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Merry Men #1
Love of My Life
The fabled land of India is alluring...mysterious...and precisely where Miss Cassandra Renwick wants to be, after an unmannerly lord makes her the laughingstock of London. All the men at the Governor-General's ball in Calcutta want to dance with such a beauty, but she is attracted to only one: Julian Ritchie, the son of an adventurous Englishman and an Indian woman of distinguished family. Her dear mama warns her away from him, but Cassandra will not listen.
And Julian Ritchie will not stay away. Though he and Cassandra may face social censure, he is determined to claim her for his own. They belong together...and Julian is head over heels in love.
And Julian Ritchie will not stay away. Though he and Cassandra may face social censure, he is determined to claim her for his own. They belong together...and Julian is head over heels in love.
220 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 7, 2005
376 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
About the author
Meredith Bond
73 books204 followersMeredith Bond's books straddle that beautiful line between historical romance and fantasy. An award-winning author, she writes fun traditional Regency romances, medieval Arthurian romances, and Regency romances with a touch of magic. Known for her characters “who slip readily into one’s heart,” Meredith loves to take her readers on a journey they won't soon forget. She is currently living in Europe enjoying the Bohemian life. I write a blog on writing and self-publishing that is published every Sunday at www.meredithbond.com/blog/posts
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 19, 2019
An Exotic Heir (Merry Men Quartet Book 1)
This is a clean romance and a really interesting read. The Calcutta setting is refreshing. The author gives us a hero who grapples with his mixed race in a way that is vulnerable and realistic. The heroine, too, encounters her own personal difficulties as a woman who wants to be more than just a prize with a generous dowry.
The way in which the author handles the theme of revenge provides some interesting twists. For the most part, I enjoyed this couple very much. They experience their own levels of emotional difficulty and manage to help each other out, even as they struggle to find their HEA together.
This cover needs updating. Why does it have a white male on it when this character is clearly much darker based on the author's description of him? It is his Eurasian coloring that is one of the main focuses of this book and one of his biggest challenges, and yet to look at him on this cover, there is no evidence of it. I would very much like to have seen this racial blending of his features.
Note: I increased my rating on this story to 4 stars since the author updated the cover to look more like the hero. Much appreciated, Ms. Bond.
This is a clean romance and a really interesting read. The Calcutta setting is refreshing. The author gives us a hero who grapples with his mixed race in a way that is vulnerable and realistic. The heroine, too, encounters her own personal difficulties as a woman who wants to be more than just a prize with a generous dowry.
The way in which the author handles the theme of revenge provides some interesting twists. For the most part, I enjoyed this couple very much. They experience their own levels of emotional difficulty and manage to help each other out, even as they struggle to find their HEA together.
This cover needs updating. Why does it have a white male on it when this character is clearly much darker based on the author's description of him? It is his Eurasian coloring that is one of the main focuses of this book and one of his biggest challenges, and yet to look at him on this cover, there is no evidence of it. I would very much like to have seen this racial blending of his features.
Note: I increased my rating on this story to 4 stars since the author updated the cover to look more like the hero. Much appreciated, Ms. Bond.
November 10, 2014
This is a story about the norms and dictates of upper English society and how true love can and will break those barriers!
Cassandra Renwick is from a moderately well-statured English family living in Calcutta, India, where her father has a position of prominence. She was sent to London for a “Season” to “come out” with her cousin, but was deeply humiliated by a member of the Ton, Lord Felbridge, who thought she wasn’t deserving of him. Cassandra flees back to Calcutta in shame. This begins Cassandra’s journey into negative feelings for all men.
At Cassandra’ s welcome home party, she meets one of her father’s employees, Julian Ritchie. Julian has an English titled father (who abandoned him and his mother) and an Indian mother who raised him alone with pride and honor. These two immediately become enamored with each other, but Cassandra’s mother will have none of that!
Julian has worked for Mr. Renwick for years and is an exceptional employee. He has repeatedly been looked over for promotions because it is well-known that Mr. Renwick does not think Indians are educated, logical or worth more than servitude. Julian dearly resents this and vows revenge on the family.
The adventures Julian and Cassandra sneak away and share increase their bond, but the secrecy continues to eat at their happiness. Also, Julian has confided in an English friend about his true intentions.
When Cassandra finds out Julian’s deception, she runs back into London society and vows revenge on Julian. In the meantime, Julian has family issues and pronouncements.
The journey to these two reconnecting and working out both their differences and preconceived notions takes several interesting turns. The outcome, although expected, is all the sweeter because of the awakening of those around them. This is a lovely, sweet story.
-Reviewed by Cynthia
Cassandra Renwick is from a moderately well-statured English family living in Calcutta, India, where her father has a position of prominence. She was sent to London for a “Season” to “come out” with her cousin, but was deeply humiliated by a member of the Ton, Lord Felbridge, who thought she wasn’t deserving of him. Cassandra flees back to Calcutta in shame. This begins Cassandra’s journey into negative feelings for all men.
At Cassandra’ s welcome home party, she meets one of her father’s employees, Julian Ritchie. Julian has an English titled father (who abandoned him and his mother) and an Indian mother who raised him alone with pride and honor. These two immediately become enamored with each other, but Cassandra’s mother will have none of that!
Julian has worked for Mr. Renwick for years and is an exceptional employee. He has repeatedly been looked over for promotions because it is well-known that Mr. Renwick does not think Indians are educated, logical or worth more than servitude. Julian dearly resents this and vows revenge on the family.
The adventures Julian and Cassandra sneak away and share increase their bond, but the secrecy continues to eat at their happiness. Also, Julian has confided in an English friend about his true intentions.
When Cassandra finds out Julian’s deception, she runs back into London society and vows revenge on Julian. In the meantime, Julian has family issues and pronouncements.
The journey to these two reconnecting and working out both their differences and preconceived notions takes several interesting turns. The outcome, although expected, is all the sweeter because of the awakening of those around them. This is a lovely, sweet story.
-Reviewed by Cynthia
November 10, 2018
An Exotic Heir by Meredith Bond is the first in the Merry Men Quartet series. While I was interested in this book first because of the romance, the overall highlights from this book come from the messages that are still true today. This book pretty much had me interested from the beginning. When I usually read a historical book it is generally centrally focused in England. The first part of this book was focused in India and I truly loved the imagery.
I haven’t read very many books featuring Indian culture and really loved it. I adored how instead of Cassandra wanted to learn more and experience more about the culture then stick to her own culture. Cassandra was one of my favorite parts of this book. She is such a strong and brave character. In the first part of the story, the discrimination of the Indian culture is prevalent among many of the English characters. Cassandra is one of the only people that consistently comment how wrong it is and how a person’s differences do not make them any less of a person. While Cassandra did annoy me slightly at different times in the book overall she was a strong character with very real flaws. Even when she was angry at Julian she didn’t allow anyone to put him down because of who he is or where he came from.
While it is a bit tamer of a romance then I am used to the beautiful imagery and messages throughout the book really allowed me to enjoy it. Some of my favorite parts in this book were when Cassandra was in India. I loved when she went to the bazaar and the temple. I always love to learn about new cultures so it was refreshing to be able to while reading this book. Not only does this book cover discrimination but also addresses staying true to who you are.
*I received a free copy of the book for review from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
I haven’t read very many books featuring Indian culture and really loved it. I adored how instead of Cassandra wanted to learn more and experience more about the culture then stick to her own culture. Cassandra was one of my favorite parts of this book. She is such a strong and brave character. In the first part of the story, the discrimination of the Indian culture is prevalent among many of the English characters. Cassandra is one of the only people that consistently comment how wrong it is and how a person’s differences do not make them any less of a person. While Cassandra did annoy me slightly at different times in the book overall she was a strong character with very real flaws. Even when she was angry at Julian she didn’t allow anyone to put him down because of who he is or where he came from.
While it is a bit tamer of a romance then I am used to the beautiful imagery and messages throughout the book really allowed me to enjoy it. Some of my favorite parts in this book were when Cassandra was in India. I loved when she went to the bazaar and the temple. I always love to learn about new cultures so it was refreshing to be able to while reading this book. Not only does this book cover discrimination but also addresses staying true to who you are.
*I received a free copy of the book for review from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
October 14, 2018
I received this book from For Voracious Readers only for an honest review.
I love historical romances. I started reading them back in eighth grade with my best friend, Julie. We would sleep over at each other's houses and spend late nights reading, giggling over the salacious parts and passing books between us. Flea markets were scrounged for these novels and Johanna Lindsey became a household name.
Fast forward to now...I was excited to be offered this free book. It's a clean historical romance, really very little more than kissing, so the author must focus on the plot to show the character's developing feelings to each other. I liked that; sometimes the steamy scenes can take away from the plot advancement.
I liked the characters and the premise as well. Cassandra is young and realistic and I like that she doesn't let the prejudices of those around her affect her burgeoning relationship with Julian. (And yes, this is fiction, so I know how society really would have viewed this relationship; I choose to enjoy the fiction.)
So, if you want a clean historical with a fast-moving plot, some humor, and likeable characters, I suggest An Exotic Heir. I'm planning on reading the next book in the series, although the books do stand alone. Yes, I liked this author that much!
I love historical romances. I started reading them back in eighth grade with my best friend, Julie. We would sleep over at each other's houses and spend late nights reading, giggling over the salacious parts and passing books between us. Flea markets were scrounged for these novels and Johanna Lindsey became a household name.
Fast forward to now...I was excited to be offered this free book. It's a clean historical romance, really very little more than kissing, so the author must focus on the plot to show the character's developing feelings to each other. I liked that; sometimes the steamy scenes can take away from the plot advancement.
I liked the characters and the premise as well. Cassandra is young and realistic and I like that she doesn't let the prejudices of those around her affect her burgeoning relationship with Julian. (And yes, this is fiction, so I know how society really would have viewed this relationship; I choose to enjoy the fiction.)
So, if you want a clean historical with a fast-moving plot, some humor, and likeable characters, I suggest An Exotic Heir. I'm planning on reading the next book in the series, although the books do stand alone. Yes, I liked this author that much!
July 12, 2018
Prejudice revenge love and honesty
Cassandra over hearing 2 different conversations in different countries tries and different times. But even so the message was the same. She was not good enough to marry on her own merits but because of her dowary fathers position these 2 men would marry her. When in Calcutta she found she was wanting to help people like herself who had been wronged. Juliane was treated with prejudice and she tried to help. She fell in love but found out he had deceived her. What will happen when Cassandra decided to go back to London. Will revenge have it's just reward will it be sweet.
Cassandra over hearing 2 different conversations in different countries tries and different times. But even so the message was the same. She was not good enough to marry on her own merits but because of her dowary fathers position these 2 men would marry her. When in Calcutta she found she was wanting to help people like herself who had been wronged. Juliane was treated with prejudice and she tried to help. She fell in love but found out he had deceived her. What will happen when Cassandra decided to go back to London. Will revenge have it's just reward will it be sweet.
December 11, 2018
I received a review copy of this book from the author through Voracious Readers.
I was excited to read this book. Historical romance is my favourite genre. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author created engaging and loveable characters. I particularly liked how strong, and yet vulnerable, Cassie and Julian were, each in their own way. The plot moved well and I enjoyed the touches of humour the author included. Personally I would have preferred a bit more romantic drama, but the story was still intriguing and entertaining to read. This book is a very clean, charming, historical romance and very enjoyable to read. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I was excited to read this book. Historical romance is my favourite genre. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author created engaging and loveable characters. I particularly liked how strong, and yet vulnerable, Cassie and Julian were, each in their own way. The plot moved well and I enjoyed the touches of humour the author included. Personally I would have preferred a bit more romantic drama, but the story was still intriguing and entertaining to read. This book is a very clean, charming, historical romance and very enjoyable to read. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
June 20, 2020
This was an okay book. The story of a young English girl who travels to India and meets a man whose father was an Earl and mother a Bengali lady. It talks about the racism in society at the time. Julian is shunned by the British society in India and England until the heroine manages to get him acceptance by Prinny. Cassandra herself is an outsider yet manages to make herself successful as she is a beauty. It was well written but I enjoyed reading about julian's friends more than the two main characters.
January 1, 2018
An Exotic Heir also known as Love Of My Life by Meredith Bond is a fabulous historical romance. Ms. Bond has provided us with a smooth read with her well-written book. Cassandra and Julian's story has plenty of twists and turns, drama, humor and spice. I enjoyed reading An Exotic Heir and look forward to reading more from Meredith Bond soon. An Exotic Heir is book 1 of the Merry Men Quartet Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
February 20, 2018
An exotic heir
I enjoyed the story and the characters. It flows well and i keeps you engage. I gave the book a 3.5 because it is need of editing. The Aunt refers to the heroine as Cousin even though she is her niece. Maybe this is a cultural thing that i am not aware of. I found it confusing though. There are also several other spelling errors (ie. Our instead of your)
All in all it was a good story
I enjoyed the story and the characters. It flows well and i keeps you engage. I gave the book a 3.5 because it is need of editing. The Aunt refers to the heroine as Cousin even though she is her niece. Maybe this is a cultural thing that i am not aware of. I found it confusing though. There are also several other spelling errors (ie. Our instead of your)
All in all it was a good story
December 25, 2023
I’m not usually a romance reader but I picked up this book after meeting the author at a local book fair. I enjoyed the description of life in Calcutta and how the characters, particularly Cassandra’s mother, navigated high society. The plot was very straightforward, expected given the length, and the spark between characters felt a bit forced. But, overall, it was a nice, light read and one of the few exploring the cross-cultural tensions of 19th century Britain.
February 15, 2018
Quick, amusing, stand-alone read. What's a body to do when one is shunned in England and India both?
Would have given a 5 if plot more full-bodied. Easy simple read. Characters need more depth-fleshing out. Comparable to thin Regency Harlequin books, which I always enjoy.
Would have given a 5 if plot more full-bodied. Easy simple read. Characters need more depth-fleshing out. Comparable to thin Regency Harlequin books, which I always enjoy.
July 8, 2024
A romantic tale overcoming racism, misunderstanding, betrayal. Her heart is still open for love even when she has been betrayed twice or thrice. His heart opened up when she met her and abandoned his quest for vengeance. Short but sweet story ending in HEA.
March 10, 2018
It is a great book to read
April 4, 2018
It was an ok read. I liked the friendship aspect but didn't love some plot design. I'll still read the rest.
April 19, 2018
I appreciate the fact that the book encourages one to rise above every form of discrimination, aside that it was just an okay read.
November 3, 2018
To fit in
A lighthearted and easy to read tale about being ignored in social circles. Some things felt anachronistic. But will keep you entertained for awhile.
A lighthearted and easy to read tale about being ignored in social circles. Some things felt anachronistic. But will keep you entertained for awhile.
February 4, 2022
Loved comparisons between England & India
June 28, 2021
This was originally titled "Love of My Life." It occurred
in London, Calcutta, and London again in 1810. I really
wanted to like this book but some elements impeded a
better story.
The focal point of this story involved a bright, attractive
"Eurasian" man, Julian with an Indian mother & English
father. English ex-patriots in Calcutta gave Julian the
"cut direct" and spoke rudely to him and about him.
Cassandra had an abbreviated 1st season due to her naivete.
She didn't realize ton marriages occurred for $, property &
to cement alliances. She overheard an insensitive man who
called her a "nobody" which crushed her spirits. But chose
not to discuss this w/ her aunt. At x's she held men to a
higher standard than herself. Cassie impulsively decided to
join her parents in Calcutta. Cassie sought revenge on 2 men.
Non-perfect Cassie held secrets.
Cassie & Julian clicked on all levels from the start. My fav.
scene: Cassie told a suitor she considered Julian "ten times
the man" he (the suitor) was.
in London, Calcutta, and London again in 1810. I really
wanted to like this book but some elements impeded a
better story.
The focal point of this story involved a bright, attractive
"Eurasian" man, Julian with an Indian mother & English
father. English ex-patriots in Calcutta gave Julian the
"cut direct" and spoke rudely to him and about him.
Cassandra had an abbreviated 1st season due to her naivete.
She didn't realize ton marriages occurred for $, property &
to cement alliances. She overheard an insensitive man who
called her a "nobody" which crushed her spirits. But chose
not to discuss this w/ her aunt. At x's she held men to a
higher standard than herself. Cassie impulsively decided to
join her parents in Calcutta. Cassie sought revenge on 2 men.
Non-perfect Cassie held secrets.
Cassie & Julian clicked on all levels from the start. My fav.
scene: Cassie told a suitor she considered Julian "ten times
the man" he (the suitor) was.
April 7, 2010
Unusual variation on a theme, very nice!
July 19, 2020
This was a cute story. It didn’t feel very realistic in a historical sense. There was a bit too much travel between continents and the heroine seemed to be able to get away with a lot.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews