1239. Seduced By a Stranger (Eve Silver)

Synopsis:

The vast, dense forest and murky lake that surround Cairncroft Abbey aren't the only menacing elements that envelop the estate. For a dark history lies behind its walls - where secrets and evil still linger...Catherine Weston arrives at Cairncroft Abbey to visit her childhood friend Madeline St. Aubyn whose health seems to deteriorate with each passing day. Even stranger, Madeline appears to grow more nervous whenever she is in the presence of her cousin, Gabriel. But Gabriel has quite a different effect on Catherine - stirring a longing deep within her...Gabriel St. Aubyn is haunted by the curse that has plagued his family for decades. Living with the constant torment that he too will succumb to it one day, he has resigned himself to a solitary existence. Yet when he meets Catherine, he cannot resist her company - or his growing desire for her. But when a young woman is found dead, Catherine cannot ignore the link between this horrific crime and Gabriel. Is he the tender, charismatic man she loves - or a sinister stranger waiting to make her his next victim?

My rating: 3 stars

My review: A great gothic read. My only problem was that the attraction between Catherine and Gabriel seems too sudden. I think that this book would have been better with minimal romance between the two main characters and more mystery and gothic tones.

1166. Dark Desires (Eve Silver)

Synopsis:
On the streets of Whitechapel, a man steps from the fog-shrouded shadows, looking for company. The women are always happy to take his coin - just before they take his knife...Darcie Finch has come to the East London brothel as a last, desperate choice. Instead, the madam turns Darcie out into the harsh night with new hope - to seek employment from one who owes her a favour, Dr. Damien Cole - as well as a last warning: have a care. Steer clear of his work and his secrets. He is a man to fear...The Cole residence is a strange place, indeed. Servants disappear. Unsavoury characters call at odd hours of the night. And Darcie has seen the handsome doctor leave his laboratory splattered with blood. Now, Damien has offered her the chance of a lifetime, using her skills as an artist to work beside him. Long hours together soon ignite an unexpected - and irresistible - passion. But the closer Darcie gets to Damien and his secrets, the more she wonders if he is a dedicated, charming healer...or a cold-blooded killer...

My rating: 4 stars