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Muses of Mayfair #2
Scotsmen Prefer Blondes
She never wanted marriage...
When a friend is forced to consider a marriage of convenience, Lady Amelia Staunton is determined to rescue her. But her plans trap her in an illicit seduction, and Amelia must marry him herself. Malcolm’s all-consuming kisses and devilish humor might make up for her lost freedom, but she believes he will force her to abandon the Gothic romances she yearns to write. Since she can’t escape him, she must distract him from her secret...
He isn’t looking for love...
A powerful autocrat with a well-hidden rebellious streak, Malcolm MacCabe doesn’t need another beautiful mistress–he needs an obedient wife. Obedience is not one of Amelia’s virtues. But he’s too enthralled by her wit and passion to let her go–even if it means risking the political reputation he is building to save his clan.
Their hearts can’t survive the scandal...
Despite their intentions, every wicked embrace binds them together. But as their conflicting desires combust into insatiable hunger and unavoidable ruin, they must decide whether to pursue their personal destinies alone–or fight for the love that could destroy them both.
When a friend is forced to consider a marriage of convenience, Lady Amelia Staunton is determined to rescue her. But her plans trap her in an illicit seduction, and Amelia must marry him herself. Malcolm’s all-consuming kisses and devilish humor might make up for her lost freedom, but she believes he will force her to abandon the Gothic romances she yearns to write. Since she can’t escape him, she must distract him from her secret...
He isn’t looking for love...
A powerful autocrat with a well-hidden rebellious streak, Malcolm MacCabe doesn’t need another beautiful mistress–he needs an obedient wife. Obedience is not one of Amelia’s virtues. But he’s too enthralled by her wit and passion to let her go–even if it means risking the political reputation he is building to save his clan.
Their hearts can’t survive the scandal...
Despite their intentions, every wicked embrace binds them together. But as their conflicting desires combust into insatiable hunger and unavoidable ruin, they must decide whether to pursue their personal destinies alone–or fight for the love that could destroy them both.
314 pages, ebook
First published April 4, 2012
119 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
About the author
Sara Ramsey
9 books289 followersSara Ramsey writes fun, feisty Regency historical romances. She won the prestigious 2009 Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® award with her second book, Scotsmen Prefer Blondes. Her first book, Heiress Without A Cause, was a 2011 Golden Heart finalist.
Hopelessly uncool as a child, Sara has overcompensated by becoming obsessed with fashion, shoes, and #regencyworldproblems. She has great taste in Champagne, bad taste in movies, and a penchant for tiaras. She also believes in taking naps, wearing sunglasses at night, and using Oxford commas. Sara currently lives in San Francisco, California, where she can be found drinking overly-artistic lattes and working on her next Regency historical romance.
Hopelessly uncool as a child, Sara has overcompensated by becoming obsessed with fashion, shoes, and #regencyworldproblems. She has great taste in Champagne, bad taste in movies, and a penchant for tiaras. She also believes in taking naps, wearing sunglasses at night, and using Oxford commas. Sara currently lives in San Francisco, California, where she can be found drinking overly-artistic lattes and working on her next Regency historical romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
June 4, 2012
4/5 Stars
This is the second novel in Sara Ramsey’s Muses of Mayfair series. After reading Madeleine’s book we knew that this had potential to be a good story as Amelia is stubborn and feisty and even Madeleine’s husband Ferguson had nicknamed her ‘The Harpy’.
Amelia has travelled to Scotland with her friend Prudence, who due to monetary problems is forced to consider a marriage of convenience to Malcolm McCabe, the Earl of Carnach. The Earl wants a quiet biddable wife who will be a good social hostess and not disgrace him in any way but unfortunately for him he is instantly drawn to Amelia and decides that she must be his wife instead. He corners her in the library for a kiss but are found by Amelia’s brother and despite her protesting is forced to marry Malcolm.
At the start they have a very passionate but rocky marriage as both are strong characters and Amelia is far from a shrinking violet, but she soon starts to soften as she realizes that she loves Malcolm, and wants to spend as much time with him as possible and dreaded that he or the Ton would find out her secret. Needless to say that secret is discovered and this sets them upon a very rocky path.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and wanted to quickly read this one too. I love the characters and like that we have been given strong women who despite the period, really do not want to get married just for the sake of settling. Their partners are also very strong which means that we are guaranteed to see sparks fly and know that the path to happiness will not be smooth.
According to Ms Ramsey’s website the next book (Ellie’s story) will be out Summer 2012. There isn’t a specific date but I can only hope that it is very soon :)
Copy kindly supplied by Spencerhill Associates Ltd via Netgalley
This is the second novel in Sara Ramsey’s Muses of Mayfair series. After reading Madeleine’s book we knew that this had potential to be a good story as Amelia is stubborn and feisty and even Madeleine’s husband Ferguson had nicknamed her ‘The Harpy’.
Amelia has travelled to Scotland with her friend Prudence, who due to monetary problems is forced to consider a marriage of convenience to Malcolm McCabe, the Earl of Carnach. The Earl wants a quiet biddable wife who will be a good social hostess and not disgrace him in any way but unfortunately for him he is instantly drawn to Amelia and decides that she must be his wife instead. He corners her in the library for a kiss but are found by Amelia’s brother and despite her protesting is forced to marry Malcolm.
At the start they have a very passionate but rocky marriage as both are strong characters and Amelia is far from a shrinking violet, but she soon starts to soften as she realizes that she loves Malcolm, and wants to spend as much time with him as possible and dreaded that he or the Ton would find out her secret. Needless to say that secret is discovered and this sets them upon a very rocky path.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and wanted to quickly read this one too. I love the characters and like that we have been given strong women who despite the period, really do not want to get married just for the sake of settling. Their partners are also very strong which means that we are guaranteed to see sparks fly and know that the path to happiness will not be smooth.
According to Ms Ramsey’s website the next book (Ellie’s story) will be out Summer 2012. There isn’t a specific date but I can only hope that it is very soon :)
Copy kindly supplied by Spencerhill Associates Ltd via Netgalley
October 28, 2014
I couldn't get through it mostly because I couldn't stand Amelia's character. I felt really bad for Prudence. Not a fun read.
November 15, 2022
can't pinpoint what is it exactly, but this book is missing some finesse to make it great
there are many great elements there but yeah it is not there
I guess if you have audible plus check it out...
there are many great elements there but yeah it is not there
I guess if you have audible plus check it out...
April 18, 2012
This one, provided by netgalley was really difficult for me to review. There were parts of it that I really enjoyed, but there were also parts of it that made me struggle to finish it. Having said that, I'm really glad I did finish it.
So, what did I like?
- The writing, although a bit raw at times, needing a bit more polish, has a wittiness and freshness that I really liked. I liked how the author managed to convey not only how irrational emotions are, but also how people are perfectly aware of how irrational their emotions are. I also liked how the author isn't afraid to show that friends sometimes fall out, and even sometimes can hate each other with a vengeance (something which HRs are never very good at IMO, almost as though HR readers are incapable of reading a book set anywhere other than paradise). Also, the author doesn't overdo the wit and inadvertently turn the whole story into mush, or use pointless, fluffy banter.
- I also absolutely loved the basic premise of this story. A woman wants to retain her independence, pursue her dreams and absolutely does not want to get married. I was completely sucked into the injustice of the situation the heroine finds herself in - indeed, I think I was more pissed than she was... It's incredibly rare for an HR to really grapple with this subject in a remotely convincing way.
So, what didn't I like so much?
- I had a real problem with the heroine. She appears to have a backbone of steel, but at every step seems to just cave and do a pretty good impression of a doormat. It was actually extremely painful to read how she was such a shallow individual that with one glare at her boobs from the hero, but she basically forgot her name, her dreams, and indeed, her entire personality. It was cringeworthy. I wanted a spitfire! I wanted a heroine who was so angry at being trapped, that she was willing to shag her husbands brothers, all at once, or at least threaten to, to get out of a ridiculous marriage! I wanted a woman who had no problem walking out on her husband for being such a turd (see next), and could show him the bird on the way out the door! Alas, she was none of these things...
- I also had a real problem with the hero, although I do realize that he's supposed to be a complete prat, but I would have preferred him not to be on the Idiotic Oaf side and rather on the Intelligent But Arrogant Jerk side. Just personal preference I guess, but there were several times when I really felt that if the heroine wasn't doing to inflict bodily harm on him, then I'd do her a favor and beat him to a pulp with my kindle..
- There is a whole cast of secondary characters for whom I didn't care. They occupy far too much space in the book, spend the whole time treating the heroine like a cretin and have the most irritating names (Elllie, Mellie, Maddy...) I never like Peter or Penelope Perfects in my romances, and here there is a whole flock of them, and, worse still, they discuss subjects which I struggle to believe women would have discussed with anyone (I certainly wouldn't, and I obviously don't live in the considerably more straightlaced Regency period). They just felt unnecessary.
So, this book had some flaws, but I did like the basic premise and the writing in the last 15% of the story went a long way to redeeming it IMO. I'll probably wait to see other reviews before I decide to read the others in the series (it's not necessary to read the first book in the series BTW, which I do appreciate), but I'll certainly keep my eyes on this author.
So, what did I like?
- The writing, although a bit raw at times, needing a bit more polish, has a wittiness and freshness that I really liked. I liked how the author managed to convey not only how irrational emotions are, but also how people are perfectly aware of how irrational their emotions are. I also liked how the author isn't afraid to show that friends sometimes fall out, and even sometimes can hate each other with a vengeance (something which HRs are never very good at IMO, almost as though HR readers are incapable of reading a book set anywhere other than paradise). Also, the author doesn't overdo the wit and inadvertently turn the whole story into mush, or use pointless, fluffy banter.
- I also absolutely loved the basic premise of this story. A woman wants to retain her independence, pursue her dreams and absolutely does not want to get married. I was completely sucked into the injustice of the situation the heroine finds herself in - indeed, I think I was more pissed than she was... It's incredibly rare for an HR to really grapple with this subject in a remotely convincing way.
So, what didn't I like so much?
- I had a real problem with the heroine. She appears to have a backbone of steel, but at every step seems to just cave and do a pretty good impression of a doormat. It was actually extremely painful to read how she was such a shallow individual that with one glare at her boobs from the hero, but she basically forgot her name, her dreams, and indeed, her entire personality. It was cringeworthy. I wanted a spitfire! I wanted a heroine who was so angry at being trapped, that she was willing to shag her husbands brothers, all at once, or at least threaten to, to get out of a ridiculous marriage! I wanted a woman who had no problem walking out on her husband for being such a turd (see next), and could show him the bird on the way out the door! Alas, she was none of these things...
- I also had a real problem with the hero, although I do realize that he's supposed to be a complete prat, but I would have preferred him not to be on the Idiotic Oaf side and rather on the Intelligent But Arrogant Jerk side. Just personal preference I guess, but there were several times when I really felt that if the heroine wasn't doing to inflict bodily harm on him, then I'd do her a favor and beat him to a pulp with my kindle..
- There is a whole cast of secondary characters for whom I didn't care. They occupy far too much space in the book, spend the whole time treating the heroine like a cretin and have the most irritating names (Elllie, Mellie, Maddy...) I never like Peter or Penelope Perfects in my romances, and here there is a whole flock of them, and, worse still, they discuss subjects which I struggle to believe women would have discussed with anyone (I certainly wouldn't, and I obviously don't live in the considerably more straightlaced Regency period). They just felt unnecessary.
So, this book had some flaws, but I did like the basic premise and the writing in the last 15% of the story went a long way to redeeming it IMO. I'll probably wait to see other reviews before I decide to read the others in the series (it's not necessary to read the first book in the series BTW, which I do appreciate), but I'll certainly keep my eyes on this author.
November 26, 2016
I have to say I'm disappointed with Scotsmen Perfer Blondes. I read Heiress Without a Cause, the first book in this series and absolutely loved it. Even though I don't get to read as much as I used to, I had to download this with the audio for $1.99.
While the first book kept me enthralled from beginning to end, this one had me ready to give up several times. I even tried to return the Kindle version, but I'd had it too long I guess. It rare for me to want to give up on a book. Since that wasn't possible, I figured I might as well finish with hopes it would improve It didn't.
I did not like Amelia at all. She acted very immature and self-centered. While she was supposed to be a strong independent woman, who never wanted to marry, she acted like a doormat on several occasions. Once she felt compelled to marry Malcolm, she gave into his tirades and obnoxious behavior.
You guessed, it did not like Malcolm by the end of the book, even though, I did like him fairly well up until the part where a cottage on his estate burned. The tide turned when he brutally takes Amelia, leving bruises on her hips!
As I read this, I was reminded of Cathy and Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights. Amelia and Malcolm act as mercurial as they did, going from hot to cold in the blink of an eye.
I really wanted to like this book, but in the end, even though it does have a decent ending, it just wasn't strong enough to redeem either character for me. Happy reading!
While the first book kept me enthralled from beginning to end, this one had me ready to give up several times. I even tried to return the Kindle version, but I'd had it too long I guess. It rare for me to want to give up on a book. Since that wasn't possible, I figured I might as well finish with hopes it would improve It didn't.
I did not like Amelia at all. She acted very immature and self-centered. While she was supposed to be a strong independent woman, who never wanted to marry, she acted like a doormat on several occasions. Once she felt compelled to marry Malcolm, she gave into his tirades and obnoxious behavior.
