full of angst, steamy scenes, scandal, and wonderful chemistry between Meghan and August as they find their way to their HEA.
This is a fantastic read!
March 18, 2026
While this is a solid entry to this series, I felt that it was lacking some of the depth that the previous entry had. We mainly focused on our two main characters and missed out on a lot of the fantastic family dynamics that got me interested in the McQuoids in the first place. The ending glossed over the partnership troubles that have been plaguing all the involved parties and I didn’t feel satisfied with the resolution.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 14, 2026
This is a very easy story to read – it flew through it. Since I didn’t read the previous story, I felt like I was dropped in but I could totally understand what was going on, it was just that I didn’t know everything that happened in the previous book. Did that diminish my enjoyment of this story, definitely did not. I do love a good redemption story and August seemed like a villain who could definitely be redeemed and he was redeemed. Man do the mighty fall hard.
April 14, 2026
First let me say this can be read as a standalone however my personal recommendation would be to read the first book as well. I didn't originally read them in order, so I went back and redid it. The impact was much more powerful as it gives the reader more insight into this family. The characters have realism, depth and distinct characteristics. Each plot pulled the reader into the emotions and drama bringing forth lots of emotions.
March 30, 2026
Hot And Steamy!!!
I love Christi's books!!! Meghan and August....true definition of pining on her part and blind to one's feelings on his part. The coming together on his end was a bit abrupt for me...but it is a shorter book, as was the ending. But the saga must continue....let's see whose story comes next
I love Christi's books!!! Meghan and August....true definition of pining on her part and blind to one's feelings on his part. The coming together on his end was a bit abrupt for me...but it is a shorter book, as was the ending. But the saga must continue....let's see whose story comes next
March 15, 2026
I Only Want You
August yelled from the pavement “I’ve come for you Meghan!
Power, passion, betrayal and vengeance was wasted, because all he wanted was Meghan. A enemy to lovers had great characters, chemistry and power of family love.
August yelled from the pavement “I’ve come for you Meghan!
Power, passion, betrayal and vengeance was wasted, because all he wanted was Meghan. A enemy to lovers had great characters, chemistry and power of family love.
March 21, 2026
Throughly enjoyed reading August and Megan's story of two families with rival shipping empires and their feud. Can they fate of two people destined to be together finally put an end to a feud that has gone on for far too long.
March 28, 2026
Too short
I liked the dialogue and
Lot but the ending came rather abruptly . there was a lack of depth and the story was not developed enough...I probably won't order another book as I'm thinking the next one will be predictable
I liked the dialogue and
Lot but the ending came rather abruptly . there was a lack of depth and the story was not developed enough...I probably won't order another book as I'm thinking the next one will be predictable
March 28, 2026
Christi has done it again with a terrific installment in the ongoing drama of the McQuoid family.
I really really wanted to hate August like the McQuoids do but I just couldn’t do it - he must have some redeeming values for Meghan to love him, right?
And, boy, does he!
I really really wanted to hate August like the McQuoids do but I just couldn’t do it - he must have some redeeming values for Meghan to love him, right?
And, boy, does he!
March 14, 2026
A romance filled with angst, tension, power and desire. August and Meghan build a connection that surpasses vengeance and scandal. I enjoyed their story and happy ending.
March 14, 2026
Caldwell did it again
Absolutely clever, intriguing and totally unexpected. Dis is a must read for Regency romance readers! Christi Caldwell delivers yet again.
Absolutely clever, intriguing and totally unexpected. Dis is a must read for Regency romance readers! Christi Caldwell delivers yet again.
April 1, 2026
A nice, sexy read
Why does it always seem sweeter when the hero is someone who needs a little redemption? That’s what you’ll find in The Villain. I really enjoyed it.
Why does it always seem sweeter when the hero is someone who needs a little redemption? That’s what you’ll find in The Villain. I really enjoyed it.
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