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Sons of Scandal #1
Never Trust a Scoundrel
Miss Grace Banbury was in shock. Her mother put her up as a prize in a high stakes card game, and now the gentleman who won is ready to claim her! But Grace has other plans. She just needs the dastardly rogue to go along with it...
A notorious rake from a scandalous family, Daniel Throckmorten has no use for blushing virgins. Yet there's no denying the attraction for the beauty standing before him, proposing an enticing wager: He will use all his charm and wit to seduce her into his bed...and she only has to resist. If she succeeds, she wins enough funds to secure her own future. If he wins...she'll be his. Daniel has never been so tempted--and has no intention of losing...
A notorious rake from a scandalous family, Daniel Throckmorten has no use for blushing virgins. Yet there's no denying the attraction for the beauty standing before him, proposing an enticing wager: He will use all his charm and wit to seduce her into his bed...and she only has to resist. If she succeeds, she wins enough funds to secure her own future. If he wins...she'll be his. Daniel has never been so tempted--and has no intention of losing...
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 25, 2008
148 people are currently reading
829 people want to read
About the author
Gayle Callen
46 books523 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Gayle Callen writes historical romances for Avon Books. Her twenty-second novel, The Wrong Bride, was published in November 2015.
Gayle’s novels have won the Holt Medallion, the Laurel Wreath Award, the Booksellers’ Best Award, and finaled in the National Readers Choice Awards. She was a nominee for RT Book Reviews Magazine’s Reviewers’ Choice Award. Her books have been translated into eleven different languages. She also writes the contemporary romances as Emma Cane.
Gayle resides in central New York with her husband. Now that her three children are grown, she has time to read, sing, and delve too deeply into historical research. A past President of the Central New York Romance Writers, she is also a member of Romance Writers of America and Novelists Inc. Visit her website at http://www.gaylecallen.com
Gayle’s novels have won the Holt Medallion, the Laurel Wreath Award, the Booksellers’ Best Award, and finaled in the National Readers Choice Awards. She was a nominee for RT Book Reviews Magazine’s Reviewers’ Choice Award. Her books have been translated into eleven different languages. She also writes the contemporary romances as Emma Cane.
Gayle resides in central New York with her husband. Now that her three children are grown, she has time to read, sing, and delve too deeply into historical research. A past President of the Central New York Romance Writers, she is also a member of Romance Writers of America and Novelists Inc. Visit her website at http://www.gaylecallen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 24, 2017
En son ilkokuldaydım bu kadar zorlanarak okuduğumda. Sıkıntım yazarın dilinden mi çeviriden mi anlayamadım. Gereksiz uzatılmış cümlelerle doluydu. Başladığınız cümleyi anlayabilmek için birkaç kez başa dönmeniz gerekiyordu bazen. Bir olay gelişirken, gözünüzde canlandırmaya çalıştığınızda kafanız karışıyordu. Çünkü karakterler bir cümlede odanın köşesindeyken, başka cümlede kanepede oturuyor gibi anlatılıyordu.
Konu belki daha güzel işlense, karşılıklı atışmalar daha fazla olsa, eğlenceli olabilirdi. Ama bunu da başaramamış, genelde 'hadi artık ne olacaksa olsun' dedirterek ilerlemiş. Sonu tam güzel olacakmış, o da kısa kalmış, 'sayfa sayısı doldu' der gibi üstün körü geçiştirilmişti.
İnsanı historical romandan soğutur kesinlikle. Tek güzel yanı kitabın kapağıydı sanırım.
Konu belki daha güzel işlense, karşılıklı atışmalar daha fazla olsa, eğlenceli olabilirdi. Ama bunu da başaramamış, genelde 'hadi artık ne olacaksa olsun' dedirterek ilerlemiş. Sonu tam güzel olacakmış, o da kısa kalmış, 'sayfa sayısı doldu' der gibi üstün körü geçiştirilmişti.
İnsanı historical romandan soğutur kesinlikle. Tek güzel yanı kitabın kapağıydı sanırım.
May 14, 2013
This is the first book that I read by Gayle Callen and it was a bit of a let down. I had decided to read this when I saw that it was on sale and bought it on a whim.
Grace Banbury goes to London to try to salvage what is left of their inheritance when her mother gambles away everything in a card game. When she arrives in London, she discovers that their town house is empty and devoid of any servants and she also meets Daniel Throckmorten, the newest owner. Daniel, thinking that she is her brother's mistress, starts to make a proposition. When he finds out that she is Miss Banbury, he still persists and proposes that he seduce her to become his mistress. If she wins, she gets all her property back and if he wins, he gets her as his mistress and keeps the violin that was his fathers'. Grace agrees and then the seducing starts.
Personally, I thought the romance was a bit bleh. I loved both characters and was able to relate to them but I thought the whole proposition was a bit ridiculous. I would have thought the proposition would be that she become his mistress for two weeks, considering the stakes. But whatever.
We also get to read about Daniel's backstory and we meet his family when Daniel and Grace visit his manor. I actually liked Daniel and thought that his personality was very surprising considering his background and his reputation.
Although I thought the spats and encounters between the two were very interesting and there was a chemistry between them, but the story just fell flat for me. The ending did not have the impact that I had expected.
Grace Banbury goes to London to try to salvage what is left of their inheritance when her mother gambles away everything in a card game. When she arrives in London, she discovers that their town house is empty and devoid of any servants and she also meets Daniel Throckmorten, the newest owner. Daniel, thinking that she is her brother's mistress, starts to make a proposition. When he finds out that she is Miss Banbury, he still persists and proposes that he seduce her to become his mistress. If she wins, she gets all her property back and if he wins, he gets her as his mistress and keeps the violin that was his fathers'. Grace agrees and then the seducing starts.
Personally, I thought the romance was a bit bleh. I loved both characters and was able to relate to them but I thought the whole proposition was a bit ridiculous. I would have thought the proposition would be that she become his mistress for two weeks, considering the stakes. But whatever.
We also get to read about Daniel's backstory and we meet his family when Daniel and Grace visit his manor. I actually liked Daniel and thought that his personality was very surprising considering his background and his reputation.
