Loving Lady Marcia (House of Brady, #1)

May 10, 2013 Sans marked it as aint-gonna-happen

Sep 01, 2012 Kelly_Instalove rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: wtf-ugh-blah-ick-stfu, genre-romance, era-historical, source-netgalley

Grade: DNF

Let’s be honest: It’s obvious this book was written and published JUST SO I COULD MAKE FUN OF IT.

I made it to about 30%. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it might be (e.g., Lady Alexandra Bad), but it wasn’t good.

All the cover quotes for Kieran Kramer’s debut Impossible Bachelor series featured a LOT of synonyms for fluff: Delectable. Frothy. Confection. Better than dessert. All those same words can easily be applied to this first installment in the House of Brady series.

Yeah, yeah, yeah...more

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Sep 21, 2012 Anna's Herding Cats! rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, kramer-kieran, lost-years, single-parents, children, kidnapped, career-teacher, london, 2012

Posted for Herding Cats & Burning Soup

Loving Lady Marcia was my first book by Kieran Kramer and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from her! It took me a little bit of time to get into the flow of her writing style but once I did I found myself completely engrossed in Marcia and Duncan's story. I love the whole enemies to lovers theme and when couples have a bit of a history together so I really enjoyed their tale. Add in some family drama and head strong characters and it was a...more Posted for Herding Cats & Burning Soup

Loving Lady Marcia was my first book by Kieran Kramer and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from her! It took me a little bit of time to get into the flow of her writing style but once I did I found myself completely engrossed in Marcia and Duncan's story. I love the whole enemies to lovers theme and when couples have a bit of a history together so I really enjoyed their tale. Add in some family drama and head strong characters and it was a fun little read.

She looked away, and he pulled her chin back around with a gentle finger.

"You should be kissed," he said. "Every day. By a man who adores you."

Duncan was hands down my favorite thing. I absolutely adored this man. He's a hero you can't help but fall for and one you'd be a fool not to want in your life. He does what he thinks is right, proper society and their opinions be damned. Especially when it comes to raising his young son who was illegitimate. I loved every second of their time together. There's a little more to their story that just melted my heart and had me falling even more in love with Duncan. Whew. He's good. Marcia was a little harder to warm up to because of her young age but she was still a delightful heroine. Determined and focused on what she wants, caring and compassionate and every once in a while a bit wild. Yeah, I liked her just fine.

There's a nice chemistry between Duncan and Marcia and it was rather entertaining to watch them figuring out their lives and falling in love. Things weren't as steamy as I usually prefer but it's a nice solid enjoyable romance.

If you watched the Brady Bunch growing up you might notice some subtle little glimmers of the show since it inspired the House of Brady series. A blended family, similar slightly tweaked names(ex-Cynthia, Janice), a couple familiar scenes, etc. I loved looking for all the little similarities. There were some sugary sweet moments just like in the show but all in all it really worked for me and made me smile.

If you like sweet and heart-touching stories I'd definitely recommend hunting down a copy of Loving Lady Marcia.(less)

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Mar 12, 2013 Diana Francis rated it 4 of 5 stars

Disclaimer: I got this in a goodreads giveaway.

Honestly, I'm not sure I want to give it a 3.5 or a 4 star rating. The Brady Bunch reference in the blurb needs to die a horrible death though. Anyhow, onto the book. I did like the characters, though Finn was really one-dimensional to me. I really liked that Marcia confesses when she needs to in order to save her sister, but then her father goes all get married or else on her, which bugged me. It's like he didn't know his own daughter all of sudde...more

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Nov 09, 2012 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

LOVING LADY MARCIA by Kieran Kramer is an exciting historical romance. Book 1 of "The House of Brady". Brady clan(House of Brady) is three lovely,lively sisters with hair of gold,hearts to match and are looking for husbands. Follow Lady Marcia Sherwood and Duncan Latimore,the Earl of Chadwick, on an adventure of a lifetime as they find true love and happiness amongst the madness. "Loving Lady Marcia" is full of secrets,betrayal,romance,lies,deceit,passion and finding true love. Ms. Kramer is a w...more

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Aug 30, 2012 Alexia Chantel rated it 3 of 5 stars

3.5 Stars

Kramer introduces book one in the House of Brady series with a hit. Loving Lady Marcia is a sweet historical romance with a wonderful hero that will steal your heart, and a strong heroine you will cheer for.

Marcia is a woman who fell prey to young love, the consequence of her actions causing her to alter her life. Though her self imposed exile becomes a passion and her calling, to teach and be there for young women as they go through their own growing up stages. Life has its way of thro...more 3.5 Stars

Kramer introduces book one in the House of Brady series with a hit. Loving Lady Marcia is a sweet historical romance with a wonderful hero that will steal your heart, and a strong heroine you will cheer for.

Marcia is a woman who fell prey to young love, the consequence of her actions causing her to alter her life. Though her self imposed exile becomes a passion and her calling, to teach and be there for young women as they go through their own growing up stages. Life has its way of throwing curves, and hers certainly did by closing the door on her headmistress position and opening another that could lead to true love.

Duncan is an honorable man, maybe a little too much at times. He wants to be able to fix everything, which as you know is impossible for anyone. The scene where he meets Marcia years after the fateful trip she took with him and his brother is memorable. He is so shocked by her and drawn to her, even when she acts cold and dismissive. From then on Duncan has his goal, her. And you will enjoy his efforts every step of the way.

