Married by Morning

Oct 08, 2012 Dina rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, dik, to-blog

A Letter to Leo Hathaway, Viscount Ramsay

Dearest Leo,

Firstly, let me apologize in advance for being so forward as to write you this letter and for treating you with such familiarity. I am aware that you, a fine 19th-century gentleman, should be appalled with my boldness, but I am a 21st-century woman and we are no longer subjected to the restrictive dictates of society that ruled your time. As a Hathaway, I hope you will not only understand this but also be amused by it.

Now, I am ashamed to say...more

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Jun 21, 2010 Lady Danielle aka The Book Huntress rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: fans of historical romance

Shelves: historical-romance, part-of-a-series, victorian, owned-copy, favorite-or-autobuy-author, enemies-to-lovers, family, hero-in-pursuit, bad-boy-rake-or-rogue, deep-dark-secret, spinster-old-maid, governess-or-schoolmarm, favorites, reformed-rakes-make-the-best-hubbie, hero-to-die-for, heroine-i-adore, reluctant-heroine, tormented-heroine, animal-character-steals-the-show

Married by Morning was such a delightful book. It fully exceeded my high expectations. The sparks between Leo Hathaway, Lord Ramsay, and Catherine Marks in the prior Hathaway books promised good tension and a fun read, but Ms. Kleypas managed to draw on deep wells of emotion and passion in writing this story, that made it even fuller than I expected.

I had the feeling that Catherine would prove to be fairly tortured for a Kleypas heroine, and it turned out I was right. She had some deeply buried...more Married by Morning was such a delightful book. It fully exceeded my high expectations. The sparks between Leo Hathaway, Lord Ramsay, and Catherine Marks in the prior Hathaway books promised good tension and a fun read, but Ms. Kleypas managed to draw on deep wells of emotion and passion in writing this story, that made it even fuller than I expected.

I had the feeling that Catherine would prove to be fairly tortured for a Kleypas heroine, and it turned out I was right. She had some deeply buried issues, related to her abandonment by her father to the dubious care of her grandmother and aunt, and the heinous future they had planned for her. I was quite surprised at the terrible fate that Catherine barely avoided, and glad that her brother, Harry Rutledge, came to her rescue in time. But, his saving her wasn't soon enough for her to avoid the deep emotional trauma of what she suffered. Since that point, she has buried herself within the prim disguise of a spinster governess, although she isn't that much older than her charges, the younger Hathaway sisters, Poppy and Beatrix.

Leo Hathway was her Achilles' Heel, almost from the beginning. A strong, vital man who made her feel things she didn't want to feel. He represented what she thought she despised, but Leo proves to be the man for her. They trade insults freely, but underneath is a sizzling attraction that is more than obvious to the Hathaways.

I simply adored Leo in this book. He was the consummate hero in pursuit, in all the best ways. He is determined to woo Catherine and give her exactly what she needs: love, understanding, protection, and companionship. Because he realizes that she's the one woman for him, even though he vowed not to fall in love again after losing Laura. Catherine brings him to life, making him want her more than is prudent and convenient. And, in true form for him, he barely skirts society's rules chasing his reluctant heroine. I could see why Catherine was hesitant to accept Leo's proposal, with her past and what she suffered--even though I hoped she'd say yes to his proposal. Although Leo was frustrated that she continued to hold herself back, he didn't give up. I really admired him for that. I think Catherine needed a man who really focused on her, wooing her powerfully.

Leo was a dark horse in this series, although it shouldn't have been a surprise at how well he turned out as a hero. He went from the darkest depths of despair after the loss of his first love, turning into a dissolute rake bent on self-destruction. His sojourn in France gives him the time and space he needs to heal his broken heart and shattered soul. When he comes back, he's still a bit of a rake, completely irreverent and wicked in the things he says, but he finds a sense of purpose in taking care of his properties as Lord Ramsay, and occasionally doing architectural commissions, spending time with his family. When Ms. Marks shows up as the governess for his younger, unmarried sisters, he wonders why they hired such a buttoned-up, bitter hag. Yet, he finds himself unwittingly attracted to her. In fact, she becomes an obsession he cannot deny himself. When he finds out that he must marry to keep Ramsay house, he isn't eager to find a bride at first. But soon, his heart tells him that only one bride will do, Miss Marks. And Leo moves mountains and does the sweetest little things to prove his love. It made me sigh to see such a good woman who had been forsaken in many ways find a man who loved her so very much, and she loved in return.

This was a simple book, but rich in content. It has the characteristic, beautiful writing that makes Lisa Kleypas one of my favorite authors. It is very sensual, with the compelling attraction between Leo and Catherine. Stolen kisses that will melt your socks off, moments of intimacy full of passion, and a love that conquers both Leo and Catherine's reluctant hearts. I could not help but root for this couple. And of course, it's always lovely to catch up with the Hathaways, and their spouses. It feels like coming home. (less)

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Sep 11, 2010 Auntee rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Fans of the series; Fans of historicals where the H/h engage in wicked bantering

Shelves: historical-romance, lisa-kleypas, part-of-a-series, 2010_reads

Loved it. I knew I would, since I'm a sucker for the colorful Hathaway family. And Leo? I didn't have high hopes for him while reading the first in the series (Mine Till Midnight, but with each succeeding book, he kept growing on me, and growing on me...and finally by this book...*sigh*...he finally became a hero worthy of my admiration!:)

No plot summary this time, because there's some truly awesome reviews at GR for this one. I'll just add my thoughts/observations...

