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The Dressmakers #2
Scandal Wears Satin
From the Journals of Sophia Noirot: A dress is a weapon. It must dazzle his eye, raise his temperature... and empty his purse.
A blue-eyed innocent on the outside and a shark on the inside, dressmaker Sophy Noirot could sell sand to Bedouins. Selling Maison Noirot's beautiful designs to aristocratic ladies is a little harder, especially since a recent family scandal has made an enemy of one of society's fashion leaders. Turning scandal to the shop's advantage requires every iota of Sophy's skills, leaving her little patience for a big, reckless rake like the Earl of Longmore. The gorgeous lummox can't keep more than one idea in his head at a time, and his idea is taking off all of Sophy's clothes.
But when Longmore's sister, Noirot's wealthiest, favorite customer, runs away, Sophy can't let him bumble after her on his own. In hot pursuit with the one man who tempts her beyond reason, she finds desire has never slipped on so smoothly.
A blue-eyed innocent on the outside and a shark on the inside, dressmaker Sophy Noirot could sell sand to Bedouins. Selling Maison Noirot's beautiful designs to aristocratic ladies is a little harder, especially since a recent family scandal has made an enemy of one of society's fashion leaders. Turning scandal to the shop's advantage requires every iota of Sophy's skills, leaving her little patience for a big, reckless rake like the Earl of Longmore. The gorgeous lummox can't keep more than one idea in his head at a time, and his idea is taking off all of Sophy's clothes.
But when Longmore's sister, Noirot's wealthiest, favorite customer, runs away, Sophy can't let him bumble after her on his own. In hot pursuit with the one man who tempts her beyond reason, she finds desire has never slipped on so smoothly.
372 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 26, 2012
279 people are currently reading
3376 people want to read
About the author
Loretta Chase
52 books3,662 followersLoretta Lynda Chekani was born in 1949, of Albanian ancestry. For her, the trouble started when she learned to write in first grade. Before then, she had been making up her own stories but now she knew how to write them down to share. In her teenage years, she continue to write letters, keep a journal, write poetry and even attempt the Great American Novel (still unfinished). She attended New England public schools, before she went off to college and earned an English degree from Clark University.
After graduation, she worked a variety of jobs at Clark including a part-time teaching post. She was also moonlighting as a video scriptwriter. It was there that she met a video producer who inspired her to write novels and marry him. Under her married name, Loretta Chase, has been publishing historical romance novels since 1987. Her books have won many awards, including the Romance Writers of America RITA.
After graduation, she worked a variety of jobs at Clark including a part-time teaching post. She was also moonlighting as a video scriptwriter. It was there that she met a video producer who inspired her to write novels and marry him. Under her married name, Loretta Chase, has been publishing historical romance novels since 1987. Her books have won many awards, including the Romance Writers of America RITA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 709 reviews
July 24, 2012
So, so disappointing. One of the biggest let-downs of the year and my expectations weren't even that high.
There are three three main characters in Scandal Wears Satin: Harry, Sophy, and Clara.
To say I didn't care for the characters would be a gross understatement.
In addition, the beginning isn't exciting at all and I found my mind wandering a lot. I would have put this book aside had it not been for how much I loved Silk Is For Seduction.
Even when the story began for real, I couldn't believe how unremarkable and boring the plot was: Harry and Sophy teaming up to find Harry's runaway sister, Clara. There were no interesting adventures, no lovely settings, nothing except Harry being hard, Sophy being dull, and Clara being an imbecile.
All the clothing details, which were vividly gorgeous in Silk Is For Seduction, are tedious in this one. Page upon page of clothes' descriptions that looked positively hideous when I envisioned them in my head are just one of the many things I hated reading about in Scandal Wears Satin.
Another pet peeve? How the term "Noirot" is used as an adjective over and over. For example:
The romance between Harry and Sophy didn't quite ring true. There was no connection, understanding, love, and most of all, respect between the two. Their HEA felt unnatural and didn't fit with the rest of the story.
I might continue reading this series, I might not. Right now, I'm leaning more towards not.
For more reviews, visit my blog.
There are three three main characters in Scandal Wears Satin: Harry, Sophy, and Clara.
1. Harry was a chauvinistic pig and an asshole, had the intelligence of a donkey and the tact and subtlety of an elephant, was more or less always hard, and did nothing but lust after Sophy.
2. Sophy had the personality of an immature child, believing herself to be so much more than she really was. While she rarely annoyed me, I did find myself pitying her a great deal.
3. Clara was a spoiled brat accustomed to always getting her way, and the first time things went awry, she ran away. This weakling of a woman was absolutely pathetic and I loathed her.
To say I didn't care for the characters would be a gross understatement.
In addition, the beginning isn't exciting at all and I found my mind wandering a lot. I would have put this book aside had it not been for how much I loved Silk Is For Seduction.
Even when the story began for real, I couldn't believe how unremarkable and boring the plot was: Harry and Sophy teaming up to find Harry's runaway sister, Clara. There were no interesting adventures, no lovely settings, nothing except Harry being hard, Sophy being dull, and Clara being an imbecile.
All the clothing details, which were vividly gorgeous in Silk Is For Seduction, are tedious in this one. Page upon page of clothes' descriptions that looked positively hideous when I envisioned them in my head are just one of the many things I hated reading about in Scandal Wears Satin.
Another pet peeve? How the term "Noirot" is used as an adjective over and over. For example:
She was shaking inside.
Outside, she was a Noirot.
The romance between Harry and Sophy didn't quite ring true. There was no connection, understanding, love, and most of all, respect between the two. Their HEA felt unnatural and didn't fit with the rest of the story.
I might continue reading this series, I might not. Right now, I'm leaning more towards not.
For more reviews, visit my blog.
June 20, 2020
I’m a huge Loretta Chase fan. Her books are always a delicious combination of sexy heroes, strong but feminine heroines, fun plots and rib-tickling humour. I loved Silk is for Seduction, the first book in her Dressmakers series, and so I had high expectations of the second book, Scandal Wears Satin.
There’s one thing certain, if you’re feeling miserable when you start reading this book, you’re sure to have a big grin on your face by the time you get to the end. It is everything I have come to expect from Ms Chase – funny, sharp, witty, imaginative, entertaining and romantic. Maybe the plot is far-fetched but it is pure entertainment from start to finish.
In most romances it is usually the hero who takes centre stage but, in Scandal Wears Satin, Sophy is definitely the star of the show in my opinion. She’s such a vibrant character – clever, vivacious, independent,determined and self-possessed. But, occasionally, she has moments of insecurity and uncertainty and I love that vulnerable side of her. It makes her even more lovable.
When it comes to saving the Maison Noirot from disaster, I adore how she uses her amazing arsenal of talents – considerable guile, irresistible charm, remarkable literary talents and brilliant disguises – to maximum effect. I found this little scene between Clevedon and Longmore in which they discuss Sophy’s literary talents so amusing.
”Hers is an exceptionally keen eye for detail,” Clevedon said.
“And an exceptionally busy pen,” Longmore said. “It’s easy to recognise her work in the ‘Spectacle’. Streams of words about ribbons and bows and lace and pleats here and gathers there. No thread goes unmentioned.”
“She notices gestures and looks as well,” Clevedon said. “She listens. No one’s stories are like hers.”
“No question about that,” Longmore said. “She’s never met an adjective or adverb she didn’t like.”
Sophy tries to stay level-headed and not let her attraction for Longmore get in the way of what needs to be done to save the Maison Noirot. But it doesn’t stop her indulging in fantasies about him from time to time. After all, she’s a member of the Noirot family, a breed keenly tuned to animal excitement – and not possessing much in the way of moral principles.
There’s something about Longmore that I just find so endearing and I think it’s because he’s totally honest about himself. Yes, he’s arrogant, reckless and loves nothing more than a good brawl but, somehow, he manages to put all these would be black marks to good use during the course of the story. He has a great sense of humour which is a big plus in my book. He never professes to be an intellectual giant but he is far more intelligent than he gives himself credit for. I love the scene where Longmore and a disguised Sophy go to Mrs Downes’s shop to gauge the competition and Longmore handles himself so brilliantly.
Sophy was too experienced in deceit to show her feelings. She didn’t gawk at him, except in her thoughts. He’d said he was confused, and she’d had a moment’s alarm, that subterfuge was beyond his intellectual capabilities.
But whether by accident or not, he’d created a beautiful opening, and she knew how to play along.
When they find Clara, Longmore doesn’t judge her but understands that she needs help. He also considers how worried his parents must be and sends a message to let them know she is safe. I totally agree with Sophy’s sentiments.
”She’s lucky to have you for a brother, and your parents are lucky to have you as a son.”
If I didn’t already adore Longmore, then these few words would definitely have won my heart.
” We might have made one of those…you know…little squirmy pink things that howl.”
The chemistry between these two is absolutely delicious and their witty banter, a pure delight. I also love Longmore’s internal monologues such as this one.
His mind went hazy then, images of muslin and lace underwear strewed themselves about his brain, and somewhere in that dishevelment was a blue-eyed angelic devil, mostly unclothed. He waved a hand, waving the images away. Now wasn’t the time. He was only beginning his siege, and he knew – he could always tell – he faced a very trick fortress. All sorts of hidden passages and diversions and booby traps.
The clothing is definitely a major player in this book. Ms Chase describes everything in gorgeous detail, the outrageous hats and the wondrous confections of gowns.
Scandal Wears Silk made me think of that delightful 1934 screwball road –trip romantic comedy, It Happened One Night, with Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert.
VERDICT : Filled with humour, sparkling wit and captivating romance
RATING : ★★★★★
There’s one thing certain, if you’re feeling miserable when you start reading this book, you’re sure to have a big grin on your face by the time you get to the end. It is everything I have come to expect from Ms Chase – funny, sharp, witty, imaginative, entertaining and romantic. Maybe the plot is far-fetched but it is pure entertainment from start to finish.
In most romances it is usually the hero who takes centre stage but, in Scandal Wears Satin, Sophy is definitely the star of the show in my opinion. She’s such a vibrant character – clever, vivacious, independent,determined and self-possessed. But, occasionally, she has moments of insecurity and uncertainty and I love that vulnerable side of her. It makes her even more lovable.
When it comes to saving the Maison Noirot from disaster, I adore how she uses her amazing arsenal of talents – considerable guile, irresistible charm, remarkable literary talents and brilliant disguises – to maximum effect. I found this little scene between Clevedon and Longmore in which they discuss Sophy’s literary talents so amusing.
”Hers is an exceptionally keen eye for detail,” Clevedon said.
“And an exceptionally busy pen,” Longmore said. “It’s easy to recognise her work in the ‘Spectacle’. Streams of words about ribbons and bows and lace and pleats here and gathers there. No thread goes unmentioned.”
“She notices gestures and looks as well,” Clevedon said. “She listens. No one’s stories are like hers.”
“No question about that,” Longmore said. “She’s never met an adjective or adverb she didn’t like.”
Sophy tries to stay level-headed and not let her attraction for Longmore get in the way of what needs to be done to save the Maison Noirot. But it doesn’t stop her indulging in fantasies about him from time to time. After all, she’s a member of the Noirot family, a breed keenly tuned to animal excitement – and not possessing much in the way of moral principles.
There’s something about Longmore that I just find so endearing and I think it’s because he’s totally honest about himself. Yes, he’s arrogant, reckless and loves nothing more than a good brawl but, somehow, he manages to put all these would be black marks to good use during the course of the story. He has a great sense of humour which is a big plus in my book. He never professes to be an intellectual giant but he is far more intelligent than he gives himself credit for. I love the scene where Longmore and a disguised Sophy go to Mrs Downes’s shop to gauge the competition and Longmore handles himself so brilliantly.
Sophy was too experienced in deceit to show her feelings. She didn’t gawk at him, except in her thoughts. He’d said he was confused, and she’d had a moment’s alarm, that subterfuge was beyond his intellectual capabilities.
But whether by accident or not, he’d created a beautiful opening, and she knew how to play along.
When they find Clara, Longmore doesn’t judge her but understands that she needs help. He also considers how worried his parents must be and sends a message to let them know she is safe. I totally agree with Sophy’s sentiments.
”She’s lucky to have you for a brother, and your parents are lucky to have you as a son.”
If I didn’t already adore Longmore, then these few words would definitely have won my heart.
” We might have made one of those…you know…little squirmy pink things that howl.”
The chemistry between these two is absolutely delicious and their witty banter, a pure delight. I also love Longmore’s internal monologues such as this one.
His mind went hazy then, images of muslin and lace underwear strewed themselves about his brain, and somewhere in that dishevelment was a blue-eyed angelic devil, mostly unclothed. He waved a hand, waving the images away. Now wasn’t the time. He was only beginning his siege, and he knew – he could always tell – he faced a very trick fortress. All sorts of hidden passages and diversions and booby traps.
The clothing is definitely a major player in this book. Ms Chase describes everything in gorgeous detail, the outrageous hats and the wondrous confections of gowns.
Scandal Wears Silk made me think of that delightful 1934 screwball road –trip romantic comedy, It Happened One Night, with Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert.
VERDICT : Filled with humour, sparkling wit and captivating romance
RATING : ★★★★★
March 29, 2024
I thought we'd settled that matter. How many times do we have to fornicate for you to—
"We don't fornicate," he said between his teeth.
"It isn't ladylike to say the shorter word," she said.
"We make love," he said.
I’m obsesseddddddd with them. It took a while for me to get obsessed which is why only 4.25⭐️/5 but like !!!!!
"We don't fornicate," he said between his teeth.
"It isn't ladylike to say the shorter word," she said.
"We make love," he said.
I’m obsesseddddddd with them. It took a while for me to get obsessed which is why only 4.25⭐️/5 but like !!!!!
December 15, 2025
Heroine wears the brains
Loretta Chase brings it this time~
This series was an impulse buy a few years back, but sadly,
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━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Loretta Chase brings it this time~
This series was an impulse buy a few years back, but sadly,
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
February 1, 2018
An easy 4.5 stars.
What a fun book! The banter between Longmore (hero) and Sophie (heroine) was hilarious.
This was the classic tale of the whip-smart girl and the gorgeous hunk who seems incredibly thick but is actually not that thick at all. Yes, there was a ton of clothes-talk, but I loved the whole concept of Maison Noirot and the dressmakers. (I am not particularly into fashion per se, but I actually enjoyed the detailed research and wonderful descriptions. Don't let that part put you off.)
Both MCs were charming in their own way, and I liked how Sophie resisted their attraction because she thought Longmore just another ,b>idiot aristocrat. He ended up having such a great sense of responsibility and his regard for her was total. Sigh!
Sophie, fiercely independent and very intelligent, is forced to accept Longmore's help when the most important client of their dressmaking shop, who happens to be his sister, does a runner to avoid marriage.
Their travels together are very amusing. She usually feels the urgent need to thump Longmore, if not to kill him, and he gradually realises he has fallen in love with her, even though he is not one for deep introspection or, he believed, deep feelings. He doesn't fight it. Hooray! Finally, a hero who doesn't overthink every bloody thing. (I get a bit tired of authors trying to make heroes overly-complicated. IMHO, most blokes are pretty simple, and they are not going to analyse everything all the time. Or run away from their feelings. Angst for the sake of it is just annoying). As I said, he is a man who goes on instinct. He realises he loves her and he will let NOTHING stand in the way of his getting her. And marrying her. And he will work on her until she says "yes".
Longmore is such a cutie- all masculine gorgeousness and instincts (There's a fight? Yes, please- let me at him, says Longmore- I need to let off some steam!) Yet with a really noble heart. And, weirdly enough, a remarkable gift for languages! Yes, he started out quite sexist and domineering. The rigid role division of the time, the sexist and class-based assumptions everyone made, were only going to feed those prejudices. But he learnt very quickly that Sophie was not the usual sort and he changed his tune, thank God. Just as well- he did piss me off a bit at the start :) The difficulties of being a romantic feminist. Probably an oxymoron.
Sophie is all biting wit, articulate prose and hidden vulnerability. It takes her a while to acknowledge that sometimes it is nice to share a burden, or to let someone rescue her. They are perfect for each other. After encountering so many non-romantic HR's lately, where there is just sex or history, but no real emotional or spiritual elements, it was so good to feel the ROMANCE.
As always, Kate Reading' narration was excellent. Scandal Wears Satin only improved on the re-read/listen: highly recommended.
I kind of think this is a bit like Longmore trying to think
And a gratuitous pic of my fave tall dark hunk....
What a fun book! The banter between Longmore (hero) and Sophie (heroine) was hilarious.
This was the classic tale of the whip-smart girl and the gorgeous hunk who seems incredibly thick but is actually not that thick at all. Yes, there was a ton of clothes-talk, but I loved the whole concept of Maison Noirot and the dressmakers. (I am not particularly into fashion per se, but I actually enjoyed the detailed research and wonderful descriptions. Don't let that part put you off.)
Both MCs were charming in their own way, and I liked how Sophie resisted their attraction because she thought Longmore just another ,b>idiot aristocrat. He ended up having such a great sense of responsibility and his regard for her was total. Sigh!
Sophie, fiercely independent and very intelligent, is forced to accept Longmore's help when the most important client of their dressmaking shop, who happens to be his sister, does a runner to avoid marriage.
Their travels together are very amusing. She usually feels the urgent need to thump Longmore, if not to kill him, and he gradually realises he has fallen in love with her, even though he is not one for deep introspection or, he believed, deep feelings. He doesn't fight it. Hooray! Finally, a hero who doesn't overthink every bloody thing. (I get a bit tired of authors trying to make heroes overly-complicated. IMHO, most blokes are pretty simple, and they are not going to analyse everything all the time. Or run away from their feelings. Angst for the sake of it is just annoying). As I said, he is a man who goes on instinct. He realises he loves her and he will let NOTHING stand in the way of his getting her. And marrying her. And he will work on her until she says "yes".
Longmore is such a cutie- all masculine gorgeousness and instincts (There's a fight? Yes, please- let me at him, says Longmore- I need to let off some steam!) Yet with a really noble heart. And, weirdly enough, a remarkable gift for languages! Yes, he started out quite sexist and domineering. The rigid role division of the time, the sexist and class-based assumptions everyone made, were only going to feed those prejudices. But he learnt very quickly that Sophie was not the usual sort and he changed his tune, thank God. Just as well- he did piss me off a bit at the start :) The difficulties of being a romantic feminist. Probably an oxymoron.
Sophie is all biting wit, articulate prose and hidden vulnerability. It takes her a while to acknowledge that sometimes it is nice to share a burden, or to let someone rescue her. They are perfect for each other. After encountering so many non-romantic HR's lately, where there is just sex or history, but no real emotional or spiritual elements, it was so good to feel the ROMANCE.
As always, Kate Reading' narration was excellent. Scandal Wears Satin only improved on the re-read/listen: highly recommended.
I kind of think this is a bit like Longmore trying to think
And a gratuitous pic of my fave tall dark hunk....
September 17, 2019
Nuestra reseña en A la cama con... un libro
2'5 estrellitas.
Tenía buena pinta pero me he aburrido un rato.
2'5 estrellitas.
Tenía buena pinta pero me he aburrido un rato.
June 4, 2018
Right in front of their noses...
It's amazing how you can see what you want to see instead of what is in front of your face. I'm very guilty of this when I'm proofreading my own work. Sometimes I'm shocked at re-reading what I've previously written and find words that don't even make sense or seem remotely correct. It's like my brain thinks a word and my hands type something somewhat close...sounding/meaning. I guess we're all guilty of seeing what we expect...like maybe a French heiress instead of a dressmaker.
I really liked this story...well mostly. I find myself continuously squinty-eyed when the hero is an obnoxious buffoon who casts a lady he meets into the slot of mistress instead of the wife. Well, this guy is not the smartest tool on the shelf by his own admission. It still frustrated me that he took nearly the whole book to see this incredibly smart and interesting woman as more than what was between her legs. Luckily, in good historical romance fashion, he comes good and I loved him by the end.
This series has been thoroughly entertaining. Each of the sisters is an original and I loved that they use their intelligence as well as their looks to succeed.
Again, the narrator does a fantastic job. Like the first book I listened to in the series, the only character I find annoying (listening to) is Clara. It's a touch little girly whiney (shudders).
I will definitely be going on in the series.
It's amazing how you can see what you want to see instead of what is in front of your face. I'm very guilty of this when I'm proofreading my own work. Sometimes I'm shocked at re-reading what I've previously written and find words that don't even make sense or seem remotely correct. It's like my brain thinks a word and my hands type something somewhat close...sounding/meaning. I guess we're all guilty of seeing what we expect...like maybe a French heiress instead of a dressmaker.
I really liked this story...well mostly. I find myself continuously squinty-eyed when the hero is an obnoxious buffoon who casts a lady he meets into the slot of mistress instead of the wife. Well, this guy is not the smartest tool on the shelf by his own admission. It still frustrated me that he took nearly the whole book to see this incredibly smart and interesting woman as more than what was between her legs. Luckily, in good historical romance fashion, he comes good and I loved him by the end.
This series has been thoroughly entertaining. Each of the sisters is an original and I loved that they use their intelligence as well as their looks to succeed.
Again, the narrator does a fantastic job. Like the first book I listened to in the series, the only character I find annoying (listening to) is Clara. It's a touch little girly whiney (shudders).
I will definitely be going on in the series.
August 7, 2024
If this historical romance from my favourite HR author (one of my favourites at the very least) was food, the food it would be would be a pavlova. Technically complicated to pull off well (and it is, oh, done so well), impressive, entertaining, and all so airy and pretty, but also fresh. It is one of my favourite desserts, and I liked this book, which felt like a dessert very much.
It's non-angsty, and the conflict is almost all external; the FMC and MMC know each other, and well, from the previous book (which I read long ago but I remember not liking it much), this is mostly them joining forces to help his sister escape an unwanted marriage. Harry is a self-acknowledged himbo (though a faux one, IMO; he sees everything so very sharply), Sophy is a genius of manipulation, the dialogue, snappy narration, and historical detail are all delicious (and technically impressive). It is very funny very often, in a Heyer style. Low plot, but maybe I prefer it that way: what I remember of the previous book was too much plot and drama in the background, this was just two people falling in love while respecting and liking each other and bantering like crazy (with many outrageous dresses).
Nobody does a himbo character like Loretta Chase, no one. Harry's PoV was priceless.It was also the right book at the right time, perfect for hot-August brain... Very moreish (like a good pavlova). I will get to the unread books of the rest of the series (my last unread Loretta Chases...) one of these days.
It's non-angsty, and the conflict is almost all external; the FMC and MMC know each other, and well, from the previous book (which I read long ago but I remember not liking it much), this is mostly them joining forces to help his sister escape an unwanted marriage. Harry is a self-acknowledged himbo (though a faux one, IMO; he sees everything so very sharply), Sophy is a genius of manipulation, the dialogue, snappy narration, and historical detail are all delicious (and technically impressive). It is very funny very often, in a Heyer style. Low plot, but maybe I prefer it that way: what I remember of the previous book was too much plot and drama in the background, this was just two people falling in love while respecting and liking each other and bantering like crazy (with many outrageous dresses).
Nobody does a himbo character like Loretta Chase, no one. Harry's PoV was priceless.It was also the right book at the right time, perfect for hot-August brain... Very moreish (like a good pavlova). I will get to the unread books of the rest of the series (my last unread Loretta Chases...) one of these days.
June 21, 2020
Second in the series about the charming and slightly conniving dressmakers that want to sweep the Ton but end up catching noblemen instead. The series is on the cusp between the Regency and early Victorian which is captured by the fashions of the time.
Chase has done her research as she writes of fashion terms that I have had to Google. Not my favorite fashion era. Too much sleeve.
Still a three star, but the banter and the chemistry are much better between the H and h. She’s another little schemer, but a schemer only when it comes to furthering the sisters’ business and rescuing the H’s little sister from a scandal. She’s attracted to the big lummox of a hero but doesn’t know what to do with him.
The hero reflecting on the heroine...
evil dressmaker by day and Tom Foxe’s premier spy by night.
Not a game changer but a nice way to spend some time reading.
Chase has done her research as she writes of fashion terms that I have had to Google. Not my favorite fashion era. Too much sleeve.
Still a three star, but the banter and the chemistry are much better between the H and h. She’s another little schemer, but a schemer only when it comes to furthering the sisters’ business and rescuing the H’s little sister from a scandal. She’s attracted to the big lummox of a hero but doesn’t know what to do with him.
The hero reflecting on the heroine...
evil dressmaker by day and Tom Foxe’s premier spy by night.
Not a game changer but a nice way to spend some time reading.
March 1, 2018
No sé di darle las cinco estrellas, la verdad. Mi duda radica en el final, un poco precipitado.
A ver me ha gustado mucho, tanto ella como él son tremendos. ¡Menudos diálogos!.
He visto una evolución muy importante por parte de Harry (Longmore). Me ha gustado cómo a través de Sophy, ha ido cambiando su forma de ver a las mujeres. De verlas cómo a algo por lo que proteger, indefensas, o peor, cómo mero tramite para sus necesidades. Sophy, con su independencia, su fuerza de carácter, su desenvoltura, le ha dado Zascas constantemente.
Me ha hecho muchísima gracia cómo decía una cosa o pensaba algo, llegaba Sophy y le hacia replanteárselo todo.
Por supuesto, Sophy se come el libro y todo lo que se lleve por delante. Era como ver a Matajari y gran actriz de teatro. Porque una cosa está clara, esta mujer se transformaba y embelesaba a todos lo que la miraban. Que capacidad para manipular y darle la vuelta a la tortilla. El poder de la palabra, tanto escrita como hablada, es muy poderosa y ella lo hace magistralmente.
Creo que Loretta Chase crea unos personajes femeninos muy fuertes, muy reivindicativos y , tal vez, diferentes a la época en la que vivían. No voy a entrar en que si es real o no un personaje así. Para mí el mérito es que sea creíble dentro de la inverosimilitud. Y eso, tiene un logro tremendo.
Por otra parte, tengo la sensación de que los libros son como pequeños trazos para el libro final de Clara. Es posible que sea mi percepción, o mis ansias por llegar a dicho libro. Pero las tramas, tanto la anterior como está, ronda sobre ella.
Por supuesto, Clara me esta gustando.
Y para terminar, me siguen pareciendo las hermanas unas mujeres chapo, de quitarse el sombrero.
Y ahora voy a por el tercero, en inglés (mierda).
A ver me ha gustado mucho, tanto ella como él son tremendos. ¡Menudos diálogos!.
He visto una evolución muy importante por parte de Harry (Longmore). Me ha gustado cómo a través de Sophy, ha ido cambiando su forma de ver a las mujeres. De verlas cómo a algo por lo que proteger, indefensas, o peor, cómo mero tramite para sus necesidades. Sophy, con su independencia, su fuerza de carácter, su desenvoltura, le ha dado Zascas constantemente.
Me ha hecho muchísima gracia cómo decía una cosa o pensaba algo, llegaba Sophy y le hacia replanteárselo todo.
Por supuesto, Sophy se come el libro y todo lo que se lleve por delante. Era como ver a Matajari y gran actriz de teatro. Porque una cosa está clara, esta mujer se transformaba y embelesaba a todos lo que la miraban. Que capacidad para manipular y darle la vuelta a la tortilla. El poder de la palabra, tanto escrita como hablada, es muy poderosa y ella lo hace magistralmente.
Creo que Loretta Chase crea unos personajes femeninos muy fuertes, muy reivindicativos y , tal vez, diferentes a la época en la que vivían. No voy a entrar en que si es real o no un personaje así. Para mí el mérito es que sea creíble dentro de la inverosimilitud. Y eso, tiene un logro tremendo.
Por otra parte, tengo la sensación de que los libros son como pequeños trazos para el libro final de Clara. Es posible que sea mi percepción, o mis ansias por llegar a dicho libro. Pero las tramas, tanto la anterior como está, ronda sobre ella.
Por supuesto, Clara me esta gustando.
Y para terminar, me siguen pareciendo las hermanas unas mujeres chapo, de quitarse el sombrero.
Y ahora voy a por el tercero, en inglés (mierda).
July 3, 2019
Perhaps not as good as #1 in the Dressmakers series, but this book is filled with classic Loretta Chase humor, fun characters, and a bit of adventure. Yes, Harry is a bit of a dim bulb (but he's really quite clever in his own way), and Sophie is a bit of a bossy Bess, but it's lots of fun to watch these two tangle.
And please tell me that somehow, some way, poor Lady Clara will wind up with her own HEA.
Favorite quotes:
“That’s what brings in the customers: the combination of gossip and the intricate detail about the dresses, all related as drama. It has the same effect on women, I’m told, as looking at naked women has on men.”
“Go away,” he said. “Do you know you’ve almost no clothes on?”
“Never mind. I need—”
“Never mind? Listen to me, Miss Innocence. There are many things a man can ‘never mind.’ A nearly naked woman isn’t one of them.”
“Clara will break him to bridle,” Longmore said. “And if she can’t cure his wild ways, who knows? Maybe he’ll ride into a ditch or get run over by a post chaise, and she’ll be a young widow. Do try to look on the bright side.”
“Just listen,” she said. “You can’t kill him in cold blood.”
“Whyever not?”
Ye gods grant me patience. “Because he’ll be dead,” she said as patiently as she could, “and Lady Clara’s reputation will be stained forever. Do not, I pray you, do anything, Lord Longmore. Leave this to us.”
“Us.”
“My sisters and me.”
“What do you propose? Dressing him to death? Tying him up and making him listen to fashion descriptions?”
And please tell me that somehow, some way, poor Lady Clara will wind up with her own HEA.
Favorite quotes:
“That’s what brings in the customers: the combination of gossip and the intricate detail about the dresses, all related as drama. It has the same effect on women, I’m told, as looking at naked women has on men.”
“Go away,” he said. “Do you know you’ve almost no clothes on?”
“Never mind. I need—”
“Never mind? Listen to me, Miss Innocence. There are many things a man can ‘never mind.’ A nearly naked woman isn’t one of them.”
“Clara will break him to bridle,” Longmore said. “And if she can’t cure his wild ways, who knows? Maybe he’ll ride into a ditch or get run over by a post chaise, and she’ll be a young widow. Do try to look on the bright side.”
“Just listen,” she said. “You can’t kill him in cold blood.”
“Whyever not?”
Ye gods grant me patience. “Because he’ll be dead,” she said as patiently as she could, “and Lady Clara’s reputation will be stained forever. Do not, I pray you, do anything, Lord Longmore. Leave this to us.”
“Us.”
“My sisters and me.”
“What do you propose? Dressing him to death? Tying him up and making him listen to fashion descriptions?”
May 14, 2020
Lovely when you manage to overcome the first 60-70 pages.
My biggest complain is that the hero is described often as on idiot who cannot grasp what the heroine explain to him!
The heroine is a very intelligent and has some very cunning ideas how to save the hero's sister from utter riun, while the hero just want to do what he think is better even if his ideas are stupid.
The heroine has to manage both him and the situation.
Still, becaus of his idiocy he is endearing as a cute unruly child is... LOL
My biggest complain is that the hero is described often as on idiot who cannot grasp what the heroine explain to him!
The heroine is a very intelligent and has some very cunning ideas how to save the hero's sister from utter riun, while the hero just want to do what he think is better even if his ideas are stupid.
The heroine has to manage both him and the situation.
Still, becaus of his idiocy he is endearing as a cute unruly child is... LOL
August 12, 2023
Audiobook, reread. An absolute delight. A road trip, Chase Banter™️ , and a himbo with more brawn than brains. Harry and Sophie the dressmaker go after his runaway sister before she's utterly ruined. Forced proximity ahoy! The madcap pace slowed down after they found Clara but it's a minor quibble.
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5
🔥🔥/5
Tropes
Road trip
Forced proximity
Class difference
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5
🔥🔥/5
Tropes
Road trip
Forced proximity
Class difference
October 4, 2016
I WAS SO INTO THIS YOU GUYS???
Sophy Noirot is the brilliant con-woman keeping Maison Noirot afloat with wit and spunk. Harry Fairfax, Earl of Longmore, is the sexy buffoon who haunts people's pants. They have chemistry which ignites into ~emotions when they go galavanting off across England to rescue Harry's little sister, Clara.
1. THE HUMOR. I needed this dry sass-fest of a book. I needed Sophy and Harry belligerently breaking up with one another while simultaneously making love. I needed them arguing about their schemes because poor Harry is all agape while Sophy tries to manage him. All the banter on every page. IT WAS SO GREAT.
2. HARRY'S A DOPE!! He's the Rupert of 2016 and I loved it. He can only handle one thought in his head at time!! AND IT'S USUALLY SOPHY'S BRILLIANCE! OR HER BREASTS!! I love how intelligent he is even while being a complete fool. HE DOESN'T KNOW WHAT'S WRONG WITH HIM: OH WAIT HE DOES AND IT'S LOVE!!! lkdjfldk
3. The "plot" was...not super engaging, but I'm glad Clara got rescued from that snake and I'm very excited about her book! I'm also a little wary of Leonie's book if only because I really didn't get a good sense of her character from Scandal Wears Satin?? Like, I could handle the very slight mentions of Marcelline as we've already had her book and having past heroines steal the current thunder is kind of a buzzkill. But I didn't really get a sense for the next book at all and that's a bit disconcerting!! OH WELL IT'S CHASE. I CAN DEAL.
4. Some of the clothing description was a bit much (are mutton sleeves REALLY THAT ATTRACTIVE??? I'm sorry, I'm no Anne Shirley but puffed sleeves just don't do it for me??? AM I THE ONLY ONE???) and I found myself skipping a good chunk of the scandal-story writings because I didn't care how much lace the ladies were wearing. I'M SORRY I SUCK AT CLOTHES???
5. I flew through the last 2/3 of this book in a single evening when I needed a decent distraction from life and it was enjoyable and good and for that I give it 4.5 stars. COME AT ME, CHASE!!
Sophy Noirot is the brilliant con-woman keeping Maison Noirot afloat with wit and spunk. Harry Fairfax, Earl of Longmore, is the sexy buffoon who haunts people's pants. They have chemistry which ignites into ~emotions when they go galavanting off across England to rescue Harry's little sister, Clara.
1. THE HUMOR. I needed this dry sass-fest of a book. I needed Sophy and Harry belligerently breaking up with one another while simultaneously making love. I needed them arguing about their schemes because poor Harry is all agape while Sophy tries to manage him. All the banter on every page. IT WAS SO GREAT.
2. HARRY'S A DOPE!! He's the Rupert of 2016 and I loved it. He can only handle one thought in his head at time!! AND IT'S USUALLY SOPHY'S BRILLIANCE! OR HER BREASTS!! I love how intelligent he is even while being a complete fool. HE DOESN'T KNOW WHAT'S WRONG WITH HIM: OH WAIT HE DOES AND IT'S LOVE!!! lkdjfldk
3. The "plot" was...not super engaging, but I'm glad Clara got rescued from that snake and I'm very excited about her book! I'm also a little wary of Leonie's book if only because I really didn't get a good sense of her character from Scandal Wears Satin?? Like, I could handle the very slight mentions of Marcelline as we've already had her book and having past heroines steal the current thunder is kind of a buzzkill. But I didn't really get a sense for the next book at all and that's a bit disconcerting!! OH WELL IT'S CHASE. I CAN DEAL.
4. Some of the clothing description was a bit much (are mutton sleeves REALLY THAT ATTRACTIVE??? I'm sorry, I'm no Anne Shirley but puffed sleeves just don't do it for me??? AM I THE ONLY ONE???) and I found myself skipping a good chunk of the scandal-story writings because I didn't care how much lace the ladies were wearing. I'M SORRY I SUCK AT CLOTHES???
5. I flew through the last 2/3 of this book in a single evening when I needed a decent distraction from life and it was enjoyable and good and for that I give it 4.5 stars. COME AT ME, CHASE!!
December 19, 2013
Oh so disappointing.
I read a reader's review about Loretta Chase once, and she said something about how it used to take her forever to come out with books, but when it came out, it was an absolute gem. Then, maybe at the behest of her publisher, she was forced to churn out more books, and some of them turned into real duds.
This book is one of those duds.
Forget Lord of Scoundrels or Lord Perfect -- both of which were extremely well-written. Even the first book of this series, Silk is for Seduction, reads so much better. This book blew.
I appreciate that Loretta Chase was trying to center a plot around a dumb jock (Longmore, who made his first appearance as Clevedon's friend in the first book) and a literary genius (Sophy, Marcelline's younger sister). That worked only in theory.
The reason is because Longmore didn't come off particularly dumb in the first book. I personally didn't feel he was that stupid, except that he didn't spend a lot of time thinking about little details, but he wasn't particularly slow on the uptake when there was something major to be understood...HOWEVER, everyone in the book calls him stupid, including himself. Well, I suppose he didn't feel especially stupid to me because he was pitted against Sophy, and she felt like a really dumb person -- but one who calls herself super smart and comes up with these really stupid ideas without thinking it through. She's one of those characters who gets these ideas and then calls herself brilliant for thinking up these ideas, and it just so happens that some of those ideas pan out, BUT they probably wouldn't have. So honestly, it didn't seem like Longmore was any dumber than she was.
Perhaps because Longmore is made out to be a dumb block without sensitivity and feelings, there's not much angst going on within him before he figures out he's in love with Sophy. While that's okay, it's sort of stupid because you're left wondering how there was even love in the first place. Even stupid people think about their feelings. But Longmore is made out to be a person who doesn't think about anything at all...so it was hard to be touched when he blurts out that he loves her, and then laughs.
Also, there's the fact that their conversations are pretty bird-brained. The chemistry is exceedingly forced, and whenever they are talking or arguing, to get the couple into a lovey-dovey frame of mind, the author has Sophy laugh and dimple, which then makes Longmore lust for her. That's the extent of their bonding.
Some reviewers found Sophy irritating, and I must admit I did too. She wasn't charming like Marcelline, and even when she calls the shop the greatest, or whatever, it was bragging rather than stating a fact (especially since the shop wasn't doing so well, otherwise why would they have to embark on this mad scheme to "save" Clara). The whole trying to save Clara scheme was pretty lame, because she has to go after Clara and it has to be with Longmore, alone (even though Clara has like 5 siblings, at least of which are males) and Sophy keeps on talking about how "independent" she's had to be and how she's had to face a multitude of "tough" situations and apparently she carries a hatpin for that very purpose. But then at a crucial moment in a hostelry where she's set on by 5 drunk youngsters, Longmore has to save her, and then when he's trying to go after them to beat them to a pulp, she then sits there in the middle of the corridor, pounds the floor, and cries. Seriously??? Loretta Chase, what happened?!?!
It is a huge pity that I read this book immediately after reading Silk is for Seduction, because the characters seem to have just changed from who they were in the first book to be these people in the second book: irrational, stupid, and totally irrational.
I felt like the author wrote herself into a corner when she outlined her plot and characters. If maybe she hadn't tried so hard to make a stupid guy into the main character, the chemistry would have flowed more easily. I know that some (better) authors try to vary their characters a bit, but this case was a sad failure. Her male protagonist in Viscount Vagabond, for example, was a dumb, lazy, rebellious sort of person, but so much more charming than Longmore. Catherine Pelliston of the same book also had some ideas and initiative about carrying out those ideas...but she wasn't half so irritating as Sophy.
I read a reader's review about Loretta Chase once, and she said something about how it used to take her forever to come out with books, but when it came out, it was an absolute gem. Then, maybe at the behest of her publisher, she was forced to churn out more books, and some of them turned into real duds.
This book is one of those duds.
Forget Lord of Scoundrels or Lord Perfect -- both of which were extremely well-written. Even the first book of this series, Silk is for Seduction, reads so much better. This book blew.
I appreciate that Loretta Chase was trying to center a plot around a dumb jock (Longmore, who made his first appearance as Clevedon's friend in the first book) and a literary genius (Sophy, Marcelline's younger sister). That worked only in theory.
The reason is because Longmore didn't come off particularly dumb in the first book. I personally didn't feel he was that stupid, except that he didn't spend a lot of time thinking about little details, but he wasn't particularly slow on the uptake when there was something major to be understood...HOWEVER, everyone in the book calls him stupid, including himself. Well, I suppose he didn't feel especially stupid to me because he was pitted against Sophy, and she felt like a really dumb person -- but one who calls herself super smart and comes up with these really stupid ideas without thinking it through. She's one of those characters who gets these ideas and then calls herself brilliant for thinking up these ideas, and it just so happens that some of those ideas pan out, BUT they probably wouldn't have. So honestly, it didn't seem like Longmore was any dumber than she was.
Perhaps because Longmore is made out to be a dumb block without sensitivity and feelings, there's not much angst going on within him before he figures out he's in love with Sophy. While that's okay, it's sort of stupid because you're left wondering how there was even love in the first place. Even stupid people think about their feelings. But Longmore is made out to be a person who doesn't think about anything at all...so it was hard to be touched when he blurts out that he loves her, and then laughs.
Also, there's the fact that their conversations are pretty bird-brained. The chemistry is exceedingly forced, and whenever they are talking or arguing, to get the couple into a lovey-dovey frame of mind, the author has Sophy laugh and dimple, which then makes Longmore lust for her. That's the extent of their bonding.
Some reviewers found Sophy irritating, and I must admit I did too. She wasn't charming like Marcelline, and even when she calls the shop the greatest, or whatever, it was bragging rather than stating a fact (especially since the shop wasn't doing so well, otherwise why would they have to embark on this mad scheme to "save" Clara). The whole trying to save Clara scheme was pretty lame, because she has to go after Clara and it has to be with Longmore, alone (even though Clara has like 5 siblings, at least of which are males) and Sophy keeps on talking about how "independent" she's had to be and how she's had to face a multitude of "tough" situations and apparently she carries a hatpin for that very purpose. But then at a crucial moment in a hostelry where she's set on by 5 drunk youngsters, Longmore has to save her, and then when he's trying to go after them to beat them to a pulp, she then sits there in the middle of the corridor, pounds the floor, and cries. Seriously??? Loretta Chase, what happened?!?!
It is a huge pity that I read this book immediately after reading Silk is for Seduction, because the characters seem to have just changed from who they were in the first book to be these people in the second book: irrational, stupid, and totally irrational.
I felt like the author wrote herself into a corner when she outlined her plot and characters. If maybe she hadn't tried so hard to make a stupid guy into the main character, the chemistry would have flowed more easily. I know that some (better) authors try to vary their characters a bit, but this case was a sad failure. Her male protagonist in Viscount Vagabond, for example, was a dumb, lazy, rebellious sort of person, but so much more charming than Longmore. Catherine Pelliston of the same book also had some ideas and initiative about carrying out those ideas...but she wasn't half so irritating as Sophy.
April 10, 2016
This is one of those series where you really should read them in order. I'm sure it's comprehensible if you don't, but a good deal of the emotional landscape is set up in the previous book, including some of the deeper undercurrents with Longmore's family. As such, I'll abbreviate this review because you should know what to expect with regards to the quality of the writing and the setting and secondary characters.
I wasn't as attached to Sophy as I thought I'd be. I liked her and she has that same hard-headed determination we got with Marcelline, but the stakes were decidedly lower and so the tension behind her growing feelings for Longmore were blunted somewhat. Also, we already know that Clevedon and Marcelline were able to bridge the perceived gap between their class and family situation so it was much easier to see how Longmore and Sophy might manage the same feat.
It also doesn't help that having Clevedon in their back pocket (figuratively speaking) means there really is no existential crisis for the family avocation. At worst, they take a hit to their pride as they lean on his deep pockets to weather whatever setback might befall the story. So while repairing the circumstances of their favorite (and highest-profile) client is important to them, the stakes weren't nearly as high as they were in that first book.
Which is a lot of negative to heap on a book I couldn't put down until way too late despite early morning commitments and that still warrants a solid four stars. Chase is well on her way to becoming a favorite author and this is another nudge in that direction. The dialogue and characters and setting are all rock-solid and I really enjoyed my time with this novel. We'll see how the last one pans out. I can't wait to get to it, and I'm really glad I had the foresight to pull it from the library in advance.
A note about Steamy: In the middle of my range. There are two or three explicit sex scenes depending on how you count small breaks. As in the previous, these served the emotional story very well and was interwoven as a part of the relationship dynamic.
I wasn't as attached to Sophy as I thought I'd be. I liked her and she has that same hard-headed determination we got with Marcelline, but the stakes were decidedly lower and so the tension behind her growing feelings for Longmore were blunted somewhat. Also, we already know that Clevedon and Marcelline were able to bridge the perceived gap between their class and family situation so it was much easier to see how Longmore and Sophy might manage the same feat.
It also doesn't help that having Clevedon in their back pocket (figuratively speaking) means there really is no existential crisis for the family avocation. At worst, they take a hit to their pride as they lean on his deep pockets to weather whatever setback might befall the story. So while repairing the circumstances of their favorite (and highest-profile) client is important to them, the stakes weren't nearly as high as they were in that first book.
Which is a lot of negative to heap on a book I couldn't put down until way too late despite early morning commitments and that still warrants a solid four stars. Chase is well on her way to becoming a favorite author and this is another nudge in that direction. The dialogue and characters and setting are all rock-solid and I really enjoyed my time with this novel. We'll see how the last one pans out. I can't wait to get to it, and I'm really glad I had the foresight to pull it from the library in advance.
A note about Steamy: In the middle of my range. There are two or three explicit sex scenes depending on how you count small breaks. As in the previous, these served the emotional story very well and was interwoven as a part of the relationship dynamic.
June 26, 2012
This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.
Expected Release Date: June 26, 2012
Publisher: HarperCollins
Imprint: Avon
Author’s Website: lorettachase.com
My Source for This Book: Edelweiss
Part of a Series: Yes, Book 2, Dressmakers Series
Series Best Read In Order: Works well as a standalone
Steam Level: Steamy
Oh but how I adore the way Loretta Chase manages to give us deliciously sensible and pragmatic yet beautiful and enchanting heroines and the delightfully befuddled rake heroes to go with them. There is such magic in her stories, and this one was certainly no exception. While lighthearted and witty, there is still enough drama to keep things interesting, and the love that develops between Sophie and Longmore is absolutely delicious.
I’m so looking forward to Leonie’s book as well! The author herself was kind enough to tip me off to the fact that we have not yet met Leonie’s hero, and I can’t wait to see who the final Noirot sister ends up with! I also desperately hope that poor Clara gets her own Happily Ever After one day, whether it be in her own book, or as a subplot Leonie’s story.
Recommended for fans of lighthearted historical romance, delightfully charming (and sly!) heroines, and delicious heroes completely blindsided by love.
A very solid 4.5/5 Stars.
Expected Release Date: June 26, 2012
Publisher: HarperCollins
Imprint: Avon
Author’s Website: lorettachase.com
My Source for This Book: Edelweiss
Part of a Series: Yes, Book 2, Dressmakers Series
Series Best Read In Order: Works well as a standalone
Steam Level: Steamy
Oh but how I adore the way Loretta Chase manages to give us deliciously sensible and pragmatic yet beautiful and enchanting heroines and the delightfully befuddled rake heroes to go with them. There is such magic in her stories, and this one was certainly no exception. While lighthearted and witty, there is still enough drama to keep things interesting, and the love that develops between Sophie and Longmore is absolutely delicious.
I’m so looking forward to Leonie’s book as well! The author herself was kind enough to tip me off to the fact that we have not yet met Leonie’s hero, and I can’t wait to see who the final Noirot sister ends up with! I also desperately hope that poor Clara gets her own Happily Ever After one day, whether it be in her own book, or as a subplot Leonie’s story.
Recommended for fans of lighthearted historical romance, delightfully charming (and sly!) heroines, and delicious heroes completely blindsided by love.
A very solid 4.5/5 Stars.
December 8, 2025
Oh Longmore, you absolute fool.
Fall 2024 reread:
Longmore is the underrated himbo of our dreams in Scandal Wears Satin. I’ve read this book three times now, and it’s such a delight each time to watch Sophie scheme and Longmore think he’s too dumb to keep up, when in fact he has a very high emotional IQ (and a mastery of a lot of languages). He’s so totally gone for Sophie from the beginning, and I love the moment when he recognizes his own feelings for what they are.
The true stars of Loretta’s books are her heroines though, and Sophie is a master mind and a dedicated hard worker. You see their dedication to Clara as a client shift towards real friendship as this book progresses, much of which is through Sophie’s determination.
Fall 2024 reread:
Longmore is the underrated himbo of our dreams in Scandal Wears Satin. I’ve read this book three times now, and it’s such a delight each time to watch Sophie scheme and Longmore think he’s too dumb to keep up, when in fact he has a very high emotional IQ (and a mastery of a lot of languages). He’s so totally gone for Sophie from the beginning, and I love the moment when he recognizes his own feelings for what they are.
The true stars of Loretta’s books are her heroines though, and Sophie is a master mind and a dedicated hard worker. You see their dedication to Clara as a client shift towards real friendship as this book progresses, much of which is through Sophie’s determination.
May 16, 2012
Please Note: I read the ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of this book, therefore, there may be some discrepancies between what I quote and the final version. Assume any and all errors are mine because they probably are.
The Common Cause:
"If I were less of a catch," she went on, "and if it hadn't happened so publicly, with all those people seeing me half undressed, there would be an easier way out."
"You weren't half undressed," Sophy said. "Your bodice was a little disarranged, that was all."
"Not that it makes a difference,"Lady Clara said bitterly. Ruined is ruined."
"We're going to un-ruin you," Sophy said.
When Longmore's sister Clara is ruined by a scheming scoundrel who set out to gain her hand and her fortune by foul means, she runs away. Sophy and Longmore unite to find Clara and a means to prevent the marriage from taking place and to restore Clara's reputation.
The First Impressions:
'Black hair and glittering black eyes...the noble nose that ought to have been broken a dozen times yet remained stubbornly straight and arrogant...the hard, cynical mouth..the six-foot-plus frame.
All that manly beauty.
If only he had a brain.' (Sophy's impression of Longmore)
'A fetching bundle of energy and guile....She did a great deal he found intriguing--starting with the way she walked: She carried herself like a lady, like the women of his class, yet the sway of her hips promised something tantalizingly unladylike.' (Longmore's impression of Sophy)
The Famous last words...
"Love," Longmore said. "Bad idea."
Clevedon smiled. "One day Love will come along and knock you on your arse," he said."And I'll laugh myself sick, watching."
"Love will have its work cut out for it," Longmore said. "I'm not like you. I'm not 'sensitive'. If Love wants to take hold of me, not only will it have to knock me on my arse, it'll have to tie me down and beat to a pulp what some optimistically call my brains."
Sometimes when faced with a lost cause, all you need to do is look at it from a different perspective. Something the Noirot sisters excel at.
__________________
I just adore Loretta Chase's writing style. She has a magical, somewhat whimsical way of writing which makes me smile and enjoy the story so much more. For instance, instead of the 'chocolate' eyes that seem to be all the rage in romance novels lately, she writes, "all she saw were fathomless black depths, hot and promising sin and sin again." While I do love chocolate, describing the hero's eyes as promising sin, well, her way of putting it just sets my heart a flutter. Another example would be this, "She stretched and moved, seeking more, as a cat did when petted, though no cat could feel like this." Such a beautiful description.
Besides her style, her characters just seem so likeable and lifelike. While some might say no one can possibly be so good at creating a different persona as completely as Sophy, I've actually met someone who could and while rare, they do exist. Im fact, I once saw a show that claimed Marilyn Monroe possessed such an ability and could change he persona from one of just your average typically girl to her full fledged movie star glamour within the blink of an eye. I'm not quite sure how they do it, but I'm pretty positive it's something you are just born with and I must say its quite a sight to behold.
The bond between the books in this series is, of course, the Noirot sisters of which there are three. They are all skilled dressmakers each excelling at one aspect of the business making them quite a force to be reckoned with within the industry. Plus, the Noirot sisters are related to the 'Dreadful DeLuceys' from Chase's Lord Perfect (Carsington Brothers series) book which I adored and read prior to beginning my blog. The Dreadful DeLucey's have notoriously bad reputations, and it is rumored that 'whenever a Dreadful DeLucey appeared on the scene, someone's life was sure to change, and seldom for the better." ( Lord Perfect ; page 90) I don't know about anyone else, but I love it when an author brings ties from one series into another.
Sophy's and Longmore's relationship was so fun to watch. Each was pretty much wrapped in themselves sort of like tightly wound spools of thread. Each set in their ways and independent. As the intricate web of the tale is spun, the two separate threads became intertwined and merge into something beautiful, like the intricate designs on an embroidered dress. The two become as one yet still separate, each complimenting the other in a surprisingly delicate yet sturdy way. My favorite part is when Longmore realizes he's in love. He acts so goofy that it made me chuckle. It was quite charming and endearing and made me fall a little in love with the character myself.
Why is the book called Scandal Wears Satin? Well, I'm not 100% sure. At first I thought perhaps Clara's dress was made of Satin, but the description I read didn't include what fabric was used in her dress. Sophy's dresses, on the other hand, almost always included satin in the description. So, my theory is that Sophy is the person referred to in the title which seems fitting due to what she does to save Clara from an unpleasant fate, namely a loveless marriage to Adderly. It also seems fitting because of the quote I listed above from Lord Perfect. Sophy will definitely change someone's life and not for the better.
Overall, I gave this one 5 out of 5 roses. A charming tale that was beautifully written containing everything I've come to expect from a story written by Ms. Chase--witty dialogue, intriguing characters, a dash of drama, and of course, romance. Plus, I loved how I had no clue how she would manage to un-ruin Clara. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one gets a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.
Notes to keep you in the know:
Since the first book in the series was entitled Silk Is for Seduction and the second is entitled Scandal Wears Satin , I thought it would be fun to know what the difference is between silk and satin. According to d'Italia, "Satin is really just a finish of the silk or of any type of fabric. Satin, is a glossy, shiny finish to a fabric. They are shiny, but they can be made of anything. Satin can be made of silk. It can also be made of polyester or viscose." (To view more about the differences between silk and satin visit the website the above information was found at: http://www.ditalia.com.au/fashion-and...)
To read more of my reviews please visit my blog at www.seducedbyabook.com
The Common Cause:
"If I were less of a catch," she went on, "and if it hadn't happened so publicly, with all those people seeing me half undressed, there would be an easier way out."
"You weren't half undressed," Sophy said. "Your bodice was a little disarranged, that was all."
"Not that it makes a difference,"Lady Clara said bitterly. Ruined is ruined."
"We're going to un-ruin you," Sophy said.
When Longmore's sister Clara is ruined by a scheming scoundrel who set out to gain her hand and her fortune by foul means, she runs away. Sophy and Longmore unite to find Clara and a means to prevent the marriage from taking place and to restore Clara's reputation.
The First Impressions:
'Black hair and glittering black eyes...the noble nose that ought to have been broken a dozen times yet remained stubbornly straight and arrogant...the hard, cynical mouth..the six-foot-plus frame.
All that manly beauty.
If only he had a brain.' (Sophy's impression of Longmore)
'A fetching bundle of energy and guile....She did a great deal he found intriguing--starting with the way she walked: She carried herself like a lady, like the women of his class, yet the sway of her hips promised something tantalizingly unladylike.' (Longmore's impression of Sophy)
The Famous last words...
"Love," Longmore said. "Bad idea."
Clevedon smiled. "One day Love will come along and knock you on your arse," he said."And I'll laugh myself sick, watching."
"Love will have its work cut out for it," Longmore said. "I'm not like you. I'm not 'sensitive'. If Love wants to take hold of me, not only will it have to knock me on my arse, it'll have to tie me down and beat to a pulp what some optimistically call my brains."
Sometimes when faced with a lost cause, all you need to do is look at it from a different perspective. Something the Noirot sisters excel at.
__________________
I just adore Loretta Chase's writing style. She has a magical, somewhat whimsical way of writing which makes me smile and enjoy the story so much more. For instance, instead of the 'chocolate' eyes that seem to be all the rage in romance novels lately, she writes, "all she saw were fathomless black depths, hot and promising sin and sin again." While I do love chocolate, describing the hero's eyes as promising sin, well, her way of putting it just sets my heart a flutter. Another example would be this, "She stretched and moved, seeking more, as a cat did when petted, though no cat could feel like this." Such a beautiful description.
Besides her style, her characters just seem so likeable and lifelike. While some might say no one can possibly be so good at creating a different persona as completely as Sophy, I've actually met someone who could and while rare, they do exist. Im fact, I once saw a show that claimed Marilyn Monroe possessed such an ability and could change he persona from one of just your average typically girl to her full fledged movie star glamour within the blink of an eye. I'm not quite sure how they do it, but I'm pretty positive it's something you are just born with and I must say its quite a sight to behold.
The bond between the books in this series is, of course, the Noirot sisters of which there are three. They are all skilled dressmakers each excelling at one aspect of the business making them quite a force to be reckoned with within the industry. Plus, the Noirot sisters are related to the 'Dreadful DeLuceys' from Chase's Lord Perfect (Carsington Brothers series) book which I adored and read prior to beginning my blog. The Dreadful DeLucey's have notoriously bad reputations, and it is rumored that 'whenever a Dreadful DeLucey appeared on the scene, someone's life was sure to change, and seldom for the better." ( Lord Perfect ; page 90) I don't know about anyone else, but I love it when an author brings ties from one series into another.
Sophy's and Longmore's relationship was so fun to watch. Each was pretty much wrapped in themselves sort of like tightly wound spools of thread. Each set in their ways and independent. As the intricate web of the tale is spun, the two separate threads became intertwined and merge into something beautiful, like the intricate designs on an embroidered dress. The two become as one yet still separate, each complimenting the other in a surprisingly delicate yet sturdy way. My favorite part is when Longmore realizes he's in love. He acts so goofy that it made me chuckle. It was quite charming and endearing and made me fall a little in love with the character myself.
Why is the book called Scandal Wears Satin? Well, I'm not 100% sure. At first I thought perhaps Clara's dress was made of Satin, but the description I read didn't include what fabric was used in her dress. Sophy's dresses, on the other hand, almost always included satin in the description. So, my theory is that Sophy is the person referred to in the title which seems fitting due to what she does to save Clara from an unpleasant fate, namely a loveless marriage to Adderly. It also seems fitting because of the quote I listed above from Lord Perfect. Sophy will definitely change someone's life and not for the better.
Overall, I gave this one 5 out of 5 roses. A charming tale that was beautifully written containing everything I've come to expect from a story written by Ms. Chase--witty dialogue, intriguing characters, a dash of drama, and of course, romance. Plus, I loved how I had no clue how she would manage to un-ruin Clara. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one gets a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.
Notes to keep you in the know:
Since the first book in the series was entitled Silk Is for Seduction and the second is entitled Scandal Wears Satin , I thought it would be fun to know what the difference is between silk and satin. According to d'Italia, "Satin is really just a finish of the silk or of any type of fabric. Satin, is a glossy, shiny finish to a fabric. They are shiny, but they can be made of anything. Satin can be made of silk. It can also be made of polyester or viscose." (To view more about the differences between silk and satin visit the website the above information was found at: http://www.ditalia.com.au/fashion-and...)
To read more of my reviews please visit my blog at www.seducedbyabook.com
August 20, 2020
While I enjoyed the first book in the series that featured the eldest Noirot sister Marcelline and the Duke of Clevedon, I enjoyed this story more. It was easier to read and get into since the language while was historically authentic didn't sound contrived as it at times did in the first novel. Sophie and Harry were irreverent and funny, and their banter was sharp and refreshing.
Yes, the story did continue with Maison Noirot and all things clothes but this time another side of the dressmaker's life was shown. Sophie is the master of disguise and subterfuge, and the way she navigates and straddles the thin line between a servant and a noble is absolute marvel. I loved her intelligence and what she pulled off in the end. Harry was not the typical MC either. He was at times a bit slow on the uptake but never pretended to be more than what he was and was always sincere. What I really liked about him was how once he fell for Sophie, he never wavered in his affections or ever thought her less due to class difference. I loved how Lady Warford's issue have been resolved.
This was witty, well written historical romance with wonderful cast of characters, the glitter and aplomb of nobility and simple joy of falling in love and following where your heart leads. I enjoyed it a lot.
P.S. Can't wait to see how they deal with Dowdy!
Yes, the story did continue with Maison Noirot and all things clothes but this time another side of the dressmaker's life was shown. Sophie is the master of disguise and subterfuge, and the way she navigates and straddles the thin line between a servant and a noble is absolute marvel. I loved her intelligence and what she pulled off in the end. Harry was not the typical MC either. He was at times a bit slow on the uptake but never pretended to be more than what he was and was always sincere. What I really liked about him was how once he fell for Sophie, he never wavered in his affections or ever thought her less due to class difference. I loved how Lady Warford's issue have been resolved.
This was witty, well written historical romance with wonderful cast of characters, the glitter and aplomb of nobility and simple joy of falling in love and following where your heart leads. I enjoyed it a lot.
P.S. Can't wait to see how they deal with Dowdy!
January 12, 2018
Releída en un día.
En realidad, si no fuera por GR, pensaba que no la había leído. Coincido plenamente en mi anterior review que está más abajo. Está bien pero con las consideraciones mencionadas.
Anterior review:
Me gustó, una historia de amor muy dulce entre un libertino no muy avispado y una modista inteligente y de acción. Bastante tensión sexual antes de concretar, me gusta. Pasé un buen rato.
Pero….
Al igual que en el primero de la serie Modistas, no me cierra que estas chicas tengan tanta preocupación (de vida o muerte) por el futuro de su “Maison” cuando Marcelline, la hermana mayor, se casó con un Duque millonario. Esta preocupación es también el motor de Sophie, la protagonista de esta historia, para actuar. Está bien, la vocación, el amor propio, etc. es importante, pero si tener un esposo y cuñado Duque, con plata, guapo y sin madre, no les sirve para estar tranquila, ¡¡¡qué nos queda a nosotras!!!!!!
Por ahí si ellos tampoco tuvieran dinero, habría sido más creíble o interesante.
Otra cosa. Creo que la autora se empieza a repetir mucho: la persecución de Clara (con las paradas románticas en las posadas) me hizo acordar a la de los chicos en “Perfecto”y el protagonista que piensa poco al de “Imposible” y algo más que no me acuerdo.
En realidad, si no fuera por GR, pensaba que no la había leído. Coincido plenamente en mi anterior review que está más abajo. Está bien pero con las consideraciones mencionadas.
Anterior review:
Me gustó, una historia de amor muy dulce entre un libertino no muy avispado y una modista inteligente y de acción. Bastante tensión sexual antes de concretar, me gusta. Pasé un buen rato.
Pero….
Al igual que en el primero de la serie Modistas, no me cierra que estas chicas tengan tanta preocupación (de vida o muerte) por el futuro de su “Maison” cuando Marcelline, la hermana mayor, se casó con un Duque millonario. Esta preocupación es también el motor de Sophie, la protagonista de esta historia, para actuar. Está bien, la vocación, el amor propio, etc. es importante, pero si tener un esposo y cuñado Duque, con plata, guapo y sin madre, no les sirve para estar tranquila, ¡¡¡qué nos queda a nosotras!!!!!!
Por ahí si ellos tampoco tuvieran dinero, habría sido más creíble o interesante.
Otra cosa. Creo que la autora se empieza a repetir mucho: la persecución de Clara (con las paradas románticas en las posadas) me hizo acordar a la de los chicos en “Perfecto”y el protagonista que piensa poco al de “Imposible” y algo más que no me acuerdo.
January 4, 2014
Estas dos personalidades encontradas han protagonizado esos diálogos que me chifan... divertitos y llenos de ironía.
Me está gustando mucho esta saga
June 20, 2012
My ratings:4.5 out of 5 stars
Scandal wears Satin is the second book in the series Dressmakers by Loretta Chase. Sophy is the second Noirot sisters who have come over to England from France to establish themselves as the primary dressmakers on London catering to the wealthy and aristocracy.
In Silk is for Seduction, we see Marceline get her happy ending but it also hinted at who would be the most likely next couple. It was implied that Lord Longmore had a tender for Sophy who seemed to have brushed it aside. After the scandal caused by Marceline’s marriage to the Duke, the Noirot sisters are working extra hard trying to get back the patronage of the ‘ton'. In this quest Lady Clara would have had a primary role but she somehow gets embroiled in a scandal and is being forced to marry an impoverished fortune hunter. Now, Sophy and Harry have to join forces in order to stop the wedding without ruining Clara.
Sophy was an interesting character. She was really dedicated towards her work and Maison Noirot and it showed. She worked hard day in and out in what I would call in the PR for their establishment. I loved her determination and stubbornness. No matter, what was happening her first thoughts were always of her work. It was remarkble how much she wanted to succed and I have to admitt I admired her. Harry on the other hand was a unique romance hero. He fulfilled all the physical requirements for the role as he was tall, handsome etc. but as Sophy had described him slightly dull in the head. This is what made it really interesting was how Harry knew he wasn’t as smart as Sophy but he coped well. He may not be clever enough to be a spy was whatever he had, was just right. I would describe him as a typical man. Slightly selfish and simple headed. Okay, the description I’m providing here is not exactly enticing a lot of interest but you have to read it yourself to know what I’m trying to convey here. He may never be an Alpha here (as he seemed more like a beta) but he was refreshing to read about for sure.
The romance was believable and the situations (if slightly outlandish) were fun to read. The banter betwen them was entertaing and it was the dialogue make reading these story a pleasure.There were no massive declaration of love and chessy talk between then which was icing on cake because sometimes they make me cringe. We also see a little bit of Marceline and her Duke which was nice. I really enjoyed reading this and did not realise the turning of pages. I would have to add I loved Silk if for Seduction but Scandal Wears Satin does not lack in chemistry and sexual banter. Chase has this funny voice which made me laugh out loud reassuring me why I love Historical Romances so much. We haven’t seem much of the third sister, Leovine but I’m hoping her story would be as good as this.
So, if you like Loretta Chase already, I don’t need to urge you to pick this up but if you have not I would say you would not be disappointed. I enjoyed every minute of it and was never bored.
ARC provided by the publishers (Avon)
Read more of my reviews at Escapism from Reality
Scandal wears Satin is the second book in the series Dressmakers by Loretta Chase. Sophy is the second Noirot sisters who have come over to England from France to establish themselves as the primary dressmakers on London catering to the wealthy and aristocracy.
In Silk is for Seduction, we see Marceline get her happy ending but it also hinted at who would be the most likely next couple. It was implied that Lord Longmore had a tender for Sophy who seemed to have brushed it aside. After the scandal caused by Marceline’s marriage to the Duke, the Noirot sisters are working extra hard trying to get back the patronage of the ‘ton'. In this quest Lady Clara would have had a primary role but she somehow gets embroiled in a scandal and is being forced to marry an impoverished fortune hunter. Now, Sophy and Harry have to join forces in order to stop the wedding without ruining Clara.
“you know ...little squirmy pink things that howl.”
“A baby,” she said.”
Sophy was an interesting character. She was really dedicated towards her work and Maison Noirot and it showed. She worked hard day in and out in what I would call in the PR for their establishment. I loved her determination and stubbornness. No matter, what was happening her first thoughts were always of her work. It was remarkble how much she wanted to succed and I have to admitt I admired her. Harry on the other hand was a unique romance hero. He fulfilled all the physical requirements for the role as he was tall, handsome etc. but as Sophy had described him slightly dull in the head. This is what made it really interesting was how Harry knew he wasn’t as smart as Sophy but he coped well. He may not be clever enough to be a spy was whatever he had, was just right. I would describe him as a typical man. Slightly selfish and simple headed. Okay, the description I’m providing here is not exactly enticing a lot of interest but you have to read it yourself to know what I’m trying to convey here. He may never be an Alpha here (as he seemed more like a beta) but he was refreshing to read about for sure.
”You’d be amazed,” she said. “Most criminal types don’t have very large brains. They have little squirrel brains that think nothing but nuts, nuts. Nuts and how to get more nuts,... “
The romance was believable and the situations (if slightly outlandish) were fun to read. The banter betwen them was entertaing and it was the dialogue make reading these story a pleasure.There were no massive declaration of love and chessy talk between then which was icing on cake because sometimes they make me cringe. We also see a little bit of Marceline and her Duke which was nice. I really enjoyed reading this and did not realise the turning of pages. I would have to add I loved Silk if for Seduction but Scandal Wears Satin does not lack in chemistry and sexual banter. Chase has this funny voice which made me laugh out loud reassuring me why I love Historical Romances so much. We haven’t seem much of the third sister, Leovine but I’m hoping her story would be as good as this.
“....or maybe you didn’t notice, being surrounded by men trying to attract your attention.”
“Don’t fret about those men, my lord,” she said.” I had eyes only for you.”
“At least you have taste,” he said”
So, if you like Loretta Chase already, I don’t need to urge you to pick this up but if you have not I would say you would not be disappointed. I enjoyed every minute of it and was never bored.
“Why has no woman stabbed you before now, I wonder?” she said.
“I have quick reflexes”
ARC provided by the publishers (Avon)
Read more of my reviews at Escapism from Reality
July 4, 2012
Read my review on Demon Lover's Books and More
This is my first Loretta Chase novel, and while I can definitely say it won’t be my last, I will also add that I was slightly disappointed. I think I expected more from her. I almost didn’t finish it twice. At one point, my ARC expired (I was about halfway through, and finally getting into it!) and I had to get the book myself just to find out what happened!
Lady Clara is compromised by Lord Adderley, a bankrupt jerk who took advantage of Lady Clara on purpose because he needs her dowry. Lady Clara is the bestand most important customer of Sophy and her sisters’ dress shop Maison Noirot. She runs off, and Sophy devises a way to bring her back. Longmore is under the impression he is saving Clara, but Sophy is the brain behind the operation. They are led on a merry chase but eventually find and bring Clara back. Sophy of course has a grand plan that she is hatching to keep Clara from marrying Adderley, and it works, but I wanted more interaction between Sophy and Longmore, and less focus on Clara’s problems. I think it could have been wrapped up sooner so that Sophy’s ending didn’t feel so rushed.
I liked Sophy, I think it’s hard not to, but I also felt she became rather tedious at the end with all of her plots, and schemes and circular logic. I wanted just one straightforward conversation between her and Longmore, if I could have had that, I would’ve chocked up the rest to her vivacious and charming personality. Unfortunately I felt like her charm wore off towards the end.
I don’t mind a hero who isn’t smarter than the heroine. That being said, I feel like Longmore was given this reputation of being nothing more than a prettyboy, a lover of women, and he doesn’t like to think too hard, yet I’m not sure he was as stupid as we were supposed to think. He is constantly saying how thinking hurts his brainbox, and Sophy is saying how he should just leave the thinking and plotting to her, the author tells us he’s not a thinker, yet he is I’d say above average intelligence (i.e. a normal guy).
I didn’t like his treatment of Sophy all the time. Most of the time it was fine, but even when he figured she was a virgin, he talked himself into seducing her anyway, because she wasn’t a lady. She’s a dressmaker. Towards the end, his jealousy drove me nuts because of how he treated Sophy. But that being said, Sophy would never really explain anything to him, so it was hard for him to know that she really did know what she was doing.
Also, it started with trying to figure out what to do about their rival dressmaker, yet I never felt that was resolved. My guess is that it will be in the next book, but I would have preferred a hint at that, rather than it just being left as is.
On the whole, I was extremely impressed with Ms. Chase’s writing, I mean wow! Is she good! But the plot was too convoluted and the beginning was slightly confusing. I think if you’ve read Silk Is For Seduction, you won’t be confused and you may enjoy it more.
***Thank you to Avon and Edelweiss for the review copy
This is my first Loretta Chase novel, and while I can definitely say it won’t be my last, I will also add that I was slightly disappointed. I think I expected more from her. I almost didn’t finish it twice. At one point, my ARC expired (I was about halfway through, and finally getting into it!) and I had to get the book myself just to find out what happened!
Lady Clara is compromised by Lord Adderley, a bankrupt jerk who took advantage of Lady Clara on purpose because he needs her dowry. Lady Clara is the bestand most important customer of Sophy and her sisters’ dress shop Maison Noirot. She runs off, and Sophy devises a way to bring her back. Longmore is under the impression he is saving Clara, but Sophy is the brain behind the operation. They are led on a merry chase but eventually find and bring Clara back. Sophy of course has a grand plan that she is hatching to keep Clara from marrying Adderley, and it works, but I wanted more interaction between Sophy and Longmore, and less focus on Clara’s problems. I think it could have been wrapped up sooner so that Sophy’s ending didn’t feel so rushed.
I liked Sophy, I think it’s hard not to, but I also felt she became rather tedious at the end with all of her plots, and schemes and circular logic. I wanted just one straightforward conversation between her and Longmore, if I could have had that, I would’ve chocked up the rest to her vivacious and charming personality. Unfortunately I felt like her charm wore off towards the end.
I don’t mind a hero who isn’t smarter than the heroine. That being said, I feel like Longmore was given this reputation of being nothing more than a prettyboy, a lover of women, and he doesn’t like to think too hard, yet I’m not sure he was as stupid as we were supposed to think. He is constantly saying how thinking hurts his brainbox, and Sophy is saying how he should just leave the thinking and plotting to her, the author tells us he’s not a thinker, yet he is I’d say above average intelligence (i.e. a normal guy).
I didn’t like his treatment of Sophy all the time. Most of the time it was fine, but even when he figured she was a virgin, he talked himself into seducing her anyway, because she wasn’t a lady. She’s a dressmaker. Towards the end, his jealousy drove me nuts because of how he treated Sophy. But that being said, Sophy would never really explain anything to him, so it was hard for him to know that she really did know what she was doing.
Also, it started with trying to figure out what to do about their rival dressmaker, yet I never felt that was resolved. My guess is that it will be in the next book, but I would have preferred a hint at that, rather than it just being left as is.
On the whole, I was extremely impressed with Ms. Chase’s writing, I mean wow! Is she good! But the plot was too convoluted and the beginning was slightly confusing. I think if you’ve read Silk Is For Seduction, you won’t be confused and you may enjoy it more.
***Thank you to Avon and Edelweiss for the review copy
February 26, 2016
Opinião completa em: http://pepitamagica.blogspot.pt/2016/...
Full review: http://pepitamagica.blogspot.pt/2016/...
(...)
Sophia (ou Sophy) tem um jeito especial com as palavras, e é por isso que é ela que faz as descrições dos vestidos da Maison Noirot, é ela que lida com os jornalistas e é ela que se infiltra nos bailes e ocasiões sociais sem ser descoberta – porque todas as mulheres Noirot sabem esconder-se ou fazerem ver-se.
Quando Clara, a irmã do Earl, decide que está farta da sua vida, ela e a sua fiel criada fogem e Longmore decide recorrer às irmãs Noirot para o ajudarem. As costureiras ouviam os problemas de Clara e não querem, de todo, que a sua mais fiel (e rica) cliente desapareça. Sophy é então incumbida de ajudar Longmore e estes partem numa aventura para tentar descobrir Clara antes da sua reputação ser completamente destruída – uma jovem rica e bem-parecida não passa despercebida.
(...)
Numa das suas paragens onde esperavam que Clara estivesse, Sophy e Longmore vão visitar a tia deste último que reconhece de alguma maneira Sophia, o que desperta ainda mais a atenção do Earl. As mulheres Noirot escondem com elas segredos que não querem, de todo, que venham ao de cima.
(...)
Achei a história de Sophia e de Longmore mais fraca que a do primeiro livro mas ainda assim interessante. Irei com certeza ler o terceiro livro (a história da terceira irmã, Leonie Noirot) até porque é o que mais me atrai por saber tão pouco sobre esta irmã.
Full review: http://pepitamagica.blogspot.pt/2016/...
(...)
Sophia (ou Sophy) tem um jeito especial com as palavras, e é por isso que é ela que faz as descrições dos vestidos da Maison Noirot, é ela que lida com os jornalistas e é ela que se infiltra nos bailes e ocasiões sociais sem ser descoberta – porque todas as mulheres Noirot sabem esconder-se ou fazerem ver-se.
Quando Clara, a irmã do Earl, decide que está farta da sua vida, ela e a sua fiel criada fogem e Longmore decide recorrer às irmãs Noirot para o ajudarem. As costureiras ouviam os problemas de Clara e não querem, de todo, que a sua mais fiel (e rica) cliente desapareça. Sophy é então incumbida de ajudar Longmore e estes partem numa aventura para tentar descobrir Clara antes da sua reputação ser completamente destruída – uma jovem rica e bem-parecida não passa despercebida.
(...)
Numa das suas paragens onde esperavam que Clara estivesse, Sophy e Longmore vão visitar a tia deste último que reconhece de alguma maneira Sophia, o que desperta ainda mais a atenção do Earl. As mulheres Noirot escondem com elas segredos que não querem, de todo, que venham ao de cima.
(...)
Achei a história de Sophia e de Longmore mais fraca que a do primeiro livro mas ainda assim interessante. Irei com certeza ler o terceiro livro (a história da terceira irmã, Leonie Noirot) até porque é o que mais me atrai por saber tão pouco sobre esta irmã.
March 29, 2023
It was worth the wait! I loved Sophy and Harry. They were a great couple that complemented each other: she was Machiavellian and he was straightforward, she "used a lot of adjectives and adverbs" and he was plain-spoken, she wanted to talk about feelings and he hated it(this usually applies to all men but it was worth mentioning :D).
Sophy and Harry:
It really covers both characters :))
Sophy and Harry:
It really covers both characters :))
July 17, 2012
Loved it, loved it. One of my favorite Chase pairings - supposedly thick-headed hero with brilliant heroine. Their banter is sparkly and sexy and also very emotional. LC has an incredible knack for making the reader laugh at the same time as she's pulling on the heart strings. Nobody does it better! And nobody but nobody can paint emotional depth during a sex scene like LC, either. Masterful.
August 19, 2017
This was great! I loved it so much. Sophy and Harry just seemed so perfect, as individuals and as a couple. I loved how their feelings sort of sneaked up on them, it wasn't so obvious. And their adventures and mishaps and everything... oh it was just great! The only thing I don't quite get is the whole DeLucey thing and about little Lucie's eyes. Oh well, maybe it'll be revealed in the end.
December 10, 2014
It's Monday morning, and I could use a few laughs. Depend upon Loretta Chase to provide them.
Kate Reading does her usual excellent job with this one. It can't have been easy, but she managed to find a distinctive voice for each of the Noirot sisters.
Kate Reading does her usual excellent job with this one. It can't have been easy, but she managed to find a distinctive voice for each of the Noirot sisters.
June 4, 2016
Os homens desta série, tiram-me do sério... Korror! LOL
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