Although I thought the spats and encounters between the two were very interesting and there was a chemistry between them, but the story just fell flat for me. The ending did not have the impact that I had expected.
August 6, 2016
''Gerçekten sadece viyolanı kazanmak istemiştim fakat aksine kazandığım... her şey oldu.''
''Söyleyin bana hadi.''
''Sizi kazandım.''
Kendi türü içerisinde okuduklarım arasında en iyilerini seçmek istesem eğer bu kitabın o listede olacağını düşünmüyorum, ancak ihtiyacım olan şey etkilenmek değil de vakit geçirmek olduğundan ve bunu da çok iyi bir şekilde başardığından kitabı beğendim. Tarihi romantik kurgu seviyorsanız bir göz atmanızı tavsiye ederim.
[Yorumun tamamı için: *tıklayın*]
''Söyleyin bana hadi.''
''Sizi kazandım.''
Kendi türü içerisinde okuduklarım arasında en iyilerini seçmek istesem eğer bu kitabın o listede olacağını düşünmüyorum, ancak ihtiyacım olan şey etkilenmek değil de vakit geçirmek olduğundan ve bunu da çok iyi bir şekilde başardığından kitabı beğendim. Tarihi romantik kurgu seviyorsanız bir göz atmanızı tavsiye ederim.
[Yorumun tamamı için: *tıklayın*]
Read
February 7, 2020No way!!!
August 2, 2016
Poldark duraklama evresine girince, benim de işler güçler yoğun geçince.. Tam kafa dağıtmalık, eğlenceli bir kitaba el attım. Konu işleyişi daha zengin olabilirdi aslında ama işte okuttu mu kendini? Hem de sular seller gibi
May 9, 2024
This was a great read, a slow-burn type romance. I enjoyed this story until the end, when I felt that the story was a little rushed. I wish there would have been a bit more details about what happened after the final page. The characters have great chemistry throughout the book and Grace keeps you on your toes. I look forward to checking out Book 2 in this series. I would recommend this book to someone who likes romance with a challenge.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2023
I had a difficult time finishing this book, it seemed to drag on forever. The plot just didn't work for me. Mother and son have a gambling problem. Mother loses the house, her husbands expensive violin and her daughters hand in marriage in a card game and promptly leaves the country. The daughter, (the heroine), makes a deal with the winner of the card game, ( the hero), that she can resist him for 2 weeks. If she wins the wager, she will get the violin which she intends to sell, in order to purchase a house for her and her brother. The hero's family has a huge scandal because his father, a famous composer, died scandalously and the violin reminds the hero of one his father owned.
Even though he is trying to win the wager, he supports the heroines family by paying for servant's etc.. the whole plot just didn't work for me, and I didn't feel the passion the hero and heroine supposedly had for each other.
The book basically centers around this wager, though a half hearted villain shows up 3/4 of the way through the story. This villain also participated in the card game, and since he has been rejected by several women, he insists that the heroine must marry him. There was another villain that showed up for 2 pages- spoiler ahead.....
I felt that the above plot piece was unnecessary, since it didn't add to the story, since this villain wasn't developed as a character. He literally shows up, the hero threatens him, and he is never heard from again..
Also, the ending was extremely abrupt. The hero and heroine didn't profess their love for each other until literally the last page. Not until the heroine was trying to get the hero to marry someone more worthy.
Heat level- very slight
no explicit sex scenes.
very little violence (just fist cuffs)
Even though he is trying to win the wager, he supports the heroines family by paying for servant's etc.. the whole plot just didn't work for me, and I didn't feel the passion the hero and heroine supposedly had for each other.
The book basically centers around this wager, though a half hearted villain shows up 3/4 of the way through the story. This villain also participated in the card game, and since he has been rejected by several women, he insists that the heroine must marry him. There was another villain that showed up for 2 pages- spoiler ahead.....
I felt that the above plot piece was unnecessary, since it didn't add to the story, since this villain wasn't developed as a character. He literally shows up, the hero threatens him, and he is never heard from again..
Also, the ending was extremely abrupt. The hero and heroine didn't profess their love for each other until literally the last page. Not until the heroine was trying to get the hero to marry someone more worthy.
Heat level- very slight
no explicit sex scenes.
very little violence (just fist cuffs)
May 12, 2024
The gamble of a lifetime…
Son of a composer, grandson of a duke and nephew to the current one, Daniel’s life hadn’t been as easy as his ancestry might suggest. When his father died in an accident, his mother, a composer herself, was run out of Town with vicious speculations. She shut everyone out, including her young son, and music was forever banned from their lives.
Now a man of nearly thirty, he chose a life of business, gambling and scandal for himself… but mistresses and cards had lost their luster, until a woman offered a violin in a high stakes game - a violin just like the one his father once had - and that wasn’t all she offered…
From a young age Grace learned she would be the responsible one. After her father died, her mother’s gambling got out of control, and she was left to make sure their country estate didn’t fail and her brother, a gentleman, received a proper education.
For fifteen years she managed just fine, until disaster struck. Their mother had left them, gambled away their homes, her father’s precious violin, and worst of all, Grace herself!
And then the cad who gambled her family into ruin came to claim his prize…
The terms of their bargain are in the official blurb, and I won’t be giving any more away!
This was an enthralling read! A fascinating game of push and pull, very character focused with a refreshing witty twist, deliciously steamy but not in the obvious way, and utterly captivating!
I love these characters and the slow unveiling of their past, present and future! They can’t (or won’t) be together, but they can’t stand to be apart either, and they’re both in it to win.
This story is wicked and fun, temptation galore with some very fine banter, sizzling tension, a hint of danger and tons of gossip, but also more vulnerable and softer side.
Tender and sweet, but always with an edge - this was an excellent read and I’m eager to read the next books in this series!
And, reading this book also made me remember how much I enjoyed ‘The Sisters of Willow Pond’ series! Louisa and Simon from book 3 have a wonderful cameo in this story!
Son of a composer, grandson of a duke and nephew to the current one, Daniel’s life hadn’t been as easy as his ancestry might suggest. When his father died in an accident, his mother, a composer herself, was run out of Town with vicious speculations. She shut everyone out, including her young son, and music was forever banned from their lives.
Now a man of nearly thirty, he chose a life of business, gambling and scandal for himself… but mistresses and cards had lost their luster, until a woman offered a violin in a high stakes game - a violin just like the one his father once had - and that wasn’t all she offered…
From a young age Grace learned she would be the responsible one. After her father died, her mother’s gambling got out of control, and she was left to make sure their country estate didn’t fail and her brother, a gentleman, received a proper education.
For fifteen years she managed just fine, until disaster struck. Their mother had left them, gambled away their homes, her father’s precious violin, and worst of all, Grace herself!
And then the cad who gambled her family into ruin came to claim his prize…
The terms of their bargain are in the official blurb, and I won’t be giving any more away!
This was an enthralling read! A fascinating game of push and pull, very character focused with a refreshing witty twist, deliciously steamy but not in the obvious way, and utterly captivating!
I love these characters and the slow unveiling of their past, present and future! They can’t (or won’t) be together, but they can’t stand to be apart either, and they’re both in it to win.
This story is wicked and fun, temptation galore with some very fine banter, sizzling tension, a hint of danger and tons of gossip, but also more vulnerable and softer side.
Tender and sweet, but always with an edge - this was an excellent read and I’m eager to read the next books in this series!
And, reading this book also made me remember how much I enjoyed ‘The Sisters of Willow Pond’ series! Louisa and Simon from book 3 have a wonderful cameo in this story!
August 15, 2020
3 - Book 1 for the Historical Romance Readathon
Not as steamy as I would've liked but the characters were likeable. There also wasn't a big misunderstanding or conflict between the love interests which I've found that I rather enjoy in HRs because there's make-up sex.
Not as steamy as I would've liked but the characters were likeable. There also wasn't a big misunderstanding or conflict between the love interests which I've found that I rather enjoy in HRs because there's make-up sex.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2024
After learning that her mother gambled away not only their late father’s prized violin, but also their country manor and their London townhouse before leaving with no hint of where she’d gone, Grace Banbury rushes to London to inform Edward, her younger brother. But when she arrives, she finds the house open, bare of any valuables and no servants, she immediately realizes that her brother is gambling too and is desperate to find a way to save them from ruin and restore her brother’s birthright. She gets ready for bed and hears someone entering the house, thinking it is Edward, she runs downstairs in her nightclothes to confront him, but instead of Edward, she finds a handsome stranger who claims the house is his. It is then she learns that her mother wagered with three men and in her desperation to win, lost not only the family homes, and her late husband’s priceless violin, but she also wagered the right to marry her daughter. Grace is horrified and when the winner, Daniel Throckmorten, informs her he is not in the market for a wife, but would take her as his mistress, a new wager is made. She will give Daniel two weeks to seduce her into agreeing to be his mistress, but if he fails, he will return her father’s violin to her. So with his promise not to tell anyone of the wager, which would ruin her, Grace is sure she can beat him, after all, she is not as innocent as he thinks she is, so what could possibly go wrong?
Daniel Throckmorten never had any intention of marrying Grace, he didn’t even what the houses, he wagered with her mother strictly to get the violin, which reminded him of one his father had owned and was lost after his death. He wasn’t even going to contact Grace, but when he meets her, he is intrigued and can’t seem to sever their acquaintanceship quite yet. So, he agrees to their wager, confident that he will win. But he has never met a woman like Grace, and the more time he spends with her, the more he wants, and what started as a “can’t lose” bet, has turned into a battle of the wills, one he is not sure he can win.
I read this book years ago when it was first released and I loved it, it is probably my favorite Gaylen Callen book ever. The story is well-written, nicely paced and is not quite as cut and dry as the blurb leads readers to believe. The story is filled with witty banter, blatant sexual overtures, steamy love scenes, secrets, scandal, stalkers, wonderful secondary characters, familiar faces from previous books, blackmail, healing and finally a very sweet ending with the promise of HEA. This book has an “old-school” historical romance feel to it (which I personally love but acknowledge might not be for everyone), featuring a strong heroine and a scoundrel with a heart of gold as well as lots of steam. I loved it when it first came out and I love it now. Highly recommended!
4.5 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *
Daniel Throckmorten never had any intention of marrying Grace, he didn’t even what the houses, he wagered with her mother strictly to get the violin, which reminded him of one his father had owned and was lost after his death. He wasn’t even going to contact Grace, but when he meets her, he is intrigued and can’t seem to sever their acquaintanceship quite yet. So, he agrees to their wager, confident that he will win. But he has never met a woman like Grace, and the more time he spends with her, the more he wants, and what started as a “can’t lose” bet, has turned into a battle of the wills, one he is not sure he can win.
I read this book years ago when it was first released and I loved it, it is probably my favorite Gaylen Callen book ever. The story is well-written, nicely paced and is not quite as cut and dry as the blurb leads readers to believe. The story is filled with witty banter, blatant sexual overtures, steamy love scenes, secrets, scandal, stalkers, wonderful secondary characters, familiar faces from previous books, blackmail, healing and finally a very sweet ending with the promise of HEA. This book has an “old-school” historical romance feel to it (which I personally love but acknowledge might not be for everyone), featuring a strong heroine and a scoundrel with a heart of gold as well as lots of steam. I loved it when it first came out and I love it now. Highly recommended!
4.5 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *
May 22, 2024
Love born of a scandal!
This is the first book in a trilogy and I am excited for more. This story started with a scandal and kind of ended with a whisper of one, in the best possible way.
Bless Grace Banbury and her trials. I can't imagine discovering that a family member would gamble away not one, but both family homes and throw you in for good measure. The pain of betrayal, hurt and disappointment were palpable. Instantly you wanted to just bug her and let her have a good cry! But Ms. Callen give her sterner stuff; grit, determination, an optimism to see good in others and a capacity to love fiercely. She is smart and selfless.
