Publication Date: November 4, 2025
Can a star-crossed pair overcome a simmering family feud for a chance at love, in this stunning Regency romance from New York Times bestselling author Madeleine Roux?
Violet Arden is a burgeoning painter who insists on a life of passion, but scandal is heaped on humiliation at her artistic debut in London. It would be one thing to withstand withering critiques, but the night goes from bad to worse when an illicit affair with her art instructor is exposed. She flees the London limelight to her cousin Emilia Graddock’s country estate, where she plans to leave all thoughts of love in the past where they belong . . . until she comes face-to-face with the man who scorned her paintings in front of her friends and family, Alasdair Kerr.
Alasdair has recently set aside his life of travel to return to his family’s estate— the site of a tragic fire that claimed his cherished father’s life. He’s finally ready to rebuild the home that was lost and step into his role as man of the house. But his rakish younger brother Freddie can’t seem to leave the off-limits Graddock woman alone, and his mother has brought an overbearing clergyman into their home who appears keen to stick around.
Violet is determined to ignore Alasdair, which shouldn’t be difficult considering that their families have been in a long-standing feud . . . if only their attempts to end Emilia and Freddie’s secret relationship would stop bringing them together. And when new fires threaten their safety, Violet and Alasdair reluctantly join forces to uncover the identity of the arsonist. But can they ignore the feelings kindling between them, which are but an ember away from igniting into a full blaze?
These Violet Delights by Madeleine Roux is a historical Regency romance. Set in London in the early 1800s, and a small town in the English countryside, there are secrets, the arts, longstanding feuds, and a childhood friendship or two to be revived.
Violet and Alasdair are the main protagonists, and we follow their journey from friends to enemies to lovers, as we are taken on a merry ride.
Several storylines are revealed, and they are woven together in unforeseen ways. There are layers to the story and many of the characters. There are often miscommunications, and many people have to learn to stand up for themselves. Â As the revelations were revealed, it was one surprise after another, along with the possibility of a few red herrings. The story has a good flow with a few detours.
There are many details, and hopes and dreams are brought to fruition. There were vivid descriptions of the homes, the art, the grounds, and the weather. The story has closure and a happily ever after or two in the offing.
These Violet Delights is a somber tale at times and playful at others, but the main characters definitely have heart.
Madeleine Roux is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Asylum series, which has sold over a million copies worldwide. She is also the author of the House of Furies series and several titles for adults, including Salvaged and Reclaimed. She has made contributions to Star Wars, World of Warcraft, and Dungeons & Dragons. Madeleine lives in Seattle, Washington, with her partner and beloved pups.
