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Rosalie Hughes knows that she has no alternative but to go to her step brothers home in London, since she has no other place to go. Her mother left her at a school years ago and Rosalie hasn't been able to reach her, and Declan is the only one she knows she can reach out to, not knowing the kind of reunion it will be. When they were younger Rosalie would get into all sorts of mischief and Declan was always there. Even now there is a part of her that loves him. Declan is not the same man that once climbed into trees with Rosalie and swam in the ponds. He has changed, and her mother is the reason. Only Declan knows the truth that changed him forever. Now he is the Duke of Branbury and he is a rake of the highest order. While coming home with a group of friends and ladies of the night, he comes across a figure in his sitting room...a young woman he hasn't seen in years. Even now he tries to block his feelings for her, but it seems that his heart is stronger than his will and he can't help but fall for this woman that held his heart years ago. Now he will need to make a choice, a choice that could imprison him or free him...
This story is the first book in the latest series by Sophie Jordan. Sophie Jordan is a personal favorite of mine and I always know that I will love her, and I adored this one. I just flew through this story because I just couldn't get enough of it, and when it sadly ended I was satisfied but thinking "its over already??" There is such sensuality to this story and oh boy enough to curl your toes with pure bliss!!! I LOVED it!!! The epitome of what I love in a solid regency romance. Not many authors can write like Jordan can and a SOLID A++++ to this author. What a winner of a story.
The story begins with Rosalie having no place to go, so Declan being a rogue and rake is rude and intolerant but can't kick her out, something holds him back. So he decides to bring his aunt and cousin to his bachelor home to act as chaperone's and introduce her into society so he can get her wedded and out of his hair. Rosalie is tired of orders and not having any joy or any say in her own life especially from Declan, who is so different from the boy she played with and followed around. So she decides to dress in disguise and go to a notorious night club "Sodom", where she can find a man who will kiss her with desire. The man she finds unexpectedly....Declan....a man she has dreamed about and when he kisses her with such passion she is lost.
I loved the relationship between these two....it definitely has its rocky hills and jagged cliffs in the relationship....but what a sunset there is at the end!! These two are a hoot and I adored both of them and they seemed just right for each other. They definitely know how to make fireworks pop and what a engaging story this was!! The chemistry between them is electric....sizzling, sweet, tender and powerful!! There are so many scenes that pull you in further in the story. From the first page you will be hooked...line and sinker. I couldn't put it down at all...I was having way too much fun with this one. It just makes me want to read the rest of this authors books that I have yet to read. This story was a treasure to read....with jewels of characters, a golden romance to enchant you.....and from beginning to end it will DAZZLE!!!
This story is the first book in the latest series by Sophie Jordan. Sophie Jordan is a personal favorite of mine and I always know that I will love her, and I adored this one. I just flew through this story because I just couldn't get enough of it, and when it sadly ended I was satisfied but thinking "its over already??" There is such sensuality to this story and oh boy enough to curl your toes with pure bliss!!! I LOVED it!!! The epitome of what I love in a solid regency romance. Not many authors can write like Jordan can and a SOLID A++++ to this author. What a winner of a story.
The story begins with Rosalie having no place to go, so Declan being a rogue and rake is rude and intolerant but can't kick her out, something holds him back. So he decides to bring his aunt and cousin to his bachelor home to act as chaperone's and introduce her into society so he can get her wedded and out of his hair. Rosalie is tired of orders and not having any joy or any say in her own life especially from Declan, who is so different from the boy she played with and followed around. So she decides to dress in disguise and go to a notorious night club "Sodom", where she can find a man who will kiss her with desire. The man she finds unexpectedly....Declan....a man she has dreamed about and when he kisses her with such passion she is lost.
I loved the relationship between these two....it definitely has its rocky hills and jagged cliffs in the relationship....but what a sunset there is at the end!! These two are a hoot and I adored both of them and they seemed just right for each other. They definitely know how to make fireworks pop and what a engaging story this was!! The chemistry between them is electric....sizzling, sweet, tender and powerful!! There are so many scenes that pull you in further in the story. From the first page you will be hooked...line and sinker. I couldn't put it down at all...I was having way too much fun with this one. It just makes me want to read the rest of this authors books that I have yet to read. This story was a treasure to read....with jewels of characters, a golden romance to enchant you.....and from beginning to end it will DAZZLE!!!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
A Good Day To Marry A Duke is a victorian era romance that involves a sassy American heroine looking to marry a Titled Englishman to secure future for her sisters and a Duke's brother whose mission is to prevent any relationship forming....war lines are formed of seduction and true love....
A Good Day To Marry A Duke is a sensational read that I just couldn't get enough of and once I started reading this book I was hooked. Now I will admit I was a bit nervous about this book, because I haven't read this author in YEARS and wasn't sure if her writing would change or be the same and would I still like it and I can say that YES it is superb and I love the depth of writing here and the research is so evident in this book and I wish more regency/victorian romances were written like this one was. And an author that can make me love a love triangle...bring it on!!
The key players in this delicious romance are:
I will say that I had no idea that this would be such a strong love triangle, and I wouldn't put it down to equal love affair between the three characters involved. I was pretty certain the main couple would end up together, but unlike other love triangles like this one, I wasn't sure how this would play out without Arthur being really hurt in the end. So let me tell you the "zist" of the story here.
Daisy is very determined to make sure her sisters have a great future and when trying to get into the New York Society failed, she decided to go across the "pond" to London to exchange her wealth for a title and she and her mentor focus their attention on the Duke of Meridian. But before Daisy even meets the Duke in question, she stumbles across his younger brother Ashton and sparks fly between the two. But Daisy needs to marry into a title and so even though she feels more with Ashton, she wants to make an effort to win the affections of Arthur. Daisy needs to prove that her heritage is worthy of a Dukedom and while on her search, Ashton joins her and they develop a strong attachment even knowing that it could never be possible. And when Daisy and Arthur start to court and become "friends" Daisy has a difficult choice to make. Choose the man who holds her heart or the man she has already agreed to marry.
What I found most intriguing about this book is the way that this story developed. I honestly never imagined that it would turn in the way that it does. Now we have these two sexy brothers. One is the Duke and the other is the Spare. Ashton is very protective of his brother. Arthur has cared more about his research and books than being involved in the world and is always being put down by their relatives. My heart went out to Arthur who is quite innocent in the ways of the world, he hasn't ever kissed a woman until Daisy. Daisy and Arthur don't fall in love with each other but we see a strong friendship form between them and this is where it gets even more complication. Daisy doesn't wish to hurt Arthur by telling him her heart belongs with his brother. I really enjoyed seeing the bond that these three have together and seeing a happy ending happen for Ashton and Daisy. And an ending that was heartwarming, funny and lifted my spirits. A romance that will weave a place into your heart!! SIMPLY DELIGHTFUL!
A Good Day To Marry A Duke is a victorian era romance that involves a sassy American heroine looking to marry a Titled Englishman to secure future for her sisters and a Duke's brother whose mission is to prevent any relationship forming....war lines are formed of seduction and true love....
A Good Day To Marry A Duke is a sensational read that I just couldn't get enough of and once I started reading this book I was hooked. Now I will admit I was a bit nervous about this book, because I haven't read this author in YEARS and wasn't sure if her writing would change or be the same and would I still like it and I can say that YES it is superb and I love the depth of writing here and the research is so evident in this book and I wish more regency/victorian romances were written like this one was. And an author that can make me love a love triangle...bring it on!!
The key players in this delicious romance are:
- Daisy Bumgarten, our heroine, who is an American, grew up around cowboys and horses, but has wealth and needs to marry a man with a title to help her sisters.
- Lord Ashton, is the younger brother of the Duke in question, protective and loving of his brother and will do anything for him. He is cunningly smart and loyal.
- Duke of Meridian, Arthur Graham, is focused on his studies and research of all species of butterflies, and is secluded from society most of the time. Innocent in many ways of the world.
I will say that I had no idea that this would be such a strong love triangle, and I wouldn't put it down to equal love affair between the three characters involved. I was pretty certain the main couple would end up together, but unlike other love triangles like this one, I wasn't sure how this would play out without Arthur being really hurt in the end. So let me tell you the "zist" of the story here.
Daisy is very determined to make sure her sisters have a great future and when trying to get into the New York Society failed, she decided to go across the "pond" to London to exchange her wealth for a title and she and her mentor focus their attention on the Duke of Meridian. But before Daisy even meets the Duke in question, she stumbles across his younger brother Ashton and sparks fly between the two. But Daisy needs to marry into a title and so even though she feels more with Ashton, she wants to make an effort to win the affections of Arthur. Daisy needs to prove that her heritage is worthy of a Dukedom and while on her search, Ashton joins her and they develop a strong attachment even knowing that it could never be possible. And when Daisy and Arthur start to court and become "friends" Daisy has a difficult choice to make. Choose the man who holds her heart or the man she has already agreed to marry.
What I found most intriguing about this book is the way that this story developed. I honestly never imagined that it would turn in the way that it does. Now we have these two sexy brothers. One is the Duke and the other is the Spare. Ashton is very protective of his brother. Arthur has cared more about his research and books than being involved in the world and is always being put down by their relatives. My heart went out to Arthur who is quite innocent in the ways of the world, he hasn't ever kissed a woman until Daisy. Daisy and Arthur don't fall in love with each other but we see a strong friendship form between them and this is where it gets even more complication. Daisy doesn't wish to hurt Arthur by telling him her heart belongs with his brother. I really enjoyed seeing the bond that these three have together and seeing a happy ending happen for Ashton and Daisy. And an ending that was heartwarming, funny and lifted my spirits. A romance that will weave a place into your heart!! SIMPLY DELIGHTFUL!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
In Good Girl, we are taken to our heroine who is a country singer/songwriter. She is building up in her popularity. Jenny Dawson has a deep love for music, but lately her muse has been gone. So she moved to LA, on the whim of her manager. But when her life is ruined by a false rumor she goes to the countryside in the middle of no where to get away and reconnect with herself and step back from all the craziness from the media. Preston Noah Maxwell is also a man in hiding. He has more than enough money to last him an eternity of lifetimes,thanks to his father, but he hates his wealth at times. Noah didn't have the best upbringing. But when his fiancee has an affair, he ends their engagement. He comes to remodel an old house, and meets up with Jenny Dawson. At first Jenny and Noah hate his each other. They fight like cats and dogs. They are secrets between them, and are complete opposites in many ways. But oh man the chemistry is fiery hot!! These two were so entertaining. Their interactions were fun and so many laugh out loud moments that Layne gives us a fun read!!! And the ending was just perfect...better than I imagined. Even though there were many fun moments to this story, at times I felt the flow was a bit off. Occasionally my attention was easy to veer away from the story. I liked the characters here but didn't necessarily love them. I had issues with both Jenny and Noah. Not huge enough issues to take away my enjoyment, but it still made a bit of difference in some ways. Overall though a enjoyable romance that will give you some good times. And I enjoyed Good Girl enough to want to pick this author up more for sure!!
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In Good Girl, we are taken to our heroine who is a country singer/songwriter. She is building up in her popularity. Jenny Dawson has a deep love for music, but lately her muse has been gone. So she moved to LA, on the whim of her manager. But when her life is ruined by a false rumor she goes to the countryside in the middle of no where to get away and reconnect with herself and step back from all the craziness from the media. Preston Noah Maxwell is also a man in hiding. He has more than enough money to last him an eternity of lifetimes,thanks to his father, but he hates his wealth at times. Noah didn't have the best upbringing. But when his fiancee has an affair, he ends their engagement. He comes to remodel an old house, and meets up with Jenny Dawson. At first Jenny and Noah hate his each other. They fight like cats and dogs. They are secrets between them, and are complete opposites in many ways. But oh man the chemistry is fiery hot!! These two were so entertaining. Their interactions were fun and so many laugh out loud moments that Layne gives us a fun read!!! And the ending was just perfect...better than I imagined. Even though there were many fun moments to this story, at times I felt the flow was a bit off. Occasionally my attention was easy to veer away from the story. I liked the characters here but didn't necessarily love them. I had issues with both Jenny and Noah. Not huge enough issues to take away my enjoyment, but it still made a bit of difference in some ways. Overall though a enjoyable romance that will give you some good times. And I enjoyed Good Girl enough to want to pick this author up more for sure!!