Daniel Throckmorton is one of the most interesting heroes I've read. He is the heir to the Duke of Madingley, his cousin, but his actual rank is not mentioned. He wants society to see him one way, not necessarily flattering, but a man who cares little for others and only of his own pleasures. But as we learn more about him, we discover under his disguise is a deeply kind, caring, supportive man. A man who will guide and assist others to succeed. Yes, he was the winner of Grace's family homes, and yes there was a challenge declared and accepted, but even that turned into a learning and growing endeavor.
I enjoyed the interplay between Grace and Daniel. As they each strove to win their part of the challenge they developed a bond of friendship neither of them expected. Seeing them each think they had the upper hand was delightful. I liked the pace of the book and how even though the actual story only covered a couple of weeks, Ms. Callen brought such depth to the characters that you felt longer, in the best way. We got to know, wonderful supporting characters and villains. The villains were dispatched with precision on both Daniel's and Edward's, he is Grace's brother. I enjoyed seeing both Grace and Daniel learn to trust, it just themselves, but each other.
This story touched on gambling and the sad side of the addiction, loss and misery that can take down people. It talked of fighting back from the edge and finding firm footing. It included moments where even those on the fringe ofsomeone's addiction might struggle to not fall into it. Ms. Callen handled it with grace and a tender but truthful manner. Too often we read or hear about someone losing everything and not recognizing the damage they leave in their paths. We are given a chance to see someone see the pain of their actions have caused and to fight to stop to make a positive difference:not just for themselves, but for the one he cares about most.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book in a trilogy and I am excited for more. This story started with a scandal and kind of ended with a whisper of one, in the best possible way.
Bless Grace Banbury and her trials. I can't imagine discovering that a family member would gamble away not one, but both family homes and throw you in for good measure. The pain of betrayal, hurt and disappointment were palpable. Instantly you wanted to just bug her and let her have a good cry! But Ms. Callen give her sterner stuff; grit, determination, an optimism to see good in others and a capacity to love fiercely. She is smart and selfless.
Daniel Throckmorton is one of the most interesting heroes I've read. He is the heir to the Duke of Madingley, his cousin, but his actual rank is not mentioned. He wants society to see him one way, not necessarily flattering, but a man who cares little for others and only of his own pleasures. But as we learn more about him, we discover under his disguise is a deeply kind, caring, supportive man. A man who will guide and assist others to succeed. Yes, he was the winner of Grace's family homes, and yes there was a challenge declared and accepted, but even that turned into a learning and growing endeavor.
I enjoyed the interplay between Grace and Daniel. As they each strove to win their part of the challenge they developed a bond of friendship neither of them expected. Seeing them each think they had the upper hand was delightful. I liked the pace of the book and how even though the actual story only covered a couple of weeks, Ms. Callen brought such depth to the characters that you felt longer, in the best way. We got to know, wonderful supporting characters and villains. The villains were dispatched with precision on both Daniel's and Edward's, he is Grace's brother. I enjoyed seeing both Grace and Daniel learn to trust, it just themselves, but each other.
This story touched on gambling and the sad side of the addiction, loss and misery that can take down people. It talked of fighting back from the edge and finding firm footing. It included moments where even those on the fringe ofsomeone's addiction might struggle to not fall into it. Ms. Callen handled it with grace and a tender but truthful manner. Too often we read or hear about someone losing everything and not recognizing the damage they leave in their paths. We are given a chance to see someone see the pain of their actions have caused and to fight to stop to make a positive difference:not just for themselves, but for the one he cares about most.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 3, 2022
Heroine: Grace Banbury, 23. Her mother and brother have gambling problems.
Hero: Daniel Throckmorten, 29. Cousin of the Duke of Madingley.
Date: 1845
How they meet: When Grace’s mother leaves her after losing their homes in a card game, Grace goes to her brother’s townhouse in London to seek his help. She meets Daniel at the townhouse, and learns that he is the man to whom her mother lost in the card game.
What happens: Grace is disappointed to learn from Daniel that not only did he win their country home and townhouse, but also a valuable and rare violin (that Grace was supposed to inherit) and the rights to court and marry Grace herself. Grace is relieved to learn that he doesn’t want to marry her (he was in it for the violin; some other man in the card game wanted Grace), but he lets her know he is looking for a mistress. She laughs at him and he insists he couldn’t convince her to take the position if he wished to. Everything very quickly and (too) easily resolves itself at the end.
Verdict: I was rather indifferent about this book. The main characters didn’t end up being quite what they seemed at first, but I never felt any real sympathy or connection with them. Lust seemed to be what was driving the plot rather than a blossoming affection for each other. While I’m not an expert, I don’t feel like the characters were true to the societal constraints that existed in the 1840s. For example, if she never “came out” how does she get invited to so many society events? Also, . Overall, he seemed very predatory and she was both reckless and naive. While I didn’t hate the book, I just can’t find much to praise about it. In addition to issues with liking the characters, I kept noticing things about the plot that didn’t quite make sense or seem right. This is my first book by this author and I probably won’t read anymore.
Steam-level: Steamy and explicit
Rating: 3 stars
Hero: Daniel Throckmorten, 29. Cousin of the Duke of Madingley.
Date: 1845
How they meet: When Grace’s mother leaves her after losing their homes in a card game, Grace goes to her brother’s townhouse in London to seek his help. She meets Daniel at the townhouse, and learns that he is the man to whom her mother lost in the card game.
What happens: Grace is disappointed to learn from Daniel that not only did he win their country home and townhouse, but also a valuable and rare violin (that Grace was supposed to inherit) and the rights to court and marry Grace herself. Grace is relieved to learn that he doesn’t want to marry her (he was in it for the violin; some other man in the card game wanted Grace), but he lets her know he is looking for a mistress. She laughs at him and he insists he couldn’t convince her to take the position if he wished to. Everything very quickly and (too) easily resolves itself at the end.
Verdict: I was rather indifferent about this book. The main characters didn’t end up being quite what they seemed at first, but I never felt any real sympathy or connection with them. Lust seemed to be what was driving the plot rather than a blossoming affection for each other. While I’m not an expert, I don’t feel like the characters were true to the societal constraints that existed in the 1840s. For example, if she never “came out” how does she get invited to so many society events? Also, . Overall, he seemed very predatory and she was both reckless and naive. While I didn’t hate the book, I just can’t find much to praise about it. In addition to issues with liking the characters, I kept noticing things about the plot that didn’t quite make sense or seem right. This is my first book by this author and I probably won’t read anymore.
Steam-level: Steamy and explicit
Rating: 3 stars
September 10, 2018
Reading the synopsis of this book, I really didn't think I'd like anything about it. I'm not crazy about the super alpha, ultra rake hero. As the title states, Daniel is a scoundrel and works hard to keep it that way. And honestly, these stories about "let's make a bet and see how long you can resist me" are sometimes really cheesy. Never Trust a Scoundrel was pleasantly different.
Daniel was manipulative but what caught my interest so quickly was that Grace was just as manipulative. I was laughing out loud at all the things she put Daniel through. Their cat and mouse game was satisfying entertainment. Just when I thought Daniel had gained the upper hand, Grace would force him into yet another uncomfortable situation. And I adored Grace because she was not the typically historical heroine. I loved that she had a past, one which cost her to sacrifice her innocence. She was wise and she was resilient in the fact that she wasn't going to let Daniel be another mistake.
The only thing I didn't like was the way the end result of the bet.
What perhaps made the book so satisfying was the complete circle Grace discovered with Daniel's character. She spent so much of the book trying to make him a redeemed and respectable gentleman. Yet by the end of the book, after she has discovered all his secrets, she declares that she no longer wishes to change him. Confused and panicked, Daniel ask why and she responds that she adores him just the way his is. It stuck with me because I had come to the same conclusion. He was so good at pretending to be someone he wasn't, all Grace had to do was point out the person he was meant to be.
Never Trust A Scoundrel was such a fun journey yet finished with an emotionally charged ending. This really isn't the type of theme I enjoy but I was loving this book from the start. I thoroughly enjoyed this story from Callen and really look forward to the next installment!
Daniel was manipulative but what caught my interest so quickly was that Grace was just as manipulative. I was laughing out loud at all the things she put Daniel through. Their cat and mouse game was satisfying entertainment. Just when I thought Daniel had gained the upper hand, Grace would force him into yet another uncomfortable situation. And I adored Grace because she was not the typically historical heroine. I loved that she had a past, one which cost her to sacrifice her innocence. She was wise and she was resilient in the fact that she wasn't going to let Daniel be another mistake.
The only thing I didn't like was the way the end result of the bet.
What perhaps made the book so satisfying was the complete circle Grace discovered with Daniel's character. She spent so much of the book trying to make him a redeemed and respectable gentleman. Yet by the end of the book, after she has discovered all his secrets, she declares that she no longer wishes to change him. Confused and panicked, Daniel ask why and she responds that she adores him just the way his is. It stuck with me because I had come to the same conclusion. He was so good at pretending to be someone he wasn't, all Grace had to do was point out the person he was meant to be.
Never Trust A Scoundrel was such a fun journey yet finished with an emotionally charged ending. This really isn't the type of theme I enjoy but I was loving this book from the start. I thoroughly enjoyed this story from Callen and really look forward to the next installment!
May 17, 2024
Wow, what a great story! Gayle is a new author for me, and I've enjoyed the books I have read so far, a lot. I will be looking for more of hers. Grace Banbury has not had an easy life especially after her father died. Her mother loves to gamble, unfortunately she is not very good at it. Her brother, Edward only a year younger than her is also drawn to playing cards. He is not as lost to it as their mother. After she tells Grace she has gambled away all their property she flees, leaving Grace to tell Edward. When Grace arrives at her brother's town house in London, she is surprised no one is there. Not her brother, no servants and a lot of missing items in the house! The furnishing, pictures on the wall, it bare. Her old room is still the same. She runs into a strange man coming the door and takes him to task for breaking in. He is large, well dressed and handsome as sin. He is Daniel Throckmorten and the new owner of their home! She blames him for taking advantage of her mother. Daniel lets her know that he only entered the game for the antique Violin. Grace is shocked and upset that her mother even bet her father's Violin; it was to be hers. Daniel let her know that is not all her mother sweeten the pot with she also gave Graces hand in marriage to the winner! Daniel tells her he will not marry her, but he is in the market for a new mistress. Grace needs to get the violin back so she can sell it and help her brother. Daniel and Grace make a wager, for two weeks he will use all his charm to seduce her to his bed and he will let her live in the townhouse. If she wins, she gets the violin, if he wins, he gets her. Oh, my what a challenge. Let the games begin, add in some wonderful characters, an evil ex suitor, and the eyes of ton. As Daniel and Grace meet and both try to win, they learn much about the other. Both are drawn to the other. There is a lot more going on around and with our couple. The banter between them is great. Passion, many twists and turns along with secrets will lead our couple. This is a fast read as the story keeps you turning pages. I hope the rest of the series is this good. I can’t wait for book two. Grab a couple and get reading. You will not be able to put it down. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it. Enjoy
May 11, 2024
Miss Grace Banbury shouldn’t be shocked at anything her mother does as a compulsive gambler, but cannot believe that she was put up as a prize in a high stakes card game, as well as losing her father’s prized violin.
When she arrives in London at her brother Edward’s townhouse, she finds it stripped bare, no servants so she knows her brother is also gambling. She hears the door, and thinking it is her brother runs downstairs to find Daniel Throckmorten, who tells her he owns this house, the country house and the violin, as well as the right to marry her. She is mortified, especially when he tells her he isn’t looking for a wife, but would gladly agree to having her as his mistress. Grace is desperate to get back the violin, and they enter into a new wager. He has two weeks to seduce her into becoming his mistress, if he wins, and if he loses she will get the violin back.
Daniel has no intentions of marrying Grace, but he is curious about her, and finds her attractive, so he agrees to the wager. Each of them think they can win so let the battle begins.
There is a lot going on in this story, besides winning the wager. Both Grace and Daniel are complex characters, with significant layers to their personas. Grace stands up for herself, and challenges Daniel at ever turn. She is sexually attracted to him but refuses to give in. Daniel seems to be a scoundrel but really is not, he is roguish at every opportunity, but Grace doesn’t back down, she can be just as devious which was delightful!
I loved that the more time Daniel spent with Grace, he is determined to win the wager, but can’t stop thinking about her, and enjoys her company. When another man, threatens to expose the details of the wager her mother made, Daniel was jealous and started to reconsider their wager and relationship.
I enjoyed this story a lot, it was humorous, with tons of witty banter, sexual tension, steamy encounters, great chemistry, secrets, threats, a scoundrel with a big heart, and a lady that makes him want to change.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
When she arrives in London at her brother Edward’s townhouse, she finds it stripped bare, no servants so she knows her brother is also gambling. She hears the door, and thinking it is her brother runs downstairs to find Daniel Throckmorten, who tells her he owns this house, the country house and the violin, as well as the right to marry her. She is mortified, especially when he tells her he isn’t looking for a wife, but would gladly agree to having her as his mistress. Grace is desperate to get back the violin, and they enter into a new wager. He has two weeks to seduce her into becoming his mistress, if he wins, and if he loses she will get the violin back.
Daniel has no intentions of marrying Grace, but he is curious about her, and finds her attractive, so he agrees to the wager. Each of them think they can win so let the battle begins.
There is a lot going on in this story, besides winning the wager. Both Grace and Daniel are complex characters, with significant layers to their personas. Grace stands up for herself, and challenges Daniel at ever turn. She is sexually attracted to him but refuses to give in. Daniel seems to be a scoundrel but really is not, he is roguish at every opportunity, but Grace doesn’t back down, she can be just as devious which was delightful!
I loved that the more time Daniel spent with Grace, he is determined to win the wager, but can’t stop thinking about her, and enjoys her company. When another man, threatens to expose the details of the wager her mother made, Daniel was jealous and started to reconsider their wager and relationship.
I enjoyed this story a lot, it was humorous, with tons of witty banter, sexual tension, steamy encounters, great chemistry, secrets, threats, a scoundrel with a big heart, and a lady that makes him want to change.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 5, 2025
Daniel is considered to be a rake and a gambler. It is during one of these gambling meetings that he meets Grace Banbury's mother, who is also gambling. At her wits' end, Mrs. Banbury wagers on the marriage of her daughter to the winner. When she loses, Mrs. Banbury disappears.
Daniel arrives at the former home of the Banburys, only to find Grace in the home. Everything else has been stripped from the house (through the gambling of Mrs.Banbury and her son, Edward). Grace has recently arrived in London to live with her brother. Grace has come to London to save her brother from gambling and save his future.
When Daniel meets Grace and realizes that her mother has stolen her future, he is offended on her behalf. He is not interested in marrying anyone, but he proposes a challenge that would allow Grace to get back her father's valuable musical instrument. He suggests that Grace resist his seduction attempts for two weeks to get the valuable asset back. This would give Grace something to restart her life with.
Grace thinks this will be easy because she was compromised by someone who said he loved her, only to dump her. She doesn't believe she will have any difficulty. However, she is protected by her disdain for Daniel and his way of life. Over the next two weeks, however, she sees another side of Daniel.
Sons of Scandal
** 1. Never Trust a Scoundrel (2008)
2. Never Dare a Duke (2008)
3. Never Marry a Stranger (2009)
Daniel arrives at the former home of the Banburys, only to find Grace in the home. Everything else has been stripped from the house (through the gambling of Mrs.Banbury and her son, Edward). Grace has recently arrived in London to live with her brother. Grace has come to London to save her brother from gambling and save his future.
When Daniel meets Grace and realizes that her mother has stolen her future, he is offended on her behalf. He is not interested in marrying anyone, but he proposes a challenge that would allow Grace to get back her father's valuable musical instrument. He suggests that Grace resist his seduction attempts for two weeks to get the valuable asset back. This would give Grace something to restart her life with.
Grace thinks this will be easy because she was compromised by someone who said he loved her, only to dump her. She doesn't believe she will have any difficulty. However, she is protected by her disdain for Daniel and his way of life. Over the next two weeks, however, she sees another side of Daniel.
Sons of Scandal
** 1. Never Trust a Scoundrel (2008)
2. Never Dare a Duke (2008)
3. Never Marry a Stranger (2009)
December 23, 2025
A gamble of trust
Daniel and Grace have a story of wonderious calamity. Their introduction to one another is the "meet cute" to melt your heart.
Grace Banbury is trying to live her life on the straight and narrow, thanks to her mothers addiction. Her brother has the same addiction. Having lost her only home, she flees to the London home where her brother is. Not wanting to know the full extent of their situation, Grace only tells part of what happened to her brother.
Daniel Throckmorton is a self made man. His father was a brilliant composer, his mother has only one great composition. That music caused a great scandal to the family. Still in morning for their lost both mother and son give up music. So Daniel rings himself liking for creative outlites.
Gambling and mistresses are among the many ways he passes his time. Enter Grace, as Daniel goes to see how empty the house is he won in a card game, there she is. Grace seeing this as a way to get the seed money to help herself and her brother posses a challenge to Daniel.
As the challenge is view differently by each, they near the end when the true villain enters the picture. With a scandal threatening to bring her down, friends, family, and new acquaintance rally around her.
The best marriage proposal is given that will bring tears to your eye. Although the storyline drags in a few places, the characters and plot will have you engrossed and hopeful of a blessed outcome.
Daniel and Grace have a story of wonderious calamity. Their introduction to one another is the "meet cute" to melt your heart.
Grace Banbury is trying to live her life on the straight and narrow, thanks to her mothers addiction. Her brother has the same addiction. Having lost her only home, she flees to the London home where her brother is. Not wanting to know the full extent of their situation, Grace only tells part of what happened to her brother.
Daniel Throckmorton is a self made man. His father was a brilliant composer, his mother has only one great composition. That music caused a great scandal to the family. Still in morning for their lost both mother and son give up music. So Daniel rings himself liking for creative outlites.
Gambling and mistresses are among the many ways he passes his time. Enter Grace, as Daniel goes to see how empty the house is he won in a card game, there she is. Grace seeing this as a way to get the seed money to help herself and her brother posses a challenge to Daniel.
As the challenge is view differently by each, they near the end when the true villain enters the picture. With a scandal threatening to bring her down, friends, family, and new acquaintance rally around her.
The best marriage proposal is given that will bring tears to your eye. Although the storyline drags in a few places, the characters and plot will have you engrossed and hopeful of a blessed outcome.
May 2, 2024
I really didn't like the "hero" and the heroine wasn't much better. The plot pretty much doomed them both to unlikeability. Grace, the heroine, discovers that her mother has gambled away everything they own, including a cherished, vauable, antique violin and the right to court her exclusively. Daniel wants the violin and so wins the pot which includes the courting rights. He doesn't want to court Grace as he's not interested in marriage, but makes a bet with her that he can seduce her within 2 weeks. If he loses, she can have the violin. A guy who would take advantage of a desperate virginal stranger in this way is a creep, in my opinion. She, in desperation, accepts. He insists he will win, because he is so skilled at seduction (creepy, no?). She not only gets onto first name terms with him right away, but is sexually attracted to him. Will she? Won't she? There's some concern about her reputation mentioned once in a while during these seduction attempts, but no one seems concerned about the possibilty of an unwanted pregnancy. Sorry but this just wasn't my cup of tea.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2024
Daniel Throckmorten had gambled with a woman and won her daughter to marry and both her homes!
This daughter is Grace Banbury! Grace is advised of what happened and she is shocked and dismayed to come to an almost empty townhouse devoid of servants!
I am somewhat confused about them both being adamant against marriage and why Grace thought it better to be a mistress!
Daniel would have to work for even that! This wager is for her “virtue” and a very valuable violin!
The wager proves challenging as they can barely keep their hands off each other but Grace does draw on her past bitter experiences!
But the past doesn’t stay buried and Daniel hires servants and shows much more of his true character than either knew he possessed!
When there is blackmail afoot can Grace trust Daniel to assist her and not besmirch her name!?
Grace wants to reform Daniels image to the Ton! Can she or will they always remember the scandal attached to his parents?
Daniel at times does a lot of manipulation but then grows a conscious!
When Grace is literally exhausted all of her resolve can she still win!? It certainly looks like loosing!
Bravo I have books from this author but previously unread! Definitely enjoying this series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This daughter is Grace Banbury! Grace is advised of what happened and she is shocked and dismayed to come to an almost empty townhouse devoid of servants!
I am somewhat confused about them both being adamant against marriage and why Grace thought it better to be a mistress!
Daniel would have to work for even that! This wager is for her “virtue” and a very valuable violin!
The wager proves challenging as they can barely keep their hands off each other but Grace does draw on her past bitter experiences!
But the past doesn’t stay buried and Daniel hires servants and shows much more of his true character than either knew he possessed!
When there is blackmail afoot can Grace trust Daniel to assist her and not besmirch her name!?
Grace wants to reform Daniels image to the Ton! Can she or will they always remember the scandal attached to his parents?
Daniel at times does a lot of manipulation but then grows a conscious!
When Grace is literally exhausted all of her resolve can she still win!? It certainly looks like loosing!
Bravo I have books from this author but previously unread! Definitely enjoying this series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2024
Daniel was a rake with a reputation for gambling. Grace came from a family that had been ruined by gambling. Things came to a head when Grace's mother gambled away her own daughter's hand in marriage. Grace's mother had already gambled away everything of value including their home and property. To a lesser scale, Grace's brother Edward was also addicted to gambling.
Luckily for Grace, Daniel was a man with a conscience. Although, he was attracted to Grace, Daniel was offended at the idea of her future being stolen from her. He had no intention of marrying her, so he proposed a challenge which would allow her to regain a valuable family asset. The only thing Grace had to do, was to resist his masterful attempts at seduction for two whole weeks. Unsurprisingly, Daniel was a master of seduction. Making the challenge even tougher, Grace began seeing him as less of a rake and more of a compassionate man that had been misjudged by society.
See where things are heading? This was a steamy read with some interesting family dynamics. It did feel like it was a bit lengthy though.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Luckily for Grace, Daniel was a man with a conscience. Although, he was attracted to Grace, Daniel was offended at the idea of her future being stolen from her. He had no intention of marrying her, so he proposed a challenge which would allow her to regain a valuable family asset. The only thing Grace had to do, was to resist his masterful attempts at seduction for two whole weeks. Unsurprisingly, Daniel was a master of seduction. Making the challenge even tougher, Grace began seeing him as less of a rake and more of a compassionate man that had been misjudged by society.
See where things are heading? This was a steamy read with some interesting family dynamics. It did feel like it was a bit lengthy though.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2024
This is the first book of the series Sons of Scandal and also my first book by this author. Grace goes to London in an attempt to save what remains of her inheritance but her mother foils her efforts by losing everything in a card game. When she arrives in London at their townhouse, she finds Daniel, the new owner. He makes her a proposition for an opportunity to win it back. He will try to seduce her, and if she is able to resist, she wins. If she loses, she becomes his mistress. Simple enough wager. But Daniel is captivated by her and has no intention of losing the wager, although it seems he might lose his heart along the way.
A well-written and entertaining read. The story was well-paced and the chemistry really sizzled between the characters. An enjoyable story and I look forward to reading the next installment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A well-written and entertaining read. The story was well-paced and the chemistry really sizzled between the characters. An enjoyable story and I look forward to reading the next installment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2018
Ik heb de Nederlandstalige uitgave gelezen : Candlelight Historische roman 864 - Liefde als inzet .
Dit is deel 1 van een 3 delige serie maar is ook losjes verbonden met het laatste boek ( CHr 829 ) van de vorige serie . Ik heb de vorige serie steeds het voordeel van de twijfel gegeven maar kom nu tot de conclusie dat ik die boeken toch te hoog gewaardeerd heb . Ik dacht eerst nog dat het misschien aan de vertaling lag of omdat de tekst behoorlijk ingekort moet zijn - het origineel heeft zo'n 50 pagina's meer - maar de regels tekst per bladzijde is ondertussen verhoogd van 31 regels ( boekje 790 ) naar 33 regels ( boekjes 812 , 829 ) naar in dit deel 36 regels . Helaas verbeterd het naar mijn smaak niets , de auteur heeft best een leuk verhaal te vertellen maar de manier waarop ze dat doet past niet bij mij .
Dit is deel 1 van een 3 delige serie maar is ook losjes verbonden met het laatste boek ( CHr 829 ) van de vorige serie . Ik heb de vorige serie steeds het voordeel van de twijfel gegeven maar kom nu tot de conclusie dat ik die boeken toch te hoog gewaardeerd heb . Ik dacht eerst nog dat het misschien aan de vertaling lag of omdat de tekst behoorlijk ingekort moet zijn - het origineel heeft zo'n 50 pagina's meer - maar de regels tekst per bladzijde is ondertussen verhoogd van 31 regels ( boekje 790 ) naar 33 regels ( boekjes 812 , 829 ) naar in dit deel 36 regels . Helaas verbeterd het naar mijn smaak niets , de auteur heeft best een leuk verhaal te vertellen maar de manier waarop ze dat doet past niet bij mij .
May 13, 2024
Although the story has a promising beginning, and the author certainly does not write badly, this story did not captivate me. I noticed a slight reluctance to finish it, and it also took me longer to finish than usual. I initially didn't like the male main character, I found him too selfish in his pursuit of the female character, but he improved and there were more sides to him. Both main characters occasionally did things that made no sense to me. The story has a slow pace, but some developments happen much too quickly and are not worked out well. I found the ending and outcome of their bet a bit disappointing. The story fell flat for me. I did found the attraction between the two to be credible, and there were some entertaining parts.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2024
The two characters, Grace and Daniel, are a truly engaging pair. The to and fro play between them to win their wager is wonderful. Grace is not a pushover and smart to dig below the surface of this scoundrel, allowing the reader to see so much more. Daniel embodies his role by being naughty at every turn. As Grace thwarts his plans, the enlightenment in Daniel gave the story a timely twist without seeming rushed. This is a build up of emotions that use every page of the book. In the end, the winner of the wager is - the reader! I couldn't put this story down. It is my first book by Gayle Callen, but it certainly won't be my last.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 6, 2024
Grace has a BIG problem…her mother. And now mother has left her …in a very BIG mess! Daniel can charm the dress right off of any woman…except Grace! I loved how the author weaved their story in such a beautiful fashion. Grace trying to make him better and Daniel realizing the battle is within himself. Edward’s issues were written very realistically and it was good to see how changed he became as well. I will admit, I was rather angry at Daniel’s suggestion, taking advantage of a situation that Grace couldn’t control, but it takes a good writer to illicit so many different emotions within the story. A real treasure, this one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 16, 2024
Grace Banbury’s mother likes to gamble, but isn’t very good at it. Grace is flabbergasted when she learns her mother has lost both their homes. When she meets Daniel Throckmorten at the townhouse, which he now owns, her shock increases. It seems the last thing her mother gambled away was her. This is a very enjoyable story. I like Daniel and Grace. They face an awkward situation, a jealous suitor, and a scandalous wager, or challenge as Grace calls it. The story has a bit of drama, some humor, snarky banter, a heroine with an independent streak, and a hero who is determined to protect her. I look forward to the next book.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
May 15, 2024
Never trust a scoundrel, never trust your heart
Grace’s mother is a compulsive gambler and has staked the right to court and marry her daughter at the card table. Grace runs away to London and her brother only to arrive at a house emptied of anything of value. Grace understands that her brother follows in her mother’s footsteps. Their London townhouse has been lost to the same gambler who essentially won Grace.
What will happen to the siblings now? Can she agree to a scandalous bet for a chance to recuperate a very precious and ancient violin?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Grace’s mother is a compulsive gambler and has staked the right to court and marry her daughter at the card table. Grace runs away to London and her brother only to arrive at a house emptied of anything of value. Grace understands that her brother follows in her mother’s footsteps. Their London townhouse has been lost to the same gambler who essentially won Grace.
What will happen to the siblings now? Can she agree to a scandalous bet for a chance to recuperate a very precious and ancient violin?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2024
I felt very uncomfortable reading this novel as Grace becomes a pawn in the lives of not only her family but the other players in the game that brought about her downfall. Fortunately, she is a spirited character and is able to rise above the circumstances and I was also glad that Daniel and Grace eventually found mutual respect for one another. I see that this book is the first in a series, but hope that the ensuing novels will have less manipulation and conniving. I received a copy of this romance as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
abandoned-dnf
January 18, 2021DNF @ page 71
This wasn't bad but I wasn't being gripped and there seemed to be something missing. I checked out some other reviews, to see if I should continue, and unfortunately there were some reviews that were saying the romance wasn't great, when they were together there wasn't the passion there, and the story was fine but not amazing. So I decided to stop instead of continue reading what for me would probably be a 'meh' read.
This wasn't bad but I wasn't being gripped and there seemed to be something missing. I checked out some other reviews, to see if I should continue, and unfortunately there were some reviews that were saying the romance wasn't great, when they were together there wasn't the passion there, and the story was fine but not amazing. So I decided to stop instead of continue reading what for me would probably be a 'meh' read.
May 12, 2024
This is the first book on the "Sons of Scandal" trilogy. The story was very entertaining, engaging, and original. It began with an intense high stakes poker game. It also told of a lost inheritance, past tragedies, old and new scandals. It also included humor, blackmail, wit, misconceptions, misunderstandings, wagers lost and won, and an intense romance with some lovely steam. I enjoyed the delightful characters and how the story ended happily. I highly recommend reading!
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