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Bachelor Chronicles #8.5
Mad About the Major: An Aristocrat Escapes an Arranged Marriage with Three Tempting Favors―A Scandalous Regency Romance
The pampered daughter of a duke …
Lady Arabella Tremont has spent her entire life protected and overshadowed by her restrictive father. But she is a Tremont, after all, and the morning after she is nearly ruined at a ball by a handsome stranger, Arabella's father demands she make an arranged match with the heir to a dukedom. In desperation, Arabella takes matters into her own hands.
Takes a London holiday with the most unsuitable of chaperones …
Major Kingsley is in London to avoid his parents' dreadful house party. To his surprise he runs into the enticing—and unforgettable—minx he met at a ball the previous night. Arabella, or Birdie, as he knows her, insists he owes her three favors—for he's put her in a terrible pinch. Kingsley agrees, if only to delay his trip home and because the notion of spending the day with this enchanting bit of muslin is too tempting to resist. But all too quickly he discovers Arabella's requests are hardly what he expected …
Lady Arabella Tremont has spent her entire life protected and overshadowed by her restrictive father. But she is a Tremont, after all, and the morning after she is nearly ruined at a ball by a handsome stranger, Arabella's father demands she make an arranged match with the heir to a dukedom. In desperation, Arabella takes matters into her own hands.
Takes a London holiday with the most unsuitable of chaperones …
Major Kingsley is in London to avoid his parents' dreadful house party. To his surprise he runs into the enticing—and unforgettable—minx he met at a ball the previous night. Arabella, or Birdie, as he knows her, insists he owes her three favors—for he's put her in a terrible pinch. Kingsley agrees, if only to delay his trip home and because the notion of spending the day with this enchanting bit of muslin is too tempting to resist. But all too quickly he discovers Arabella's requests are hardly what he expected …
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 2, 2015
72 people are currently reading
670 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Boyle
93 books2,085 followersElizabeth Boyle is the New York Times bestselling author of 27 historical romance novels and several novellas. Her upcoming novel, O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM, is a mix of women's fiction and historical fiction, with a bit of magic thrown in. This story of friendship and empowerment is already getting rave reviews.
Her first novel, Brazen Angel, won Dell's Diamond Debut Award and the Romance Writers of America's RITA Award for Best First Book. Her books are called "fast-paced," "adventurous," and "funny."
Not sure where to begin? If you love adventure, try THIS RAKE OF MINE or ONE NIGHT OF PASSION.
If you need to laugh, SOMETHING ABOUT EMMALINE, LOVE LETTERS FROM A DUKE, or THE VISCOUNT WHO LIVED DOWN THE LANE.
Want a little magic in your romance? Try HIS MISTRESS BY MORNING.
When not writing, Elizabeth enjoys knitting, gardening, travel and reading a wide variety of stories. She lives with her family in Seattle.
Sign up for her weekly newsletter, Five Things for Friday on her website. A weekly roundup of books, shows, and things to cook or laugh over, her readers love this weekly laugh.
Her first novel, Brazen Angel, won Dell's Diamond Debut Award and the Romance Writers of America's RITA Award for Best First Book. Her books are called "fast-paced," "adventurous," and "funny."
Not sure where to begin? If you love adventure, try THIS RAKE OF MINE or ONE NIGHT OF PASSION.
If you need to laugh, SOMETHING ABOUT EMMALINE, LOVE LETTERS FROM A DUKE, or THE VISCOUNT WHO LIVED DOWN THE LANE.
Want a little magic in your romance? Try HIS MISTRESS BY MORNING.
When not writing, Elizabeth enjoys knitting, gardening, travel and reading a wide variety of stories. She lives with her family in Seattle.
Sign up for her weekly newsletter, Five Things for Friday on her website. A weekly roundup of books, shows, and things to cook or laugh over, her readers love this weekly laugh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
October 6, 2015
Cute story. Great Narration! (audible review)
This was such a cute story. I really enjoyed it. I loved the hero Kingsley, he was strong, smart, handsome and just great. And the heroine, Arabella/aka Birdie what very beautiful, witty and funny. These two had some great chemistry and a really nice sex scene.
There was instant attraction, but they really get to know each other. It was great.
The story line and plot was great. I loved the mistaken identity theme. And the the adventures they had were fun. The story flowed very nicely and was easy to follow along.
I did think there was a bit more inner dialogue rather than dialogue between the characters. But what dialogue there was, was really great and there was some funny moments for sure.
As for the narration, It was good. I really enjoy her narrations, the men sound like men and the hero's always sound sexy. Everyone gets their own distinct voice and she reads with all the emotions the story calls for, ie whispering, yelling, grunting etc. However, this one she did tend to read in that sing song voice, which is strange because she had cut down on that a bit in a few previous books. But it was still a good narration.
This was such a cute story. I really enjoyed it. I loved the hero Kingsley, he was strong, smart, handsome and just great. And the heroine, Arabella/aka Birdie what very beautiful, witty and funny. These two had some great chemistry and a really nice sex scene.
There was instant attraction, but they really get to know each other. It was great.
The story line and plot was great. I loved the mistaken identity theme. And the the adventures they had were fun. The story flowed very nicely and was easy to follow along.
I did think there was a bit more inner dialogue rather than dialogue between the characters. But what dialogue there was, was really great and there was some funny moments for sure.
As for the narration, It was good. I really enjoy her narrations, the men sound like men and the hero's always sound sexy. Everyone gets their own distinct voice and she reads with all the emotions the story calls for, ie whispering, yelling, grunting etc. However, this one she did tend to read in that sing song voice, which is strange because she had cut down on that a bit in a few previous books. But it was still a good narration.
dnf
December 11, 2025DNF at 24%
She’s an idiot
12.11.25
She’s an idiot
12.11.25
July 14, 2015
TSTL.
July 20, 2015
If there is a heroine in a historical romance that I like less than this one, I can't remember her right now. The hero, "Major Kingsley," was a bit better. I thought he was an idiot, but at least I didn't have the complete feelings of disgust I had for the heroine, "Birdie." If you want to read a book about a sheltered woman who wants a bit of adventure and drags the hero along with her, then read Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean.
July 16, 2018
Sweetly predictable. If this book were a biscuit, it would be a custard cream. MATM passed a pleasant hour or so, and I enjoyed it, but forgot about it immediately.
June 19, 2021
I couldn't stand the heroin. She is a whiny, spoiled, bitch.
November 13, 2018
Very silly and the plot is obvious, but better than most.
June 4, 2015
Two young people meet, both being forced into arranged marriages…
Mad About the Major - Lady Arabella Tremont and Major Kingsley meet under less than auspicious circumstances at a Masquerade ball. As a result of a silly prank and a wager by his drunken friend, Kingsley makes a sexual overture and some rather risqué and lascivious comments to the young woman dressed as a milkmaid, whom he believes to be a famous courtesan. In actual fact, she is the pretty daughter of the Duke of Parkerton, and is saved by the intervention of her father, who blacks the Major’s eye – and that would appear to be the end of it. However, despite her shock at the comments made to her, Arabella (or Birdie as she is known by her family), is secretly intrigued and not a little excited by the inappropriate suggestions made to her about what the handsome, dashing young officer would like to do to her body.
Arabella has been cosseted and spoiled by her overprotective, autocratic but loving father and after her near ruination he has decided that enough is enough, and that as four seasons have not produced a betrothal, she must marry a man of his choosing. Kingsley faces a similar situation; having managed to avoid the inevitable for four years by joining the army and with no more wars to fight, he must now do his duty and marry a young lady of his father’s choosing.
On the way to meet ‘her doom’ Arabella escapes the restrictive confines of her family and bumps into the Major whilst making her bid for freedom. He is gloomily on his way to his parents’ ‘marriage mart’ house party and is easily persuaded by the impetuous and beautiful Arabella to abscond with her for the day, and by way of reparation to make three wishes – of her choosing – come true.
Obviously it doesn’t take a mastermind to work out the direction this story will take and how it will end! Two of Arabella’s wishes are ridiculous; one of them I could just about understand but the other two – well this is Romancelandia so anything goes.
The writing is sound, although I take exception to the number of Americanisms dotted throughout. This is a real bug-bear of mine – if you’re writing about an American setting then of course, using words like sidewalk, block and gotten is fine. In Regency England, however, one would find pavements, streets and got is the past tense of get. I fail to understand how authors and editors allow this sort of thing to happen when a huge amount of research has gone into the rest of the writing. Why not go the whole hog and get it ALL right?
That’s obviously down to personal preference, but because it did affect my overall enjoyment of the book, it’s something that needs to be said. Overall, then, Mad About the Major is a pleasant and even sweet romance, that is well written (apart from my niggles). The hero and heroine are engaging characters, although ultimately unmemorable, there is no villain, no real conflict and not much of a plot, so overall the book is too lacking in substance for my taste. It’s a light, fluffy love story and if that’s what you are looking for, then it might well appeal. 3.5 stars
I received an ARC from Edelweiss
Mad About the Major - Lady Arabella Tremont and Major Kingsley meet under less than auspicious circumstances at a Masquerade ball. As a result of a silly prank and a wager by his drunken friend, Kingsley makes a sexual overture and some rather risqué and lascivious comments to the young woman dressed as a milkmaid, whom he believes to be a famous courtesan. In actual fact, she is the pretty daughter of the Duke of Parkerton, and is saved by the intervention of her father, who blacks the Major’s eye – and that would appear to be the end of it. However, despite her shock at the comments made to her, Arabella (or Birdie as she is known by her family), is secretly intrigued and not a little excited by the inappropriate suggestions made to her about what the handsome, dashing young officer would like to do to her body.
Arabella has been cosseted and spoiled by her overprotective, autocratic but loving father and after her near ruination he has decided that enough is enough, and that as four seasons have not produced a betrothal, she must marry a man of his choosing. Kingsley faces a similar situation; having managed to avoid the inevitable for four years by joining the army and with no more wars to fight, he must now do his duty and marry a young lady of his father’s choosing.
On the way to meet ‘her doom’ Arabella escapes the restrictive confines of her family and bumps into the Major whilst making her bid for freedom. He is gloomily on his way to his parents’ ‘marriage mart’ house party and is easily persuaded by the impetuous and beautiful Arabella to abscond with her for the day, and by way of reparation to make three wishes – of her choosing – come true.
Obviously it doesn’t take a mastermind to work out the direction this story will take and how it will end! Two of Arabella’s wishes are ridiculous; one of them I could just about understand but the other two – well this is Romancelandia so anything goes.
The writing is sound, although I take exception to the number of Americanisms dotted throughout. This is a real bug-bear of mine – if you’re writing about an American setting then of course, using words like sidewalk, block and gotten is fine. In Regency England, however, one would find pavements, streets and got is the past tense of get. I fail to understand how authors and editors allow this sort of thing to happen when a huge amount of research has gone into the rest of the writing. Why not go the whole hog and get it ALL right?
That’s obviously down to personal preference, but because it did affect my overall enjoyment of the book, it’s something that needs to be said. Overall, then, Mad About the Major is a pleasant and even sweet romance, that is well written (apart from my niggles). The hero and heroine are engaging characters, although ultimately unmemorable, there is no villain, no real conflict and not much of a plot, so overall the book is too lacking in substance for my taste. It’s a light, fluffy love story and if that’s what you are looking for, then it might well appeal. 3.5 stars
I received an ARC from Edelweiss
June 1, 2015
Mad About the Major is an absolutely adorable Regency version of Roman Holiday--with the HEA the original couldn't give us! (Sorry, honey, it's true. It never would have worked out the way you want it to--and how surprising is it that I'm the voice of reason in this particular situation?)
Though it relies heavily on a few pretty big coincidences, I really just enjoyed the heck out of this fairly short and sweet novel. I was about 2/3 of the way through when I had to take a quick break and pick up copies of two of the other books in the series--Birdie's dad's story ( Mad about the Duke ) and her Uncle Jack's ( This Rake of Mine )--and the two of them weren't even in the story all that much! I really liked Ms. Doyle's writing style, though, and what we did see of them was just tempting enough that I've got to learn their stories too. :)
Birdie and Major Kingsley's London adventure is set in motion by a wager--while at a masquerade ball, Kingsley is lead to believe that Birdie's a well-known courtesan and takes some outrageous liberties. Perhaps the most outrageous part, though, is that Birdie doesn't quite react the way a proper female should.
So when they run (literally, in Birdie's case) into each other again a few days later, it doesn't take a whole heck of a lot to convince him that he's got to be the one to rescue her from herself. Because Birdie won't last five minutes on her own in London, as she ably shows right away...
And the rest is history. Nothing too shocking or surprising here--really, you can see the big reveal coming from about five miles away--but just a terribly fun way to spend a rainy morning. Or afternoon. Or evening. All while dreaming of your own London adventure...
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Though it relies heavily on a few pretty big coincidences, I really just enjoyed the heck out of this fairly short and sweet novel. I was about 2/3 of the way through when I had to take a quick break and pick up copies of two of the other books in the series--Birdie's dad's story ( Mad about the Duke ) and her Uncle Jack's ( This Rake of Mine )--and the two of them weren't even in the story all that much! I really liked Ms. Doyle's writing style, though, and what we did see of them was just tempting enough that I've got to learn their stories too. :)
Birdie and Major Kingsley's London adventure is set in motion by a wager--while at a masquerade ball, Kingsley is lead to believe that Birdie's a well-known courtesan and takes some outrageous liberties. Perhaps the most outrageous part, though, is that Birdie doesn't quite react the way a proper female should.
Oh, heaven help her! Whatever was he doing with his tongue?In spite of the fact that he gets a black eye for his impertinence--courtesy of her father the duke, though neither gentleman gets a sufficient look at the other--Kingsley can't stop thinking of her. And the feeling's mutual.
Truly, he should cease such improprieties immediately.
Or very soon.
So when they run (literally, in Birdie's case) into each other again a few days later, it doesn't take a whole heck of a lot to convince him that he's got to be the one to rescue her from herself. Because Birdie won't last five minutes on her own in London, as she ably shows right away...
And the rest is history. Nothing too shocking or surprising here--really, you can see the big reveal coming from about five miles away--but just a terribly fun way to spend a rainy morning. Or afternoon. Or evening. All while dreaming of your own London adventure...
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2015
Back in London after returning from the War, Major Kingsley is attending a masquerade ball in hope of meeting a widow or a courtesan. His father wants him married soon, the Major is not interested but what is he to do? On a dare from a friend, he espies a lovely milkmaid whom he propositions, under the impression she is a courtesan. The milkmaid is Lady Arabella Tremont, known to her friends as Birdie. She doesn’t set him right but she doesn’t openly rebuke him either; she is very much intrigued by the handsome Major. Birdie is nearly compromised, and her father is now positive she needs to get married sooner than later. Birdie, apart from being aghast that she will have to marry someone she doesn’t know, probably a doddering old duke, decides that she will have at least one day to herself. A few weeks later, she encounters quite fortuitously Kingsley, as she knows the Major, and she tells him that to atone for his forward behaviour, he is to help her enjoy her day of freedom. And thus begins Lady Arabella’s day out.
MAD ABOUT THE MAJOR is a novella that ties in with the Bachelor Chronicles series, but can be read as standalone without any problem. MAD ABOUT THE MAJOR is a charming little romp about mistaken identities and lies of omission, masterfully handled by Elizabeth Boyle. Ms. Boyle is in fine form as Birdie and Kingsley traipse around in Regency London; they get to know each other as we sit back and enjoy. The author, regardless of the number of pages, still gives us all we need to know about the main characters, who are both very engaging, and their banter is witty and amusing. MAD ABOUT THE MAJOR is beautifully written, and I love that the author adheres to the era’s proper usage of English. The ending is understandably predictable, but getting there is a most delightful voyage!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
MAD ABOUT THE MAJOR is a novella that ties in with the Bachelor Chronicles series, but can be read as standalone without any problem. MAD ABOUT THE MAJOR is a charming little romp about mistaken identities and lies of omission, masterfully handled by Elizabeth Boyle. Ms. Boyle is in fine form as Birdie and Kingsley traipse around in Regency London; they get to know each other as we sit back and enjoy. The author, regardless of the number of pages, still gives us all we need to know about the main characters, who are both very engaging, and their banter is witty and amusing. MAD ABOUT THE MAJOR is beautifully written, and I love that the author adheres to the era’s proper usage of English. The ending is understandably predictable, but getting there is a most delightful voyage!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 30, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up for an enjoyable listen.
Susan Deurden does a nice job reading this HR romcom.
Birdie and Kingsley who are betrothed to others.
They meet at a ball. He thinks she is someone else and makes some VERY improper suggestions. Then they meet again later when she makes a runner from her parents and their plans to force her to marry the son of a dear friend. She chafes at the restrictions of life as a woman back then, and talks him into 3 boons before she must marry a man she has never met.
He also must marry a woman he has never met and decides one last adventure before the marriage noose would be a good idea. They still don't know each other's real names and are intentionally keeping it that way.
Her choices of boons weren't predictable and created a lot of fun comical situations. I felt at first that a lot of the humour was at her expense because of her naivety, but once the H started to see things from her POV, he became a better H. And she was a big enough person to be able to laugh at herself.
The overall plot was pretty obvious from the get go, but I didn't mind and I don't know that the author truly meant for it to be a surprise twist anyways. It wasn't the destination of the story that mattered but the journey getting there.
I liked the way the H and h grew close over time
The ending was a comedy of errors but sweet just the same.
Safety is good
Susan Deurden does a nice job reading this HR romcom.
Birdie and Kingsley who are betrothed to others.
They meet at a ball. He thinks she is someone else and makes some VERY improper suggestions. Then they meet again later when she makes a runner from her parents and their plans to force her to marry the son of a dear friend. She chafes at the restrictions of life as a woman back then, and talks him into 3 boons before she must marry a man she has never met.
He also must marry a woman he has never met and decides one last adventure before the marriage noose would be a good idea. They still don't know each other's real names and are intentionally keeping it that way.
Her choices of boons weren't predictable and created a lot of fun comical situations. I felt at first that a lot of the humour was at her expense because of her naivety, but once the H started to see things from her POV, he became a better H. And she was a big enough person to be able to laugh at herself.
The overall plot was pretty obvious from the get go, but I didn't mind and I don't know that the author truly meant for it to be a surprise twist anyways. It wasn't the destination of the story that mattered but the journey getting there.
I liked the way the H and h grew close over time
The ending was a comedy of errors but sweet just the same.
Safety is good
June 2, 2015
I'm going to make this short, I loved this story! Ideally, I normally prefer romance stories to be full-length novels rather than novellas, yet there was much left to be desired about this story.
To begin with Boyle outshined fellow authors in the industry as she always delivers in both romance in plot. The thing I love most about the author is the bold fact that I never feel like I'm reading the same book twice and in today's industry I think it is difficult to find such an author. So I'm thrilled whenever I get the chance to review a Boyle novel.
Highlighting the romance in a further step I greatly loved the story of Major Kingsley and Arabella. Their story was the ideal romance for me. Kingsley himself was very masculine which might seem odd to mention when discussing romance, but I find that many heroes in novels are often missing their more manly-like qualities. I tend to favor a tough, alpha hero is capable of sweeping the heroine off her feet.
As for Arabella I liked her character equally as well. At first I wondered if she would be worthy of a man like the Major, but then I soon realized that such a match was meant to be and this is one courtship/marriage that I did enjoy and has quickly became a favorite of mine.
-I wrote this review for Night Owl Reviews. All copyrights sorely belong to NOR. The review cannot be copied or nor shared beyond this blog. To read more of this review please click the link that has been provided.
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
To begin with Boyle outshined fellow authors in the industry as she always delivers in both romance in plot. The thing I love most about the author is the bold fact that I never feel like I'm reading the same book twice and in today's industry I think it is difficult to find such an author. So I'm thrilled whenever I get the chance to review a Boyle novel.
Highlighting the romance in a further step I greatly loved the story of Major Kingsley and Arabella. Their story was the ideal romance for me. Kingsley himself was very masculine which might seem odd to mention when discussing romance, but I find that many heroes in novels are often missing their more manly-like qualities. I tend to favor a tough, alpha hero is capable of sweeping the heroine off her feet.
As for Arabella I liked her character equally as well. At first I wondered if she would be worthy of a man like the Major, but then I soon realized that such a match was meant to be and this is one courtship/marriage that I did enjoy and has quickly became a favorite of mine.
-I wrote this review for Night Owl Reviews. All copyrights sorely belong to NOR. The review cannot be copied or nor shared beyond this blog. To read more of this review please click the link that has been provided.
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
June 8, 2015
"For he was doing what no other man had ever dared—breaching the high, proper walls that were her due as an heiress and the pampered daughter of a duke. Why, the rogue was peeling her glove off with a slow deliberateness, as if it was common practice to remove a lady’s glove."
There are so many tropes that occur in romance novels. There are often scandals, marriages of convenience, women compromised, dukes and rakes. One of my favorite scenarios is mistaken identity. That is where this fun, short romance starts. Kingsley, the hero thinks Lady Tremont is "no better than she ought to be", rather than a sheltered daughter of a duke.
Since they are both trying to avoid marriage, their escapades become a bit far fetched. However, anyone who is looking for realism in this genre will be disappointed.
I had a great time reading along as another romance follows the standard arc of such books. If you like this type of novel, you can't go wrong with Elizabeth Boyle.
If you enjoy historical romance you might like this blog post: http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com.... The Internet is an incredible place, I never know what I might learn with a simple Google search.
Thank you to Avon Impulse and Edelweiss for a delightful few hours.
There are so many tropes that occur in romance novels. There are often scandals, marriages of convenience, women compromised, dukes and rakes. One of my favorite scenarios is mistaken identity. That is where this fun, short romance starts. Kingsley, the hero thinks Lady Tremont is "no better than she ought to be", rather than a sheltered daughter of a duke.
Since they are both trying to avoid marriage, their escapades become a bit far fetched. However, anyone who is looking for realism in this genre will be disappointed.
I had a great time reading along as another romance follows the standard arc of such books. If you like this type of novel, you can't go wrong with Elizabeth Boyle.
If you enjoy historical romance you might like this blog post: http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com.... The Internet is an incredible place, I never know what I might learn with a simple Google search.
Thank you to Avon Impulse and Edelweiss for a delightful few hours.
August 31, 2016
Posted on What I'm Reading
First off, I haven't read any of the previous books in the series, and I was able to keep up with the story with no problem. The story focuses on Arabella Tremont (Birdie) and Major Kingsley. Basically, Arabella wants to have an adventure before she marries this fuddy-duddy heir to a dukedom. She happens to run into Kingsley who is the reason she has to marry the fuddy-duddy. Basically, Arabella and Kingsley have an adventure.
Super cute read. Arabella's exuberance is contagious and Kingsley can't see how he can live without her. They both draw closer as the story progress. Mad About the Major is a fun let go of your problems kind of read. Yes, it's a bit predictable, but it's fluff read. Sit back and relax and watch these two enjoy a scandalous adventure.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss (but I did purchase the book).
First off, I haven't read any of the previous books in the series, and I was able to keep up with the story with no problem. The story focuses on Arabella Tremont (Birdie) and Major Kingsley. Basically, Arabella wants to have an adventure before she marries this fuddy-duddy heir to a dukedom. She happens to run into Kingsley who is the reason she has to marry the fuddy-duddy. Basically, Arabella and Kingsley have an adventure.
