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Distinguished Rogues #7
Reason to Wed
Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere, might desperately require a wife and heir, but thoughts of duty fly from his mind when he rescues Esme, Lady Heathcote, from the embarrassment of a failed affair. They usually never agree about anything. He’s never even kissed the vexing widow. But when the opportunity arises to whisk her away for a no-strings-attached rendezvous, Richard can’t imagine a better way to spend a moonlit evening.
Esme has never lacked for admirers, but having Lord Windermere’s company goes a long way to ease the pain of losing her suddenly betrothed lover. And when Windermere suggests an affair, Esme is intrigued by the blazing-hot connection even while knowing their relationship has no future beyond his house party.
But as with any temptation, it’s a bargain they’ll soon regret.
Esme has never lacked for admirers, but having Lord Windermere’s company goes a long way to ease the pain of losing her suddenly betrothed lover. And when Windermere suggests an affair, Esme is intrigued by the blazing-hot connection even while knowing their relationship has no future beyond his house party.
But as with any temptation, it’s a bargain they’ll soon regret.
160 pages, Paperback
First published December 8, 2015
1213 people are currently reading
1377 people want to read
About the author
Heather Boyd
105 books753 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Heather Boyd believes every character she creates deserves their own happily-ever-after—no matter how much trouble she puts them through. With that goal in mind, she writes steamy romances that skirt the boundaries of propriety to keep readers enthralled until the wee hours of the morning. Heather has published over sixty regency romance novels and shorter works full of daring seductions and distinguished rogues. She lives north of Sydney, Australia, with her trio of rogues and a four-legged overlord. To learn more visit www.Heather-Boyd.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
December 5, 2020
Esme, Lady Heathcote, a merry widow, is friends (but nothing more) with Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere. The first thing I liked about this book is that the main couple is mature: Richard is 43 and Esme is 36 (or maybe older, as she has been known to lie about her age), so they’re downright elderly by the standards of Hollywood and historical romance!
Reluctantly recognizing the need to marry and beget heirs, Richard organizes a house party brimming with young, prospective brides. Among the guests are Esme and her current amour, but when that gentleman suddenly announces his engagement to one of the young lovelies, Richard is appalled to think of Esme suffering such embarrassment. His solution: offer to engage in an affair-of-convenience with Esme for the duration of the house party.
“Why not?” thinks Esme. It could be enjoyable and would help her save face before the other guests. Esme is already helping Richard by acting as his de facto hostess and as time passes, Richard realizes that he is becoming smitten with her. She would make a perfect countess, apart from the fact that Esme knows that she would not be a good wife for Richard, as he needs an heir and she is barren. Moreover, Esme has no interest in marrying again and surrendering her independence.
I liked Esme; she is strong and determined but not without softness. In most other Regency romances, a woman like Esme would be cast as the wicked Other Woman, but here she is a character deserving of our admiration. Richard is admirable as well. This series is called Distinguished Rogues, but I’m not sure that Richard is really a rogue. When he falls for Esme, he falls hard, and that’s always fun to watch. Esme refuses marriage, but I never felt that she was stringing him along for no good reason.
I always enjoy house party stories because I like watching the interplay among the guests. This book handles that aspect very well and also includes lots of humorous banter between Richard and Esme. There’s a bit of ludicrousness about Richard’s family tradition of abducting brides, but that passes quickly. All in all, Reason to Wed was a quick, fun read – just the thing for a rainy Saturday afternoon. Heather Boyd is an author I will definitely read again.
Reluctantly recognizing the need to marry and beget heirs, Richard organizes a house party brimming with young, prospective brides. Among the guests are Esme and her current amour, but when that gentleman suddenly announces his engagement to one of the young lovelies, Richard is appalled to think of Esme suffering such embarrassment. His solution: offer to engage in an affair-of-convenience with Esme for the duration of the house party.
“Why not?” thinks Esme. It could be enjoyable and would help her save face before the other guests. Esme is already helping Richard by acting as his de facto hostess and as time passes, Richard realizes that he is becoming smitten with her. She would make a perfect countess, apart from the fact that Esme knows that she would not be a good wife for Richard, as he needs an heir and she is barren. Moreover, Esme has no interest in marrying again and surrendering her independence.
I liked Esme; she is strong and determined but not without softness. In most other Regency romances, a woman like Esme would be cast as the wicked Other Woman, but here she is a character deserving of our admiration. Richard is admirable as well. This series is called Distinguished Rogues, but I’m not sure that Richard is really a rogue. When he falls for Esme, he falls hard, and that’s always fun to watch. Esme refuses marriage, but I never felt that she was stringing him along for no good reason.