This was only brother Leo H...more

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Jun 28, 2010 Shawna rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Fans of Lisa Kleypas & anyone who loves a beautiful romance

Recommended to Shawna by: Me...'cause I love all of LK's books!

Shelves: historical-romance, lisa-kleypas, historical-romance-victorian, series-hathaways, brothers-sisters-cousins-family, rt-book-reviews-top-pick, library-available, hero-cad-rake-rogue‎-scoundrel, enemies-to-lovers-opposites-attract, favorite-romance-couple-hh-pairings, favorite-romance-series, favorites, hero-expert-skilled-voracious-lover, hero-bad-boy-playboy, hero-addict-excon-lawtrouble-thief, hero-i-wanna-marry, hero-im-gaga-over, heroine-abused-traumatic-past-rape, heroine-naïve-virgin-like-a-virgin, heroine-odd-spinster-wallflower, humorous-at-times-or-fluffy-fun, i-read-own-faves-keepers, why-do-good-girls-like-bad-boys, yowza-hotness, 2010-reads, best-top-favorites, hero-abused-scarred-tortured-angst, hero-mix-of-alpha-beta, hero-stud-mantel-hall-of-fame, hero-alpha‎, hero-stalk-me-baby-possessive, heroine-i-adore, heroine-chaperone-governess-teacher, animals-matter, favorite-love-scenes, best-faves-of-2010, aar-top-100-romances-2007-2010, 5-stars-or-higher, hero-redeems-himself-reformed, best-wittiest-banter-dialogue, heroine-destitute-poor, heroine-commoner-lower-class, mystery-intrigue-espionage-subplot, a-all-time-fave-hero, a-all-time-best-of-best-fave-dik, hero-flirt-charmer-ladies-man, a-all-time-best-top-50-fave-dik, hh-bespectacled, hero-affable-lovable-rogue, hero-or-heroine-illegitimate, masquerade-hide-your-face-identity, hh-on-the-run-in-hiding, heroine-makeover

5++ stars – Historical Romance

Oh Leo, Lord Ramsay, you devastatingly handsome, fiendishly charming, hysterically witty, and devilishly wicked man...keeping me up until the wee hours of the morning to finish reading your story rather than for the total ravishment and thorough tupping that I would have preferred from you!

I’ve loved every romance thus far in the ongoing, enchanting saga of the unconventional Hathaway family, Cam’s and Amelia’s spirited courtship in Mine Till Midnight, Kev’s and Wi...more 5++ stars – Historical Romance

Oh Leo, Lord Ramsay, you devastatingly handsome, fiendishly charming, hysterically witty, and devilishly wicked man...keeping me up until the wee hours of the morning to finish reading your story rather than for the total ravishment and thorough tupping that I would have preferred from you!

I’ve loved every romance thus far in the ongoing, enchanting saga of the unconventional Hathaway family, Cam’s and Amelia’s spirited courtship in Mine Till Midnight, Kev’s and Win’s emotional journey in Seduce Me at Sunrise, and Harry’s and Poppy’s tentative discovery of love in Tempt Me at Twilight, but Leo, Lord Ramsay’s and Catherine’s volatile, yet tender transition from bitter rivals to passionate lovers in the charming Married By Morning might just be my favorite of the series.

This is Kleypas at her most brilliant best...it’s utterly fantastic, flat-out phenomenal, sigh-worthy amazing, thoroughly romantic, and riveting from beginning to end. I loooved it and just couldn’t get enough of sinfully sexy, sweet scapegrace Leo, Lord Ramsay, who’s one of my all-time favorite Kleypas heroes.

I won’t go into the plot since the book description and some great reviews here on GR already summed it up nicely. I will say that Leo and Catherine, another powerhouse Kleypas couple, are absolute magic together and it’s a wonderful romance not to be missed. Leo is infectiously funny, amusing, and arousing, and I swear, it seemed like almost everything he says is quotable. Strong-willed, prickly, independent, stoic spinster Catherine might be his total opposite, but they’re also a perfect match. And throw a cunning, mischievous, fun-loving ferret named Dodger into the mix, and you’ve got a real winner!

It’s a lushly romantic read with remarkable, superbly crafted, and wonderfully alluring characters, an intriguing, unforgettable story, strong emotional depth, witty banter, laugh out loud humor, erotic sexual tension, and steamy passion that’s all blended together beautifully and perfectly paced.

Lisa Kleypas writes the most splendid, compelling, and lusciously sensual romances that always steal my heart and leave me breathless with pure rapture over the sheer wonderment of falling in love, and Married By Morning is another treasure for my keeper shelf! If you’re a fan of Kleypas and/or historical romance and haven’t yet read the delightful Wallflowers and Hathaways series, then what on earth are you waiting for?! Big, exuberant 5 stars!

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Aug 23, 2010 DarienMoya rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romances, 2010-reads, fave-books-of-2010, favorites

^^ JUST WONDERFUL!! ^^

If you are a fan of historical romance and you have not read The Hathaway series, then you are surely missing out. This series is positively one of the best and it should not be missed. Lisa Kleypas has done it again and every book in this series just gets better than the last, Leo has been a shining character in the previous books and he comes out blasting in his own book.

Leo Hathaway self proclaimed devil, he has the wit, charm and sex appeal to blow any female out of he...more ^^ JUST WONDERFUL!! ^^

If you are a fan of historical romance and you have not read The Hathaway series, then you are surely missing out. This series is positively one of the best and it should not be missed. Lisa Kleypas has done it again and every book in this series just gets better than the last, Leo has been a shining character in the previous books and he comes out blasting in his own book.

Leo Hathaway self proclaimed devil, he has the wit, charm and sex appeal to blow any female out of her skirts. He has been through his fair share of ups and down, and he knows he is lucky to be alive and kicking. There is only one person who gets under his cool façade and that is Catherine Marks, companion to his baby sister, and the prim and proper Marks gets under his skin. They fight like cat and dog and can never see to eye to eye. One thing they know for sure is that they hate each other, or so they say.

Seems Catherine might be the ying to Leo’s yang and its gonna be a joyride to prove how much they belong to each other. It comes as no surprise that their little squabbles make the book so feckin exciting, Leo’s quick wit is a force to be reckoned with, its always a laugh to hear the next thing that comes out of his mouth. Their love don’t come easy because Catherine has a sordid pass and she needs to face her demons in order to love Leo properly.

Seriously the sordid pass was so blah to me, I was like get over it already and take Leo’s pants off. I felt there was nothing for Catherine to feel remotely bad about, you had a bad childhood you can’t blame yourself for that, and Leo himself is practically a slut, come on. I still feel that Catherine doesn’t quite fit with Leo, but she is a likeable character and she does hold her own to the little devil that is Lord Ramsey. Together they could blow fish out of the water, their best scenes were the naked time. Miss Kleypas knows how to write a sex scene and its always a little bit wicked.

Book 4 might not be my favourite in the series but Leo is my fave character, god I love that man. The Hathaways is family not to be missed, they stand out from the aristocratic bunch, they are eccentric, funny and so lovable, every book in this series is a little bit of heaven. I give a big “ CHECK THIS SERIES OUT” you wont be disappointed. Please keep mop and bucket handy, extreme excitement in the pants is a side effect. Just remember to remain a Fookin lady!

"I don't care. I can't have a wife named Blossom. Every night I would feel as if I were calling in one of the cows".

Awww Leo you wonderful S.O.B!!!!

I can't wait to read the last book in the series, I just know its gonna be awesome.(less)

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Jun 23, 2010 UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, historical-romance, author-lisa-kleypas, romance-historical, 2010-reads, animal-steals-the-show, 5-stars, captive-kidnapped, historical-romance-series, top-couples-of-all-time, gypsy-rom-roma, reviewed-by-me

I hope you’ll be able to look past the cheesiness of this review and be able to understand what it is I’m feeling, even though I can’t quite find the words to eloquently express my thoughts about Married by Morning in a way that will do it justice.

This was simply one of the most delightful books I’ve read in a very long time. I had no doubt that I’d like it, as I do most all of Lisa Kleypas’ books, but this far exceeded my expectations! Leo Hathaway, Lord Ramsay and Catherine Marks, Governess, m...more
I hope you’ll be able to look past the cheesiness of this review and be able to understand what it is I’m feeling, even though I can’t quite find the words to eloquently express my thoughts about Married by Morning in a way that will do it justice.

This was simply one of the most delightful books I’ve read in a very long time. I had no doubt that I’d like it, as I do most all of Lisa Kleypas’ books, but this far exceeded my expectations! Leo Hathaway, Lord Ramsay and Catherine Marks, Governess, made this book impossible to put down with their constant banter and obvious, though not to each other, affection for one another.

In the previous books in this series, we see that after the death of his fiancé, Laura Dillard and his own brush with death, Leo gradually stopped living, rather, falling into a mere existence of deadly vices and debauchery. His family tried to help him, but it became clear that he didn’t want help. He wanted to die. Having hit rock bottom, Cam Rohan, his brother-in-law, was at last able to reach Leo in the darkness he’d enveloped himself in and finally, finally, the Leo that everyone knew and loved began to resurface. But as is often the case, I believe the overwhelming grief of the loss of his beloved Laura had left him forever changed. Although death was no longer something he wished for, he spent too much time and money in gambling halls and just as much time and money on women. He was bitter, cynical and immoral – all the things that Catherine despised in a man.

Catherine Marks had her own tragic past, one she’d been running from for many years. Having been fortunate enough to find work as a governess for the Hathaways, she was given her first glimpse into what being a part of a real family felt like, even though they weren’t hers. She stood on the outside watching the love between the siblings and their spouses knowing that this was as close as she would come to ever having a family of her own. Prim, proper, secretive and unyielding, she was all the things Leo hated in a woman.

So, we’ve watched them spar, compete, and try to outdo each other, barely able to tolerate one another. That is, until they got their own story and, in the heat of an argument found such passion in one kiss that all the animosity, all the bitterness fell away, laying the foundation for a truce that should at least keep them from wanting to throttle each other. Or so you'd think.

Finding humor in the direst of circumstances, Leo constantly caught me off guard with his comments, making me laugh out loud. He doesn’t take many things seriously, especially himself, probably a result of the self imposed hell he’d spent too many years living in. Watching as one by one, layer after layer, Leo’s defenses fall away allowing Catherine deeper and deeper into his heart, was so gratifying for me. I loved his realization that he could love someone besides Laura, and that he himself could be loved. And Catherine, coming to trust Leo, and seeing past the armor of indifference he had sheltering his heart, was just incredibly uplifting. And please don’t laugh at me, but I felt like, in Catherine, I was watching a flower opening, with its delicate petals unfolding to soak up and bask in the sun’s warming rays, and that sun was called Leo. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book in which two characters were so totally opposite and yet, so perfectly matched. And very few authors can pull this off, but Lisa Kleypas does it with consistency, giving us characters that we see as real people with needs.