One such step Duncan takes it to try assist Marcia in obtaining her old position as headmistress, even while he is planning on convincing her to marry him. As he introduces her to influential people, lets her meet his son, and tries in his own way to offer her support Marcia slowly steals his heart.

If you are a historical romance fan you will enjoy Loving Lady Marcia. Duncan and Marcia have chemistry yet also deal with emotions and issues that go along with new love. It maybe a little hard to believe how easy it is for Marcia to meet Duncan and his son in secret so often, and the solution to Marcia’s nemesis and former employer is tied up rather quickly. The plot may not sound like much happens, and yet you will still be turning the pages quickly. Overall it is enjoyable and will leave you with a little smile on your face after you are finished.

Review posted at Reading Between the Wines blog:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...
(copy courtesy of NetGalley)(less)

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Aug 30, 2012 Suzie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, blog-tour-book, england-1800-s, fiction, historical-fiction, kindle-book, marriage, net-gallery, romance-historical-england, romance, romance-regency, rrrc-s-book-challenge

When I saw that Innovative was asking for reviewers to host this tour with reviews I jumped at the chance. To have an early copy of a historical romance book felt like a birthday present to me. I love historical romance books and Kieran is one of my favorite authors in this genre. I have read all of Kieran books. With her starting a new series I will try and wait patiently for the rest, however it will be hard. Ok, Kieran I know you can write faster. You should write one word for every step you...more When I saw that Innovative was asking for reviewers to host this tour with reviews I jumped at the chance. To have an early copy of a historical romance book felt like a birthday present to me. I love historical romance books and Kieran is one of my favorite authors in this genre. I have read all of Kieran books. With her starting a new series I will try and wait patiently for the rest, however it will be hard. Ok, Kieran I know you can write faster. You should write one word for every step you take on the treadmill. Then you could write 3-4 books a years. I need my regency fix. Sorry I had to get that out of my system. Thanks for all the wonderful books Kieran. I have loved each and every one of them. I hope my review will do justice to this wonderful book. Please be aware that I will not divulge a lot about this book. If I wrote a review like that it would be full of spoilers. Spoilers are not fun for someone who has not read the book nor is it fair to the author. I will write about my feelings and opinions about this book.

Lady Marcia is traveling to her family in Ireland for a wedding. She is being escorted by Lord Chadwick and his brother Mr. Duncan Lattimore. Marcia is smitten with Finn. With Marcia only 15 years old she does not have the knowledge to realize that Finn is a rake. Marcia looks at Finn and sees someone that looks at her as a woman someone that will treat her as an adult. Little does she know that Finn does not care about her age?

You could say that Marcia and Finn had a whirlwind courtship but someone quickly put an end to it. However Duncan was only interested in one item Marcia had.

I know you are wondering what makes this romance different than any other romance book out there. Well, Kieran has made some tough challenges for Marcia to face. Yes, all books in a specific genre have the same plot, it is up to the author to create challenges that will draw readers in. The more different or difficult the challenge the more interested readers will be. Well, Kieran has created some great and interesting challenges. While reading this book I did not just get to relax and release stress from the day, I got carried all the way to Regency England. It was wonderful.

Thanks for such a wonderful read Kieran. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.

The bunnies and I give this book 4 carrots.

The publisher provided me a copy of this book to read/review for a blog tour. (less)

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Aug 30, 2012 Vickie Dold rated it 5 of 5 stars

At the risk of aging myself, I grew up on the Brady bunch and I love that Kieran is writing this series!

Ok, admit it, you just said “Marcia, Marcia, Marcia” LOL.

So, onto the book...

Duncan is a wonderful man, he has to take over as earl at such a young age and do clean up and repair after is father and brother. I felt bad for him because of that situation, it the way he works so hard to make the world a better place by be a fixer just makes him all the more wonderful. It doesn't hurt that he is h...more

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Aug 28, 2012 Flame rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: great-but-not-perfect, historical-romance

Loving Lady Marcia was a good read. I really enjoyed it. The plot was simple and rather straightforward but it kept me hooked from start to finish. I literally could not put the book down. The characters were entertaining and I really liked reading about them. The pace was also great for the book, not too fast but neither was it too slow!
Alright, shall we talk about the characters? I loved Duncan. He wasn’t what I expected at all. He wasn’t as jaded as I expected but he was so damn sweet to Joe....more Loving Lady Marcia was a good read. I really enjoyed it. The plot was simple and rather straightforward but it kept me hooked from start to finish. I literally could not put the book down. The characters were entertaining and I really liked reading about them. The pace was also great for the book, not too fast but neither was it too slow!
Alright, shall we talk about the characters? I loved Duncan. He wasn’t what I expected at all. He wasn’t as jaded as I expected but he was so damn sweet to Joe. You can’t help but love a hero that is so nice to children. Furthermore, I loved how he continued to chase after Marcia. Everything he did showed his love for her.
As for Marcia, I felt that she was a very interesting heroine. While she tried to be practical and all, there was always a little part of her that wanted to let go of everything and just fall in love. Most importantly, she was real and that made her all the more likable to me. I liked the fact that she had a mind of her own and yes, that she was stubborn. It gave her more character and I do enjoy that about a person. I loved how she is so strong, and how she managed to stand up even after what had happened all those years ago.
Plot wise, I really did enjoy it. It was the perfect pace and the tone was good too. I enjoyed meeting the characters and while I didn’t exactly have the personal connection to them, I could relate to them and that’s usually good enough!
However, I felt that the book didn’t make much of an impact on me. Sure, it was great reading it. But now, a couple weeks later, as I’m writing this review, I realise that I don’t remember much of the story. Then again, this could be just me. There were some parts that were really sweet!
Also, I didn’t really enjoy the last few bits of the book. I felt that it didn’t give a proper ending to the book. I’m a stickler for such things, given that it’s my final impression of the book. The final plot twist was also a little awkward to me. I didn’t really see the point in putting it in there. Some plot turns didn’t really make sense either, it felt forced.
All in all though, I really did enjoy this book. Though there were parts that I didn’t really enjoy, the rest of the book certainly did make up for it. And I want to apologise for this review. I don’t know why, but the words aren’t flowing, I know I’m certainly not giving a very good review, or at least, it isn’t up to my usual standard!

Disclaimer: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received.
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Aug 28, 2012 Dalene rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012

I chose to read this book as I love historical romance. At the very beginning of the book, I was was completely taken in. The story was very intriguing and had me at the edge of the seat. It had a great introduction to the characters and the set-up was very well done. However, once the story continued, about halfway I felt as if the story just continued. There weren’t a lot of high and low points. I would definitely give 5 stars to the first third to half of the book, and 3 stars to the rest of...more

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Aug 28, 2012 Shauni rated it 3 of 5 stars

Loving Lady Marcia was a wonderful book full of tongue in cheek humor and a great story. Ms Kramer managed to take one of today's societies favorite cultural images and transpose it into regency England. What a great mind. I loved that Kieran did this.

Throughout the book there were witty reminders of the Brady Bunch and yet we never got lost in the comparisons. It was a wicked way to show us that the more things change, the more they stay the same. That family is family no matter when and that t...more Loving Lady Marcia was a wonderful book full of tongue in cheek humor and a great story. Ms Kramer managed to take one of today's societies favorite cultural images and transpose it into regency England. What a great mind. I loved that Kieran did this.

Throughout the book there were witty reminders of the Brady Bunch and yet we never got lost in the comparisons. It was a wicked way to show us that the more things change, the more they stay the same. That family is family no matter when and that the ties that create a family are not always those of blood. As a matter of fact with her subtle wit she proved it over and over again. First with the Brady clan, a true family created as we all know by two parents coming together and loving the others children. Then again, she proved it with the dissension in the hero's family. Brothers, yet not family.

Lady Marcia has a secret, at 15 she fell in love and succumbed to that love, to the disreputable Finn.. While she was mature for 15 she was still just a child and had no clue as to how to deal with him. When he left her, blaming his older brother she was convinced her future was now forever changed and she chose to remain at her school and eventually become the headmistress. When, spite, envy and just a little greed gets her fired she is once again set adrift. This time she has to learn to lean on her family and yes on the horrible brother of the "wonderful" Finn. The one who ruined her chance at love the first time.

As the story continues we, of course, are shown just how lacking in honor her beloved Finn is. Marcia has to let go of childish memories and learn just what it really is that makes a man.

Duncan, Earl of Chadwick.. a man born to clean up his brother's messes. All he wants it to have the family he dreams of. A brother he can relate to, a friend. And yet he is saddled with a spoilt child who does what he wants to whomever he wants and expects Duncan to clean it up. When Duncan meets Marcia years after escorting her to a family wedding in Ireland, he realizes that she is a bright and shining light in a dismal world and he falls hard. Only she wants nothing to do with him and he has no idea why. When he finally realizes what Finn had done to her, he in true hero fashion runs to the rescue.

Watching these two fall for each other, scale their obstacles and learn that their love can create the family they so desire is a joy. I completely enjoyed this book. Ms Kramer has a great grasp on what makes people tick. Her villains are people that we know.. people we still see in society.. the fickle self-centered vain individuals who just want more. These are not hamfasted, heavy theatrical characters rather ones each of us can understand and relate to. The secondary characters offer up a teasing taste of what the rest of the series is going to offer us. I for one can't wait to see how Ms Kramer places the rest of the Brady family into her world..

Shauni

For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy (less)

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Jul 01, 2012 Farrah rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

Loving Lady Marcia was sweet and adorable. I loved just about every part of it and it was amazing.

Lady Marcia was a different character. She is headmistress of a prominent school and she is entirely dedicated to her job. It was admirable how she cared so much about the school and its students. She was a lovely character, smart, kind, and forgiving. The one part of her I didn't like was the part that was so quick to ju...more This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

Loving Lady Marcia was sweet and adorable. I loved just about every part of it and it was amazing.

Lady Marcia was a different character. She is headmistress of a prominent school and she is entirely dedicated to her job. It was admirable how she cared so much about the school and its students. She was a lovely character, smart, kind, and forgiving. The one part of her I didn't like was the part that was so quick to jump at hating Duncan. To everyone else she was fair. But she was quick to judge with Duncan. To an extent, I understood. I mean, she thought that Duncan was the reason for her heartbreak with his brother. But at some parts, I just couldn't understand how this otherwise kind woman was so mean spirited with Duncan. It frustrated me a little. But besides that, she was a wonderful character.

Duncan was just amazing. I adored him. He was very sweet to Marcia, even when she was less than kind. He was understanding, and thoughtful, and just wonderful. He kind of reminded me a bit of Mr. Darcy. I kept picturing him as the Mr. Darcy played by Matthew McFayden. It was the way the he seemed reserved and cold at first, but when you get to know him, he's sweet and adorable. Of course, I LOVE Mr. Darcy, so the comparison to him only made me like Duncan even more. I loved his character and I loved him and Marcia together. A sweeter couple you will never find.

Finn, Duncan's brother, was one of the best antagonists I've seen. He's handsome and charming. But he seduces anyone without worry of consequences, leaving behind broken hearts, bastard children, and ruined reputations. You can be absolutely charmed by him one minute and absolutely hate him the next. He was a fun character.

The story was original. I've seen a lot of different historical romances, but this one is unique among the rest. It was fast-paced with a lovely ending. I was so happy that Marcia and Duncan got their happy ending. BTW, for those who like to know, there's not a lot of...rated R content. There is one scene, but this book isn't packed with them, which could either be a disappointment or a relief, depending on how you see it. Now, I would love to see the stories of the next Brady girls :)

So, Loving Lady Marcia was delightful. I loved it!

5/5

Thanks to Netgalley for a copy! (less)

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Jun 10, 2012 WinieP rated it 4 of 5 stars

4 stars for "Loving Lady Marcia" by Kieran Kramer. I received an ARC of Loving Lady Marcia, with no obligation whatsoever for any review, positive or otherwise.

At 15, Lady Marcia believed a perfect life could be had, with breathtaking sunsets and perfect love. On her 16th birthday, she gave her heart and body to the one she considered her true love. The day after her birthday, her heart and life was irretrievably broken. The cause, she thought, was Lord Chadwick, the cold-hearted brother of her...more 4 stars for "Loving Lady Marcia" by Kieran Kramer. I received an ARC of Loving Lady Marcia, with no obligation whatsoever for any review, positive or otherwise.

At 15, Lady Marcia believed a perfect life could be had, with breathtaking sunsets and perfect love. On her 16th birthday, she gave her heart and body to the one she considered her true love. The day after her birthday, her heart and life was irretrievably broken. The cause, she thought, was Lord Chadwick, the cold-hearted brother of her love, who sent him thousands of miles away to America.
Four years later… Lady Marcia is leading a fulfilled life as the headmistress of a girls' school, and still determined to remain single, while Lord Chadwick sees her again and finds her fascinating.
I adored the hero, and almost all the principal characters in this book, except the villains.
The villains in the story: the golden-haired and golden-tongue Casanova of a first lover, returned from America to stir things up, and the former classmate & Mean Girl (now also grownup and meaner as the wealthy patron and employer of Lady Marcia's beloved girls' school).
There were no laugh out loud moments in the book for me, but grins and many smiles. Very likable characters in a loving supportive family, and unexpected kindness, brought out the smiles.
The only slightly off thing was the first sex scene between the hero and heroine, as I thought, Oh myy! Really? She learned all that!? from her previous first experience? in one night, with her also rather young lover?
I'm not sure why Kieran Kramer decided to base the new series on the Brady Brunch, even using the same names and family structure. Being of a certain age, I remember the old TV show, or at least the show's theme song, but the show may be unfamiliar to most people now. If there are any copyright problems with the old TV show, KK should be able to change the names, and just have the new series be about a really loving family (like JQ's Bridgertons). The blurb on the back of book indicates the series will be about the girls in the family, but I liked the boys, or young men, in the family well enough, or more, to hope for their future stories.
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Aug 28, 2012 Lissette rated it 4 of 5 stars

Ever since Lady Marcia Brady lay eyes on Finnian Lattimore, she's known he's the one. With his boyish good looks and piercing blue eyes, he stirs her passion in ways that leave her mind-boggled as to what she's feeling. Granted, she's never known anything of the like before, but she's willing to bet that love is what she feels for him with every bone of her body. Her heart tells her he's a good man and she's willing to give him the benefit of a doubt, he's Lord Chadwick's brother, after all. Yet...more Ever since Lady Marcia Brady lay eyes on Finnian Lattimore, she's known he's the one. With his boyish good looks and piercing blue eyes, he stirs her passion in ways that leave her mind-boggled as to what she's feeling. Granted, she's never known anything of the like before, but she's willing to bet that love is what she feels for him with every bone of her body. Her heart tells her he's a good man and she's willing to give him the benefit of a doubt, he's Lord Chadwick's brother, after all. Yet when a spontaneous decision changes her life within the blink of an eye, she wishes she never put her hand in the cookie jar, in the first place.

Swearing off of men for the rest of her life, Marcia immerses herself in her new role as headmistress of Oak Hall. She enjoys teaching and seeing her charges grow up to become wonderful ladies. It's the one thing that never disappoints her. The one thing she knows she'll enjoy doing for the rest of her life. Lady Ennis, unfortunately, has other ideas.

Marcia soon finds herself immersed in the life she left behind so long ago. The thought of coming out frightens her as she has no wish to seek out a husband. Yet she knows that if she's to please her parents, she'll need to do exactly what they want her to do if she's to get them off her back completely.

Encountering the beautiful Lady Marcia while out and about one day, Duncan Lattimore finds himself attracted to the little beauty in ways he'd never imagined. He remembers her from years ago and always thought he'd treated her with the respect she was due. When she reveals that he was anything but charming, he soon realizes he needs to set the record straight in order to get her to see the real man hiding inside of him. Marcia, unfortunately, refuses to make that easy for him.

In her mind, Duncan is a rogue. He's cold and callous and she doesn't need his attentions. He's also rumored to be a father, something the Ton finds quite appalling since it makes him a single father. Part of her wants to give him the benefit of a doubt, while the other yearns to bask in the glory of his arms. Granted, he's rich, handsome, and every bit good-looking. She's attracted to him and he knows it, but if she's to remain the lady that she is, she'll need to keep herself at bay when he's around. Her mind and her heart, though, refuse to see reason.

When Finnian unexpectedly returns to London, Marcia finds herself in turmoil. Her heart remembers every moment they spent together so long ago. Part of her can't forget those moments and she wonders what it would be like to have him as a suitor once more. She knows she has a chance at finding happiness and wants to do just that. Unfortunately, there's something she never quite counted upon. Lord Chadwick has drawn her attention, spurring her desires in ways she could only dream of, making her yearn for things she knows she shouldn't want.

This was quite a delightful story. I honestly enjoy historicals and think Kieran did a very good job in setting the stage for her characters. I found the tension and passions between Marcia and Duncan very stirring and endearing. Finn wasn't one to be left behind and made sure to make his mark as he sought to establish himself within a world he'd left behind so long ago. This story is definitely worth re-reading and I look forward to do doing so again sometime soon. (less)

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Oct 05, 2012 Emily rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: betrayal, fiesty-heroine, genre-historical, rake, series

After falling over in love with her handsome traveling partner, Lady Marcia Brady is willing to give up everything to be with him. Only his interfering brother Earl Duncan Lattimore sends him away and leaving Marcia with a broken heart that will never heal. Duncan knew that his brother Finn would trample on the young girls heart, he warned her away but the young innocent refused his advice.

Years later Duncan sees Lady Marcia and wants to reestablish a connection with her, only he finds that she...more

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Aug 29, 2012 Kayla Beck rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-release, historical-fiction, review-request, review-tour, romance, mature, 2012-read, humor

Review originally posted on Bibliophilia, Please.

Loving Lady Marcia is the first book in Kieran Kramer's new Regency series, The House of Brady. It is a light-hearted adult romance that is inspired by situations in the beloved American sitcom, "The Brady Bunch". The main focus of the book is Lady Marcia Brady's romance first with Finnian Lattimore, and then later his brother, Duncan Lattimore, Earl of Chadwick.

The Writing of Loving Lady Marcia was typical for the adult Modern Regency novel, if...more

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Jul 20, 2012 Caz rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 4-5-stars, romance-regency, kindle

This was a very enjoyable read - although I have to admit, I initially found myself enjoying it almost against my better judgement! Which sounds odd, I know, but I tend to prefer my romance to have just enough plausibility so that I'm not rolling my eyes at situations that just couldn't have happened at the time the story is set. So I have to start out by saying that the idea that a twenty-year-old young woman of good family and fortune could be Headmistress of a girls' school did stretch my cre...more This was a very enjoyable read - although I have to admit, I initially found myself enjoying it almost against my better judgement! Which sounds odd, I know, but I tend to prefer my romance to have just enough plausibility so that I'm not rolling my eyes at situations that just couldn't have happened at the time the story is set. So I have to start out by saying that the idea that a twenty-year-old young woman of good family and fortune could be Headmistress of a girls' school did stretch my credibility rather far. Had Marcia been older and spinsterish perhaps, or had she had to work for a living, perhaps it might not have been as great a stretch. Another niggle was the way in which, despite the fact Marcia kept telling herself how much she disliked Duncan because of his sending his brother away years before - she lets him kiss her on several separate occasions without so much as a remonstrance or slap in the face! Admittedly, Duncan is absolutely lovely and I certainly wouldn't object to a snog or two! - but Marcia's very willing participation made her dislike of him very hard to believe. Mind you, the kissing scenes are well-executed and wonderfully drenched in sexual tension.

So those are the things that I found a bit jarring in the book. The rest of it, however, was very good indeed. Duncan is a wonderful hero. He's an honourable and decent man; he's handsome, caring and funny - and dangerously sexy. He plays the piano and sings (not something one often comes across in the hero of a romance!) and likes reading books aloud to his staff! He's one of life's "fixers" - he takes care of people and things in a way that (we learn late in the book) he was never taken care of himself. The two principal recipiants of Duncan's "help" are his son Joe (who is really his nephew) and his brother, Finn, who is an all round bounder and first-class cad. Finn is a mother's worst nightmare - gorgeous, charming and totally unscrupulous, but Duncan can't write him off, despite his selfish ways, because he's his younger brother and he wants him to make something of himself.

Marcia is a likeable heroine. Having been seduced and abandoned by Finn on the night of her sixteenth birthday, she doesn't follow the normal pattern for a girl of her status and make her come-out and find herself a husband. Instead, she becomes a teacher and subsequently Headmistress of a small girls' school, and absolutely adores it.

The romance between Marcia and Duncan evolves at a steady pace throughout the book. I really liked the way that they support each other through trying times, even before they have admitted how they feel about each other. Duncan's relationship with Joe is similarly well done - he's obviously a great dad, and the fact that he is willing to bear the censure of polite society because he has acknowledged his illegitimate 'son' speaks volumes as to his character and the importance he places on family in his life.

Which is probably just as well, because by the end of the novel, he's acquired a rather large family - a nineteenth century version of The Brady Bunch! Marcia's family is warm and loving, and even the youngest members are well-characterised. As this is the first book in a series, I'm sure we'll be treated to the rest of their stories, and I'm certainly looking forward to them.

With thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the review copy.(less)

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Oct 24, 2012 Pam rated it 4 of 5 stars

Lady Marcia Sherwood is the daughter of a Marquess and at fifteen she is in love with Mr. Finn Lattimore. Along with Finn’s brother Duncan (Lord Chadwick) the three embark on a journey to Dublin to meet up with Marcia’s parents. After arriving they spent two weeks in Dublin and on the night of her sixteenth birthday, Finn and Marcia share an evening together and she goes to sleep believing she is in love.

The very next day Finn is shipped off to American and when Marcia receives a letter from Fin...more Lady Marcia Sherwood is the daughter of a Marquess and at fifteen she is in love with Mr. Finn Lattimore. Along with Finn’s brother Duncan (Lord Chadwick) the three embark on a journey to Dublin to meet up with Marcia’s parents. After arriving they spent two weeks in Dublin and on the night of her sixteenth birthday, Finn and Marcia share an evening together and she goes to sleep believing she is in love.

The very next day Finn is shipped off to American and when Marcia receives a letter from Finn she believes that Lord Chadwick sent him on purpose to keep them apart. She is devastated and vows to never fall in love again. Five years later Marcia is the headmistress of an all girls school and although loves her job she still has feelings for Finn.

While in London shopping for some new items for the school she meets Lord Chadwick again and still believing the worst of him gives him the cold shoulder. As she is visiting her parent’s home, she gets the news that Lady Ennis the benefactor of the school is firing her and Marcia is now without a job. Her parents are ecstatic as now they can plan for a Season and find her a husband.

Duncan has been cleaning up problems that Finn has caused all his life, including raising his son that Duncan has grown to love. Duncan has always been attracted to Marcia and was just starting to court her when Finn comes back and Duncan finds out just what else he will have to fix that Finn damaged years ago. Duncan must convince Marcia of the type of man Finn is as well as letting her know how he feels for her.

This was a fun book and the fact that it uses all the characters from the television show The Brady Bunch is even better. You can see the characteristics of all the family members we grew up with including the housekeeper Alice. Marcia and Duncan were delightful and the chemistry was convincing. There are laugh out loud moments as well as tender ones dealing with Duncan's adopted son. There are several tense moments when Finn again causes trouble and they wonder if he will forever be a pain in their lives. Very enjoyable read and I can't wait for Greg's story.
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Aug 14, 2012 Melody May rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, romance, historical

Originally posted at What I'm Reading

As a kid, I would stay up late watching TV, especially on Nickelodeon which would turn into Nick at Night. This is where I got my first glimpse of The Brady Bunch. I can still hear the opening of theme song. With that all said, I'm so excited that Kieran Kramer has paid homage to an iconic TV family and wrote a regency version of the Brady Bunch.

So, let's meet the first book in Kieran's new series The House of Brady, Loving Lady Marcia:

Lady Marcia Sherwood is...more Originally posted at What I'm Reading

As a kid, I would stay up late watching TV, especially on Nickelodeon which would turn into Nick at Night. This is where I got my first glimpse of The Brady Bunch. I can still hear the opening of theme song. With that all said, I'm so excited that Kieran Kramer has paid homage to an iconic TV family and wrote a regency version of the Brady Bunch.

So, let's meet the first book in Kieran's new series The House of Brady, Loving Lady Marcia:

Lady Marcia Sherwood is perfect in every way. Even perfect girls make mistakes, but hers cost her virtue. With that kind of price Marcia decides to forgo her season and become a teacher at the school she has been attending.

Duncan Lattimore, the Earl of Chadwick, tries so hard to fix the world's problem or at least his brother's screw ups. Especially, when he finds out what he done to Marcia all those years ago. Now he's trying to rectify the situation, but Marcia wants nothing to do with him. Why would she when she believes Duncan is the reason his brother left her? Funny how life is not what it seems.

Don't you love when a hero tries to take on the world and make it a better place? If you do, you will love Duncan Lattimore. He's the perfect hero and possible the perfect match for Marcia.

For all those who loved the The Brady Bunch growing up, you are going to love Kieran's new series The House of Brady. And if you are like me, you will notice some bits and pieces from the show modify to fit the regency period.

Just to let you know, I LOVED this book and I'm super excited to see more from The House of Brady. Loving Lady Marcia is a fun and animated read, which you should check out when it comes out in two weeks.

However, if you want to know more about Kieran's new book, she is doing her blog tour the rest of the month and you can check out all the blogs that she will be attending by going to her website: http://kierankramerbooks.com/tour/

Plus she is offering some super cute stuff.

ARC provide by NetGalley(less)

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Aug 20, 2012 Redheaded Bookworm rated it 3 of 5 stars

I usually don't read Historical Romance, but this book sounded like it had potential. Was I right? YES. I really enjoyed Loving Lady Marcia. The characters were very likable and real. And I really got a kick out of it, when I finally realized The Brady Bunch was the "back story" for this book. When we first meet Marcia, she is young and dislikes Duncan, who is your stodgy Earl. She quickly falls for his brother, Finn who breaks her heart and blames it on Duncan. Fast forward years later when Dun...more

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Oct 18, 2012 Amanda rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, read-in-2012

The super cheese factor of the whole Brady bunch theme (which is mostly not important other than when Marcia gets hit in the face with a ball at some point - a low point in the story to me), I did really like this.

I absolutely loved Duncan - he was great. He was determined to have Marcia as his, but was cautious in a way as well. Duncan really made the story for me, with all the responsibility he had on his shoulders while still being able to be an amazing father. He was serious but was able to...more

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Aug 20, 2012 Cocktails and Books rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tour, historical-romance, 2012-reading-challenges

If the fact that the heroine's name is Marcia and her father's title has Brady in it has you thinking this is going to be a cheesy take off of some Brady Bunch episode, you'd be wrong. Sure, there are some similarities between the TV Brady's and those in the book, but there is no comparing the TV Marcia with the strong and independent Lady Marcia Sherwood.

Lady Marcia Sherwood and Duncan Lattimore, the Earl of Chadwick, meet as he and his brother, Finn, escort Marcia to Ireland. Finn is fun lovin...more If the fact that the heroine's name is Marcia and her father's title has Brady in it has you thinking this is going to be a cheesy take off of some Brady Bunch episode, you'd be wrong. Sure, there are some similarities between the TV Brady's and those in the book, but there is no comparing the TV Marcia with the strong and independent Lady Marcia Sherwood.

Lady Marcia Sherwood and Duncan Lattimore, the Earl of Chadwick, meet as he and his brother, Finn, escort Marcia to Ireland. Finn is fun loving, entertaining and attentive to Marcia, while Duncan is standoffish and pensive on their journey. While Marcia and Finn haven't a care in the world, Duncan contemplates his newly obtained title and what he is going to do to restore the Earldom. So it's no surprise Marcia and Finn strike up an immediate friendship which soon turns into something more, including devastating heartbreak.

Duncan and Marcia lives took a decidedly different paths after that fateful trip to Ireland. Marcia took the only course she thought she could after what happened with Finn and became the Headmistress of the school she attended. She's sworn off romantic entanglements for the security of caring for "her girls". But what she really lost that summer was the belief that someone could want her the way her stepfather wants/loves her mother. When she was tossed so easily aside, she figured no one would ever want her. To save herself any grief, she decided to close herself off at the school. But Duncan opened her eyes and showed her that she could be loved for who she was, which included her ideals and aspirations.

Duncan is a fixer. He tried to protect his mother from his father's infidelities, tried to help Finn grow up and become a better man, and tried to make a home full of love for his son, Joe, himself and his servants. He craved the love of those he felt close to and longed to have anyone of those he held dear tell him they loved him in return. Duncan had to learn he couldn't fix everyone or fix a situation for those he cared for. He had to let go of those that truly didn't deserve his affection and focus on those that did and realize they would love him even if he or they failed.

Duncan and Marcia didn't have the easiest path to their HEA. Their demons were their own worst enemy, but in the end the discovered their relationship worked much better when the words were said rather than hoping someone understood their actions.

A wonderful start to the House of Brady series. I can't wait for the next book.(less)

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Aug 28, 2012 Misty rated it 4 of 5 stars

Leave it to Kieran Kramer to write a regency twist to the Brady Bunch! Kramer has a natural knack for penning fantastic romances that can be tied back to pop culture. In Loving Lady Marcia the author once more does not disappoint. Out of three sisters, Lady Marcia seems to live a charmed life. At the tender age of fifteen Lady Marcia fancies herself in love with Finn the young and reckless rake. After devastating news that her true love has been shipped off to greener pastures, Lady Marcia retre...more

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Jan 01, 2013 Barbara rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-2012, romance-regency

Another wonderful book by this new author. It continues/parallels the first book in the series. This is Roland's and Lilbet's story but the characters are the same, the setting, etc. but the parallel story is told from their perspective. Roland was in love with her years ago and she with him. He was also a fledgling spy and when sent on a mission he left Liliabet without notice. Due to family pressures she married another man. Now six years later they meet in Italy where she is trying to hide fr...more

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Aug 18, 2012 Danielle rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: review

Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick

I really enjoyed this book. I thought that it was a cute read and I really liked the characters. Though while I did enjoy it, the similarities to the actual Brady Bunch show were a bit much at times. Instead of enjoying the nods to the iconic show, I just found it to be too much. Similarities to the show aside, I really liked the characters and the world that the author created. I liked that she took a different approach the both the hero and...more Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick

I really enjoyed this book. I thought that it was a cute read and I really liked the characters. Though while I did enjoy it, the similarities to the actual Brady Bunch show were a bit much at times. Instead of enjoying the nods to the iconic show, I just found it to be too much. Similarities to the show aside, I really liked the characters and the world that the author created. I liked that she took a different approach the both the hero and heroine. Both characters had depth and I liked the chemistry between them.

When Lady Marcia was sixteen she thought herself in love and gave her heart along with her virginity to the man she thought she was to marry, Finn Lattimore. Then just as quickly as she fell in love, Finn was gone. Sent to America by his overbearing older brother Lord Chadwick. Marcia has never gotten over the loss and despite her families wishes that she wed, she has spent her time at a girl's boarding school working as a head mistress. She knows that she can never wed and if anyone were to find out her secret, not only would she be ruined, but so would her family. While out on an errand for the school, Marcia runs into the man who ruined all of her dreams, Duncan Lattimore, Lord Chadwick. Marcia has never been able to forget or forgive Duncan for sending away Finn. It's because of Duncan that she wasn't able to wed Finn and she wants nothing to do with him

Duncan can hardly believe the woman Lady Marcia has turned into. Gone is the overly sweet and happy child he met four years ago. Now before him is a beautifully independent woman and Duncan finds himself fascinated with her. So much so that he chases her down the street just to talk with her. After their encounter, Duncan can't get Lady Marcia out of his head. He finds that he is fascinated by her and the attraction he feels towards her. He knows that she feels the sparks between them too and he will do everything that he can to persuade her to take a chance on him.

Marcia may feel the connection between them, but she can never marry, especially not to the brother of the man that ruined her. The more she tries to stay away from Duncan the harder it is. He's quickly becoming too much to resist and if she's not careful she could lose her heart to him and that is something she does not want to do.

I found that I really liked both characters. I loved that they both had flawed pasts and didn't really care what others thought of them. I love that Marcia is a head mistress at a girl's school. She's so different from your standard heroine. She truly cares about her students and their needs. But it doesn't stop there. She cares about everyone and I loved, loved, loved how she was with Duncan's son. She doesn't treat him differently just because he was born out of wedlock. She treats him like an equal. She is such a good natured and kind person.

As for Duncan, I LOVE him. He is truly the best of men and the relationship between him and his brother broke my heart. All he wants is what is best for his brother, and Finn continually craps on him. Duncan is constantly cleaning up after Finn and his messes even though everyone has told him to stop. He just can't help that he loves his brother and wants to help him. I found that so commendable. I also, loved his relationship with his son. He was so caring with him, it was just so sweet. Honestly, I can go on an on about how much I loved Duncan. Seriously, he was great.

Another thing that I enjoyed with this book was all of the secondary characters. I loved getting to know the rest of the Brady's and I honestly can't wait to see what's in store for the rest of the bunch.

**ARC copy provided by NetGalley**(less)

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Aug 28, 2012 E. rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, romance

"Loving Lady Marcia" by Kieran Kramer is a historical romance which is part of the `House of Brady' series. This entertaining homage to a certain 70`s television series is centered around Lady Marcia Sherwood who is the headmistress of a private school, despite her loving family's wish for an alternate lifestyle choice for her. Her five siblings have no idea that Marcia nurses a broken heart from a previous attachment but everyone is startled when Duncan Lattimore, Lord Chadwick, starts displayi...more

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Dec 14, 2012 Jennifer Delamere rated it 4 of 5 stars

I watched the Brady Bunch years ago, but I don't remember any of the episodes. (Some would say this was a good thing!) I was more than happy to take this book on its own merits. It was a fun read, even though it had a bit more depth and "angst" than I would have expected from a book inspired by the Brady Bunch. Given the Regency time period, many of Duncan's actions would have labeled him as eccentric at the very least (openly raising his brother's illegitimate son and treating his servants like...more

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Mar 23, 2013 Bonnie rated it 4 of 5 stars

This was fun. Honestly, if you think of it in fanfic-ish terms (Brady Bunch AU?), then its splendid and a bit cracky. If you think of it as a traditional historical romance that's anachronistic in bits - it's still very fun and quite good. If you like your historical romances traditional and so on - this is likely not the book for you.
The only truly traditional element in here - her father cracking the whip on getting her married - was a plot device that felt terribly out of place, forced, and...more

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Sep 27, 2012 Connie Fischer marked it as to-read

Lady Marcia is the oldest of the three sisters. When she was sixteen, she was seduced by Finn Lattimore. He had promised to run away with her and get married. Instead, he dumps her and leaves the area. Lady Marcia is heartbroken and thinks that she is now a ruined woman who could never be acceptable to any man. Thus, she finds a new life as the Headmistress of a girl's school and vowing never to marry. The owner of the school is an arrogant widow and a former classmate of Marcia's. She has decid...more

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Nov 04, 2012 The Window Seat added it

For those of us from Generation X there are certain common things we can all share about growing up. We remember the music, the clothes, and for people like me we definitely remember the television shows. Syndicated re-runs of shows like Gilligan’s Island and especially The Brady Bunch are so firmly entrenched in my memory that I always have a soft spot in my heart whenever I catch them today. It is with that same nostalgia to the “classics” that I went into Kieran Kramer’s latest book, Loving L...more

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Loving Lady Marcia (House of Brady #1)

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