Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
As Alexandra tries to conform to her new life, she soon discovers that betrayal lies inside the castle walls. When noblewomen plot against her, Alexandra ends up on the receiving end of Branford’s rage. Earning the trust of her wary husband will be no easy task for the young handmaid.

Branford may know his way around their bedchamber, but he’s finding himself ill-prepared to handle the duties of both prince and husband. His missteps bring down the wrath of the queen, and he will have to do everything in his power to atone for his transgressions. Branford must find a way to open his heart to his new wife if either of them has a chance of overcoming the treachery ahead.

ebook

First published June 14, 2016

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Shay Savage

45 books3,744 followers
Shay Savage is an independent author from Cincinnati, Ohio, where she lives with her family and a variety of household pets. She is an accomplished public speaker and holds the rank of Distinguished Toastmaster from Toastmasters International. Her hobbies include off-roading in her big, yellow Jeep, science fiction in all forms, and soccer. Savage holds a degree in psychology, and she brings a lot of that knowledge into the characters within her stories.

From the author: “It’s my job to make you FEEL. That doesn’t always mean you’ll feel good, but I want my readers to be connected enough to my characters to care.”

Savage’s books many books span a wide variety of topics and sub-genres with deeply flawed characters. From cavemen to addicts to hitmen, you’ll find yourself falling for these seemingly irredeemable characters!

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
180 (26%)
4 stars
254 (37%)
3 stars
170 (24%)
2 stars
53 (7%)
1 star
24 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
Profile Image for ✰ Liz ✰ .
1,366 reviews1,321 followers
June 25, 2016
"I won't hurt you. I swear I will make it perfect for you."
description

The Seduction is the second book in the Unexpected Circumstances Series and believe me when I say....I am HOOKED!!!! Lady Alexandra has been thrown into a world of royalty and with the fiercely passionate and powerful Sir Branford, the twists and turns in this read will leave you breathless!
description
As Sir Branford and Lady Alexandra begin to settle in their new life together at the castle, not everyone is supportive of their success. Alexandra is still battling her feelings of awkwardness with her new station. She is unsure about how to behave, and although she is beginning to feel safe in her husband's arms, even he cannot protect her from the hatefulness of others. Thankfully, the Queen and Ida, Sir Branford's Sister, are supportive and willing to offer her everything she needs to find her way.

description
"I feel .... safe here... in your arms."
Sir Branford is patient and loving to his new bride. Although he wants so badly to do right by her, he doesn't always know exactly how to do it. Additionally, he still has a Kingdom to serve and enemies to cut down. As the plot continues to unfold, it becomes evident that Alexandra is exactly what Branford needs to find peace and happiness. However, can he do what it takes to win her trust and her love?
description
Overall, The Seduction was another stunning addition to this series. I feel like I am being swept away to a magical place. The complexity between the characters continues to captivate me. I am thoroughly invested in this tale and every moment in this world is laced with romance, passion, and intrigue. Ms. Savage has done it again!!!! Off to Book 3!!!!!

***Unexpected Circumstances Series***
The Handmaid (Unexpected Circumstances, #1) by Shay SavageThe Seduction (Unexpected Circumstances, #2) by Shay SavageThe Consummation (Unexpected Circumstances, #3) by Shay SavageThe Shortcoming (Unexpected Circumstances, #4) by Shay Savage

*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!*

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

description
description
Profile Image for Rain.
1,919 reviews28 followers
December 16, 2022
Still enjoying this sweet series (must be read in order), but it’s a little too sweet? It could be completely my fault because I’m so used to overabundant smut from my books. (It’s 20%, why aren’t they having sex yet?!) Reading this series is like a little smutty brain re-set.
Profile Image for Jennifer Kyle.
2,471 reviews5,311 followers
June 26, 2016
4 Stars

description

In book two of this series, Alexandra struggles to find her place as she has quickly gone from a servant to nobility. Our couple adds another layer of trust between them as they share parts of themselves through reveals from their pasts.

Branford’s seduction of his wife as he leads this inexperience woman to consummating their marriage is extremely well paced and very hot.

description

"I feel .... safe here... in your arms."

The next installment is set to release on June 28th and I’m hoping expecting that Branford and Alexandra will finally seal the deal. I’m sure we have not heard the last of King from Hadebrand’s disappointment about this marriage.

"I do have enemies… and sometimes they know exactly where to strike me."

[image error]

The Handmaid (Unexpected Circumstances, #1) by Shay Savage The Seduction (Unexpected Circumstances, #2) by Shay Savage The Consummation (Unexpected Circumstances, #3) by Shay Savage The Shortcoming (Unexpected Circumstances, #4) by Shay Savage

Profile Image for Claire.
2,316 reviews725 followers
June 8, 2016
4.5 - "You have some teeth, woman." Stars!

Shay Savage hits the ground running with the second book in the Unexpected Circumstances series in that The Seduction picks up immediately after The Handmaid Left off.



Sir Brandford and Alexandra are still circling each other somewhat at the beginning of this installment, Brandford is desperate to get to know his new wife better, but Alexandra is still struggling to come to terms with the massive change in her circumstances.

"I find you so difficult to read, and you’re not very forthcoming with information…"

But after trusting the wrong people leads Alexandra to unwittingly embarrass him again in front of the court and his peers, Alexandra fears she will be cast aside, when Brandford’s rage at her error reaches new heights.

"You are going to remain my wife and I will remain your husband. No one can change that."

I really fell into this part of their story, Shay is building the sexual tension between them something chronic, pretty much to the point I am as frustrated as they are. But I love that this isn’t being rushed between them, due to Alexandra’s elevation in station and innocence in all things sexy I don’t think it would have worked as well if it had been swiftly resolved in that area between her and Brandford.



The players are still very much being introduced, and their roles in the overall story as yet to be fully divulged, but one thing is for sure, I am really looking forwards to seeing where the author takes this series and the couple it is written around, the anticipation for each new installment is extremely high for me, especially as this point I still don’t have any idea where the story is going to go.

"I do have enemies… and sometimes they know exactly where to strike me."

I cannot wait for part three; The Consummation the end of June feels like a long, long way away right now!



ARC generously provided by the author, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Profile Image for Karen.
185 reviews82 followers
August 30, 2016
The Seduction is book 2 of Shay Savage's Unexpected Circumstances Series.

This book picks up where book one left off. Alexandra is still learning how to become a wife to Branford but there are many unknown obstacles in her way. Unfortunately there are a few revengeful and bitter women in her midst who are trying to cause havoc between her and Branford. The Queen will have none of the nastiness and orders Branford to spend three full days with Alexandra in order for the two to get to know each other.

As the title suggests, Branford is all about seducing Alexandra and things begin to heat up between the two.
 photo tumblr_n58tm2SaOo1rlb6iho1_400_zpsxt7nc1sy.gif

"His dark eyes gazed at me, and I could feel my will slowly seep into them. “I want to show you pleasure,” he whispered.  “I want to see desire in your eyes when you look upon me.  I want to know you, Alexandra, and I want you to know me.” My heart began to beat harder, which reminded me of the feeling of his hand as it danced over the sensitive flesh of my breast.  I remembered the feeling that ensued so far away from his exploring fingers and how he seemed to know exactly what I felt."

Branford takes his time and is so gentle with Alexandra that it's very easy to forget the man does have a temper at times. This book is definitely a page turner however we have to wait for book 3 for the consummation. I can't wait to see what happens next!!!!



Profile Image for Lelyana's Reviews.
3,292 reviews388 followers
October 19, 2017
*Review updated*

Thank you for all reviewers who safe my life, I'm done with this series.
I never liked the hero anyways...so, as Lissa said, run away.. I am running away :)


Even this guy redeeming himself at cheating area, which finally he explained to Alexandra that he didn't cheat on her, he still need an anger management. ASAP.
I wouldn't change my review from book one, because, he implied that he's cheated on her. No explanation whatsoever.
As for his short temper? Seriously?
Not a historical hero I'm expected to be. No, I can't like this Brandford guy except when he asked Alexandra for forgiveness.
The heroine is still spineless, and I was tired of "Yes my....Brandford". *eye rolling*
I don't know if I'm going to continue with this series. Maybe, maybe not.
Profile Image for Elle aka Leftie aka Shoebelle.
657 reviews123 followers
June 16, 2016
*ARC received from author as part of blog tour*

While I wasn’t completely wowed by the 1st bk, it hooked me in. This picks up right where bk 1 ended. The pivotal event in this book is one that highlights Alexandra’s shortcomings and Branford’s failings. And out of that came the need to really get to know each other in order to move forward.

Poor Alexandra, I can’t even get frustrated with her and her thoughts. She only knew one kind of life before her marriage and her thoughts and actions are the product of her status in her previous life. It really was up to Branford to take rein if they want to head in the right direction.

I love how insightful Branford is, and his genuine effort to “handle” Alexandra well. While coming from nobility, he’s not unscathed from tragedy. He hides his scars really well but that impacts his actions.

And now we’re left with these 2, seeming to have found a happy compromise that will hopefully carry them thru…
Now, that's how you leave an unfinished ending, on a high note that is... *winks* Niiice!!!
Profile Image for Amanda.
1,388 reviews328 followers
June 9, 2016
In this second installment of Unexpected Circumstances, Alexandra is still the naive, blushing virgin that I grew to root for. But seriously, this woman need to grow some teeth. That is only so long I can stand her blushing, innocence and submission. I hope I can see some transformation in her personality soon.

This time around, there is a vindictive bitch out there trying to sabotage Alexandra's status by shaming her in public. I can see the ploy a mile away, but thank goodness it was resolve quite fast and Branford didn't turn into a hot temper ass for too long. We also get a healthy dose into the insight of Branford's childhood life and his parent demise.

As per the title of this book, I'm enjoying Branford's seduction skill a tad too much. There is something about these historical romance and blushing virgin that make me turned all gooey and tingly everywhere. I can't stand all these foreplay much longer, can't wait to start on the next one.
Profile Image for ✿kawehi.reviews.
1,453 reviews421 followers
July 7, 2016
☆ I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆

Yet again, I was on pins and needles with pent up sexual tension between Branford and Alexandra. I was like, "just do it!!"~~ while also reveling in the fact that they are taking things slow and meaningfully forging a bond that is more than just a marriage of convenience and strategic ploy. It made their relationship realistic and believable seeing Alexandra struggle with adjusting to court life and what her place with Branford... And Branford, witnessing him come undone with the harsh realities that Alexandra endured compared to his privileged life and falling more in entranced with her innocence and beauty and exposing her to his own jaded past was wonderful. I enjoy that he has flaws and is far from perfect but at least he's trying.

Can't wait for bk3!!

Kawehi
Profile Image for JewelsyGoolsy.
580 reviews101 followers
June 15, 2016
3.5 stars
It's getting better but there's STILL no nookie!! Heavy petting but no nookie yet *sniff*. Oh the slow burn!

Picks up straight after book #1 The Handmaid and still told in solely h's POV which is refreshing but also has a very different feel and pacing to the author's previous and predominantly male POV stories. It's something I'm enjoying, but still getting used to.

Bring on book #3 and nookie please!!
Profile Image for Mg ♥ The Bookishmedialite.
1,198 reviews320 followers
June 16, 2016
5 "I WANT TO SIT ON SIR BRANFORD'S LAP" STARS.

OMG!!!! I'm dyinggggggggggggggg.
Shay Savage, WHY? WHY? Why are you doing this to me? You are killing me slowly with these books.
I need the next one right fucking NOW!!!!!!!

I am up for killing those bitches, My Branford. #JustSaying Lol.

Pouting till the 28. *Cries*.
Profile Image for Red Cheeks Reads.
2,210 reviews374 followers
June 14, 2016
I can’t even with this series, you guys! I just can’t! Because look at freaking awesome and amazing historical sexy as all get out cover. And this author is is doing pre-orders for $.99 for all of these books which is just insane because they aren’t especially short and they are amazing. This is the second book in this serial so you definitely need to read the first but man, I am hooked and Shay Savage needs to just release all of them now. I WANT! I WANT! I WANT!

“Let it happen…just let go…fell my touch on you…”

OK, So this one is The Seduction and boy is it seductive. Because this book is about Branford earning Alexandra’s trust especially in the bed chamber and goodness, it really is smoking hot. The sexual tension is through the roof in this book. Swoon!!

“That is what you desire from me.”

Just ridiculously hot! And let me tell you, I just love Branford. He is so quick to anger but sweet at the same time. His character just has me all hot and bothered. I am literally dying for this next book, The Consummation! I don’t think I have ever been so excited for consummating to happen! LOL

~Amie
Profile Image for Jessica Alcazar.
4,079 reviews571 followers
June 8, 2019
This is a ridiculously well done serial ...

I don't know what to tell you guys except this story has an incredible tension build-up that I don't think I've ever read before. I have absolutely no idea where this story is actually going and I absolutely LOVE IT! This feeling is quite odd ... Shay Savage is perfectly building a historical romance relationship while at the same time building a story outside of the MCs ... #brilliant

This second installment added yet another layer to the story that is both intriguing and exhilarating! I just can't wait for MORE MORE MORE!
Profile Image for London.
725 reviews
July 20, 2016
WARNING:
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,082 reviews884 followers
May 23, 2016
Part two of the Unexpected Circumstance Series, picks up just where book one left off. Alexandra continues to struggle to find her footing as the wife of Branford, going from serf to noble in a blink of an eye. Unable to fully voice her true thoughts or stand up for herself, she finds herself in yet another awkward position that sends Branford into a fury. But with a heavy hand, the queen orders them to spend some much needed time together, isolated, so that they can finally see each other and learn what it will means to be husband and wife. But before Branford can regain any trust, he has to open up about his past and show Alexandrea that he’s not going to punish her for being honest.

This second installment was a complete page-turner. I am loving watching Branford struggle to break through to her as he tries to figure out the reasons why she can’t be honest with her words. I love how while he tries to gain her trust, he is slowly being softened by her – it was so fun to read their exchange in the chambers, in the chair. Branford is not a gentle man, but the way he is having to curb his ire with Alexandra is making him quite endearing.

I can’t wait for the next installment of this series! It is addicting, well-written and this particular installment was a little more emotional than I anticipated.

ARC
Profile Image for Sophie.
49 reviews13 followers
May 31, 2016

What is it with author who end their books with cliffhanger but don't warn their readers about it ???

description

The book ended abruptly after about 93 pages, and the story will apparently have at least 3 parts. So THIS IS NOT EVEN THE END OF IT !!

I feel cheated every time that happens. Seriously ! What would it coast to warn your readers about it ? If the book was that good in itself, us reader wouldn't mind the cliffhanger or waiting for part 2 and 3, instead of feeling trapped and lied to...

description


And if it wasn't enough...


description
2,039 reviews24 followers
July 25, 2017
Moving on from book 1, Branford begins the seduction of his young wife.

he also provides an explanation to his background, his parents death and opening the door for the events that clearly unfold over this 7 part release.

I have no hesitation in saying that I love Shay Savage and the way she writes but I don't love the way this "book" has been marketed.

Again I have to comment on the way these Kindle version have been released: Each "book" is 131 pages and around £2.30 for each instalment of what is clearly a full book. Overall the price of reading this is £15.80 which will be out of reach of a lot of readers pockets and I think its over the top for a Kindle edition because at some point (depending how much you read) these books will need to be deleted to make way for other stories taking away the option to keep the book.

Again only reason I am reading this is because:-

No actual complete book available and I have a gift vouchers.
Profile Image for Ava.
1,028 reviews24 followers
July 21, 2016
This one was different from the first book, while I thought it was an introduction of the two, it wasn't, kept learning more about them.
And it wasn't just as I expected, I thought about people being mean but it wasn't those people I expected to be so.
Furthermore, their relationship turned into something else, something I didn't think about.
Anyway, it ended for me with a sigh and wanting to have book 5 and 6 and I'm nowhere near reading book 3 yet. Nah, starting now.
Profile Image for Shay Savage.
Author 45 books3,744 followers
August 3, 2016
“I want to touch you. I want to feel your skin in my hands—feel your warmth, your softness. I want to kiss your mouth, your neck, the hollow of your throat. I want to kiss your shoulder… I want to kiss your breasts, and suck them into my mouth while my hands discover your body. I want to make you feel like you never have before.”

Book two is waiting for you!
Profile Image for Maddy.
179 reviews70 followers
June 23, 2019
Totally was mortified for the h at one point - those evil noblewomen! The reaction by the "hero" was extreme, even with the grovelling apology what he did was inexcusable to me. The author needs to do something amazing for the so called hero to redeem himself in my eyes. But i do want to know what happens next. Sigh.
Profile Image for Lolina ⋆.
925 reviews51 followers
December 16, 2022
The H really tested my patience in this one-

Branford: refuses to hear Alexandra out and assumes the worst, almost getting violent

Alexandra: is now scared of him

Branford:

His anger really said it's my time to shine- the switch-up was honestly impressive.

I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first, mainly because of the H. I don't want to judge him too early, so I'm really hoping to see some growth and acknowledgment on his part.

I'm still looking forward to seeing how the romance develops, and am really enjoying the historical setting so far (I feel like the lack of smut is a test tho- I'm really going to manifest for the next book 💀☝️).
Profile Image for Carla.
989 reviews3 followers
June 6, 2016
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

Carla's Five Star review

The Seduction is the second book in the Unexpected Circumstances series. It is not a stand alone, so to avoid confusion, you need to read the first book in the series which is The Handmaid.

Alexandra is trying her best to adjust to her new role as Branford's wife, but it is not an easy task. When she falls victim to a scheme concocted by a couple of noblewomen, she once again finds herself on the receiving end of her husband's rage. Branford reacts impulsively and without thought assuming the worst of his wife. Of course, Queen Sunniva sees through the treachery at once and is infuriated by Branford's reaction. As a result, she demands that Branford and Alexandra be sequestered for three days, so they can get to know each other better. During this time, Branford shares some of the details of his past. Once she learns these details, will Alexandra be able to forgive him and move past the horrible way he treated her? Will Branford learn to completely trust his new wife?

If you would have told me three months ago that I would be completely wrapped up in a historical read, I would have thought you were crazy! I have never enjoyed the historical romance genre, and the fact that I love this series is a true testament to the amazing writer that Shay Savage is! The growth seen in both Branford and Alexandra is such a pleasure to read. I can't wait to read more of their story in The Consummation which is the third book in this amazing series!
Profile Image for Donna Jones.
333 reviews26 followers
June 20, 2016
OH i love Shay Savage and i have been waiting for part two for weeks and it certainly didn't disappoint. i think i might love Branford just a touch more after Suniva pushed them to get to know one another, he certainly stood up to the challenge. Alexandra is so realistic with her serf ways she wants to be attending him al the time it is truly beautiful watching her come into her own. Shay has a wonderful writing style and i love everything she writes x
Profile Image for Denise.
1,393 reviews40 followers
July 12, 2016
4.5 Stars

Loved the continuation of Alexandra and Branfords story. I tried to read it slow but the story just pulled me in. There is nice slow burn going between these two.

Impatiently waiting for book 3.
Profile Image for Amanda.
75 reviews30 followers
June 15, 2016
The second installment in the unexpected circumstances trilogy left me wanting MORE!



Why? Why do I do this to myself? I just want the next one right now ...

Damn you Shay Savage for pulling me in like that yet again!
Profile Image for Amie Knight.
104 reviews5 followers
June 6, 2016
Gah! I am loving this serial. The sexual tension!!!!! Review to come at Red Cheeks Reads.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.