CoLe
I'm stuck between OK and good, thus 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. I was enticed to read this series by its theme of a desperate wallflower's bold presumption of a connection to a highly ranked peer. Perhaps I expected too much after book 1, which had me grinning at the heroine's cheek and the amusing dialogues. Here the repeated mention of raccoons distracted me. Why would the characters refer to a creature which is not indigenous to Great Britain and whose habits where surely unknown to them in the early 19th century? Nicholas' quest for revenge was (to a degree) understandable, however rather assuming; I saw the hint of the possibility of a grave error in judgement and wondered if that error would in fact be realized. Maryann's brother's behavior gave me an inkling of an impending and interesting twist near the end. I'm curious what schemes the next in this series brings. I read a free advance copy; the thoughts expressed are my own.
9 people found this review helpful
Peggy Collins
Revenge and romance is a dangerous combination. Nicolas St. Ives, Marquess Rothbury, has spent a decade ruining the men who ruined his friend and drove her to suicide. Nicolas has seen his obsession with revenge for Arianna through but for two men. He doesn’t want romance, and he uses his reputation to avoid it. That is until Miss Maryann Fitzwilliam decided that the best way to avoid the marriage her parents have arranged is to be ruined, by Nicolas. These two are perfect together. You keep hoping things work out so that they have a chance. Will Nicolas save Maryann from a horrible marriage? Will she be able to help him heal from the guilt and pain of his past and his obsession with revenge? This is an interesting story. When Nicolas sets out to serve comeuppance, he is not kidding around. There is danger and drama, but there are also some lighter moments, and romance, or at least some wild courting. Maryann is an independent (as much as she can be) bluestocking who had no desire to settle down, until she got to know Nicolas. It seems Crispin, Maryann’s brother feels as guilty about what happened to Arianna as Nicolas; and Crispin has a secret he has kept for ten years. He…no, you’ll have to find out for yourself. A good read with compelling characters and an engaging plot, I recommend it. I enjoyed listening to the audiobook version narrated by Mary Sarah. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
1 person found this review helpful
Joanie H
Delightful Treasure! This is not just any historical romance. This is a story that doesn’t let go. Maryann, is considered a wallflower. She doesn’t want to conform to her parents’ wishes for her to marry Lord Stamford. She is an independent thinking young woman and speaks her mind. This is not a quality in the time period of balls where the ton hides behind fans and gossip. She dreams of something sinful. Entering into the story is Nicolas, Marquess of Rothbury. He is relentlessly pursuing to right an injustic of many years ago. By chance, their paths cross. This story takes your emotions to many places and the story will continue to embrace you, over and over. There are surprises. The development of this plot builds in anticipation, of sexuality, love and intrigue. This is an amazing story that will not disappoint your senses. In fact, I finished it feeling blown away. It may be a new favorite of mine by this author!
12 people found this review helpful