I always enjoy house party stories because I like watching the interplay among the guests. This book handles that aspect very well and also includes lots of humorous banter between Richard and Esme. There’s a bit of ludicrousness about Richard’s family tradition of abducting brides, but that passes quickly. All in all, Reason to Wed was a quick, fun read – just the thing for a rainy Saturday afternoon. Heather Boyd is an author I will definitely read again.
November 4, 2022
Phew! Hot'n sexy. Heather Boyd can always "turn up the heat". I absolutely loved this story. So steamy. Loved the plot and characters. Just adored Richard! 5☆
Second reading: as above - and still loved it! 5☆
Third reading: 4/11/22 - I love this story and the series too. An emotional story and beautifully written. Always 5☆
Second reading: as above - and still loved it! 5☆
Third reading: 4/11/22 - I love this story and the series too. An emotional story and beautifully written. Always 5☆
December 8, 2015
from the widow's point of view!
Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere, needs to marry and beget an heir, entailing a curious ritual that had been part of the family myth for generations. This he refuses to do. All Richard's affairs have led him to believe that he may be unable to have children--but, nary a by blow in sight.
Esme, Lady Heathcote, a not so discreet widow lady knew she was barren. She thoroughly enjoys her independence. Lovers and no involvement are part of that.
Although never involved, Richard and Esme had crossed paths more than once. Indeed Esme did him a favor not so long ago, one that initially infuriated Richard--publicly! To make amends, Richard invites Esme to a select house party, aiming to show the world they were not at logger heads.
When Esme's lover announces his engagement to another, Esme is furious. Her code of behaviour has always included the strict rule of no engaged or married men for a dalliance.
Richard offers her an affair for the duration of the house party--an offer that will ease her public humiliation. Neither of them can foresee the emotional link that will be forged. But Esme is determined that the affair will be short lived and that the man who has become more than a friend will be able to move on to a more suitable bride, one who will provide Richard with his much needed heir. I quite enjoyed Esme, her strong character, her determination and compassion. An interesting plot that involves a woman that in other novels is nearly always the 'other'; the hardened widow seeking a husband using all her wicked wiles, only to be let down when the innocent young beguiling thing walks away with the hero (often a rake!) Here we have a mature woman who enjoys her life and takes charge of her inclinations, without pretence and prevarication. Quite liberating. I have gone through years of reading, convinced that those widows who took lovers, were always grasping harpies looking for the main chance. Esme is certainly not of that mould. Refreshing!
A NetGalley ARC
Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere, needs to marry and beget an heir, entailing a curious ritual that had been part of the family myth for generations. This he refuses to do. All Richard's affairs have led him to believe that he may be unable to have children--but, nary a by blow in sight.
Esme, Lady Heathcote, a not so discreet widow lady knew she was barren. She thoroughly enjoys her independence. Lovers and no involvement are part of that.
Although never involved, Richard and Esme had crossed paths more than once. Indeed Esme did him a favor not so long ago, one that initially infuriated Richard--publicly! To make amends, Richard invites Esme to a select house party, aiming to show the world they were not at logger heads.
When Esme's lover announces his engagement to another, Esme is furious. Her code of behaviour has always included the strict rule of no engaged or married men for a dalliance.
Richard offers her an affair for the duration of the house party--an offer that will ease her public humiliation. Neither of them can foresee the emotional link that will be forged. But Esme is determined that the affair will be short lived and that the man who has become more than a friend will be able to move on to a more suitable bride, one who will provide Richard with his much needed heir. I quite enjoyed Esme, her strong character, her determination and compassion. An interesting plot that involves a woman that in other novels is nearly always the 'other'; the hardened widow seeking a husband using all her wicked wiles, only to be let down when the innocent young beguiling thing walks away with the hero (often a rake!) Here we have a mature woman who enjoys her life and takes charge of her inclinations, without pretence and prevarication. Quite liberating. I have gone through years of reading, convinced that those widows who took lovers, were always grasping harpies looking for the main chance. Esme is certainly not of that mould. Refreshing!
A NetGalley ARC
December 7, 2020
3 stars, but not really. I really liked the set-up/first half. They're old friends who have always argued a bit (although in a healthy was as far as I can tell), and have recently fought over a difference of opinion. The dude has invited her to his house-party to try and smooth that over (because he was a bit of an idiot, but in a perfectly understandable way), and make it clear (to society) that they're still friends. Her lover then announces a surprise engagement, so the hero suggests they pretend they're having an affair to help essentially salvage her pride, and stem some gossip.
Except it occurs to the hero pretty immediately that he'd like the affair to be real. It's just going to be for the house-party (so like a week or so), but it won't be permanent because he needs an heir and she's infertile.
I really liked the main couple; I liked their dynamic. I liked how they were together.
There's a pretty tedious B-plot with her best friend and Dude's terrible brother, but it wasn't that bad. By which I mean it was ignorable.
So yeah, first half/two-thirds I was totally into this (and they were totally into each other.
And then of course there needs to be a major conflict, and it's just done so very... oddly. Essentially, there's a weird family tradition where the Earl/Duke/whatever his title is that I'm too lazy to look up kidnaps their bride to be, takes the up a mountain to a random tree and they have sex. I mean, I know what type of book I'm reading, but the whole thing was just... weird. Because there was (obviously) some information-withholding involved.
Also, I think we can all guess how the infertility plot resolved itself.
Basically, I really liked the first half, and then found the second half all kinds of problematic. SO the rating's tricky.
Except it occurs to the hero pretty immediately that he'd like the affair to be real. It's just going to be for the house-party (so like a week or so), but it won't be permanent because he needs an heir and she's infertile.
I really liked the main couple; I liked their dynamic. I liked how they were together.
There's a pretty tedious B-plot with her best friend and Dude's terrible brother, but it wasn't that bad. By which I mean it was ignorable.
So yeah, first half/two-thirds I was totally into this (and they were totally into each other.
And then of course there needs to be a major conflict, and it's just done so very... oddly. Essentially, there's a weird family tradition where the Earl/Duke/whatever his title is that I'm too lazy to look up kidnaps their bride to be, takes the up a mountain to a random tree and they have sex. I mean, I know what type of book I'm reading, but the whole thing was just... weird. Because there was (obviously) some information-withholding involved.
Also, I think we can all guess how the infertility plot resolved itself.
Basically, I really liked the first half, and then found the second half all kinds of problematic. SO the rating's tricky.
July 27, 2019
Entertaining plot with an older couple (36 and 43), and a beautiful cover. I enjoyed it. 3.75 stars
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July 16, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/16/2019)! 🎁
December 16, 2015
This romance was so romantic!! Yes, I know they are supposed to be romantic but too often they do misplace the romance for action, adventure, mystery or pathos. This has none of those, it is just all romance and a good bit of some mildly kinky sex. It is so well written that I can guarantee you will fall in love with Richard, Lord Windermere. Is he too good to be true? Well….maybe a little but his only fault is being just a touch arrogant. Esme is no Spring Chick at 36, widowed, childless and presumed barren she is not about to fall in love with 43 year old Richard who needs to marry and sire an heir. Esme has been around the block a few times and knows her own mind. Richard is all about changing her mind.
I can highly recommend this well written, sizzling romance to all of you who are craving something that makes you want to turn the pages. This is the one.
Reason to Wed is the seventh story in the Distinguished Rogues series. Other titles are:
Book 1: Chills
Book 2: Broken
Book 3: Charity
Book 4: An Accidental Affair
Book 5: Keepsake
Book 6: An Improper Proposal
https://ladeetdareads.wordpress.com/2...
I received this book free for review from the publisher.
P.S.- I really, really hate that cover.
I can highly recommend this well written, sizzling romance to all of you who are craving something that makes you want to turn the pages. This is the one.
Reason to Wed is the seventh story in the Distinguished Rogues series. Other titles are:
Book 1: Chills
Book 2: Broken
Book 3: Charity
Book 4: An Accidental Affair
Book 5: Keepsake
Book 6: An Improper Proposal
https://ladeetdareads.wordpress.com/2...
I received this book free for review from the publisher.
P.S.- I really, really hate that cover.
July 26, 2019
This was an unexpected gem of a free book. I liked how well it was written plus a little twist on the usual Regency romance. Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
September 5, 2023
A saucy, historical romance.
August 7, 2019
Predictable!
This was a very predictable story, but still an enjoyable read. The story opens at country house party given by the H. The h gives limited background, without much reason for it, about the animosity/antagonism that existed between them prior to this event. The author does a good job of turning them into friends and more and without details about the previous animosity it is very believable. The resolution at the end was a bit of a let down ... It was an HEA, but it seemed to lack something, especially from the h....guess I was expected a little more emotion. However, the epilogue definitely makes up for it. This story ends at about 90%, followed by an excerpt from the next novel in the series and links to the previous ones. (The first in the series is offered free.)
This was a very predictable story, but still an enjoyable read. The story opens at country house party given by the H. The h gives limited background, without much reason for it, about the animosity/antagonism that existed between them prior to this event. The author does a good job of turning them into friends and more and without details about the previous animosity it is very believable. The resolution at the end was a bit of a let down ... It was an HEA, but it seemed to lack something, especially from the h....guess I was expected a little more emotion. However, the epilogue definitely makes up for it. This story ends at about 90%, followed by an excerpt from the next novel in the series and links to the previous ones. (The first in the series is offered free.)
November 5, 2019
I liked this book. I liked the characters and how they interacted. Funny and sexy. I would read more.
December 6, 2015
As some of you may know I completely adore Heather Boyd's books. I've loved every one of her books that I have read and tend to devour them in hours. This lady has a talent writing historical regency era romances that is just unbelievably awesome. Reason to Wed may have just jumped to first place in my favorite Heather Boyd book list.
I have to admit I could not wait to get my hands on this book. I have been looking forward to hearing more about Esme since An Improper Proposal. Esme is not the typical heroine. She's a touch older than the usual heroine, she's a widow, and she likes to explore her sexual appetite. She is an independent strong willed lady with charisma and charm that is all her own. Her relationship with Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere is bump at the best. These two have a way of setting each other off and at first it's not in the good way. The sparks of frustration accidentally turn in to sparks of passion.
Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere is handsome, charming, and if you ask Esme a little on the conceited side. His goal for the season is to find a wife that can quickly produce an heir. However when sparks fly with Esme he puts finding a proper wife to bare his children on hold. He and Esme have a smoldering, steaming, hot relationship that is totally unexpected to both of them.
I really enjoyed reading about Esme and Richard. Their story is full of chemistry, hot and steamy scenes. plenty of emotion (grab some Kleenex, you may find a few tears streaming down your cheeks), drama, and circumstances that try to stand in their way of happily ever after together.
Overall this is one fabulous story that is well written with incredibly interesting characters that kept me spellbound from page one all the way through to the last page. This is part of The Distinguished Rogues Series but will stand alone just fine. If you have read An improper Proposal you will enjoy catching up with Esme and Richard again. You will not be missing anything pertinent if you haven't read the previous books. They are really good reads though so you may want to grab them up now too!
Reason to Wed is the perfect book to warm up a cold winter evening. Grab your copy, find a comfy place to read, and get ready to devour a wonderful historical romance in the style that only Heather Boyd can provide.
Normally you really should not judge a book by it's cover but this cover is on the spot. The couple have that smoldering hot look that perfectly fit Esme and Richard. When the cover is just as awesome as the story inside I figure it's OK to judge the book by the cover then.
I was given the opportunity to read this great story so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Reason to Wed.
I have to admit I could not wait to get my hands on this book. I have been looking forward to hearing more about Esme since An Improper Proposal. Esme is not the typical heroine. She's a touch older than the usual heroine, she's a widow, and she likes to explore her sexual appetite. She is an independent strong willed lady with charisma and charm that is all her own. Her relationship with Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere is bump at the best. These two have a way of setting each other off and at first it's not in the good way. The sparks of frustration accidentally turn in to sparks of passion.
Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere is handsome, charming, and if you ask Esme a little on the conceited side. His goal for the season is to find a wife that can quickly produce an heir. However when sparks fly with Esme he puts finding a proper wife to bare his children on hold. He and Esme have a smoldering, steaming, hot relationship that is totally unexpected to both of them.
I really enjoyed reading about Esme and Richard. Their story is full of chemistry, hot and steamy scenes. plenty of emotion (grab some Kleenex, you may find a few tears streaming down your cheeks), drama, and circumstances that try to stand in their way of happily ever after together.
Overall this is one fabulous story that is well written with incredibly interesting characters that kept me spellbound from page one all the way through to the last page. This is part of The Distinguished Rogues Series but will stand alone just fine. If you have read An improper Proposal you will enjoy catching up with Esme and Richard again. You will not be missing anything pertinent if you haven't read the previous books. They are really good reads though so you may want to grab them up now too!
Reason to Wed is the perfect book to warm up a cold winter evening. Grab your copy, find a comfy place to read, and get ready to devour a wonderful historical romance in the style that only Heather Boyd can provide.
Normally you really should not judge a book by it's cover but this cover is on the spot. The couple have that smoldering hot look that perfectly fit Esme and Richard. When the cover is just as awesome as the story inside I figure it's OK to judge the book by the cover then.
I was given the opportunity to read this great story so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Reason to Wed.
December 11, 2015
This steamy historical read is refreshingly unusual in its use of older characters. Esme is thirty six (I think, though she does admit to lying about her age at one point) and has been widowed for a long time, during which she has taken many lovers, and though she is discreet she’s not the least bit prudish. Richard is in his early forties and, likewise, has taken many lovers. There’s nothing restrained or hidden between these two, though they do have an antagonistic past.
This is my first foray into this series (and indeed this author’s work), but although there are plenty of other characters hanging around who have clearly been seen before in these books, I didn’t feel lost. Esme and Richard’s history is neatly recapped, although for two people who aren’t supposed to like each other Esme did seem rather familiar with his house and staff.
But that doesn’t really matter. This book is about sex and the deepening relationship between these two. After a bit of conversational fencing, things get hot and steamy fairly quickly and everything develops from there. If I’m honest Richard’s escalation of feelings seems to have come out of nowhere, and that family ritual isdisturbing interesting. I did like how obviously reluctant Richard was to go through with it, and how he’d made sure Esme wouldn’t mind the whole thing before it all began.
Okay, so of course I could see which way everything was going and at the end Esme needed to sort herself out and treat Richard like an adult capable of making his own choices, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed this. If you’re looking for a historical romance that is all about steamy romance and doesn’t waste words on anything else, that is precisely what you’ll get here. It’s open and honest in its intentions (even if the two characters can’t quite say the same) and is pure entertainment. I look forward to exploring what else this series has to offer.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
This is my first foray into this series (and indeed this author’s work), but although there are plenty of other characters hanging around who have clearly been seen before in these books, I didn’t feel lost. Esme and Richard’s history is neatly recapped, although for two people who aren’t supposed to like each other Esme did seem rather familiar with his house and staff.
But that doesn’t really matter. This book is about sex and the deepening relationship between these two. After a bit of conversational fencing, things get hot and steamy fairly quickly and everything develops from there. If I’m honest Richard’s escalation of feelings seems to have come out of nowhere, and that family ritual is
Okay, so of course I could see which way everything was going and at the end Esme needed to sort herself out and treat Richard like an adult capable of making his own choices, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed this. If you’re looking for a historical romance that is all about steamy romance and doesn’t waste words on anything else, that is precisely what you’ll get here. It’s open and honest in its intentions (even if the two characters can’t quite say the same) and is pure entertainment. I look forward to exploring what else this series has to offer.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
December 14, 2015
The seventh book in the Distinguished Rogues series, Reason to Wed was quite a surprising read. For one, the two main protagonist are in the older age group unusual for a historical regency romance and for one they've known each other for awhile but never been attracted to each other or os it seems. Richard is in his forties while Esme is in her thirties. These two have been running in the same social circle for ages and yet has never been lovers at all. Esme has enjoyed her widowhood with her able to control whom she would have a dalliance with and when it would end. She has no interest in marriage and she feels this is better left to the young ladies of the ton. Richard needs an heir and its not for the lack of trying. He feels that if he would be saddled into marriage then it should be at least with someone he respects. But the pressure is on, he isn't getting any younger and his brother doesn't seem to have any interest to procreate as well while his cousin seems to be cataloguing his furniture as if its a done deal he'll be inheriting the earldom. When something unexpected happens at Richard's houseparty, causing Esme some dismay, these two gravitate in to an odd friendship that soon turns into something more. But Esme is convinced that this is just a short lived affair that needs to end while Richard feels that he's finally found the woman he wants to marry. Can two opposing individuals find their happily ever after?
I think this would be a favorite among the Distinguished Rogues novels, it hits the rights notes on everything. A very sexy, humorous and absolutely adorable friends to lovers story that just makes you smile and laugh along with the characters. Esme and Richard being mature adults are just perfect, it goes to show that love knows no boundaries or age and yes an acceptance of even the most bizarre family ritual just to get your bride. Fantastic!
*ARC provided thru NetGalley by the publisher*
I think this would be a favorite among the Distinguished Rogues novels, it hits the rights notes on everything. A very sexy, humorous and absolutely adorable friends to lovers story that just makes you smile and laugh along with the characters. Esme and Richard being mature adults are just perfect, it goes to show that love knows no boundaries or age and yes an acceptance of even the most bizarre family ritual just to get your bride. Fantastic!
*ARC provided thru NetGalley by the publisher*
August 25, 2019
I liked about 2/3rds of it, especially the main character Esme and her friends. The huge downsides which ruined the book for me were the infertility resolution (where both of the couple supposedly experienced it), with the couple winding up with not one but 4 children by the end. Magically cured infertility isn't a cute HEA storyline, it's just offensive and insensitive to those who deal with it in real life (and not every freaking couple has to have the marriage/children epilogue to get that HEA, newsflash writers--it's possible to be very very happy without those things, whatever the time period). And the whole "fake" abduction/ravishment scene was absolutely horrifying, especially the way she's tied up with something stuffed inside her at the end to try and ensure she gets pregnant. And doubly so because the jerk, who supposedly loves her deeply and wants to marry her and hates what he's doing, never tells her what's happening or why he's doing it before or after he does it (she has to hear the whole explanation from someone else). And he'd never once hinted he wanted to marry her before that, so that they could talk it through like actual adults before he springs it on her by abducting her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2015
I really liked that Richard and Esme are older. You read so many books where the characters are 20 something that is nice to read about characters who know a little of life. The maturity of Richard and Esme made this book delightful. There are two scenarios in the book - sacrificing what the H/h feels is best for the other and friends to lovers. I love the tension between Esme and Richard. They agree to a short term affair but as with most friends to lovers their caring for each other grew stronger. I really enjoyed the progression. It broke my heart that Esme would not allow herself happiness because of her inability to have children. Richard needs a son but as Esme and Richard spend time together he realizes he does not want to live without her whether she can have a child or not. Esme leaves because she believes it is best for Richard but fortunately Richard goes after her. The reunion scene is perfect. Richard is my new favorite distinguished rogue.
On another note, Richard's brother is a total prick but I think he has potential and would love to see a redemption story about him and Harriet.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
On another note, Richard's brother is a total prick but I think he has potential and would love to see a redemption story about him and Harriet.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
December 9, 2015
This is book 7 in the Distinguished Rogues series.
At a house party to spend some time with her lover, Esme soon learns that he is now engaged. Never one to interfere with a marriage, she find solace in the arms of Richard, the Earl of Windermere.
Always at odds with Esme in the past, Richard is surprised to find himself so attracted to her. He soon learns that it is reciprocated.
Could a fling at a house party turn into something so much more?
I loved this story!! I'm always partial to H/H that banter back and forth and there is plenty of that with Boyd's latest story. The sizzle between the two of them didn't hurt either!!
This was a pretty quick read that had me wanting more. Boyd has created several secondary characters that I hope she develops stories for soon!
I can't wait to see what she gives us next!
Thanks go out to LLD Press via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
At a house party to spend some time with her lover, Esme soon learns that he is now engaged. Never one to interfere with a marriage, she find solace in the arms of Richard, the Earl of Windermere.
Always at odds with Esme in the past, Richard is surprised to find himself so attracted to her. He soon learns that it is reciprocated.
Could a fling at a house party turn into something so much more?
I loved this story!! I'm always partial to H/H that banter back and forth and there is plenty of that with Boyd's latest story. The sizzle between the two of them didn't hurt either!!
This was a pretty quick read that had me wanting more. Boyd has created several secondary characters that I hope she develops stories for soon!
I can't wait to see what she gives us next!
Thanks go out to LLD Press via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
December 27, 2015
Kindly provided with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review........
Fantastic Historical Romance !!
This is Richard and Esme's story. Considering it was book 7 in the series, their back story was wonderfully written to fully inform the reader the as I term....the when, the what, the who and the why's !!!
Esme you are definitely a LADY WHO TAKES CHARGE ! Richard I was really glad you put the "I need a child" on the back burner to explore this passion with Esme.........and explore you both did VERY STEAMY !!!
This is an extremely gripping strong, story line and I absolutely loved every minute of it !!!. For lovers of Historical reads with a REAL emotional and at the same time VERY steamy story line......then this is your book !!
Well done Heather and Many thanks Netaglley for this opportunity xx
Later peeps xxx
Fantastic Historical Romance !!
This is Richard and Esme's story. Considering it was book 7 in the series, their back story was wonderfully written to fully inform the reader the as I term....the when, the what, the who and the why's !!!
Esme you are definitely a LADY WHO TAKES CHARGE ! Richard I was really glad you put the "I need a child" on the back burner to explore this passion with Esme.........and explore you both did VERY STEAMY !!!
This is an extremely gripping strong, story line and I absolutely loved every minute of it !!!. For lovers of Historical reads with a REAL emotional and at the same time VERY steamy story line......then this is your book !!
Well done Heather and Many thanks Netaglley for this opportunity xx
Later peeps xxx
December 4, 2015
Heather Boyd's book seven in her Distinguished Rogues series, Reason to Wed, could just as easily be called a Reason to Read! Long time frienemies confront an unexpected growing attraction in this charming romance. Worldly characters, long resigned to the roles they have assigned themselves in life, are forced by fate to take another look at their lives directions. Ms. Boyd skillfully takes her readers on the hero and heroine's whirlwind journey as they step by step succumb to love, but not without a fight and lots of steamy assignations. A quick escape, this novel is the perfect way to indulge in a happy ending!
*I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*
*I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*
December 6, 2015
The Distinguished Rogues series came to my attention through Chills (Book #1) when it was a perma free at the beginning of the year. I thought it was adorable how this slip of a woman brought this forceful cold hearted man to his knees. From that first book I was hooked on Heather Boyd as an author. I requested a copy of Reason to Wed from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Reason to Wed is a story of two people that have faced their share of heartbreak but deeply desire the chance to be happy. I believe that is why I enjoy reading Ms. Boyd. She gets right to the heart of any story and captivates her readers with every tale.
February 13, 2016
This is book 7 in "The Distinguished Rogues" series. This is a great, sweet short read.. around 160 pages. I like that this book is somewhat different in that the heroine Esme, is a widow and somewhat older than most heroines...she is her 30's. Our hero, Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere is in his 40's and is looking to find a wife to produce a heir. Richard is thrown off after rescuing Esme.. this is a really great book that I hope you will enjoy reading too!
December 9, 2015
Richard the Earl of Windermere knows his duty to find a wife and create and heir but when he has the opportunity for an affair with Esme, duty flies out the winder. This is a fast paced entertaining story with plenty of steam and chemistry between Richard and Esme. The story is a roller coaster ride of emotions that I couldn’t put down. Great Read!
December 12, 2015
Really enjoyed this story.
I like a more 'mature' hero/heroine.
I like a more 'mature' hero/heroine.
August 4, 2019
So, I read 1-3 in a bundle and enjoyed it, but wasn't convinced (I didn't much like H 3).
I already had #7 for free, so decided to knock it off, and enjoyed it enough to actually spend money (I'm a huge cheapskate) on the 4-6 bundle. Again, I enjoyed them, but there was another H I didn't really like.
I was all set to buy the next bundle... but it's not been released. The series is up to book 10 or 11 I think, but not sure if it's going to bundle up or not... and I am a huge cheapskate and the 'world' is just not 'tight' enough for me to buy the individual books at a higher (but still decent) price.
The writing doesn't really leave loose ends, but doesn't really square all the details away either. So the mother who racked up $30k in debt costing her daughter her entire fortune leaving them both potentially on the streets, is just a no worries, we'll give her grandkids so she won't spend so much. The bad guys aren't always completely sorted. The social mores are not only loose, but not always the same... Unescorted young ladies are a big no no, but they all seem to do it with no thought or consequences, mistresses are bad but then they talk about marrying mistresses if they get pregnant, illegitimate children are not great but are sometimes a horror (situation not kid) and sometimes part of the scenery. Scandals are a horror but then brushed over. Widows are free to have lovers but her having a lover is a horror. It's all just a bit loose.
(Same review for 4-7)
0819
I already had #7 for free, so decided to knock it off, and enjoyed it enough to actually spend money (I'm a huge cheapskate) on the 4-6 bundle. Again, I enjoyed them, but there was another H I didn't really like.
I was all set to buy the next bundle... but it's not been released. The series is up to book 10 or 11 I think, but not sure if it's going to bundle up or not... and I am a huge cheapskate and the 'world' is just not 'tight' enough for me to buy the individual books at a higher (but still decent) price.
The writing doesn't really leave loose ends, but doesn't really square all the details away either. So the mother who racked up $30k in debt costing her daughter her entire fortune leaving them both potentially on the streets, is just a no worries, we'll give her grandkids so she won't spend so much. The bad guys aren't always completely sorted. The social mores are not only loose, but not always the same... Unescorted young ladies are a big no no, but they all seem to do it with no thought or consequences, mistresses are bad but then they talk about marrying mistresses if they get pregnant, illegitimate children are not great but are sometimes a horror (situation not kid) and sometimes part of the scenery. Scandals are a horror but then brushed over. Widows are free to have lovers but her having a lover is a horror. It's all just a bit loose.
(Same review for 4-7)
0819
April 14, 2022
DNF, I got about half through this one before stopping, it just wasn't working for me, which is a shame because it had potential. A few things bothered me, one: the discussions of sex seemed too free for the time period, yes widowed women could take lovers, but they still had to practice some discretion. However, I could have of forgiven that if the love story had been good, but it wasn't really. There were some hot sex scenes, which always adds some fun to a story, but it didn't really feel like the couple was falling in love. They had a string of sexual encounters, but there was very little interaction and development of their relationship beyond that. At around the half way point the hero says to the heroine something like "you know this is more than sex", based on what? They had hot sex 3-4 times, but there didn't seem to be any deeper connection. It was around this point that I stopped, I'm all for sex in a story, but I really want the love and romance in a story too. It is too bad, because I was looking forward to reading a historical romance where a more experienced woman finds unexpected love (I am tired of reading about virgin widows), but this just didn't deliver.
July 28, 2019
Let me be clear: the only reason I categorized this as "kink-erotica" is the physical description of the act of love is much more explicit than normally found in novels set in this era (Regency England). Were this set in the 20th/21st century, no one would raise an eyebrow over the titillation.
Saying that, because I'm not sure if widows in Regency England did act in the way described in "Reason to Wed, but if they did - more power to them! I loved that they were fierce (well, at least Esme was so) women who knew what they wanted and acted on their wants. It defies how women are typically portrayed in the Napoleonic age, but I don't care. I really, really liked the widows!
As for the story itself, it's deftly written, so much so, I'm willing to overlook the trope of the Reading this novel was a pleasant way to spend a few hours. Bravo Heather Boyd!
Saying that, because I'm not sure if widows in Regency England did act in the way described in "Reason to Wed, but if they did - more power to them! I loved that they were fierce (well, at least Esme was so) women who knew what they wanted and acted on their wants. It defies how women are typically portrayed in the Napoleonic age, but I don't care. I really, really liked the widows!
As for the story itself, it's deftly written, so much so, I'm willing to overlook the trope of the Reading this novel was a pleasant way to spend a few hours. Bravo Heather Boyd!
July 16, 2023
I just felt this story had a lot of sex and very little substance. There was no real tension between the characters because they jumped each other within the first few chapters. Basically she's the perfect wife because she's good in bed and can manage his staff. He's the perfect husband because he's good in bed and is handsome and sometimes he's a caring person. Lust they have in spades. The making of a potential real relationship, sure, but in the space of this book we don't really see it. And the tree ritual was ok until the very end of it - then it got really weird and it was also weird that he didn't tell her what it meant until well after it was over. Also, I HATE when someone waits months. He supposedly loves her but waits 5 months to see her? If you want to read a lot of steamy sex, this is a good book for that (and I don't mind sex scenes but there has to be more of a plot and more of a sense of the characters falling in love). I almost gave it 2 stars but it wasn't all bad so I gave it 3.
March 25, 2025
The high rating is great indication of where society is headed. The female lead is for a lack of better word - a Player. Or the female version of Playboys. I might add she doesn't do that with married men.. so we as despicable men must respect her.
From the outside it is made out to be story of two hedonists finding love. It is extremely one sided. Both slept with people.. but he had clear attraction towards her from the start.
There is this message " try every toy(men )before finding better".
Dear viewers , that's the moral our great heroine provides her widowed friend. HELL FUCK CULTURE. The way their sex is written as if she would dump him if she finds a bigger cock anytime.. constant men bashing.. puke.. who didn't fuck who here. The mmc and his brother share the same women but guess what they don't share at the same time.. #salute
Sex is treated as toy through out the show. If you are feminist men, you have to let every eligible women your cock, so that they can bestow judgment upon you..
Fighting discrimination is not doing the same discrimination to others.
From the outside it is made out to be story of two hedonists finding love. It is extremely one sided. Both slept with people.. but he had clear attraction towards her from the start.
There is this message " try every toy(men )before finding better".
Dear viewers , that's the moral our great heroine provides her widowed friend. HELL FUCK CULTURE. The way their sex is written as if she would dump him if she finds a bigger cock anytime.. constant men bashing.. puke.. who didn't fuck who here. The mmc and his brother share the same women but guess what they don't share at the same time.. #salute
Sex is treated as toy through out the show. If you are feminist men, you have to let every eligible women your cock, so that they can bestow judgment upon you..
Fighting discrimination is not doing the same discrimination to others.
October 1, 2019
Esme Has a Reason To Wed Richard
Esme is a childless widow living in London and having affairs, but she has rules: no married or engaged men. She is invited to a house party at the estate of Lord Richard Hill, along with her current lover and other friends. Esme and Richard have been known to have public arguments, but she has never been his lover. During the house party she was having a difficult time finding her lover, when the man had the nerve to announce his betrothed to a debutant. Esme was furious and found comfort in the river house with Richard. There is plenty more story in the book. It's a very good story.. I happen to think Heather Boyd is an excellent writer and make an effort to read as many of her books as I highly recommend this story to readers of romantic fiction.
Esme is a childless widow living in London and having affairs, but she has rules: no married or engaged men. She is invited to a house party at the estate of Lord Richard Hill, along with her current lover and other friends. Esme and Richard have been known to have public arguments, but she has never been his lover. During the house party she was having a difficult time finding her lover, when the man had the nerve to announce his betrothed to a debutant. Esme was furious and found comfort in the river house with Richard. There is plenty more story in the book. It's a very good story.. I happen to think Heather Boyd is an excellent writer and make an effort to read as many of her books as I highly recommend this story to readers of romantic fiction.
December 16, 2020
1.5 stars.
Being wanted this desperately was exactly what Esme needed. Lust was always a balm for a wounded pride and she had been feeling sorely disappointed lately.
The writing consists of short, choppy sentences with way too many of them italicized. The h acts like a whore and the H is a bore. The marriage ritual of the H’s family is almost as horrifying as it is silly. And I found the treatment of infertility “magically” cured to be disrespectful. How did I even finish this one? At least I got it for free.
“The family traditions are perverse,” he insisted, scowling at the idea. He drew close to his brother. “I will not abduct a woman, chain her to a tree stump, and fuck her while she hangs there helpless. That is not my idea of how to begin a loving marriage.”
Being wanted this desperately was exactly what Esme needed. Lust was always a balm for a wounded pride and she had been feeling sorely disappointed lately.
The writing consists of short, choppy sentences with way too many of them italicized. The h acts like a whore and the H is a bore. The marriage ritual of the H’s family is almost as horrifying as it is silly. And I found the treatment of infertility “magically” cured to be disrespectful. How did I even finish this one? At least I got it for free.
“The family traditions are perverse,” he insisted, scowling at the idea. He drew close to his brother. “I will not abduct a woman, chain her to a tree stump, and fuck her while she hangs there helpless. That is not my idea of how to begin a loving marriage.”
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