And I’d be remiss if, before ending this review, I didn’t mention the very brave, ever loyal Dodger, who came to Catherine’s defense by biting a bad guy, and receiving a severe blow in the process. I’m even more convinced that he deserves his own book.

Married by Morning has become one of my all time favorite books and Leo and Catherine one of my all time favorite couples. And there’s no doubt, if I could choose to have my life written by anyone at all, it would be Lisa Kleypas. What I wouldn’t give to be one of her characters, because even through the most difficult of times, you always know you’re going to come out on the other side happier, stronger and unconditionally loved.
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May 30, 2010 Rane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: keeper

At the start of the The Hathaways series, I will admit, I really disliked Leo. He was such a self-center baby, and didn’t care the damage he was doing to his family whom loved him. At the same time I was curious at what LK planned for him. Slowly she reveled the Leo whom has faced his demons and is walking out of the shadows. And by Seduce Me at Sunrise and Tempt Me at Twilight, I was looking forward to his and Cat story. And with the cliffhanger at the end of TMAT, I was a little leery it woul...more At the start of the The Hathaways series, I will admit, I really disliked Leo. He was such a self-center baby, and didn’t care the damage he was doing to his family whom loved him. At the same time I was curious at what LK planned for him. Slowly she reveled the Leo whom has faced his demons and is walking out of the shadows. And by Seduce Me at Sunrise and Tempt Me at Twilight, I was looking forward to his and Cat story. And with the cliffhanger at the end of TMAT, I was a little leery it wouldn’t stack up, but my fears were for not, as I was quickly wrapped up with Leo and Cat’s foes to lovers story.

This story was thankfully dead aim focus on Cat and Leo with the rest of the Hathaways well and truly in the background, not so much in the foreground like the first three books. It was great to see glimpse of everyone and how much love the Hathaways had for one another, but I was happy that stayed in the background.

The foreshadowing was hinted about Cat for awhile, but everything is finally reveled about her hard past. It’s not a super-sweet past either, but tough and sad for one so young. You understand her actions toward Leo in the beginning, and her banter/fighting with him makes sense. I really enjoyed the character Cat, and her no-nonsense ways, and how she always seem to put Leo in his place with a few choice words or a look. She also had a big heart which she hid for so long, and the need for love and family. Both she finally found with Leo and the Hathaways and her brother. The one problem I did have with Cat is her always running away. Cat always came off as strong even in the face of danger, which she shows when she comes face to face with her past. This running away made me annoyed with her. Thankfully Leo and Dodger are right behind her.

Leo is the biggest surprise for me through the Hathaway series (so far) I didn’t like him, but through MBM I was head over heels in love with him. Leo was scared of losing to love again, and really didn’t want to go through that again, but the pull between him and Cat was so strong, he knew he would never let her go. Leo was dogmatic in his pursuit of Cat, and every hot and funny moment was pure bliss. I enjoyed every moment of these two, and wanted more,More,MORE!

Leo and Cat has a lot of things that caused them to run, but finding love in one another, they finally stopped running from one another, and running toward each other. I was so happy to see their HEA and by the end of this book, I was still in bliss.

Overall: a wonderful/awesome addition to the Hathaways series, Leo and Cat (and Dodger!) were just down right perfect from start to finish. I could go on and on about how much I love this book, but will contain and say, it was a joy to read. I can’t wait for the last installment of this wonderful series! (less)

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Apr 18, 2013 Ronyell rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: LK fans!!!

Shelves: adult-books, best-books-of-2011, book-series, books-i-want-to-own, british-hero-or-heroine, chapter-books, cult-classic, drama, english-books, family-situations, favorites, historical-romance, humor-satire, lisa-kleypas, manners, mystery, read-in-2011, reviewed-books, ronyell-s-epinions-reviews, sexy-bad-boy-hero, sexy-tough-heroine, strong-hero, strong-heroine, aar-top-100-romance-books-2010, my-blog-reviews

After reading Tempt Me at Twilight, I was dying to read the next book in the series, “Married by Morning” and I was so glad to get the chance to read this little gem of a novel! This time, it is Leo Hathaway’s turn to fall in love and what other person could he ever fall in love with than the Hathaways’ uptight paid companion, Catherine Marks! As usual in all of the “Hathaway” series, this novel is filled with drama, mystery, suspense and hot sizzling romance that will have any romance novel fan...more After reading Tempt Me at Twilight, I was dying to read the next book in the series, “Married by Morning” and I was so glad to get the chance to read this little gem of a novel! This time, it is Leo Hathaway’s turn to fall in love and what other person could he ever fall in love with than the Hathaways’ uptight paid companion, Catherine Marks! As usual in all of the “Hathaway” series, this novel is filled with drama, mystery, suspense and hot sizzling romance that will have any romance novel fan vying for more hot stuff out of the romance!

For the past two years, Catherine Marks has been the paid companion to the Hathaway sisters and even though she gets along quite nicely with them, she is always arguing constantly with the older Hathaway brother and lord of the estate, Leo Hathaway. One terrible day however, the Hathaways received a letter from the original owners of the Ramsay estate telling the Hathaway family that they will take the estate away from them unless Leo marries someone and produces an heir within a year to save the estate. Can Leo find someone to marry before time runs out and does Catherine truly love Leo?

Wonderful, wonderful work Lisa Kleypas! Lisa Kleypas has certainly done an excellent job at writing a story full of drama, mystery and sizzling romance which made this novel worthwhile for any romance novel fan! I also loved the character development that Lisa Kleypas incorporates into her characters as I truly sympathize with their situations and it was also nice seeing all of the Hathaway family together again and the mischievous antics they get into. But the two characters that I was most fond of were Catherine Marks and Leo Hathaway as they were the two most unusual yet interesting hero and heroine I have ever read about. Catherine Marks was an extremely interesting heroine as she has plenty of spunk and independence that put anyone to shame, but she also harbors a dark past that makes her distant towards any kind of men, especially towards Leo and it was that part of Catherine’s personality that I found the most interesting about her character since I rarely read about heroines whose dark pasts makes them have trouble trusting anyone. Leo Hathaway is definitely one hero that is one of a kind and he is currently on my list of my top romance heroes! Leo Hathaway is a truly unique hero because he can be so hilarious, charming and dangerous all at the same time and I especially loved his smart comments he says towards Catherine that drives her insane all the time! I also loved how Leo can be so caring and intuitive when it comes to Catherine’s past and it was interesting and dreamy seeing him comfort Catherine through her times of need as it shows that Leo is a truly kind-hearted character despite his scandalous past. Also, the best part I liked about Leo is how his body is described as being lean and muscular and that is an aspect that I loved reading about in all my romance heroes! Romance fans will definitely love the sex scenes between Catherine and Leo as it was hot and spicy and I have enjoyed every scene with them together!

For those of you who do not like sex scenes, this book has plenty of it. So, if the sex scenes make you feel uncomfortable, feel free to skip over these scenes.

Overall, “Married by Morning” is easily one of the most emotionally driven novels in the famous “Hathaway” series and Lisa Kleypas fans will definitely enjoy this timeless tale of trust and true love!

Review is also on: Rabbit Ears Book Blog
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Jan 15, 2011 Annie the Destroyer *Leather Lust* rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Everyone, especially historical romance fans

Recommended to Annie the Destroyer *Leather Lust* by: Leah, Suzanne, Elena R

Shelves: genre-historical-romance, books-i-own, author-lisa-kleypas, books-i-go-rabid-over, my-hottie-harem, favorites, read-in-2011

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I don’t think there are adequate words to explain how I feel about this series. I absolutely love The Hathways and Leo, Lord Ramsay is one of my favourite characters from this series!!

With his devilishly wicked wit and infuriating persona, I can’t help but fall for him! Reading about his journey from a grieving and self-destructive mess to a man of honour and charm, it’s evident that Kleypas has put in a lot of hard work to make the hero of this book memorable! I adore Leo and all his efforts to...more

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May 26, 2010 Juliana rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, best-romance-heroes-ever, best-romance-heroines-ever, 2010-reads, 2010-mar-reads, 0-own-in-dead-tree-form, 0-reviewed, 3-half-stars, all-time-best-romance-heroes-ever

Second half of the book far better than the first ... and how can I get my own Leo?! (3.5 stars)

[1852, Hampshire and London, England:]
So here it is! The long awaited romance of "Marks" and Leo! I know I'm not alone when I say that by the end of the second Hathaway book, SEDUCE ME AT SUNRISE, I was sensing that they would be matched up in the future and was already anxiously anticipating it.

Many readers have been counting down the days till this book came out, and that same pressure and exciteme...more

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Jun 09, 2010 Pamela(AllHoney) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: dreamy-heroes, favorites, desert-island-keepers, hr-victorian-edwardian, love-hate-relationship, bluestocking-wallflower-hr, nanny-governess-companion, rakes-rogues-womanizers, own, pet-or-animal-in-story, virgin-heroine, dukes-earls-viscounts-etc, my-5-star-romances, plain-jane

The fourth book in Lisa Kleypas' The Hathaways series. I must admit that like many people I didn't like Leo in the first Hathaway novel. But through time he has grown into something worthy and I ended up quite pleased with his and Catherine's story. Ms Kleypas has a talent for writing some of the best historical romance out there. In my opinion this is one of her best. Lots of witty repartee mixed into a steamy courtship.

"I know I'm a bad bargain. But I'm begging you to have me anyway. Because...more

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Jul 02, 2010 FlibBityFLooB rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: era-victorian, historical, read-in-2010, made-me-laugh, loved-the-audiobook-narration, witty-i-am-not

Perhaps it was because I didn't think this book would be anything out of the ordinary that I ended up absolutely loving it. I think it was my favorite in the Hathaways series so far :)

There was some good humor, there was a sweet love story, there was prostitution, there was collapsing ruins, and my favorite -- there was ferret dancing!

"He did a happy ferret war dance, a series of hops and wriggles."

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Apr 22, 2011 Nisha rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historicalromance, bluestocking-independent-spinster, frenemies, opposites-attract, rake-player-heroes, re-read, favorites, hot-hero-award, super-large-family-series

Just seconds after reading this book, I was salivating to reread it - this time for the quotes.

Before reading this book, I already had a tender spot reserved for Leo and Marks (I like the nickname, its real cute). They were the couple that were waiting to happen, after all their bickering and bluster.

Leo, as we know, is a bit of a roller coaster. He admits it himself, that when falls in love, he falls hard. I kinda liked the primitive edge that LK included within his character. His humor has not...more

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May 28, 2010 Alex rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2010-books, historical-romance, favourites

This book is certainly worth waiting for!!! I can't believe the tenderness & love that oozes from this couple (who had orignally hated one another). Lisa Kleypas knows where to hit the right spot for the reader to say 'awwwww...' at the end of every scene. This is certainly another one of my favourites from her.Also, Leo's wickedness comes out at the right moments for me! Plus, I appreciated the fact that there was constant reference to Marks' glasses (usually, authors mentioned it once &...more

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Jan 20, 2013 Keertana rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Rating: 3.5 Stars

At this point, it should be obvious that I love Lisa Kleypas. If it isn’t, I’ll make it clear: I adore Kleypas. Perhaps not to the degree of flat-out awe that I hold for, say, Melina Marchetta or Kristin Cashore, but close. You see, Kleypas is not only an extraordinary writer, but she’s a crafter of human will. With her novels, she not only creates smoldering historical romance stories, but she writes breathtaking love stories, ones with characters who are so deeply felt and thr...more Rating: 3.5 Stars

At this point, it should be obvious that I love Lisa Kleypas. If it isn’t, I’ll make it clear: I adore Kleypas. Perhaps not to the degree of flat-out awe that I hold for, say, Melina Marchetta or Kristin Cashore, but close. You see, Kleypas is not only an extraordinary writer, but she’s a crafter of human will. With her novels, she not only creates smoldering historical romance stories, but she writes breathtaking love stories, ones with characters who are so deeply felt and three-dimensional and, best of all, whose romances are perfect in every flawed way.

Married By Morning, despite being the second-to-last Hathaway novel, is actually the last novel in this series I’m reading. (Yes, I skipped ahead to Beatrice’s story and it was AMAZING!) Without a doubt, I will be sad to see this series fade away into my pile of re-reads, sad to know that I will never again experience the unexpected surprise of meeting the Hathaways again…not unless I disregard this series for a couple of years and I can assure you, I don’t plan to do that at all. If anything, I intend to re-read it with every spare moment I find.

In her second-to-last story in this series, Hathaway has created a slightly different romance from her usual theme. Of course, all her novels feature characters and love stories that are vastly different from one another, whether they are between strangers, childhood friends, or through an exchange of love letters. In Married By Morning though, we have a love story that we have been waiting for eagerly and know is going to happen. Leo, the eldest – and only – brother in the Hathaway household has been an important member of the family from Mine Till Midnight and with each book, we’ve seen his changing relationship with each of his sisters and we’ve seen him grow and fight on past heartbreak. We have also, delightfully, seen his banter with Miss Catherine Marks, the governess of sorts. In Tempt Me At Twilight, we were witness to a strange unfolding of Catherine’s past, but only part of it.

Thus, Married By Morning is more of an exploration of how two people, who we already know very well, can come to realize that they are perfect for one another. In this aspect, the book is flawless. Kleypas slowly (and tortuously) unfolds the relationship between Leo and Catherine, as they move to lust, like, and eventual love, finding a way to get along despite their differences and realizing that truly, they bring out the best in one another. Unfortunately, though, because Leo and Catherine are two characters we know so well, the slight mystery element in this novel lies flat. Of course, I don’t mean mystery in the typical sense but mystery in the sense that which each Hathaway novel, we see a different side to these siblings, one that we don’t see through the eyes of their elder siblings. Beatrice and Poppy, for example, are much more than the innocent girls they seem to be, but Catherine and Leo are exactly who they have always been ever since the beginning.

I think, for this reason, Married By Morning falls a little short. Of course, it needs to be taken into account that this book follows Tempt Me at Twilight, undoubtedly the most perfect and heart-wrenching romance ever, and I am reading this after Love in the Afternoon, another favorite of mine in this series. Thus, as a historical romance novel in general, this book is outstanding and a sure winner, but when compared to the other Hathaway Novels, I found that this was just a tad bit too dramatic, too long-drawn, and not as engaging. It is definitely a sure step better than my antagonistic relationship with Seduce Me at Sunrise, but perhaps I was expecting a bit more from Leo’s story and it didn’t all live up. Perhaps I wanted a romance that would unfold without external influences and dramatic events. Either way, I didn’t envision the tale of Leo and Catherine coming to be like this and while I can’t say I’m disappointed, I’m not entirely satisfied either.

Nevertheless, this is another wonderful edition to an utterly perfect series. I love that the Hathaways never leave and keep popping up in every novel, making them the perfect and model family for all. Each of the relationships in this series is so very perfect and full of understanding and best of all – in this book at any rate – there is plenty of Harry Rutledge to keep us ~~fangirls~~ ladies satisfied. If I haven’t been able to convince you to pick up this series – regardless of whether or not you’re a fan of historical romance – then let me just stress once again that truly, you are missing out; missing out on delightful characters that will wedge their way into your heart, missing out on dashing heroes who are just as flawed and realistic as they are incredibly handsome, and missing out on writing that will keep your inner word-nerd satisfied. All in all, I cannot express how sorry I am to leave the Hathaways, but here’s to hoping all of Kleypas’ other series keep me just as riveting, engaged, and satisfied! (less)

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Aug 04, 2010 Jasmine rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, lisa-kleypas, favorites

I'm hopping on a time machine to steal Leo away from Catherine right now, it is becoming clear that I'm going to miss that constant teasing and playful charm a great deal.

There were so many memorable scenes and highly entertaining conversations, I found myself constantly going back and re-read and sigh dreamily. How does Lisa Kleypas come up with those lines? I really admire her talent and thank the day I know about her. There is no need for me to go into further details, just know that this bo...more

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Carol *Young at Heart Oldie* Loved this book - my favourite of the Hathaway series. I just love Leo and his wit.
Jul 29, 2010 02:16am

Jasmine I absolutely agree with you Carol. Even though I haven't read Beatrix's story yet, I have the feeling that this one will be my favorite of the series....more
Jul 29, 2010 04:51am

Carol *Young at Heart Oldie* I really enjoyed 'Love in the Afternoon' but, unfortunately, Leo had already stolen my heart and so my favourite Hathaway book has to be 'Married by M...more
Jul 29, 2010 05:47am

Nov 18, 2012 Lauren rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, pregnancy, stalkers, tortured-heros, victorian, virgin-heroines, governess-companion, twins, love-hate-relationship, reformed-rake

Married by Morning
4.5 Stars

A riveting romance, charming characters and the most adorable ferret to ever grace the pages of a novel.

The love/hate relationship between Cat and Leo is intense and engaging. I had my doubts about Leo in book #1 but he is ultimately revealed to be one of the most compassionate and caring heroes in the series and comes a close second to my absolute favorite, Kev. Cat makes him believe in life and love again and his determination to love and protect her is admirable.

C...more

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Sep 11, 2010 Mollie *scoutrmom* rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: fans of historical romance

Recommended to Mollie *scoutrmom* by: the ladies of the Dangerous Hero Addict Support Group

Shelves: romance, read-in-2010, read-in-2011, read-in-2012

I think this book has one of the more fascinating plots I've read in years. The protagonists engage one's empathy, and the villains are sufficiently well-articulated to add spice.

I can hardly wait for my turn in line at the public library on the next one.

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Apr 24, 2013 *Hayley* rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 20-something-heroine, 2013, setting-london, victorian-romance, rakes-and-rogues, love-hate-relationship, wallflower-or-spinster, historical-romance, amazing-secondary-characters, beautiful-hero, blonde-heroine, brother-and-sister, charming-hero, dreamy-hero, engagement, family-issues, favorites, first-time-in-love, happily-ever-after, hottie-hero, inexperienced-or-virgin-heroine, lady-of-the-night, page-turner, part-of-a-series, rlftci-2013-book-challenge, protective-hero, second-chance-at-love, sisters, some-people-change, stubborn-heroine, stubborn-hero, the-truth-comes-out, troubled-heroine, twins, wonderful-ending

“You are not a perfect woman.You have an evil temper, you’re as blind as a mole, you’re a deplorable poet, and frankly, your French accent could use some work.” Supporting himself on his elbows, Leo took her face in his hands. “But when I put those things together with the rest of you, it makes you into the most perfectly imperfect woman I’ve ever known.”

Oh Leo, Leo, Leo. A perfect rake/rouge hero turned into somewhat of a gentleman. The kind of man that I would swoon over no doubt. I was waiti...more

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Mar 10, 2012 Carla *Jen7waters* rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, read-in-2012, steamy, favorite-authors, virgin-heroine

Leo’s book! Finally! I’ve been waiting so long for this moment. :D
I’ve been rooting for Leo and Marks since Seduce Me At Sunrise, even if they clearly couldn't stand the sight of each of other then, but really, Leo needed to eat crow because of those nasty comments about dried-up matchstick legs, how a man had to be insane to want her, or how, for Heaven’s sake, she looked like the Grim Reaper. So yes, I couldn’t wait for Leo to fall for this woman, and love her, in his own words, like a madman...more

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Jun 22, 2011 Kelly22 rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Fans of Lisa Kleypas!!

Shelves: gorgeous-handsome-attractive-hero, bad-boy-rake-rogue-casanova, alpha-hero, viscount-earl-marquess, historical-romance, enemy-to-lover, hero-accomplished-lover, silver-tongued-sweet-talker-hero, commoner-heroine, prim-proper-prudish-heroine, virgin-herione, wallflower-spinster-plain-heroine, working-class-heroine, opposites-attract, reformed-rake-player, tortured-hero, witty-humerous-funny-comedy, beloved-favorites, favorite-hero, traumatized-abused-heroine, hero-makes-good-girls-go-bad, brooding-dangerous-hero, gamma-anti-hero, overtly-possessive-jealous-hero, brazen-unrepentant-rakes, lisa-kleypas, 5-stars, 5-stars-and-higher, family-moments, hero-i-am-crazy-abt, hero-flirt-playful-skilled-charmer, hero-gods-gift-to-woman, hero-mischief-maker-prankstar, banter-all-the-way, hero-a-master-seducer, favorite-series, archetypical-byronic-hero

5.00+ Stars – Victorian/Historical Romance

Opposites attract! WE, the delectably intelligent people, and the romance readers (both belonging to same group evidently) surely know this universal fact! But alas, one of MY most favorite heroes Leo Ramsay and HIS most favorite heroine Katherine Marks (since I won’t like any heroine of Leo due to personal unavoidable reasons) didn’t know that! Damn! What to do in such a grave situation? (hmm…serious thoughts!!) Off course, our very own loving novelist...more

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Apr 15, 2011 Shelly rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: audiobook-version, regency-victorian-era, favorites, romance-historical, set-in-england

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. To be honest, I didn't think I'd like Leo by the time his book came about, I just couldn't see it. This makes the 9th, or is it 10th Lisa Kleypas book I've read, when am I going to learn? He's damn charming, it's hard not to like him!
Overall, the book was great, but not perfect for me. Leo is a great character, I love seeing characters have to go through hell and back, it endears them to me so much! Catherine is a good character too, but I didn't love her. I did come to really appreciate all she...more

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Jan 25, 2012 Bekah rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-reads

4 * Married by Morning

Leo, Lord Ramsey and Catherine Marks have been at odds since the day they met. Catherine is employed by the Hathaways to instruct Leo’s two younger sisters in the ways of the ton. Leo knows she is hiding something and he’s determined to find out exactly what it is, just as soon as he gets to the bottom of the sizzling attraction he has for the tight laced Catherine Marks!

I’ve been waiting and waiting and waiting for Leo’s story. He broke my heart in Mine till Midnight when...more

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Jun 01, 2010 Jess the Romanceaholic rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Jess the Romanceaholic by: any Lisa Kleypas fan

Shelves: victorian, historical, marriage-of-convenience, kidnapped, fallen-woman, 2010-read, promiscuous-hero, auto-buy, enemies-to-lovers, family-issues, romany-gypsy, smuttastic, spinster-heroine, tortured-hero, beautiful-heroine

Ahhh I'd forgotten just how much I love Lisa Kleypas :)

I was so happy to see Leo find his match, and even more, I was thrilled when I found out he'd find it in Marks.

I admit, as an extremely nearsighted gal myself, I have to say I have a soft spot for the spectacle-wearing governess ;)

Leo was simply dreamy -- there's not much I like more than a truly reformed rake who's completely arse-over-teakettle for a woman like that.

Of course, I've read the entire Hathaway series, but I do think it would s...more

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Jun 12, 2010 Cheryl rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: lisa-kleypas, summer-reading-challenge, historical-romance, books-i-own, favorite-heroes, all-time-favorites

The much anticipated story of Leo and Miss Marks was a hit with this reader, 5 big stars!!!

When first introduced to Leo Hathaway in Mine Till Midnight, I hated him! I thought he was selfish, rude and a complete wastrel and cad! Then in each book after that he started redeeming himself just a bit, little by little at a time. Then when Catherine Marks was introduced I just knew something was going to end up happening with the two of them.

Leo and Miss Marks got along like oil in water, they hated o...more

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Jun 30, 2010 Anja rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: audiobook

Audiobook

This was a very uneven read for me. I liked the second half better than the first but not by a lot. I did not see any chemistry between the leads until 70 pages in and then it went away. Then it came back a while later and went away again. Just when I thought I could see the romance occuring it went away. I felt like I was the rope in a tug of war game.

I never found their snippy remarks to each other even before this book to be evidence of attraction and found it hard to believe when th...more

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Apr 09, 2012 Melodramaticfool rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: enjoyable-and-light, passionate-romances

Sweet, sweet Leo! I loved the banter between Leo and Cat. Super adorable! I think all Kleypas fans were excited for Leo's story, especially after reading how much of a mess he was after the death of his fiance in Mine Till Midnight. And it would be the first book where the man is the main character of the romance! Dodger was a nice humorous addition, too. I almost wanted a ferret of my own after this. Almost. They are stinky little fellows...
Hooray for a good book! I'm looking forward to getting...more

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Nov 27, 2011 Rizka F Ryuichi Asami rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, 03-i-own-book, lisa-kleypas, modern-times-regency-england

menurut aku sih gak begitu ada greget nya... Catherine nya rada loyo dari segi pencitraan nya ... klo Leo yah lumayan lah ... pas baca ini malah nungguin Harry Rutledge + Poppy .... kayak nya cerita harry + poppy dah nancep banget di banding yg lain niyhhhh...

Bintang 5 deh ... untuk hot scene nya .... tapi klo dari segi cerita dan hero & heroine nya bintang 3 aja ....

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Mar 13, 2012 Ian rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

No...I'm not finished...I'm walking away from this one. The whole historical romance just isn't my thing. I guess most people who read these books get swept away in the rakish and gallant heroes, the gorgeous women in all their finery, the beautiful white horses, the manor houses....me I just can't get past the fact that toilet paper wasn't invented till 1880 and everyone probably smelled like poop.

Oh...I'm giving it 4 stars because I'm sure it's very good. All these other people can't be wrong.

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May 08, 2013 Booklover, Indianapolis rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: best-read-in-2013, read-in-2013, u-k-historicals-1700s-1800s

(May) 4.5* I loved this book! I have found each Hathaway book getting progressively more enjoyable as the series has gone on (so glad I picked this up when it was a completed series!). I'm amazed at what a good job LK did in making Leo into one of the most enjoyable heros I've come across in a long while, considering I could not stand him in the first book! He was smart, funny, sexy, and I enjoyed every minute we get to spend with him. Cat was a pretty good heroine - she of course had a secret,...more

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Married by Morning (The Hathaways #4)

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