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Wainwright Sisters #4

When Jess Wainwright's Curiosity Was Satisfied

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Jess Wainwright loves her teaching position at the village school. Despite the occasional frog in her chair. What she doesn't love is the interfering school superintendent, Cadoc Morgan. His niece and nephew attend her school and he thinks that gives him the authority to make unannounced visits to her classroom for observation, and remove the microscope she obtained for science lessons. Jess and Cadoc are both firmly opposed to each other - until a reckless bargain exposes everything seething beneath the surface between them.

198 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 25, 2025

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17 people want to read

About the author

Andrea Jenelle

37 books273 followers
I write steamy small town romance (Willow Creek series), paranormal romantasy (Sons & Daughters of Lir) and Victorian era historical romance (Wainwright Sisters) with heat and heart.
I'm a 2X HOLT Award Winning Author (2023, No Regrets- Best First Book; 2025, No Excuses - Best Short Contemporary) who's had characters begging me to tell their love story since I was thirteen years old. I'm finally letting them have a voice.
I wrote my first story, about a giant who befriended a lady bug when I was in the second grade.
I live on a peaceful farm with my spouse and love nothing more than sitting on my porch with a glass of wine and plotting.
You can subscribe to my newsletter via my author website, ANDREAJENELLEROMANCE at https://andreajenelleromance.com/ or see what I'm up to on Instagram and TikTok via my handle @authorandreajenelle

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
Profile Image for Lindsay  pinkcowlandreads.
833 reviews107 followers
March 26, 2025
4.5⭐️

I absolutely love historical romance features non-aristocratic MCs, an author Andrea Janelle does an amazing job writing intriguing romances featuring characters that represent the everyday person of the time.

In the fourth book of Wainwright sisters series, When Jess Wainwright’s Curiosity was Satisfied, just Wainwright is a local school teacher, who gets tempted by former miner and now inventor, Cadoc Morgan. I feel like Wainwright sisters have been getting a lot of hardened heroes that need to find their perfect mate to soften them up, and Cadoc definitely fits this mold!

He’s the first hero Andrea has written that took me a little bit to get around to. He expresses his interest in Jess from the start, but he goes about his “courtship” in a very underhanded manner! I didn’t approve of his methods but in the end it turns out that you do have to break some eggs to make an omelet- or in this case steal a microscope!

This a slow burn ENEMIES to lovers that has the MC pushing the FC out of her comfort zone to finally open up to the possibility of passion… romance and finally love!

Profile Image for Mama Needs to Read Romance.
571 reviews183 followers
Read
March 10, 2025
DNF at 10%

This book isn’t for me. The writing is solid, though! I recommend this for readers who enjoy alpha, morally grey heroes. Additionally, I believe you’ll get more out of this book if you’ve read the previous three books in the series. 😃
Profile Image for Melinda Greathouse.
372 reviews
May 31, 2025
I really enjoyed this book by Andrea Jenelle. This family of sisters has my heart, and I love reading about each of them and seeing their relationships play out in the stories. What I loved about this story in particular is that Cadoc steals something from Jess and intends to make her earn it back (but intends her to fail), but Jess turns the tables on him and is given full agency throughout the story. Every step of the way, she has choices and, dare I say, power. This was a well-written entry into this series.

I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Bonnie.
1,108 reviews18 followers
March 29, 2025
Thanks to BookSirens for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is book 4 of the Wainwright Sisters and occurs just about concurrently to book 3. Jess Wainwright has become the teacher for the local schoolhouse, and takes great joy in engaging the minds of the children through more modern methods, while also progressing on her own research of local fauna. But her efforts are stymied when Cadoc Morgan, a wealthy industrialist who has also become a school superintendent, starts to interfere and distract her. His niece and nephew also attend the school and he often drops in unannounced. But worst of all, he manages to abscond with her precious microscope and holds it as a bargaining chip, and her own work and upcoming lessons are vital on it's return.

Cadoc is a wealthy powerful man who was born poor, and started working in the mines as a child, with his brother and mother. But when a devastating explosion takes them, he is left responsible for his family as a teenager. With that burden on him, he takes what he has learned about the mines and invents safer measures and advocates for them, eventually leading to his success and wealth, though he still carries deep emotional scars of their family's losses, hidden behind a facade of wealthy rake. Jess Wainwright fascinates him, but unlike his previous liaisons, she does not fall easily for him, and he feels forced to take other measures gain her attention, including blackmailing her, in the hopes that when he succeeds, once he has had her, his fascination with her will end - the itch will be satisfied.

Jess, despite her cool demeanor towards Cadoc, is attracted, intrigued, and curious, and in the end, succumbs to his bargain to satisfy her own curiosity.

A story that has me equating some of Cadoc's behaviour to that of a schoolboy yanking on the hair of the object of his affection, like Gilbert Blythe does Anne Shirley, because he doesn't know how to get her attention otherwise. But he takes it too far, and I have a problem with Cadoc's abuse of his power, and status to seduce Jess - even though he does not intend to actually blackmail her, etc, that is not what he initially tells her and it is still an untenable situation he places her in.

Hard to get over that, despite his backstory, and that he genuinely likes that Jess is a strong, intelligent woman - but the beginning of their story has some strong ick factor for me.

Also, considering how the Wainwright sisters were abandoned by their father (whom I still feel needs to be confronted and given some kind of comeuppance - I still don't understand how the woman he ended up with can condone his abandonment of his own family what the hells is wrong with her???), I do enjoy the sisterly relationships and how the men who have married the Wainwrights have fit into the family and taken on brotherly/protective roles.

3.5 stars out of 5
Profile Image for Alexandra G.
675 reviews28 followers
March 18, 2025
A striking Victorian working-class romance set in Cumbria.

I did a little rewrite on the blurb. Let me know what you think :
Tragedy and perseverance made miner's son Cadoc Morgan into the man he is today: a force to be reckoned with - and most people do, except for Miss Wainwright. Devoted to her students and their future, she simply refuses to give him the time of day. A forbidden fruit he can no longer ignore. A distraction he needs to get out of his system...
Jess Wainwright loves her teaching position at the village school. What she doesn't love is the interfering school superintendent, Mr Morgan. His niece and nephew attend her school, and he thinks that gives him the authority to make unannounced visits to her classroom. And now he's gone and stolen her precious microscope; she's furious!
The only recourse he gives her for reclaiming it is on illicit wager. A scandalous offer she should refuse - the man is a cad and a rogue - but an intriguing one... and she really needs her microscope back - even if it's piece by piece.
As the kisses between them grow more frequent and irresistible neither one wants to admit that their bargain has become far more than they thought it would.


Jess & Cadoc
She’s one of the younger Wainwright sisters, a devoted teacher, content in her situation, but also a little lost now that Cece – her closest ally growing up – has left for Scotland, and a little stuck. She knows there’s more to life than this, and his cad-like approach to courting is the exact right thing to force her out of her comfort zone.
He’s the miner’s son with an uncanny talent for making things that will make his fellow miners lives safer. His inventions gave him the power and influence to actually make a difference. He’s also a man who, after tragedy struck, at the tender age of fourteen became the man of the house and raised his younger siblings.

I liked the push and pull of this romance – two steps forward, one step back, his cheeky patient way of wearing her down, the way she takes the upper hand as soon as she discovers how to, and the love and care of a big meddling warm nest. They’re both tough and stubborn with gooey tender soft hearts, and rub together like hammer and anvil – sparks everywhere until an unbreakable bond is forged.
And then he goes and cocks it up... the rest is for you to find out!

A witty, sizzling read that was over far too quickly. I wouldn’t have minded and extra chapter or two; a setup for the next sister maybe? It wasn’t a sweep-me-of-my-feet grand romance like the previous three stories, but still wonderful, humorous and absolutely unputdownable!
A great novella and I’m eagerly looking forward to what comes next!
Profile Image for Imromanticallyinvolved .
256 reviews15 followers
March 24, 2025
I wasn't so sure how much I was going to like Cadoc, appropriately shortened to "Cad" at one point, but I trusted Andrea's writing and held off judgement. His initial approach to Jess is a little misunderstood but the more I learned about Jess, the more I understood his reasoning. And the more I learned about Cadoc, the more I liked him.

I don't think Cadoc expected the terms of his wager to be turned back onto him and I thought this was both hilarious and clever. Jess needed this unconventional pursuit to break her out of her rigidity and once she realized she held some power, and used it, is when the story really picks up.

I loved the passing of batons in this relay romance. One minute Cadoc thinks he has the upper hand and the next minute Jess has the upper hand. Throughout this back and forth they learn so much about each other that they find hard to share with others creating a closeness neither expected. Their chemistry is never in question but does cause some confusion in what their end goal is between each other.

This is definitely a story you want to see to the end. Their happy ending is earned as they both need to search deep inside themselves and get over their fear of placing their hearts in the hands of another. I love that they weren't alone while working through their indecision. They each had their sisters support, advice and sometimes their blunt honesty. If only we were all so lucky!

This is another well written addition to the series that had me smiling, laughing, sighing and only a little hair pulling (Me. Not them lol) There are a few scenes that will live rent free in my mind—Cadoc greeting her at the door, library ladders, and the heartbreaking conversation with Cadoc's niece and nephew. The intimate scenes are explicit, inventive and caring with a little bit of "teach me" moments. I really look forward to the next book in this series!

I was honored to beta and ARC read this book. (Thank you!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jessica White.
493 reviews48 followers
March 27, 2025
A good wager in a romance novel is hard to beat. So when Cadoc Morgan approaches Jess Wainwright and propositions her for her virtue in exchange for her treasured microscope being returned, Jess tries to do everything except take the wager. An illicit proposal always needs a good counter bargain, and not to be outdone, Jess makes her own negotiation with Cadoc. It is assumed from the beginning that Cadoc sees something in Jess that he wants but can’t have and both protagonists are strong-willed, hard-headed intelligent sparring partners when comes to who whether Jess will ever see her blessed microscope again. Why a microscope? It was expensive for its time and a crucial instrument Jess needs for evaluating a species of dragonflies and their habbits/characteristics. So this is the perfect instrument for Cadoc to hold over Jess as something she both treasures and needs for her research.

As you can imagine, Cadoc and Jess attempt to out strategize each other, but quickly come to realize that losing the bet may be the thing they each most desire. Cadoc attempts to trade unaffected kisses for power, but when the tables are turned on him, he’s found to desire Jess just as much as she finds it difficult to resist him. Andrea Jenelle’s books are always steamy and this is no exception. You can expect library ladder shenanigans, headboard clutching, wardrobe makeouts, and an MC that comes just from pleasuring her. A quick read that includes Wainwright sisters and more from the tiny region of Cumbria, this book is sure to please. I received an early copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Fanosse23.
627 reviews
May 10, 2025
Jess Wainwright, the youngest of the sisters, is a passionate and dedicated science teacher. However, her devotion to her students is tested by the meddlesome school superintendent, Cadoc Morgan. Because his niece and nephew attend Jess's school, Cadoc feels entitled to make surprise visits to her classroom and even seizes the microscope she procured for her science lessons.

Determined to reclaim what’s rightfully hers, Jess confronts Cadoc, only to find his audacity extends beyond his professional overreach—he proposes a shockingly inappropriate bargain. Jess, undeterred, counters with a bold proposition of her own: if Cadoc fails to seduce her, he must return the microscope, piece by piece. Thus begins a war of wills, wit, and undeniable chemistry.

Beneath Cadoc’s seemingly arrogant exterior lies a complex man shaped by a tragic past in Welsh mining. His stern demeanor masks a deep commitment to improving miner safety and an unwavering dedication to his family. His character unfolds gradually, revealing layers of vulnerability, strength, and an unexpected tenderness that adds depth to this intriguing dynamic.

The spirited interactions between Jess and Cadoc are a delightful blend of sharp wit, intellectual debate, shared values, and simmering passion. Their banter crackles with energy, and as the story progresses, the evolution of their relationship feels both authentic and deeply engaging. While Cadoc's manipulative tactics to win Jess’s favor raised moral questions, they also served to highlight Jess’s resilience and ingenuity.

The story’s heart is further enriched by the warmth of family connections—Jess’s supportive relatives and Cadoc’s charming nieces add layers of emotional resonance, underscoring the theme of love in its many forms.

Andrea Jenelle masterfully intertwines sensual romance with poignant, heartfelt moments. Her expressive and moving writing kept my attention from start to finish, making the emotional journey feel intimate and relatable. The lively banter, emotional depth, and captivating character dynamics create a compelling narrative that lingers long after the final page. A story of love, resilience, and self-discovery—this novel is not just recommended; it's an absolute must-read for fans of strong heroines, and charming but flawed rogues. I’m eagerly looking forward to what comes next!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through a giveaway and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.


Profile Image for Whitney Theresa June.
299 reviews11 followers
March 10, 2025
Enter my newest book boyfriend!!!!! Cadoc Morgan!

Take one teacher, Jess Waingwright, and add in a superintendent, Cadoc Morgan, who finds his fascination with flustering her beyond his control. So what does he do? He steals her microscope and offers a wager of seduction. What he doesn't realise is how what starts off as an attraction soon becomes so much more!

Goodness I love Andrea Jenelle's writing! Her Wainwright Sister's novels have completely captured my heart and I take every MMC as a book boyfriend. It is quickly becoming an AJ reverse harem over here.

I loved seeing Jess's character bloom. How what was initially a coercion of sorts became her taking the reins on how she wanted to feel and be treated. I loved loved loved the closet scene where she first turns the tables on Cadoc. It had me giggling with such joy. I also love seeing her being supported by Vin and CeCe, as she has been the sisterly support in the previous novels. Seeing these sister's and the way they come together makes me wish my own sisterly relationships could be more like this. Vin offering to poison Cadoc, had me worried for him and his Christmas dinner.

Oh Cadoc Morgan, you cad! From the moment he shows up on page, I was instantly hooked to the gruff self-made inventor. The scene where Jess shows up to his house unexpectedly and he greets her with an open shirt and he leans putting his hands on the door frame! My heart needed resuscitation! This scene is currently living rent free in my head along with the library ladder scenes! *insert fanning self vigorously here* Oh and I may have been singing "take me to church" during the entirety of chapter 21! Andrea Jenelle's men are often quite the cinnamon roles and I feel like Cadoc had a bit more of a crunchy/toasted exterior. He gave me Lisa Kleypas MMC vibes and I was here for it!

Now I just need to go back and listen to Arie & Thad's book via audiobook and reread Cece and Mal's novel as it happens at the same time as Jess and Cadoc's! I love getting to see what was happening behind the scenes knowing the previous story! Such great standalones that are just further enriched by reading the other novels!

I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for Marion Löw.
754 reviews12 followers
April 9, 2025
What I like so much about the series is that all the Wainwright sisters are strong women who all have their own strengths and abilities and live very liberally for their time and yet are always close-knit. This time the story is about the youngest sister, Jess, who is passionate about teaching, scientific research and making the most of every precious moment. The plot is very well written, has enemies to lovers and working class tropes, and is filled with past drama, banter, humor and steamy love scenes. Jess’ antagonist is Cadoc, who doesn't come across as likable at first, but gradually you realise that he is honorable, caring and insecure. The tension and sizzling chemistry between them was great from the start and it was fun to see them grow closer as their wager and relationship progressed and the lines of who is seducing who slowly blurred.

Jess is the youngest of the Wainwright sisters and teaches science at the local school. Some time ago, her beloved microscope was stolen by the school's superintendent and womanizer, Cadoc Morgan, who has so far refused to give it back to her. But now he suddenly makes her an illicit proposition: her virtue for the microscope.
Cadoc, a former miner from Wales, has made his fortune with inventions designed to improve the working conditions of miners after losing his mother and older brother in an accident as a child and being responsible for his younger sisters ever since.
Cadoc has been fascinated by Jess for a long time and hopes that his desire will subside after a passionate night with her. Jess in turn offers him a modified wager. He can try to seduce her, but if she remains immune, Cadoc must give her back the microscope piece by piece. Only she finds it harder and harder to resist him...

Overall, a lighthearted quick read with worthy opponents and spice that I am happy to recommend!

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
Profile Image for Debbie Steed.
206 reviews4 followers
April 17, 2025
I have read and loved all the Wainwright Sisters books and this one was just as great.
I enjoyed this fourth book with the story between Jess Wainwright and Cadoc Morgan. It did take a while for me to warm to Cardoc and his devious trick of stealing a microscope and then his scandalous bargain to return something that belonged to the school that Jess taught at. Cadoc is a self made man who has become the guardian of his sister’s two children who go to Jess’s school. His experiences in the mines in Wales lit a fire in Cadoc to improve conditions and safety in the mines, resulting in him inventing new technologies for safety and making him wealthy.

I liked to read the battle of power between the two, Jess is certainly no pushover and Cadoc knows just how to push her buttons. They both share similar opinions about social issues and education it just seems at the beginning that Cadoc finds himself very interested in Jess but doesn’t know how to handle it, so he torments her to get her attention. They come to an arrangement for the return of the microscope Once Jess decides she is going to take control of the situation, with the help of her sisters and brother’s in law, the battle of wills really begins.
There are some very sensual moments between Jess and Cardoc. It is a low angst read but has a wonderful storyline and the secondary characters inhance the story. The close bonds between Jess and her family and Cadoc and his really show the strength of Jess and Cadoc’s character. They have their difficulties and Cadoc has some self esteem issues to overcome but they find happiness in the end. The only thing that I was disappointed in was there was no epilogue which I feel is needed to complete the story.
It was an afternoon well spent reading this book.
I received a special copy from Booksirens. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Lb.
137 reviews1 follower
October 2, 2025
It took me a bit to get into this story but once it got going I finished it pretty quickly. In the beginning before you truly get to know Cadoc you find the fact that he took the microscope in the first place then made a wager that could potentially ruin Jess's reputation and career as a teacher is really low, but throughout the book you find out he really is a caring guy who became man of the house at an early age and took the role as care giver to his younger sisters and now his niece and nephew he really is a family man with a big heart and some rogue like ways.

What we have here is a story about a man who really likes a woman but since he's used to a more one night stand kind of situation he doesn't know how to show it properly and misbehaves (taking the microscope) to get the attention he wants from his love interest. Once the bet happens steam and sparks fly pretty regularly the back and forth of this power struggle is great I liked that our FMC Jess turned things around on him several times throughout the book getting the upper hand she's not going to give him a win, he needs to earn it.

I also enjoyed the side characters both our MMC and FMC had a loving and supportive family who only wanted what was best for them. Our couple are both stubborn will they be able to find true happiness together or will they let it slip out of reach? Also will Jess get her microscope back or will she lose the wager and quite possibly her heart in the process?

wrote a bit more about this on my blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...

*ARC Read *Book Sirens *Historical Romance *Working class *spice *spinster FMC

*inventor/self made man MMC *death of parents (mentioned this is in the past) *illicit wager

*handsome Rogue *Boss (MMC)/Teacher (FMC) *enemies to more *slow burn
Profile Image for Mary Lynne.
727 reviews
April 10, 2025
Once this book gets going, it’s a grand and fun read. But I struggled with its initial premise. Cadoc, our hero (appropriately called Cad), is a player, and he’s really interested in the local schoolmistress, the titular Jess. But she’s the classic prim and proper schoolmarm, and since Cad only has short-term relationships with women, Jess is clearly not a woman who’d do that. So he steals her treasured microscope and sets up a Faustian bargain with her: to get it back, she needs to submit to his affections and show no desire on her part.

Honestly, that’s pretty lousy of Cad, to steal something of hers in the first place, and then to challenge her status in their local society and potentially her job if they’re discovered in any sort of compromising position to get back what he took. Add to it that Cad’s the school superintendent and technically Jess’s boss!

But what Jenelle does wonderfully in this book is create agency for Jess. She consistently negotiates the terms of her arrangement with Cad, adding new stipulations and challenges. And despite Cad’s rakish reputation, he’s basically gone for Jess and willing to do anything to get further with her (and is surprisingly respectful of her in certain cases). This creates much greater equality in their situation that the premise initially suggests. And of course, the more time they spend together, the more time they want to spend together.

The secondary characters support these two well, if somewhat easily accepting their situation, and seeing our protagonists learn about each other, their families, and their histories made this a rewarding read. It’s a worthy addition to Jenelle’s charming series about the Wainwright sisters.
Profile Image for Rynns Reviews.
106 reviews2 followers
March 12, 2025
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Kindle ARC
𝗟𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵: 182 pages
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: 4/5
𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴: 2/5
𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: 5/5
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲: 5/5

𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄:
It is not a secret that I love this author, it's why she is one of the few people I read ARC's for. Historical pieces are not my favourite, but I do enjoy them. The only reason I did not give this particular novel 5 stars is because there are other books of Andrea's that I love more than this one so I felt it wasn't fair to them to rate this just as high.
This book was such a treat to read. I like the historical aspect of it, even though it's not overly done. You know by the speech, clothing, and what little bit of the village you read about, that it is a historical romance. However it's not overdone to the point where reading it becomes drab. I very much enjoyed the story of Jess and Cadoc. I like how strong, intelligent, and independent of a woman Jess is for that era. I love that even though she has obvious fears, she doesn't let them stop her from pursuing what she wants. Cadoc, he is layered. He acts like a ladies man, sleeping with the widows of the village like the bachelor he is, all the while that behavior is him trying to hide his attraction to Jess and how he really is a caring, loving, protective person. He is just afraid of feeling the loss of someone he loves, as he has felt in the past.
Reading the progression of these two in their mutual pursuit of each other was entertaining, captivating, and to be honest, panty drenching. The library ladder scene will forever live in my imagination.
This installment of the Wainwright sisters was a very enjoyable read that I definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Katlyn Myers.
128 reviews4 followers
March 16, 2025
I was excited for Jess’ story because she’s stubborn and mouthy, and the mmc would need to be the perfect match to hold his own against her. Cadoc does just that. I was curious in the beginning how I’d really feel about him because of the choices he was making. But of course, Andrea made me love another fictional man through words alone. He pushed Jess out of her comfort zone and taught her that it’s okay to want more. (As long as that “more” was him 👀😅). But him teaching her things about life turned into her teaching him even more. She pushed him to accept what he thought he didn’t deserve instead of just wanting more. Their wager may have started as a means to an end for each of them, but watching their feelings develop in an uncommon way was interesting. I was immediately sucked back into their world and didn’t want to put the book down until it was over. Even then, it’s easy to wish for more when it comes to Andrea’s writing.

I also love the relationships portrayed between sisters in this series. We see different sides of sibling relationships, struggles, and love. Instead of them all just being best friends and saying what the other wants to hear, sometimes it’s tough love. Some sisters are closer than others. Sometimes it’s less than beautiful, as is life. But they come together and respect each other enough to know when to turn from their opinions and support each other. My sister is my best friend, so maybe I’m biased, but the Wainwright sisters are some of my favorite main characters. As always, I can’t wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for ikwi.
266 reviews6 followers
April 2, 2025
Cadoc is attracted to Jess but she won't give him or any man the time of day, so Cadoc has his nephew steal Jess's microscope and won't return it unless she sleeps with him. (I am surprised that Jess isn't much angrier with him for this.) The attraction is mutual, even if Jess won't admit it, and they end up striking up a wager, where if either she remains unmoved or he becomes extremely aroused during their makeout sessions, Jess gets one piece of the microscope. So they end up getting together for more and deeper intimacy, slowly lower their defenses, and after some angst near the end about him not deserving her, they get their HEA. The spicy scenes are numerous and well done, and are a strength of the book. However, I found the beginning of the book a bit rough, and both Cadoc and Jess insufficiently fleshed out for the premise with Cadoc's indecent proposal to fully make sense. My guess is that this would have been less of an issue if I had read the previous three books. Anyway, once the novel finds its footing about a third of the way in, both character development and on-page intimacy work really well. I also appreciate that the book features commoners rather than nobility.

I received an advance review copy for free through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Lynn_G.
1,093 reviews24 followers
March 14, 2025
Super sexy romance about Jess, one of the Wainwright sisters and a dedicated science-forward teacher who is outraged to find her classroom microscope has been spirited away by the roguish school superintendent who offers for her to “win” back the equipment piecemeal in trade for an equal number of kisses. Add in the man threatening to expose Jess’s sister’s counseling women about family planning, and Jess could not refuse.

Having made his fortune developing equipment to improve the safety of miners after a childhood fraught with danger and tremendous loss in and around the industry, Cadoc Morgan is only missing a life partner who’ll challenge him while helping him be the best version of himself. Instead of approaching Jess in a straightforward manner, however, he swipes her microscope in a cockeyed attempt at forced proximity.

When “payment” is meted out, however, the impact is incendiary, and their passion is intense. But to what end? Jess is leery of Cadoc’s intentions, and a well-meaning brother-in-law tries to force Cadoc’s hand quite literally, but Jess doesn’t want to be anyone’s obligation.

I received an advance reader copy from the author and booksirens, and I’m sharing my honest review.
112 reviews1 follower
March 18, 2025
Steam Alert. If that does not put you off, read this book. I was captured by the title and found my page turner. Maybe a Rom-com, but so much fun. Jess Wainwright’s family intrigues me. These sisters are quite the support team. They are all fierce and I have quite the respect for the men that they choose to love and who love them. They say curiosity killed the cat, but here I would say Jess is a tiger in disguise. I loved her approach to teaching, her interest in science and her curiosity is well matched. Cadoc Morgan poked the tiger, and it was game on. Taking her beloved microscope was only the beginning. He made a wager, and this wager went well beyond his plan. A plan that went awry almost as soon as it started. I loved this story, the families, the conversations, the passion, and the chase. Who was chasing who might be in question. New to this series I now must read more about these fierce women. Hope you can read and enjoy. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for KelseyreadsHR.
496 reviews12 followers
March 19, 2025
Jess’s book has been teased for the last few books and I was looking forward to this book. I love when MC have similarities but different upbringings and that was the case with Cade and Jess.

Jess studies dragonflies and while I’m not always a fan of nicknames, Cade calls her dragonfly and I found it endearing here. Cade is from Wales and is a former miner turned inventor. He’s become a self made man while making mining safer.

While Cade issues the wager and holds the upper hand in the beginning, I really liked how Jess twisted it back on Cade and put the power struggle back on even ground. Also, how their confidence levels flipped as well from beginning to end.

When Jess Wainwright’s Curiosity was Satisfied is the fourth book in The Wainwright Sisters series. It’s best to have read book three first, as both books occur at the same time.

There are three encounters.

I received an advance reader copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
51 reviews1 follower
April 21, 2025
Jess is a strong and intelligent woman making her way through a simple life, pushing for progress for future generations. It took me a bit to warm up to Cal as his initial approach was definitely manipulative, however, Jess' curiosity and openness to experience allowed for more buy in for the progression of their relationship from me. I appreciated the collective protection from Jess' sisters and brother's in law and their ultimate respect for her choice no matter what. I enjoyed the camaraderie of Cal trying to win over Jess' family and would have loved to see a bit more of Cal's family integrated into the storyline. I recommend this book to anyone who has enjoyed the previous books in the series (though it isn't necessary to have read them already) and anyone who enjoys a strong and intelligent leading lady open to a change-making partner with a bit of spice!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,532 reviews19 followers
April 8, 2025
Well written, full of drama, intrigue, suspense, secrets, society, steam, blackmail, family and twists. Jess is a teacher in this book. She teaches at the village school where she lives. Cadoc is the new school superintendent who has a niece and nephew enrolled there. He grew up in a school of hard knocks. Together each has their own issues to deal with and their own way of dealing with them. Jess has a new microscope to help her teach her science class and someone removes it. She will need to figure out who did it and talk to the parents. Finding out that will start her on an adventure and a wager. This put them together more and feelings start to develop. The characters are ready to ignite, hot to touch read. Enjoy this read. has lots of action and excitement . Would recommend to all.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,089 reviews12 followers
April 10, 2025
He took her microscope and made a scandalous wager for its return. Jess is furious. How can she handle the wager? She must beat Cadoc at his own game. Kisses and control. In each of their encounters, the winner is the one who leaves the other wanting more. This is an absolutely delightful story of an inventor and a teacher (who loves to study dragonflies) who irritate and charm each other until they are caught. Now what happens? Will Jess get her microscope back? Will Cadoc win the girl? Jess and Cadoc are wonderful together even though they sort of fight it. The Wainwright sisters are concerned and helpful. Jess’s brothers-in-law are protective. Another well-written story in an entertaining series, great characters, wonderful read.
I received a special copy of this book via BookSirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,386 reviews29 followers
June 22, 2025
4.5 stars

We have two very stubborn people who are broken! Both deserving love but our hero more than anyone!

We have what reminds me of how a schoolboy pulls a girl hair and makes her cry! He doesn’t know how to act or show he really loves her!

This is Cadoc Morgan self made man has clawed his way up from the mines with his clever inventions! We have Jess Wainwright beloved school teacher and owner of a microscope!

In a wild need for attention Cadoc still said microscope and makes Jess a wager! This results in a fierce, steamy battle of wills neither will win!

When Cadoc fails to realize he is deserving of love it seems they both loose! Can these two very stubborn people have a HEA? Bravo well done!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for iesha Bright.
491 reviews18 followers
March 4, 2025
Oh Andrea does it again. this author keeps supplying me with book boyfriends that are so darn lovable. this one follows another Jess Wainwright and Cadoc Morgan. i have to say Mr. Morgan was obstinate about his wager with Jess. He knew taking her prized possession would ultimately force her hand and he wanted nothing more. Jess had no idea that this wager would ultimately change her. when the wager was finally done i didnt know there would be so much resistance from Mr. Morgan. im glad to see he came to his senses in the end. the little snip its of the other characters i have read joining in on this book was such a treat as well. i loved this book so much as i do all her other Victorian era historical romance novels about the other Wainwright women.
Profile Image for Charlotte (thepennotthesword).
157 reviews21 followers
March 16, 2025
Andrea Jenelle’s latest 5 star triumph, “When Jess Wainwright’s Curiosity Was Satisfied” is a stellar addition to the Wainwright series, weaving a love story that is provocative, humorous and charming. We are introduced to Jess Wainwright, a dedicated schoolteacher with a passion for educating all children, and Cadoc Morgan, the authoritative school superintendent who aims to resolve the mining dangers with his inventions, challenging Jess at every turn.

Andrea’s writing is beautifully poetic with an almost breathtaking descriptiveness. Through her writing, she paints incredibly vivid scenes that draw readers right into the middle of the narrative. Each character is superbly well-written, with Jess’ fierce independence and striving for knowledge, paired with Cadoc’s gruff exterior; both concealing this desperate yearning for connection that creates a truly compelling dynamic. The tension between them is palpable from the very first encounter and each interaction following is crackling and simmering with desire and withheld attraction. It is their shared wit that makes these characters so likeable and their wager is the catalyst, revealing suppressed emotions and some of the most exquisitely written tender and passionate moments! I don’t think I will ever look at library ladders the same!!

The intertwining of the lyrical prose, with a tension and passion-filled storyline, solidifies her standing as one of my absolute favourite historical romance writers. A breathtaking blend of passion, wit and yearning, this book is an absolute must-read. I cannot recommend this book, and the series, enough to historical romance lovers and for anyone who craves a romance that will linger long after the last page.
Profile Image for Cindy Stone.
251 reviews5 followers
April 3, 2025
Nothing like an supposedly unwilling lady and a man determined that he either can't love or doesn't want to fall in love to set up a wonderful irresistible meets unstoppable force, except which is which? Loved the story of Jess and Cadoc. This is the second of the Wainwright sisters' stories I've read and I've loved both of them. Now I have to see if I can find Arie's story so I get the whole picture of the Wainwright women! Lots of heat but great story as well. Something different from the Regency stories and other stories of the ton. Although I received an advance review copy for free, my opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
268 reviews
May 8, 2025
When Jess Wainwright's Curiosity Was Satisfied is a fun Victorian romcom that was such a delightful read! It is the first book in the series I read and now I will have to complete the series, because I need to know what happens to the other Wainwrights sisters and how they reach their HEA. I enjoyed the relationship between Cadoc and Jess immensely. It was passionate, challenging, sexy and fun. I loved Cadoc's mischivous and rakish, but also sweet personality. Jess is also a wonderful character. She is strong, independent and lovely. I can't recommend it enough!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Lauren Journey.
5 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2025
Oh my gosh, where do I even begin? I loved so much of this book! I absolutely could not put it down!
I absolutely loved Jess. Her wit and spunk! But also her strong will.
Cadoc, I wasn’t a fan of at first. But he really grew on me! This love story is beautiful and captivating and I absolutely cannot wait to read more from this author and perhaps these characters?
In my opinion, this is a must read if you love historic romance, Andrea really nailed the details, from the way the characters spoke, to how they dressed and many other things.
2,269 reviews21 followers
March 26, 2025
“When Jess Wainwright’s Curiosity Was Satisfied” by Andrea Janelle

-A fiery push-and-pull romance filled with chemistry, stubborn hearts, and unexpected tenderness. Jess and Cadoc’s battle for the upper hand keeps the tension high, making every victory and setback feel earned. Their journey to love is messy, emotional, and deeply satisfying, with strong sibling dynamics adding depth. Sparks fly, mistakes are made, but their hard-won happy ending is well worth the ride.
I received a free copy of this book. This is my honest opinion, freely shared.
761 reviews22 followers
March 4, 2025
Did I fall asleep reading Jess and Cadoc’s story? Yes I sure did…. As soon as I woke up, did I finish it before I start my day? Absolutely! If you love historical romances, this is a must read! The way Andrea writes these character’s and their story is so beautifully written that you feel you are in that era with them. I loved every page and didn’t want it to end! I’ll definitely be rereading this story again!
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