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Sisters of Scandal #1
A Most Unsuitable Match
Shunned by the
ton
How would she find a husband?
Part of Sisters of Scandal: After her mother’s latest outrageous affair, innocent Prudence Lattimar has fled to Bath.
With her dubious background, she must marry a man of impeccable reputation. A clergyman with a title and a considerable income would be perfect.
She must steer clear of Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell—his family is as notorious as hers, no matter how funny, charming and unfailingly honorable he is!
Sisters of Scandal duet
Book 1 — A Most Unsuitable Match
Look out for the second story, coming soon!
How would she find a husband?
Part of Sisters of Scandal: After her mother’s latest outrageous affair, innocent Prudence Lattimar has fled to Bath.
With her dubious background, she must marry a man of impeccable reputation. A clergyman with a title and a considerable income would be perfect.
She must steer clear of Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell—his family is as notorious as hers, no matter how funny, charming and unfailingly honorable he is!
Sisters of Scandal duet
Book 1 — A Most Unsuitable Match
Look out for the second story, coming soon!
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 1, 2018
25 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Julia Justiss
216 books317 followersJulia Justiss grew up breathing the scent of sea air near the colonial town of Annapolis, Maryland, a fact responsible for two of her life-long passions: sailors and history! By age twelve she was a junior tour guide for Historic Annapolis, conducting visitors on walking tours through the city that was a hotbed of revolutionary fervor. (Annapolis hosted its own tea party, dispensing with the cargo aboard the "Peggy Stewart," and was briefly capital of the United States.) She also took tourists through Annapolis's other big attraction, the United States Naval Academy. After so many years of observing future naval officers at P-rade and chapel, it seemed almost inevitable that she eventually married one.
But long before embarking on romantic adventures of her own, she read about them, transporting herself to such favorite venues as ancient Egypt, World War II submarine patrols, the Old South and, of course, Regency England. Soon she was keeping notebooks for jotting down story ideas. From plotting adventures for her first favorite heroine Nancy Drew she went on to write poetry in high school and college, then worked as a business journalist doing speeches, sales promotion material and newsletter articles. After her marriage to a naval lieutenant took her overseas, she wrote the newsletter for the American Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia and traveled extensively throughout Europe. Before leaving Tunis, she fulfilled her first goal: completing a Regency novel.
Children intervened, and not until her husband left the Navy to return to his Texas homeland did she sit down to pen a second novel. The reply to her fan mail letter to a Regency author led her to Romance Writers of America. From the very first meeting, she knew she'd found a home among fellow writers--doubtless the largest group of people outside a mental institution who talk back to the voices in their heads.
Her second goal was achieved the day before her birthday in May, 1998 when Margaret Marbury of Harlequin Historicals offered to buy that second book, the Golden-Heart-Award winning novel that became THE WEDDING GAMBLE. Since then, she has gone on to write fourteen novels, three novellas and an on-line serial, along the way winning or finalling for historical awards from The Golden Quill, the National Reader’s Choice, Romantic Times, and All About Romance’s Favorite Book of the Year.
Julia now inhabits an English Georgian-style house she and her husband built in the East Texas countryside where, if she closes her eyes and ignores the summer thermometer, she can almost imagine she inhabits the landscape of "Pride and Prejudice." In between travelling to visit her three children (a naval officer son stationed in Washington, DC, a textiles and design major daughter who cheers for University of Texas at Austin, and a mechanical engineering major son also at UT Austin) keeping up with her science teacher husband and juggling a part-time day job as a high school French teacher, she pursues her first and dearest love--crafting stories.
To relax, she enjoys watching movies, reading (historical fiction, mystery, suspense) and puttering about in the garden trying to kill off more weeds than flowers.
But long before embarking on romantic adventures of her own, she read about them, transporting herself to such favorite venues as ancient Egypt, World War II submarine patrols, the Old South and, of course, Regency England. Soon she was keeping notebooks for jotting down story ideas. From plotting adventures for her first favorite heroine Nancy Drew she went on to write poetry in high school and college, then worked as a business journalist doing speeches, sales promotion material and newsletter articles. After her marriage to a naval lieutenant took her overseas, she wrote the newsletter for the American Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia and traveled extensively throughout Europe. Before leaving Tunis, she fulfilled her first goal: completing a Regency novel.
Children intervened, and not until her husband left the Navy to return to his Texas homeland did she sit down to pen a second novel. The reply to her fan mail letter to a Regency author led her to Romance Writers of America. From the very first meeting, she knew she'd found a home among fellow writers--doubtless the largest group of people outside a mental institution who talk back to the voices in their heads.
Her second goal was achieved the day before her birthday in May, 1998 when Margaret Marbury of Harlequin Historicals offered to buy that second book, the Golden-Heart-Award winning novel that became THE WEDDING GAMBLE. Since then, she has gone on to write fourteen novels, three novellas and an on-line serial, along the way winning or finalling for historical awards from The Golden Quill, the National Reader’s Choice, Romantic Times, and All About Romance’s Favorite Book of the Year.
Julia now inhabits an English Georgian-style house she and her husband built in the East Texas countryside where, if she closes her eyes and ignores the summer thermometer, she can almost imagine she inhabits the landscape of "Pride and Prejudice." In between travelling to visit her three children (a naval officer son stationed in Washington, DC, a textiles and design major daughter who cheers for University of Texas at Austin, and a mechanical engineering major son also at UT Austin) keeping up with her science teacher husband and juggling a part-time day job as a high school French teacher, she pursues her first and dearest love--crafting stories.
To relax, she enjoys watching movies, reading (historical fiction, mystery, suspense) and puttering about in the garden trying to kill off more weeds than flowers.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 1, 2018
A Most Unsuitable Match by Julia Justiss is a 2018 Mill & Boon / Harlequin Historical Romance publication.
Poor Prudence. She and her twin sister have never had a ‘season’ for one reason or another. But, it looks like this might finally be their year to enter society-
Until-
The girls’ mother creates yet another scandal, thwarting their plans once again.
Fleeing to Bath, Prudence hopes to meet a man who will give her the social status and respect she needs. All she wants is to live a quiet life away from scandal and have a family of her own. However, the man she finds attractive, kind and honorable, also boasts a less than stellar reputation, which simply will not do. So, Prudence accepts the attentions of a clergyman, although his motives are a bit suspicious.
Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell has returned home after many adventures to recover from a combat injury. He needs money, but his only hope is to marry a woman with a generous dowry. When he meets the lovely Prudence, he is quite smitten, and she would certainly provide him with the coin he needs. However, However, his own tainted reputation and desire to continue living an adventurous life, makes them incompatible. But, that doesn’t stop him from assisting Prudence’s entry into society, or guarding her virtue, or protecting her from mistreatment and vicious gossip. However, the more he learns about her seemingly legitimate prospects, the more he worries about Prudence’s future happiness.
This sweet story has a nice ‘opposites attract’ theme, as Prudence wishes for a quiet life and Johnnie is hoping to live a life full of adventure.
It is so often the case that those who appear scandalous are in fact the most honorable and true, while those who appear respectable could be hiding far worse sins. Although most of us are not under the extreme pressure to adhere to society’s pressures, in contemporary times, the weight of which felt heavy and palpable for Prudence, we still judge people unfairly, assume guilt by association, and hold women to a different standard than men.
I enjoyed the way the romance developed. While Pru and Johnnie are attracted to each other right from the start, they first forge a solid, respectful friendship, getting to know each other, and falling deeply in love in the process. I loved how each of them got what they wanted- making concessions in order to build a wonderful life together.
This is a sweeter romance without a lot of steamy sexual content, but the depth truly shines, as do the gentle messages within the pages.
Overall, this is another fantastic effort by Julia Justiss. 4 stars
Poor Prudence. She and her twin sister have never had a ‘season’ for one reason or another. But, it looks like this might finally be their year to enter society-
Until-
The girls’ mother creates yet another scandal, thwarting their plans once again.
Fleeing to Bath, Prudence hopes to meet a man who will give her the social status and respect she needs. All she wants is to live a quiet life away from scandal and have a family of her own. However, the man she finds attractive, kind and honorable, also boasts a less than stellar reputation, which simply will not do. So, Prudence accepts the attentions of a clergyman, although his motives are a bit suspicious.
Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell has returned home after many adventures to recover from a combat injury. He needs money, but his only hope is to marry a woman with a generous dowry. When he meets the lovely Prudence, he is quite smitten, and she would certainly provide him with the coin he needs. However, However, his own tainted reputation and desire to continue living an adventurous life, makes them incompatible. But, that doesn’t stop him from assisting Prudence’s entry into society, or guarding her virtue, or protecting her from mistreatment and vicious gossip. However, the more he learns about her seemingly legitimate prospects, the more he worries about Prudence’s future happiness.
This sweet story has a nice ‘opposites attract’ theme, as Prudence wishes for a quiet life and Johnnie is hoping to live a life full of adventure.
It is so often the case that those who appear scandalous are in fact the most honorable and true, while those who appear respectable could be hiding far worse sins. Although most of us are not under the extreme pressure to adhere to society’s pressures, in contemporary times, the weight of which felt heavy and palpable for Prudence, we still judge people unfairly, assume guilt by association, and hold women to a different standard than men.
I enjoyed the way the romance developed. While Pru and Johnnie are attracted to each other right from the start, they first forge a solid, respectful friendship, getting to know each other, and falling deeply in love in the process. I loved how each of them got what they wanted- making concessions in order to build a wonderful life together.
This is a sweeter romance without a lot of steamy sexual content, but the depth truly shines, as do the gentle messages within the pages.
Overall, this is another fantastic effort by Julia Justiss. 4 stars
November 18, 2018
I've given this a B+ at AAR, so that's 4.5 stars.
Julia Justiss opens her new Sisters of Scandal series with A Most Unsuitable Match, in which a young lady tainted by a scandal not of her own making strives to obey every strict rule of society and to make herself into a pattern-card of propriety in an attempt to free herself from the unkind gossip that dogs her. Prudence Lattimar and her twin sister Temperance (sisters of Christopher Lattimar, hero of the author’s last Hadley’s Hellions book, Secret Lessons with the Rake ) are now in their early twenties but have yet to have a London Season. There are various reasons for this – illness, mourning, a birth – but the most recent one is the worst of all; Pru and Temper’s reputations are already on very shaky ground thanks to their mother’s reputation for loose morals, and the fact that a pair of young bucks have just fought a duel over her promises to be the death knell of yet another Season. Lady Vraux is renowned for having had a string of lovers over the years and it’s common knowledge that all of her children have different fathers, only of them her husband – and gossip paints her daughters as chips off the old block. Prudence wants nothing more from life than a husband she can at least esteem, a home and family, and to live far from the bustle of London society and its attendant gossip – but her mother’s notoriety condemns her before she so much as shows her face in society, and she despairs of ever being able have the sort of life she wants.
Unlike Temperance, who would much rather go adventuring abroad hunting antiquities than stay in England hunting a husband, Prudence decides to try her luck in Bath. With the London Season starting, society in Bath will be a little thinner on the ground, but there will still be plenty to do and, no doubt, some eligible gentlemen who might prove to be to her liking.
Lieutenant Lord John Treadwell, youngest son of Marquess of Barkley, has recently returned from service in India and is visiting his aunt in Bath while he recuperates from a leg wound. After seven years in the army, he’s planning on resigning his commission and going into business; as the fourth son of a spendthrift father, he has to support himself by his own efforts, in spite of society’s horror at the idea of a gentleman working for his living. His aunt would be happier if he’d take the time-honoured approach of marrying an heiress, but Johnnie won’t hear of that.
“I happen to believe setting up a trading operation is a better route to wealth than sacrificing myself on the altar of some India nabob hoping to marry his daughter into the aristocracy.”
At his first sight of Prudence Lattimar, Johnnie is thoroughly smitten and engineers an introduction even though his aunt insists she’s precisely the sort of female he needs to avoid. Word is already circulating that he’s a fortune hunter, and given he’s the scion of a family of rakehells and widely known to be something of a rogue, the last thing he needs is for his name to be coupled with a woman of Prudence’s reputation. Yet right from the first, Johnnie gives no credence to the gossip, preferring instead to believe the evidence of his own eyes and ears – which have heard nothing to Pru’s detriment other than the scandal that is so gleefully circulated about her mother.
Pru is similarly attracted to the dashing young officer, but knows all too well that an association with him is something she can’t afford. With her own reputation in such a precarious state, she has to appear above reproach at all times, and spending time with a known rake will only serve to reinforce the completely unfounded rumours that continue to circulate about her. She recognises the longing he stirs within her as desire, but forces herself to set it aside, instead concentrating on a far more promising matrimonial prospect, Lord Fitzroy-Price, the handsome youngest son of a duke who is waiting to be appointed an ecclesiastical living. Being the wife of a clergyman would go a long way towards rehabilitating Pru in the eyes of society, so she determines to forget Johnnie and concentrate on realising her ambition to find a respectable husband. But she quickly realises that hers is not the only reputation being misrepresented; Fitzroy-Price may seem charming, but he’s self-absorbed and his motives are mercenary, and while Johnnie might be a rogue, his heart is true and he never pretends to be something he’s not.
A Most Unsuitable Match is a warm, tender romance between two people dogged by scandal for most of their lives, who connect with and understand each other on an instinctual level because of those shared experiences. Pru struggles every day to suppress her intelligence, vivacity and wit and has to endure completely undeserved censure, and Ms. Justiss makes some incredibly relevant observations about the ridiculous double standards that continue to exist for women almost two hundred years after the time in which this story is set. The way Johnnie supports and champions Pru is wonderful to see, and I loved that she felt comfortable and able to be herself around him, finding the sort of freedom in his company she rarely experienced with anyone else.
The secondary characters add richness and colour to the story, especially the two aunts, who care deeply for Pru and Johnnie and only want what’s best for them; while Johnnie’s tales of his time in India are fascinating, showing clearly how much he respects and loves the country, its inhabitants and culture. The predictability of an event that happens near the end kept the novel from DIK status by a whisper, but overall, A Most Unsuitable Match is a marvellous read. The leads are lively and charming, coming across as real people rather than two dimensional cyphers, the longing between them is palpable and the romance is very well developed. Add in some very pertinent social comment and vibrant supporting characters, and you’ve got an engaging novel that’s well worth a few hours of anyone’s time.
Julia Justiss opens her new Sisters of Scandal series with A Most Unsuitable Match, in which a young lady tainted by a scandal not of her own making strives to obey every strict rule of society and to make herself into a pattern-card of propriety in an attempt to free herself from the unkind gossip that dogs her. Prudence Lattimar and her twin sister Temperance (sisters of Christopher Lattimar, hero of the author’s last Hadley’s Hellions book, Secret Lessons with the Rake ) are now in their early twenties but have yet to have a London Season. There are various reasons for this – illness, mourning, a birth – but the most recent one is the worst of all; Pru and Temper’s reputations are already on very shaky ground thanks to their mother’s reputation for loose morals, and the fact that a pair of young bucks have just fought a duel over her promises to be the death knell of yet another Season. Lady Vraux is renowned for having had a string of lovers over the years and it’s common knowledge that all of her children have different fathers, only of them her husband – and gossip paints her daughters as chips off the old block. Prudence wants nothing more from life than a husband she can at least esteem, a home and family, and to live far from the bustle of London society and its attendant gossip – but her mother’s notoriety condemns her before she so much as shows her face in society, and she despairs of ever being able have the sort of life she wants.
Unlike Temperance, who would much rather go adventuring abroad hunting antiquities than stay in England hunting a husband, Prudence decides to try her luck in Bath. With the London Season starting, society in Bath will be a little thinner on the ground, but there will still be plenty to do and, no doubt, some eligible gentlemen who might prove to be to her liking.
Lieutenant Lord John Treadwell, youngest son of Marquess of Barkley, has recently returned from service in India and is visiting his aunt in Bath while he recuperates from a leg wound. After seven years in the army, he’s planning on resigning his commission and going into business; as the fourth son of a spendthrift father, he has to support himself by his own efforts, in spite of society’s horror at the idea of a gentleman working for his living. His aunt would be happier if he’d take the time-honoured approach of marrying an heiress, but Johnnie won’t hear of that.
“I happen to believe setting up a trading operation is a better route to wealth than sacrificing myself on the altar of some India nabob hoping to marry his daughter into the aristocracy.”
At his first sight of Prudence Lattimar, Johnnie is thoroughly smitten and engineers an introduction even though his aunt insists she’s precisely the sort of female he needs to avoid. Word is already circulating that he’s a fortune hunter, and given he’s the scion of a family of rakehells and widely known to be something of a rogue, the last thing he needs is for his name to be coupled with a woman of Prudence’s reputation. Yet right from the first, Johnnie gives no credence to the gossip, preferring instead to believe the evidence of his own eyes and ears – which have heard nothing to Pru’s detriment other than the scandal that is so gleefully circulated about her mother.
Pru is similarly attracted to the dashing young officer, but knows all too well that an association with him is something she can’t afford. With her own reputation in such a precarious state, she has to appear above reproach at all times, and spending time with a known rake will only serve to reinforce the completely unfounded rumours that continue to circulate about her. She recognises the longing he stirs within her as desire, but forces herself to set it aside, instead concentrating on a far more promising matrimonial prospect, Lord Fitzroy-Price, the handsome youngest son of a duke who is waiting to be appointed an ecclesiastical living. Being the wife of a clergyman would go a long way towards rehabilitating Pru in the eyes of society, so she determines to forget Johnnie and concentrate on realising her ambition to find a respectable husband. But she quickly realises that hers is not the only reputation being misrepresented; Fitzroy-Price may seem charming, but he’s self-absorbed and his motives are mercenary, and while Johnnie might be a rogue, his heart is true and he never pretends to be something he’s not.
A Most Unsuitable Match is a warm, tender romance between two people dogged by scandal for most of their lives, who connect with and understand each other on an instinctual level because of those shared experiences. Pru struggles every day to suppress her intelligence, vivacity and wit and has to endure completely undeserved censure, and Ms. Justiss makes some incredibly relevant observations about the ridiculous double standards that continue to exist for women almost two hundred years after the time in which this story is set. The way Johnnie supports and champions Pru is wonderful to see, and I loved that she felt comfortable and able to be herself around him, finding the sort of freedom in his company she rarely experienced with anyone else.
The secondary characters add richness and colour to the story, especially the two aunts, who care deeply for Pru and Johnnie and only want what’s best for them; while Johnnie’s tales of his time in India are fascinating, showing clearly how much he respects and loves the country, its inhabitants and culture. The predictability of an event that happens near the end kept the novel from DIK status by a whisper, but overall, A Most Unsuitable Match is a marvellous read. The leads are lively and charming, coming across as real people rather than two dimensional cyphers, the longing between them is palpable and the romance is very well developed. Add in some very pertinent social comment and vibrant supporting characters, and you’ve got an engaging novel that’s well worth a few hours of anyone’s time.
January 7, 2019
Ahhhhh!!!!! Start to finish in one sitting (granted it’s late so everyone is asleep as I should be as work/reality will be here before one knows it) this is how AWESOME this novel is OMG I love it!!!!!!! Fearless females plus a dashing rake with morales & wit!!!!! This novel was interlaced with so many different emotions as well concepts that delved deeper than the typical novel on the surface romances often attempt!! Very indicative of that era that women’s reputation was built & torn into shreds by slandering gossip! It was all about acceptance & polite social graces whereas now that culture seems so foreign plus downright ridiculous in more ways than one with the lack of female equality & empowerment!!!!!! I’m really glad these types of characters, storylines & authors truly grasp this era & still make badass bluestockings that’s shows one can be perfectly content on their own, but humans need more than that & finding your soulmate is amazing!!!! I live vicariously thru these characters & appreciate the authors that can truly make reading this the perfect escapism to enjoy!!!!!! Highly recommended obviously will be on the look out for the next in series as well as other books by this author!!!!!!!!!!!
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September 1, 2018Miniseries: Sisters of Scandal
October 30, 2021
Mumu' - per RFS
.
Care Fenici, con grande piacere voglio consigliarvi questo libro che si è rivelato un’interessante scoperta.
La protagonista, Prudence, è un’eroina in linea col proprio tempo: vorrebbe un uomo che la ami e con cui vivere un’esistenza tranquilla in una deliziosa villa di campagna, possibilmente circondata da una nidiata di bambini. Purtroppo per lei, tuttavia, realizzare questo desiderio non è semplice come si potrebbe pensare. Nonostante disponga di una ricca dote e di una bellezza fuori dall’ordinario, trovare un pretendente disposto a sposarla è un’impresa piuttosto ardua.Lo sa bene sin da bambina,poiché deve portare sulle spalle il peso di una madre alquanto libertina.
Se la conservatrice società londinese chiudeva di buon grado un occhio verso le avventure degli uomini, non si poteva dire altrettanto di quelle delle donne. La condotta della madre era uno degli argomenti preferiti dei salotti più importanti della City; non stupisce quindi che la sua fama sia un fardello veramente pesante, al punto di spingere la bella Pru a cercare marito nella tranquilla Bath.
È proprio in questa cittadina che incontra Lord Harden, futuro vicario che corrisponde alla sua idea di uomo perfetto. Ma siamo sicuri che sia un vero gentiluomo, oè solo un furfante interessato alla ricca dote? Allo stesso tempo, però, c’è un altro a catturare il cuore di Prudence: l’affascinante luogotenente, Lord John Trethwell, lì per riprendersi da una brutta ferita alla gamba. Sarà davvero lo spiantato giramondo che tutti descrivono, o il vero gentiluomo pronto a correre in aiuto della sua dama ogni volta che si trova in pericolo? La giovane sente dentro di sé un fuoco che arde per Trethwell, tuttavia mantiene sempre un atteggiamento di calma compostezza. È molto condizionata dai giudizi poco velati della buona società di Bath, e cerca continuamente di scrollarsi di dosso la nomea da libertina che si porta dietro dall’infanzia. Così, nonostante il suo cuore batta appassionatamente per il luogotenente, è decisa a seppellire i propri sentimenti in fondo all’anima pur di sposare Lord Harden, e vivere finalmente come una donna rispettabile. Ma sarà in grado di mettere a tacere le sue emozioni, o la sua vera natura esploderà tra le braccia del vero amore?
Personalmente ho trovato questo romanzo molto interessante, soprattutto la protagonista che, per una volta, non è stata presentata come un’avventuriera ribelle pronta a sfidare le convenzioni sociali; figura che apprezzo molto, ma inizio a trovarla anche poco originale. Invece Pru è una ragazza in linea con il suo tempo e con i valori propri della società. Ma i suoi progetti vengono ostacolati dalla condotta della madre immorale e lasciva; addirittura solo uno dei quattro figli è legittimo! Anche questo è elemento di assoluta novità per il filone Regency.
Nel romanzo viene dato largo spazio ai personaggi principali, che sono ben definiti e caratterizzati. Non mancano i dialoghi diretti tra i protagonisti, ben equilibrati con i momenti di riflessione personale che ci permettono di capire i veri sentimenti, pensieri e desideri degli stessi.
Ben definite anche le descrizioni della suggestiva Bath, centro termale e ritrovo della nobiltà londinese in cerca di pace e ristoro.
La trama è scorrevole, il linguaggio semplice e diretto, e viene dato parecchio risalto ai sentimenti dei protagonisti.
Davvero STRACONSIGLIATO!
.
Care Fenici, con grande piacere voglio consigliarvi questo libro che si è rivelato un’interessante scoperta.
La protagonista, Prudence, è un’eroina in linea col proprio tempo: vorrebbe un uomo che la ami e con cui vivere un’esistenza tranquilla in una deliziosa villa di campagna, possibilmente circondata da una nidiata di bambini. Purtroppo per lei, tuttavia, realizzare questo desiderio non è semplice come si potrebbe pensare. Nonostante disponga di una ricca dote e di una bellezza fuori dall’ordinario, trovare un pretendente disposto a sposarla è un’impresa piuttosto ardua.Lo sa bene sin da bambina,poiché deve portare sulle spalle il peso di una madre alquanto libertina.
Se la conservatrice società londinese chiudeva di buon grado un occhio verso le avventure degli uomini, non si poteva dire altrettanto di quelle delle donne. La condotta della madre era uno degli argomenti preferiti dei salotti più importanti della City; non stupisce quindi che la sua fama sia un fardello veramente pesante, al punto di spingere la bella Pru a cercare marito nella tranquilla Bath.
È proprio in questa cittadina che incontra Lord Harden, futuro vicario che corrisponde alla sua idea di uomo perfetto. Ma siamo sicuri che sia un vero gentiluomo, oè solo un furfante interessato alla ricca dote? Allo stesso tempo, però, c’è un altro a catturare il cuore di Prudence: l’affascinante luogotenente, Lord John Trethwell, lì per riprendersi da una brutta ferita alla gamba. Sarà davvero lo spiantato giramondo che tutti descrivono, o il vero gentiluomo pronto a correre in aiuto della sua dama ogni volta che si trova in pericolo? La giovane sente dentro di sé un fuoco che arde per Trethwell, tuttavia mantiene sempre un atteggiamento di calma compostezza. È molto condizionata dai giudizi poco velati della buona società di Bath, e cerca continuamente di scrollarsi di dosso la nomea da libertina che si porta dietro dall’infanzia. Così, nonostante il suo cuore batta appassionatamente per il luogotenente, è decisa a seppellire i propri sentimenti in fondo all’anima pur di sposare Lord Harden, e vivere finalmente come una donna rispettabile. Ma sarà in grado di mettere a tacere le sue emozioni, o la sua vera natura esploderà tra le braccia del vero amore?
Personalmente ho trovato questo romanzo molto interessante, soprattutto la protagonista che, per una volta, non è stata presentata come un’avventuriera ribelle pronta a sfidare le convenzioni sociali; figura che apprezzo molto, ma inizio a trovarla anche poco originale. Invece Pru è una ragazza in linea con il suo tempo e con i valori propri della società. Ma i suoi progetti vengono ostacolati dalla condotta della madre immorale e lasciva; addirittura solo uno dei quattro figli è legittimo! Anche questo è elemento di assoluta novità per il filone Regency.
Nel romanzo viene dato largo spazio ai personaggi principali, che sono ben definiti e caratterizzati. Non mancano i dialoghi diretti tra i protagonisti, ben equilibrati con i momenti di riflessione personale che ci permettono di capire i veri sentimenti, pensieri e desideri degli stessi.
Ben definite anche le descrizioni della suggestiva Bath, centro termale e ritrovo della nobiltà londinese in cerca di pace e ristoro.
La trama è scorrevole, il linguaggio semplice e diretto, e viene dato parecchio risalto ai sentimenti dei protagonisti.
Davvero STRACONSIGLIATO!
October 11, 2018
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-Ou
Prudence Lattimar comes from a very scandalous family. She and her siblings are known as the “Vraux Miscellany” due to their being sired by different fathers. Pru’s debut has been postponed multiple times, and the latest delay is due to another scandal her mother was involved in, albeit unwittingly. Knowing that remaining in town will only make her situation worse, Pru retreats to Bath with her Aunt Gussie. Pru longs for a solid marriage and children, and hopes to meet someone, perhaps a clergyman, who will overlook her scandalous family, and build a life with her in the country. If it takes Pru behaving impeccably and suppressing her natural vivaciousness, she’s willing to do that.
Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell is a former soldier who is in Bath visiting his Aunt Pen, while recuperating from an injury. Johnnie’s family is somewhat notorious, as well, and he has a reputation as a rake and an adventurer. Johnnie’s plans are to find investors to support his proposed trading business, and when he’s well, that means he’ll continue traveling the world. Throughout Johnnie’s life, it was Aunt Pen who supported him and showed him love and affection. Now she’d like to see him marry a respectable young lady.
It’s inevitable that Pru and Johnnie meet. Each is aware of the other’s reputation, and that it’s not beneficial, or even wise, for them to form any kind of acquaintance. Yet, they immediately click. Neither of them felt any need for being anything other than their true self while with the other, and Johnnie is charmed by Pru’s genuine personality. Pru, in turn, sees the caring and honorable man behind the rakish reputation.
I love how Johnnie and Pru didn’t judge the other. He could see that Pru’s behavior has been impeccable, and the way he defends her publicly is swoonworthy. Though they know they each need a different type of person, they can’t help but feel a great friendship and camaraderie along with a potent attraction. They struggle to keep their relationship just at the friend level, but some things just can’t be denied.
A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH is a lovely, heartwarming story of two people who are wrong for each other while being perfect for each other. Their future goals are polar opposites -- she seeks a quiet life in the country while he plans to travel to faraway places. Johnnie’s and Pru’s journey to a happy future together takes them through some self discovery, and some prejudice and treachery. I love a hero who truly turns out to be a genuine hero, and that’s the case here. A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH is a warm, entertaining and romantic story which I greatly enjoyed and recommend.
Prudence Lattimar comes from a very scandalous family. She and her siblings are known as the “Vraux Miscellany” due to their being sired by different fathers. Pru’s debut has been postponed multiple times, and the latest delay is due to another scandal her mother was involved in, albeit unwittingly. Knowing that remaining in town will only make her situation worse, Pru retreats to Bath with her Aunt Gussie. Pru longs for a solid marriage and children, and hopes to meet someone, perhaps a clergyman, who will overlook her scandalous family, and build a life with her in the country. If it takes Pru behaving impeccably and suppressing her natural vivaciousness, she’s willing to do that.
Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell is a former soldier who is in Bath visiting his Aunt Pen, while recuperating from an injury. Johnnie’s family is somewhat notorious, as well, and he has a reputation as a rake and an adventurer. Johnnie’s plans are to find investors to support his proposed trading business, and when he’s well, that means he’ll continue traveling the world. Throughout Johnnie’s life, it was Aunt Pen who supported him and showed him love and affection. Now she’d like to see him marry a respectable young lady.
It’s inevitable that Pru and Johnnie meet. Each is aware of the other’s reputation, and that it’s not beneficial, or even wise, for them to form any kind of acquaintance. Yet, they immediately click. Neither of them felt any need for being anything other than their true self while with the other, and Johnnie is charmed by Pru’s genuine personality. Pru, in turn, sees the caring and honorable man behind the rakish reputation.
I love how Johnnie and Pru didn’t judge the other. He could see that Pru’s behavior has been impeccable, and the way he defends her publicly is swoonworthy. Though they know they each need a different type of person, they can’t help but feel a great friendship and camaraderie along with a potent attraction. They struggle to keep their relationship just at the friend level, but some things just can’t be denied.
A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH is a lovely, heartwarming story of two people who are wrong for each other while being perfect for each other. Their future goals are polar opposites -- she seeks a quiet life in the country while he plans to travel to faraway places. Johnnie’s and Pru’s journey to a happy future together takes them through some self discovery, and some prejudice and treachery. I love a hero who truly turns out to be a genuine hero, and that’s the case here. A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH is a warm, entertaining and romantic story which I greatly enjoyed and recommend.
September 24, 2018
Prudence and Temperance are twin daughters of a woman who has a “reputation.” In British society that means that both girls have the same reputation. Evidently British society never lets facts get in the way of a good supposition.
When the most recent maternal scandal comes along, the girls' introduction into society is called off, again.
Temperance stays in London.
Prudence is whisked away to Bath by an aunt who hopes to find a possible husband in the smaller city. The idea is the gossip will not be quite so disagreeable in Bath. And a very large dowry should help in the hunt for an eligible young man.
Prudence has a dream of living in the country, in a small village and being able to live a life with no gossip and no scandal. She would be happy with a husband who loved her and a family of children she could love.
There are not many young men available in Bath. One of them is the son of a duke. He is in Bath with his aunt. He says his future will include him becoming a minister. He seems ideal.
Another young man, Johnnie, is a former soldier who is recovering from a combat wound. He is also in Bath with an aunt. His reputation is such that Prudence is warned not to be seen with him. She has enough going against her as it is without adding a wicked friend. Johnnie's aunt hopes to find him a wife who can convince him to settle down.
Within this story, just as in real life, people are not always as they appear. And plans do not always end up coming out as expected.
Prudence is an intelligent young woman who has had a difficult childhood. Her mother has a reputation and her father has no interest in his children. She and her sister have different desires for their future, but neither of them expect to have an easy time finding their happiness.
Ms Justiss has created characters who hold the reader's interest. Pru and Johnnie are a couple who are charming and interesting. Johnnie describes his adventures in India and Pru can almost picture the distant scenes. Johnnie is a true adventurer.
The secondary characters add a great deal to the story. It is easy to see that society had little interest in truth or character or integrity. It is more about who are your “people” and what is your image to the ton.
I see your wounded soldier and raise you the son of a duke.
This plot is fast moving with no time when the action is not moving forward. There is gentle humor which I liked very much. There is villainy. We see that someone's accident of birth does not equal quality of human being.
I enjoyed this book very much. I am a fan of Ms Justiss and this story is a prime example of what I like. She creates events which move a story forward and people who are admirable, likable and good friends.
I received the book from the author. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are completely my own.
When the most recent maternal scandal comes along, the girls' introduction into society is called off, again.
Temperance stays in London.
Prudence is whisked away to Bath by an aunt who hopes to find a possible husband in the smaller city. The idea is the gossip will not be quite so disagreeable in Bath. And a very large dowry should help in the hunt for an eligible young man.
Prudence has a dream of living in the country, in a small village and being able to live a life with no gossip and no scandal. She would be happy with a husband who loved her and a family of children she could love.
There are not many young men available in Bath. One of them is the son of a duke. He is in Bath with his aunt. He says his future will include him becoming a minister. He seems ideal.
Another young man, Johnnie, is a former soldier who is recovering from a combat wound. He is also in Bath with an aunt. His reputation is such that Prudence is warned not to be seen with him. She has enough going against her as it is without adding a wicked friend. Johnnie's aunt hopes to find him a wife who can convince him to settle down.
Within this story, just as in real life, people are not always as they appear. And plans do not always end up coming out as expected.
Prudence is an intelligent young woman who has had a difficult childhood. Her mother has a reputation and her father has no interest in his children. She and her sister have different desires for their future, but neither of them expect to have an easy time finding their happiness.
Ms Justiss has created characters who hold the reader's interest. Pru and Johnnie are a couple who are charming and interesting. Johnnie describes his adventures in India and Pru can almost picture the distant scenes. Johnnie is a true adventurer.
The secondary characters add a great deal to the story. It is easy to see that society had little interest in truth or character or integrity. It is more about who are your “people” and what is your image to the ton.
I see your wounded soldier and raise you the son of a duke.
This plot is fast moving with no time when the action is not moving forward. There is gentle humor which I liked very much. There is villainy. We see that someone's accident of birth does not equal quality of human being.
I enjoyed this book very much. I am a fan of Ms Justiss and this story is a prime example of what I like. She creates events which move a story forward and people who are admirable, likable and good friends.
I received the book from the author. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are completely my own.
October 17, 2018
Prudence Lattimar is tired of living in the shadow of her infamous mother. She and her twin are thought to be of loose morals even though they are innocents. Now their mother is involved in another scandal so they must put off their London Season. Prudence and her Aunt Gussie go to Bath. Here she hopes to make a suitable match. Her dream is to marry a vicar and live in the country where she could raise Her longed for children. Even here Prudence is shunned until Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell intervenes. Pru is drawn to this devilish man, but she knows that he's unsuitable. Johnnie is considered a fortune Hunter. Can these two socially unacceptable people find happiness? I loved watching them grow together and fall in love. Johnnie is such a caring and protective man. I fell for him. He's so honorable. Pru touched me with her dreams. She wants security which she never had as a child. I hated the drama caused by Lord Halden. He was despicable. Julia Justiss wrote a feel good story with wonderful characters. I couldn't put this book down. I loved the setting and the sparkling dialogue. I can't wait for The next Sisters of Scandal story.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
October 10, 2018
Johnnie and Prudence's story was a delight. It had the right amount of funny moments mixed with the perfect drama. The perfect example of why I love to read historical romance.
Prudence is a woman tainted not by her own doing but because of her mother’s reputation. Johnnie is considered the black sheep of his family and even though his reputation is not considered perfect, it’s still much better than Prudence’s because he is a man.
Their relationship was sweet yet full of passion. He cared for her but knew that his friendship would further diminish her chances of marrying into a good family. Prudence was no innocent naiveté but always behaved with propriety, just as it was expected from her. There were lots of times when I thought society was being so unfair to her (and basically every other woman) and it sure made me glad that I didn’t get to live back then. I was happy when they managed to find a way to be together without having to give up on the things they wanted out of life.
This book was not as “spicy” as the author’s previous series but it was definitely full of heart and tender moments, and of course accurate to its times which is one of the reasons I love this author.
**I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher**
Prudence is a woman tainted not by her own doing but because of her mother’s reputation. Johnnie is considered the black sheep of his family and even though his reputation is not considered perfect, it’s still much better than Prudence’s because he is a man.
Their relationship was sweet yet full of passion. He cared for her but knew that his friendship would further diminish her chances of marrying into a good family. Prudence was no innocent naiveté but always behaved with propriety, just as it was expected from her. There were lots of times when I thought society was being so unfair to her (and basically every other woman) and it sure made me glad that I didn’t get to live back then. I was happy when they managed to find a way to be together without having to give up on the things they wanted out of life.
This book was not as “spicy” as the author’s previous series but it was definitely full of heart and tender moments, and of course accurate to its times which is one of the reasons I love this author.
**I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher**
October 19, 2018
Julia Justiss writes another winner! I love her Regency historical romances. As they often do, this one features an unusual heroine and a hero to die for.:) She had me hooked from the first page. Loved it!
September 16, 2018
A tale of misguided intentions. Looking for love in the what you believe to be the right places and overlooking what’s right in front of you. Fiery and funny characters. Filled with many witty anecdotes and tidbits told by Johnnie to make Prudence laugh and believe in herself.
April 24, 2019
3.5 stars. A tender, sweet story about two outcasts finding each other and discovering what it means to fall in love.
This is exactly what it says on the tin: Prudence Lattimar has been tarred with her mother's infamy to the point where she can't have even a delayed Season in London. Desperate for the chance to make a suitable marriage, she accompanies her aunt to Bath, instead, where she's hoping to find an upright young man, possibly a clergyman, with whom she can settle and repair her tattered reputation.
While there, she catches the eye of Haldon Fitzroy-Price, the younger son of Duke who is set to take holy orders and be gifted with a living by his brother. Fitzroy-Price is tall and handsome with every appearance of a proper gentleman, but as Pru gets to know him better, she senses cracks in his facade, and spends a lot of time convincing herself that becoming a vicar will force him to grow up and mature, both in his pursuits and in his taste of friends. He spends most of his time with a cadre of play-soldiers who are stationed just outside Bath and who take pride in insulting Pru to her face.
There is another soldier on the scene, however, one who is recovering from a serious injury sustained in India. Lt Johnnie Trethwell is also a younger son, one who was cast out from his immediate family as a child and who only had an aunt to care for him. Rumor has it that he's waiting patiently on the old girl to settle money on him, or to find a rich widow to marry so as to fund his adventures.
Johnnie feels an immediate spark for the gorgeous, voluptuous Pru, and even though they are warned away from each other by their respective families, they strike up something of a friendship. Johnnie knows what it feels like to be unfairly whispered about by Society, and Pru is trying so hard to put her best foot forward that he wants to help her in any way that he can. He also knows that Halden is a total ass and wants to save her from him if possible. To his credit, he realizes that she has to learn about Halden's true motives for herself, so he keeps an eye on her from afar, ready to sweep her into his arms and comfort her when she learns the truth.
I really enjoyed the fact that these two truly did become friends first. They got to know and admire each other for something beyond their physical appearances. They feel comfortable in each other's presence and share pieces of their real selves. They feel they can be honest with each other, and wish to pursue their friendship, which they do. When he finally does comfort her after she learns just how deeply the tarnish on her reputation runs, it was an emotional gut-punch of the best sort.
The heat factor of this book is on the low side, which was also a refreshing change of pace. It's a true friends-to-lovers romance in the face of certain adversity. So why did I knock off 1 1/2 stars?
These two also held onto their erroneous beliefs that the other was so set in their ways (Pru wanting to live in the country and breed horses; Johnnie being a restless wanderer who could never settle down to one country. let alone with one woman) for way too long. In spite of the way they acted towards each other, they kept telling themselves they could never be together, even after Lord Halden was out of the picture. It became irritating and tiresome. There were also continuity errors all over the place (plot points, clothing, sequences of events) which should've been caught in the editing process.
In spite of the niggles, this was a lovely story and a refreshing change of pace: a titled and wealthy heroine, a non-titled hero, the setting of Bath instead of London. I'm looking forward to reading the second in the series, starring Pru's twin Temperance (though I am having a hard time with the idea of "Temper" being a nickname...).
This is exactly what it says on the tin: Prudence Lattimar has been tarred with her mother's infamy to the point where she can't have even a delayed Season in London. Desperate for the chance to make a suitable marriage, she accompanies her aunt to Bath, instead, where she's hoping to find an upright young man, possibly a clergyman, with whom she can settle and repair her tattered reputation.
While there, she catches the eye of Haldon Fitzroy-Price, the younger son of Duke who is set to take holy orders and be gifted with a living by his brother. Fitzroy-Price is tall and handsome with every appearance of a proper gentleman, but as Pru gets to know him better, she senses cracks in his facade, and spends a lot of time convincing herself that becoming a vicar will force him to grow up and mature, both in his pursuits and in his taste of friends. He spends most of his time with a cadre of play-soldiers who are stationed just outside Bath and who take pride in insulting Pru to her face.
There is another soldier on the scene, however, one who is recovering from a serious injury sustained in India. Lt Johnnie Trethwell is also a younger son, one who was cast out from his immediate family as a child and who only had an aunt to care for him. Rumor has it that he's waiting patiently on the old girl to settle money on him, or to find a rich widow to marry so as to fund his adventures.
Johnnie feels an immediate spark for the gorgeous, voluptuous Pru, and even though they are warned away from each other by their respective families, they strike up something of a friendship. Johnnie knows what it feels like to be unfairly whispered about by Society, and Pru is trying so hard to put her best foot forward that he wants to help her in any way that he can. He also knows that Halden is a total ass and wants to save her from him if possible. To his credit, he realizes that she has to learn about Halden's true motives for herself, so he keeps an eye on her from afar, ready to sweep her into his arms and comfort her when she learns the truth.
I really enjoyed the fact that these two truly did become friends first. They got to know and admire each other for something beyond their physical appearances. They feel comfortable in each other's presence and share pieces of their real selves. They feel they can be honest with each other, and wish to pursue their friendship, which they do. When he finally does comfort her after she learns just how deeply the tarnish on her reputation runs, it was an emotional gut-punch of the best sort.
The heat factor of this book is on the low side, which was also a refreshing change of pace. It's a true friends-to-lovers romance in the face of certain adversity. So why did I knock off 1 1/2 stars?
These two also held onto their erroneous beliefs that the other was so set in their ways (Pru wanting to live in the country and breed horses; Johnnie being a restless wanderer who could never settle down to one country. let alone with one woman) for way too long. In spite of the way they acted towards each other, they kept telling themselves they could never be together, even after Lord Halden was out of the picture. It became irritating and tiresome. There were also continuity errors all over the place (plot points, clothing, sequences of events) which should've been caught in the editing process.
In spite of the niggles, this was a lovely story and a refreshing change of pace: a titled and wealthy heroine, a non-titled hero, the setting of Bath instead of London. I'm looking forward to reading the second in the series, starring Pru's twin Temperance (though I am having a hard time with the idea of "Temper" being a nickname...).
September 21, 2018
When two men fight a duel over their mother, twin sisters Temperance and Prudence Lattimar know that all hope is lost for a Season, again, for the Scandal Sisters. Temperance is uninterested in finding a husband, but Prudence is an idealist and a romantic: she wants a husband and children, and it’s in this frame of mind that she departs for Bath with her Aunt Gussie. Away from the gossip, Pru might have the ghost of a chance of finding a clergyman in need of her considerable dowry, and with whom she could retire to the country, away from the gossip. The first man she meets is the dashing adventurer Lieutenant John Trethwell, fresh off India and recuperating from an injury. Everyone knows Johnnie is a rake in search of a wealthy bride; precisely the sort of man Pru must avoid. Yet, they soon form a comfortable friendship while he helps her pursue her quest for her ideal husband.
It took only the prologue to convince me that A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH would be enchanting! I got the feel of the Lattimar family in a nutshell, I embraced both Pru and Temperance, and the writing nearly gave me the vapours within a few pages! Julia Justiss confirms her incomparable talent as a wordsmith in spectacular fashion: her prose has never been so luminous and precise; the dialogues are works of art; and her descriptions of Bath and India are so vivid, I saw everything she described. Pru is so very brave that she goes as far as to suppress her true nature in public so that her reputation remains as pristine as possible; she has no margin for errors of any kind. Johnnie is an absolute charmer who knows what he wants and how to get it, and he does the same for Pru. When Pru and Johnnie are together, their chemistry is such that I could almost see the glow surrounding them. They make each other happy, they know they cannot be together, and they are able to live with that for a while, and grow immensely.
A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH shows clearly how gossip affects people, and the wretched double-standard society inflicts on women, and that made me appreciate even more Ms. Justiss’ view on Pru’s “scandalous” mother. The secondary characters are exceptionally well drawn: they frame the main characters and add depth and emotion to the overall story. Pru’s Aunt Gussie is absolutely marvellous, and I hope she will be part of Temperance’s story. I could have done with fewer reminders of Pru’s virginity and Johnnie’s roguishness, but I think both characters’ enthralling backstories made up for it. On a more superficial note, if you are going to judge a book by its cover, do so by any means for A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH: this is what Pru and Johnnie look like, and the splendour of the picture does justice to the tone of the book, the splendid romance, and the glorious writing.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It took only the prologue to convince me that A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH would be enchanting! I got the feel of the Lattimar family in a nutshell, I embraced both Pru and Temperance, and the writing nearly gave me the vapours within a few pages! Julia Justiss confirms her incomparable talent as a wordsmith in spectacular fashion: her prose has never been so luminous and precise; the dialogues are works of art; and her descriptions of Bath and India are so vivid, I saw everything she described. Pru is so very brave that she goes as far as to suppress her true nature in public so that her reputation remains as pristine as possible; she has no margin for errors of any kind. Johnnie is an absolute charmer who knows what he wants and how to get it, and he does the same for Pru. When Pru and Johnnie are together, their chemistry is such that I could almost see the glow surrounding them. They make each other happy, they know they cannot be together, and they are able to live with that for a while, and grow immensely.
A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH shows clearly how gossip affects people, and the wretched double-standard society inflicts on women, and that made me appreciate even more Ms. Justiss’ view on Pru’s “scandalous” mother. The secondary characters are exceptionally well drawn: they frame the main characters and add depth and emotion to the overall story. Pru’s Aunt Gussie is absolutely marvellous, and I hope she will be part of Temperance’s story. I could have done with fewer reminders of Pru’s virginity and Johnnie’s roguishness, but I think both characters’ enthralling backstories made up for it. On a more superficial note, if you are going to judge a book by its cover, do so by any means for A MOST UNSUITABLE MATCH: this is what Pru and Johnnie look like, and the splendour of the picture does justice to the tone of the book, the splendid romance, and the glorious writing.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 16, 2018
I just love my Regency romances. This one focuses on Prudence Lattimar, sister of Christopher Lattimar, the hero of Secret Lessons with the Rake. Their mother has caused scandal, which impedes Pru's ability to get married herself. She goes to Bath, a resort members of her society level used to go to for the Season. There are fewer available men, so Pru is courted by a titled man who just wants her money. She does meet a lieutenant, who suits her better but isn't interested in settling down to a country estate. Oh, how troubled and tangled her life becomes before she decides to not worry about her reputation and instead reach for what she really wants.
I especially like the focus on the female side of the Marriage Mart action. This is one of the few things women at the time could have a say in, and they generally only had a few short months to meet and decide on the man they would be spending the rest of their lives with. Everything depended on their reputations and the reputations of the rest of their family.
I received the copy of the book I read for this review from the author, and I thank her for her work. I highly recommend this book.
I especially like the focus on the female side of the Marriage Mart action. This is one of the few things women at the time could have a say in, and they generally only had a few short months to meet and decide on the man they would be spending the rest of their lives with. Everything depended on their reputations and the reputations of the rest of their family.
I received the copy of the book I read for this review from the author, and I thank her for her work. I highly recommend this book.
February 16, 2019
After the latest scandal surrounding her mother, innocent Prudence Lattimar has fled to Bath because there's no way she can have a season. With her dubious background, she must marry a man of impeccable reputation. A clergyman with a title would be perfect. And she must steer clear of Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell, his family is as notorious as hers, no matter how funny, charming and unfailingly honourable he is!
A very well written book with lovely characters. I loved both Johnnie & Pru who were just so perfect for each other. He was honourable, caring, protective & willing to see the real Pru. Pru had always known that her mother’s reputation could mar her own so she always acted the demure young lady. Whilst I loved the book I was outraged at the way women were treated by the ton, which highlighted how well the author portrayed a woman’s lot. I wasn’t grabbed from the first page but the book was more of a slow burner for me, my interest growing & growing until I couldn’t put it down & by half way through I was engrossed. I’m so looking forward to Temper’s story
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A very well written book with lovely characters. I loved both Johnnie & Pru who were just so perfect for each other. He was honourable, caring, protective & willing to see the real Pru. Pru had always known that her mother’s reputation could mar her own so she always acted the demure young lady. Whilst I loved the book I was outraged at the way women were treated by the ton, which highlighted how well the author portrayed a woman’s lot. I wasn’t grabbed from the first page but the book was more of a slow burner for me, my interest growing & growing until I couldn’t put it down & by half way through I was engrossed. I’m so looking forward to Temper’s story
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 1, 2018
Delightful.
Tarred by association with her scandalous mother, Pru’s dream of a husband and children looks forlorn, despite her healthy dowry. Certainly a season in London is doomed after a recent scandal involving her mother but perhaps a trip to Bath might net her a country gentleman who can rehabilitate her reputation? Whilst her introduction into Bath society is a little rocky, the help of adventurer Lt Johnny Trethwell, ensures her acceptance by the toplofty and grande dame of Bath, Lady Arbuthnot. Pru finds Johnny fascinating but knows his notoriety will not help her in her husband-hunting quest; however Lord Halden, the younger son of a Duke, due to enter holy orders may be just the ticket. Found this to be a lovely and delightful story, with a look at how slanderous and prejudiced the ton could be, particularly to women. It was nice to read an eBook with no typos nor glaring modernisms.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tarred by association with her scandalous mother, Pru’s dream of a husband and children looks forlorn, despite her healthy dowry. Certainly a season in London is doomed after a recent scandal involving her mother but perhaps a trip to Bath might net her a country gentleman who can rehabilitate her reputation? Whilst her introduction into Bath society is a little rocky, the help of adventurer Lt Johnny Trethwell, ensures her acceptance by the toplofty and grande dame of Bath, Lady Arbuthnot. Pru finds Johnny fascinating but knows his notoriety will not help her in her husband-hunting quest; however Lord Halden, the younger son of a Duke, due to enter holy orders may be just the ticket. Found this to be a lovely and delightful story, with a look at how slanderous and prejudiced the ton could be, particularly to women. It was nice to read an eBook with no typos nor glaring modernisms.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 18, 2018
A Most Unsuitable Match is an enjoyable story of trying to live down the reputation of family and find happiness in doing so. This is the first in a series that looks to be filled with laughs, a little drama and entertaining characters. All Prudence is looking for is a quiet little hamlet, a respectable marriage and a family of her own without the infamy that she has grown up with. Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell is a younger son with a reputation of being a rake and is home recuperating from a leg injury. He likes adventuring and living on his own until he meets Prudence. What starts as friendship soon grows into feelings of passion and commitment that will change both their outlooks on what they want for their future.
I received this book from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
I received this book from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
January 25, 2019
A Most Unsuitable Match by Julia Justiss is the first book in her Sisters of Scandal series and definitely worth reading.
Prudence Lattimar has fled to Bath to get away from her mother's latest scandal, but finding a suitable match is extremely difficult since she must find someone with an impeccable reputation in spite of her family's reputation.
Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell has caught her eye, but he won't do as a suitable match because his family's reputations is as notorious as hers. They decide that their friendship will have to do while Johnnie begins to help her in her husband finding endeavors.
I'm looking forward to reading more books in this wonderful new series.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Prudence Lattimar has fled to Bath to get away from her mother's latest scandal, but finding a suitable match is extremely difficult since she must find someone with an impeccable reputation in spite of her family's reputation.
Lieutenant Johnnie Trethwell has caught her eye, but he won't do as a suitable match because his family's reputations is as notorious as hers. They decide that their friendship will have to do while Johnnie begins to help her in her husband finding endeavors.
I'm looking forward to reading more books in this wonderful new series.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
November 19, 2018
I enjoyed this story. Pru tried so hard to be what people expected in order to move beyond her family issues. I loved her determination to have a "normal" family but enjoyed when her wilder side came out, the need for freedom from censure. Johnnie chose a road unacceptable to most people, but Pru enjoyed his stories and adventures. The two played well to the true person inside, and I was glad to watch them move beyond expectations. I recommend this story.
I received an ARC of this story as a gift, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received an ARC of this story as a gift, and this is my unsolicited review.
October 5, 2018
I like the Regency era to read. There is always lots of action to fall in the book! This is one of them. I am so glad that Julia let me read and review this book. Prudence is a twin and wants to find a husband. She is meeting a group and also Lieutenant John Trethwell. He is looking after her. She will need him. She is in bad. I won't tell to spoil for you. I liked this book. I had to walk away a lot. I hope you will like this book. Enjoy your reading! You won't regret this!
February 2, 2019
Prudence is trying to escape scandal surrounding her mother. Johnnie is trying to escape scandal surrounding his father. They believe they will be better off as friends and do not see a relationship filled with love in their future. They keep running into each other in different places and soon realize that the life partner they are seeking is each other.
April 20, 2019
Julia Justiss is a gifted author of Regency Romance, writing wonderful characterizations while giving the reader an absorbing view of life in the Regency Era. With "A Most Unsuitable Match", we are introduced to the scandal-ridden Lattimar sisters--notorious not through their own making, but through the unsavory reputation of their mother. Having reached a later age without a proper introduction to society, Prudence Lattimar finds her hopes further dwindled by her mother's latest amorous adventure. Retreating to the lesser societal light of Bath, Prudence hopes to meet a reputable gentleman of good character with whom she would find harmonious married life and happiness in motherhood. However, the man she meets who captures her attention and sets her heart aflutter is Johnnie Trethwell, a charming scoundrel home from service to heal a wounded leg. Johnnie needs to make a quality match as well--a lady with a genteel reputation and a generous dowry to refresh his dwindled family fortune. However, he is quite taken with Prudence, whom he finds not only lovely, but also witty and kind. Prudence sees beyond the gossip around Johnnie, knowing him to be her true friend and champion. While they both realize that they are not what the other is seeking, a certain spark and an appreciation of each other's intelligence and true character adds a deeper longing for their friendship to become something more. Can love give them the courage to reach past society's strictures and grab a future filled with happiness? "A Most Unsuitable Match" will captivate readers, and they will be most eager to read "The Earl's Inconvenient Wife"--the story of Prudence's sister, Temperance.
Book Copy Gratis Author
Book Copy Gratis Author
July 9, 2022
Is it going to win any literary award? No.
Is it a semi fun read though with some interesting points? Kinda.
Is it a semi fun read though with some interesting points? Kinda.
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August 20, 2018Miniseries: Sisters of Scandal
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