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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Lady Hermione Upperton has had to deal with the consequences of her gambler of a father. She meets Jasper Fawley, the Earl of Mainwaring through friends and by being the first woman to join the gentleman's riding club Lords of Anarchy. She and Jasper develop a friendship of sorts when dealing with each other. But she is shocked to learn that her father has gambled away her precious horses that she purchased with her own funds. The man who received her horses, isn't a man you want to cross....someone that has been seeking her horses and is suspected of being involved in horse thefts. Jasper, is feeling protective of Hermione, especially when she cross paths with two of the men involved in crimes against the crown and her life could be in danger if she crosses them. What he didn't expect in a game with Hermione's foolish father, was for him to gamble his daughter to him in marriage. He can just imagine how furious she will be when she learns the truth, but they soon realize that Jasper is one of the best prospects for Hermione...knowing it would be a matter of time before her father gambled her away on a card game. But soon their enemy and someone they didn't suspect may destroy them both.
Jasper, the Earl of Mainwaring, is of the Aristocracy. He grew up most of his life without a father, who died in a accident. Ever since he has felt uneasy driving curricles anywhere unless he has to. Along with his titled responsibilities, he helps with aiding his government with certain enemies. His latest orders are to get to the bottom of the horse thieves and get proof against them. But there is one slight problem...the woman that is on their radar is also the same woman he feels a strong connection to and will protect even though they have only a fragile friendship. Jasper finds Hermione entertaining and he respects her spirited nature. Jasper is quite the delctable hero. He isn't perfect, he struggles with fears of the past but has great strength of character.
Lady Hermione Upperton is quite passionate especially when it comes to riding. She has always loved riding and has worked hard to get into the Lords of Anarchy riding club. She doesn't back down from any challenge. Hermione lost her mother when she was young, but she still remembers her in moments. Her relationship with her father is vastly different. Her father has a sickness to gambling, and can't ever give it up. Hermione has had to deal with losing much over the years due to his weakness. But when she loses her prized horses which she paid for with her own funds she is furious with her father. But her father doesn't understand that he has done anything wrong. When he strokes the final straw on the camel's back when he barters her away in marriage to Jasper, she knows its the only choice she has. Especially when she is the prime suspect in a murder. But she realizes that she will be protected by Jasper and no longer be under her father's thumb. Hermione was quite fun and unique, and although she did have some modern like qualities...she still had some characteristics of the time. I liked seeing certain depths to her character become revealed.
In Good Earl Gone Bad we see a story that I have been very eager to read. Manda Collins is a fun author that writes lighthearted romance with a bit of depth and unique elements she brings to her stories. In Good Earl Gone Bad we see something creative. I loved the various elements that in the beginning, I wasn't sure how they would all fit together, but ending up with a great flow and as certain truths are revealed we see how different paths these characters are led on, they are brought together. This aspect of the story was quite enjoyable to see it all unfold.
Another great aspect we see is the conflict of the enemies and other characters that end up bringing Jasper and Hermione together. I love a great mystery with great villains that boy they cause some great tension for the story that I loved. I love some good enemies....and a villain you don't see in the end. Manda Collins wrote a whopper in this, I was delightfully surprised in certain aspects that become unveiled in the end. We also see the influence of poor choices and a bad addiction to gambling can bring about positive results you don't see at first.
The romance that develops between Jasper and Hermione starts as a friendship and develops into more. I really enjoyed seeing this trope---I love seeing the change from friends to lovers and I felt that Collins handles this pretty well. I liked how well these two do together, even from the beginning when they don't necessarily like each other, we see the chemistry that they have. I will admit though...I didn't always feel able to connect to them, especially when it came to the romance between them. I was perfect fine with the friendship, but at times it seemed difficult at times when their relationship changed.
I also loved seeing some of the secondary characters, the friends of Jasper and Hermione. Their bantering and unique personalities added a bit of a different atmosphere that I thoroughly enjoyed seeing. It makes me excited for the third book here.
I adore this cover...such a great romantic pose we have here. I love the mix of blue and red.
Good Earl Gone Bad is a exciting and fun romance for the latest series by Manda Collins. Its a story of great chemistry, adventure and some mystery and suspense along the way to keep things interesting. SIMPLY A FUN ROMANCE!!
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Summary
Lady Hermione Upperton has had to deal with the consequences of her gambler of a father. She meets Jasper Fawley, the Earl of Mainwaring through friends and by being the first woman to join the gentleman's riding club Lords of Anarchy. She and Jasper develop a friendship of sorts when dealing with each other. But she is shocked to learn that her father has gambled away her precious horses that she purchased with her own funds. The man who received her horses, isn't a man you want to cross....someone that has been seeking her horses and is suspected of being involved in horse thefts. Jasper, is feeling protective of Hermione, especially when she cross paths with two of the men involved in crimes against the crown and her life could be in danger if she crosses them. What he didn't expect in a game with Hermione's foolish father, was for him to gamble his daughter to him in marriage. He can just imagine how furious she will be when she learns the truth, but they soon realize that Jasper is one of the best prospects for Hermione...knowing it would be a matter of time before her father gambled her away on a card game. But soon their enemy and someone they didn't suspect may destroy them both.
The Hero
Jasper, the Earl of Mainwaring, is of the Aristocracy. He grew up most of his life without a father, who died in a accident. Ever since he has felt uneasy driving curricles anywhere unless he has to. Along with his titled responsibilities, he helps with aiding his government with certain enemies. His latest orders are to get to the bottom of the horse thieves and get proof against them. But there is one slight problem...the woman that is on their radar is also the same woman he feels a strong connection to and will protect even though they have only a fragile friendship. Jasper finds Hermione entertaining and he respects her spirited nature. Jasper is quite the delctable hero. He isn't perfect, he struggles with fears of the past but has great strength of character.
The Heroine
Lady Hermione Upperton is quite passionate especially when it comes to riding. She has always loved riding and has worked hard to get into the Lords of Anarchy riding club. She doesn't back down from any challenge. Hermione lost her mother when she was young, but she still remembers her in moments. Her relationship with her father is vastly different. Her father has a sickness to gambling, and can't ever give it up. Hermione has had to deal with losing much over the years due to his weakness. But when she loses her prized horses which she paid for with her own funds she is furious with her father. But her father doesn't understand that he has done anything wrong. When he strokes the final straw on the camel's back when he barters her away in marriage to Jasper, she knows its the only choice she has. Especially when she is the prime suspect in a murder. But she realizes that she will be protected by Jasper and no longer be under her father's thumb. Hermione was quite fun and unique, and although she did have some modern like qualities...she still had some characteristics of the time. I liked seeing certain depths to her character become revealed.
Plot and Story Line
In Good Earl Gone Bad we see a story that I have been very eager to read. Manda Collins is a fun author that writes lighthearted romance with a bit of depth and unique elements she brings to her stories. In Good Earl Gone Bad we see something creative. I loved the various elements that in the beginning, I wasn't sure how they would all fit together, but ending up with a great flow and as certain truths are revealed we see how different paths these characters are led on, they are brought together. This aspect of the story was quite enjoyable to see it all unfold.
Another great aspect we see is the conflict of the enemies and other characters that end up bringing Jasper and Hermione together. I love a great mystery with great villains that boy they cause some great tension for the story that I loved. I love some good enemies....and a villain you don't see in the end. Manda Collins wrote a whopper in this, I was delightfully surprised in certain aspects that become unveiled in the end. We also see the influence of poor choices and a bad addiction to gambling can bring about positive results you don't see at first.
The romance that develops between Jasper and Hermione starts as a friendship and develops into more. I really enjoyed seeing this trope---I love seeing the change from friends to lovers and I felt that Collins handles this pretty well. I liked how well these two do together, even from the beginning when they don't necessarily like each other, we see the chemistry that they have. I will admit though...I didn't always feel able to connect to them, especially when it came to the romance between them. I was perfect fine with the friendship, but at times it seemed difficult at times when their relationship changed.
I also loved seeing some of the secondary characters, the friends of Jasper and Hermione. Their bantering and unique personalities added a bit of a different atmosphere that I thoroughly enjoyed seeing. It makes me excited for the third book here.
The Cover
I adore this cover...such a great romantic pose we have here. I love the mix of blue and red.
Overall View
Good Earl Gone Bad is a exciting and fun romance for the latest series by Manda Collins. Its a story of great chemistry, adventure and some mystery and suspense along the way to keep things interesting. SIMPLY A FUN ROMANCE!!
[foogallery id="19667"]
WOW!! So good and very emotional read....review soon to come!! Keep these fab books coming Kelly Bowen!!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Miss Leonora Craven, is grieving over her twin's death and she will do whatever it takes to find the answers to the mystery of his death. She knows that it wasn't an accident and there is one man who has the answers...Frederick Isle. On a burst of anger she bursts into his club and demands answers. Freddy knows that one of his closest friends wouldn't be careless with his own life. And he has been charged to find the answers, especially since the man they believe is probably responsible is his cousin. Freddy is overwhelmed to be working with Nora once again. She once broke off their engagement, and broke his heart and he ended up fleeing to Europe. He has just returned and is on the hunt for the man that murdered his friend, but he will need to work with Nora and act the loving engaged couple in order to get the answers he needs. What begins as a mystery turns into a passionate love affaire, one that reconnects these two who need love and a chance to begin again with each other. But soon there is more than love at risk, their own lives are in peril if they make one mistake.
Lord Frederick Isle is the youngest son of the family. And even though he is close to his family, he has always wanted to make his own way. He and three other men formed a friendship and called themselves the "Four Horsemen" and they have been tight ever since despite how different each of them is. Freddy has always been a bit of a wild card before he headed over to the continent. Despite his roguish ways, he never strayed and could never understand why Nora broke off their engagement. Freddy is the hero that surprises you. At first I was thinking he is just an average English rake but boy he isn't. He is loyal, protective, and committed to what he believes in. When he loves, he loves fiercely and passionately. We see how even after all these years, he still has a soft spot for the woman that broke his heart with no explanation. We see how much he changes, and I loved his fighting spirit, and how he is so delicate in handling solving the murder of his friend. He doesn't go in half cocked, but with careful precision, and I really admire a man that thinks with his head.
Leonora Craven is a twin, and when her very opposite brother is murdered she will do anything to find out why and who really killed him. Nora is what many would call a "Bluestocking" heroine. Which I really adored seeing. Nora is a writer and writes for magazines, and is quite popular. Nora is quite driven in her cause for women to have equal rights. Even though she is considered a "radical" many listen to her. Leonora is the type of heroine you instantly admire and I really loved what a role she played in the story here. She is driven and determined and is hiding a secret. We don't really know what that secret is until about halfway, but its understandable to see why she broke things off with Freddy, especially consider the time that this story takes place. Leonora's character was quite unpredictable at times, and I never knew what she would do next.
A Good Rake Is Hard To Find was quite a fun and tantalizing read and boy I had a ball with this book. There were two major factors that really kept me so in tune with this story. The first was the plot with the murder mystery, and the second factor was the secret that Nora is hiding. Now sometimes I really have an issue with the whole "secret" but this one was a whopper and I honestly didn't see it coming at first, and it totally blew me away. This is where I got a real kick because I love it when a story tilts my axis and changes what I was expecting. It definitely was a good twist to the story. Now the romance was so achingly sweet and tender and there were times my heart just went out to these two because of what they both were struggling with. Both Freddy and Nora love each other but have been kept apart by a secret Nora refuses to share, but boy Freddy shows his true colors when he learns the extent of what Nora has gone through. Despite how much she has hurt him, he is so empathetic and understanding. Now this is where the plot thickens and it really gets intense because their lives are in danger and must tread carefully. And his cousin, what a villain. From the beginning, you sense how evil he is, and literally he is on the edge to madness really with all the actions he takes for his "club". And there is a moment toward the end that shocked me to the core, because there are some side characters that work with Freddy and Nora, and you sense how much they need the truth to come out so that those caught in this dangerous web can be free. My emotions definitely ended up getting caught up in this story. Well worth the read especially if you are a Manda Collins fan.
DELICIOUS!! Need I say more??? I love the casual yet confident pose and look at those abs....LOVE EM'
A Good Rake Is Hard To Find was a mind-blowing romance that swept me off my feet from the very beginning. There is a sensuality and dangerous feel to it that keeps you coming back for more. Stimulating and full of thrills and passion!!
Summary
Miss Leonora Craven, is grieving over her twin's death and she will do whatever it takes to find the answers to the mystery of his death. She knows that it wasn't an accident and there is one man who has the answers...Frederick Isle. On a burst of anger she bursts into his club and demands answers. Freddy knows that one of his closest friends wouldn't be careless with his own life. And he has been charged to find the answers, especially since the man they believe is probably responsible is his cousin. Freddy is overwhelmed to be working with Nora once again. She once broke off their engagement, and broke his heart and he ended up fleeing to Europe. He has just returned and is on the hunt for the man that murdered his friend, but he will need to work with Nora and act the loving engaged couple in order to get the answers he needs. What begins as a mystery turns into a passionate love affaire, one that reconnects these two who need love and a chance to begin again with each other. But soon there is more than love at risk, their own lives are in peril if they make one mistake.
The Hero
Lord Frederick Isle is the youngest son of the family. And even though he is close to his family, he has always wanted to make his own way. He and three other men formed a friendship and called themselves the "Four Horsemen" and they have been tight ever since despite how different each of them is. Freddy has always been a bit of a wild card before he headed over to the continent. Despite his roguish ways, he never strayed and could never understand why Nora broke off their engagement. Freddy is the hero that surprises you. At first I was thinking he is just an average English rake but boy he isn't. He is loyal, protective, and committed to what he believes in. When he loves, he loves fiercely and passionately. We see how even after all these years, he still has a soft spot for the woman that broke his heart with no explanation. We see how much he changes, and I loved his fighting spirit, and how he is so delicate in handling solving the murder of his friend. He doesn't go in half cocked, but with careful precision, and I really admire a man that thinks with his head.
The Heroine
Leonora Craven is a twin, and when her very opposite brother is murdered she will do anything to find out why and who really killed him. Nora is what many would call a "Bluestocking" heroine. Which I really adored seeing. Nora is a writer and writes for magazines, and is quite popular. Nora is quite driven in her cause for women to have equal rights. Even though she is considered a "radical" many listen to her. Leonora is the type of heroine you instantly admire and I really loved what a role she played in the story here. She is driven and determined and is hiding a secret. We don't really know what that secret is until about halfway, but its understandable to see why she broke things off with Freddy, especially consider the time that this story takes place. Leonora's character was quite unpredictable at times, and I never knew what she would do next.
Plot and Story Line
A Good Rake Is Hard To Find was quite a fun and tantalizing read and boy I had a ball with this book. There were two major factors that really kept me so in tune with this story. The first was the plot with the murder mystery, and the second factor was the secret that Nora is hiding. Now sometimes I really have an issue with the whole "secret" but this one was a whopper and I honestly didn't see it coming at first, and it totally blew me away. This is where I got a real kick because I love it when a story tilts my axis and changes what I was expecting. It definitely was a good twist to the story. Now the romance was so achingly sweet and tender and there were times my heart just went out to these two because of what they both were struggling with. Both Freddy and Nora love each other but have been kept apart by a secret Nora refuses to share, but boy Freddy shows his true colors when he learns the extent of what Nora has gone through. Despite how much she has hurt him, he is so empathetic and understanding. Now this is where the plot thickens and it really gets intense because their lives are in danger and must tread carefully. And his cousin, what a villain. From the beginning, you sense how evil he is, and literally he is on the edge to madness really with all the actions he takes for his "club". And there is a moment toward the end that shocked me to the core, because there are some side characters that work with Freddy and Nora, and you sense how much they need the truth to come out so that those caught in this dangerous web can be free. My emotions definitely ended up getting caught up in this story. Well worth the read especially if you are a Manda Collins fan.
The Cover
DELICIOUS!! Need I say more??? I love the casual yet confident pose and look at those abs....LOVE EM'
Overall View
A Good Rake Is Hard To Find was a mind-blowing romance that swept me off my feet from the very beginning. There is a sensuality and dangerous feel to it that keeps you coming back for more. Stimulating and full of thrills and passion!!
Lords Of Anarchy
A Good Rake Is Hard To Find (1)
Good Earl Gone Bad (2)
Good Dukes Wear Black (3)
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
I haven’t had the chance to read this author before, but when her latest book “The Good, The Bad and the Duke” was released a few months ago, I knew I wanted to pick up this book and it has such a charm to its Christmas toned cover and I will admit the cover is what really drew me to the story and I love unique titles that have me intrigued and so when I saw this book at my local library, I grabbed it right up. And sometimes with new author it can take me a while to get in the mood for them but I was really in the mood to read this one last night and from the first few pages I was beyond charmed by this witty writing.
Our story begins with seeing our couple when they are close to being teenagers, and that they are friends. Daphne and Paul are our protaganists of the story. Daphne is the sister of Paul’s best friend. We see a moment between them when Paul helps save a baby bird for Daphne and from that moment they both had a great affection for each other. But then they both grew up, and the friendship between Daphne’s brother and Paul fractured and broke apart and now its forbidden for them to spend any time together. Paul made lots of mistakes when he was younger and it cost him two of his closest friends and now with his brother and father’s death, he only has one friend, a vicar who is a bit unconventional. Paul wants to bring about change in himself and in others. He wants to be a better man and to try to fix the friendships that became broke because of his actions.
The time to Christmas is drawing near, and on Christmas Eve, both her mother and her brother leave her behind on accident and she is left with one servant who stays with her to make sure nothing happens to her. While out for a short walk at the park, her handbag is stolen with her journal by a child and as she chases him through the streets of London and she ends up at a gaming club and runs into Paul. He helps her out from being caught and creating a scandal, and she invites him and his vicar friend to Christmas. Even though there is a bond between them, Daphne is loyal to her brother and her heart is torn between the desire she feels for Paul and the love and respect she has for her brother.
The Good, The Bad and the Duke was such a sweet romance that gave me laughs and filled me with happy feels. This is a story that is light and charming but also still has a solid plot line. I loved the style of sensuality that flows in and out of the story, Which is not something you always see in a regency romance and I adored the chemistry between these two. It could have been a bit more focused at times, but I found that their relationship really grew on me. We see a mix of forbidden love and friends to lovers. I enjoy the plotline of Daphne losing her journal which unless found could cause a disaster for her family. And I will admit the tension between her brother and Paul is hilarious, I got so many laughs from their interactions but we see how Daphne holds true to her heart and what she has with Paul.
Both the hero and the heroine that we see grow in this story I fell in love with. I pretty much loved both of them. Daphne has her own passions and desires and stays true to herself. She is a bit more unconventional in that she shares her sexual desires in her journal and she embraces that side of herself and isn’t ashamed of it, but with how restrictive society is she also keeps it secret from anyone but herself. We see this side of herself really come through when she reconnects with him. I loved the intimacy that develops between these two. They have a friendship and a trust, but then we see the level of desire they have for each other and it wraps you up like a blanket on a cold winter’s night.
The hero is a character that you can admire so much. He has made mistakes with gambling, women and acting rashly. But he sobers up very quickly when his brother who has never lost faith in him, has always had his back but dies of a sickness and I love that he knows he wants a change and goes about making a better world for others. To make decisions out of honor and in the need of service to others and less thinking selfishly about his desires alone.
These two make a great team together and I had a blast seeing them discover what they have together and the obstacles that have to overcome to find their happy ever after and from beginning to end I had a fun time with this book and definitely one that is full of wit, adventure and sensuality!!!
I haven’t had the chance to read this author before, but when her latest book “The Good, The Bad and the Duke” was released a few months ago, I knew I wanted to pick up this book and it has such a charm to its Christmas toned cover and I will admit the cover is what really drew me to the story and I love unique titles that have me intrigued and so when I saw this book at my local library, I grabbed it right up. And sometimes with new author it can take me a while to get in the mood for them but I was really in the mood to read this one last night and from the first few pages I was beyond charmed by this witty writing.
Our story begins with seeing our couple when they are close to being teenagers, and that they are friends. Daphne and Paul are our protaganists of the story. Daphne is the sister of Paul’s best friend. We see a moment between them when Paul helps save a baby bird for Daphne and from that moment they both had a great affection for each other. But then they both grew up, and the friendship between Daphne’s brother and Paul fractured and broke apart and now its forbidden for them to spend any time together. Paul made lots of mistakes when he was younger and it cost him two of his closest friends and now with his brother and father’s death, he only has one friend, a vicar who is a bit unconventional. Paul wants to bring about change in himself and in others. He wants to be a better man and to try to fix the friendships that became broke because of his actions.
The time to Christmas is drawing near, and on Christmas Eve, both her mother and her brother leave her behind on accident and she is left with one servant who stays with her to make sure nothing happens to her. While out for a short walk at the park, her handbag is stolen with her journal by a child and as she chases him through the streets of London and she ends up at a gaming club and runs into Paul. He helps her out from being caught and creating a scandal, and she invites him and his vicar friend to Christmas. Even though there is a bond between them, Daphne is loyal to her brother and her heart is torn between the desire she feels for Paul and the love and respect she has for her brother.
The Good, The Bad and the Duke was such a sweet romance that gave me laughs and filled me with happy feels. This is a story that is light and charming but also still has a solid plot line. I loved the style of sensuality that flows in and out of the story, Which is not something you always see in a regency romance and I adored the chemistry between these two. It could have been a bit more focused at times, but I found that their relationship really grew on me. We see a mix of forbidden love and friends to lovers. I enjoy the plotline of Daphne losing her journal which unless found could cause a disaster for her family. And I will admit the tension between her brother and Paul is hilarious, I got so many laughs from their interactions but we see how Daphne holds true to her heart and what she has with Paul.
Both the hero and the heroine that we see grow in this story I fell in love with. I pretty much loved both of them. Daphne has her own passions and desires and stays true to herself. She is a bit more unconventional in that she shares her sexual desires in her journal and she embraces that side of herself and isn’t ashamed of it, but with how restrictive society is she also keeps it secret from anyone but herself. We see this side of herself really come through when she reconnects with him. I loved the intimacy that develops between these two. They have a friendship and a trust, but then we see the level of desire they have for each other and it wraps you up like a blanket on a cold winter’s night.
The hero is a character that you can admire so much. He has made mistakes with gambling, women and acting rashly. But he sobers up very quickly when his brother who has never lost faith in him, has always had his back but dies of a sickness and I love that he knows he wants a change and goes about making a better world for others. To make decisions out of honor and in the need of service to others and less thinking selfishly about his desires alone.
These two make a great team together and I had a blast seeing them discover what they have together and the obstacles that have to overcome to find their happy ever after and from beginning to end I had a fun time with this book and definitely one that is full of wit, adventure and sensuality!!!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Governess Game is the second installment in Tessa Dare's brilliant series "Girl Meets
Duke". The first book 'The Duchess Deal' was superb and probably one of my favorite books by this author which is saying something since I never thought anything could top her Spindle Cove series. So I was really really stoked for Alexandra's book because she was such an interesting character in book one. And boy is she ever. My first thought when picking up this book....SEXY BANTER!! Their first main interaction was the best beginning you could ever have for this story and I really liked how impressed Chase (our delicious hero) is with Alex.
Their first "kinda" first meeting is in a bookshop when they bump into each other and Alex wanted Chase as her husband and had no shame about how he made her felt including her libido. But neither of them thought that they would see each other again. Chase, has had the luck (bad or good) to have two wards, two little girls--Rosamund and Daisy, for him to raise and get ready to go to a girl's school and be trained to be ladies. Chase has NO idea how to raise girls, he is the worst person for the job. He is a charming rake and has no idea how to deal with children. He is going through more governesses than cravats, and he is at the end of his rope.
And then Alexandra walks into his home and even though her occupation is a "clock master" Chase is so impressed with how she handles him in his own home he knows what job she is better suited for....his governess. He knows that she would make sure to train Rosamund and Daisy to be ladies. Alex knows that this is a great opportunity to have the money to get started with her astronomy career and being able to put her plans in motion. At first she doesn't really have any idea on how to be a governess, and she is a bit uneasy with how "welcoming" the girls are towards her. She knows she is going to have to get her battle gear on and outsmart them but realizes there is one way to get through to them....she needs to be crafty and creative. So she takes a page from her own life, and teaches them in her own fashion and starts to educate them as they very slowly open up to her. But she knows that they have lost their parents, and have been tossed about from relative to relative and they need security and a place to feel loved.
But there is one other person that keeps her on her toes....Chase. A devilish humored Duke that is a scoundrel and a rake, has a room specifically to keep his "women" but there is a strong chemistry between Chase and Alex. Alex is curious about sex and is more than willing to take certain "lessons" from Chase who apparently knows what he is doing. He is so teasing and playful and Alex is more than willing to learn everything she can. But what happens when the summer is over and the girls go to school and Alex will have to return to her old life again...
This is a wonderfully written story and I loved the well balance of serious and playfulness that comes into play in this book. This is what Tessa Dare really excels at, I always know I will get some fun lively times but there will always be some great plot twists and her stories keep you interested. I had such a fun time with this unique Governess trope. I love having a heroine be a governess, and I have to say this is probably the most FUN I have ever had reading a governess romance. Because Alexandra she is a hoot, super smart but has class. I love how open she is when it comes to sex, she is very curious and a fast learner. She is great with children and I love how she connects with the two girls who are in such need of affection and security which Alex gives them. I really admired this heroine because she has such a fascination with astronomy and it's NOT boring y'all. She does have a painful past though and still suffers nightmares because of it. So I liked the complexity of her character.
Now, Chase, he was a bit different than I was expecting, even for a rakish duke. He definitely is hiding something about his past that he tries to cover up with charm and a sexy smile. But smart and sassy Alex sees right through the cover-up and gets to the heart of him even when he fears it. We see some vulnerability in Chase and we see that not everything is as it seems on the surface. We see a man that still is haunted by a past memory and experience and is afraid to love and doesn't think he has anything to offer anyone...most especially Alex who deserves better than what he can give her. But Alex is a fighter and not one to give up on Chase.
The sexual chemistry between these two is SUPERB....I swear that Tessa Dare is only getting better at writing these sex scenes, they are just phenomenal. They are sensual, and warm but also inflected in them the right wit and emotion that delivers in every satisfying way. It is guaranteed to put flames to your book so watch out or you might get burned from this explosive chemistry that is shared between Chase and Alex.
We, of course, get some fun times between the group of friends and I loved seeing them all and of course, we get some hilarious moments with Emma and Ashbury. And Chase PASSES the test with the girls....so he definitely has promise right?
The romance as a whole was purely delicious, I honestly didn't want to let go of Chase and Alex, their story was bright and emotionally entangled, I love how happy their love tale delivers to the reader. It's a story that packs a punch to curl your toes and leave you happy and with the urge to go out dancing in the street. PURE DELIGHT!!
[foogallery id="59139"]
The Governess Game is the second installment in Tessa Dare's brilliant series "Girl Meets
Duke". The first book 'The Duchess Deal' was superb and probably one of my favorite books by this author which is saying something since I never thought anything could top her Spindle Cove series. So I was really really stoked for Alexandra's book because she was such an interesting character in book one. And boy is she ever. My first thought when picking up this book....SEXY BANTER!! Their first main interaction was the best beginning you could ever have for this story and I really liked how impressed Chase (our delicious hero) is with Alex.Their first "kinda" first meeting is in a bookshop when they bump into each other and Alex wanted Chase as her husband and had no shame about how he made her felt including her libido. But neither of them thought that they would see each other again. Chase, has had the luck (bad or good) to have two wards, two little girls--Rosamund and Daisy, for him to raise and get ready to go to a girl's school and be trained to be ladies. Chase has NO idea how to raise girls, he is the worst person for the job. He is a charming rake and has no idea how to deal with children. He is going through more governesses than cravats, and he is at the end of his rope.
And then Alexandra walks into his home and even though her occupation is a "clock master" Chase is so impressed with how she handles him in his own home he knows what job she is better suited for....his governess. He knows that she would make sure to train Rosamund and Daisy to be ladies. Alex knows that this is a great opportunity to have the money to get started with her astronomy career and being able to put her plans in motion. At first she doesn't really have any idea on how to be a governess, and she is a bit uneasy with how "welcoming" the girls are towards her. She knows she is going to have to get her battle gear on and outsmart them but realizes there is one way to get through to them....she needs to be crafty and creative. So she takes a page from her own life, and teaches them in her own fashion and starts to educate them as they very slowly open up to her. But she knows that they have lost their parents, and have been tossed about from relative to relative and they need security and a place to feel loved.
But there is one other person that keeps her on her toes....Chase. A devilish humored Duke that is a scoundrel and a rake, has a room specifically to keep his "women" but there is a strong chemistry between Chase and Alex. Alex is curious about sex and is more than willing to take certain "lessons" from Chase who apparently knows what he is doing. He is so teasing and playful and Alex is more than willing to learn everything she can. But what happens when the summer is over and the girls go to school and Alex will have to return to her old life again...
Devilish charm simply radiated from him, like one of nature’s essential forces… Gravity, magnetism… electricity
This is a wonderfully written story and I loved the well balance of serious and playfulness that comes into play in this book. This is what Tessa Dare really excels at, I always know I will get some fun lively times but there will always be some great plot twists and her stories keep you interested. I had such a fun time with this unique Governess trope. I love having a heroine be a governess, and I have to say this is probably the most FUN I have ever had reading a governess romance. Because Alexandra she is a hoot, super smart but has class. I love how open she is when it comes to sex, she is very curious and a fast learner. She is great with children and I love how she connects with the two girls who are in such need of affection and security which Alex gives them. I really admired this heroine because she has such a fascination with astronomy and it's NOT boring y'all. She does have a painful past though and still suffers nightmares because of it. So I liked the complexity of her character.
Because when it comes to love, Chase has no idea wht the devil he's doing. He's brilliant at caring for others. He's bollocks at letting others care for him.
Now, Chase, he was a bit different than I was expecting, even for a rakish duke. He definitely is hiding something about his past that he tries to cover up with charm and a sexy smile. But smart and sassy Alex sees right through the cover-up and gets to the heart of him even when he fears it. We see some vulnerability in Chase and we see that not everything is as it seems on the surface. We see a man that still is haunted by a past memory and experience and is afraid to love and doesn't think he has anything to offer anyone...most especially Alex who deserves better than what he can give her. But Alex is a fighter and not one to give up on Chase.
He would take her.
Take her into his embrace.
Take her lips with his.
And, by God, take her breath away.l
The sexual chemistry between these two is SUPERB....I swear that Tessa Dare is only getting better at writing these sex scenes, they are just phenomenal. They are sensual, and warm but also inflected in them the right wit and emotion that delivers in every satisfying way. It is guaranteed to put flames to your book so watch out or you might get burned from this explosive chemistry that is shared between Chase and Alex.
We, of course, get some fun times between the group of friends and I loved seeing them all and of course, we get some hilarious moments with Emma and Ashbury. And Chase PASSES the test with the girls....so he definitely has promise right?
You are the last person I want to see before I fall asleep at night. Every night. The last woman I want to kiss for the remainder of my life. And yourlovely face is the very last thing I want to see before I die. Because I love you, Alexandra.
The romance as a whole was purely delicious, I honestly didn't want to let go of Chase and Alex, their story was bright and emotionally entangled, I love how happy their love tale delivers to the reader. It's a story that packs a punch to curl your toes and leave you happy and with the urge to go out dancing in the street. PURE DELIGHT!!
[foogallery id="59139"]
I Received a ARC copy in exchange for a honest review.
Sara Collins, is one of the founding members of the Governess Club. Sara is shy and reserved. She hates teaching but will do whatever she can to help her friends. Sara grew up with a mother that practically forced her into being the shy woman she is now. Recently she has started to have interest in the new pastor, but while out on visits she meets Nathan Grant. Nathan is a politician and has come from London to find solitude and quiet, until he meets Sara. Nathan sees Sara as a a woman that is just wanting to burst free of passion, and he is more than willing to draw that side of her out. Sara doesn't know why she is drawn to this gruff and overbearing man, but he makes her want to have adventure and not be the shy woman that she hates being now. She just wants to take a little walk on the wild side, but it could cost her everything, even the man she has come to love.
Sara is the third book and I just flew through this one. In fact I was shocked by how much I enjoyed this one. I am starting to really love this new author to Avon Books.I do enjoy governess romances, and I loved the way this story turned out. I felt a kinship with Sara, she is super shy and practically afraid of her shadow but as you get more in the story, you see her inner strength, and you start to get a glimpse of her childhood, and you start to find yourself endeared to her. She definitely will surprise you, she has a deep sense of adventure and passion and I enjoyed seeing it brought out in the least expected times. Nathan Grant is my ideal hero. Even though he has that Alpha personality, you see what a great match he is for Sara. It was fun seeing how he draws her out from her shell and in creative ways too.
I found this story to be lovely and romantic, the type of story that captures your heart from page one. With entertaining scenes, enticing characters, and a plot that is pure romantic fun!!
Sara Collins, is one of the founding members of the Governess Club. Sara is shy and reserved. She hates teaching but will do whatever she can to help her friends. Sara grew up with a mother that practically forced her into being the shy woman she is now. Recently she has started to have interest in the new pastor, but while out on visits she meets Nathan Grant. Nathan is a politician and has come from London to find solitude and quiet, until he meets Sara. Nathan sees Sara as a a woman that is just wanting to burst free of passion, and he is more than willing to draw that side of her out. Sara doesn't know why she is drawn to this gruff and overbearing man, but he makes her want to have adventure and not be the shy woman that she hates being now. She just wants to take a little walk on the wild side, but it could cost her everything, even the man she has come to love.
Sara is the third book and I just flew through this one. In fact I was shocked by how much I enjoyed this one. I am starting to really love this new author to Avon Books.I do enjoy governess romances, and I loved the way this story turned out. I felt a kinship with Sara, she is super shy and practically afraid of her shadow but as you get more in the story, you see her inner strength, and you start to get a glimpse of her childhood, and you start to find yourself endeared to her. She definitely will surprise you, she has a deep sense of adventure and passion and I enjoyed seeing it brought out in the least expected times. Nathan Grant is my ideal hero. Even though he has that Alpha personality, you see what a great match he is for Sara. It was fun seeing how he draws her out from her shell and in creative ways too.
I found this story to be lovely and romantic, the type of story that captures your heart from page one. With entertaining scenes, enticing characters, and a plot that is pure romantic fun!!