The Velvet Basement Series by Elsa Holland

AN INNOCENT WOMAN DETERMINED TO WIN THE DANGEROUS MAN SHE WANTS. In her grimy, coal stained world, Olive Thompson knows one thing for certain - Mr. Edwards is the one she wants. When she’s with him, every part of her feels alive, as if a stream under her skin ripples with passion. When he looks at her, a forbidden world glows in that gaze. She wants what he threatens, what he promises…no matter the price. A WICKED MAN DESPERATE TO SAVE AN ANGEL FROM HIS PROFANE DESIRES... moreAN INNOCENT WOMAN DETERMINED TO WIN THE DANGEROUS MAN SHE WANTS. In her grimy, coal stained world, Olive Thompson knows one thing for certain - Mr. Edwards is the one she wants. When she’s with him, every part of her feels alive, as if a stream under her skin ripples with passion. When he looks at her, a forbidden world glows in that gaze. She wants what he threatens, what he promises…no matter the price. A WICKED MAN DESPERATE TO SAVE AN ANGEL FROM HIS PROFANE DESIRES. Intuitively a man knows when a woman can unravel him, regardless of what he tells himself. James Edwards, master of the sensual and elite art of shibari rope, has always kept Olive Thompson at a distance. For two years, he’s endured constant vigilance, denial, and endless hunger … until today. Today he will steal a taste, something to remember after he walks away forever. Because who he is and what he wants are not for someone so pure. She thinks she wants him… she has no idea. AFTER THE DARKEST NIGHT, THE SUN ALWAYS RISES - WHETHER YOU’RE READY FOR THE LIGHT OR NOT. less

They were selling her. It didn't make any sense. She, Miss Elspeth James, was the governess. She prepared the girls to be selected as Painted Sisters she didn't become one. And what made it all the worse was that it was to him, that arrogant, cold and infuriating Mr Blackburn. She would have walkout out, left the Hurley twins, her beloved charges and the ridiculous proposal if it wasn't for one thing. The girls were in danger. Serious danger... moreThey were selling her. It didn't make any sense. She, Miss Elspeth James, was the governess. She prepared the girls to be selected as Painted Sisters she didn't become one. And what made it all the worse was that it was to him, that arrogant, cold and infuriating Mr Blackburn. She would have walkout out, left the Hurley twins, her beloved charges and the ridiculous proposal if it wasn't for one thing. The girls were in danger. Serious danger. There were whispers of secret bidding, astronomical prices for the beautiful tattooed skin minus the girl. One of the girls was being harassed by the Hurley’s nephew. The Hurleys were too old and far too eccentric to see the threat. If she accepted the deal, had her body tattooed and became Mr Blackburn’s living art, his Painted Sister, she would become a very wealthy woman. Wealthy enough to do something to protect the girls. The Painted Heart is a dark Victorian Romance with a rickly sensual, gothic feel. less