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The Emperors of London #1
Rogue in Red Velvet
If Connie loses her standing in society, she risks losing everything…except Alex.
When country widow Connstance Rattigan finds herself in a notorious London brothel instead of at the altar, only one person can save her from the auction block. Alex Vernon walked away from Connie once before, when he discovered her engagement. Now that her fiancé has betrayed her, Lord Ripley doesn’t intend to leave her again. But Connie has other ideas… She won’t marry him until her name is cleared.
Alex decides to make Connie’s wishes come true, but it’s not that easy, even with the help of his powerful relatives known as the Emperors of London.
When country widow Connstance Rattigan finds herself in a notorious London brothel instead of at the altar, only one person can save her from the auction block. Alex Vernon walked away from Connie once before, when he discovered her engagement. Now that her fiancé has betrayed her, Lord Ripley doesn’t intend to leave her again. But Connie has other ideas… She won’t marry him until her name is cleared.
Alex decides to make Connie’s wishes come true, but it’s not that easy, even with the help of his powerful relatives known as the Emperors of London.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2014
46 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Lynne Connolly
130 books312 followersI was born in Leicester, England, and lived in our cobbler’s shop with my parents and sister. It was an old house and most definitely haunted, but I didn’t find out until I left that my great uncle had hung himself in the living room! But I think our ghost might have been older than that. It was built on the site of the old Roman cemetery, and the land had been constantly inhabited, being in the centre of town. Then, when the council bought the house from us to build a road, my grandfather retired and my father went and worked for the Post Office. My mother was a sample machinist; that is, she worked with designers on the prototypes (models or samples) of garments. So I was very well dressed! We bought a relatively modern house in the country, and my mother was blissfully happy. It’s all very well living in a large old house, but it’s a dreadful task to keep it clean and warm!
My mother's side of the family are Romany gypsies, although sadly we haven't any of the old trailers that are so astonishingly beautiful. I was taught to read the Tarot cards, and I usually use two packs; the Rider pack for simple readings and the Crowley Thoth pack for the complex stuff.
I've always had an interest in the paranormal and it's been a delight to be able to put some of this into my novels.
My mother's side of the family are Romany gypsies, although sadly we haven't any of the old trailers that are so astonishingly beautiful. I was taught to read the Tarot cards, and I usually use two packs; the Rider pack for simple readings and the Crowley Thoth pack for the complex stuff.
I've always had an interest in the paranormal and it's been a delight to be able to put some of this into my novels.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 45 reviews
August 16, 2018
A Delightful Surprise!
I love HR, but these days I am so used to being irritated (at best) or infuriated (at worst) by what I read that I am jarred to not feel either of these emotions.
I didn't really want to read this book in the first place. But as the the first book of a series where I had a high recco for the second book from a discerning HR-lover and reviewer, I felt I'd hamper my enjoyment of book 2 by skipping book one. I'm very nervous of reading series book out of order too.
Well, Connolly has crafted a good story with absolutely no incorrect historical detail, anachronisms, 21st century behavior or attitudes or mishandling/incorrect of forms of address for members of the British peerage. Perhaps this last is because Connolly herself is (gasp) British.
Also, kudos to the author for writing a Georgian romance as well. So many romances are Regencies, I feel the Georgian period gets overlooked.
I really liked the H/h. They were both very likable, especially the H, whom I thought was a darling.
One thing I don't understand is why the word "rogue" was used in the title. There was nothing of the rogue about the H.
I highly recco this title and I will look into reading more of Connolly's HR's.
I love HR, but these days I am so used to being irritated (at best) or infuriated (at worst) by what I read that I am jarred to not feel either of these emotions.
I didn't really want to read this book in the first place. But as the the first book of a series where I had a high recco for the second book from a discerning HR-lover and reviewer, I felt I'd hamper my enjoyment of book 2 by skipping book one. I'm very nervous of reading series book out of order too.
Well, Connolly has crafted a good story with absolutely no incorrect historical detail, anachronisms, 21st century behavior or attitudes or mishandling/incorrect of forms of address for members of the British peerage. Perhaps this last is because Connolly herself is (gasp) British.
Also, kudos to the author for writing a Georgian romance as well. So many romances are Regencies, I feel the Georgian period gets overlooked.
I really liked the H/h. They were both very likable, especially the H, whom I thought was a darling.
One thing I don't understand is why the word "rogue" was used in the title. There was nothing of the rogue about the H.
I highly recco this title and I will look into reading more of Connolly's HR's.
September 6, 2016
I've given this a B- at AAR, so 3.5 stars
I was initially drawn to Rogue in Red Velvet because of its setting of London in the 1750s, which makes a nice change from my regular diet of Regency and Victorian set stories. It’s the first in a new series from Ms Connolly featuring the so-called Emperors of London , a group of men (all related) who are rich and powerful movers and shakers in society.
Lord Alexander Ripley is young, handsome, wealthy – and thus a prime target for marriage-minded young ladies and their equally determined mamas. Trying to hide from one particular young woman who can’t seem to take “no” for an answer, Alex stumbles into the library of the house he’s staying in and meets Mrs Constance Rattigan, the goddaughter of Lord Downholland. She is eschewing the house-party and is currently engaged in seeking out and cataloguing all the documentation she can find which relates to the family’s long history and traditions. Immediately struck by Connie’s good sense and complete lack of artifice, Alex offers his help, which Connie gratefully accepts – some of those books are bloody heavy!
Connie has noticed Alex before, of course, but being a widow of advanced years (she’s twenty-eight!) knows she’s never going to be able to do more than look. Even though she’s about to sign the contracts for her betrothal to Jasper Dankworth, her godmother’s nephew, she decides to live a little and enjoy Alex’s company for the brief period they can spend together. Alex proves to be a good companion - kind, intelligent and deeply honourable, in spite of his rakish reputation with the ladies.
Their brief idyll ends and Alex returns to London on the same day as Connie’s soon-to-be-betrothed arrives. Connie married for love the first time, but things did not work out at all well, so she has determined that her second marriage will be for more practical reasons. Dankworth is young and good-looking, although known to be a little unsteady. Lord and Lady Downholland think that marriage to Connie will settle him down, and are keen to promote the match, which will also keep their property in the family, as they have no children of their own and Connie is the closest thing they have to a daughter.
The contracts are signed and a date for the wedding is set. Connie travels to London in order to make her own preparations – but never reaches her destination. Dankworth’s need for money has become desperate and he has found himself a bigger prize, but breaking his contract with Connie will ruin him. So he comes up with a vile plan which will enable him to legally rid himself of any obligations. He has Connie drugged, abducted and taken to a Covent Garden brothel, there to be publicly auctioned off to the highest bidder.
This aspect of the plot may seem a little far-fetched at first glance, but it’s true that these sorts of auctions did take place at the time and that the “auctioneers” were less than scrupulous about the provenance of their “goods”.
While Alex is able to find Connie and get her away, the fact that she was seen in such a place will ruin her unless he can come up with a plan which will convince society that the very decent and proper Mrs Rattigan could not possibly have been there. In order to do this, he enlists the help of his cousin Julius, the Earl of Winterton – one of the leaders of society (who will, I imagine, have his own book at some point) as his notice cannot fail to lend consequence to Connie and make the gossips think twice. Alex is also determined to crush Jasper Dankworth for what he did – which will have the fortunate side effect of dealing a blow to the entire Dankworth family who, it seems, is engaged in some age-old rivalry with the “Emperors”.
I enjoyed the story, which moves along at a swift pace, and in which the author displays a considerable eye for historical detail in terms of the fashion and customs, and especially in her descriptions of the areas of London her characters visit. I was especially interested in her exploration of the function of the various Coffee Houses, many of which bore names which we still recognise today, and which in a way fulfil the same functions – such as Lloyds Coffeehouse, which sold insurance to cover the many deals made at the Cocoa Tree (the house Alex frequents) – and whose name today is recognised as one of the world’s largest purveyors of insurance.
Alex is a lovely beta-hero who is devoted to Connie from the outset and determined to do whatever he can to help her. This determination brings the pair into conflict as Connie feels that Alex is riding roughshod over her concerns and when he fails to consult her about some of the actions he takes against Dankworth, but fortunately, their falling out is short-lived and isn’t allowed to fester until it is blown out of all proportion.
Connie, too is a very likeable character and she and Alex have great chemistry, although I think her determination to refuse his offer of marriage is a little too drawn out. When he first proposes, she is still legally bound by her contract with Dankworth, so I can understand her refusal at that point. But once she’s free, she employs the “I’m not good enough for you, so I won’t marry you for your own good” argument, which is one I just don’t like. I see her reasoning, and can understand why she’d think that – but it didn’t work for me, and that, together with the fact that the ending seems rushed is the main reason my final rating is a B- and not higher.
I was also a little confused as to the reasons behind the feud between the Dankworths and the Emperors, as it was never fully explained. And even though I know Ms Connolly is an author who pays a great deal of attention to research and historical detail, there were times when I found the tone to be a little too modern. But neither of those things detracted from my enjoyment of the story, which is enjoyable and well-written. Rogue in Red Velvet is a good start to what promises to be an entertaining series, and I will certainly be looking out for the next book when it’s released in October.
I was initially drawn to Rogue in Red Velvet because of its setting of London in the 1750s, which makes a nice change from my regular diet of Regency and Victorian set stories. It’s the first in a new series from Ms Connolly featuring the so-called Emperors of London , a group of men (all related) who are rich and powerful movers and shakers in society.
Lord Alexander Ripley is young, handsome, wealthy – and thus a prime target for marriage-minded young ladies and their equally determined mamas. Trying to hide from one particular young woman who can’t seem to take “no” for an answer, Alex stumbles into the library of the house he’s staying in and meets Mrs Constance Rattigan, the goddaughter of Lord Downholland. She is eschewing the house-party and is currently engaged in seeking out and cataloguing all the documentation she can find which relates to the family’s long history and traditions. Immediately struck by Connie’s good sense and complete lack of artifice, Alex offers his help, which Connie gratefully accepts – some of those books are bloody heavy!
Connie has noticed Alex before, of course, but being a widow of advanced years (she’s twenty-eight!) knows she’s never going to be able to do more than look. Even though she’s about to sign the contracts for her betrothal to Jasper Dankworth, her godmother’s nephew, she decides to live a little and enjoy Alex’s company for the brief period they can spend together. Alex proves to be a good companion - kind, intelligent and deeply honourable, in spite of his rakish reputation with the ladies.
Their brief idyll ends and Alex returns to London on the same day as Connie’s soon-to-be-betrothed arrives. Connie married for love the first time, but things did not work out at all well, so she has determined that her second marriage will be for more practical reasons. Dankworth is young and good-looking, although known to be a little unsteady. Lord and Lady Downholland think that marriage to Connie will settle him down, and are keen to promote the match, which will also keep their property in the family, as they have no children of their own and Connie is the closest thing they have to a daughter.
The contracts are signed and a date for the wedding is set. Connie travels to London in order to make her own preparations – but never reaches her destination. Dankworth’s need for money has become desperate and he has found himself a bigger prize, but breaking his contract with Connie will ruin him. So he comes up with a vile plan which will enable him to legally rid himself of any obligations. He has Connie drugged, abducted and taken to a Covent Garden brothel, there to be publicly auctioned off to the highest bidder.
This aspect of the plot may seem a little far-fetched at first glance, but it’s true that these sorts of auctions did take place at the time and that the “auctioneers” were less than scrupulous about the provenance of their “goods”.
While Alex is able to find Connie and get her away, the fact that she was seen in such a place will ruin her unless he can come up with a plan which will convince society that the very decent and proper Mrs Rattigan could not possibly have been there. In order to do this, he enlists the help of his cousin Julius, the Earl of Winterton – one of the leaders of society (who will, I imagine, have his own book at some point) as his notice cannot fail to lend consequence to Connie and make the gossips think twice. Alex is also determined to crush Jasper Dankworth for what he did – which will have the fortunate side effect of dealing a blow to the entire Dankworth family who, it seems, is engaged in some age-old rivalry with the “Emperors”.
I enjoyed the story, which moves along at a swift pace, and in which the author displays a considerable eye for historical detail in terms of the fashion and customs, and especially in her descriptions of the areas of London her characters visit. I was especially interested in her exploration of the function of the various Coffee Houses, many of which bore names which we still recognise today, and which in a way fulfil the same functions – such as Lloyds Coffeehouse, which sold insurance to cover the many deals made at the Cocoa Tree (the house Alex frequents) – and whose name today is recognised as one of the world’s largest purveyors of insurance.
Alex is a lovely beta-hero who is devoted to Connie from the outset and determined to do whatever he can to help her. This determination brings the pair into conflict as Connie feels that Alex is riding roughshod over her concerns and when he fails to consult her about some of the actions he takes against Dankworth, but fortunately, their falling out is short-lived and isn’t allowed to fester until it is blown out of all proportion.
Connie, too is a very likeable character and she and Alex have great chemistry, although I think her determination to refuse his offer of marriage is a little too drawn out. When he first proposes, she is still legally bound by her contract with Dankworth, so I can understand her refusal at that point. But once she’s free, she employs the “I’m not good enough for you, so I won’t marry you for your own good” argument, which is one I just don’t like. I see her reasoning, and can understand why she’d think that – but it didn’t work for me, and that, together with the fact that the ending seems rushed is the main reason my final rating is a B- and not higher.
I was also a little confused as to the reasons behind the feud between the Dankworths and the Emperors, as it was never fully explained. And even though I know Ms Connolly is an author who pays a great deal of attention to research and historical detail, there were times when I found the tone to be a little too modern. But neither of those things detracted from my enjoyment of the story, which is enjoyable and well-written. Rogue in Red Velvet is a good start to what promises to be an entertaining series, and I will certainly be looking out for the next book when it’s released in October.
October 4, 2015
Meh.
The hero is likable but towards the end I felt he was speaking like a woman. I felt like a man wouldn't say such things. I also didn't like how clinical he was during sex, decribing parts of the body as though he were a doctor.
I liked the heronie in the beginning, but towards the end I felt like her excuses for not marrying the hero were weak.
I also think the plot had too many unresolved issues. Perhaps too many off shoots that the story could take but didn't.
Lastly I felt the conflicts were not strong enough, and resolved to easily.
And I must not forget how horrible the editing is. I felt lost many times and found myself scratching my head thinking "what the hell did they mean?" There were more than a number of times that the dialouge was choppy. The characters jumped topics speaking so "matter of factly" during what should have been emotional conversations.
This could have been a good book, but it really feel short. And like I always say, I am a pretty forgiving reviewer.
The hero is likable but towards the end I felt he was speaking like a woman. I felt like a man wouldn't say such things. I also didn't like how clinical he was during sex, decribing parts of the body as though he were a doctor.
I liked the heronie in the beginning, but towards the end I felt like her excuses for not marrying the hero were weak.
I also think the plot had too many unresolved issues. Perhaps too many off shoots that the story could take but didn't.
Lastly I felt the conflicts were not strong enough, and resolved to easily.
And I must not forget how horrible the editing is. I felt lost many times and found myself scratching my head thinking "what the hell did they mean?" There were more than a number of times that the dialouge was choppy. The characters jumped topics speaking so "matter of factly" during what should have been emotional conversations.
This could have been a good book, but it really feel short. And like I always say, I am a pretty forgiving reviewer.
September 21, 2014
Previously reviewed on The Good, The Bad and The Unread:
Disclaimer: I actually read and enjoyed an early draft of this novel, back when some of the characters were going by different names and not all the subplots were in place. I've also had email discussions with Lynne Connolly about her plans to write one or more novels set around the time of the Jacobites. So when I realised that the novel that I'd offered to review actually contained elements of both, I was very keen to see how well she'd pulled the two together.
The first book in a new series is always challenging for both reader and author, with lots of scene-setting, character introductions, and establishing of recurring themes along with plot-threads that might not come to fruition until several books in the future. Then on top of all that, there's the need for a gripping main plot that can be set up and resolved in the course of a single novel, leaving the reader both satisfied that a conclusion has been reached and keen to revisit the characters and setting in order to find out more about both.
For the most part, Rogue in Red Velvet succeeds in all those objectives. I'd have liked to have seen more of Alex and Connie getting to know each other, prior to making their separate journeys to London, and while the rumblings of political undercurrents were probably sufficient for most readers, I could have done with more. On the other hand, once we're in London, the plot moves along very smoothly from a writing-craft point of view, if not in terms of how the characters would view things (there are ups and downs aplenty for them!). We also get to see enough secondary characters, especially those members of Alex's extended family who are called upon to help him and Connie out of their difficulties, to want to know more about all of them in subsequent stories without feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of names and personalities that have to be remembered.
Connie's fiancé makes for an excellent villain, and I'm equally keen to find out more about others in his family and about just what plots and machinations they all have brewing. Hopefully, later books will dig more into the political and social rivalries of the time, as I've found with the author's other Georgian romances.
All in all, a good solid start to a new series, and a story that makes me anxious to know when the second in the series is due out.
Disclaimer: I actually read and enjoyed an early draft of this novel, back when some of the characters were going by different names and not all the subplots were in place. I've also had email discussions with Lynne Connolly about her plans to write one or more novels set around the time of the Jacobites. So when I realised that the novel that I'd offered to review actually contained elements of both, I was very keen to see how well she'd pulled the two together.
The first book in a new series is always challenging for both reader and author, with lots of scene-setting, character introductions, and establishing of recurring themes along with plot-threads that might not come to fruition until several books in the future. Then on top of all that, there's the need for a gripping main plot that can be set up and resolved in the course of a single novel, leaving the reader both satisfied that a conclusion has been reached and keen to revisit the characters and setting in order to find out more about both.
For the most part, Rogue in Red Velvet succeeds in all those objectives. I'd have liked to have seen more of Alex and Connie getting to know each other, prior to making their separate journeys to London, and while the rumblings of political undercurrents were probably sufficient for most readers, I could have done with more. On the other hand, once we're in London, the plot moves along very smoothly from a writing-craft point of view, if not in terms of how the characters would view things (there are ups and downs aplenty for them!). We also get to see enough secondary characters, especially those members of Alex's extended family who are called upon to help him and Connie out of their difficulties, to want to know more about all of them in subsequent stories without feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of names and personalities that have to be remembered.
Connie's fiancé makes for an excellent villain, and I'm equally keen to find out more about others in his family and about just what plots and machinations they all have brewing. Hopefully, later books will dig more into the political and social rivalries of the time, as I've found with the author's other Georgian romances.
All in all, a good solid start to a new series, and a story that makes me anxious to know when the second in the series is due out.
April 18, 2016
l recently had an ARC of the 5th book of the Emperors of London series by Lynne Connolly -- Dilemma In Yellow Silk and I loved it so much that I wanted to go back and read the rest of the series.
The Emperors of London are a bunch of cousins who are all named for famous emperors -- even the girls have a female version of the name. There is Maximilian, Julius, Marcus Aurelius, etc. They are all powerful people and they are great friends (think Cynsters).
This is book one and is the story of Alexander Vernon and Constance Rattigan.
I really liked Alexander who is the heir to an Earldom. It is refreshing that there isn't a traumatic childhood in his past, nor issues with his father, mother, siblings or cousins. He is just a really sweet, loving man who is constantly under siege from matchmaking-mama's and their daughters.
I also liked Constance who is a quiet country widow who had a traumatic first marriage. She agrees to an arranged marriage with the man who is the heir to her godparents. She certainly feels no passion for him, but expects they'll have a 'peaceful' life.
It is sad that she is already spoken for before she meets Alexander. It is even sadder that her betrothed is the villain in the story and he's a real heinous gentleman. I can't think of even one redeeming quality he has. What he does to Constance is absolutely unforgivable.
To me, this is a book that begs for an epilogue. Much of the last several scenes talked about having children and Constance's fear that she cannot get pregnant. An epilogue 6 months or a year out from this story showing her either expecting or having just delivered a child would have been a great addition to the story. It would also be nice to see a further update on what happens to the villain. It would be nice to hear that he was captured by head hunters and his bones were found strung upside down and covered with honey - with his nose in an army ant bed (in case you didn't notice -- I didn't like him)
So -- another complaint -- in general. Why do the books today have so many errors in them? This one was so full of them that it sometimes deflected my concentration from the story. Simple things like using the wrong pronoun -- like using his when it should have been her.