You guessed, it did not like Malcolm by the end of the book, even though, I did like him fairly well up until the part where a cottage on his estate burned. The tide turned when he brutally takes Amelia, leving bruises on her hips!
As I read this, I was reminded of Cathy and Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights. Amelia and Malcolm act as mercurial as they did, going from hot to cold in the blink of an eye.
I really wanted to like this book, but in the end, even though it does have a decent ending, it just wasn't strong enough to redeem either character for me. Happy reading!
March 25, 2024
Still interesting as the first book, but this time the mix between the romance of the protagonists and the plot (rather weak to me) was not always as captivating.
I liked Amelia and Malcolm and their respective personalities and goals, but it just wasn't a story I was riveted about.
I liked Amelia and Malcolm and their respective personalities and goals, but it just wasn't a story I was riveted about.
April 12, 2012
Ramsey's titles are cute and her ideas are good, but her writing could use a bit more polish. Honestly, for most of the book I was tempted to give it 2 stars--there is a lot more telling instead of showing, and the characters really felt wooden throughout a lot of it. I wasn't even sure they were as invested in their own story as I was, and I spent more time than usual while reading checking just how far I was in the book! The last third or so got better, though, and overall it left me with a more positive impression in the end than I would have thought possible given the first half. I'm willing to give the first book a try, because this one referred back to its events enough that I do want to see what exactly happened in Madeline and Ferguson's story, and of course we get just enough of a teaser here of Ellie's story in book three so that I'll probably pick that one up too, if given the chance.
July 23, 2013
Sara Ramsey where have you been all my life...lol This is yet another fantastic Highland Lust/Love Story..I can't express enough how amazing the writing is!!!
" He was nearly as chiseled as any ancient statue, but he wasn't cold- he was heat, and velvet with a surprising amount of dark hair leading down his belly toward the opening she worked to unfasten"...I mean holy hotness! This was one of the cleaner highlights I have from this book..lol and there were many moments I just adored the writing!!
Sheer poetry to the page..
"Despite all the odds, and all her denials, she'd found what she needed. And it wasn't in the pages of a book. It was in his heart, bleeding on the ground in front of her, waiting for her to pick it up".
Two people with an undeniable attraction for each other, one throwing caution to the wind, and the other afraid to lose themselves.
But what a way to be lost!! 5 Star read..
" He was nearly as chiseled as any ancient statue, but he wasn't cold- he was heat, and velvet with a surprising amount of dark hair leading down his belly toward the opening she worked to unfasten"...I mean holy hotness! This was one of the cleaner highlights I have from this book..lol and there were many moments I just adored the writing!!
Sheer poetry to the page..
"Despite all the odds, and all her denials, she'd found what she needed. And it wasn't in the pages of a book. It was in his heart, bleeding on the ground in front of her, waiting for her to pick it up".
Two people with an undeniable attraction for each other, one throwing caution to the wind, and the other afraid to lose themselves.
But what a way to be lost!! 5 Star read..
November 7, 2017
This was ok. It started off really well but tended to flounder slightly in the middle. The MC's shared great chemistry but I found that the heroine's secret was kept hidden far too long. The ending made up for it a bit, though because it was very romantic. I did enjoy the meddling heroine Amelia but couldn't stand her prim bluestocking mousy friend Prudence. I know I will never read the novel in the series that details Prudence's romance. I just don't like characters like Prudence. Amelia had bluestocking tendencies, because she was a writer but she never allowed it to crush her spirit and vibrancy.
March 15, 2017
A wonderful read of opposites attract, enticing story that captivates from the beginning. The chemistry between Malcolm and Prudence is sizzling there's passion (lots of it)
some suspense betrayal and witty dialogue! Scotsmen Prefer Blondes is definitely a winner! I definitely recommend Sara Ramsey's books
some suspense betrayal and witty dialogue! Scotsmen Prefer Blondes is definitely a winner! I definitely recommend Sara Ramsey's books
June 29, 2019
This is the second book in the Muses of Mayfair series with many of the previous characters making an appearance. It can be read as a stand-alone.
So far in this series the theme is about secrets and the downfall of the characters when they don't come clean and of course what evolves when they eventually do.
The two main characters, Amelia and Malcolm, are both extremely stubborn, both wanting to get their own way and both of them very passionate people - and I just loved all of these things and how they form the basis of this story which is so well written that I hardly noticed how much time had gone by while I was reading it.
This is one of those books that I am happy to recommend to anyone who loves historical romance with a mystery, humor and also a bit of steam and I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did.
So far in this series the theme is about secrets and the downfall of the characters when they don't come clean and of course what evolves when they eventually do.
The two main characters, Amelia and Malcolm, are both extremely stubborn, both wanting to get their own way and both of them very passionate people - and I just loved all of these things and how they form the basis of this story which is so well written that I hardly noticed how much time had gone by while I was reading it.
This is one of those books that I am happy to recommend to anyone who loves historical romance with a mystery, humor and also a bit of steam and I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did.
March 20, 2020
had read this story years ago and for some reason I stumbled on it and decides to reread- I did like this couple and loved the last chapter the best, especially his begging when he realizes he screwed up..Now need to know what happened with Prudence even though really didn't care for her.
December 18, 2021
Not crazy about the hero nor the heroin. Sneaking around at night in the library having clandestine meetings when the hero is supposed to be courting the heroin's best friend.
April 18, 2012
Reviewed for Wickedly Bookish
http://wickedlybookish.blogspot.com/
Amelia, a spinster at 27 is secretly a published author. In order to pursue her dreams, she vowed never to marry. However when Amelia agreed to accompany her dear friend, Prudence to meet her potential fiance, she never expected to become the object of Lord Carnach's desire. In an unfortunate turn of events, Amelia finds herself in a tenuous situation. Marry Lord Carnach or be ruined in the eyes of the ton. Either way she has earned the ire of Prudence who is one of the three people who know Amelia's scandalous literary secret.
Malcolm is a Scottish laird who desperately wants to save his clan and their home in the Highlands by joining the House of Lords. He seeks an obedient and simple wife in Prudence to help him reach his political aspirations without scandal. However when he lays eyes on Amelia, he can't deny the magnetic attraction he feels towards her. Will he be able to tame her into the wife he needs or will their passion consume them both?
While I ate the majority of this book up there were a few things about it that irked me. After tearing through the first half like a mad woman, I started to notice a continuing pattern that at first presents an interesting twist to Malcolm and Amelia's romance, but becomes frustrating after the fourth or so repetition. The whole basis of this book's plot is that Amelia never wanted to be married, but now that she is, she is altogether the wrong kind of wife for Malcolm's political career. I very much enjoy the premise of an unlikely pair finding love and understand that this requires quite a bit of back and forth, "I love him, I hate him." However, instead of feelings and complications evolving over time, the two characters are stuck with the same issues throughout the entire book. Plus, they spend very little time actually considering their situation and substituting actual relationship building for loads and loads of sex. It sort of goes like this...
Malcolm: Are you going to behave woman?
Amelia: Are you going to force me into subservience so that I will have no time to write my...letters?
Malcolm: (Gets distracted by her breasts) Um... letters? What could you possibly be writing to people about!?
Amelia: You know... stuff, the Highlands, London stuff...
Malcolm: (Still distracted by her breasts) There's something she's not telling me... Oh well! Bend over darling!
Obviously that's only my abbreviated version of events, but you get the idea. This sort of thing happens over and over again. After half of the book I felt like the romance just wasn't developing and they were trading sex for avoidance of the real issues. Finally at 2/3 of the way through, it has to actually be stated point blank, "I think I'm in love with him/her" by each of them internally in order for you to get the gist that all this bumping and grinding hasn't been for nothing. I feel if the emotional side of the romance was better developed earlier on in the story, this would have been an excellent read for me.
As it stands, this was still a good read, much better than many of the historical romance I've been indulging in lately. I enjoyed the premise of Amelia, who was determined for spinsterhood, lands herself in a marry or be ruined situation. The irony that she is stuck in a situation she would have written for one of her heroines was attractive and I loved reading about how the Highlands and Malcolm were inspiring her to be a better writer. Even though I didn't enjoy the constant back and forth I did appreciate the fact that there were no easy answers here. Everything doesn't magically fall into place and work out in the end. The characters have to work for their goals.
Overall, I felt Scotsmen Prefer Blondes is an enjoyable read read for lovers of the genre and will likely charm less picky readers.
http://wickedlybookish.blogspot.com/
Amelia, a spinster at 27 is secretly a published author. In order to pursue her dreams, she vowed never to marry. However when Amelia agreed to accompany her dear friend, Prudence to meet her potential fiance, she never expected to become the object of Lord Carnach's desire. In an unfortunate turn of events, Amelia finds herself in a tenuous situation. Marry Lord Carnach or be ruined in the eyes of the ton. Either way she has earned the ire of Prudence who is one of the three people who know Amelia's scandalous literary secret.
Malcolm is a Scottish laird who desperately wants to save his clan and their home in the Highlands by joining the House of Lords. He seeks an obedient and simple wife in Prudence to help him reach his political aspirations without scandal. However when he lays eyes on Amelia, he can't deny the magnetic attraction he feels towards her. Will he be able to tame her into the wife he needs or will their passion consume them both?
While I ate the majority of this book up there were a few things about it that irked me. After tearing through the first half like a mad woman, I started to notice a continuing pattern that at first presents an interesting twist to Malcolm and Amelia's romance, but becomes frustrating after the fourth or so repetition. The whole basis of this book's plot is that Amelia never wanted to be married, but now that she is, she is altogether the wrong kind of wife for Malcolm's political career. I very much enjoy the premise of an unlikely pair finding love and understand that this requires quite a bit of back and forth, "I love him, I hate him." However, instead of feelings and complications evolving over time, the two characters are stuck with the same issues throughout the entire book. Plus, they spend very little time actually considering their situation and substituting actual relationship building for loads and loads of sex. It sort of goes like this...
Malcolm: Are you going to behave woman?
Amelia: Are you going to force me into subservience so that I will have no time to write my...letters?
Malcolm: (Gets distracted by her breasts) Um... letters? What could you possibly be writing to people about!?
Amelia: You know... stuff, the Highlands, London stuff...
Malcolm: (Still distracted by her breasts) There's something she's not telling me... Oh well! Bend over darling!
Obviously that's only my abbreviated version of events, but you get the idea. This sort of thing happens over and over again. After half of the book I felt like the romance just wasn't developing and they were trading sex for avoidance of the real issues. Finally at 2/3 of the way through, it has to actually be stated point blank, "I think I'm in love with him/her" by each of them internally in order for you to get the gist that all this bumping and grinding hasn't been for nothing. I feel if the emotional side of the romance was better developed earlier on in the story, this would have been an excellent read for me.
As it stands, this was still a good read, much better than many of the historical romance I've been indulging in lately. I enjoyed the premise of Amelia, who was determined for spinsterhood, lands herself in a marry or be ruined situation. The irony that she is stuck in a situation she would have written for one of her heroines was attractive and I loved reading about how the Highlands and Malcolm were inspiring her to be a better writer. Even though I didn't enjoy the constant back and forth I did appreciate the fact that there were no easy answers here. Everything doesn't magically fall into place and work out in the end. The characters have to work for their goals.
Overall, I felt Scotsmen Prefer Blondes is an enjoyable read read for lovers of the genre and will likely charm less picky readers.
October 6, 2015
At A Glance
I liked the story, but not the characters.
The Good
You'd read Scotsmen Prefer Blondes for the story, not the characters. It's chock-full of misunderstandings, betrayals, and stubborn personalities. A fun combination.
Amelia, really, really wanted to maintain her independence and just be able to write her books in peace and secrecy. Of course, that all has to be ruined by a big, sexy Scotsman. Malcolm wants a obedient wife to sit by his side and look pretty while he advances his career in the world of politics, but his attraction to Amelia's firey spirit is too hard to resist. I loved their predicament. So juice and complicated.
The characters didn't keep me reading, but the drama heavy plot did. I HAD to know what would happen at the end. This story is raw. The characters have a lot of flaws and often don't do the right thing. I always had this sense of sadness while reading because nothing seems to go right for anyone. And for some reason, I kind of liked it. Not even sure why.
The Bad
Amelia seemed really strong at first but every time Malcolm kissed her she became a compliant, non-thinking mush ball who had no aspirations of her own. She let Malcolm get away with way too much. A very weak character in the end.
Malcolm ruins Amelia on purpose so she is forced to marry him or else lose face in society, even though he knows the girl he is meant for is her best friend. He cared nothing for their ruined friendship. He also cared nothing for Amelia's feelings toward the end when her secrets come out. He is actually psychologically abusive in my opinion. He used sex to control Amelia and rejected her so many times after using her body for both their pleasure, it was kind of sickening to watch.
I did not like any of the side characters either. Prudence is the woman spurned by Malcolm but she hates her best friend, who honestly was there for Prudence's best interest, more than the man who actually forced the witnessed kiss on Amelia. Prudence then blackballs her and pretty much ruins Amelia's life by spilling her secrets. I felt bad for Prudence for one second until she showed her true colors. And the rest of Amelia's friends are just as bad. They don't seem like friends at all.
The Snuggly
The sex was good in the beginning since there was a lot of sexual attraction, but once the sex turned into a tool to control Amelia and downright degradation, I started skimming.
Final Thoughts
Even though I kind of hated the characters in Scotsmen Prefer Blondes, I still enjoyed it, as stupid as that sounds. I think I am in this weird reading phase, odd reviews are coming out as a result. So...yeah. Recommended, kinda.
Quotes
"Despite all the odds, and all her denials, she'd found what she needed. And it wasn't in the pages of a book. It was in his heart, bleeding on the ground in front of her, waiting for her to pick it up."
This review was originally posted on Bad Bird Reads
I liked the story, but not the characters.
The Good
You'd read Scotsmen Prefer Blondes for the story, not the characters. It's chock-full of misunderstandings, betrayals, and stubborn personalities. A fun combination.
Amelia, really, really wanted to maintain her independence and just be able to write her books in peace and secrecy. Of course, that all has to be ruined by a big, sexy Scotsman. Malcolm wants a obedient wife to sit by his side and look pretty while he advances his career in the world of politics, but his attraction to Amelia's firey spirit is too hard to resist. I loved their predicament. So juice and complicated.
The characters didn't keep me reading, but the drama heavy plot did. I HAD to know what would happen at the end. This story is raw. The characters have a lot of flaws and often don't do the right thing. I always had this sense of sadness while reading because nothing seems to go right for anyone. And for some reason, I kind of liked it. Not even sure why.
The Bad
Amelia seemed really strong at first but every time Malcolm kissed her she became a compliant, non-thinking mush ball who had no aspirations of her own. She let Malcolm get away with way too much. A very weak character in the end.
Malcolm ruins Amelia on purpose so she is forced to marry him or else lose face in society, even though he knows the girl he is meant for is her best friend. He cared nothing for their ruined friendship. He also cared nothing for Amelia's feelings toward the end when her secrets come out. He is actually psychologically abusive in my opinion. He used sex to control Amelia and rejected her so many times after using her body for both their pleasure, it was kind of sickening to watch.
I did not like any of the side characters either. Prudence is the woman spurned by Malcolm but she hates her best friend, who honestly was there for Prudence's best interest, more than the man who actually forced the witnessed kiss on Amelia. Prudence then blackballs her and pretty much ruins Amelia's life by spilling her secrets. I felt bad for Prudence for one second until she showed her true colors. And the rest of Amelia's friends are just as bad. They don't seem like friends at all.
The Snuggly
The sex was good in the beginning since there was a lot of sexual attraction, but once the sex turned into a tool to control Amelia and downright degradation, I started skimming.
Final Thoughts
Even though I kind of hated the characters in Scotsmen Prefer Blondes, I still enjoyed it, as stupid as that sounds. I think I am in this weird reading phase, odd reviews are coming out as a result. So...yeah. Recommended, kinda.
Quotes
"Despite all the odds, and all her denials, she'd found what she needed. And it wasn't in the pages of a book. It was in his heart, bleeding on the ground in front of her, waiting for her to pick it up."
April 30, 2012
When Prue is set up to marry a sexy Scottish laird, her friend Amelia comes along to make the road easier. No one expects that Malcolm will truly fancy Amelia over the woman with whom he was expected to make a match. Even more confounding is the fact that Amelia returns his feelings. She would never betray her friend, but an unexpected kiss does just that. And before you know it, Amelia and Malcolm are married.
Malcolm never wanted a love match. He wanted a wife who would be politically advantageous, as he worked to champion Scotland in the House of Lords. But instead of a biddable and traditional woman, Amelia is fiery and passionate. He doesn't know it, but she is a published writer with a hidden identity, one that could destroy her reputation --and his-- if it ever comes to light.
The story follows Malcolm and Amelia as they try to balance their growing feelings for one another, with the futures they have always worked to cultivate for themselves. This, while Amelia waits in fear that her jilted friend Prue will reveal her deepest secret out of spite.
I liked Amelia and her passion. She refuses to wilt even under the constraints her new husband places on her. I felt like she really loved Malcolm and her only real mistake was keeping her secret from him. I can't be quite so charitable about Malcolm. His autocratic and domineering behavior in the second half of the book really made me mad. I think it was made worse by the fact we had already seen the kind of man he was capable of being, during the honeymoon phase of the relationship. The fact that he loved Amelia made it even more damaging when he cast those feelings aside for his "greater purpose." Obviously, he realizes the error of his ways, but by the time he does, I would have been just as happy to see Amelia kick him in the shins as accept his apology.
The sex is good, but served too often as a crutch in their relationship. I felt like Amelia let her passion for Malcolm override her self-respect a little. I do love how Sara Ramsey keeps working the word "manroot" into her books. And that she manages to create characters that keep me entertained and interested throughout the story. I've got my fingers crosses for an Alex and Prue pairing in book 3. Anyone with me?
3 1/2 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
Malcolm never wanted a love match. He wanted a wife who would be politically advantageous, as he worked to champion Scotland in the House of Lords. But instead of a biddable and traditional woman, Amelia is fiery and passionate. He doesn't know it, but she is a published writer with a hidden identity, one that could destroy her reputation --and his-- if it ever comes to light.
The story follows Malcolm and Amelia as they try to balance their growing feelings for one another, with the futures they have always worked to cultivate for themselves. This, while Amelia waits in fear that her jilted friend Prue will reveal her deepest secret out of spite.
I liked Amelia and her passion. She refuses to wilt even under the constraints her new husband places on her. I felt like she really loved Malcolm and her only real mistake was keeping her secret from him. I can't be quite so charitable about Malcolm. His autocratic and domineering behavior in the second half of the book really made me mad. I think it was made worse by the fact we had already seen the kind of man he was capable of being, during the honeymoon phase of the relationship. The fact that he loved Amelia made it even more damaging when he cast those feelings aside for his "greater purpose." Obviously, he realizes the error of his ways, but by the time he does, I would have been just as happy to see Amelia kick him in the shins as accept his apology.
The sex is good, but served too often as a crutch in their relationship. I felt like Amelia let her passion for Malcolm override her self-respect a little. I do love how Sara Ramsey keeps working the word "manroot" into her books. And that she manages to create characters that keep me entertained and interested throughout the story. I've got my fingers crosses for an Alex and Prue pairing in book 3. Anyone with me?
3 1/2 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
September 25, 2012
Scotsmen Prefer Blondes is the second installment in the Muses of Mayfair series. It was fantastic. I really liked the first book, Heiress Without a Cause, but I really liked Scotsmen Prefer Blondes. I really liked Mellie's character, so I was really looking forward to her story. I wasn't disappointed.
Now, I'm really excited to read Ellie's story in The Marquess Who Loved Me.
In regards to Scotsmen Prefer Blondes, Sara Ramsey did another wonderful job with the plot and characters. She balanced all the elements quite nicely, and I really appreciated all the references from the first book. This book can be read alone, but I highly recommend reading them in order. You really get to know the characters better this way.
Like the first book, I fell in love with all the characters. The novel itself is quite the page-turner. I'm a huge fan of the Regency time period, so I appreciate the obvious effort that Sara Ramsey has done in regards to her research. She's quite the talented storyteller. Everything runs smoothly, and everything is tied up nicely--no loose ends. The only thing the reader is left wanting is the next book in the series.
I can't wait to read Ellie's story, but I'm really anticipating Prue's story. There have been hints throughout both books, so I'm crossing my fingers about the outcome :-).
Thanks again for another fantastic read, Sara Ramsey. Happy Reading to the rest of y'all.
Now, I'm really excited to read Ellie's story in The Marquess Who Loved Me.
In regards to Scotsmen Prefer Blondes, Sara Ramsey did another wonderful job with the plot and characters. She balanced all the elements quite nicely, and I really appreciated all the references from the first book. This book can be read alone, but I highly recommend reading them in order. You really get to know the characters better this way.
Like the first book, I fell in love with all the characters. The novel itself is quite the page-turner. I'm a huge fan of the Regency time period, so I appreciate the obvious effort that Sara Ramsey has done in regards to her research. She's quite the talented storyteller. Everything runs smoothly, and everything is tied up nicely--no loose ends. The only thing the reader is left wanting is the next book in the series.
I can't wait to read Ellie's story, but I'm really anticipating Prue's story. There have been hints throughout both books, so I'm crossing my fingers about the outcome :-).
Thanks again for another fantastic read, Sara Ramsey. Happy Reading to the rest of y'all.
April 26, 2012
First Posted on Romancing the Book Blog
Reviewed By~Robin
Review Copy Provided By~ ARC from Netgalley
I just loved the second book in Ms. Ramsey’s Muses of Mayfair Series. In this lovely story, Scotsman Prefer Blondes, we find Amelia falling in love. This time the story takes us out of England and into Scotland where dreams can come true in those musty old castles.
Malcolm meets Prue and takes her to dinner only to find that he is drawn to her friend Amelia. Amelia seeing that Prue is really scared and needs help decides to meddle in her affairs only to find herself compromised by kissing Malcolm and being forced to marry him. Secretly Prue is thankful but is also, mad that Amelia once again meddled in her friends affairs only to cause problems. Prue thought this to be her only way to escape her mother.
As we move on in the story I couldn’t help but fall in love with Malcolm and Amelia. Where they find that sexually they are quite compatible there are always those secrets that seem to throw a wrench into every beginning of a good relationship.
Moving to London to take his place in Parliament in hopes of helping his clan Malcolm is faced with Amelia’s past. That of a writer, in disguise, yet not just any writer but one that dared to wrote a book that tells all about the antics of the ton. Amelia is able to somewhat repair the damage in the relationship with her friend Prue and move on with Malcolm. But telling you anymore would be giving away the best of this story.
Having read Ms. Ramsey’s first book Heiress without a Cause, I couldn’t wait for Scotsman Prefer Blondes to come out. I thoroughly enjoyed the first and was not disappointed by the second. Is it okay to say that I enjoyed this charming book more so than the first? I loved the characters and the way she weaves the magic of strong women and the friendships of those women into her books.
I think that every true romantic will enjoy Scotsman Prefer Blondes and know that no matter how old you are there is still someone out there for everyone. Sometimes you just have to wait longer than others.
Reviewed By~Robin
Review Copy Provided By~ ARC from Netgalley
I just loved the second book in Ms. Ramsey’s Muses of Mayfair Series. In this lovely story, Scotsman Prefer Blondes, we find Amelia falling in love. This time the story takes us out of England and into Scotland where dreams can come true in those musty old castles.
Malcolm meets Prue and takes her to dinner only to find that he is drawn to her friend Amelia. Amelia seeing that Prue is really scared and needs help decides to meddle in her affairs only to find herself compromised by kissing Malcolm and being forced to marry him. Secretly Prue is thankful but is also, mad that Amelia once again meddled in her friends affairs only to cause problems. Prue thought this to be her only way to escape her mother.
As we move on in the story I couldn’t help but fall in love with Malcolm and Amelia. Where they find that sexually they are quite compatible there are always those secrets that seem to throw a wrench into every beginning of a good relationship.
Moving to London to take his place in Parliament in hopes of helping his clan Malcolm is faced with Amelia’s past. That of a writer, in disguise, yet not just any writer but one that dared to wrote a book that tells all about the antics of the ton. Amelia is able to somewhat repair the damage in the relationship with her friend Prue and move on with Malcolm. But telling you anymore would be giving away the best of this story.
Having read Ms. Ramsey’s first book Heiress without a Cause, I couldn’t wait for Scotsman Prefer Blondes to come out. I thoroughly enjoyed the first and was not disappointed by the second. Is it okay to say that I enjoyed this charming book more so than the first? I loved the characters and the way she weaves the magic of strong women and the friendships of those women into her books.
I think that every true romantic will enjoy Scotsman Prefer Blondes and know that no matter how old you are there is still someone out there for everyone. Sometimes you just have to wait longer than others.
February 17, 2017
Engaging writing, and what was good was quite good, but I had to skim through some of the hero/heroine conflict/sexual tension scenes that read as abusive behavior to me, and thus I was unsurprised when the hero stepped fully into that abusive behavior when it suited him more than the sexytimes. I get that Ramsey is trying to play with the power dynamic between the two of them, that what is turning them both on (what is meant to be turning the reader on) is the power shift, that she is doing her damnedest to write these two as equals, but when one member of the relationship can have the other declared insane and sent to an asylum, can legally destroy the other's life work, can hold the other prisoner/hostage by means of finance and the law, well. And then when you have the hero actually threaten those things, to acknowledge that he has that power and can use it at any time and she makes him want to hurt her, well well. That's not a power play to me; that's abuse of power. She can't play, because she has no choice.
Her writing is otherwise snappy, and I do love the heroine's relationships with her female friends having depth and impact (and repercussions), but this hero/heroine dynamic (which book one in the series hinted at, too) is emphatically Not For Me. Ramsey is competent enough to make me think that she knows what she's doing, that she is actually striving for this dynamic (as opposed to the alpha Rapey McRaperson heroes in days of yore), that she is trying to play with it, but I cannot let go of real world (ha) implications enough to appreciate this fantasy dynamic. A million dukes existing at the same time? Blatant violation of the ton? Sure, whatever. I just can't get into using the legal dominance of a husband over his wife both as a plot point and as a driver of sexytimes and not think the hero's a total dickbag by the end of it all.
Her writing is otherwise snappy, and I do love the heroine's relationships with her female friends having depth and impact (and repercussions), but this hero/heroine dynamic (which book one in the series hinted at, too) is emphatically Not For Me. Ramsey is competent enough to make me think that she knows what she's doing, that she is actually striving for this dynamic (as opposed to the alpha Rapey McRaperson heroes in days of yore), that she is trying to play with it, but I cannot let go of real world (ha) implications enough to appreciate this fantasy dynamic. A million dukes existing at the same time? Blatant violation of the ton? Sure, whatever. I just can't get into using the legal dominance of a husband over his wife both as a plot point and as a driver of sexytimes and not think the hero's a total dickbag by the end of it all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2013
Scotsmen Prefer Blondes (2nd in the Muses of Mayfair series) by Sara Ramsey
"The next morning, Amelia slashed through another paragraph of drivel. The story, which was so promising when she worked on it in London, had come completely undone in Scotland. Perhaps that was the inevitable consequence of living a Gothic romance instead of writing it."
Lady Amelia Staunton secretly writes scandalous gothic romances about the ton. She doesn't want to marry as she's sure a husband would make her give up her writing. But she is forced into marriage when she is caught kissing Malcolm, an incredibly handsome, Highland Laird, who seeks a proper English wife to host parties for him in London to benefit his political pursuits. As the lines from the book, which are posted at the top of the review, hint, Amelia soon finds herself living a gothic romance rather than writing one.
This passionate, sensual Regency Romance, Scotsmen Prefer Blondes, is a fun read. I highly recommend it.
"The next morning, Amelia slashed through another paragraph of drivel. The story, which was so promising when she worked on it in London, had come completely undone in Scotland. Perhaps that was the inevitable consequence of living a Gothic romance instead of writing it."
Lady Amelia Staunton secretly writes scandalous gothic romances about the ton. She doesn't want to marry as she's sure a husband would make her give up her writing. But she is forced into marriage when she is caught kissing Malcolm, an incredibly handsome, Highland Laird, who seeks a proper English wife to host parties for him in London to benefit his political pursuits. As the lines from the book, which are posted at the top of the review, hint, Amelia soon finds herself living a gothic romance rather than writing one.
This passionate, sensual Regency Romance, Scotsmen Prefer Blondes, is a fun read. I highly recommend it.
January 23, 2015
The second in the Muses of Mayfair series, I was less inclined to speed read but more upset about the characters than the first book. But perhaps that's a good thing, in that the characters bothered me so much that I was somewhat invested in the book. I get that the situation is supposed to be fantastic, not realistic, but the book just made me thank the heavens (over and over again) that I'm not a woman during this time and place or else I would have been able to do nothing but twiddle my thumbs in hope of a good husband. No thanks.
didn-t-finish
April 29, 2015While there were definitely problems, I was still forging on in the happy glow of finding a kindle freebie that I could read. Then the plot took a turn. The main characters- particularly the heroine- had to act like complete morons and/or douchbags. Add on top of that the author being a serial repeater (every piece of the plot has to be repeated at lest three times) and any motivation to read this book has been lost.
June 8, 2013
I wish there had been a little more... resistance, I suppose.. from the heroine when it came to the seduction, but any annoyance I felt by that was made up for in the end with a beautifully groveling hero.
4/5 Stars
4/5 Stars
June 4, 2020
This one had a couple of genuine moments where it looked like things might not work out. Always a surprise in this genre.
3 1/2 because the heroine is supremely unpleasant and other than the fact that Scotsmen prefer blondes there's no indication of why he is attracted to her.
3 1/2 because the heroine is supremely unpleasant and other than the fact that Scotsmen prefer blondes there's no indication of why he is attracted to her.
July 5, 2013
Prudence was the best character.
August 23, 2021
2.5/5 stars
Synopsis
Amelia is a lady by day but a secret author by night. If word were to ever get out the she is the author of a very popular book, there were be a scandal to rival all scandals.
Malcolm is looking for a political wife, someone who is obedient, and has no scandal attached to their name. He is lusting after Amelia, but she isn't the political wife that will help him save his clan.
----
I had a hard time reviewing this book because I enjoyed some parts of it, however, I was also very bored during other parts of it. I had a hard time relating with either main character as I found that the length of the book did not support the storyline, making the characters skip over relationship milestones, making them often petty and childish toward each other.
However, I enjoyed Malcolm's attempts of gaining Amelia's affection. My favourite part of the story.
----
"It's not about money. Scots lairds steal from each other for revenge, to send a message, or even to entertain themselves."
"Which of these noble goals are we pursuing tonight?" she asked
"Revenge, of course. And a bit of entertainment."
"Revenge for what?"
"Someone spoke ill of you. And I'll have him know I don't allow such talk about my wife."
She frowned. "Who could have spoken ill of me? I haven't met any of your neighbours."
He turned off the road onto a smaller, rutted track. "You have. Our good friend Ferguson insists that you're a harpy. If he weren't a duke, perhaps I'd murdered him for it. Stealing his sheep with have too suffice."
Amelia choked back her laugh and lowered her voice. "If I'd known we were stealing from Ferguson, I wouldn't have even bothered with Dinner. We could have gone at once"
Synopsis
Amelia is a lady by day but a secret author by night. If word were to ever get out the she is the author of a very popular book, there were be a scandal to rival all scandals.
Malcolm is looking for a political wife, someone who is obedient, and has no scandal attached to their name. He is lusting after Amelia, but she isn't the political wife that will help him save his clan.
----
I had a hard time reviewing this book because I enjoyed some parts of it, however, I was also very bored during other parts of it. I had a hard time relating with either main character as I found that the length of the book did not support the storyline, making the characters skip over relationship milestones, making them often petty and childish toward each other.
However, I enjoyed Malcolm's attempts of gaining Amelia's affection. My favourite part of the story.
----
"It's not about money. Scots lairds steal from each other for revenge, to send a message, or even to entertain themselves."
"Which of these noble goals are we pursuing tonight?" she asked
"Revenge, of course. And a bit of entertainment."
"Revenge for what?"
"Someone spoke ill of you. And I'll have him know I don't allow such talk about my wife."
She frowned. "Who could have spoken ill of me? I haven't met any of your neighbours."
He turned off the road onto a smaller, rutted track. "You have. Our good friend Ferguson insists that you're a harpy. If he weren't a duke, perhaps I'd murdered him for it. Stealing his sheep with have too suffice."
Amelia choked back her laugh and lowered her voice. "If I'd known we were stealing from Ferguson, I wouldn't have even bothered with Dinner. We could have gone at once"
July 19, 2022
Irresistibly better
Thankfully this one lives up to what a sequel should be. I practically devoured this one, taking any and all opportunities to listen to this whenever I could. Although I have to admit, the heroine, Amelia, was not my favorite character from the first book. She also continued to be questionable in this one, with her role initially being a companion to her friend, Prudence, in meeting her supposedly betrothed--as well as convincing her that marrying someone she did not know was a bad idea. However, as soon as sparks flew between her and the hero, Malcolm, they got what they intended to happen, except that instead of Prudence marrying the ambitious earl, she ended up being the bride. A very complicated friendship, if you ask me, but I love that the author wrote it so that it won't look and sound awkward as it should be. And because their attraction towards each other was so palpable, I wanted to read as many chapters as possible just to find out how things would fare between them. And those steamy scenes, as always, despite the euphemisms, can still take your breath away.
As far as Emma Powell's narration goes, I can get used to her voice and accent. The advantage is that I am now familiar with all the series' major characters, so the confusion is now out of the way of my reading. I may still be halfway through the series, but this couple is going to be a favorite by far. And to find out if this realization would stick, I read the third one right away! Let's see if this series gets better!
Thankfully this one lives up to what a sequel should be. I practically devoured this one, taking any and all opportunities to listen to this whenever I could. Although I have to admit, the heroine, Amelia, was not my favorite character from the first book. She also continued to be questionable in this one, with her role initially being a companion to her friend, Prudence, in meeting her supposedly betrothed--as well as convincing her that marrying someone she did not know was a bad idea. However, as soon as sparks flew between her and the hero, Malcolm, they got what they intended to happen, except that instead of Prudence marrying the ambitious earl, she ended up being the bride. A very complicated friendship, if you ask me, but I love that the author wrote it so that it won't look and sound awkward as it should be. And because their attraction towards each other was so palpable, I wanted to read as many chapters as possible just to find out how things would fare between them. And those steamy scenes, as always, despite the euphemisms, can still take your breath away.
As far as Emma Powell's narration goes, I can get used to her voice and accent. The advantage is that I am now familiar with all the series' major characters, so the confusion is now out of the way of my reading. I may still be halfway through the series, but this couple is going to be a favorite by far. And to find out if this realization would stick, I read the third one right away! Let's see if this series gets better!
July 10, 2017
Ugh.
I thought this one had some potential for sparks between these two, and chemistry. But ultimately I hated the hero and was irritated to the very end. He was such an ass, especially to her, and that never changed. I never saw redemption or groveling or change, not even by the end. I didn't have much feelings towards her one way or the other, but I loathed him.
Did I hate every single word/moment of this book? No. I highlighted some parts that I liked. But as the book went on and he hadn't changed in any way, my projected rating went from my original "okay--3 stars" to "meh--2 stars" to my final decision of marking this as a 1 star read for me. I just can't get past how horrible he was -- little things that just added up -- and NEVER changed. I can deal with an asshole hero (to a degree) if he changes, if he grows, if he grovels like his fucking life depends on it (because it should). But I didn't get any of that here. And honestly, I skimmed the last 15%, but I assure you, I didn't skim past his groveling. It simply was. not. there.
Will I try another from Sara? Probably. I have book 1 on my Kindle (also a freebie from years ago). But I'm in no rush. None at all.
If you wish to look at some quotes/thoughts I highlighted, please check out my Twitter feed
I thought this one had some potential for sparks between these two, and chemistry. But ultimately I hated the hero and was irritated to the very end. He was such an ass, especially to her, and that never changed. I never saw redemption or groveling or change, not even by the end. I didn't have much feelings towards her one way or the other, but I loathed him.
Did I hate every single word/moment of this book? No. I highlighted some parts that I liked. But as the book went on and he hadn't changed in any way, my projected rating went from my original "okay--3 stars" to "meh--2 stars" to my final decision of marking this as a 1 star read for me. I just can't get past how horrible he was -- little things that just added up -- and NEVER changed. I can deal with an asshole hero (to a degree) if he changes, if he grows, if he grovels like his fucking life depends on it (because it should). But I didn't get any of that here. And honestly, I skimmed the last 15%, but I assure you, I didn't skim past his groveling. It simply was. not. there.
Will I try another from Sara? Probably. I have book 1 on my Kindle (also a freebie from years ago). But I'm in no rush. None at all.
If you wish to look at some quotes/thoughts I highlighted, please check out my Twitter feed
March 5, 2023
Out of the four books in the series, the last is still my favourite for obvious reasons of forbidden love and cursed ancient relics. However, book two (yes, I read them all out of order) sparked my interest naturally because it touched on the similar forbidden themes shown in the final book and avoided in books 1 and 3.
The story is about Lady Amelia Staunton, a passionate writer of Gothic romances (based on real people she knows) who is determined to rescue her friend from an unwanted marriage. However, her plans take an unexpected turn, and she ends up marrying the powerful autocrat Malcolm MacCabe, instead (not predictable at all).
Weston's writing style is captivating, with vivid descriptions of the Scottish countryside and well-crafted characters that draw readers into the story. The chemistry between Amelia and Malcolm is electric, and their relationship is a rollercoaster of emotions that kept me reading till the very end.
The story is about Lady Amelia Staunton, a passionate writer of Gothic romances (based on real people she knows) who is determined to rescue her friend from an unwanted marriage. However, her plans take an unexpected turn, and she ends up marrying the powerful autocrat Malcolm MacCabe, instead (not predictable at all).
Weston's writing style is captivating, with vivid descriptions of the Scottish countryside and well-crafted characters that draw readers into the story. The chemistry between Amelia and Malcolm is electric, and their relationship is a rollercoaster of emotions that kept me reading till the very end.
February 1, 2022
🎧AUDIO REVIEW🎧
So I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this because I was still mad at Amelia from the first book. And she really didn't do herself any favors to start off. She basically stole the man that her friend was counting on a marriage proposal from, and she doesn't even want to get married! Malcom doesn't seem all that bad at first..... but there was a point when he turned into a total jerk and I was not happy with him..... brought a couple tears to my eyes! All in all I rather enjoyed the story. I really like how the ending came about. And I am quite eager to listen to the next one!
Story 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍😍
Angst 💔💔💔
Narration 👏👏👏👏
So I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this because I was still mad at Amelia from the first book. And she really didn't do herself any favors to start off. She basically stole the man that her friend was counting on a marriage proposal from, and she doesn't even want to get married! Malcom doesn't seem all that bad at first..... but there was a point when he turned into a total jerk and I was not happy with him..... brought a couple tears to my eyes! All in all I rather enjoyed the story. I really like how the ending came about. And I am quite eager to listen to the next one!
Story 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍😍
Angst 💔💔💔
Narration 👏👏👏👏
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews