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The Spinster and the Rake
Were the lines around his eyes from laughter or light living? One good look at Ronan Patrick Blakely, Marquis of Herrington, and Gillian Redford thought she knew the answer.
This knight in tarnished armor, who had rescued her from a coach accident, now presumed to pluck her from her straitlaced life and send her to perdition! He was clearly a rogue, a rake with a dangerous gleam in his eye, determined to chase the last vestiges of propriety from her starchy life. Did she dare accept the challenge? She was thirty--old enough to know better. Old enough, he said, to kick up her heels and let the devil take the hindmost!
This knight in tarnished armor, who had rescued her from a coach accident, now presumed to pluck her from her straitlaced life and send her to perdition! He was clearly a rogue, a rake with a dangerous gleam in his eye, determined to chase the last vestiges of propriety from her starchy life. Did she dare accept the challenge? She was thirty--old enough to know better. Old enough, he said, to kick up her heels and let the devil take the hindmost!
162 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 1, 1982
About the author
Anne Stuart
207 books2,081 followersAnne Stuart is a grandmaster of the genre, winner of Romance Writers of America's prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, survivor of more than thirty-five years in the romance business, and still just keeps getting better.
Her first novel was Barrett's Hill, a gothic romance published by Ballantine in 1974 when Anne had just turned 25. Since then she's written more gothics, regencies, romantic suspense, romantic adventure, series romance, suspense, historical romance, paranormal and mainstream contemporary romance for publishers such as Doubleday, Harlequin, Silhouette, Avon, Zebra, St. Martins Press, Berkley, Dell, Pocket Books and Fawcett.
She’s won numerous awards, appeared on most bestseller lists, and speaks all over the country. Her general outrageousness has gotten her on Entertainment Tonight, as well as in Vogue, People, USA Today, Women’s Day and countless other national newspapers and magazines.
When she’s not traveling, she’s at home in Northern Vermont with her luscious husband of thirty-six years, an empty nest, three cats, four sewing machines, and one Springer Spaniel, and when she’s not working she’s watching movies, listening to rock and roll (preferably Japanese) and spending far too much time quilting.
Anne Stuart also writes as Kristina Douglas.
Her first novel was Barrett's Hill, a gothic romance published by Ballantine in 1974 when Anne had just turned 25. Since then she's written more gothics, regencies, romantic suspense, romantic adventure, series romance, suspense, historical romance, paranormal and mainstream contemporary romance for publishers such as Doubleday, Harlequin, Silhouette, Avon, Zebra, St. Martins Press, Berkley, Dell, Pocket Books and Fawcett.
She’s won numerous awards, appeared on most bestseller lists, and speaks all over the country. Her general outrageousness has gotten her on Entertainment Tonight, as well as in Vogue, People, USA Today, Women’s Day and countless other national newspapers and magazines.
When she’s not traveling, she’s at home in Northern Vermont with her luscious husband of thirty-six years, an empty nest, three cats, four sewing machines, and one Springer Spaniel, and when she’s not working she’s watching movies, listening to rock and roll (preferably Japanese) and spending far too much time quilting.
Anne Stuart also writes as Kristina Douglas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
July 27, 2017
First published in 1982, The Spinster and the Rake is one of Anne Stuart’s earliest Regencies, and has, sadly, been out of print for a number of years. I’ve been keen to read it ever since I became aware of its existence – I mean who doesn’t love a good rake-meets-spinster story? – and had despaired of ever finding it, but luckily it surfaced last year in a newly revised digital edition. (I can’t say what the revisions are as I haven’t read the original, but I am guessing Ms. Stuart has added a pinch or two of extra spice 😉 )
This is one of those books that is exactly what it says on the tin, and very nicely done it is, too. Our rake, Ronan Patrick Blakely, Lord Marlowe (who is the Marquess of Herrington so I’m not sure where the Marlowe comes from) is nearing forty, has been away from England since he was packed off by his family following a scandal twenty years earlier and, having unexpectedly inherited a title, has returned to England with the intention of remaining there. His bearing, looks and manner of speech reminded me very much of Georgette Heyer’s Lord Damerel (who is my favourite hero of hers, and one of my all-time favourite romance heroes) and I defy anyone not to swoon at the author’s description of him:
“From the top of Marlowe’s curly head, black locks liberally streaked with grey, past the cynical dark eyes surrounded by tiny lines of dissipation, and just possibly laughter, the sallow complexion of one who has spent a great many years in sunnier climes, the strong nose and cynical, alarmingly attractive mouth, he was truly, wickedly appealing.”
Be still my beating heart 😉
The spinster of the title is Miss Gillian Redfern, youngest of four siblings and the only one to remain unmarried. At nearly thirty, Gillian –
… had long since decided, with a great deal of persuasion from the aforementioned siblings, to immolate herself on the altar of duty, having a great deal of family reeling and a dislike of being useless.
She divides her time between her brother’s home in London and her sister, Patricia’s in Winchester, acting in both cases as nurse, nanny, companion, gofer, peacemaker and voice of reason; and it’s on her journey from Winchester to London that she first encounters Lord Marlowe, when the dilapidated coach her brother has sent to collect her suffers a broken axle and is thrown into a ditch. Fortunately for Gillian, another vehicle is close behind and its occupants stop to help, offering to convey her to her destination; the fact that the two travellers within are male gives her some pause, but she’s too long out of the schoolroom to be missish about it, and accepts their offer. One of the gentlemen, Vivian Peacock, is more than a little the worse for wear, while his companion, Lord Marlowe is quite the most sinfully attractive man Gillian has ever met.
No prizes for guessing where this is going, but Ms. Stuart does a fabulous job of building the relationship between these two, showing how Gillian gradually comes out of her shell and decides it’s time for her to live for herself for a change, while Marlowe tells himself that he’s doing Gillian a favour by flirting with her and giving her a taste of life beyond anything she’s known. He thinks he’s more than capable of handling the strong attraction he feels for Gillian and promises himself he won’t break her heart; he’ll just bruise it a little, and then she’ll be ready to move on to some other gentleman who will make her happy in the long term. Oh, Marlowe. Very much a man of the world and yet so clueless.
Both characters are engaging and very likeable. Marlowe has returned to England older and much wiser and I liked his practical, no-nonsense outlook. He doesn’t talk down to Gillian or dismiss her intellect; in fact he does the opposite, he solicits her opinions and takes her seriously, something it takes her a little while to adjust to at first, given the way her stuffed-shirt of a brother has always insisted on running her life. And even though Gillian has somehow fallen into the role of general factotum for her brother and indolent sister-in-law, she is far from a downtrodden poor relation. She has money of her own, a lively sense of the ridiculous and her grown-up niece and nephew, both of whom have important secondary roles to play in the story, obviously adore her for her lively wit and common sense.
Of course, there have to be a few hiccups along the road to happily ever after, and I admit the final twist, in which we discover the reason for Marlowe’s reluctance to marry Gillian, was a surprise I didn’t see coming. It does all resolve fairly easily, of course, as it happens quite near the end of the book, but by then I was so invested in Marlowe and his Gillyflower making a go of it that I was more than happy to just go with the flow.
The Spinster and the Rake is a quick, entertaining read that very skilfully treads a well-worn path. If, like me, you enjoy this particular trope, then I’m sure you won’t be disappointed if you pick it up.
This is one of those books that is exactly what it says on the tin, and very nicely done it is, too. Our rake, Ronan Patrick Blakely, Lord Marlowe (who is the Marquess of Herrington so I’m not sure where the Marlowe comes from) is nearing forty, has been away from England since he was packed off by his family following a scandal twenty years earlier and, having unexpectedly inherited a title, has returned to England with the intention of remaining there. His bearing, looks and manner of speech reminded me very much of Georgette Heyer’s Lord Damerel (who is my favourite hero of hers, and one of my all-time favourite romance heroes) and I defy anyone not to swoon at the author’s description of him:
“From the top of Marlowe’s curly head, black locks liberally streaked with grey, past the cynical dark eyes surrounded by tiny lines of dissipation, and just possibly laughter, the sallow complexion of one who has spent a great many years in sunnier climes, the strong nose and cynical, alarmingly attractive mouth, he was truly, wickedly appealing.”
Be still my beating heart 😉
The spinster of the title is Miss Gillian Redfern, youngest of four siblings and the only one to remain unmarried. At nearly thirty, Gillian –
… had long since decided, with a great deal of persuasion from the aforementioned siblings, to immolate herself on the altar of duty, having a great deal of family reeling and a dislike of being useless.
She divides her time between her brother’s home in London and her sister, Patricia’s in Winchester, acting in both cases as nurse, nanny, companion, gofer, peacemaker and voice of reason; and it’s on her journey from Winchester to London that she first encounters Lord Marlowe, when the dilapidated coach her brother has sent to collect her suffers a broken axle and is thrown into a ditch. Fortunately for Gillian, another vehicle is close behind and its occupants stop to help, offering to convey her to her destination; the fact that the two travellers within are male gives her some pause, but she’s too long out of the schoolroom to be missish about it, and accepts their offer. One of the gentlemen, Vivian Peacock, is more than a little the worse for wear, while his companion, Lord Marlowe is quite the most sinfully attractive man Gillian has ever met.
No prizes for guessing where this is going, but Ms. Stuart does a fabulous job of building the relationship between these two, showing how Gillian gradually comes out of her shell and decides it’s time for her to live for herself for a change, while Marlowe tells himself that he’s doing Gillian a favour by flirting with her and giving her a taste of life beyond anything she’s known. He thinks he’s more than capable of handling the strong attraction he feels for Gillian and promises himself he won’t break her heart; he’ll just bruise it a little, and then she’ll be ready to move on to some other gentleman who will make her happy in the long term. Oh, Marlowe. Very much a man of the world and yet so clueless.
Both characters are engaging and very likeable. Marlowe has returned to England older and much wiser and I liked his practical, no-nonsense outlook. He doesn’t talk down to Gillian or dismiss her intellect; in fact he does the opposite, he solicits her opinions and takes her seriously, something it takes her a little while to adjust to at first, given the way her stuffed-shirt of a brother has always insisted on running her life. And even though Gillian has somehow fallen into the role of general factotum for her brother and indolent sister-in-law, she is far from a downtrodden poor relation. She has money of her own, a lively sense of the ridiculous and her grown-up niece and nephew, both of whom have important secondary roles to play in the story, obviously adore her for her lively wit and common sense.
Of course, there have to be a few hiccups along the road to happily ever after, and I admit the final twist, in which we discover the reason for Marlowe’s reluctance to marry Gillian, was a surprise I didn’t see coming. It does all resolve fairly easily, of course, as it happens quite near the end of the book, but by then I was so invested in Marlowe and his Gillyflower making a go of it that I was more than happy to just go with the flow.
The Spinster and the Rake is a quick, entertaining read that very skilfully treads a well-worn path. If, like me, you enjoy this particular trope, then I’m sure you won’t be disappointed if you pick it up.
November 29, 2021
I've been reading Ms. Stuart older works and I have to say this one was so much better than The Houseparty. It's pretty cliche, but bear in mind that this was written in the 80s.
The heroine, Gillian is a spinster at 30 and she is serving as a sort of governess for her siblings. We've been told that she has money, but she needed to feel useful, hence, what better way than minding your siblings' children without pay (I don't get this, if you have money hence, you're not a poor relation, why not just set up your own household? Maybe it wasn't a done thing back then). Enter Ronan, who was banished from England due to a planned elopement with a married lady. Ronan came back to England when he assumed the title. He met Gilly when her carriage broke down and it was a chance encounter. His sneaky friend, Vivian made a wager with him. If Ronan could seduce Gilly, he would win 1000 pounds. Ronan only wanted to bruise her a bit, not go all the way. He was honourable in his own way. The thing is he was attracted to her from the get go. There's also a secondary romance involving Gilly's niece, Felicity and a poor vicar, Liam. The secondary romance wasn't terribly interesting, but I believe this was imperative to the story since some of the scenes were only plausible with Felicity's and Liam's romance.
Ronan wasn't much of an anti-hero as Ms. Stuart other heroes. He was just a rake. Gilly was a typical spinster. Well fleshed out characters.
I do have a quibble, a minor one. The Americanism is obvious when the characters were partaking coffee, instead of tea. I don't believe coffee is a British thing. I believe tea was always the favoured British beverage (I might be wrong here, not being a Brit myself, but this is the impression that I got from the hundreds of historical romances that I've read).
Even though this book is shorter than your average historical romance novels, it's pretty packed. I would recommend this book to any Ms. Stuart fans.
The heroine, Gillian is a spinster at 30 and she is serving as a sort of governess for her siblings. We've been told that she has money, but she needed to feel useful, hence, what better way than minding your siblings' children without pay (I don't get this, if you have money hence, you're not a poor relation, why not just set up your own household? Maybe it wasn't a done thing back then). Enter Ronan, who was banished from England due to a planned elopement with a married lady. Ronan came back to England when he assumed the title. He met Gilly when her carriage broke down and it was a chance encounter. His sneaky friend, Vivian made a wager with him. If Ronan could seduce Gilly, he would win 1000 pounds. Ronan only wanted to bruise her a bit, not go all the way. He was honourable in his own way. The thing is he was attracted to her from the get go. There's also a secondary romance involving Gilly's niece, Felicity and a poor vicar, Liam. The secondary romance wasn't terribly interesting, but I believe this was imperative to the story since some of the scenes were only plausible with Felicity's and Liam's romance.
Ronan wasn't much of an anti-hero as Ms. Stuart other heroes. He was just a rake. Gilly was a typical spinster. Well fleshed out characters.
I do have a quibble, a minor one. The Americanism is obvious when the characters were partaking coffee, instead of tea. I don't believe coffee is a British thing. I believe tea was always the favoured British beverage (I might be wrong here, not being a Brit myself, but this is the impression that I got from the hundreds of historical romances that I've read).
Even though this book is shorter than your average historical romance novels, it's pretty packed. I would recommend this book to any Ms. Stuart fans.
August 29, 2016
It's official Anne Stuart is not for me.
I truly don't like her heroes. They are just not for me. I want the H to be true once he sets his eyes on the h and no one else. While this book didn't show it it was still there. Buying clothes for a woman, swearing off all proper ladies, everything. then his bet and everything else conspired to make this a troubling read. I liked the h but I just can't believe that he loved her or the HEA. He said no more 'wenching' so I guess it could happen but it won't make me try another one of her books. The Ice series was awful to me and I tried a couple of her old HPs and none of them worked. I know she is beloved and I think she writes extremely well but I must pass. I wish I could unread this book. It upset me for some outlandish reason. And honestly it wasn't that bad. I have read far worse. I may need to go read a Garwood again just so I feel better.
I truly don't like her heroes. They are just not for me. I want the H to be true once he sets his eyes on the h and no one else. While this book didn't show it it was still there. Buying clothes for a woman, swearing off all proper ladies, everything. then his bet and everything else conspired to make this a troubling read. I liked the h but I just can't believe that he loved her or the HEA. He said no more 'wenching' so I guess it could happen but it won't make me try another one of her books. The Ice series was awful to me and I tried a couple of her old HPs and none of them worked. I know she is beloved and I think she writes extremely well but I must pass. I wish I could unread this book. It upset me for some outlandish reason. And honestly it wasn't that bad. I have read far worse. I may need to go read a Garwood again just so I feel better.
October 25, 2016
A sweet story with an older rake and an older lady than the normal schoolroom maiden. It is a sweet story that can stretch through several generations. this book was first released in the 80's and with revamping, Anne Stuart is reissuing. I was provided this book to read through Netgalley and am providing an honest review. It was a good and quick read.
Nothing world breaking just an old fashioned Rake and spinster story, but it was really a good read. I liked the characters a lot. I liked their vocabulary and their flirtation. I did not like the part where the terrible truth came out as it caused so much hurt. Yet, the book was a really good read with lots of detail and personality. I liked Ronan and Gillian. I liked how they progressed and changed during the story. It really was a good retelling. It felt new and modern.
Nothing world breaking just an old fashioned Rake and spinster story, but it was really a good read. I liked the characters a lot. I liked their vocabulary and their flirtation. I did not like the part where the terrible truth came out as it caused so much hurt. Yet, the book was a really good read with lots of detail and personality. I liked Ronan and Gillian. I liked how they progressed and changed during the story. It really was a good retelling. It felt new and modern.
April 26, 2018
I'm probably the only one who thinks this way, but doesn't the Rake and hero (cover model on the ebook) look a little frightened at being in the clutches of the heroine, the Spinster? LOL. It's ironic since it isn't reflective of Ronan's feelings for Gillian, but I digress.
This was a lighthearted Regency romp very much in the vein of Georgette Heyer, with the noticeable exception of sex (I read the revised ebook). Even updated, I could definitely tell it's an early offering by the author and the evidence is in the pudding, er, wordy writing.
I liked both protagonists overall and enjoyed their banter and chemistry, but I didn't like how Gillian let Ronan off the hook so easily for his part in a wager involving her. He didn't grovel and, worse, Gillian returned to him with no effort on his part! Grr. (This plot point is typical of the author's writing, but when her heroes act this bad I can usually forgive them IF they prove to be super smitten. Here, not as much. He was smitten but not overly so.) Also, I thought Ronan was really dumb for putting so much trust in the villain, who, by the way, didn't suffer any consequences for his evil-doings.
While I had some quibbles with the characterizations, I had no issues with the secondary romance between Gillian's spirited niece and a noble vicar, which actually rivaled the main romance in terms of angst and romance.
This isn't one of Anne Stuart's best, but I still enjoyed it.
This was a lighthearted Regency romp very much in the vein of Georgette Heyer, with the noticeable exception of sex (I read the revised ebook). Even updated, I could definitely tell it's an early offering by the author and the evidence is in the pudding, er, wordy writing.
I liked both protagonists overall and enjoyed their banter and chemistry, but I didn't like how Gillian let Ronan off the hook so easily for his part in a wager involving her. He didn't grovel and, worse, Gillian returned to him with no effort on his part! Grr. (This plot point is typical of the author's writing, but when her heroes act this bad I can usually forgive them IF they prove to be super smitten. Here, not as much. He was smitten but not overly so.) Also, I thought Ronan was really dumb for putting so much trust in the villain, who, by the way, didn't suffer any consequences for his evil-doings.
While I had some quibbles with the characterizations, I had no issues with the secondary romance between Gillian's spirited niece and a noble vicar, which actually rivaled the main romance in terms of angst and romance.
This isn't one of Anne Stuart's best, but I still enjoyed it.
January 15, 2021
The spinster is no plain-flower and the rake has a heart after all.
And the wager with the (shady) friend was so obviously going to come back and bite him.
But then some hiccups/pitfalls in the story do make for a better romance.
And the wager with the (shady) friend was so obviously going to come back and bite him.
But then some hiccups/pitfalls in the story do make for a better romance.
May 13, 2019
"The Spinster and the Rake" is the story of Gillian and Ronan.
Our h is Gillian Redford, almost 30 year old spinster, who spends her days being shuffled between her siblings taking care of their offsprings, kind of like an unpaid servant. She is strong, sarcastic, yet strictly off the shelf.
Her monotonous life takes a turn when Ronan Patrick Blakely, Marquis of Herrington, and a notorious rake returns back to ton, and after rescuing her from a broken carriage, takes an interest in her.
His motives, however, and much to her oblivion, are dubious.
Maybe it's the revenge he wants to take from her brother for sending him away, maybe it's the bet he made with his friend to seduce her. The bottom line, he cannot stay away from her.
Their courtship is riddled with objections from her family, her pompous brother and wife, their bratty daughter (who herself is obstinate and in love with a vicar) and the truth itself.
Will their emerging love transcend social inhibitions?
Overall, it kept me hooked, but I felt the last 3/4th was VERY rushed. The hero was charming at times, the heroine was likable (not sure I liked her crying though). Im also not a huge fan of heroes not groveling in the end, and heroines having to chase them down when they drown their sorrows in alcohol. So because of that, an average read.
Safe
3/5
P.S. The cover page with her in green and him in all his glory, in his gaming club, is so accurate and amazing!
Our h is Gillian Redford, almost 30 year old spinster, who spends her days being shuffled between her siblings taking care of their offsprings, kind of like an unpaid servant. She is strong, sarcastic, yet strictly off the shelf.
Her monotonous life takes a turn when Ronan Patrick Blakely, Marquis of Herrington, and a notorious rake returns back to ton, and after rescuing her from a broken carriage, takes an interest in her.
His motives, however, and much to her oblivion, are dubious.
Maybe it's the revenge he wants to take from her brother for sending him away, maybe it's the bet he made with his friend to seduce her. The bottom line, he cannot stay away from her.
Their courtship is riddled with objections from her family, her pompous brother and wife, their bratty daughter (who herself is obstinate and in love with a vicar) and the truth itself.
Will their emerging love transcend social inhibitions?
Overall, it kept me hooked, but I felt the last 3/4th was VERY rushed. The hero was charming at times, the heroine was likable (not sure I liked her crying though). Im also not a huge fan of heroes not groveling in the end, and heroines having to chase them down when they drown their sorrows in alcohol. So because of that, an average read.
Safe
3/5
P.S. The cover page with her in green and him in all his glory, in his gaming club, is so accurate and amazing!
September 14, 2018
It was OK. A bit disappointing. Not really my cup of tea. Written ages ago (1980s?) but apparently updated to include another chapter in 2016 (the sex scene I presume). The book's clearly copying the style of Georgette Heyer. (Or, to be a little kinder, an homage to Heyer's style). The writer uses lots of the same vocabulary and similar character types to Heyer. And an attempt at a similar style plot. But sadly, for me it has none of the charm of Heyer's writing. It seems like what (IMO) it is - a rather watery, poor imitation.
The sex scene seems a little odd and out of place to me in this book. It seemed unnecessary. I presume it's to add some appeal for modern readers with our racier tastes. But actually, I still adore Georgette Heyer's books, because sexy or no, her brilliant writing carries them, and it's easy to fill in the (sexy) gaps in our imaginations.
So, I personally won't be going back for a second look at Ms Stuart's books. But there are doubtless those who enjoy them, and that's fine. We're all looking for different things and this author's just not for me.
BTW I read a comment someone made about the bored look on the H's face on the cover of this edition. Now I look closely I see exactly what they meant. That's hilarious. Perhaps he's meant to look like the bored, cynical rake, but he just looks bored. LOL.
The sex scene seems a little odd and out of place to me in this book. It seemed unnecessary. I presume it's to add some appeal for modern readers with our racier tastes. But actually, I still adore Georgette Heyer's books, because sexy or no, her brilliant writing carries them, and it's easy to fill in the (sexy) gaps in our imaginations.
So, I personally won't be going back for a second look at Ms Stuart's books. But there are doubtless those who enjoy them, and that's fine. We're all looking for different things and this author's just not for me.
BTW I read a comment someone made about the bored look on the H's face on the cover of this edition. Now I look closely I see exactly what they meant. That's hilarious. Perhaps he's meant to look like the bored, cynical rake, but he just looks bored. LOL.
November 18, 2008
I was actually expecting The Spinster and The Rake to be a sort of To Love a Dark Lord but in short format. I have no idea why I thought that, I should have remembered that Stuart has many different voices and the fact is that TSaTR is a light and fun regency romance, not to be taken too seriously but certain to leave you with a smile on your face.
Gillian is a confirmed spinster. She is nearing 30 and she spends much of her time taking care of her brother and sister’s children alternating between one home and the other, as she is needed. One day while she is travelling to her brother’s house in London her carriage suffers an accident and she is saved by Lord Marlowe, a confirmed rake with whom her brother shares some past history.
Marlowe is highly entertained by Gilly, who he at first believed to be some kind of servant. When he finds out she is the sister of his old enemy, Lord Redfern, he has no problems accepting a wager from his friend Vivian that he can seduce her.
The problem though is that Marlowe is not the hardened and unfeeling rake that his actions might make him seem. He is actually rather nice and easygoing and it’s not difficult to like. He starts approaching Gilly and takes her to his gaming hell or at balls he convinces her to dance with him more than the proverbial two times allowed.
As Gilly falls for Marlowe so Marlowe falls for Gilly, there are a few problems though on their way to happiness as Marlowe is not ready to ruin Gilly after all but can’t offer marriage. There’s wonderful banter between the Gilly and Marlowe and there’s also a bit of a villain and a visit from the past to help them in the right direction. Of course, in the end Gilly still has to save Marlowe from himself, what would a rake do without a good woman to make him change is ways?
Grade: 4.5/5
Gillian is a confirmed spinster. She is nearing 30 and she spends much of her time taking care of her brother and sister’s children alternating between one home and the other, as she is needed. One day while she is travelling to her brother’s house in London her carriage suffers an accident and she is saved by Lord Marlowe, a confirmed rake with whom her brother shares some past history.
Marlowe is highly entertained by Gilly, who he at first believed to be some kind of servant. When he finds out she is the sister of his old enemy, Lord Redfern, he has no problems accepting a wager from his friend Vivian that he can seduce her.
The problem though is that Marlowe is not the hardened and unfeeling rake that his actions might make him seem. He is actually rather nice and easygoing and it’s not difficult to like. He starts approaching Gilly and takes her to his gaming hell or at balls he convinces her to dance with him more than the proverbial two times allowed.
As Gilly falls for Marlowe so Marlowe falls for Gilly, there are a few problems though on their way to happiness as Marlowe is not ready to ruin Gilly after all but can’t offer marriage. There’s wonderful banter between the Gilly and Marlowe and there’s also a bit of a villain and a visit from the past to help them in the right direction. Of course, in the end Gilly still has to save Marlowe from himself, what would a rake do without a good woman to make him change is ways?
Grade: 4.5/5
January 7, 2019
A lighthearted romp from Anne Stuart
Rake H bets his dissolute slob of a friend that he will seduce the spinster h before season ends.
In his mind, H is trying to 'help' h who is a typical AS martyr who has sacrificed herself on the family altar
H was a true rake; he had tried to run away with h's brothers wife 20 years ago and was banished. He owned a gaming hell in Vienna and opens one in London
h, for all her spinsterish ways, is remarkably spirited and has an irrepressible niece (who gets her own HEA with a Lorn Byronish vicar).
While I feel that H didn't apologise near enough for wagering on seducing h, I do feel that martyr Gillian needed to be seduced; simply because she had wasted her life on her family and looking after all the children and tolerating lecherous brother-in-laws, which is irritating; she had plenty money of her own and there was no need for her to play the family doormat role
It is also becoming obvious, well before the seduction scene, that H is falling for the h ...
All in all a fun read ...
Rake H bets his dissolute slob of a friend that he will seduce the spinster h before season ends.
In his mind, H is trying to 'help' h who is a typical AS martyr who has sacrificed herself on the family altar
H was a true rake; he had tried to run away with h's brothers wife 20 years ago and was banished. He owned a gaming hell in Vienna and opens one in London
h, for all her spinsterish ways, is remarkably spirited and has an irrepressible niece (who gets her own HEA with a Lorn Byronish vicar).
While I feel that H didn't apologise near enough for wagering on seducing h, I do feel that martyr Gillian needed to be seduced; simply because she had wasted her life on her family and looking after all the children and tolerating lecherous brother-in-laws, which is irritating; she had plenty money of her own and there was no need for her to play the family doormat role
It is also becoming obvious, well before the seduction scene, that H is falling for the h ...
All in all a fun read ...
May 1, 2017
Paperback version and kindle version are different (added a chapter that wasn't in the paperback). Paperback is a clean version. Kindle version added a whole chapter that is rated R.
September 14, 2018
I absolutely adored the beginning! It felt like an homage to Georgette Heyer's classic romances, and it had all the bickering and fun!
"I take leave to tell you, my dear Miss Redfern, that I am accepted just about everywhere nowadays. I am a veritable pillar of society. You would hardly be so cruel as to deny a reformed rake such as me of your ennobling companionship?" The laughter in his voice was dangerously beguling. "Idiot!" She laughed reluctantly.
These two had some serious chemistry. The bickering was delicious, and I had so much fun with them!
BUT
Then came the dreaded second half. Oh the horror! It hit all my pet peeves and then some.
The sex scene:
It felt to me like it was added at a later date? It didn't really fit with the rest of the story for me, it sort of threw everything off balance for me.
Also, there was the language. I thought it was really old-fashioned, to the point of making me cringe:
"You must have a lot of practice at this," she said, trying to sound normal beneath the hitching of her breath. "You'll thank me for that later."
"Are you going to hurt me?" she whispered, unable to hide her trepidation ... "A little bit, I'm afraid." ... "All ... right," she agreeed, still game but slightly doubtful. She'd felt pain before ... She could survive this.
"What?" She stammered. "That's not what you're supposed to do!" "Who's the expert at this?" he said in a low, beguiling voice. "You're just lucky I don't go use my mouth this time."
"I'll try not to hurt you." She could hardly protest, not after the astonishing thing he had done for her.
He was moving faster now, hammering into her, and she took him greedily.
The last-minute drama:
While the first half was absolutely delightful, the ending fell really really flat for me.
I have no idea who thought that was a nice idea of a twist, but I absolutely hated it. It was such a big WTF moment, that I just couldn't get over. And compared to all that Drama, the reconciliation just fell flat for me.
So, all in all, I loved the first half, but really hated the end. But who knows! Might just be my hatred for any sort of drama that stopped me from loving all of this.
3.5 stars
"I take leave to tell you, my dear Miss Redfern, that I am accepted just about everywhere nowadays. I am a veritable pillar of society. You would hardly be so cruel as to deny a reformed rake such as me of your ennobling companionship?" The laughter in his voice was dangerously beguling. "Idiot!" She laughed reluctantly.
These two had some serious chemistry. The bickering was delicious, and I had so much fun with them!
BUT
Then came the dreaded second half. Oh the horror! It hit all my pet peeves and then some.
The sex scene:
It felt to me like it was added at a later date? It didn't really fit with the rest of the story for me, it sort of threw everything off balance for me.
Also, there was the language. I thought it was really old-fashioned, to the point of making me cringe:
"You must have a lot of practice at this," she said, trying to sound normal beneath the hitching of her breath. "You'll thank me for that later."
"Are you going to hurt me?" she whispered, unable to hide her trepidation ... "A little bit, I'm afraid." ... "All ... right," she agreeed, still game but slightly doubtful. She'd felt pain before ... She could survive this.
"What?" She stammered. "That's not what you're supposed to do!" "Who's the expert at this?" he said in a low, beguiling voice. "You're just lucky I don't go use my mouth this time."
"I'll try not to hurt you." She could hardly protest, not after the astonishing thing he had done for her.
He was moving faster now, hammering into her, and she took him greedily.
The last-minute drama:
While the first half was absolutely delightful, the ending fell really really flat for me.
I have no idea who thought that was a nice idea of a twist, but I absolutely hated it. It was such a big WTF moment, that I just couldn't get over. And compared to all that Drama, the reconciliation just fell flat for me.
So, all in all, I loved the first half, but really hated the end. But who knows! Might just be my hatred for any sort of drama that stopped me from loving all of this.
3.5 stars
October 6, 2016
ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What makes an author stand the test of time? Why is it that some authors have such prolific careers and others simply write a few books and are never heard from again? I believe that there are certain keys that answer those questions and the Anne Stuart has them firmly in hand. The Spinster and the Rake is a really good example as to why. This is a re-issue of an older Regency Romance and yet it stands the test of time very well. It was written at a time when historical-romance was the thing and yet Anne Stuart was able to move with the times and become one of the very best in romantic-suspense too. She has a formula that I just love: wicked heroes, wonderful heroines with grit and a this veneer of humor and mystery to bind it all together. No one writes a bad boy like Anne Stuart.
Gillian Redfern (the Spinster) has spent her life tending her siblings' children. She is now 30 years old and is basically an unpaid nanny. She has financial means, bur society and her family, frowns on her being independent.
Ronan Patrick Blakely, Lord Marlow (the Rake) was banished from the country 20 years ago for trifling with the wrong married woman. He has returned a more mature man but his past indiscretions are still dogging him.
When Gillian's coach overturns, Ronan and a friend, Vivian, rescue her. The sparks fly and after Gillian is delivered to her home, Ronan and Vivian enter into a friendly "gentlemen's" wager. Ronan is to prove he is still an irresistible hunk by seducing Gillian.
What makes an author stand the test of time? Why is it that some authors have such prolific careers and others simply write a few books and are never heard from again? I believe that there are certain keys that answer those questions and the Anne Stuart has them firmly in hand. The Spinster and the Rake is a really good example as to why. This is a re-issue of an older Regency Romance and yet it stands the test of time very well. It was written at a time when historical-romance was the thing and yet Anne Stuart was able to move with the times and become one of the very best in romantic-suspense too. She has a formula that I just love: wicked heroes, wonderful heroines with grit and a this veneer of humor and mystery to bind it all together. No one writes a bad boy like Anne Stuart.
Gillian Redfern (the Spinster) has spent her life tending her siblings' children. She is now 30 years old and is basically an unpaid nanny. She has financial means, bur society and her family, frowns on her being independent.
Ronan Patrick Blakely, Lord Marlow (the Rake) was banished from the country 20 years ago for trifling with the wrong married woman. He has returned a more mature man but his past indiscretions are still dogging him.
When Gillian's coach overturns, Ronan and a friend, Vivian, rescue her. The sparks fly and after Gillian is delivered to her home, Ronan and Vivian enter into a friendly "gentlemen's" wager. Ronan is to prove he is still an irresistible hunk by seducing Gillian.
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September 16, 2017
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts... for more, visit Punya Reviews...
I’ve read and heard many good things about Anne Stuart’s books over the years, which definitely made me wanna read her books. But hers is such a daunting backlist that I wasn’t sure where to freakin’ start! Until recently, I, kind of on a whim, bought one of her latest reissue of an oldie called The Spinster and the Rake. The straight-forward title intrigued me and I liked the blurb cause spinsters and wallflowers are my favorites (by now, I’d be called both if I was living in that era :P). Rakes aren’t my favorite by any stretch of the word BUT an author can make me fall unquestionably in love with one. It has happened so I still take chances on them.
I read Anne Stuart’s rakes are moody and broody… sometimes seriously bad. Something told me she knows what she’s doing, so I went with that instinct and wanted to find out what havoc this latest rake in is wrecking. ;) Our hero, Ronan Blakely, the newly minted Marquess of Herrington, used to be what you’d call the proverbial ‘blacksheep’ of his family. His womanizing was so bad, at one point, when he tried to be off with a married woman someone had to step in. He was made to leave the country at the age of 22. Since then he’s had his share of fun in various European countries including France and Italy (latter is my assumption but no doubt he’s visited many other places too). He was not in the line of any succession but fate worked his way, and he’s back to the bosom of le bon Ton with a new title, and more money than he could possibly know what to do with. After 20 yrs., even with more than a few gray hairs peeking, Ronan Blakely is still as dashing and as devastating as he used to be at 22. And he knows just what to do with all he’s got; open a gambling club with the money and use his suave charm to operate it. Oooh, did anyone say Derek Craven? *imagine heart-eyes here*
But I digress... Let’s talk about our h.
Gillian Redfern is the youngest of all Redferns. She has one elder brother, who is more of a bother than anything else and two meek, sad elder sisters. Gillian is the only spinster at 30yrs. of age, now the ‘favorite aunt’ of many of her unknown but quite the overwhelming number of nieces and nephews. Gillian is, well, she’s not a beauty but not unattractive either. So I never knew why she never bothered to get married. These days, she shifts her time between siblings, living at their home, mainly as an unpaid servant. She takes care of the household and the children. But it’s her brother’s residence where she’s always needed. Derwent is as ill-tempered as they come. He’s also nothing less than a bully and Gillian despises him. But she has to be mostly here cause her sister’s residences aren’t any better than Derwent’s; if anything, worse. Plus when he summons, he expects Gillian to run back, no question asked. Sadly, Gillian could never muster the courage to weather Derwent’s wrath in all these year. After everything said and done, Derwent does take care of her.
So when, one day returning from one of her sister’s houses, Gillian is trapped in the rickety carriage given to her service by her pinch-penny of a BIL, what were the odds that she’d end up meeting Ronan Blakely? After all, she doesn’t go out much, even if she does she likes blending with the wallpapers, and he likes avoiding the Ton as much as possible, though it’s proving to be difficult because of his newly garnered title. Most mamas who would’ve kept their precious daughters away because of his reputation with women, now consider him what you’d call ‘prime meat’, doesn’t matter said daughter is fresh out of school-room and too young for a man of Ronan’s age and sophistication. But no matter, Ronan had to take a wet and shivering Gillian in case it was dark and raining, and she was alone standing on the road because the carriage turned a wheel. On the way back to London, two things happen. Gillian discovers the most attractive man she’d ever set her eyes on, and immediately began the process of being infatuated with him, while Ronan’s friend Vivian, who was accompanying them, started planning a wager to which Ronan agreed to later. Ronan was, though, completely unaware who Gillian was but she knew who he was from a drunk and chatty Vivian, who hadn’t taken much time to espouse on Ronan’s legendary reputation as a ladies’ man. Gillian also recognized him from that long ago scandal that people still whisper about. His new status, of course, now makes him completely clear of any ‘whimsies’ of his younger years. But oh Lord, he’s divine and Gillian is thoroughly besotted.
Though Gillian would’ve loved to keep her identity a secret, hence making Ronan think she’s a maid or at least, a governess of a house by her appearance and out of fashion dress, it was not to be so. They found Derwent waiting for her on the doorstep and any thought of hiding from Ronan Blakely or hide him from her volatile brother flew Gillian’s mind. She had no interest of introducing the two either but that wasn’t necessary. Apparently, both knew each-other quite well; so much so Derwent was spitting mad that Gillian was in his company, whereas Ronan held on his usual indifferent calmness. Gillian had no idea what happened but obviously there was a history somewhere. It was proven as much, when Derwent vehemently asked Gillian to never, ever talk to or acknowledge Ronan ever again in her life. The old Gillian probably would’ve been cowed and meekly listened to his brother. However the ‘new’ Gillian was in deep infatuation with Ronan Blakely’s dark good-looks and that quirky but rare smile. He must be the most excited thing that ever happened in her life, who is Derwent to keep her away from him? After all, she was a ‘hardened’ spinster and has no need to really be concerned about her reputation.
In the meantime, Ronan was also quite intrigued by this meek hen he just met. No idea why, but he couldn’t keep her out of his head. But that wouldn’t do. He isn’t going to involve himself into Derwent Redfern’s business once again. He’s older and, likes to believe, much more matured that he was before. But when Vivian approached with a bet that he can’t compromise the reputation of the honorable Miss Gillian Redfern within the few weeks, Ronan only smiled and accepted the challenge. He was growing bored even with the workload of the new gambling house he’d opened. He needed some new and fresh distractions. Gillian Redfern seemed ripe, quite ready to be plucked. Game on!
Of course, Gillian had no idea what was going on. She was too busy keeping Derwent’s eldest daughter, Felicity in check. At 18, Felicity is a stunning beauty and the toast of the Ton. Gillian has no idea how can two rather very normal looking parents (neither Derwent nor his obese wife, Letty were lookers if I have to go by the hints in the book) created this stunning flower. However, Felicity was also pretty air-headed and stubborn. And she’s been in love with a village vicar (albeit super good-looking vicar) since she turned 15. Derwent had already dismissed Liam Blackstone as unsuitable as ever, which the suitor himself had accepted and backed off, devoting himself in God’s work here in London. However, there was no stopping Felicity who was quite mad for Liam and wouldn’t marry anyone. She was blindly devoted to him, even though he’s been trying his best to push her away. Though he wanted her, Liam wasn’t brave enough take any steps, neither did he have any money to do anything about it. He’d already began considering her a distraction to his work. But if you know Felicity, you know she will find a way to visit him whenever she can, however she can, using her own beauty and charm, if it means manipulating people along the way. So you can say Gillian had her hands quite full of that one bubblehead, let alone 1000s of other chore she had to maintain cause all Letty liked doing all day was to lie in the settee, act ill and eat chocolate, then sigh tragically over...whatever it was. The complications that Lord Marlowe aroused within her were something she didn’t know if she could handle at that point. She kept telling herself he can’t be of any good to her in any way imaginable; neither to her reputation nor her peace of mind. But when he kept turning up everywhere she went, how could she keep her mind in check of the dashing and intense Lord Marlowe?
Most of the story takes place from Gillian’s side so it was more than obvious that she was crazy for Ronan within a few weeks. His stolen kisses and touches weren’t doing much help either, especially for an innocent like her who only dreamt of such things. It’s true that Ronan pointed out how misused she was in the hands of her family (no one took Gillian seriously, except for when they needed her for something...even Felicity was like that). Also that she spends more time taking care of other people’s children than think of herself. Gillian knew the truth but what could she do? She also, deep inside, knew that an affair with him will go nowhere but an utter ruination of her. But she was a moth to a flame and couldn’t help falling for Ronan. Soon enough, Gillian was hopelessly in love with a man who has never promised anything to her, but has, many times, expressed how much he despised marriage. That he had no interest whatsoever of ever getting married.
I don’t quite remember how it happened but then one day, she ended up sleeping with him. One night to cherish for the rest of her life and all that crap. *eyeroll* By then though, Ronan was questioning the wisdom of compromising someone like Gillian, whom he already knew to be a total innocent. He liked her enough to wanting to back off at first. But he loved women and he had wanted Gillian for a long time, so he gives in. Was he still acting on that wager? At that point, neither I nor Ronan had any idea if he was. However, the next morning, Vivian stops by early and does everything in his puny power to destroy all of Gillian’s dreams and Ronan’s fragile hopes around something like happiness (maybe love too) by mentioning that wager. She was still in bed with him... *sigh* Things were about to get worse for poor Gillian. When downstairs trying to get away, she meets a flamboyant beauty. A bit older in the years than her, the woman claims to be Lady Marlowe coming to visit her husband! Oh boy!
TBH, that was the point where I kinda lost it. I mean seriously? WHAT THE HELL?? *facepalm* How much can this poor girl take? The humiliation of becoming compromised because of a wager, while thinking she’s in love? Then finding the center of her utter infatuation, and destruction, is also married? No way!!!!
Sooo, here is my take on why the last couple of chapters were the downfall of this story:
1. I did love the story until Ronan and Gillian slept together. I was enchanted by Ronan’s personality myself and was hoping the story would take a different turn. He knew his power over women. It’s one of those things some men are born with. Some use it to destroy lives while others to snare the women they love. You gotta pick and choose. But in between, when someone is willing and has no other expectations, then why not? I get that. I get that Ronan had his ‘history’, fair enough. But I also would’ve loved to have those where they belonged, in the past. I get why Gillian was infatuated but, for me, their chemistry was never quite explosive, mostly because Gillian transformed into a complete doormat. She was no match for Ronan. Also knowing that Ronan wagered about her downfall was something that never quite sat well with me. So when they slept together I was in a ‘wtf’ moment for a while. That was NOT the right moment for a one night stand or whatever. Nope.
2. In the middle of the story, at a clothing store where Gillian and Felicity were visiting, Ronan finds them. It was hinted that he was there with a woman but never revealed as to who she was. In fact, Gillian never questioned him either so everything was hushed away. From all things and considering his reputation, we can only guess that had to be his latest lover/mistress, even though throughout the author gave me an impression that he was too busy for anything else. He was also chasing Gillian with a pointed resolve. So can I safely assume that while he was chasing Gillian, he was also sleeping with other women? The thought of it is something I’d rather not contemplate at all. I’m glad Gillian was okay with it, even if it made her sad.
3. At one point of the story, when Ronan decided to twist Letty Redfern’s arms to get an acceptance out of Liam Blackstone for Felicity, I was surprised. Why would he think of Letty Redfern among all the people in the world? But not for long when he reveals that nugget of information weighed in gold. That it was because of Letty Redfern that he had to flee the country. They were lovers when Letty was young, and I can only assume, newly married to Derwent. Obviously attractive enough to catch Ronan’s fancy. That explained Derwent’s utter despise of him and Letty’s perpetual air of tragedy, even though that didn’t stop them from having gazillion children afterwards. -_- I was rather green around the gills while Gillian took the whole thing in as if it’s a quirk of some kind. That’s how Ronan is so you just go with the flow? :/ I was stunned that, while I wasn’t sure what to feel about this information AND the man himself, she talks with him as if they were chatting about the weather. She even suggests that Felicity maybe his daughter, but Ronan declines because Felicity was born least a year and a half after his departure. “Yikes!” was all I could say.
4. After her colossal humiliation, I thought Gillian would now stay the F away from Ronan. I mean, lesson Learned? Run away and never look back?! Let him chase her again, and find her, then grovel his heart out if he really felt anything for her. I wanted groveling, damnit! But oh no! A few words in favor of him from ex Lady Marlowe (they were divorced a long time ago though how Ronan wasn’t aware of it, no idea) and current Contessa Albina, and Gillian is good to go. Running to see him, then falling head over heels in love once again cause he’d drunk himself into a stupor for the past couple of days since her departure. REALLY GILLIAN?? OMG. I was like, wow! You must be really desperate honey. -_- Where is the meek, yet practical Gillian I saw in the beginning? I wanted to ask exactly why are you in love with him? He did NOTHING to show he loved you beyond the obvious. I mean, c’mon! So in the end, Ronan had to do nothing to get her back, for what he did. I don’t even remember if he said sorry, cause I was that disgusted. She simply ran back to him and that was that. I don’t even wanna think of how she kissed him while he was supposed to be drunk and out for lord knows how many days, AND I’m guessing, going without any form of cleanliness. Even a dashing rake can’t smell amazing with that routine and in that condition. Nope.
I know, I know. I’m special that way. I was, in fact, thinking of how unpleasant it would be to kiss someone like him in every sense of the word. Couldn’t help it. -_- But oh well, that was me. I wasn’t in love with Ronan so……….. *shrugs*
All in all, my first foray into Anne Staurt’s books wasn’t a smashing success. BUT I did like her writing and how she built up her characters to keep me hooked for the better part of the story, enough to check out some of her other novels. I also heard this one’s not her best but I like to judge a book after I experience it myself. This one, personally, I won’t recommend. However you may not be as bothered by Ronan’s shenanigan and Gillian’s sad transformation as I was so it’s your call. 3.5 stars.
I’ve read and heard many good things about Anne Stuart’s books over the years, which definitely made me wanna read her books. But hers is such a daunting backlist that I wasn’t sure where to freakin’ start! Until recently, I, kind of on a whim, bought one of her latest reissue of an oldie called The Spinster and the Rake. The straight-forward title intrigued me and I liked the blurb cause spinsters and wallflowers are my favorites (by now, I’d be called both if I was living in that era :P). Rakes aren’t my favorite by any stretch of the word BUT an author can make me fall unquestionably in love with one. It has happened so I still take chances on them.
I read Anne Stuart’s rakes are moody and broody… sometimes seriously bad. Something told me she knows what she’s doing, so I went with that instinct and wanted to find out what havoc this latest rake in is wrecking. ;) Our hero, Ronan Blakely, the newly minted Marquess of Herrington, used to be what you’d call the proverbial ‘blacksheep’ of his family. His womanizing was so bad, at one point, when he tried to be off with a married woman someone had to step in. He was made to leave the country at the age of 22. Since then he’s had his share of fun in various European countries including France and Italy (latter is my assumption but no doubt he’s visited many other places too). He was not in the line of any succession but fate worked his way, and he’s back to the bosom of le bon Ton with a new title, and more money than he could possibly know what to do with. After 20 yrs., even with more than a few gray hairs peeking, Ronan Blakely is still as dashing and as devastating as he used to be at 22. And he knows just what to do with all he’s got; open a gambling club with the money and use his suave charm to operate it. Oooh, did anyone say Derek Craven? *imagine heart-eyes here*
But I digress... Let’s talk about our h.
Gillian Redfern is the youngest of all Redferns. She has one elder brother, who is more of a bother than anything else and two meek, sad elder sisters. Gillian is the only spinster at 30yrs. of age, now the ‘favorite aunt’ of many of her unknown but quite the overwhelming number of nieces and nephews. Gillian is, well, she’s not a beauty but not unattractive either. So I never knew why she never bothered to get married. These days, she shifts her time between siblings, living at their home, mainly as an unpaid servant. She takes care of the household and the children. But it’s her brother’s residence where she’s always needed. Derwent is as ill-tempered as they come. He’s also nothing less than a bully and Gillian despises him. But she has to be mostly here cause her sister’s residences aren’t any better than Derwent’s; if anything, worse. Plus when he summons, he expects Gillian to run back, no question asked. Sadly, Gillian could never muster the courage to weather Derwent’s wrath in all these year. After everything said and done, Derwent does take care of her.
So when, one day returning from one of her sister’s houses, Gillian is trapped in the rickety carriage given to her service by her pinch-penny of a BIL, what were the odds that she’d end up meeting Ronan Blakely? After all, she doesn’t go out much, even if she does she likes blending with the wallpapers, and he likes avoiding the Ton as much as possible, though it’s proving to be difficult because of his newly garnered title. Most mamas who would’ve kept their precious daughters away because of his reputation with women, now consider him what you’d call ‘prime meat’, doesn’t matter said daughter is fresh out of school-room and too young for a man of Ronan’s age and sophistication. But no matter, Ronan had to take a wet and shivering Gillian in case it was dark and raining, and she was alone standing on the road because the carriage turned a wheel. On the way back to London, two things happen. Gillian discovers the most attractive man she’d ever set her eyes on, and immediately began the process of being infatuated with him, while Ronan’s friend Vivian, who was accompanying them, started planning a wager to which Ronan agreed to later. Ronan was, though, completely unaware who Gillian was but she knew who he was from a drunk and chatty Vivian, who hadn’t taken much time to espouse on Ronan’s legendary reputation as a ladies’ man. Gillian also recognized him from that long ago scandal that people still whisper about. His new status, of course, now makes him completely clear of any ‘whimsies’ of his younger years. But oh Lord, he’s divine and Gillian is thoroughly besotted.
Though Gillian would’ve loved to keep her identity a secret, hence making Ronan think she’s a maid or at least, a governess of a house by her appearance and out of fashion dress, it was not to be so. They found Derwent waiting for her on the doorstep and any thought of hiding from Ronan Blakely or hide him from her volatile brother flew Gillian’s mind. She had no interest of introducing the two either but that wasn’t necessary. Apparently, both knew each-other quite well; so much so Derwent was spitting mad that Gillian was in his company, whereas Ronan held on his usual indifferent calmness. Gillian had no idea what happened but obviously there was a history somewhere. It was proven as much, when Derwent vehemently asked Gillian to never, ever talk to or acknowledge Ronan ever again in her life. The old Gillian probably would’ve been cowed and meekly listened to his brother. However the ‘new’ Gillian was in deep infatuation with Ronan Blakely’s dark good-looks and that quirky but rare smile. He must be the most excited thing that ever happened in her life, who is Derwent to keep her away from him? After all, she was a ‘hardened’ spinster and has no need to really be concerned about her reputation.
In the meantime, Ronan was also quite intrigued by this meek hen he just met. No idea why, but he couldn’t keep her out of his head. But that wouldn’t do. He isn’t going to involve himself into Derwent Redfern’s business once again. He’s older and, likes to believe, much more matured that he was before. But when Vivian approached with a bet that he can’t compromise the reputation of the honorable Miss Gillian Redfern within the few weeks, Ronan only smiled and accepted the challenge. He was growing bored even with the workload of the new gambling house he’d opened. He needed some new and fresh distractions. Gillian Redfern seemed ripe, quite ready to be plucked. Game on!
Of course, Gillian had no idea what was going on. She was too busy keeping Derwent’s eldest daughter, Felicity in check. At 18, Felicity is a stunning beauty and the toast of the Ton. Gillian has no idea how can two rather very normal looking parents (neither Derwent nor his obese wife, Letty were lookers if I have to go by the hints in the book) created this stunning flower. However, Felicity was also pretty air-headed and stubborn. And she’s been in love with a village vicar (albeit super good-looking vicar) since she turned 15. Derwent had already dismissed Liam Blackstone as unsuitable as ever, which the suitor himself had accepted and backed off, devoting himself in God’s work here in London. However, there was no stopping Felicity who was quite mad for Liam and wouldn’t marry anyone. She was blindly devoted to him, even though he’s been trying his best to push her away. Though he wanted her, Liam wasn’t brave enough take any steps, neither did he have any money to do anything about it. He’d already began considering her a distraction to his work. But if you know Felicity, you know she will find a way to visit him whenever she can, however she can, using her own beauty and charm, if it means manipulating people along the way. So you can say Gillian had her hands quite full of that one bubblehead, let alone 1000s of other chore she had to maintain cause all Letty liked doing all day was to lie in the settee, act ill and eat chocolate, then sigh tragically over...whatever it was. The complications that Lord Marlowe aroused within her were something she didn’t know if she could handle at that point. She kept telling herself he can’t be of any good to her in any way imaginable; neither to her reputation nor her peace of mind. But when he kept turning up everywhere she went, how could she keep her mind in check of the dashing and intense Lord Marlowe?
Most of the story takes place from Gillian’s side so it was more than obvious that she was crazy for Ronan within a few weeks. His stolen kisses and touches weren’t doing much help either, especially for an innocent like her who only dreamt of such things. It’s true that Ronan pointed out how misused she was in the hands of her family (no one took Gillian seriously, except for when they needed her for something...even Felicity was like that). Also that she spends more time taking care of other people’s children than think of herself. Gillian knew the truth but what could she do? She also, deep inside, knew that an affair with him will go nowhere but an utter ruination of her. But she was a moth to a flame and couldn’t help falling for Ronan. Soon enough, Gillian was hopelessly in love with a man who has never promised anything to her, but has, many times, expressed how much he despised marriage. That he had no interest whatsoever of ever getting married.
I don’t quite remember how it happened but then one day, she ended up sleeping with him. One night to cherish for the rest of her life and all that crap. *eyeroll* By then though, Ronan was questioning the wisdom of compromising someone like Gillian, whom he already knew to be a total innocent. He liked her enough to wanting to back off at first. But he loved women and he had wanted Gillian for a long time, so he gives in. Was he still acting on that wager? At that point, neither I nor Ronan had any idea if he was. However, the next morning, Vivian stops by early and does everything in his puny power to destroy all of Gillian’s dreams and Ronan’s fragile hopes around something like happiness (maybe love too) by mentioning that wager. She was still in bed with him... *sigh* Things were about to get worse for poor Gillian. When downstairs trying to get away, she meets a flamboyant beauty. A bit older in the years than her, the woman claims to be Lady Marlowe coming to visit her husband! Oh boy!
TBH, that was the point where I kinda lost it. I mean seriously? WHAT THE HELL?? *facepalm* How much can this poor girl take? The humiliation of becoming compromised because of a wager, while thinking she’s in love? Then finding the center of her utter infatuation, and destruction, is also married? No way!!!!
Sooo, here is my take on why the last couple of chapters were the downfall of this story:
1. I did love the story until Ronan and Gillian slept together. I was enchanted by Ronan’s personality myself and was hoping the story would take a different turn. He knew his power over women. It’s one of those things some men are born with. Some use it to destroy lives while others to snare the women they love. You gotta pick and choose. But in between, when someone is willing and has no other expectations, then why not? I get that. I get that Ronan had his ‘history’, fair enough. But I also would’ve loved to have those where they belonged, in the past. I get why Gillian was infatuated but, for me, their chemistry was never quite explosive, mostly because Gillian transformed into a complete doormat. She was no match for Ronan. Also knowing that Ronan wagered about her downfall was something that never quite sat well with me. So when they slept together I was in a ‘wtf’ moment for a while. That was NOT the right moment for a one night stand or whatever. Nope.
2. In the middle of the story, at a clothing store where Gillian and Felicity were visiting, Ronan finds them. It was hinted that he was there with a woman but never revealed as to who she was. In fact, Gillian never questioned him either so everything was hushed away. From all things and considering his reputation, we can only guess that had to be his latest lover/mistress, even though throughout the author gave me an impression that he was too busy for anything else. He was also chasing Gillian with a pointed resolve. So can I safely assume that while he was chasing Gillian, he was also sleeping with other women? The thought of it is something I’d rather not contemplate at all. I’m glad Gillian was okay with it, even if it made her sad.
3. At one point of the story, when Ronan decided to twist Letty Redfern’s arms to get an acceptance out of Liam Blackstone for Felicity, I was surprised. Why would he think of Letty Redfern among all the people in the world? But not for long when he reveals that nugget of information weighed in gold. That it was because of Letty Redfern that he had to flee the country. They were lovers when Letty was young, and I can only assume, newly married to Derwent. Obviously attractive enough to catch Ronan’s fancy. That explained Derwent’s utter despise of him and Letty’s perpetual air of tragedy, even though that didn’t stop them from having gazillion children afterwards. -_- I was rather green around the gills while Gillian took the whole thing in as if it’s a quirk of some kind. That’s how Ronan is so you just go with the flow? :/ I was stunned that, while I wasn’t sure what to feel about this information AND the man himself, she talks with him as if they were chatting about the weather. She even suggests that Felicity maybe his daughter, but Ronan declines because Felicity was born least a year and a half after his departure. “Yikes!” was all I could say.
4. After her colossal humiliation, I thought Gillian would now stay the F away from Ronan. I mean, lesson Learned? Run away and never look back?! Let him chase her again, and find her, then grovel his heart out if he really felt anything for her. I wanted groveling, damnit! But oh no! A few words in favor of him from ex Lady Marlowe (they were divorced a long time ago though how Ronan wasn’t aware of it, no idea) and current Contessa Albina, and Gillian is good to go. Running to see him, then falling head over heels in love once again cause he’d drunk himself into a stupor for the past couple of days since her departure. REALLY GILLIAN?? OMG. I was like, wow! You must be really desperate honey. -_- Where is the meek, yet practical Gillian I saw in the beginning? I wanted to ask exactly why are you in love with him? He did NOTHING to show he loved you beyond the obvious. I mean, c’mon! So in the end, Ronan had to do nothing to get her back, for what he did. I don’t even remember if he said sorry, cause I was that disgusted. She simply ran back to him and that was that. I don’t even wanna think of how she kissed him while he was supposed to be drunk and out for lord knows how many days, AND I’m guessing, going without any form of cleanliness. Even a dashing rake can’t smell amazing with that routine and in that condition. Nope.
I know, I know. I’m special that way. I was, in fact, thinking of how unpleasant it would be to kiss someone like him in every sense of the word. Couldn’t help it. -_- But oh well, that was me. I wasn’t in love with Ronan so……….. *shrugs*
All in all, my first foray into Anne Staurt’s books wasn’t a smashing success. BUT I did like her writing and how she built up her characters to keep me hooked for the better part of the story, enough to check out some of her other novels. I also heard this one’s not her best but I like to judge a book after I experience it myself. This one, personally, I won’t recommend. However you may not be as bothered by Ronan’s shenanigan and Gillian’s sad transformation as I was so it’s your call. 3.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2024
I couldn't get into this. I thought I'd enjoy it and it'd be like Bridgerton but nothing really happened.
September 28, 2016
FINAL DECISION: A sweet historical romance between a woman who has spent her life raising her brother's children and a man who has plenty of notoriety behind him. He brings animation into her life and she bring stability to his.
THE STORY: Gillian Redfern has reached the age of thirty never having even been kissed. Living with her brother and his family, Gillian takes care of the children and the household. One night she meets Ronan Blakely, Marquis of Herrington who has been absent from England for twenty years. Ronan is a true rake who left England in scandal. Now he has returned as the Marquis. When he meet Gillian, he thinks of making her break out of her comfortable world by turning his charm toward her.
OPINION: I enjoyed this book tremendously. It has a little dated feel to it (having been written in the early 1980s) but I loved Gillian as a character. She is a woman who comes out of her shell and into her own as the book progresses. She learns to reach out for what she wants in life rather than letting things happen to her.
Ronan is a true rake. (Sometimes in modern books, rake is overused). He has had notorious relationships (including an attempt to make off with a married woman). I miss the opportunity to see his development as a character because much of his thinking remains murky (not uncommon in older romances).
I like how Ronan doesn't know how to deal with Gillian. Everything in the book was great until the ending. There is a big twist that really wasn't necessary and was brought up and resolved far too quickly.
I was amazed that so much story and character development was contained in so few pages. I enjoyed it and this book reminds me that Anne Stuart has been a great writer for a long time.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is a reissue (with a bit of new material) of a 1980s Candlelight Regency romance.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This is a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
THE STORY: Gillian Redfern has reached the age of thirty never having even been kissed. Living with her brother and his family, Gillian takes care of the children and the household. One night she meets Ronan Blakely, Marquis of Herrington who has been absent from England for twenty years. Ronan is a true rake who left England in scandal. Now he has returned as the Marquis. When he meet Gillian, he thinks of making her break out of her comfortable world by turning his charm toward her.
OPINION: I enjoyed this book tremendously. It has a little dated feel to it (having been written in the early 1980s) but I loved Gillian as a character. She is a woman who comes out of her shell and into her own as the book progresses. She learns to reach out for what she wants in life rather than letting things happen to her.
Ronan is a true rake. (Sometimes in modern books, rake is overused). He has had notorious relationships (including an attempt to make off with a married woman). I miss the opportunity to see his development as a character because much of his thinking remains murky (not uncommon in older romances).
I like how Ronan doesn't know how to deal with Gillian. Everything in the book was great until the ending. There is a big twist that really wasn't necessary and was brought up and resolved far too quickly.
I was amazed that so much story and character development was contained in so few pages. I enjoyed it and this book reminds me that Anne Stuart has been a great writer for a long time.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is a reissue (with a bit of new material) of a 1980s Candlelight Regency romance.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This is a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
January 22, 2017
Safety
October 18, 2021
I liked the author's narrative. She did a good job creating her characters and presenting vivid scenes, dialogs between them.
What didn't work for me was the romance and the conclusion of it. I think the relationship between hero and heroin should be developed better. l am willing to be convinced that heroin was half-smitten, but for the hero, l needed more persuasion to be happy for the end.
Overall l am glad that l read it. It is still better than most of the historical romance books.
What didn't work for me was the romance and the conclusion of it. I think the relationship between hero and heroin should be developed better. l am willing to be convinced that heroin was half-smitten, but for the hero, l needed more persuasion to be happy for the end.
Overall l am glad that l read it. It is still better than most of the historical romance books.
October 10, 2021
It is exactly what the title describes. The spinster is thirty years old, pragmatic. She's the one who took care of the parents and sacrificed herself--in other words, she chose to remain single. The story opens with her visiting her oldest brother, who is quite a bit older than her. She is there to watch her niece and basically do the things her sister in law won't do.
On the way to older brother's house in London, her carriage breaks down and she gets a ride from a rake and his drinking buddy. He's an older, world weary rake but he's still gorgeous. Of course he is.
This is not difficult reading. Of course there's the obligatory sexual content. I don't care for that at all; just a preference. I also incredibly annoyed when the sex is so great the first time around. Isn't that special. But I digress.
Sex aside, I enjoyed it for what it is. Entertaining. Light. There's a really cute secondary story too.
4 1/2 stars, which includes less a half star because of the splendid, first time, (eye rolling) sex.
Please note, I read through my local online library.
On the way to older brother's house in London, her carriage breaks down and she gets a ride from a rake and his drinking buddy. He's an older, world weary rake but he's still gorgeous. Of course he is.
This is not difficult reading. Of course there's the obligatory sexual content. I don't care for that at all; just a preference. I also incredibly annoyed when the sex is so great the first time around. Isn't that special. But I digress.
Sex aside, I enjoyed it for what it is. Entertaining. Light. There's a really cute secondary story too.
4 1/2 stars, which includes less a half star because of the splendid, first time, (eye rolling) sex.
Please note, I read through my local online library.
September 9, 2016
The Spinster: As a maiden aunt approaching 30, Gillian Redfern lives as an unpaid servant to her demanding family. Travelling between one siblings household to another
The Rake: Ronan Patrick Blakely, Lord Marlow, is a man of great charm and little moral character, a gambler, a womanizer, and handsome as sin to boot. He was forced to leave England 20 years previously for dallying with a married woman.
Gilly & Ronan meet when her carriage’s axle breaks. They are attracted to each other & she at first refuses to give him her name.
But Lord Marlow is about to discover that Miss Redfern is more siren than spinster. She amuses him, arouses him, and, much to his dismay, makes him a better man. Gillian will discover, in turn, that Lord Marlow possesses the power to turn her into a very wicked woman. The rake and the spinster are poised to find a love that neither could have imagined. Both of them act out of character around each other & their dialogue is witty & leaves you smiling
There are a few problems for them with a gambling nephew, a determined niece, the past history with Derwent & a friend who has wager with Ronan that he’ll ruin Gilly. A figure from Ronan’s past appears & helps ease things.
This was everything I enjoy in a Regency romance, gorgeous hero – I love a rake especially if they are like a chocolate, hard on the outside but with a soft centre! A put upon heroine who decides enough is enough & her true strength comes out.
This book was originally released in the early 80s but not all dated & I recommend it as an easy very enjoyable read that will make you smile
I received an ARC copy
The Rake: Ronan Patrick Blakely, Lord Marlow, is a man of great charm and little moral character, a gambler, a womanizer, and handsome as sin to boot. He was forced to leave England 20 years previously for dallying with a married woman.
Gilly & Ronan meet when her carriage’s axle breaks. They are attracted to each other & she at first refuses to give him her name.
But Lord Marlow is about to discover that Miss Redfern is more siren than spinster. She amuses him, arouses him, and, much to his dismay, makes him a better man. Gillian will discover, in turn, that Lord Marlow possesses the power to turn her into a very wicked woman. The rake and the spinster are poised to find a love that neither could have imagined. Both of them act out of character around each other & their dialogue is witty & leaves you smiling
There are a few problems for them with a gambling nephew, a determined niece, the past history with Derwent & a friend who has wager with Ronan that he’ll ruin Gilly. A figure from Ronan’s past appears & helps ease things.
This was everything I enjoy in a Regency romance, gorgeous hero – I love a rake especially if they are like a chocolate, hard on the outside but with a soft centre! A put upon heroine who decides enough is enough & her true strength comes out.
This book was originally released in the early 80s but not all dated & I recommend it as an easy very enjoyable read that will make you smile
I received an ARC copy
September 9, 2016
Love the name...ronan...sigh... a older (than the average rake) a heroine older than our normal she is ..gasp... 30.
The rake has history with the heroines older brother, a scandal that sent him away for 20 years.... he has returned as a titled man...so his history is forgiven.... he rescues the heroine after a accident unknowing of her name but soon discovers it when he returns her to her pompous brother...this is where the story takes off as he places a bet on making her fall for him to get back at her brother more or less.... while escorting the lightskirts and dallying with the young women looking for marriage which he is not interested in......(for a good reason) ...and yet it was a wonderful story~
Thank you netgalley and Anne... it was wonderful!
The rake has history with the heroines older brother, a scandal that sent him away for 20 years.... he has returned as a titled man...so his history is forgiven.... he rescues the heroine after a accident unknowing of her name but soon discovers it when he returns her to her pompous brother...this is where the story takes off as he places a bet on making her fall for him to get back at her brother more or less.... while escorting the lightskirts and dallying with the young women looking for marriage which he is not interested in......(for a good reason) ...and yet it was a wonderful story~
Thank you netgalley and Anne... it was wonderful!
November 29, 2017
I've heard so many praises for Anne Stuart so I was excited to try one.
I wasn't crazy about it.
I did like the writing style and loved the dialogue. I liked the h ok but nobody else.
Here are the things I found troubling
-I want a H to be true to the h once they've met. There are indications he's "wenching" after they've met.
-I felt no chemistry between the H and h. Why'd they fall in love?
-The H shows no remorse for trying to run off with a married woman. Then he uses his influence with the same woman later. It was weird.
-The H humiliates the h with a horrible wager. After which he doesn't even apologize. He doesn't chase after her. Nothing. I want a good grovel. He does nothing to get her back. The h goes back to him!
-The H has a friend who is a complete turd and is practically rewarded in the end.
-The h's brother is a huge douche bag and needs to be chopped off at the knees.
Too many things bugged me about this story. Uhg.
August 22, 2016
I had this book on my list for a while and started reading it with great hope. All my hopes were crushed and I'm sure there was a lesson to be learned, only I don't know what it is.
The despair started with the use of the word "fat" to describe a character flaw and utter undesirability at the very beginning. Then there was the Persuasion/Cinderella trope of the old maid being exploited by her nasty family (which I don't get because she was supposed to be also the "beloved aunt", cannot she be both and NOT be remorseful and resentful?) which to me it came across quite toxic. Also, the hero is a heartless gambler, player and womanizer who really has no morals or limits and it toying with the heroine for 90% of the book. The cherry on top was a horrible humiliation the heroine goes through at the end, followed by no grovelling at all, so she straight up goes to him and forgives him.
The story itself was not badly written or edited, but the logics of it were all wrong, character's actions were not suited for the time period, very over the top, and not in a nice, funny way.
All characters were annoying and there were no redeeming qualities to it.
The writer is from a different period, which should make me forgive some stylistic choices, but then I remember some fantastic 80s reads and remain set on my low rating this time.
The despair started with the use of the word "fat" to describe a character flaw and utter undesirability at the very beginning. Then there was the Persuasion/Cinderella trope of the old maid being exploited by her nasty family (which I don't get because she was supposed to be also the "beloved aunt", cannot she be both and NOT be remorseful and resentful?) which to me it came across quite toxic. Also, the hero is a heartless gambler, player and womanizer who really has no morals or limits and it toying with the heroine for 90% of the book. The cherry on top was a horrible humiliation the heroine goes through at the end, followed by no grovelling at all, so she straight up goes to him and forgives him.
The story itself was not badly written or edited, but the logics of it were all wrong, character's actions were not suited for the time period, very over the top, and not in a nice, funny way.
All characters were annoying and there were no redeeming qualities to it.
The writer is from a different period, which should make me forgive some stylistic choices, but then I remember some fantastic 80s reads and remain set on my low rating this time.
September 19, 2018
I know, I know. I should have known better than to read this one--and I knew what I was in for two pages in--but it was a recommendation, and I have a weakness for finishing things!
It was about as anachronistic, cringeworthy, and unbelievable as the title might lead you to expect. Poor Georgette Heyer would be spinning in her grave. It was short, and in a better book I would be annoyed that the story didn't have time to develop, but since this sucked it just made it a faster read.
A small thing to fixate on amidst the horror, but you never, ever need to use the phrase "wet liquid." I can promise you that your readers will assume that the liquid is wet without you having to enlighten them. You're welcome.
It was about as anachronistic, cringeworthy, and unbelievable as the title might lead you to expect. Poor Georgette Heyer would be spinning in her grave. It was short, and in a better book I would be annoyed that the story didn't have time to develop, but since this sucked it just made it a faster read.
A small thing to fixate on amidst the horror, but you never, ever need to use the phrase "wet liquid." I can promise you that your readers will assume that the liquid is wet without you having to enlighten them. You're welcome.
November 7, 2018
Enjoyable story !
I was curious to read one of Anne Stuart's earliest Regency novels. This was an entertaining storyline about Gillian, the youngest of the Redfern siblings who is single and is busy raising her nieces and nephews. Throughout the novel, her inner thoughts express how unhappy she is going to one sibling home to another only to take care of her nieces and nephews and how she dreams of having a family of her own. The hero was hard to warm up to . He was easily influenced by his friend participate in a bet and when he finally realized his feelings, it was to late. At the end, Gilly decided to take matters on her own and convinced the foolish rake that she is willing to be with him.
I was curious to read one of Anne Stuart's earliest Regency novels. This was an entertaining storyline about Gillian, the youngest of the Redfern siblings who is single and is busy raising her nieces and nephews. Throughout the novel, her inner thoughts express how unhappy she is going to one sibling home to another only to take care of her nieces and nephews and how she dreams of having a family of her own. The hero was hard to warm up to . He was easily influenced by his friend participate in a bet and when he finally realized his feelings, it was to late. At the end, Gilly decided to take matters on her own and convinced the foolish rake that she is willing to be with him.
September 2, 2017
Formulaic but fun and well-written. I liked it. 3.5 stars
December 11, 2017
This book just reinforces my belief that you shouldn't read any book under a 4-star rating.
Boring and unimaginative.
Boring and unimaginative.
September 8, 2016
The Spinster and the Rake was a quick and light read, basically what you would expect from a Regency Romance written in the early 80's.
When I read this book I did not realize that it was a reissue to ebook format from an earlier book. This totally explains why there was no point in the book when Ronan considered killing Gillian.
Ronan is a good old fashion rake. A romance and leave 'em hanging type of rake and not really a probable sociopath like most of the love interests in Stuart's later books. To be honest, I kind of missed the edge of a dangerous and unpredictably violent hero. But I still enjoyed the book.
I liked Gillian (even though she was a bit of a victim in the beginning). She does start pushing back at her family's insistence on controlling her and her life and I appreciated this bit of character development. I also liked Ronan (even through he wasn't exactly evil). I liked that he was honestly interested in Gillian as a person and did want to protect her from his own past mistakes.
The Spinster and the Rake was an entertaining book and I would recommend it to anyone who likes lighter romantic stories.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
When I read this book I did not realize that it was a reissue to ebook format from an earlier book. This totally explains why there was no point in the book when Ronan considered killing Gillian.
Ronan is a good old fashion rake. A romance and leave 'em hanging type of rake and not really a probable sociopath like most of the love interests in Stuart's later books. To be honest, I kind of missed the edge of a dangerous and unpredictably violent hero. But I still enjoyed the book.
I liked Gillian (even though she was a bit of a victim in the beginning). She does start pushing back at her family's insistence on controlling her and her life and I appreciated this bit of character development. I also liked Ronan (even through he wasn't exactly evil). I liked that he was honestly interested in Gillian as a person and did want to protect her from his own past mistakes.
The Spinster and the Rake was an entertaining book and I would recommend it to anyone who likes lighter romantic stories.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
December 10, 2016
Rather a decent romance. I enjoyed that neither Ronan nor Gillian were starry eyed youth, but rather adults capable of making their own decisions. Both are flawed (Ronan is blindly trusting and a bit of an ass and Gillian is a bit of a doormat and naive) but both show a decent amount of character growth, especially for a historical romance.
Ronan rescues a bedraggled Gillian from a carriage accident on the roads and is drawn to her, despite her dressing as drably as she possibly can. Fascinated by her he makes an idiotic wager with a drunken friend to compromise her.
Gillian is used to being used by her family and it's a comfortable habit. First she nursed her parents when they were dying, now she travels from sibling to sibling taking care of their children and running their houses. When Ronan rescues her on the road she is drawn to him, despite his unsuitableness and her being firmly on the shelf.
Ronan rescues a bedraggled Gillian from a carriage accident on the roads and is drawn to her, despite her dressing as drably as she possibly can. Fascinated by her he makes an idiotic wager with a drunken friend to compromise her.
Gillian is used to being used by her family and it's a comfortable habit. First she nursed her parents when they were dying, now she travels from sibling to sibling taking care of their children and running their houses. When Ronan rescues her on the road she is drawn to him, despite his unsuitableness and her being firmly on the shelf.
December 6, 2020
3.5 stars
Great beginning. I love a witty hero and this hero delivered on that front. Some very cute bantering took place between these two. The heroine was one of the best spinster aunts in a romance that I've read. I fell in love with how she treated her niece and nephew. What stop this book from receiving a higher rating was the secondary romance with her niece. I had to skim those pages because I had no interest in it. I've never enjoyed secondary story lines. It only takes away from the story I want to read about. This was a short book and needed depth and development to substantiate the romance. The secondary story only took away from that. It could have been a great read with just a little more substance. All in all, it was still a cute fluff read that I enjoyed for what it was.
Great beginning. I love a witty hero and this hero delivered on that front. Some very cute bantering took place between these two. The heroine was one of the best spinster aunts in a romance that I've read. I fell in love with how she treated her niece and nephew. What stop this book from receiving a higher rating was the secondary romance with her niece. I had to skim those pages because I had no interest in it. I've never enjoyed secondary story lines. It only takes away from the story I want to read about. This was a short book and needed depth and development to substantiate the romance. The secondary story only took away from that. It could have been a great read with just a little more substance. All in all, it was still a cute fluff read that I enjoyed for what it was.
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