The Emperors of London are a bunch of cousins who are all named for famous emperors -- even the girls have a female version of the name. There is Maximilian, Julius, Marcus Aurelius, etc. They are all powerful people and they are great friends (think Cynsters).
This is book one and is the story of Alexander Vernon and Constance Rattigan.
I really liked Alexander who is the heir to an Earldom. It is refreshing that there isn't a traumatic childhood in his past, nor issues with his father, mother, siblings or cousins. He is just a really sweet, loving man who is constantly under siege from matchmaking-mama's and their daughters.
I also liked Constance who is a quiet country widow who had a traumatic first marriage. She agrees to an arranged marriage with the man who is the heir to her godparents. She certainly feels no passion for him, but expects they'll have a 'peaceful' life.
It is sad that she is already spoken for before she meets Alexander. It is even sadder that her betrothed is the villain in the story and he's a real heinous gentleman. I can't think of even one redeeming quality he has. What he does to Constance is absolutely unforgivable.
To me, this is a book that begs for an epilogue. Much of the last several scenes talked about having children and Constance's fear that she cannot get pregnant. An epilogue 6 months or a year out from this story showing her either expecting or having just delivered a child would have been a great addition to the story. It would also be nice to see a further update on what happens to the villain. It would be nice to hear that he was captured by head hunters and his bones were found strung upside down and covered with honey - with his nose in an army ant bed (in case you didn't notice -- I didn't like him)
So -- another complaint -- in general. Why do the books today have so many errors in them? This one was so full of them that it sometimes deflected my concentration from the story. Simple things like using the wrong pronoun -- like using his when it should have been her.
July 7, 2014
My Rating: 4.5/5
A thoroughly sweet historical romance, Rogue in Red Velvet was a lovely read. I really liked this book. It was a lighter read that I enjoyed from start to finish.
Connie was a likable heroine. She was strong enough to endure a scandal without backing down and determined not to enter a marriage without equal footing. My only issue with her was that I don't get why she was so hung up on saying yes to Alex considering her rushed first marriage and her practical almost-second marriage. It's not like she didn't want to get married, so I didn't get what her problem was with getting married to a man she actually liked. Especially because the solution to her conditions turned out to be oddly easy. Regardless, I still liked her.
Alex was a total sweetie. He was utterly devoted to Connie, determined to help her and win her over. And, he was also a genuinely kind man with a thoroughly honorable character. I thought he was absolutely adorable.
The romance was lovely. Even with Connie's hesitance, their feelings for each other were never in doubt. And, they had some hot chemistry between them. I thought they were a great couple.
The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. My one issue was that, like I mentioned before, the solutions to Connie's problems were strangely simple and a bit anti-climatic. However, I still enjoyed the story and the ending was perfect.
Rogue in Red Velvet was a wonderful historical romance that I really liked. It was a sweet, enjoyable read. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
A thoroughly sweet historical romance, Rogue in Red Velvet was a lovely read. I really liked this book. It was a lighter read that I enjoyed from start to finish.
Connie was a likable heroine. She was strong enough to endure a scandal without backing down and determined not to enter a marriage without equal footing. My only issue with her was that I don't get why she was so hung up on saying yes to Alex considering her rushed first marriage and her practical almost-second marriage. It's not like she didn't want to get married, so I didn't get what her problem was with getting married to a man she actually liked. Especially because the solution to her conditions turned out to be oddly easy. Regardless, I still liked her.
Alex was a total sweetie. He was utterly devoted to Connie, determined to help her and win her over. And, he was also a genuinely kind man with a thoroughly honorable character. I thought he was absolutely adorable.
The romance was lovely. Even with Connie's hesitance, their feelings for each other were never in doubt. And, they had some hot chemistry between them. I thought they were a great couple.
The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. My one issue was that, like I mentioned before, the solutions to Connie's problems were strangely simple and a bit anti-climatic. However, I still enjoyed the story and the ending was perfect.
Rogue in Red Velvet was a wonderful historical romance that I really liked. It was a sweet, enjoyable read. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
July 22, 2014
I'am very picky on the type of Historical romances I read, but I really enjoyed this book. I felt it was very well written with great detail. Connie is a widow and newly engaged when she runs into Alex, well he runs into her, I really enjoyed how they interact with each other, how they start this frienship of sorts. Alex returns to London and Connie awaits her wedding day. Connie receiving word of her fiance is tricked into going to London where she is betrayed by her fiance Jasper and her reputation is ruined and I mean ruined, well in those times yes. I was shocked how things took place here, I couldn't believe this was happening to her, well it could of gone worse for Connie, but Alex was able to save her.
Alex really is a good man, he stepped up and saved her and took care of her, I really liked Alex, he was not arrogant or full of himself, I thought he might be. Connie was also a good woman, she did not throw herself at Alex and expect him to help and fix all her problems, she was headstrong and brave. She did irritate me a bit with her refusal to be with Alex, she loved him, wanting to be with him but kept turning him down!! Alex really fought for Connie, he did not give up, I worried she would never except him. I really enjoyed this love story and the hot love scenes too!!
Was gifted this ARC by Netgalley for a honest review, thank you.
October 2, 2016
I love historical romance. I haven't read very many different authors in this genre. Kathleen Woodiwiss is my favorite. This is the first time I have read Lynne and I'm so glad I finally did. I loved this story. I love the characters. I didn't want the story to end. I'll be reading more of her books. (I was lucky enough to meet her at RT15 Dallas. She is quite lovely and hilariously fun to talk to!)
April 17, 2020
A damsel in serious distress, a hero who uses society for good, an evil nemesis afoot & lots of much needed gasps, moans plus screams to turn up the furnace of this Georgian romance!
Mrs. Connstance Rattingam is a simple country widow who had a sad loveless marriage, but she is lucky to have her Godparents, Lord & Lady Downholland, who have embraced her after her Father's death. She is a sensible woman with a brain, has made money for her own estate, loves to help her Godfather with all his "History of his Family" projects & has even agreed to marry his heir, Jasper Dankworth. All she has to do is busy herself to avoid the house party plus stop looking & falling for the dashing Lord Ripley!
Alex Vernon, Baron of Ripley, is from a large, loving, mega BOOCOO galore, influential & powerful family also he is the heir to the Earl of Leverton. His BF is his cousin Julius, who is the heir to the Duke of Kirkburton plus they are as thick as thieves & always HAVE ONE ANOTHER'S BACK!! Alex had a close call with the relentless Miss Louisa Stobart, as she cornered him ALONE, ask him to pin her ripped train & was UNEXPECTEDLY interrupted by her mom while he was kneeling, but he nicely refused her hand, so that is how he finds himself being STALKED by Miss Louisa at this country house party!
So we have a dusty, dirt & unmade Connie looking up to see the dazzling face of Alex as he slams the door of the library to avoid his stalker. He needs a plan to distance his stalker also all the matchmaking mamas of this house party & if he can send some elusive time with the delicious Mrs. Rattingan, all the better. As his stalker enters the library, he pleads with his eyes, so Connie takes pity on him, ropes him into helping her with the dust & sometimes heavy family history books. Over many days, they grow close, as Connie talks a lot & even introduces her foot to her mouth many times!! Alex actually finds a charming & smart female that totally makes him "burn for any type of human contact", but they are from 2 different world. So only 1 PANTIE DROPPING kiss is given, as he leaves for London & she awaits her soon-to-be-betrothal Jasper. Jasper is a dastardly evil man as he plans to get the money & forget the girl by steal Connie's inheritance by evoking the morality clause of the marriage contract via selling her in a brothel the really CHEAP brothel she knows nothing about!! See Jasper is dastardly & has a despicable heart, too.
Connie goes to London, travels via public coach (in 1700, that is literally HADES on wheels), drugged, abducted, doped for days & standing on an auction block. Have no fear because Alex is there to save the day & the damsel, with help from Connie's worried maid, a £50 & £5,000 bid (by guess Connie's amount) the loveable & super helpful Madame of the "not cheap" premier brothel, as she sanitizes the neighbor of the said CHEAP brothel by selling a it. Heavenly sleeping Connie cones face to face with Alex & HELLO, finally she gets some screaming orgasms! He begs her to marry him, but she refuses to bring him or his family down by her ultimate& untimely SHAME!! So they have to UNITE to save her reputation, as rumors of her brothel episode explodes & make plans to make the despicable Jasper PAY!! So Alex ropes in his Cousin Julius to help, makes Connie reappear as Julius' sweet sister, Helene, companion, a glorious wardrobe is FOUND (a girl has got to look her part)!! Alex chats about Jasper's crappy character to any & everyone who will hear (London lives to this day to GOSSIP), have society see & accept Connie as she really is as Alex is wooing her by his romantic deeds, as he puts the final nail in Jasper's coffin! Can Alex prove to Connie that she is good enough for him? Is Connie even going to feel worthy of Alex's love? Will London society accept her? Can she accept her life in society? Can I "beotch slap" the stalker Louisa? But most importantly, does Jasper get his a$$ kicked by karma?
This my first romance by Ms. Connolly & she can weave a good tale full of the unexpected! The beginning was a little slow as Mizz Connolly added all the ducks in a row, but it was so worth it. Connie was a no nonsense & no fuss kinda heroine & I LOVED her mind, her "speak & think later" mouth & how she stood up for herself, but she need to get seriously get laid, plus needed her 1st orgasm ASAP! Alex was raised with a silver spoon, but he had a true sense of right & wrong plus his family was his source of inner strength! Mizz Connolly made her h/h just click, become fast friends & they actually had funny sex. I am not really a fan of Georgian era romances because to me is all overdone fashion, with hoops, stomachers, separate bodices, powdered wigs or hair & with male walking around with bejeweled swords. Its just seems too ridiculous to me, but Mizz Connolly took all my negatives of fashion & made it a SPARKLY part of the flowing story!! I actually enjoyed all of Mizz Connolly's wardrobe changes & she even had a action paced bejeweled sword fight! Now all romances need the sizzle & Mizz Connolly started up her 18 wheeler of shivers & quivers & left burned rubber & fresh scorch marks on my Kindle, but she finally got her heroine those much needed SCREAMING ORGASMS!! This story had a good vs evil society fell to it & Mizz Connolly showed how society can actually be GOOD & helpful instead of hurtful, which was an interesting twist for me. She also had a unique cast of "The Emperors & a few Expresses" & I can't wait to read Julius & Helene stories, too. Mizz Connolly may have started this romance a little slow, but she blewup many of my Georgian taboos, made me love 1700s ridiculous fashion, fall in love with her unique & diverse characters, causes a few tears, many full belly laughs & delivered pure eroticism! So she receives my score of 4 fingers up & 7 toes for this "I couldn't put it down" romance & BRING ON some more Lynne Connolly reads!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
Mrs. Connstance Rattingam is a simple country widow who had a sad loveless marriage, but she is lucky to have her Godparents, Lord & Lady Downholland, who have embraced her after her Father's death. She is a sensible woman with a brain, has made money for her own estate, loves to help her Godfather with all his "History of his Family" projects & has even agreed to marry his heir, Jasper Dankworth. All she has to do is busy herself to avoid the house party plus stop looking & falling for the dashing Lord Ripley!
Alex Vernon, Baron of Ripley, is from a large, loving, mega BOOCOO galore, influential & powerful family also he is the heir to the Earl of Leverton. His BF is his cousin Julius, who is the heir to the Duke of Kirkburton plus they are as thick as thieves & always HAVE ONE ANOTHER'S BACK!! Alex had a close call with the relentless Miss Louisa Stobart, as she cornered him ALONE, ask him to pin her ripped train & was UNEXPECTEDLY interrupted by her mom while he was kneeling, but he nicely refused her hand, so that is how he finds himself being STALKED by Miss Louisa at this country house party!
So we have a dusty, dirt & unmade Connie looking up to see the dazzling face of Alex as he slams the door of the library to avoid his stalker. He needs a plan to distance his stalker also all the matchmaking mamas of this house party & if he can send some elusive time with the delicious Mrs. Rattingan, all the better. As his stalker enters the library, he pleads with his eyes, so Connie takes pity on him, ropes him into helping her with the dust & sometimes heavy family history books. Over many days, they grow close, as Connie talks a lot & even introduces her foot to her mouth many times!! Alex actually finds a charming & smart female that totally makes him "burn for any type of human contact", but they are from 2 different world. So only 1 PANTIE DROPPING kiss is given, as he leaves for London & she awaits her soon-to-be-betrothal Jasper. Jasper is a dastardly evil man as he plans to get the money & forget the girl by steal Connie's inheritance by evoking the morality clause of the marriage contract via selling her in a brothel the really CHEAP brothel she knows nothing about!! See Jasper is dastardly & has a despicable heart, too.
Connie goes to London, travels via public coach (in 1700, that is literally HADES on wheels), drugged, abducted, doped for days & standing on an auction block. Have no fear because Alex is there to save the day & the damsel, with help from Connie's worried maid, a £50 & £5,000 bid (by guess Connie's amount) the loveable & super helpful Madame of the "not cheap" premier brothel, as she sanitizes the neighbor of the said CHEAP brothel by selling a it. Heavenly sleeping Connie cones face to face with Alex & HELLO, finally she gets some screaming orgasms! He begs her to marry him, but she refuses to bring him or his family down by her ultimate& untimely SHAME!! So they have to UNITE to save her reputation, as rumors of her brothel episode explodes & make plans to make the despicable Jasper PAY!! So Alex ropes in his Cousin Julius to help, makes Connie reappear as Julius' sweet sister, Helene, companion, a glorious wardrobe is FOUND (a girl has got to look her part)!! Alex chats about Jasper's crappy character to any & everyone who will hear (London lives to this day to GOSSIP), have society see & accept Connie as she really is as Alex is wooing her by his romantic deeds, as he puts the final nail in Jasper's coffin! Can Alex prove to Connie that she is good enough for him? Is Connie even going to feel worthy of Alex's love? Will London society accept her? Can she accept her life in society? Can I "beotch slap" the stalker Louisa? But most importantly, does Jasper get his a$$ kicked by karma?
This my first romance by Ms. Connolly & she can weave a good tale full of the unexpected! The beginning was a little slow as Mizz Connolly added all the ducks in a row, but it was so worth it. Connie was a no nonsense & no fuss kinda heroine & I LOVED her mind, her "speak & think later" mouth & how she stood up for herself, but she need to get seriously get laid, plus needed her 1st orgasm ASAP! Alex was raised with a silver spoon, but he had a true sense of right & wrong plus his family was his source of inner strength! Mizz Connolly made her h/h just click, become fast friends & they actually had funny sex. I am not really a fan of Georgian era romances because to me is all overdone fashion, with hoops, stomachers, separate bodices, powdered wigs or hair & with male walking around with bejeweled swords. Its just seems too ridiculous to me, but Mizz Connolly took all my negatives of fashion & made it a SPARKLY part of the flowing story!! I actually enjoyed all of Mizz Connolly's wardrobe changes & she even had a action paced bejeweled sword fight! Now all romances need the sizzle & Mizz Connolly started up her 18 wheeler of shivers & quivers & left burned rubber & fresh scorch marks on my Kindle, but she finally got her heroine those much needed SCREAMING ORGASMS!! This story had a good vs evil society fell to it & Mizz Connolly showed how society can actually be GOOD & helpful instead of hurtful, which was an interesting twist for me. She also had a unique cast of "The Emperors & a few Expresses" & I can't wait to read Julius & Helene stories, too. Mizz Connolly may have started this romance a little slow, but she blewup many of my Georgian taboos, made me love 1700s ridiculous fashion, fall in love with her unique & diverse characters, causes a few tears, many full belly laughs & delivered pure eroticism! So she receives my score of 4 fingers up & 7 toes for this "I couldn't put it down" romance & BRING ON some more Lynne Connolly reads!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2014
What an intricate and intriguing novel. I really enjoyed reading how they were going to get out of the situation, especially when Connie's reputation was completely blackened. The one thing I was disappointed about was the fact that it was so predictable. As soon as Connie told Alex that he wasn't allowed to do anything without her approval, I knew what was going to happen. It didn't detract from the novel, or make it any less fun to read, but it did make me wish that it had been left out. There was enough other issues going on that it could have just been removed.
None-the-less, the characters turned out to be not only fun and smart, but a pleasure to read. I can't wait for the next novel!
None-the-less, the characters turned out to be not only fun and smart, but a pleasure to read. I can't wait for the next novel!
July 14, 2014
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This story was very unique and heart warming. I know we as women all long for a hero to ride to the rescue and Alex could rescue me anytime. I really loved this book!
September 3, 2014
This was quit a likeable book. The characters all worked really well together and it was just a nice sweet story. Great book and I would happily recommend it to my friends.
August 5, 2014
Rated 3.5
April 14, 2017
Library Kindle e-book
November 29, 2024
As a vehicle of escapism, Rogue in Red Velvet was everything I expected it to be in order to give me the reprieve from reality I needed at the time.
In most cases, I'd say an overly familiar and well-trodden narrative makes for a predictable read. The fact that most historical romance novels seem to follow the same general structure, is bound to whatever ridged social expectation its setting imposes on its characters and there seemingly is a sort of limited number of methods and reasons people transition into becoming lovers puts most of these kind of books at risk of becoming very dull in its repetitiveness very quickly.
But when it came to Rogue in Red Velvet, I was counting on a familiar narrative.
This book was both a calculated and an impulse purchase. Calculated because at the time I decided to add a historical romance novel to my reading list, most of the texts I was consuming simultaneously were weighing on my mental state, both due to many's heavier subject matter and also my real life suddenly getting incredibly hard. Levity became a necessity, particularly ones with happily ever afters.
It was also an impulse pick because despite owning several historical and contemporary romance book options, including a number of rereads, I still went out and bought a whole new book. I didn't feel a reread would provide the distraction I wanted and I didn't trust any of the potential picks available to be what I needed. I wanted to be as far away from "today" as possible. So I went with a novel from a series where I've previously read an installment from, relying on familiarity to make the book easy for me to consume with only a little actual thinking utilized.
I just didn't want yet another book that made me work for the payoff. I wanted a book that spoon-fed dessert to me.
Credit where credit is due, there were a number of circumstances that differentiated it from some of the other historical romances I've previously read, allowing for enough novelty to let it stand in its own merit. For starters, it is set in the Georgian era, and so had to pay homage the fashion that coincided with it, from powdered hair and wigs to panniers and greatcoats. Though it did so seemingly begrudgingly at times given how often it said its primary characters "didn't prefer" this or that beauty standard.
Another was the unique (for me) situation Lynne Connolly conjured up for her main hero and heroine that had to be overcome for them to realize their happily ever after. While it was a little more than a bit contrived and melodramatic, it was creative, even though it was something of an outlandish dilemma that doesn't really pass many smell tests.
But that's OK. The things I would usually cite as shortcomings were the things I sought for when I selected this book. Which just goes to show almost everything has a place and time in which it can serve you and your wants. It just depends on how you choose to perceive the story at the time of reading.
And overlooking some narrative or character flaws for the sake of giving myself over to pleasure and enjoyment for the sake of escapism allowed for a brief distraction from what reigned in my real life at the time. And for that, I'm grateful.
In most cases, I'd say an overly familiar and well-trodden narrative makes for a predictable read. The fact that most historical romance novels seem to follow the same general structure, is bound to whatever ridged social expectation its setting imposes on its characters and there seemingly is a sort of limited number of methods and reasons people transition into becoming lovers puts most of these kind of books at risk of becoming very dull in its repetitiveness very quickly.
But when it came to Rogue in Red Velvet, I was counting on a familiar narrative.
This book was both a calculated and an impulse purchase. Calculated because at the time I decided to add a historical romance novel to my reading list, most of the texts I was consuming simultaneously were weighing on my mental state, both due to many's heavier subject matter and also my real life suddenly getting incredibly hard. Levity became a necessity, particularly ones with happily ever afters.
It was also an impulse pick because despite owning several historical and contemporary romance book options, including a number of rereads, I still went out and bought a whole new book. I didn't feel a reread would provide the distraction I wanted and I didn't trust any of the potential picks available to be what I needed. I wanted to be as far away from "today" as possible. So I went with a novel from a series where I've previously read an installment from, relying on familiarity to make the book easy for me to consume with only a little actual thinking utilized.
I just didn't want yet another book that made me work for the payoff. I wanted a book that spoon-fed dessert to me.
Credit where credit is due, there were a number of circumstances that differentiated it from some of the other historical romances I've previously read, allowing for enough novelty to let it stand in its own merit. For starters, it is set in the Georgian era, and so had to pay homage the fashion that coincided with it, from powdered hair and wigs to panniers and greatcoats. Though it did so seemingly begrudgingly at times given how often it said its primary characters "didn't prefer" this or that beauty standard.
Another was the unique (for me) situation Lynne Connolly conjured up for her main hero and heroine that had to be overcome for them to realize their happily ever after. While it was a little more than a bit contrived and melodramatic, it was creative, even though it was something of an outlandish dilemma that doesn't really pass many smell tests.
But that's OK. The things I would usually cite as shortcomings were the things I sought for when I selected this book. Which just goes to show almost everything has a place and time in which it can serve you and your wants. It just depends on how you choose to perceive the story at the time of reading.
And overlooking some narrative or character flaws for the sake of giving myself over to pleasure and enjoyment for the sake of escapism allowed for a brief distraction from what reigned in my real life at the time. And for that, I'm grateful.
Read
July 20, 2023I almost feel like I should count this as a bookclub read, because for a few years I was in a virtual book group with the author - The European Romance Trading Group. It was in the early years of my discovery of the genre and I was very grateful to the group for the suggestions, the trades and loans. Eventually the group was too active for me to keep pace, and I think it did disband at some point.
I've read a few of Lynne Connolly's Richard and Rose series which I enjoyed very much. (and Chemistry of Evil).
I have recently gained access to a virtual library, which makes it easier (financially) for me to indulge. I downloaded this one just before leaving on a train journey. It's quite different from the Richard and Rose books as I remember them, but it was a fun read nonetheless. I enjoyed the heroine's strong sense of self and the rogue came to heel nicely!
I look forward to borrowing more from the library as it's been too expensive for me to buy all the books I want to read.
I've read a few of Lynne Connolly's Richard and Rose series which I enjoyed very much. (and Chemistry of Evil).
I have recently gained access to a virtual library, which makes it easier (financially) for me to indulge. I downloaded this one just before leaving on a train journey. It's quite different from the Richard and Rose books as I remember them, but it was a fun read nonetheless. I enjoyed the heroine's strong sense of self and the rogue came to heel nicely!
I look forward to borrowing more from the library as it's been too expensive for me to buy all the books I want to read.
May 28, 2017
This is the first book in the series. I found the story unbelievable except for the setting and descriptions. The idea that the heroine who has been auctioned in a brothel could be rehabilitated seemed a bit stretched. I liked the characterization of the hero and heroine. The heroine seemed a bit too modern for that time. This is the second book I have read of this author and I find the sexually explicit scenes distracting from the main story. I keep skipping every few pages. In this one she at least let the plot actually take off before the scenes take place. All that mental lusting and sexual action gets very boring and repetitive. I would rather have some romance instead like when the hero tried to match his attire to the heroine's dress.
February 6, 2018
Historical English romance with a country bred widowed gentlewoman who is ready to re-marry but has engaged herself to the wrong man. Stand alone read with a cute HEA.
Mrs. Constance Rattigan is about to be engaged when she finds herself falling in love with a guest at her uncle's house party, but does her duty to her family and gets out of the situation to engage herself to an evil guy. Constance is saved from kidnapping/sex slave auction by her would be lover, Alex Vernon. Alex decides that this time they are going to have an affair and perhaps more as she is introduced into London high society. There is a crazy guy doing his best to ruin Constance's reputation, but only ruins his own.
Kind of a quick read with the usual happy ending.
226 pages and kindle freebie
2 stars
Mrs. Constance Rattigan is about to be engaged when she finds herself falling in love with a guest at her uncle's house party, but does her duty to her family and gets out of the situation to engage herself to an evil guy. Constance is saved from kidnapping/sex slave auction by her would be lover, Alex Vernon. Alex decides that this time they are going to have an affair and perhaps more as she is introduced into London high society. There is a crazy guy doing his best to ruin Constance's reputation, but only ruins his own.
Kind of a quick read with the usual happy ending.
226 pages and kindle freebie
2 stars
December 29, 2024
It’s refreshing to have a HR where the Hero is NOT a rogue or a rake (despite the poorly-chosen title) and the heroine isn’t a scared virgin (since she’s a level-headed widow). And I enjoyed the plot up through the couple days after they escaped the brothel.
But that’s where it went downhill. The conflict between the H and h didn’t make any sense —- why on Earth would she not marry this prince and accept his protection?! Mind boggling. It also grew more boring and I found myself skimming through parts.
Also — the editing was pretty bad. Many instances of typos or commas that were in weird places.
But that’s where it went downhill. The conflict between the H and h didn’t make any sense —- why on Earth would she not marry this prince and accept his protection?! Mind boggling. It also grew more boring and I found myself skimming through parts.
Also — the editing was pretty bad. Many instances of typos or commas that were in weird places.
October 12, 2021
Reasonable
A good story and plot but very smutty and totally unnecessary additionally it lacked proof reading so many unnecessary errors which confused everything, some important information could have been enlarged and explained better
A good story and plot but very smutty and totally unnecessary additionally it lacked proof reading so many unnecessary errors which confused everything, some important information could have been enlarged and explained better
February 24, 2019
Excellent read. Great character development. Intriguing plot.
July 20, 2020
3.5 stars
August 4, 2015
This is an amazing story of Love betrayal and Kidnapping We meet the 2 at a house Party in the country, Connie ( a widow who was betrayed at her first marriage the heroine and Alex , Lord Ripley. They have an instant attraction to each other and Connie is going to be wed to another ( Jasper) . They flirt and Kiss, it is sizzling .Connie is at her godparents home to do some inventory and she is going to all the rooms of the house to bring down the books and papers. She is hiding also from the other London Ladies because she doesn't see herself as worthy to join the other ladies. Alex (Lord Ripley helps her and that is where the sizzle starts. They have a passionate Kiss and then he leaves for London because he can't control his desire for her. meanwhile her betrothed Jasper( her godparents Nephew he's a real slime) comes to the country and seeks her out. They sign the marriage contract. Low and behold he makes an excuse to leave for London the same night. She agrees to go to London to meet him and start the marriage preparation. She gets kidnapped at a Inn and gets drugged with Laudanum. She is brought to a brothel and put on display to be sold. Alex (Lord Ripley) finds out and goes and saves her. They have to pretend to do all sort of things to clear her good name. Alex takes care of her and brings her to his cousins house. His cousin is a son of a duke and Alex is a son of an earl. Alex slowly prepares to slowly and surly destroy Jasper. He plays games with Jasper. He asks Connie for her hand in marriage and she always refuses. She believes she is not worthy of Alex and she will bring him down. . Get it and find out if Alex slowly brakes down Connie's " NOS" and they live happily ever after. Find out how Jasper is destroyed and how Connie gets rewarded also by her godparents
July 8, 2014
My copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Author: Lynne Connolly
First published: 2014
Length: 233 pages (epub), 4090 locations (kindle)
Setting: London, 1754. Georgian
Sex: Explicit but not frequent.
Heroine: (Unhappy) widow now engaged. 28yo bluestocking.
Trigger: Almost raped .
When reading historical romance we look for cues to help us accept the world views - trips to Almacks, particular clothing, language. When they are superceded or used ham-fisted we are pulled from the World.
Unfortunately, "Rogue in Red Velvet" is one of those books. As soon as our heroine, Connie, says "Damn" I found my myself torn. It became a cosplay story - modern characters and contemporary storyline with the players dressed up. As Connolly focussed on what everyone wore, said, saw, it felt more and more like she was trying to convince us of what should have been a given. I was being told (over and over) rather than shown.
"Rogue in Red Velvet" has the bones of a good story but lacks the skills of an experienced writer.
Note: I'm wrong, Connolly is quite experienced with more than 60 books to her name, many historicals. Whilst I was willing to forgive a beginning author for a lack of finesse, I find myself disappointed in a shoe-horned historical.
Language issues, confusing family politics implying knowledge found in (unlinked) earlier books leave the book wanting.
References:
Author's website: http://lynneconnolly.com/emperors-of-...
(ISBN 978-1-61650-564-6)
-CR-
Author: Lynne Connolly
First published: 2014
Length: 233 pages (epub), 4090 locations (kindle)
Setting: London, 1754. Georgian
Sex: Explicit but not frequent.
Heroine: (Unhappy) widow now engaged. 28yo bluestocking.
Trigger: Almost raped .
When reading historical romance we look for cues to help us accept the world views - trips to Almacks, particular clothing, language. When they are superceded or used ham-fisted we are pulled from the World.
Unfortunately, "Rogue in Red Velvet" is one of those books. As soon as our heroine, Connie, says "Damn" I found my myself torn. It became a cosplay story - modern characters and contemporary storyline with the players dressed up. As Connolly focussed on what everyone wore, said, saw, it felt more and more like she was trying to convince us of what should have been a given. I was being told (over and over) rather than shown.
"Rogue in Red Velvet" has the bones of a good story but lacks the skills of an experienced writer.
Note: I'm wrong, Connolly is quite experienced with more than 60 books to her name, many historicals. Whilst I was willing to forgive a beginning author for a lack of finesse, I find myself disappointed in a shoe-horned historical.
Language issues, confusing family politics implying knowledge found in (unlinked) earlier books leave the book wanting.
References:
Author's website: http://lynneconnolly.com/emperors-of-...
(ISBN 978-1-61650-564-6)
-CR-
October 7, 2014
**I received a copy of this book for an honest review**
When I started this book, I wasn't sure if it would be like many of the other historical romances I've read or if it would be different (in a good or bad way). Reading the summary definitely made me hopeful. After I started the book, I found that the plot was definitely a nice departure from the typical ones. I liked both main characters very well. Connie was very independent and attempted to stick to her decisions, leading with her brain rather than her heart. In regards to Alex, even though the author alluded to a past roguish character, he proved himself worthy right from the beginning. However, there were times when I found he spent too much time on every detail to his appearance. I also liked several of the side characters in the book, namely Alex's cousins.
There are a few things I didn't care for in the books though. I thought at some points there was just too much details given that weren't necessary and were more of a hindrance than anything. I also caught a few date reference errors.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more from this author.
When I started this book, I wasn't sure if it would be like many of the other historical romances I've read or if it would be different (in a good or bad way). Reading the summary definitely made me hopeful. After I started the book, I found that the plot was definitely a nice departure from the typical ones. I liked both main characters very well. Connie was very independent and attempted to stick to her decisions, leading with her brain rather than her heart. In regards to Alex, even though the author alluded to a past roguish character, he proved himself worthy right from the beginning. However, there were times when I found he spent too much time on every detail to his appearance. I also liked several of the side characters in the book, namely Alex's cousins.
There are a few things I didn't care for in the books though. I thought at some points there was just too much details given that weren't necessary and were more of a hindrance than anything. I also caught a few date reference errors.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more from this author.
September 21, 2014
I do not know if it was due to the fact that the two protagonists of this story are not the usual virgin and the scoundrel to be redeemed, but this book is different from the usual regency, also because set sixty years before. What at first seems like a little weak plot (sold at auction?), it is a ploy to allow the two characters to make the usual sparks that keep the tension high in a book. Nice characters and snappy dialogue, in fact, a must read.
Non so se sia stato per il fatto che i due protagonisti di questa storia non sono la solita debuttante e lo scapolone da redimere, ma questo libro é diverso dai soliti regency, anche perché ambientato una sessantina di anni prima. Quella che all'inizio sembra una trama un pochino labile (venduta ad un'asta), non é che un escamotage per permettere ai due personaggi di fare le solite scintille che tengono la tensione alta in un libro. Bei personaggi e dialoghi vivaci, insomma, consigliabile.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND KENSINGTON BOOKS FOR THE PREVIEW!
Non so se sia stato per il fatto che i due protagonisti di questa storia non sono la solita debuttante e lo scapolone da redimere, ma questo libro é diverso dai soliti regency, anche perché ambientato una sessantina di anni prima. Quella che all'inizio sembra una trama un pochino labile (venduta ad un'asta), non é che un escamotage per permettere ai due personaggi di fare le solite scintille che tengono la tensione alta in un libro. Bei personaggi e dialoghi vivaci, insomma, consigliabile.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND KENSINGTON BOOKS FOR THE PREVIEW!
July 9, 2014
This was a pretty good read, light and easy. It was about a woman who was a country widow about to marry again, but her finance sells her in a brothel. Well this kinda let me down at this part. Connie Rattigan being said widow, finds herself being drugged and dressed like a harlot and men are bidding on her. Of course, her "supposed intended" blurts out her name and she is ruined. But then she is taken away by the man she should have married the good looking Lord Alex Ripley. If you like your romance with a touch of modern language, this one is for you. Thanks Net Galley for letting me read and review this ARC.
April 21, 2016
A fierce heroine with an independent spirit is what lured me. Rogue in Red Velvet is a love story steeped in a troubled history but undying devotion between the two main characters. Connie is has the intelligence, tenacity and heart of a tigress and the pride of a queen. Betrayal and hardship will not slow her down. Alex is just the right match for this woman with strong opinions and will of heart. He is her protector, lover and friend even in the face of death. Lynne Connolly has created a world filled with strong characters that reek of temptation, trouble and heart. My rating 3.5 stars.
August 8, 2015
This is the second book of the series. Connie Rattigan was at the same house party as Alex Vernon (Lord Ripley). He had come at his father's request to pick a bride and he found himself drawn to Connie a widow. Alex found himself instantly attracted to her but she was engaged to another so the romance never flourished. Connie was attracted to him, but was going ahead and marrying Jasper. Connie ended up in a very unhappy in her first marriage and this was time it was not any different. I think you should read this book and I know you would enjoy it.
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