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Jewels of the Ton #2
If You Give a Rake a Ruby
Fallon, the Marchioness of Mystery, is a celebrated courtesan with a mysterious past. Warrick Fitzhugh will do anything to protect his compatriots in the Foreign Office, including seduce Fallon, who he thinks can lead him to the deadliest crime lord in London. Fallon is not who Warrick thinks she is, but her secrets answer his desire.
339 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 5, 2013
51 people are currently reading
1412 people want to read
About the author
Shana Galen
81 books1,544 followersShana Galen is three-time Rita award nominee and the bestselling author of fast-paced, witty, and adventurous Regency romances. Kirkus says of her books, "The road to happily-ever-after is intense, conflicted, suspenseful and fun," and RT Bookreviews calls her books “lighthearted yet poignant, humorous yet touching." She taught English at the middle and high school level off and on for eleven years. Most of those years were spent working in Houston's inner city. Now she writes full time. She's happily married and has a daughter who is most definitely a romance heroine in the making.
Want to know more? Visit Shana's website at http://www.shanagalen.com and sign up to be notified when Shana has a new release http://bit.ly/ShanaGalenNews
Want to know more? Visit Shana's website at http://www.shanagalen.com and sign up to be notified when Shana has a new release http://bit.ly/ShanaGalenNews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
January 10, 2018
The heroine (Fallon) was likable and stabby with an interesting backstory. And the hero was pretty cool what with the whole rebel-son/brilliant-spy vibe he had going on.
Even the action-y stuff was pretty good...for a romance!
In fact, it was so good that I was more invested in the mystery of who was the traitor who was out to kill England's top spies than I was about seeing the two main characters make kissy-face noises at each other.
And that, my friend, is why the ending was such a HUGE disappointment for me!
Yeah, yeah, yeah. They get together in the end, but the mystery part is just abruptly cut off.
BOOM!
I was staring at the last page all splutter-y and muttering What the What?! under my breath.
Anyway. Looks like I'm going to have to read the next book if I want to find out who the bad guys is, or else I'll just have to learn to live with the gaping hole this mystery has left in my soul.
*sighs*
*adds next book to TBR list*
Even the action-y stuff was pretty good...for a romance!
In fact, it was so good that I was more invested in the mystery of who was the traitor who was out to kill England's top spies than I was about seeing the two main characters make kissy-face noises at each other.
And that, my friend, is why the ending was such a HUGE disappointment for me!
Yeah, yeah, yeah. They get together in the end, but the mystery part is just abruptly cut off.
BOOM!
I was staring at the last page all splutter-y and muttering What the What?! under my breath.
Anyway. Looks like I'm going to have to read the next book if I want to find out who the bad guys is, or else I'll just have to learn to live with the gaping hole this mystery has left in my soul.
*sighs*
*adds next book to TBR list*
February 10, 2013
I received the book for a honest review from the author
I had heart palpitations when I read that :))
Main characters:
Fallon, Marchioness of Mystery
Warrick Fitzhugh
About the story:The book starts with Fallon kicking someone out of her parlor, literally, and finding Warrick in her bedroom. When I read it I couldn’t stop laughing. It’s one of the best starts I’ve read lately, and a sure way to interest me in reading more. Now, back to the plot, Warrick wants information only Fallon has and goes about finding it in one of the oldest way of the world: blackmailing her. And if that’s not enough, he ropes her in helping him find the man who bought the diamonds in the rough. After this, a story of mystery, adventure and love follows.
I liked this book a lot more then the 1st in the series(When You Give a Duke a Diamond), I loved the banter between the 2 main characters, their backgrounds and the whole story in general. Ms. Galen wrote great back stories that still affect our main characters. Fallon has a crappy father that used her and didn’t appreciate her at all and Warrick, while he had a great childhood, suffers from PTSD and survivors guilt. Besides those, it had some bad-ass action scenes: a carriage chaise, an interrogation, and some others I’ll let you discover for yourself :D.
Favorite character: The Countess of Sinclair who is amazing and scares everyone :D! She has a devious mind, and though we don’t see a lot of her, she has some of the most memorable scenes.
Favorite scene: There are a lot of great scenes throughout the book but I love the scene after carriage ride the most, with the accent on the bandaging part. It’s very sensual and sexy, without the author overdoing it.
Favorite quote:
“Oh my!” The countess pressed her hands together. “You’re in love with him.”
Fallon frowned. “And why does that make you look so pleased? You told me a few days ago not to fall in love with him.”
“Only because I knew that would make you fall in love with him.”
Fallon glanced at Lily, but Lily only shook her head, looking as confused as Fallon felt.
“Oh, you were already in love with him,” the countess explained, seeping her tea. “But I knew telling you not to fall in love with him would only make you more so.”
“That’s ridiculous,” Fallon protested. “I’m not that contrary.”
The countess raised her brows and sipped her tea. Fallon looked at Lily, but Lily suddenly intensely interested in her white gauze sleeves.
“Fine.” Fallon sighted “I am contrary.”
Would I recommend the book: I liked it a lot, though when I first started to read the series I didn't expect to, since courtesan books are not among my favorites. It’s well written, has very likable characters, an interesting plot and a touch of mystery to make it… more. You can read this one without reading the 1st in the series, though you’ll miss some references and I think knowing what happens in it enriches the experience. Ms. Galen finishes the book in a way that sets the last story in the series perfectly, without taking my enjoyment in the HEA(though it does make me very curious :P).
Final rating:5*
PS: The cover is beautiful! I love looking at it, the art department people did and awesome job and got inspired in one of the dresses from the book(Fallon wears it at a ball, you have to read to find out which) :D
I had heart palpitations when I read that :))
Main characters:
Fallon, Marchioness of Mystery
Warrick Fitzhugh
About the story:The book starts with Fallon kicking someone out of her parlor, literally, and finding Warrick in her bedroom. When I read it I couldn’t stop laughing. It’s one of the best starts I’ve read lately, and a sure way to interest me in reading more. Now, back to the plot, Warrick wants information only Fallon has and goes about finding it in one of the oldest way of the world: blackmailing her. And if that’s not enough, he ropes her in helping him find the man who bought the diamonds in the rough. After this, a story of mystery, adventure and love follows.