Super cute read. Arabella's exuberance is contagious and Kingsley can't see how he can live without her. They both draw closer as the story progress. Mad About the Major is a fun let go of your problems kind of read. Yes, it's a bit predictable, but it's fluff read. Sit back and relax and watch these two enjoy a scandalous adventure.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss (but I did purchase the book).
October 15, 2015
Nice romance..
This was a cute story. I really liked both Kingsley and Arabella, she was more than a little goofy and he was willing to go along with her crazy plans. The funniest thing about the story is what he said to her at the masquerade ball when he thought she was Mrs. Spenser. That was just hysterical. And I liked Mrs. Spenser, too, but I felt sorry for her. I don’t know why. I’m going to see if there’s a story about her or are we just left to wonder what her story is. I liked Augie, too. He was such a great character, as was Roscoe.
There was some nice sexual tension and then some great sex. It was a sweet and sensual love story.
This was a cute story. I really liked both Kingsley and Arabella, she was more than a little goofy and he was willing to go along with her crazy plans. The funniest thing about the story is what he said to her at the masquerade ball when he thought she was Mrs. Spenser. That was just hysterical. And I liked Mrs. Spenser, too, but I felt sorry for her. I don’t know why. I’m going to see if there’s a story about her or are we just left to wonder what her story is. I liked Augie, too. He was such a great character, as was Roscoe.
There was some nice sexual tension and then some great sex. It was a sweet and sensual love story.
May 14, 2015
Pub date: June 2, 2015
Very cute romance! Even though I knew where its heading, I really enjoyed Birdie's and Kingsley's London adventures, as they fall in love. Flirtation leading to passion, the type that leaves you fanning yourself and sighing, is what Ms Boyle does best!
Very cute romance! Even though I knew where its heading, I really enjoyed Birdie's and Kingsley's London adventures, as they fall in love. Flirtation leading to passion, the type that leaves you fanning yourself and sighing, is what Ms Boyle does best!
August 3, 2015
Some of this reads so much like "Lady Ann's Excellent Adventure" by Candice Hern I kept wondering if I was reading the same thing or if I had read this story already. Not sure how I feel about that. Maybe it's a sexed up retelling?
June 3, 2015
I loved the romance of this couple and read it in one day. It is a short novella but it seemed the right amount for their story. I had such a good feeling at the end of the story with their HEA.
June 4, 2015
An enjoyable romp based on mistaken identities. The love affair is sudden, but it was a fun adventure. This is a nice, lighthearted novella.
January 7, 2020
The characters in this book are stupid especially the female character. She is annoying.
August 5, 2017
"Mad About The Major" by Elizabeth Boyle 2015
A Bachelor Chronicles Short Novel (205 pages)
Major Kingsley was avoiding going to his parent's house party as they have arranged a marriage for him that he couldn't see any way of getting out of. He has decided to have as much fun as he can so while at a masquerade party an acquaintance told him of a courtesan who was attending the party. She had set up a wager of a monkey and the pleasure of her company for anyone who recognised her. This acquaintance told him he would point her out because he was proud to call the Major his hero. This acquaintance pointed to the loveliest creature Kingsley had ever seen. Against his better judgement he accepted the wager and started confidently toward her.
Lady Arabella Tremont was dressed as a milkmaid so when the gentleman with a rich deep voice said "Oh, fair Milkmaid" she nearly sighed She'd heard so many compliments and all said how madly in love they were with her and probably her dowry as she was the Duke of Parkerton's only daughter.
He lead her out into the garden. He started pulling off her gloves and his touch was sending the most dangerous tendrils of desire through her. He told her he had heard about her and that none of the tributes were exaggerated. He then began to tell her what he wanted her to do to him and what he would do to her. Arabella's mouth fell open having never been spoken to as he had done. Then he said "My lovely Mrs. Spencer..... Since I have discovered you first I understand I have earned me a perfect night.
She gasped " I am not Mrs. Spencer!!"
Then he realized that his so called friend had set him up.
The next thing he knew the Duke of Parkerton landed Major Kingsley a hard fisted blow.
The next day Arabella found herself being sent away. She was to meet her new betrothed her father stated. As they were entering into the carriage a turmoil started off to the side. When her father turned his head to see what the disturbance was, Arabella saw this as an opportunity to escape and took off running.
Arabella saw Major Kingsley about two blocks down the street and Arabella had an idea. He owes her three favors for getting her into this mess.
Major Kingsley was on his way to his parent's house party so he thought one more day wouldn't hurt and it might even be fun with this enchanting bit of muslin.
Very entertaining! Happy reading!
A Bachelor Chronicles Short Novel (205 pages)
Major Kingsley was avoiding going to his parent's house party as they have arranged a marriage for him that he couldn't see any way of getting out of. He has decided to have as much fun as he can so while at a masquerade party an acquaintance told him of a courtesan who was attending the party. She had set up a wager of a monkey and the pleasure of her company for anyone who recognised her. This acquaintance told him he would point her out because he was proud to call the Major his hero. This acquaintance pointed to the loveliest creature Kingsley had ever seen. Against his better judgement he accepted the wager and started confidently toward her.
Lady Arabella Tremont was dressed as a milkmaid so when the gentleman with a rich deep voice said "Oh, fair Milkmaid" she nearly sighed She'd heard so many compliments and all said how madly in love they were with her and probably her dowry as she was the Duke of Parkerton's only daughter.
He lead her out into the garden. He started pulling off her gloves and his touch was sending the most dangerous tendrils of desire through her. He told her he had heard about her and that none of the tributes were exaggerated. He then began to tell her what he wanted her to do to him and what he would do to her. Arabella's mouth fell open having never been spoken to as he had done. Then he said "My lovely Mrs. Spencer..... Since I have discovered you first I understand I have earned me a perfect night.
She gasped " I am not Mrs. Spencer!!"
Then he realized that his so called friend had set him up.
The next thing he knew the Duke of Parkerton landed Major Kingsley a hard fisted blow.
The next day Arabella found herself being sent away. She was to meet her new betrothed her father stated. As they were entering into the carriage a turmoil started off to the side. When her father turned his head to see what the disturbance was, Arabella saw this as an opportunity to escape and took off running.
Arabella saw Major Kingsley about two blocks down the street and Arabella had an idea. He owes her three favors for getting her into this mess.
Major Kingsley was on his way to his parent's house party so he thought one more day wouldn't hurt and it might even be fun with this enchanting bit of muslin.
Very entertaining! Happy reading!
February 13, 2019
3.5 stars.
This was a fun, cute, and quick historical romance.
Listened to this on audiobook. The narrator was really good. I was surprised that this book was 230 pages because the audio book was just over 6 hours.
A moment of mistaken identity lands Major Kingsley with a black eye and Arabella being sent off to get married.
Now I don't think it's a spoiler, what happens is pretty obvious to me, but just in case this next part is behind spoiler tags.
Kingsley and Arabella were cute together. She's running away/wants a bit of freedom before she meets her betrothed and she runs into Kingsley again. He agrees to take her on a mini-adventure and it was fun.
One thing that did annoy me though,
I'll definitely read more Elizabeth Boyle in the future.
This was a fun, cute, and quick historical romance.
Listened to this on audiobook. The narrator was really good. I was surprised that this book was 230 pages because the audio book was just over 6 hours.
A moment of mistaken identity lands Major Kingsley with a black eye and Arabella being sent off to get married.
Now I don't think it's a spoiler, what happens is pretty obvious to me, but just in case this next part is behind spoiler tags.
Kingsley and Arabella were cute together. She's running away/wants a bit of freedom before she meets her betrothed and she runs into Kingsley again. He agrees to take her on a mini-adventure and it was fun.
One thing that did annoy me though,
I'll definitely read more Elizabeth Boyle in the future.
March 3, 2019
Seri için en önemli yorumumu son kitaba sakladım. Yazar seri ismi için kesinlikle yanlış bir seçimde bulunmuş. Ben olsam "Secret Identities" ismini koyardım. Kendisinde büyük oranda kimlik fetişi olduğunu bu seri sayesinde öğrenmiş bulunuyoruz.
Şu kitaba kadar baş karakterlerden sadece birinin kimliği diğer baş karakter hariç kitabın en sonuna kadar herkes tarafından bilinirdi. Yazar bu sefer işi ikiye katlamış. Yani bu kitaptaki çiftimizin ikisi de karşısındaki kimin nesidir falan hiç bilmiyorlar. Neyse ki oldukça kısa bir hikaye yazmış.
Geçen kitapta söylediğim "2 günde aşık olma" durumu bu kitapta da geçerli. Bu yönden saçma bulsam da serinin diğer kitaplarına göre baş karakterlere daha odaklı bir kitap olması "hele şükür!" dedirtti. Sanırım ilk kitap hariç ana çift yerine sürekli yan karakterlerin kitaba hiçbir katkı sağlamayan durumlarını okudum.
Normalde aşırı sıkıldığım serilere devam etmem. Artık seriye başlamışken bitireyim isteği mi yoksa başka bir şeyden ötürü mü devam ettim bilmiyorum. Fakat bitirdiğim için rahatladım. Son dört kitap ülkemizde çıkarsa kesinlikle kitaplığıma eklemeyeceğimi bilmek iyi oldu. Yazara devam eder miyim sorusu için de kesin bir şey diyemiyorum. Yazarın"Marlowe" diye iki kitaplık kısa bir serisi var. Uzun bir aradan sonra o serisine devam ederim. Yine bolca yan karakter okursam ve kimlik fetişini bir kez daha gözüme sokarsa bir daha yazarı okumam.
Şu kitaba kadar baş karakterlerden sadece birinin kimliği diğer baş karakter hariç kitabın en sonuna kadar herkes tarafından bilinirdi. Yazar bu sefer işi ikiye katlamış. Yani bu kitaptaki çiftimizin ikisi de karşısındaki kimin nesidir falan hiç bilmiyorlar. Neyse ki oldukça kısa bir hikaye yazmış.
Geçen kitapta söylediğim "2 günde aşık olma" durumu bu kitapta da geçerli. Bu yönden saçma bulsam da serinin diğer kitaplarına göre baş karakterlere daha odaklı bir kitap olması "hele şükür!" dedirtti. Sanırım ilk kitap hariç ana çift yerine sürekli yan karakterlerin kitaba hiçbir katkı sağlamayan durumlarını okudum.
Normalde aşırı sıkıldığım serilere devam etmem. Artık seriye başlamışken bitireyim isteği mi yoksa başka bir şeyden ötürü mü devam ettim bilmiyorum. Fakat bitirdiğim için rahatladım. Son dört kitap ülkemizde çıkarsa kesinlikle kitaplığıma eklemeyeceğimi bilmek iyi oldu. Yazara devam eder miyim sorusu için de kesin bir şey diyemiyorum. Yazarın"Marlowe" diye iki kitaplık kısa bir serisi var. Uzun bir aradan sonra o serisine devam ederim. Yine bolca yan karakter okursam ve kimlik fetişini bir kez daha gözüme sokarsa bir daha yazarı okumam.
December 9, 2025
Lovely novella - even though you can see the ending coming early on, the journey is fun. Arabella is the daughter of a duke, chafing at the restraints of her protected life. After a near miss at scandal at a ball where she is mistaken for a courtesan, her father is going to drag her to a house party to meet the heir to another duke, who she has been arranged to marry even though she has never met him. Kingsley is on his way to his parents house, which he has put off as long as he can after returning from the war, when he nearly runs over the girl he’d nearly mistaken for a courtesan the week before. The contrivances by which they keep from sharing their identities are ludicrous, but spending the day at a boxing match, at tea with the aforementioned courtesan, and finally breaking into a house has fun banter and chemistry. Boyle is pretty trustworthy at this point, and I will keep seeking more of her stories.
June 13, 2019
The type of book that made me re-read Arabella's parents' story (yes, I am re-reading Mad About The Duke now).
Love the story although I was a bit mad about the Duke (haven't you learned from your own love story?). Never thought the ML has that kind of secret (hence I never thought of that kind of ending) but I do love that there is no evil/bad character in this story. I wish I know more about Mrs Spenser, though.
Love the story although I was a bit mad about the Duke (haven't you learned from your own love story?). Never thought the ML has that kind of secret (hence I never thought of that kind of ending) but I do love that there is no evil/bad character in this story. I wish I know more about Mrs Spenser, though.
March 14, 2020
By accident, Arabella and Major Kingsley meet and eventually spend the day (and night) together having a wonderful adventure before they both have to go back to reality. They are both trying to avoid the arranged marriages arranged by their respective families. Neither one of them know who the other person actually is.
Will they be able to resign this one day to their memories and proceed to their new marriages and forget each other?
Will they be able to resign this one day to their memories and proceed to their new marriages and forget each other?
June 9, 2021
DANNNNG that was a short one! I listened to the whole book in a day (5-ish hours long, I think), so it's definitely not as long as some of the other books in the series. Again, a fun romp of mistaken identities and missed connections that weren't. Just too short, though. I gotta say, for the record... this heroine is even more of an idiot than usual. Sweet, not too annoying, very naive, but just overall kinda dumb.
November 21, 2016
It was cute and shmoopy and they had a great chemistry, but the entire premise - that neither of them know the actual name or anything about the person their parents have set them up to marry - in an age where young women of rank and quality read Debretts like a second bible, is completely unbelievable.
So a fun read, but you really need to suspend your critical thinking skills.
So a fun read, but you really need to suspend your critical thinking skills.
January 3, 2022
Listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the story.
Yes, you may have to suspend your disbelief for historical accuracy in certain respects (as you may have seen mentioned in other reviews), but if you’re just after a fun, quick and light story, this would be great for a few hours of entertainment.
Yes, you may have to suspend your disbelief for historical accuracy in certain respects (as you may have seen mentioned in other reviews), but if you’re just after a fun, quick and light story, this would be great for a few hours of entertainment.
March 11, 2019
This book is cute, and the concept of a single day with 3 asks is very cute, but the book didn’t go much beyond “cute” for me. I did also read this on its own outside of the series (which I think can work), but I also don’t feel a pressing need to jump into this series.
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