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Breaking the Rules of the Beau Monde #3
For a Scandalous Wager
She started as a pebble in his shoe, but quickly became his rock.
- GenresHistorical Romance
Unknown Binding
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31 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Gilmore
16 books105 followers
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Writing character driven romance, because when you fall in love, the world falls away
You can find me on my website ShannonGilmoreAuthor.com
Writing character driven romance, because when you fall in love, the world falls away
I’m Shannon Gilmore, a multi-award-winning author of historical romance. My Ruined Rakes series won the Silver Quill® award and was nominated for the Golden Heart® from Romance Writers of America. I fell in love with historical romance reading Johanna Lindsey, Judith McNaught, and Julie Garwood—and I like to think it even helped me find my husband. When I’m not creating stories of heroes with soft hearts, I enjoy crafting, quilting, and playing video games. Most of all, I love sharing my stories with readers like you—you make writing a joy!
Looking for a new series? Come discover Breaking the Rules of the Beau Monde filled with steamy romance and charming stories that will make you laugh and cry. Follow your favorite heroes and heroines through storms, UNCHAPERONED carriage rides, WICKED wagers, and STUBBORN women who demand to be heard. Some rules are meant to be broken when love is on the line.
You can find me on my website ShannonGilmoreAuthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 17, 2024
Thanks to Wolf Publishing for an ARC of this book. Shannon Gilmore is a relatively new author to their family, and this is the first book of hers I’ve read. I’m impressed. It’s a poetically-written and cleverly-told story with dynamic dialogue and engaging characters. That’s why I’ve included so many quotes.
It’s ironic that it’s so similar trope-wise to the last book I read—which I also enjoyed and which, at times, made me mix up characters. But truly, this one was very different and I loved Evelyn Markham and Dalton Rochester in a way I don’t always love characters. Evelyn is the epitome of a strong, independent woman born in the wrong time. Rochester is plagued by a mistake he made in the past, but deep down, he’s a decent guy who loves Evelyn and strives to protect her from himself. She doesn’t understand until much later that her father is the reason Rochester feels he can never be with the woman he loves.
I found myself delighted by Evelyn’s honesty and willingness to lay her heart on the line and fight for Rochester, knowing he loved her and only wanted to save her from her father’s disapproval. The two of them were truly soulmates, and despite many, many obstacles, it was absolutely necessary that they find happiness together. They never waivered in their love and commitment to one another, even when it seemed like it could be hopeless. And their banter was a consistent quality of their communications. For example, when Evelyn complains, “I’m bothered because you keep dashing my best-laid plans,” Rochester responds with, “If those are the best, I hate to see the worst.” He dubs her with the nickname Goose because of her silly notions, but he says it with love, and she grows to love it. Then, there was this statement from Rochester that made me chuckle (reminding me of the old joke, “If you fall down and break a leg, don’t come running to me.”) “Don’t you dare take another step, Evelyn Markham. I swear to God, if you fall and die, I’ll never speak to you again.”
They tease each other so much, at one point Evelyn laments, "I never know when you’re teasing.” Rochester’s response is, “Assume I’m always teasing, and we’ll avoid much trouble.” Truthfully, this is probably part of Rochester’s efforts to keep Evelyn at a distance because he doesn’t want to face his feelings for her. Nevertheless, he keeps a shilling in his boot (from her) to remind him of her and to symbolize a pebble in his shoe, something that can never be ignored. Of course, this was a strong hint: “The guilt he felt for leaving her with Sullivan died when he saw her sweep up the train of her lavender ball gown and waltz into the arms of the man he now dreamed of maiming.” The thing is, “She’d created a hurricane and set herself on a mission to hurl him into its catastrophic gusts.” Rochester didn’t stand a chance. He waxes poetic while looking at her and her hair, comparing it to “...long tresses in a waterfall of butterscotch brandy.”
Evelyn is not without her own insecurities, and I love this description of a feeling I’m sure all of us have experienced at one point or another: “She nervously gulped half a glass of champagne. Between the heavy sip and the bubbles, it felt like a stone bruising its way into the clenched pit of her stomach.” Apropos of nothing, this statement about one of Evelyn’s best friends, Clover, made me laugh. Clover appeared innocent but, “She could lie herself out of a flour sack in a wheat field.”
The attraction between Rochester and Evelyn is undeniable, and when he finally kisses her, he thinks, “She tasted like euphoria and freedom, redemption, and peace.” For all that they do engage in together, Evelyn wants more. Fearing her father is going to marry her to someone else she doesn’t love, she pleads with Rochester.
“You think you’re doing me a noble service by leaving my maidenhood intact, but I’m not a virgin…You’ve put every other part of yourself inside me, so why not that one?” She pointed to his groin. “I haven’t been a virgin since you kissed me… You think adding that piece of your anatomy to the process will ruin me? Dalton Rochester, you ruined me a long time ago.”
She continued: “Dalton, I want you. I want you to make love to me… I want you to fornicate with me, join me in bed sport, tumble me, collude with me in convivial society, a stitch, a tiff, riding St. George right into amorous congress. All of it.” Obviously, Rochester is a bit taken aback by this, but somehow, he manages to resist her and takes her to her brother’s home. “Goose, your brother won’t let me take one step into that house because when he sees your smile and my face, he’ll know. Memorize my nose as it is now because by tomorrow, it will be broken and bruised, and my spleen may be skewered.”
Rochester was right. When Winn, Evelyn’s brother and one of Rochester’s best friends asks him about how far things went with Evelyn, he has a great response: “Don’t ever ask me again for an accounting of my private affairs of what goes on between me and the woman I love. I don’t care who she is to you. Your concern should be who she is to me.”
Whelp. Evelyn’s father is dead set against the two of them marrying and proceeds to sign an agreement with another man. But Rochester meets an unexpected ally (an old friend of her father) and they share a convoluted discussion filled with various expressions that would be confusing to anyone whose first language is not English. Finally, the man tells Rochester, “Let’s have another ale and see how many more idioms we can sharpen our tongues on.” Ultimately, the man offers to help.
Their HEA is touching, with this conversation that stood out to me. Despite all of the teasing, this was real and vulnerable:
“Please never stop loving me.
“You will never be rid of me, Dalton Rochester.”
“I’m betting my whole life on that, Goose.”
It’s ironic that it’s so similar trope-wise to the last book I read—which I also enjoyed and which, at times, made me mix up characters. But truly, this one was very different and I loved Evelyn Markham and Dalton Rochester in a way I don’t always love characters. Evelyn is the epitome of a strong, independent woman born in the wrong time. Rochester is plagued by a mistake he made in the past, but deep down, he’s a decent guy who loves Evelyn and strives to protect her from himself. She doesn’t understand until much later that her father is the reason Rochester feels he can never be with the woman he loves.
I found myself delighted by Evelyn’s honesty and willingness to lay her heart on the line and fight for Rochester, knowing he loved her and only wanted to save her from her father’s disapproval. The two of them were truly soulmates, and despite many, many obstacles, it was absolutely necessary that they find happiness together. They never waivered in their love and commitment to one another, even when it seemed like it could be hopeless. And their banter was a consistent quality of their communications. For example, when Evelyn complains, “I’m bothered because you keep dashing my best-laid plans,” Rochester responds with, “If those are the best, I hate to see the worst.” He dubs her with the nickname Goose because of her silly notions, but he says it with love, and she grows to love it. Then, there was this statement from Rochester that made me chuckle (reminding me of the old joke, “If you fall down and break a leg, don’t come running to me.”) “Don’t you dare take another step, Evelyn Markham. I swear to God, if you fall and die, I’ll never speak to you again.”
They tease each other so much, at one point Evelyn laments, "I never know when you’re teasing.” Rochester’s response is, “Assume I’m always teasing, and we’ll avoid much trouble.” Truthfully, this is probably part of Rochester’s efforts to keep Evelyn at a distance because he doesn’t want to face his feelings for her. Nevertheless, he keeps a shilling in his boot (from her) to remind him of her and to symbolize a pebble in his shoe, something that can never be ignored. Of course, this was a strong hint: “The guilt he felt for leaving her with Sullivan died when he saw her sweep up the train of her lavender ball gown and waltz into the arms of the man he now dreamed of maiming.” The thing is, “She’d created a hurricane and set herself on a mission to hurl him into its catastrophic gusts.” Rochester didn’t stand a chance. He waxes poetic while looking at her and her hair, comparing it to “...long tresses in a waterfall of butterscotch brandy.”
Evelyn is not without her own insecurities, and I love this description of a feeling I’m sure all of us have experienced at one point or another: “She nervously gulped half a glass of champagne. Between the heavy sip and the bubbles, it felt like a stone bruising its way into the clenched pit of her stomach.” Apropos of nothing, this statement about one of Evelyn’s best friends, Clover, made me laugh. Clover appeared innocent but, “She could lie herself out of a flour sack in a wheat field.”
The attraction between Rochester and Evelyn is undeniable, and when he finally kisses her, he thinks, “She tasted like euphoria and freedom, redemption, and peace.” For all that they do engage in together, Evelyn wants more. Fearing her father is going to marry her to someone else she doesn’t love, she pleads with Rochester.
“You think you’re doing me a noble service by leaving my maidenhood intact, but I’m not a virgin…You’ve put every other part of yourself inside me, so why not that one?” She pointed to his groin. “I haven’t been a virgin since you kissed me… You think adding that piece of your anatomy to the process will ruin me? Dalton Rochester, you ruined me a long time ago.”
She continued: “Dalton, I want you. I want you to make love to me… I want you to fornicate with me, join me in bed sport, tumble me, collude with me in convivial society, a stitch, a tiff, riding St. George right into amorous congress. All of it.” Obviously, Rochester is a bit taken aback by this, but somehow, he manages to resist her and takes her to her brother’s home. “Goose, your brother won’t let me take one step into that house because when he sees your smile and my face, he’ll know. Memorize my nose as it is now because by tomorrow, it will be broken and bruised, and my spleen may be skewered.”
Rochester was right. When Winn, Evelyn’s brother and one of Rochester’s best friends asks him about how far things went with Evelyn, he has a great response: “Don’t ever ask me again for an accounting of my private affairs of what goes on between me and the woman I love. I don’t care who she is to you. Your concern should be who she is to me.”
Whelp. Evelyn’s father is dead set against the two of them marrying and proceeds to sign an agreement with another man. But Rochester meets an unexpected ally (an old friend of her father) and they share a convoluted discussion filled with various expressions that would be confusing to anyone whose first language is not English. Finally, the man tells Rochester, “Let’s have another ale and see how many more idioms we can sharpen our tongues on.” Ultimately, the man offers to help.
Their HEA is touching, with this conversation that stood out to me. Despite all of the teasing, this was real and vulnerable:
“Please never stop loving me.
“You will never be rid of me, Dalton Rochester.”
“I’m betting my whole life on that, Goose.”
September 20, 2024
Evelyn Markham finds herself trapped in an unwanted betrothal, her only hope of escape resting on a daring gamble. To shatter the chains of her engagement without facing ruinous consequences, she must tread a dangerous path. Dalton Rochester, the notorious rogue whose very name sends whispers through the ton, is her brother Wynn's best friend, he is both her salvation and her downfall. From the moment Evelyn first laid eyes on him across a billiard table, she knew that her fate was sealed. The shilling Evelyn once boldly slipped into Dalton's pocket as a token of her favour now serves as a silent reminder of the passion that simmers between them.
Another very well written captivating romance. The pace is good, the characters a delight & the chemistry between Dalton & Evelyn sizzles. I loved their obstacle strewn journey to a HEA & highly recommend it. I loved that it was different, the couple declare their love quite early but it’s their journey from then on that had me captivated, as I was routing for them to find a way to be together & wondered how it would or could be achieved. I loved it & was left with a smile on my face
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Another very well written captivating romance. The pace is good, the characters a delight & the chemistry between Dalton & Evelyn sizzles. I loved their obstacle strewn journey to a HEA & highly recommend it. I loved that it was different, the couple declare their love quite early but it’s their journey from then on that had me captivated, as I was routing for them to find a way to be together & wondered how it would or could be achieved. I loved it & was left with a smile on my face
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
September 9, 2024
This is my second read through and my 3rd book by Shannon and I have to say I keep even though I have already read this book once, I'm still in love with it! I can't get enough of this book.
The dynamics between the two character is undeniable.
The banter, the twists and turns along with the passion and happily ever after is definitely something that is I can't wait to see in the rest of the series.
I received this an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
The dynamics between the two character is undeniable.
The banter, the twists and turns along with the passion and happily ever after is definitely something that is I can't wait to see in the rest of the series.
I received this an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
November 11, 2024
3.5 I liked Dalton and Evelyn together a lot. I do think the book had some modern sensibilities but I didn’t mind them. The reason I didn’t love this book is probably a personal reason as I have been in severe debt before and know how hard and awful it is to get out of it. And this book did show the only way I believe one can successfully get out of it.
June 8, 2024
This was a story well worth reading!
It was quite different in parts to the usual run of the mill ones which have been published of late, so that was quite refreshing.
Dalton and Evelyn made such a splendid couple and I loved their method of wagering which was so unique.
They definitely had their ups and downs while navigating the path to their happy ever after but that made this story very much more interesting and I found lots of enjoyment in this.
It was an entertaining story with Evelyn showing us just how full of life she was. Oh my, the things she got up to!
I have just finished reading an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
It was quite different in parts to the usual run of the mill ones which have been published of late, so that was quite refreshing.
Dalton and Evelyn made such a splendid couple and I loved their method of wagering which was so unique.
They definitely had their ups and downs while navigating the path to their happy ever after but that made this story very much more interesting and I found lots of enjoyment in this.
It was an entertaining story with Evelyn showing us just how full of life she was. Oh my, the things she got up to!
I have just finished reading an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
May 25, 2024
Barbara’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Breaking The Rules of the Beau Monde #1
Publication Date: 6/13/24
Period: Regency London
I always enjoy this author’s works because – well – firstly because she writes a really good story with lively, wonderful characters – but secondly, because she manages to create an interesting, witty, and engrossing story that adheres to the norms of the times. This story was a delightful addition to her oeuvre. With a frazzled and put-upon Dalton Rochester and the determined and delightful Evelyn Markham, you have a match made in …
Evelyn Markham is happily into her third season with nary a bow to pique her interest. The one man who does interest her mostly ignores her, and for the moment she is good with that. She provokes him, asks him to break the rules of the Beau Monde with her, and taunts him, but leaves it at that – for the time being. You see, Dalton Rochester is her brother’s best friend – and her father hates him. Of course, everything changes – for Evelyn at least – when her father sees her brother happily wed and thinks the same thing should happen for her. OOPS! Double OOPS when he starts the betrothal process with a man she’s not met – at least not officially – and definitely doesn’t admire. Nothing wrong with him – just a dull sort of stick-in-the-mud. Her antics to avoid the betrothal – and the gentleman – are lively and entertaining – and – might I say – a tad scandalous.
What is a Lord to do? His best friend’s sister is constantly tormenting him with all manner of things – including scandalous wagers. He resists, but with that scandalous wager and the precious shilling involved, he is hard-pressed to keep her at arm’s length. Resistance, of course, is futile because he is as enamored with her as she is with him. The difference is, he realizes it cannot be and she does not. Her father hates him and he would lose his best friend if he pursued a relationship. It could never happen. Well – we’ve all learned that we should never say never.
I thoroughly enjoyed Evelyn’s antics and all she put Rochester through. Her frustration with him was palpable on every page! How could he keep ignoring her pleas for help? Surely, he had at least a small regard for her as a friend if nothing else. Then there was the plea – HELP – that he didn’t ignore. That plea and the aftermath landed them in a tangled can of worms. Could they get out of it with their reputations intact? Could they truly convince her father to let them marry? Will her father marry her off to his choice for her? Will they elope? What will her brother think?
This was a lovely read and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Series: Breaking The Rules of the Beau Monde #1
Publication Date: 6/13/24
Period: Regency London
I always enjoy this author’s works because – well – firstly because she writes a really good story with lively, wonderful characters – but secondly, because she manages to create an interesting, witty, and engrossing story that adheres to the norms of the times. This story was a delightful addition to her oeuvre. With a frazzled and put-upon Dalton Rochester and the determined and delightful Evelyn Markham, you have a match made in …
Evelyn Markham is happily into her third season with nary a bow to pique her interest. The one man who does interest her mostly ignores her, and for the moment she is good with that. She provokes him, asks him to break the rules of the Beau Monde with her, and taunts him, but leaves it at that – for the time being. You see, Dalton Rochester is her brother’s best friend – and her father hates him. Of course, everything changes – for Evelyn at least – when her father sees her brother happily wed and thinks the same thing should happen for her. OOPS! Double OOPS when he starts the betrothal process with a man she’s not met – at least not officially – and definitely doesn’t admire. Nothing wrong with him – just a dull sort of stick-in-the-mud. Her antics to avoid the betrothal – and the gentleman – are lively and entertaining – and – might I say – a tad scandalous.
What is a Lord to do? His best friend’s sister is constantly tormenting him with all manner of things – including scandalous wagers. He resists, but with that scandalous wager and the precious shilling involved, he is hard-pressed to keep her at arm’s length. Resistance, of course, is futile because he is as enamored with her as she is with him. The difference is, he realizes it cannot be and she does not. Her father hates him and he would lose his best friend if he pursued a relationship. It could never happen. Well – we’ve all learned that we should never say never.
I thoroughly enjoyed Evelyn’s antics and all she put Rochester through. Her frustration with him was palpable on every page! How could he keep ignoring her pleas for help? Surely, he had at least a small regard for her as a friend if nothing else. Then there was the plea – HELP – that he didn’t ignore. That plea and the aftermath landed them in a tangled can of worms. Could they get out of it with their reputations intact? Could they truly convince her father to let them marry? Will her father marry her off to his choice for her? Will they elope? What will her brother think?
This was a lovely read and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
September 26, 2024
Shannon Gilmore has given historical romance readers a love story for the ages in For a Scandalous Wager, her first full-length novel in the Breaking the Rules of the Beau Monde series. Miss Evelyn Markham has had her eye on her older brother's best friend, Dalton Rochester, for some time and seeks his help in causing a bit of scandal when her father demands that she become betrothed to the man of his choosing. As she schemes to get out of her betrothal to a man she does not love, so begins Evelyn and Dalton's whirlwind love story, complete with its ups and downs, twists and turns.
Both main characters are complex and yet drawn with care, having vulnerabilities, fears and flaws that at times threaten to keep these two soulmates apart but which make their hard-won love stronger and their happily ever after at the end that much sweeter. They are endearing and witty, charming and tenacious - and the reader can't help but root for them to work through all the obstacles standing in the way of their happiness.
For a Scandalous Wager is beautifully written, with lovely details that warmed my heart and left me smiling with the turn of the last page. Shannon Gilmore has written a truly engaging romance with a whole lot of heart, and I cannot wait to see what other stories she has yet to tell in this series.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
Both main characters are complex and yet drawn with care, having vulnerabilities, fears and flaws that at times threaten to keep these two soulmates apart but which make their hard-won love stronger and their happily ever after at the end that much sweeter. They are endearing and witty, charming and tenacious - and the reader can't help but root for them to work through all the obstacles standing in the way of their happiness.
For a Scandalous Wager is beautifully written, with lovely details that warmed my heart and left me smiling with the turn of the last page. Shannon Gilmore has written a truly engaging romance with a whole lot of heart, and I cannot wait to see what other stories she has yet to tell in this series.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
October 17, 2024
You met Evelyn and Rochester in Shannon’s “Until Morning” (prequel of this series) when Evelyn’s brother Winn asked Rochester (his best friend) to watch over (spy on) Evelyn during a Christmas country party. Evelyn and her two best friends (Addy and Clover) decide to use the party to break (or bend) the rules of the Beau Monde (hence the name of the series).
This book is escapism at its finest!! Very little angst (LOVED that). This may be a full length novel but for me, it didn’t last long enough! There were moments of frustration (from surrounding circumstances), there were moments of laughter (yes I laughed out loud and giggled) and there were moments of touching backstory truths between Evelyn and Rochester and most certainly moments of pure love and 🔥 HEAT!!
Ms Gilmore built a world of wonderful banter and teasing and lightheartedness! This story is definitely a 5+ Star read and so far this series is a 10 ⭐️ series, can’t wait to read the rest!!
Well done Shannon, well done!! 🔥🔥♥️♥️🌹
This book is escapism at its finest!! Very little angst (LOVED that). This may be a full length novel but for me, it didn’t last long enough! There were moments of frustration (from surrounding circumstances), there were moments of laughter (yes I laughed out loud and giggled) and there were moments of touching backstory truths between Evelyn and Rochester and most certainly moments of pure love and 🔥 HEAT!!
Ms Gilmore built a world of wonderful banter and teasing and lightheartedness! This story is definitely a 5+ Star read and so far this series is a 10 ⭐️ series, can’t wait to read the rest!!
Well done Shannon, well done!! 🔥🔥♥️♥️🌹
May 19, 2024
Evelyn Markham is determined not to marry the man her father has decided she should marry. Dalton Rochester is determined not to act on his feelings for Evelyn since she is the younger sister of his best friend.
Evelyn decides to approach Rochester for help to make sure she does not have to marry the man. All she wants from him is a little help in breaking a few rules but nothing too serious. Rochester does not want anything to do with this scheme especially the breaking of rules part.
Let the fun adventure begin!! I really loved Evelyn and Rochester’s story, it was a lot of fun to read!! The book was very entertaining with all the witty banter between them and the twist and turns it took to get to their happy ending. I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
Evelyn decides to approach Rochester for help to make sure she does not have to marry the man. All she wants from him is a little help in breaking a few rules but nothing too serious. Rochester does not want anything to do with this scheme especially the breaking of rules part.
Let the fun adventure begin!! I really loved Evelyn and Rochester’s story, it was a lot of fun to read!! The book was very entertaining with all the witty banter between them and the twist and turns it took to get to their happy ending. I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
September 28, 2024
Lady Evelyn Markham and Dalton Rochester embark on a tumultuous relationship that started after she offered him a wager as he was playing billiards. As Evelyn is trying to avoid a betrothal with a Baron she did not know and definitely did not want to marry, she relied on Rochester to get her out of multiple situations that would placed in in direct contact with him. As they were finally coming to terms with their undeniable attraction to each other, they also had to come to terms with the fact of her father's unwillingness to accept Rochester as a suitable replacement for the Baron he had chosen for Evelyn. Evelyn has to stand her ground with both her father and Rochester if she is to obtain her HEA.💕🔥🔥
I received an ARC from the author and Bookfunnel and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and Bookfunnel and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2024
Fast-paced, funny and romantic
Dalton Rochester has attained an almost professional proficiency at billiard. He earns a nice income with billiard tournaments and bets.
Miss Evelyn Markham will do everything to avoid the marriage her father has decided for her, including requesting Rochester’s help, and breaking as many rules of the ton as possible to render herself unattractive for any suitor.
When Rochester has to save her from dangling from her chamber window, he agrees reluctantly to help her.
Escapades and mishaps follow each other in rapid succession.
A charming story full of funny moments, but also a love story between two unlikely characters.
Dalton Rochester has attained an almost professional proficiency at billiard. He earns a nice income with billiard tournaments and bets.
Miss Evelyn Markham will do everything to avoid the marriage her father has decided for her, including requesting Rochester’s help, and breaking as many rules of the ton as possible to render herself unattractive for any suitor.
When Rochester has to save her from dangling from her chamber window, he agrees reluctantly to help her.
Escapades and mishaps follow each other in rapid succession.
A charming story full of funny moments, but also a love story between two unlikely characters.
June 18, 2024
I love an unconventional heroine , and Evelyn Markham, is one of the best. Outspoken and daring , she pulls Viscount Rochester (Dalton) into her schemes and earns herself his pet name of “Goose”. Their dialogue and very clever banter make this book so delightful. Evelyn seeks Rochester’s help in getting her out of a betrothal her father is arranging for her, and although he tries not to be involved, Rochester realizes that the only man for Evelyn is himself. Too bad that her family doesn’t agree.
June 19, 2024
I loved that this was a best friends sister story without all the “can’t be around you” bull. Even though Evelyn has been secretly in love with Rochester for years, he is the one she calls on for help and he answers in his own way. Both of them have past trauma to come to terms with and he needs to reconnect with his family. This is a new to me author and I liked that she took a different approach to the story from similar things I have read. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would read more by this author.
October 20, 2024
This was an entertaining story with great characters. A youthful, ill thought out adventure of a group of friends leads to estrangement from their fathers. Dalton knew neither his best friend nor his father would approve of a relationship between him and his friend's sister. Dalton fought his feelings until the headstrong lady began entreating him to save her from an arranged marriage. Thus began a clandestine courtship with unpredictable ups and downs as all strived to lay the ghosts of their pasts to rest.
March 9, 2025
Can Scandal Lead to a Happy Ending?
Evelyn is determined to avoid marrying the man her father has chosen for her. For years, she has secretly loved her brother's best friend, Dalton, and now she sees him as her only hope. Desperate, she sends him notes asking for his help — but receives no response. Still, when she attempts a daring escape and nearly falls from a window, Dalton comes to her rescue. Will he also save her from the unwanted marriage? For the answer, you might want to read this entertaining and romantic tale.
Evelyn is determined to avoid marrying the man her father has chosen for her. For years, she has secretly loved her brother's best friend, Dalton, and now she sees him as her only hope. Desperate, she sends him notes asking for his help — but receives no response. Still, when she attempts a daring escape and nearly falls from a window, Dalton comes to her rescue. Will he also save her from the unwanted marriage? For the answer, you might want to read this entertaining and romantic tale.
October 1, 2024
As always this author weaves a tale too good not to read. Evelyn is a tornado Rochester can’t outrun, nor does he really want to. Evelyn is bent on getting out of a match her father set up and she is not having any of it! I loved Rochester’s sense of protection for her, his best friend’s sister and adored Evelyn’s determination to win. The banter is funny and their love just leaps off the page.
I received this story for free and these are my own thoughts and opinions
I received this story for free and these are my own thoughts and opinions
June 4, 2024
Beautifully written romance, full of character, wit, light and passion. Evelyn and Dalton are something special and so is this story. I love their connection, friends to lovers, sparring all the way to their happily ever after.
September 14, 2024
There is some good banter between the hero and his best friend’s sister. The heroine is trying to get out of an unwanted engagement and is trying to create a scandal to do it. One way is to wager with the hero. It was a storyteller with a few twists before the HEA.
September 25, 2024
A beautiful story. Well crafted with great creativity. The two main characters had not only great chemistry but I loved the banter and wit. The overall story kept me on my toes with lots of twists and turns. Don't miss out on this series or this book.
May 21, 2024
Absolutely loved Dalton and Evelyn's story of passion, love and wagering, such a a great series starter, can't wait for the next book.
June 16, 2024
This book was captivating, when 2 people try to fight and ignore their attraction, because they are friends, and he is her brothers best friend, leads to lots of good banter. I loved how strong the hero was and to what lengths he was prepared to go to get her father to accept him. Also what she would do to escape her father. Throw in other friends, and past history of loss, and you have a brilliant mix for a story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2024
Evelyn Markham is in her third season, and find out that she in betrothed to a Baron her father has picked out. She refuses to marry this man as she’s in love with Dalton Rochester her brother’s friend.
This all started at a Christmas party where Evelyn bet a shilling with Rochester to make a shot at billiards. Rochester lost the shot and has kept her shilling in his shoe.
Evelyn is pushing the envelope with Rochester to help her with her plan. He is trying to keep away from her but he can’t resit her. He doesn’t respond to her notes but he is where he needs to be to keep her safe.
The banter between Evelyn and Rochester is off the chart. He try so hard to not cross the line, but Evelyn will push him pass their limits. They declare that they love each other and must come up with a way to allow them to marry. Come along on this magical journey to everlasting love.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This all started at a Christmas party where Evelyn bet a shilling with Rochester to make a shot at billiards. Rochester lost the shot and has kept her shilling in his shoe.
Evelyn is pushing the envelope with Rochester to help her with her plan. He is trying to keep away from her but he can’t resit her. He doesn’t respond to her notes but he is where he needs to be to keep her safe.
The banter between Evelyn and Rochester is off the chart. He try so hard to not cross the line, but Evelyn will push him pass their limits. They declare that they love each other and must come up with a way to allow them to marry. Come along on this magical journey to everlasting love.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2024
In his youth, Dalton Rochester and his friends, including Wynn Markham, made a huge mistake while drunk and gambling. When Wynn’s father exiled him to Bath for a while, his friends went with him. His father has forgiven him, mostly, but not Rochester, whom he blames for the whole incident. Evelyn Markham, Wynn’s sister, is determined not to marry the man her father has chosen for her. She knows what she wants, Dalton Rochester. Her campaign to win him and his reaction to it make a wonderfully entertaining romantic adventure. Evelyn and Rochester are delightful together. She is independent and determined. He tries hard to do the honorable thing and resist her. Their story is filled with fun, witty banter, a bit of angst, and some twists and turns as they journey towards their happy ending. To think, it started with a shilling in his shoe.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
September 24, 2024
She started as a pebble in his shoe, but quickly became his rock…
Lady Evelyn decided a long time ago Dalton, Viscount Rochester, was the only man for her. If only the stubborn cad would see her as a woman instead of his best friend’s vexing little sister! No matter, if he’s not willing to help, she’ll find some other way to break a few rules and scare off the husband her father chose.
For a rogue nothing is quite as off limits as his best friend’s little sister, especially when he dragged said friend to hell and back. But, when that little sister has set her mind on deterring her unwanted fiancé with a little scandal, there’s not much left to do, but to save her from herself - even if he can barely resist the little goose himself.
She ends up hiding in his home for a week, and their sarcastic bantering finally gives way for some real conversations, honesty and a little adventure. Once she confesses her true feelings for him, he’s no longer able to deny his own. Passion flares, love blooms and… reality kicks in. Their budding romance becomes a race against time to convince her family he’s worthy despite his past and that they truly belong together.
This story was ride and I couldn’t help feel for these MCs!
On one side this story is extremely naughty and playful, and the other it’s very emotional and moving. They’re both young and impulsive, but underneath his rakish veneer lays a heavy burden. They both need to face their fears and their fathers. There were a few moments I feared it was a lost cause, but, this being a romance, it all works out in the end, albeit with some thrilling twists and turns.
This story was like catnip for me! It pulled on all my heartstring, the steam was delicious and the chemistry chef’s kiss. Well-written, nicely paced, funny, colourful and compelling till the very end, this was a very entertaining read and I’m eagerly looking forward to more!
Lady Evelyn decided a long time ago Dalton, Viscount Rochester, was the only man for her. If only the stubborn cad would see her as a woman instead of his best friend’s vexing little sister! No matter, if he’s not willing to help, she’ll find some other way to break a few rules and scare off the husband her father chose.
For a rogue nothing is quite as off limits as his best friend’s little sister, especially when he dragged said friend to hell and back. But, when that little sister has set her mind on deterring her unwanted fiancé with a little scandal, there’s not much left to do, but to save her from herself - even if he can barely resist the little goose himself.
She ends up hiding in his home for a week, and their sarcastic bantering finally gives way for some real conversations, honesty and a little adventure. Once she confesses her true feelings for him, he’s no longer able to deny his own. Passion flares, love blooms and… reality kicks in. Their budding romance becomes a race against time to convince her family he’s worthy despite his past and that they truly belong together.
This story was ride and I couldn’t help feel for these MCs!
On one side this story is extremely naughty and playful, and the other it’s very emotional and moving. They’re both young and impulsive, but underneath his rakish veneer lays a heavy burden. They both need to face their fears and their fathers. There were a few moments I feared it was a lost cause, but, this being a romance, it all works out in the end, albeit with some thrilling twists and turns.
This story was like catnip for me! It pulled on all my heartstring, the steam was delicious and the chemistry chef’s kiss. Well-written, nicely paced, funny, colourful and compelling till the very end, this was a very entertaining read and I’m eagerly looking forward to more!
September 11, 2024
I loved this captivating historical romance that charts the tempestuous relationship between Dalton Rochester & Evelyn Markham. The author's writing is both fluid & evocative, drawing readers into a world where every whispered scandal carries weight, & every glance holds a story.
The book's strength lies in its well-crafted narrative and dynamic protagonists. Dalton, with his brooding intensity, & Evelyn, with her indomitable spirit, are characters that leap off the page & claim the reader’s investment in their fates. Their romance unfolds with a delicate balance of tension & tenderness, making their journey towards love both believable & enchanting.
In essence, this is a gem, offering a story that is as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming. The author's talent shines through in her ability to weave a tale that is both grand & intimate, making this book a recommended read for anyone who cherishes historical romances with a soul. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book's strength lies in its well-crafted narrative and dynamic protagonists. Dalton, with his brooding intensity, & Evelyn, with her indomitable spirit, are characters that leap off the page & claim the reader’s investment in their fates. Their romance unfolds with a delicate balance of tension & tenderness, making their journey towards love both believable & enchanting.
In essence, this is a gem, offering a story that is as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming. The author's talent shines through in her ability to weave a tale that is both grand & intimate, making this book a recommended read for anyone who cherishes historical romances with a soul. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 5, 2024
Evelyn Markham father has found her a match and she is trapped in an unwanted betrothal. She will do anything to get out of it and seeks help from her brother’s best friend, Dalton Rochester.
Evelyn was such a carefree and spirited young lady, who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. Dalton tries to do the right thing, he tries to ignore the feelings he has for her because she is his best friend’s sister. I loved that he always came to her rescue and that they had a lot of challenges to overcome but they somehow overcome all obstacles.
The author has given us a delightful, witty story with misunderstandings, tension, and heartfelt moments. Dalton was a bit serious but his teasing nature and calling her “goose” was just so adorable.
What a great story! If you like historical romances with some angst, witty banter, and a heartfelt journey to happiness, I highly recommend this book. I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Evelyn was such a carefree and spirited young lady, who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. Dalton tries to do the right thing, he tries to ignore the feelings he has for her because she is his best friend’s sister. I loved that he always came to her rescue and that they had a lot of challenges to overcome but they somehow overcome all obstacles.
The author has given us a delightful, witty story with misunderstandings, tension, and heartfelt moments. Dalton was a bit serious but his teasing nature and calling her “goose” was just so adorable.
What a great story! If you like historical romances with some angst, witty banter, and a heartfelt journey to happiness, I highly recommend this book. I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 27, 2024
“You’re like a painting, a work of art my mind returns to a dozen times a day.”
“She settled him, balanced him, breathed life into him, and he couldn’t, wouldn’t, live without her.”
Highly romantic, semi-low angst, character-rich, story about Evelyn who is in love with a friend (Dalton) of her brother (Winn). Unfortunately her father has arranged a marriage to another. Not knowing what to do, she turns to Dalton for help , who comes to realize he loves her also. But Dalton, due to a young man’s lapse in judgment, put himself into a potentially ruinous situation and was helped by Winn years earlier. This could have also ruined Winn’s (and therefore Evelyn by extension) reputation and Evelyn’s father won’t hear a relationship between Dalton and Evelyn. Having an open mind and realizing when you are wrong about someone is a recurring theme as well as the chance for redemption. My heart broke over Dalton’s family situation and was glad that he had Evelyn who was never going to give up on him. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this Book.
“She settled him, balanced him, breathed life into him, and he couldn’t, wouldn’t, live without her.”
Highly romantic, semi-low angst, character-rich, story about Evelyn who is in love with a friend (Dalton) of her brother (Winn). Unfortunately her father has arranged a marriage to another. Not knowing what to do, she turns to Dalton for help , who comes to realize he loves her also. But Dalton, due to a young man’s lapse in judgment, put himself into a potentially ruinous situation and was helped by Winn years earlier. This could have also ruined Winn’s (and therefore Evelyn by extension) reputation and Evelyn’s father won’t hear a relationship between Dalton and Evelyn. Having an open mind and realizing when you are wrong about someone is a recurring theme as well as the chance for redemption. My heart broke over Dalton’s family situation and was glad that he had Evelyn who was never going to give up on him. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this Book.
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