I liked this book a lot more then the 1st in the series(When You Give a Duke a Diamond), I loved the banter between the 2 main characters, their backgrounds and the whole story in general. Ms. Galen wrote great back stories that still affect our main characters. Fallon has a crappy father that used her and didn’t appreciate her at all and Warrick, while he had a great childhood, suffers from PTSD and survivors guilt. Besides those, it had some bad-ass action scenes: a carriage chaise, an interrogation, and some others I’ll let you discover for yourself :D.
Favorite character: The Countess of Sinclair who is amazing and scares everyone :D! She has a devious mind, and though we don’t see a lot of her, she has some of the most memorable scenes.
Favorite scene: There are a lot of great scenes throughout the book but I love the scene after carriage ride the most, with the accent on the bandaging part. It’s very sensual and sexy, without the author overdoing it.
Favorite quote:
“Oh my!” The countess pressed her hands together. “You’re in love with him.”
Fallon frowned. “And why does that make you look so pleased? You told me a few days ago not to fall in love with him.”
“Only because I knew that would make you fall in love with him.”
Fallon glanced at Lily, but Lily only shook her head, looking as confused as Fallon felt.
“Oh, you were already in love with him,” the countess explained, seeping her tea. “But I knew telling you not to fall in love with him would only make you more so.”
“That’s ridiculous,” Fallon protested. “I’m not that contrary.”
The countess raised her brows and sipped her tea. Fallon looked at Lily, but Lily suddenly intensely interested in her white gauze sleeves.
“Fine.” Fallon sighted “I am contrary.”
Would I recommend the book: I liked it a lot, though when I first started to read the series I didn't expect to, since courtesan books are not among my favorites. It’s well written, has very likable characters, an interesting plot and a touch of mystery to make it… more. You can read this one without reading the 1st in the series, though you’ll miss some references and I think knowing what happens in it enriches the experience. Ms. Galen finishes the book in a way that sets the last story in the series perfectly, without taking my enjoyment in the HEA(though it does make me very curious :P).
Final rating:5*
PS: The cover is beautiful! I love looking at it, the art department people did and awesome job and got inspired in one of the dresses from the book(Fallon wears it at a ball, you have to read to find out which) :D
April 10, 2013
DNF, and I was THIS close to throwing the book against a wall in the bargain.
In what way is this book a romance? Not because the leads are a spy of noble descent and a famous courtesan who secretly sprang from street-rat roots. No, my reaction is more to brutish clodpole of a "hero" this supposed gentleman is. Their "relationship" begins with the so-called "hero" inviting himself into the heroine's bedroom (because there's no other place to speak privately with her, natch). He refuses to leave when she demands it, and blackmails her into assisting him in his spy work-- which, he forgot to mention, will destroy her reputation, on which her welfare depends (not that he cares) and, oh yeah, put the assassins on his tail onto HERS as well (not counting the casual dangers he puts her through, like requiring her to meet him alone at midnight in a horrible part of town). He kidnaps her from a ball, endangers her at multiple turns, can't be bothered to rescue her from a pair of attempted rapists ("you looked like you were doing well enough on your own"), and then wants *credit* for saving her life when HE'S THE REASON IT WAS IN DANGER. Oh yes-- and all along, he was intending to use her as bait, anyway. Seriously-- how did this man ever make a living as a spy, much less bring to mind some kind of romantic hero?
Of course, about halfway through the book he decides he's in love with her (more like, in lust with her breasts, which he waxes rhapsodic about) and decides that she is "his" and he's going to marry her. (Her protests mean nothing, of course. Why should she get a say in it? She hasn't had a say in anything else they've done together).
At one point, Fallon (and I think "Jimmy Fallon" EVERY TIME I read her name) calls him a "true gentleman" and "considerate" (I think because he pulled out during sex). Clearly, he must've tossed her on her head in addition to cracking her ribs, because Warrick is not remotely deserving of the "hero" label.
The first book in the series wasn't horrible (aside from the multiple opportunities to demonstrate how many nasty names a woman in the sex trade can be called), but I'm not going to condone any more of this drivel by reading it.
In what way is this book a romance? Not because the leads are a spy of noble descent and a famous courtesan who secretly sprang from street-rat roots. No, my reaction is more to brutish clodpole of a "hero" this supposed gentleman is. Their "relationship" begins with the so-called "hero" inviting himself into the heroine's bedroom (because there's no other place to speak privately with her, natch). He refuses to leave when she demands it, and blackmails her into assisting him in his spy work-- which, he forgot to mention, will destroy her reputation, on which her welfare depends (not that he cares) and, oh yeah, put the assassins on his tail onto HERS as well (not counting the casual dangers he puts her through, like requiring her to meet him alone at midnight in a horrible part of town). He kidnaps her from a ball, endangers her at multiple turns, can't be bothered to rescue her from a pair of attempted rapists ("you looked like you were doing well enough on your own"), and then wants *credit* for saving her life when HE'S THE REASON IT WAS IN DANGER. Oh yes-- and all along, he was intending to use her as bait, anyway. Seriously-- how did this man ever make a living as a spy, much less bring to mind some kind of romantic hero?
Of course, about halfway through the book he decides he's in love with her (more like, in lust with her breasts, which he waxes rhapsodic about) and decides that she is "his" and he's going to marry her. (Her protests mean nothing, of course. Why should she get a say in it? She hasn't had a say in anything else they've done together).
At one point, Fallon (and I think "Jimmy Fallon" EVERY TIME I read her name) calls him a "true gentleman" and "considerate" (I think because he pulled out during sex). Clearly, he must've tossed her on her head in addition to cracking her ribs, because Warrick is not remotely deserving of the "hero" label.
The first book in the series wasn't horrible (aside from the multiple opportunities to demonstrate how many nasty names a woman in the sex trade can be called), but I'm not going to condone any more of this drivel by reading it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2013
DNF at 30%
The reason I got so annoyed with this story that I quit reading has to do with power imbalance. It annoys me if one of the leads has all the advantage and is able to corner the other. I need the power to be balanced to some extent. That means that the less powerful one still has to have a choice or some sort of influence. For a romance to be successful, I need for there to be some sort of give-and-take.
The scene that made this one too imbalanced for me was a scene at a ball, where the hero and heroine are present. He decides they have to leave, she says no, he insists, she says no, he hauls her up over his shoulder and walks out, she screams abduction, her friend tries to help by saying 'she doesn't want this', he ignores her and walk off with the heroine.
That scene has the heroine saying quite forcefully no to the hero and he ignores her. Big red flag for me, and that makes the story not for me. If there had been some sort of give and take in scenes leading up to this, I might not have quit, but this problem had been there from the start. The heroine stated her wishes several times, and was ignored while the hero kept to his agenda.
I don't mind a forceful or even domineering hero. But I need a heroine who is allowed to hold her own in the face of that. The same plot points could have happened without her being so completely in his power. That her power and consent is taken away makes this a DNF for me.
The reason I got so annoyed with this story that I quit reading has to do with power imbalance. It annoys me if one of the leads has all the advantage and is able to corner the other. I need the power to be balanced to some extent. That means that the less powerful one still has to have a choice or some sort of influence. For a romance to be successful, I need for there to be some sort of give-and-take.
The scene that made this one too imbalanced for me was a scene at a ball, where the hero and heroine are present. He decides they have to leave, she says no, he insists, she says no, he hauls her up over his shoulder and walks out, she screams abduction, her friend tries to help by saying 'she doesn't want this', he ignores her and walk off with the heroine.
That scene has the heroine saying quite forcefully no to the hero and he ignores her. Big red flag for me, and that makes the story not for me. If there had been some sort of give and take in scenes leading up to this, I might not have quit, but this problem had been there from the start. The heroine stated her wishes several times, and was ignored while the hero kept to his agenda.
I don't mind a forceful or even domineering hero. But I need a heroine who is allowed to hold her own in the face of that. The same plot points could have happened without her being so completely in his power. That her power and consent is taken away makes this a DNF for me.
March 4, 2019
Totally enjoyed this one!!!
Fallon, the Marchioness of Mystery
Fallon, the Marchioness of Mystery
June 1, 2023
Dear Shana,
Where have you been all my life?!
Where have you been all my life?!
May 7, 2016
The second book in Shana Galen’s Jewels of the Ton series is a fast-paced and entertaining blend of intrigue, action and a sensual romance.
This is Fallon, a beautiful, much sought after courtesan. Rumours abound about her true identity, so much so that she is dubbed the Marchioness of Mystery.
This is Warrick Fitzhugh, ex-spy for the Home Office, determined to track down the traitor who is threatening the lives of his fellow Diamonds in the Rough, spies who had provided the information Wellington had needed to win at Waterloo.
and when their worlds collide…danger, intrigue and a passion neither expects are bound to follow!
I love Fallon because, despite her diminutive stature, she is a formidable lady, more than able to take care of herself in a sticky situation. She’s a strong minded and independent woman but also vulnerable because of fears that her true identity may one day be discovered. Born in the slums of London, the daughter of a pickpocket and a whore, she knows should this become known the life she has built for herself will be destroyed.
She did not take any of this for granted. It could all be taken away from her with the snap of a finger if anyone ever found out who she really was.
Warrick is the third son of the Earl of Winthorpe but his father had disowned him when he chose to become a spy. His father also blames him for the death of his younger son, Edward, who followed Warrick into the military. I admire Warrick for being a man of principle and seeing that the job he was doing was far more important than his father’s opinion of him.
Warrick couldn’t regret his decision to become a spy, even if it meant his father was ashamed of him. Some things were more important than the Earl of Winthorpe’s approval, though his father doubtlessly disagreed.
I also understand his desire to reconcile with his father and be part of a family again.
Warrick didn’t emerge unscathed from the war. He experiences terrifyingly realistic flashbacks to the battlefield and Ms Galen’s descriptions are so vivid that I felt as if I was there with Warrick experiencing all his feelings of guilt and revulsion.
As they are both strong-minded and stubborn, you know sparks will fly when they first meet and I love the scene where Fallon unexpectedly discovers Warrick in her bed. Of course, he knows all her secrets and is confident that he can use the threat of disclosure to force her to help him. What he doesn’t expect is to be completely outmanoeuvred!
She put a hand on her hip. “And I suppose if I do not give you what you want then you will reveal my secret.”
“It’s called blackmail, and yes, that is generally how it works. Now that we both know the rules…” “Oh, I make the rules, Mr. Fitzhugh.” She sidled closer to the bed. “After all, we are in my bedchamber.”
“I…” He trailed off when she dropped her shawl on the floor beside the bed and, lifting her skirts, crawled onto her satin coverlet.”
“What are you doing?” he asked.
“Courtesan rule number one,” she whispered, crawling toward him. “Don’t talk.”
His arms dropped from behind his head and he sat forward, looking rather alarmed.
I love a story where the hero is the besotted one and the heroine is the reluctant one. Warrick is determined to marry Fallon but she feels unworthy of him. At heart, she knows she is living a lie and will always be a street rat.…too soiled, too undeserving…but Warrick sees who she truly is and helps her recognise her self-worth.
“When I look at you, I see a woman who is beautiful, brave, and resourceful. I see a woman who’s not afraid to fight. I see a woman who has more strength and resilience than ten of her so-called betters.
In turn, Fallon is the anchor Warrick needs to help him forget the horrors of war.
There is plenty of exciting action as Warrick and Fallon follow the trail which they hope will lead to the identity of the traitor. This forces them to work together thus creating delicious sexual tension culminating in some steamy love scenes.
My one criticism is that I found the ending very abrupt. It was obviously a case of setting up Lily’s story but I wanted to see more of Warrick and Fallon together. That said, I am looking forward to reading Lily’s book, Sapphires Are an Earl’s Best Friend .
MY VERDICT: If you are looking for an entertaining romance with intrigue and action, then you will definitely enjoy this.
REVIEW RATING: 4/5 STARS
Jewels of the Ton series (click on the book covers for more details):
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
This is Fallon, a beautiful, much sought after courtesan. Rumours abound about her true identity, so much so that she is dubbed the Marchioness of Mystery.
This is Warrick Fitzhugh, ex-spy for the Home Office, determined to track down the traitor who is threatening the lives of his fellow Diamonds in the Rough, spies who had provided the information Wellington had needed to win at Waterloo.
and when their worlds collide…danger, intrigue and a passion neither expects are bound to follow!
I love Fallon because, despite her diminutive stature, she is a formidable lady, more than able to take care of herself in a sticky situation. She’s a strong minded and independent woman but also vulnerable because of fears that her true identity may one day be discovered. Born in the slums of London, the daughter of a pickpocket and a whore, she knows should this become known the life she has built for herself will be destroyed.
She did not take any of this for granted. It could all be taken away from her with the snap of a finger if anyone ever found out who she really was.
Warrick is the third son of the Earl of Winthorpe but his father had disowned him when he chose to become a spy. His father also blames him for the death of his younger son, Edward, who followed Warrick into the military. I admire Warrick for being a man of principle and seeing that the job he was doing was far more important than his father’s opinion of him.
Warrick couldn’t regret his decision to become a spy, even if it meant his father was ashamed of him. Some things were more important than the Earl of Winthorpe’s approval, though his father doubtlessly disagreed.
I also understand his desire to reconcile with his father and be part of a family again.
Warrick didn’t emerge unscathed from the war. He experiences terrifyingly realistic flashbacks to the battlefield and Ms Galen’s descriptions are so vivid that I felt as if I was there with Warrick experiencing all his feelings of guilt and revulsion.
As they are both strong-minded and stubborn, you know sparks will fly when they first meet and I love the scene where Fallon unexpectedly discovers Warrick in her bed. Of course, he knows all her secrets and is confident that he can use the threat of disclosure to force her to help him. What he doesn’t expect is to be completely outmanoeuvred!
She put a hand on her hip. “And I suppose if I do not give you what you want then you will reveal my secret.”
“It’s called blackmail, and yes, that is generally how it works. Now that we both know the rules…” “Oh, I make the rules, Mr. Fitzhugh.” She sidled closer to the bed. “After all, we are in my bedchamber.”
“I…” He trailed off when she dropped her shawl on the floor beside the bed and, lifting her skirts, crawled onto her satin coverlet.”
“What are you doing?” he asked.
“Courtesan rule number one,” she whispered, crawling toward him. “Don’t talk.”
His arms dropped from behind his head and he sat forward, looking rather alarmed.
I love a story where the hero is the besotted one and the heroine is the reluctant one. Warrick is determined to marry Fallon but she feels unworthy of him. At heart, she knows she is living a lie and will always be a street rat.…too soiled, too undeserving…but Warrick sees who she truly is and helps her recognise her self-worth.
“When I look at you, I see a woman who is beautiful, brave, and resourceful. I see a woman who’s not afraid to fight. I see a woman who has more strength and resilience than ten of her so-called betters.
In turn, Fallon is the anchor Warrick needs to help him forget the horrors of war.
There is plenty of exciting action as Warrick and Fallon follow the trail which they hope will lead to the identity of the traitor. This forces them to work together thus creating delicious sexual tension culminating in some steamy love scenes.
My one criticism is that I found the ending very abrupt. It was obviously a case of setting up Lily’s story but I wanted to see more of Warrick and Fallon together. That said, I am looking forward to reading Lily’s book, Sapphires Are an Earl’s Best Friend .
MY VERDICT: If you are looking for an entertaining romance with intrigue and action, then you will definitely enjoy this.
REVIEW RATING: 4/5 STARS
Jewels of the Ton series (click on the book covers for more details):
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
March 4, 2013
Warrick Fitzhugh needs the help of the lovely Fallon, the Marchioness of Mystery but since she surrounds herself with friends and lovers at all times he has a hard time finding a way to speak with her. So he does the only thing left to him...he sneaks into her bedroom and proceeds to reveal the secrets of Fallon's past, the secrets she wants to stay hidden. Fallon sees no other choice than to help Warrick find the information he needs and they start on an adventurous hunt for the truth of who wants Warrick dead and once part of that is revealed, it turns Fallons life a bit sideways. Throw in a smoldering attraction between Fallon and Warrick and this couple strives to find a way to see if this attraction is real...or part of the chase.
I know I can always turn to Shana Galen for fast paced, sexy adventurous romances and this is exactly what this book delivers! Warrick is determined, bossy and dangerous and has a strained relationship with his family following his decision to become a spy, which caused the death of his brother. Fallon is honest, clever, kind, brave and ready to take on anyone who gets in her way of what she wants. Together they make a good pair but I did feel like their relationship was a bit rushed. So much happens in just a small amount of time and I would have liked to have seen a bit more development with their relationship before they acted on their desire for each other. I'm not sure I completely believed the 'I love yous' when they came. Beyond that though, this book was a fast, fun read and I love how secrets are revealed at a pace that you just keep reading...until midnight without even noticing as it was very easy to get swept away by the action. We get a good look at Fallon's fellow Jewel of the Ton, Lily and I am very anxious to learn about her secrets and to have a resolution to the overall mystery arc between these three books. While not necessary to read the previous book, When You Give a Duke a Diamond, I do think this book is stronger having read it first. Overall, not my favorite Shana Galen book but still a well written, action packed, surprising, steamy romance that deals with the issue of the heart and of family. 4 stars
eARC provided by Sourcebooks via netgalley
I know I can always turn to Shana Galen for fast paced, sexy adventurous romances and this is exactly what this book delivers! Warrick is determined, bossy and dangerous and has a strained relationship with his family following his decision to become a spy, which caused the death of his brother. Fallon is honest, clever, kind, brave and ready to take on anyone who gets in her way of what she wants. Together they make a good pair but I did feel like their relationship was a bit rushed. So much happens in just a small amount of time and I would have liked to have seen a bit more development with their relationship before they acted on their desire for each other. I'm not sure I completely believed the 'I love yous' when they came. Beyond that though, this book was a fast, fun read and I love how secrets are revealed at a pace that you just keep reading...until midnight without even noticing as it was very easy to get swept away by the action. We get a good look at Fallon's fellow Jewel of the Ton, Lily and I am very anxious to learn about her secrets and to have a resolution to the overall mystery arc between these three books. While not necessary to read the previous book, When You Give a Duke a Diamond, I do think this book is stronger having read it first. Overall, not my favorite Shana Galen book but still a well written, action packed, surprising, steamy romance that deals with the issue of the heart and of family. 4 stars
eARC provided by Sourcebooks via netgalley
March 19, 2018
Diamonds are the hardest natural substances on earth.
February 16, 2018
2 stars - Historical Romance
March 26, 2018
3 aight stars
it was aight. Nothing more to say
it was aight. Nothing more to say
August 5, 2013
If You Give A Rake A Ruby is the second installment in the Jewels of the Ton series. I have grown to greatly admire this author and the beautifully written stories she creates. This new series has surprised me, and I have to say that I could hardly wait to get my hands on this one. I was lucky enough to get a copy of this one from my local library. After reading the first one, I could wait to read Fallon's story. I have always had a soft spot for Fallon. At first she appears to be proud and aloof, but there is so much I enjoyed about her. The story is bit of a spy story, and it got its claws in me from the beginning.
Fallon, is one the two jewels of the Ton left, after her friend Juliette's marriage, she feels a bit envious of her happiness. Fallon has a murky past, a past that is about to catch up with her. When Warrick comes to her and confronts her, and threatens that unless she works with him, he will reveal who she really is. Fallon is shocked that she is being blackmailed, and even more surprised that Warrick was able to dig into her past as well informed as he apparently is. Warrick works for the Foreign Office as a spy, and must find the man responsible for threatening the lives of his fellow spies. He is desperate to get to the truth and destroy the danger to himself and others he has long served with. When he meets Fallon, he is astounded by her beauty and willfulness. In the beginning, his plan is to use her as bait, to get to the bottom of this mystery. But when he starts to fall in love with Fallon, his motives change, to protecting her. However her father is after them both, and only when Fallon will accept and trust in Warrick's love, will they be able to defeat those that threaten them and those that they love.
Overall I fell in love with this latest installment of the Jewels of the Ton!! This story is about the second Jewel, Fallon, who tends to wrap around your heart from the beginning. Warrick is a bit of a rascal, which I loved about him. He has led a dangerous life, but he has a soft spot for Fallon. At first he has a bit of a rough edge, however we see the protective side of him. What I would give to have a man like him at my side, I wouldn't fear anything. Fallon is strong willed and a fighter, but she does struggle with a bit of self doubt. As you learn where she truly comes from, you see where she has gotten her strength. There is such a passionate connection between Fallon and Warrick, this story tends to put you through a emotional ringer, but I will warn you it has a bit of a small cliffhanger, that really surprised me, and I wanted to scream "NOOOO" It can't be over yet!!! But it was, and yet I felt fully satisfied by the end of reading it. A Tale full of adventure, mystery and drama that is bound to get you bouncing off the walls in anxiety. WELL DONE!!
Fallon, is one the two jewels of the Ton left, after her friend Juliette's marriage, she feels a bit envious of her happiness. Fallon has a murky past, a past that is about to catch up with her. When Warrick comes to her and confronts her, and threatens that unless she works with him, he will reveal who she really is. Fallon is shocked that she is being blackmailed, and even more surprised that Warrick was able to dig into her past as well informed as he apparently is. Warrick works for the Foreign Office as a spy, and must find the man responsible for threatening the lives of his fellow spies. He is desperate to get to the truth and destroy the danger to himself and others he has long served with. When he meets Fallon, he is astounded by her beauty and willfulness. In the beginning, his plan is to use her as bait, to get to the bottom of this mystery. But when he starts to fall in love with Fallon, his motives change, to protecting her. However her father is after them both, and only when Fallon will accept and trust in Warrick's love, will they be able to defeat those that threaten them and those that they love.
Overall I fell in love with this latest installment of the Jewels of the Ton!! This story is about the second Jewel, Fallon, who tends to wrap around your heart from the beginning. Warrick is a bit of a rascal, which I loved about him. He has led a dangerous life, but he has a soft spot for Fallon. At first he has a bit of a rough edge, however we see the protective side of him. What I would give to have a man like him at my side, I wouldn't fear anything. Fallon is strong willed and a fighter, but she does struggle with a bit of self doubt. As you learn where she truly comes from, you see where she has gotten her strength. There is such a passionate connection between Fallon and Warrick, this story tends to put you through a emotional ringer, but I will warn you it has a bit of a small cliffhanger, that really surprised me, and I wanted to scream "NOOOO" It can't be over yet!!! But it was, and yet I felt fully satisfied by the end of reading it. A Tale full of adventure, mystery and drama that is bound to get you bouncing off the walls in anxiety. WELL DONE!!
February 17, 2015
4 incredible stars!
I really enjoyed this story. The banter between the hero and heroine was great. I especially love when the hero is truly smitten with the heroine.
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His mouth went dry as the doors to the ballroom opened. The light of the chandeliers sparkled off the bold blue and red gowns of the women entering the ballroom. But his gaze was fast drawn to the woman in the red. It was Fallon, and she was breathtaking. He missed a step and had to force his feet to keep moving. He wanted nothing more than to stop and stare at her.
No, that was not true. he wanted to walk to Fallon, take her in his arms, and kiss that lush red mouth. He wanted to pull the glossy brown hair from that elaborate twist and bury his hands in its considerable weight. He wanted to see her eyes cloud with passion and her skin glow with a fine sheen of perspiration from their lovemaking.
"She is pretty," Lady Edith remarked, her voice sounding as though she were calling to him from a tunnel underneath the ballroom somewhere.
Warrick stared at his dance partner. Pretty did not begin to describe Fallon. Seductive, exquisite, necessary--these were words that came to mind.
.............................................................
The characters are all wonderful. Lots of action, adventure, and passion. Couldn't ask for anything better. Shana Galen is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. On to the next in the series!
July 23, 2018
I hated how Warrick treated Fallon. He blackmailed her into doing something that was perilous to her identity, put her in harms way and pushed her out of a carriage (that she wouldn’t have been in the first place if it wasn’t for him) where she cracked a rib, and then made her go zooming around on his stupid spy errands AGAIN where she was on the run with the same rib pain. Then he barely defended her to his mother when she was calling her a whore when they met. Yeah, he was one of the lamest historical heroes yet. And I know it’s a series but it ended so weirdly and abruptly.
February 27, 2013
Shana Galen has written a beautiful love story. Fallon has a past about which not even her closet friends don’t know. Determined to save his comrades and his own life, Warrick discovers Fallon’s secrets. It was a joy to watch as this couple learned to trust and finally to love. Great read! I can't wait for the next one.
May 14, 2022
I really liked this one!! Fallon is a strong heroine who literally has to fight for her life! Warrick is a rake with a past that haunts him. He falls for Fallon and will do anything to protect her.
TW: SA, death
TW: SA, death
May 27, 2013
I really enjoyed the story though I was really not liking Warrick in the beginning. He really was undermining Fallon's life in every possible way. First, he was ruining her cover. Then revealing her to very dangerous people as bait. Only when he became attached, did he want to use her as bait as a last resort? Too late buddy, you already put her in danger and pretty much ruined her life as she knew it.
I'm not too sure about the ending either with Warrick's parents. Yes, it was nice but not sure I found it believable. The PTSD episode at the very end was rather high handed and considering he's still a relatively active operative, it would also make the degree he was suffering from PTSD bit hard to swallow. Granted, there is the personal factor involved but still it just didn't work for me even if it did pave the way for Fallon in other respects.
Okay with that off my chest, the mystery and intrigue of this story was engrossing. I couldn't wait to find out what was going on. Fallon is a sensible and tough as nails character. She also was not the total headstrong idiotic heroine you generally find in a lot of these novels. I also love how Lily's past is slowly being revealed and setting up for the last book in the trilogy (I'm assuming is a trilogy).
I'm not too sure about the ending either with Warrick's parents. Yes, it was nice but not sure I found it believable. The PTSD episode at the very end was rather high handed and considering he's still a relatively active operative, it would also make the degree he was suffering from PTSD bit hard to swallow. Granted, there is the personal factor involved but still it just didn't work for me even if it did pave the way for Fallon in other respects.
Okay with that off my chest, the mystery and intrigue of this story was engrossing. I couldn't wait to find out what was going on. Fallon is a sensible and tough as nails character. She also was not the total headstrong idiotic heroine you generally find in a lot of these novels. I also love how Lily's past is slowly being revealed and setting up for the last book in the trilogy (I'm assuming is a trilogy).
February 23, 2015
Now this is my kind of historical romance! I hate those pasty-faced girls who giggle and do whatever the prospective husband expects (and wants) them to do. I find those types of stories incredibly boring. On the other hand, Fallon, Marchioness of Mystery is a different animal all together. Fallon is a strong woman who has turned her life completely around and doesn't need (or want) a man to infringe on her freedom and independence. She has her place in society (even if it is basically a lie).
Enter Warrick Fitzhugh, agent of the Queen on a mission that requires Fallon's assistance whether she wants to give it or not - and she doesn't. Well too bad. Warrick is a strong man who gets what he wants too. Of course, being a spy he was able to ferret out all her dirty little secrets and is planning on using them to coerce her cooperation.
Of course, neither one is exactly what they seem and watching them discover that is thrilling. I loved watching Warrick fall in love with his mark and Fallon fighting it tooth and nail. A terrific addition to the Jewels of the Ton series. I can't wait to see who captures Lily's attention now that I know some interesting things about her.
Enter Warrick Fitzhugh, agent of the Queen on a mission that requires Fallon's assistance whether she wants to give it or not - and she doesn't. Well too bad. Warrick is a strong man who gets what he wants too. Of course, being a spy he was able to ferret out all her dirty little secrets and is planning on using them to coerce her cooperation.
Of course, neither one is exactly what they seem and watching them discover that is thrilling. I loved watching Warrick fall in love with his mark and Fallon fighting it tooth and nail. A terrific addition to the Jewels of the Ton series. I can't wait to see who captures Lily's attention now that I know some interesting things about her.
November 9, 2021
Fallon and Warrick’s story left me with unanswered questions and hopeful they will be given in third book of trilogy.
August 16, 2022
Consent issues galore and a super slow plot made this a slog. The cliffhanger ending just topped off the mess.
March 17, 2022
DNF at 22%
April 2, 2018
These books are entertaining me greatly right now. A nice, pleasant escape. Some extra twists not typically found in this genre. A little more language than I'd prefer.
February 15, 2013
Another excellent Netgalley Find! Seriously, if you are looking for a way to find new authors without the incredible expense of purchasing new books. If you want to dip your toes into the book review world, Netgalley is the way to go. I have found many treasures there.. Books that I might just glance at but never buy.. If You Give A Rake A Ruby by Shana Galen is one such book.
Set on the edges of the ton, that grey area that says if you are rich enough, pretty enough or have enough money you can get away with just about anything. Otherwise you have to work for it and deal with the consequences and the fallout. Shana Galen weaves a wonderful story about three women, scooped out of poverty into the life of the demimonde Sponsored by an amazing couple they create a place where desire rules and yet, really they live a life of carefully crafted half-truths. innuendo and downright lies.
Fallon, the Marchioness of Mystery has dragged herself up from the gutter. A common thief's daughter and yet she refused to become the whore her father wanted her to be. She refused to be sold into Regency England's form of slavery for women. She escaped and was found by the Countess Sinclair. A woman of amazing integrity who was willing to allow the ton to believe her husband was keeping mistresses, in order to give these girls the social cache they needed to succeed. Fallon is now one of the most desired women everyone wants her and yet when push comes to shove it seems no one has had her. She has managed respectability by pretending to be a leading Courtesan. What a way to find your respectability but it has worked for her. She is finally secure and comfortable in her life until as fate would have it a man gets in the way.
Warick Fitzhugh has been disowned by his father for daring to become a spy. Considered a less than honorable career and yet Warick's honor demands he serve. This is a man who sacrifices his all for no other reason than it is the right thing to do. He is not a classic hero, shoot he isn't even all that good looking, but he has charisma.. Warick has to find the traitor who is selling the names of his spy team to the enemy. He has no choice, the queen herself has asked for his help and this task leads him right to Fallon's door. and when Warick and Fallon meet both fall hard.
Ms Galen writes an intricate dance between the ballrooms of the ton and the life lead by the damned. Together Fallon and Warick discover that even they can be deceived by those who are masters at slight of hand. Yet slowly they unravel the puzzle of who the traitor is and who is working for him. Discovering that both of them actually have to face their pasts before they can discover a future is very well done. Amazingly enough their histories intertwine into the present. While they may never have met each holds a piece of the puzzle.
Another interesting twist in this story is Ms Galen's use of PTSD.. we forget that all wars have warriors and there will always be some who have suffered PTSD. There was just no fancy name for it back then.. It was just accepted or hidden away. However that particular time and place demanded it be dealt with. But that doesn't mean it didn't exist. I love when an author makes me think of things like this. This is one reason I have always adored Historical Fiction.. it brings history to life! And reminds us that they were human.
This book works well as a stand alone although it is the second book in Ms Galen's Jewels of the Ton Series. The first being When You Give a Duke A Diamond. The characters from that book were referenced often and it probably should be read first (I know I suggest you start a series at the beginning, whoda thunk it?)
This was an enjoyable read and I think if you are a Regency Romance lover you will enjoy this book.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of If You Give A Rake A Ruby provided by netgalley and is scheduled for release on March 1, 2013
For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Set on the edges of the ton, that grey area that says if you are rich enough, pretty enough or have enough money you can get away with just about anything. Otherwise you have to work for it and deal with the consequences and the fallout. Shana Galen weaves a wonderful story about three women, scooped out of poverty into the life of the demimonde Sponsored by an amazing couple they create a place where desire rules and yet, really they live a life of carefully crafted half-truths. innuendo and downright lies.
Fallon, the Marchioness of Mystery has dragged herself up from the gutter. A common thief's daughter and yet she refused to become the whore her father wanted her to be. She refused to be sold into Regency England's form of slavery for women. She escaped and was found by the Countess Sinclair. A woman of amazing integrity who was willing to allow the ton to believe her husband was keeping mistresses, in order to give these girls the social cache they needed to succeed. Fallon is now one of the most desired women everyone wants her and yet when push comes to shove it seems no one has had her. She has managed respectability by pretending to be a leading Courtesan. What a way to find your respectability but it has worked for her. She is finally secure and comfortable in her life until as fate would have it a man gets in the way.
Warick Fitzhugh has been disowned by his father for daring to become a spy. Considered a less than honorable career and yet Warick's honor demands he serve. This is a man who sacrifices his all for no other reason than it is the right thing to do. He is not a classic hero, shoot he isn't even all that good looking, but he has charisma.. Warick has to find the traitor who is selling the names of his spy team to the enemy. He has no choice, the queen herself has asked for his help and this task leads him right to Fallon's door. and when Warick and Fallon meet both fall hard.
Ms Galen writes an intricate dance between the ballrooms of the ton and the life lead by the damned. Together Fallon and Warick discover that even they can be deceived by those who are masters at slight of hand. Yet slowly they unravel the puzzle of who the traitor is and who is working for him. Discovering that both of them actually have to face their pasts before they can discover a future is very well done. Amazingly enough their histories intertwine into the present. While they may never have met each holds a piece of the puzzle.
Another interesting twist in this story is Ms Galen's use of PTSD.. we forget that all wars have warriors and there will always be some who have suffered PTSD. There was just no fancy name for it back then.. It was just accepted or hidden away. However that particular time and place demanded it be dealt with. But that doesn't mean it didn't exist. I love when an author makes me think of things like this. This is one reason I have always adored Historical Fiction.. it brings history to life! And reminds us that they were human.
This book works well as a stand alone although it is the second book in Ms Galen's Jewels of the Ton Series. The first being When You Give a Duke A Diamond. The characters from that book were referenced often and it probably should be read first (I know I suggest you start a series at the beginning, whoda thunk it?)
This was an enjoyable read and I think if you are a Regency Romance lover you will enjoy this book.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of If You Give A Rake A Ruby provided by netgalley and is scheduled for release on March 1, 2013
For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
February 3, 2013
This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...
A brilliant historical romance! If You Give A Rake a Ruby was a lovely read that I absolutely adored.
I liked that the author went down the road less traveled by and had a different heroine-a courtesan. Fallon was great. She is remarkably strong and clever-as she demonstrates several times throughout the course of the book. After being caught in the middle of a murder mystery, she handles all the danger with aplomb. And this woman had so many secrets-some that totally surprised me. Despite her facade of confidence, she is self-conscious about her place in society-especially because of her past. If there was one thing that bothered me, it was that she was kind of stubborn about not being with Warrick because she wasn't high enough in society for him. But, it was understandable, so it wasn't too much of an issue. I still really liked her character and I think others will as well.
Warrick was amazing. I adored him. He was such a beast-very clever and talented in his profession of intrigue. He was also very determined, evidenced not only by his focus in finding the killer but also in his pursuit of Fallon. It wasn't long into the book before he decided that she was the one for him and, after that, nothing was going to stop him from wooing her. Even if it was in an unconventional situation. He was such a sweetie.
I loved these two together. The sparks were flying right away with these two. And when they ignited, it was VERY hot. But these two were also very sweet together. It was adorable how in love they were, even when they were too stubborn to admit it. Fallon and Warrick are a couple anyone can root for.
The plot of this book is fast and kept me on the edge of my seat. The thrills and danger of a murder mystery were well done and had me breathless. The ending was perfect and now I'm excited to find out what happens to the third jewel: The Countess of Charm.
If You Give a Rake a Ruby is a lovely romance! All romance lovers should definitely give it a try.
A brilliant historical romance! If You Give A Rake a Ruby was a lovely read that I absolutely adored.
I liked that the author went down the road less traveled by and had a different heroine-a courtesan. Fallon was great. She is remarkably strong and clever-as she demonstrates several times throughout the course of the book. After being caught in the middle of a murder mystery, she handles all the danger with aplomb. And this woman had so many secrets-some that totally surprised me. Despite her facade of confidence, she is self-conscious about her place in society-especially because of her past. If there was one thing that bothered me, it was that she was kind of stubborn about not being with Warrick because she wasn't high enough in society for him. But, it was understandable, so it wasn't too much of an issue. I still really liked her character and I think others will as well.
Warrick was amazing. I adored him. He was such a beast-very clever and talented in his profession of intrigue. He was also very determined, evidenced not only by his focus in finding the killer but also in his pursuit of Fallon. It wasn't long into the book before he decided that she was the one for him and, after that, nothing was going to stop him from wooing her. Even if it was in an unconventional situation. He was such a sweetie.
I loved these two together. The sparks were flying right away with these two. And when they ignited, it was VERY hot. But these two were also very sweet together. It was adorable how in love they were, even when they were too stubborn to admit it. Fallon and Warrick are a couple anyone can root for.
The plot of this book is fast and kept me on the edge of my seat. The thrills and danger of a murder mystery were well done and had me breathless. The ending was perfect and now I'm excited to find out what happens to the third jewel: The Countess of Charm.
If You Give a Rake a Ruby is a lovely romance! All romance lovers should definitely give it a try.
March 30, 2013
Review originally posted at http://teddyree-theeclecticreader.blo...
It pains me to say it because I absolutely adore Shana’s books and on Goodreads have given all her previous reads 5 stars….but this book just didn’t grab me. I liked it, but I didn’t love it. I can’t even pinpoint why … I honestly think I need to pick it up again down the track and have another go because I just have to be wrong.
My initial feelings are just that I didn’t feel the connection between the two characters. I feel that Fitzhugh seemed to declare his feelings for Fallon without me really feeling them alongside him.
There are touches of why I love Shana’s books…but overall for me it just didn’t gel.
“Warrick?” Fallon whispered. “I thought you were going to give her-him some sort of code name. You know, Jackal or Raven or Fluffy Bunny.” She detected the ghost of a smile on his lips.
“I don’t have a code name. I wasn’t that sort of operative.”
“You mean to say Fluffy Bunny was taken?”
To give disclosure, I don’t ordinarily like my historical romance when it involves secret spy operations but when a favoured author writes along those lines I’ll always give it a try.
Like I said it could just be me and not the book so don't discount this one. I'll be keen to see what others thought.
It pains me to say it because I absolutely adore Shana’s books and on Goodreads have given all her previous reads 5 stars….but this book just didn’t grab me. I liked it, but I didn’t love it. I can’t even pinpoint why … I honestly think I need to pick it up again down the track and have another go because I just have to be wrong.
My initial feelings are just that I didn’t feel the connection between the two characters. I feel that Fitzhugh seemed to declare his feelings for Fallon without me really feeling them alongside him.
There are touches of why I love Shana’s books…but overall for me it just didn’t gel.
“Warrick?” Fallon whispered. “I thought you were going to give her-him some sort of code name. You know, Jackal or Raven or Fluffy Bunny.” She detected the ghost of a smile on his lips.
“I don’t have a code name. I wasn’t that sort of operative.”
“You mean to say Fluffy Bunny was taken?”
To give disclosure, I don’t ordinarily like my historical romance when it involves secret spy operations but when a favoured author writes along those lines I’ll always give it a try.
Like I said it could just be me and not the book so don't discount this one. I'll be keen to see what others thought.
February 20, 2013
Lately I’ve been developing an appreciation of romances with an espionage twist on the age old story of boy meets girl. Having that element of danger and intrigue mixed with the emotions of two people falling in love just seems to heighten the overall reading experience for me.
If You Give a Rake a Ruby opens only months after events of the previous title, with the underworld of London moving to find the so-called Diamonds in the Rough and eliminate them one by one. As a former operative for the War Office, Warrick Fitzhugh has made it a personal mission to discover the one responsible for leaking the list and who may be funding the termination of the men. In rooting out the crime lords responsible, Warrick also discovers that one of the infamous Three Diamonds, Fallon the Marchioness of Mystery, may be the best leverage he needs to get the answers he wants. Warrick, being a man who deals in secrets, knows exactly how to manipulate Fallon into helping his investigation by threatening to reveal some of hers to the society that has embraced her. With nothing but her reputation sustaining her current way of life, Fallon has little option but to agree.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
If You Give a Rake a Ruby opens only months after events of the previous title, with the underworld of London moving to find the so-called Diamonds in the Rough and eliminate them one by one. As a former operative for the War Office, Warrick Fitzhugh has made it a personal mission to discover the one responsible for leaking the list and who may be funding the termination of the men. In rooting out the crime lords responsible, Warrick also discovers that one of the infamous Three Diamonds, Fallon the Marchioness of Mystery, may be the best leverage he needs to get the answers he wants. Warrick, being a man who deals in secrets, knows exactly how to manipulate Fallon into helping his investigation by threatening to reveal some of hers to the society that has embraced her. With nothing but her reputation sustaining her current way of life, Fallon has little option but to agree.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
May 10, 2013
With book two in the Jewels of the Ton series Shana Galen packs more heat and action than the first! If you love Historical Romance you need to check this author out.
Shana is an author that writes her characters so they worm their way into your heart, usually they have sweet love stories with the hero as the dominant in charge. This time around you still get Warrick acting as a confident demanding man, but his match is the fiery Fallon. What a fun heroine to read about! She is the sort of woman that draws the eyes of men and women alike, sensual and aloof. And when Warrick and Fallon collide, watch out.
If You Give a Rake a Ruby is the second book and continues with the mystery of the Diamonds. There are threats to their lives, and an unpleasant ghost from Fallon’s past wreaks havoc. Warrick and Fallon must work together and, you guessed it, they are attracted to each other even though they fight it. Not to worry because this story line feels fresh and exciting and you even get a nice glimpse of what is in store for us in book three!
Alternate review posted at Reading Between the Wines blog:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...
*ecopy courtesy of NetGalley
Shana is an author that writes her characters so they worm their way into your heart, usually they have sweet love stories with the hero as the dominant in charge. This time around you still get Warrick acting as a confident demanding man, but his match is the fiery Fallon. What a fun heroine to read about! She is the sort of woman that draws the eyes of men and women alike, sensual and aloof. And when Warrick and Fallon collide, watch out.
If You Give a Rake a Ruby is the second book and continues with the mystery of the Diamonds. There are threats to their lives, and an unpleasant ghost from Fallon’s past wreaks havoc. Warrick and Fallon must work together and, you guessed it, they are attracted to each other even though they fight it. Not to worry because this story line feels fresh and exciting and you even get a nice glimpse of what is in store for us in book three!
Alternate review posted at Reading Between the Wines blog:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...
*ecopy courtesy of NetGalley
March 15, 2013
For some reason this book didn't quite do it for me. The bad thing is is that I was looking forward to Fallon's story. I loved the first book in the series and had high hopes for this one, but I just didn't feel the relationship between the Fallon and Warrick. True to form for Ms. Galen there was a great deal of danger and action that was fun to read. The romance fell flat, it just seemed as if it was rushed. One minute Warrick is blackmailing Fallon to help and then the next he's informing her they will be getting married because he loves her. The involvement of Lily in the action was a nice surprise and I'll be looking forward to reading her book. Be sure to read in order for the best understanding of why they are The Jewels of the Ton.
September 18, 2015
Fallon, also known as The Marchioness of Mystery, must deal with danger, her past and a spy with post traumatic stress. Warren Fitzhugh is trying to find out who wants him, and other agents, dead. He falls in love with Fallon but convincing her of that may be harder than finding the bad guys. I really enjoyed this fast paced book. A lot happens in a short amount of time. No real plot spoilers from me.
This book can be read alone, but I think you will enjoy it more if you've read the first one of this trilogy, "When You Give a Duke a Diamond". I highly recommend this book.
This book can be read alone, but I think you will enjoy it more if you've read the first one of this trilogy, "When You Give a Duke a Diamond". I highly recommend this book.
February 11, 2013
Ehhhhh..... too many pet peeves and a far-too-predictable too-stupid-to-live moment put this one into the category of Just Not For Me.
I'll still read Lily's book, though, because I do like the overall story arc with the Three Diamonds, but Fallon's book just isn't my cuppa.
3/5, full review to follow.
I'll still read Lily's book, though, because I do like the overall story arc with the Three Diamonds, but Fallon's book just isn't my cuppa.
3/5, full review to follow.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews