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Duke's Daughters #4
Never a Bride
She's a deliciously scandalous woman who is no man's bride…
He's a black sheep, forced to return home.
Together, they enter a make-believe betrothal that shocks London society…
After twelve years in Her Majesty's Navy, Griffith Davies must leave his sea-going life of outrageous freedom behind, forced to rejoin London society as the heir to the Duke of Northam. But though he is now shackled to the land, he has no desire to wed some innocently dull young thing. Who best to shield him from the matchmakers than a woman as notorious as he?
Lady Della Howlett's reputation was tattered years ago, so entering into a false engagement with Griffith is hardly going to make matters worse. What's one more shock to the ton to set their tongues wagging? And this pact certainly has its pleasures; the passion Griffith commands in her goes well beyond their agreement. Could her feelings might be more honorable than she'd first imagined?
Soon, Griffith and Della are arousing more than scandal; they're courting heartbreak. And more than their reputations could still be at risk.
He's a black sheep, forced to return home.
Together, they enter a make-believe betrothal that shocks London society…
After twelve years in Her Majesty's Navy, Griffith Davies must leave his sea-going life of outrageous freedom behind, forced to rejoin London society as the heir to the Duke of Northam. But though he is now shackled to the land, he has no desire to wed some innocently dull young thing. Who best to shield him from the matchmakers than a woman as notorious as he?
Lady Della Howlett's reputation was tattered years ago, so entering into a false engagement with Griffith is hardly going to make matters worse. What's one more shock to the ton to set their tongues wagging? And this pact certainly has its pleasures; the passion Griffith commands in her goes well beyond their agreement. Could her feelings might be more honorable than she'd first imagined?
Soon, Griffith and Della are arousing more than scandal; they're courting heartbreak. And more than their reputations could still be at risk.
357 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 30, 2019
120 people are currently reading
1653 people want to read
About the author
Megan Frampton
40 books1,054 followersMegan Frampton's love affair with books began when her parents moved her to a remote town in New Hampshire where there was only one television station. And then the TV broke. She devoured every book of fiction in her well-read parents' library, finding special joy in Georgette Heyer and the fairy tales collected and translated by Andrew Lang. Megan majored in English literature at Barnard College and worked in the music industry for fifteen years. She lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her husband (her former intern) and her kid.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
April 26, 2019
Series: Duke’s Daughters #4
Publication Date: 4/30/19
Number of Pages: 368
*** 2.5 Stars *** *** Review updated to add: The writing is excellent, it is the main character and events with which I take issue. ***
Several years ago, Lady Della Howlett, the older daughter of a duke, ran away with her dance instructor (with no thought about how that would affect her sisters). She wasn’t happy at home with a cold domineering father and an unfeeling mother and when Mr. Baxter showed an interest in her, she fell for him. It didn’t take her long to realize he wasn’t the one she wanted to spend her life with, but she was already expecting a child by then. Still, she wouldn’t marry him. Her parents disowned her and refused to have anything to do with either her or her child. After the birth of their daughter, Nora, Mr. Baxter took off with Della’s jewels, leaving Della and Nora to fend for themselves. Luckily for Della and Nora, they were befriended and rescued by Sarah Wattings.
Captain Griffith Davies (a Viscount) lived with constant criticism from his father. He was never good enough, never smart enough – just never – enough. With no thought for how it would affect his much-loved cousin, at the age of sixteen (or maybe it was seventeen) Griffith ran away to sea. Now, he is a much-respected captain of his own vessel, serving queen and country. He’s docked in London waiting for his ship to be reloaded before heading back out to sea. He and his first mate are at a pub getting drunk when – he’s accosted by a hat pin wielding female – and then he’s arrested by the Royal Navy.
This author’s books are always humorous and I was really looking forward to reading this one. Sadly, for me, a small bit of humor and a generally likable hero were all it had going for it. Had it not been for those two things, I would have put the book down before the halfway point and would not have finished it.
When I first began to read, I thought the biggest problem I would have with the book was that there was absolutely no way Griffith could be a Viscount. That just couldn’t have been the case. After a few chapters, that didn’t even signify. What did signify was the heroine. She grated on every nerve in my body. I have not ever read a more selfish, self-centered, controlling, demanding, unrelatable and unlikeable heroine. She was a bitchy shrew of the highest order and I totally failed to see why Griffith would desire to spend one minute with her much less fall in love with her.
I love strong, independent, resilient female leads but Della just came off as shrewish. It was her way or the highway and she was very, very, very quick to take offense. If you did not do her bidding and do it her way, she wanted nothing to do with you. You must constantly apologize to her, tell her you'd do whatever she wished, in whatever manner she wished it. Nobody could help her –not for any reason – nor could they do anything for her – which was highly hypocritical because her ‘mission’ was to find Sarah’s husband and reunite them.
Why do so many authors seem to equate being strong and resilient women with shrews? I know a lot of very strong, very resilient and very independent women and most of them are very lovable as well as strong. Why can’t a strong heroine want an equal partnership rather than demanding that it all be her way or the highway?
Now, don’t get me wrong, I had issues with Griffith as well. Not many though. I really liked him and wanted him to find his HEA with almost anyone except Della. My issue with Griffith was merely that he had no spine when it came to Della – he was obsessed with her.
The book moved along at a low altitude with Griffith and the humor keeping me going. Then, at around the 70% mark, it started losing even that altitude and by the 80-85% mark, it had taken a nose-dive and had crash landed. Griffith just needed to grow a set when it came to Della. I think the entire book had been hinting at a dom/sub thing (no, I don’t know exactly how that works) and then that scene toward the end just put the nail in the books coffin for me.
Just as an additional side note, this book had a very modern ‘feel’ to it. It was more like a contemporary read that is dressed up in period clothes.
So, the bottom line is – I would not re-read this book nor would I purchase it for a friend. I hope my view is in the minority and that the author has success with this, but I just cannot recommend it. This is all my own personal opinion -- you might love it. If you choose to read it, I hope that you really do like it.
Given Goodreads rating system, 2-stars means 'it was OK' and 3-stars means 'I Liked it'-- therefore, I believe 2-stars is the correct rating.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 4/30/19
Number of Pages: 368
*** 2.5 Stars *** *** Review updated to add: The writing is excellent, it is the main character and events with which I take issue. ***
Several years ago, Lady Della Howlett, the older daughter of a duke, ran away with her dance instructor (with no thought about how that would affect her sisters). She wasn’t happy at home with a cold domineering father and an unfeeling mother and when Mr. Baxter showed an interest in her, she fell for him. It didn’t take her long to realize he wasn’t the one she wanted to spend her life with, but she was already expecting a child by then. Still, she wouldn’t marry him. Her parents disowned her and refused to have anything to do with either her or her child. After the birth of their daughter, Nora, Mr. Baxter took off with Della’s jewels, leaving Della and Nora to fend for themselves. Luckily for Della and Nora, they were befriended and rescued by Sarah Wattings.
Captain Griffith Davies (a Viscount) lived with constant criticism from his father. He was never good enough, never smart enough – just never – enough. With no thought for how it would affect his much-loved cousin, at the age of sixteen (or maybe it was seventeen) Griffith ran away to sea. Now, he is a much-respected captain of his own vessel, serving queen and country. He’s docked in London waiting for his ship to be reloaded before heading back out to sea. He and his first mate are at a pub getting drunk when – he’s accosted by a hat pin wielding female – and then he’s arrested by the Royal Navy.
This author’s books are always humorous and I was really looking forward to reading this one. Sadly, for me, a small bit of humor and a generally likable hero were all it had going for it. Had it not been for those two things, I would have put the book down before the halfway point and would not have finished it.
When I first began to read, I thought the biggest problem I would have with the book was that there was absolutely no way Griffith could be a Viscount. That just couldn’t have been the case. After a few chapters, that didn’t even signify. What did signify was the heroine. She grated on every nerve in my body. I have not ever read a more selfish, self-centered, controlling, demanding, unrelatable and unlikeable heroine. She was a bitchy shrew of the highest order and I totally failed to see why Griffith would desire to spend one minute with her much less fall in love with her.
I love strong, independent, resilient female leads but Della just came off as shrewish. It was her way or the highway and she was very, very, very quick to take offense. If you did not do her bidding and do it her way, she wanted nothing to do with you. You must constantly apologize to her, tell her you'd do whatever she wished, in whatever manner she wished it. Nobody could help her –not for any reason – nor could they do anything for her – which was highly hypocritical because her ‘mission’ was to find Sarah’s husband and reunite them.
Why do so many authors seem to equate being strong and resilient women with shrews? I know a lot of very strong, very resilient and very independent women and most of them are very lovable as well as strong. Why can’t a strong heroine want an equal partnership rather than demanding that it all be her way or the highway?
Now, don’t get me wrong, I had issues with Griffith as well. Not many though. I really liked him and wanted him to find his HEA with almost anyone except Della. My issue with Griffith was merely that he had no spine when it came to Della – he was obsessed with her.
The book moved along at a low altitude with Griffith and the humor keeping me going. Then, at around the 70% mark, it started losing even that altitude and by the 80-85% mark, it had taken a nose-dive and had crash landed. Griffith just needed to grow a set when it came to Della. I think the entire book had been hinting at a dom/sub thing (no, I don’t know exactly how that works) and then that scene toward the end just put the nail in the books coffin for me.
Just as an additional side note, this book had a very modern ‘feel’ to it. It was more like a contemporary read that is dressed up in period clothes.
So, the bottom line is – I would not re-read this book nor would I purchase it for a friend. I hope my view is in the minority and that the author has success with this, but I just cannot recommend it. This is all my own personal opinion -- you might love it. If you choose to read it, I hope that you really do like it.
Given Goodreads rating system, 2-stars means 'it was OK' and 3-stars means 'I Liked it'-- therefore, I believe 2-stars is the correct rating.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 21, 2019
I have enjoyed all of the books in this series, so I was so excited to see a fake relationship.
I loved Della and Griffith. She’s sassy and stands up for herself. He’s charming and attractive and he knows it. Together they have excellent banter and chemistry for days. I loved all of the fake titles they gave each other and the button pushing was near perfection.
Plot wise it was fun. The fake fiancée trope is one of my favorites, but this one went a bit further. I loved the plot thread of the missing man. It helped to solidify their relationship while they got to know each other. There’s a bit of satisfaction in how it ultimately got resolved and it seemed fitting that it played out the way it did.
Overall, it was a fast and fun read. I would have liked more from the epilogue {especially with a daughter in the mix—that entire part seemed neglected}. I just really loved these two characters and wanted more in general.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved Della and Griffith. She’s sassy and stands up for herself. He’s charming and attractive and he knows it. Together they have excellent banter and chemistry for days. I loved all of the fake titles they gave each other and the button pushing was near perfection.
Plot wise it was fun. The fake fiancée trope is one of my favorites, but this one went a bit further. I loved the plot thread of the missing man. It helped to solidify their relationship while they got to know each other. There’s a bit of satisfaction in how it ultimately got resolved and it seemed fitting that it played out the way it did.
Overall, it was a fast and fun read. I would have liked more from the epilogue {especially with a daughter in the mix—that entire part seemed neglected}. I just really loved these two characters and wanted more in general.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
February 19, 2021
Tbh this one was a skim. After suffering the past three book and only really liking one, I don't care for this series anymore and quite frankly, maybe Megan at all??? Which is a huge disappointment because I own a lot of her books and hoped she would be better.
March 27, 2019
This is not an author I read very often but I think I will go back and read the other books in this series now. I really enjoyed Griffith and Della’s story. Griffith Davies is a ship captain who comes home to find out he is heir to a Dukedom, which is not happy about. Lady Della is the disgraced daughter of a duke who had a child out of wedlock. Together they were perfect. This book had plot holes and at times sounded too modern/American but I liked it anyway. It was a light, fun read. I loved, loved, loved the fact that the heroine was not only not a virgin but someone who enjoyed sex and was willing to take what she wanted. I loved that it was her suggesting an affair. You don’t see that enough in historical romance.
April 22, 2019
First of all, I love Megan Frampton’s writing style and have reread more than one of her books. That being said, I just did not enjoy this one.
This title started out great and had my attention. I even loved the hero, Griffith, but it soon became apparent that Della was awful and there’s nothing worse than a good hero ending up with a terrible heroine.
I wrote in my notes as I was reading that Della is a “selfish cow” after her daughter still hadn’t made an appearance in the book and Della’s main concern seemed to be the fact that she was no longer invited or accepted to parties. Oh, and I can’t forget that she wants to screw Griffith basically from the beginning of the book. Forgive me for thinking a heroine who admits her life was somewhat ruined by getting pregnant out of wedlock once would be so willing to risk it again (and I know they had some forms of birth control back then).
All of that was incredibly disappointing because I really did love Griffith. I found him hilarious and couldn’t wait for his POV. He is honestly the main thing that kept me from all out hating this title.
I feel like this title was the weakest of the series but I am looking forward to the novella about Pearl and will continue to read Ms. Frampton’s titles.
*I received an eARC from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This title started out great and had my attention. I even loved the hero, Griffith, but it soon became apparent that Della was awful and there’s nothing worse than a good hero ending up with a terrible heroine.
I wrote in my notes as I was reading that Della is a “selfish cow” after her daughter still hadn’t made an appearance in the book and Della’s main concern seemed to be the fact that she was no longer invited or accepted to parties. Oh, and I can’t forget that she wants to screw Griffith basically from the beginning of the book. Forgive me for thinking a heroine who admits her life was somewhat ruined by getting pregnant out of wedlock once would be so willing to risk it again (and I know they had some forms of birth control back then).
All of that was incredibly disappointing because I really did love Griffith. I found him hilarious and couldn’t wait for his POV. He is honestly the main thing that kept me from all out hating this title.
I feel like this title was the weakest of the series but I am looking forward to the novella about Pearl and will continue to read Ms. Frampton’s titles.
*I received an eARC from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2021
Maybe 3.5 stars but two lousy chapters near the end really killed it for me.
After running away from the meaningless frivolity of his family's aristocratic existence 12 years previously, Captain Griffith Davies, also Viscount Stanbury, must rejoin society and leave the navy's service. His cousin Frederick, now the Duke of Northam, is dying and Griffith is the only heir. Though the idea of settling down on land and assuming aristocratic responsibility is repugnant to him, he knows he owes his cousin after all the time he's missed. He is, however, determined to avoid the matchmaking mamas of the ton and how better to keep them at bay than a pretend betrothal to one of society's most notorious outcasts. He just can't act on his attraction to the fiery woman. He saw how his parents' marriage deteriorated and doesn't wish to add a wife to his growing list of new responsibilities.
Lady Della Howlett ruined her reputation years ago when she ran off with a man she thought she loved: until he stole her jewels and money and left Della and their daughter, Nora, penniless. A fake and soon to be dissolved engagement can hardly worsen her reputation now. Griffith is also the best chance she and her friend Sarah have of learning what became of Sarah's husband, a navy sailor formerly under Captain Davies' command. She just has to fight her instant attraction to him and remember how irritating he is. She won't repeat her past mistakes and she'll certainly never marry and allow a man to have power over her, much less give one her trust.
When the physical attraction between them becomes to tangible, Della suggests they add an affair to their bargain and the two step in dangerous territory. Neither especially wants to be tied down in marriage, but when neither wants to give the other up either, there could be heartbreak in store for them both anyway.
Griffith genuinely wants to help people and found himself in hot water with Her Majesty's Navy for his efforts and found his imminent position as duke's heir more bearable because of the ability it would afford him to help others. Despite his unapologetic arrogance and reluctant approach to responsibility, this made him rather likable.
*May devolve into some ranting here: I wasn't thrilled with Della or her attitude when I met her in the previous book in this series. She's just so very demanding, but I was hoping to like her more after getting more of her backstory in this one. I totally understand her distrust of men and even her bitterness, but much of her man-hating bravado just came off as selfish and unnecessary, especially when she got to know Griffith more. Her constant need to assert herself came off more haughty than vulnerable. All of her fiery independence and not wanting Griffith to do anything for her, along with her near constant tendency to fly into fits of righteous indignation and temper just got redundant and annoying, especially when it was clear she wasn't actually showing any of the growth and maturity her character had supposedly developed. It just made me unsympathetic to her after awhile, especially when she kept running away and refusing to hear Griffith out or try to understand, even though supposedly she's grown up and doesn't run from problems anymore.
The last few chapters just devolved into feminist propaganda, and don't get me wrong I'm all for equality, but I can't get on board with straight up man-hating and judgmental disrespect, which is Della's behavior in a nutshell for most of the book. I'm just consistently annoyed by the so-called fiery and independent heroine who is just mistrustful because of past hurts but really is just judgmental of others and her lack of communication with the hero is the driving force for much of the conflicts in the plot. It just winds up being a weak story for me and feeling rather cheap. Also, I would've liked to see at least some interaction between Griffith and Della's daughter, Nora, although we didn't really see Della interact with her much either.
I can definitely say at least that these two characters were well suited to each other with their mutual self-absorption and over-the-top confidence/arrogance. We also do get a satisfactory happy ending and some enjoyable secondary characters, especially Frederick, but I would've liked to see more resolution of the conflict between Della and her parents.
Overall, once again some mixed feelings about this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
After running away from the meaningless frivolity of his family's aristocratic existence 12 years previously, Captain Griffith Davies, also Viscount Stanbury, must rejoin society and leave the navy's service. His cousin Frederick, now the Duke of Northam, is dying and Griffith is the only heir. Though the idea of settling down on land and assuming aristocratic responsibility is repugnant to him, he knows he owes his cousin after all the time he's missed. He is, however, determined to avoid the matchmaking mamas of the ton and how better to keep them at bay than a pretend betrothal to one of society's most notorious outcasts. He just can't act on his attraction to the fiery woman. He saw how his parents' marriage deteriorated and doesn't wish to add a wife to his growing list of new responsibilities.
Lady Della Howlett ruined her reputation years ago when she ran off with a man she thought she loved: until he stole her jewels and money and left Della and their daughter, Nora, penniless. A fake and soon to be dissolved engagement can hardly worsen her reputation now. Griffith is also the best chance she and her friend Sarah have of learning what became of Sarah's husband, a navy sailor formerly under Captain Davies' command. She just has to fight her instant attraction to him and remember how irritating he is. She won't repeat her past mistakes and she'll certainly never marry and allow a man to have power over her, much less give one her trust.
When the physical attraction between them becomes to tangible, Della suggests they add an affair to their bargain and the two step in dangerous territory. Neither especially wants to be tied down in marriage, but when neither wants to give the other up either, there could be heartbreak in store for them both anyway.
Griffith genuinely wants to help people and found himself in hot water with Her Majesty's Navy for his efforts and found his imminent position as duke's heir more bearable because of the ability it would afford him to help others. Despite his unapologetic arrogance and reluctant approach to responsibility, this made him rather likable.
*May devolve into some ranting here: I wasn't thrilled with Della or her attitude when I met her in the previous book in this series. She's just so very demanding, but I was hoping to like her more after getting more of her backstory in this one. I totally understand her distrust of men and even her bitterness, but much of her man-hating bravado just came off as selfish and unnecessary, especially when she got to know Griffith more. Her constant need to assert herself came off more haughty than vulnerable. All of her fiery independence and not wanting Griffith to do anything for her, along with her near constant tendency to fly into fits of righteous indignation and temper just got redundant and annoying, especially when it was clear she wasn't actually showing any of the growth and maturity her character had supposedly developed. It just made me unsympathetic to her after awhile, especially when she kept running away and refusing to hear Griffith out or try to understand, even though supposedly she's grown up and doesn't run from problems anymore.
The last few chapters just devolved into feminist propaganda, and don't get me wrong I'm all for equality, but I can't get on board with straight up man-hating and judgmental disrespect, which is Della's behavior in a nutshell for most of the book. I'm just consistently annoyed by the so-called fiery and independent heroine who is just mistrustful because of past hurts but really is just judgmental of others and her lack of communication with the hero is the driving force for much of the conflicts in the plot. It just winds up being a weak story for me and feeling rather cheap. Also, I would've liked to see at least some interaction between Griffith and Della's daughter, Nora, although we didn't really see Della interact with her much either.
I can definitely say at least that these two characters were well suited to each other with their mutual self-absorption and over-the-top confidence/arrogance. We also do get a satisfactory happy ending and some enjoyable secondary characters, especially Frederick, but I would've liked to see more resolution of the conflict between Della and her parents.
Overall, once again some mixed feelings about this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
April 19, 2019
Lady Della Howlett is the disgraced eldest daughter of the Duke of Marymount, she ran off with her dance master and had a child. When her lover ran off, she was taken in by Sarah Wattings and she planned to never return to her family - but her sisters had other ideas and convinced her to return to London. She is not welcomed by her parents, but her sisters and their husbands helped her and Sarah buy a house and now she wants nothing more than to reunite Sarah with her husband Henry. When she learns that the captain of the last ship Henry was on is in town, she wastes no time finding him.
Griffin Davies, Viscount Stanbury is in a dockside pub when Della stalks in wielding a hatpin and demanding answers - when he saves her from an ugly confrontation, she learns he is the man she is looking for - but before she can get answers - he is arrested and taken away. Griffin is in a bit a trouble over his actions on his last voyage - but when his old friend Robson shows up and gets him out, he learns that his life is about to change - he walked away from his life of privilege years ago and hasn't been back since - but much has changed and he learns that he is the heir presumptive to the Duke of Northam and that the duke, his cousin Fredrick is ill and expects Griffin to take up the duties of the dukedom immediately - it is overwhelming and when Della shows up at the Duke's home the next day - Griffin strikes a bargain with her.
Griffin will help her find Henry, but he wants her to pretend to be his betrothed to keep the marriage-mined Mamas and title hungry debutantes away from him - she tells him that she is not welcomed in society, but that just makes him want her more. They strike an agreement and Della is a little surprised to find herself attracted to the arrogant man - she thought she was done with men, but since you can't be ruined twice, she suggests they add an affair to their bargain and so it begins...
I thought this was a 5 star read right up until the last 3 chapters, then I wanted to smack Della and tell Griffin to grow a set - I was enjoying the story immensely, it was well written, flowed nicely, it was amusing and there was great chemistry between them and then it devolved into some weird Dom/Sub thing. Don't get me wrong, I like strong, resilient, independent heroines - but Della came off as a little hypocritical - she can't have anyone help her - but she can help others? Combine that with the fact Griffin never met her daughter, the incorrect formal address and the unresolved legal problem Griffin had at the beginning and the rating for this book dropped. I also have to wonder - where did Griffin get his title? His father was the Duke's brother - so his title would be his honorific of Lord Firstname and Griffin would just be plain Mr. Davies - so where did the title of Viscount come from?? Even as the heir presumptive, he wouldn't have a courtesy title - it is little things like this that just niggle at my brain and demand answers - did he have the title bestowed by the Queen for something? No idea and I guess I'll never know - SIGH. This is the fourth book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone and if you have been following the series - you will definitely want to read this one!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an Uncorrected eARC that was provided to me by Edelweiss and the publisher.*
Griffin Davies, Viscount Stanbury is in a dockside pub when Della stalks in wielding a hatpin and demanding answers - when he saves her from an ugly confrontation, she learns he is the man she is looking for - but before she can get answers - he is arrested and taken away. Griffin is in a bit a trouble over his actions on his last voyage - but when his old friend Robson shows up and gets him out, he learns that his life is about to change - he walked away from his life of privilege years ago and hasn't been back since - but much has changed and he learns that he is the heir presumptive to the Duke of Northam and that the duke, his cousin Fredrick is ill and expects Griffin to take up the duties of the dukedom immediately - it is overwhelming and when Della shows up at the Duke's home the next day - Griffin strikes a bargain with her.
Griffin will help her find Henry, but he wants her to pretend to be his betrothed to keep the marriage-mined Mamas and title hungry debutantes away from him - she tells him that she is not welcomed in society, but that just makes him want her more. They strike an agreement and Della is a little surprised to find herself attracted to the arrogant man - she thought she was done with men, but since you can't be ruined twice, she suggests they add an affair to their bargain and so it begins...
I thought this was a 5 star read right up until the last 3 chapters, then I wanted to smack Della and tell Griffin to grow a set - I was enjoying the story immensely, it was well written, flowed nicely, it was amusing and there was great chemistry between them and then it devolved into some weird Dom/Sub thing. Don't get me wrong, I like strong, resilient, independent heroines - but Della came off as a little hypocritical - she can't have anyone help her - but she can help others? Combine that with the fact Griffin never met her daughter, the incorrect formal address and the unresolved legal problem Griffin had at the beginning and the rating for this book dropped. I also have to wonder - where did Griffin get his title? His father was the Duke's brother - so his title would be his honorific of Lord Firstname and Griffin would just be plain Mr. Davies - so where did the title of Viscount come from?? Even as the heir presumptive, he wouldn't have a courtesy title - it is little things like this that just niggle at my brain and demand answers - did he have the title bestowed by the Queen for something? No idea and I guess I'll never know - SIGH. This is the fourth book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone and if you have been following the series - you will definitely want to read this one!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an Uncorrected eARC that was provided to me by Edelweiss and the publisher.*
April 1, 2019
Received an ARC via Edelweiss
What I liked about the characters is that both Griffith and Della are strong personalities, they like to tease and spar verbally, and they both have to defend/help the abused and downtrodden. Neither of them want to be popular in the ton, though Della would like not to be hated. They both had bad formative years as well. The thing that I didn’t like was that it was all about what she needed as a person and not anything that Griffith needed. At that time women normally got the crappy end of the stick so I understand why she has been tough about it, but if you are in a good relationship then both people need to have their needs met.
What I liked about the characters is that both Griffith and Della are strong personalities, they like to tease and spar verbally, and they both have to defend/help the abused and downtrodden. Neither of them want to be popular in the ton, though Della would like not to be hated. They both had bad formative years as well. The thing that I didn’t like was that it was all about what she needed as a person and not anything that Griffith needed. At that time women normally got the crappy end of the stick so I understand why she has been tough about it, but if you are in a good relationship then both people need to have their needs met.
May 14, 2019
This...this I did not like.
I had never read any Megan Frampton before this, so didn't know what to expect. Unfortunately there was really nothing I enjoyed about this title. The writing quality was fine, but the characters and story get two big thumbs down.
I won't get to deep into the plot, but heroine and hero have a fake engagement that presumably benefits them both. Heroine agrees to help integrate hero back into fine society (now that he's a reluctant Duke-in-training) and hero in exchange will help heroine track down her friend's missing husband. But how they manage to accomplish anything is a mystery, as 99% of their thoughts and effort are devoted to getting each other in to bed.
For me the characters were unlikeable and inconsistent. Della is demanding, selfish, and self absorbed, but she’s written as some delightfully outspoken, feminist white savior. Don’t even get me started on how the black characters are handled in this book. She also has a daughter she rarely sees, and the girl really only exists as a mirror for Della to see herself in. Also, her daughter never meets Griffith, even though he comes to her house several times. It was all just..weird and unrealistic. And Griffith never won me over either. Insufferably arrogant, but constantly lamenting his “compulsion to help people”.
Suffice to say, I probably won’t be trying this author again.
*I received an advanced copy of this title from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
I had never read any Megan Frampton before this, so didn't know what to expect. Unfortunately there was really nothing I enjoyed about this title. The writing quality was fine, but the characters and story get two big thumbs down.
I won't get to deep into the plot, but heroine and hero have a fake engagement that presumably benefits them both. Heroine agrees to help integrate hero back into fine society (now that he's a reluctant Duke-in-training) and hero in exchange will help heroine track down her friend's missing husband. But how they manage to accomplish anything is a mystery, as 99% of their thoughts and effort are devoted to getting each other in to bed.
For me the characters were unlikeable and inconsistent. Della is demanding, selfish, and self absorbed, but she’s written as some delightfully outspoken, feminist white savior. Don’t even get me started on how the black characters are handled in this book. She also has a daughter she rarely sees, and the girl really only exists as a mirror for Della to see herself in. Also, her daughter never meets Griffith, even though he comes to her house several times. It was all just..weird and unrealistic. And Griffith never won me over either. Insufferably arrogant, but constantly lamenting his “compulsion to help people”.
Suffice to say, I probably won’t be trying this author again.
*I received an advanced copy of this title from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2018
I don’t recall reading any books by this author previously, but I recognized the name from shelving books. I gave it a read, and about 70% of the way (thank you Kindle app for tracking that), I almost jumped ship and hit exit.
Slightly before that, it seemed the language took a turn to more of a modern setting, and honestly I had a hard time imagining it in historical context in comparison to other books I have enjoyed before. One thought in my mind as they discarded clothing... not the floor, what if it hits the fire?!?! Then...Awe, man it is going WRINKLE! Totally killed the mood, and I can’t say why this detail bothered me so much, but it was the overtly rebellious attitude in the text. I also, was bothered by the lack of additional interaction with her daughter other than side notes in blips of the days as the book progressed, and that I can’t remember reading that the man Della comes to love (and calls all sorts of pet names) ever meets Nora, but his cousin does. So many weird vibes, and to me inconceivable progressions to the story.
I also totally read this out of series order... I finished it, hence the 3 vs 2 stars, but I will not intentionally pick up the rest of the series. The writing wasn’t a match to my reading preferences. Sorry, so harsh, it just is not my cup of tea (okay, if you read this book...sorry, once again for the punny review. Tea!).
Slightly before that, it seemed the language took a turn to more of a modern setting, and honestly I had a hard time imagining it in historical context in comparison to other books I have enjoyed before. One thought in my mind as they discarded clothing... not the floor, what if it hits the fire?!?! Then...Awe, man it is going WRINKLE! Totally killed the mood, and I can’t say why this detail bothered me so much, but it was the overtly rebellious attitude in the text. I also, was bothered by the lack of additional interaction with her daughter other than side notes in blips of the days as the book progressed, and that I can’t remember reading that the man Della comes to love (and calls all sorts of pet names) ever meets Nora, but his cousin does. So many weird vibes, and to me inconceivable progressions to the story.
I also totally read this out of series order... I finished it, hence the 3 vs 2 stars, but I will not intentionally pick up the rest of the series. The writing wasn’t a match to my reading preferences. Sorry, so harsh, it just is not my cup of tea (okay, if you read this book...sorry, once again for the punny review. Tea!).
April 25, 2019
After twelve years in Her Majesty’s Navy, Griffith Davies must leave his sea-going life of outrageous freedom behind, forced to rejoin London society as the heir to the Duke of Northam, though he is now shackled to the land, he has no desire to wed some innocently dull young thing. Lady Della Howlett’s reputation was tattered years ago, so entering into a false engagement with Griffith is hardly going to make matters worse. Soon, Griffith and Della are arousing more than scandal, they’re courting heartbreak. And more than their reputations could still be at risk.
I was so looking forward to reading this book, the blurb had me wanting a quiet afternoon to lose myself in it but I was left wanting more. I like the trope of a false relationship, I really liked Griffith BUT I disliked Della & no matter how much I tried & believe me I did try to like her she left me cold. I enjoyed the humour & the verbal sparring but there my enjoyment stopped
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I was so looking forward to reading this book, the blurb had me wanting a quiet afternoon to lose myself in it but I was left wanting more. I like the trope of a false relationship, I really liked Griffith BUT I disliked Della & no matter how much I tried & believe me I did try to like her she left me cold. I enjoyed the humour & the verbal sparring but there my enjoyment stopped
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 28, 2019
This was wildly disappointing. I was excited by the premise - fake relationship, "ruined" woman with black sheep sea captain/Duke's heir. But nope, there was just about nothing about this book that worked for me. Della is fiercely independent. But in a way where she sort of tramples everyone else's feelings. And she has zero trust for anyone and zero growth on that front. I get that a woman should not have to change who she is for her partner, I really do. But flying into a rage continuously and not bothering to see anyone's motives or giving them any benefit of the doubt just isn't productive in relationships.
I found the cutesy nicknames irritating, they were used so frequently. And I am absolutely no stickler for historical accuracy, most of the time I don't even NOTICE things are wrong historically. But every once in awhile, the tone of a book or bits in it just take me out of the experience. When he called her Lady Fuckable, I just sort of shut down.
One of the pluses of a fake relationship is usually there's some degree of slow burn or figuring out that you want it to be real and how do you negotiate during the fake into real. But this book bypassed this entirely. Basically the first time they go out she's like, nah, let's just have an affair. There is zero tension or plot in the book at any point related to how they go from fake engagement to love.
Della has a daughter. A daughter that she gave up her whole life in society for. And she's basically a prop and one of the most insignificant characters in the whole book. She's barely mentioned, I don't know if she ever even meets the hero and she isn't even mentioned in their wedding scene/epilogue/happily ever after. Usually one of the good parts of a romance with a single parent is watching their new partner learn to be a part of their family.
Della also seems to have no money woes. She's cut off from her parents (the Duke and Duchess). She lives in an unfashionable part of town. Her daughter's father stole all her jewels. So where on earth does her money COME FROM? She has beautiful new gowns - nothing out of fashion or worn. She and Sarah have enough money to just do charitable work and keep a staff at home and take in as many sad lost people as they want. She can pay off anyone IN CASH. HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?? It isn't even genteel poverty, it's straight up wealth and there's no source of it.
Basically I was irritated or frustrated through most of this. I usually like Frampton but this was a huge disappointment.
I found the cutesy nicknames irritating, they were used so frequently. And I am absolutely no stickler for historical accuracy, most of the time I don't even NOTICE things are wrong historically. But every once in awhile, the tone of a book or bits in it just take me out of the experience. When he called her Lady Fuckable, I just sort of shut down.
One of the pluses of a fake relationship is usually there's some degree of slow burn or figuring out that you want it to be real and how do you negotiate during the fake into real. But this book bypassed this entirely. Basically the first time they go out she's like, nah, let's just have an affair. There is zero tension or plot in the book at any point related to how they go from fake engagement to love.
Della has a daughter. A daughter that she gave up her whole life in society for. And she's basically a prop and one of the most insignificant characters in the whole book. She's barely mentioned, I don't know if she ever even meets the hero and she isn't even mentioned in their wedding scene/epilogue/happily ever after. Usually one of the good parts of a romance with a single parent is watching their new partner learn to be a part of their family.
Della also seems to have no money woes. She's cut off from her parents (the Duke and Duchess). She lives in an unfashionable part of town. Her daughter's father stole all her jewels. So where on earth does her money COME FROM? She has beautiful new gowns - nothing out of fashion or worn. She and Sarah have enough money to just do charitable work and keep a staff at home and take in as many sad lost people as they want. She can pay off anyone IN CASH. HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?? It isn't even genteel poverty, it's straight up wealth and there's no source of it.
Basically I was irritated or frustrated through most of this. I usually like Frampton but this was a huge disappointment.
May 22, 2019
The eldest daughter finally meets her match.
IF you have been following Megan Frampton's Duke's Daughters series, then you would have been familiar with Never a Bride's Della Howlett, the disgraced eldest daughter who's been the silently talked about in all the previous books. Never a Bride, however, can be read as a standalone like the previous books and what a charming, sexy and wonderfully humorous story does it tell.
The male protagonist here is Griffith Davies, recent captain of a naval ship, who unfortunately was about to be arrested when he finds out he is now the sole living heir of his cousin, the Duke of Northram. Which means most of his family have died and his favorite cousin about to follow them soon. Still, this was also the moment he meets Della, which of course makes him quite curious and slightly in lust to find out who she is. When they do meet again, it seems as if fate has dealt them a great hand. She needs his help to locate a dear friend's husband and he needs her to keep the society wolves at bay. It could have been a win-win situation, until the lust and then the emotions got in the way!
I do love the way Della and Griffin interacted, the almost, dominant submissive role play was way sexy it burned the pages. But most of all, it was the way they kind of fumbled around trying to navigate a relationship. Their bantering was sexy, funny and charming. Never a Bride will definitely make you laugh and giggle and say aww to one fantastic romance.
Blog link: https://delugedwithbooks-caffeineaddi...
*ARC provided thru edelweiss*
IF you have been following Megan Frampton's Duke's Daughters series, then you would have been familiar with Never a Bride's Della Howlett, the disgraced eldest daughter who's been the silently talked about in all the previous books. Never a Bride, however, can be read as a standalone like the previous books and what a charming, sexy and wonderfully humorous story does it tell.
The male protagonist here is Griffith Davies, recent captain of a naval ship, who unfortunately was about to be arrested when he finds out he is now the sole living heir of his cousin, the Duke of Northram. Which means most of his family have died and his favorite cousin about to follow them soon. Still, this was also the moment he meets Della, which of course makes him quite curious and slightly in lust to find out who she is. When they do meet again, it seems as if fate has dealt them a great hand. She needs his help to locate a dear friend's husband and he needs her to keep the society wolves at bay. It could have been a win-win situation, until the lust and then the emotions got in the way!
I do love the way Della and Griffin interacted, the almost, dominant submissive role play was way sexy it burned the pages. But most of all, it was the way they kind of fumbled around trying to navigate a relationship. Their bantering was sexy, funny and charming. Never a Bride will definitely make you laugh and giggle and say aww to one fantastic romance.
Blog link: https://delugedwithbooks-caffeineaddi...
*ARC provided thru edelweiss*
September 29, 2019
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and in return promised an honest review.
Griffith Davies has spent 12 years in Her Majesty's Navy and now must leave his sea-life behind. He is captain of his own ship and that allows him his freedom from his "real duties". Griff is forced to rejoin London society as the heir to the Duke of Northam. Even though he is land bound, he has no interest to be feigned over by innocent young girls or to marry one. So, when he meets a woman in a pub looking for him, a deal is struck to keep the matchmaking mama's away.
Lady Della Howlett's reputation was destroyed years ago when she decided to elope with her dance instructor because she was pregnant. So, agreeing to a false engagement with Griffith is her way of thumbing her nose at society. Let them talk... Besides this pact can guarantee her some pleasure since Griff brings out her desires. The passion between them makes it hard for her to not develop feelings of more than they agreed to.
Griffith and Della are surprised by their feelings and no longer care about scandal. Could they be headed for heartbreak? Do they still care about reputations being at risk?
Griffith Davies has spent 12 years in Her Majesty's Navy and now must leave his sea-life behind. He is captain of his own ship and that allows him his freedom from his "real duties". Griff is forced to rejoin London society as the heir to the Duke of Northam. Even though he is land bound, he has no interest to be feigned over by innocent young girls or to marry one. So, when he meets a woman in a pub looking for him, a deal is struck to keep the matchmaking mama's away.
Lady Della Howlett's reputation was destroyed years ago when she decided to elope with her dance instructor because she was pregnant. So, agreeing to a false engagement with Griffith is her way of thumbing her nose at society. Let them talk... Besides this pact can guarantee her some pleasure since Griff brings out her desires. The passion between them makes it hard for her to not develop feelings of more than they agreed to.
Griffith and Della are surprised by their feelings and no longer care about scandal. Could they be headed for heartbreak? Do they still care about reputations being at risk?
June 13, 2019
Great writing ruined by contemporary romance masquerading as historical. The heroine fought so hard to be independent that she was unlikable. The hero procrastinated so much I didn't enjoy what was happening and just wanted him to move it. Super strong sexuality that was over the top.
People that like feminist historical women may enjoy this.
People that like feminist historical women may enjoy this.
December 6, 2022
Loved this series and I think this was my favorite. I had read Megan Frampton back in 2016 and marked on my notes I didn't really like the books and didn't pick up another until last week. Not sure what drew me in this time but I loved these books. I loved the stories, the characters, the sex :)
Really liked Della's fire and she found the perfect partner with Griffith.
Really liked Della's fire and she found the perfect partner with Griffith.
May 13, 2019
This is sex positive, empowering in its progressiveness, original and lovely instalment in a staller HR series. Loved it!
May 4, 2019
Never a Bride by Megan Frampton is book Four in A Duke's Daughters Series. This is the story of Griffith Davies and Lady Della Howlett. I have read the previous books, but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Della was the daughter of the Duke of Marymount, but thinking herself in love with Mr. Baxter her dance instructor and wanting to get away from a cold upbringing ran away with him. Never marrying him even when she had their child Nora. Baxter ended up running off with her jewlery leaving her and her daughter to fend for themselves. Of course she was disowned by her father and who knows where she would end up if not for Sarah Wattings. Now in the present day she is a notorious scandal. Griffith took off at a early age for the sea and after about 12 years at sea and as a part of Her Majesty's Navy Griffith is told that he has to settle to land as the heir of a Duke of Northam. When pressured to to marry a false engagement between Della and Griffith is set in motion. Both interested in the other thinking that they can have fun while causing such upset to society but what they didn't count on was how much their feelings would changed what they both wanted.
Della was the daughter of the Duke of Marymount, but thinking herself in love with Mr. Baxter her dance instructor and wanting to get away from a cold upbringing ran away with him. Never marrying him even when she had their child Nora. Baxter ended up running off with her jewlery leaving her and her daughter to fend for themselves. Of course she was disowned by her father and who knows where she would end up if not for Sarah Wattings. Now in the present day she is a notorious scandal. Griffith took off at a early age for the sea and after about 12 years at sea and as a part of Her Majesty's Navy Griffith is told that he has to settle to land as the heir of a Duke of Northam. When pressured to to marry a false engagement between Della and Griffith is set in motion. Both interested in the other thinking that they can have fun while causing such upset to society but what they didn't count on was how much their feelings would changed what they both wanted.
March 6, 2019
I received an ARC of this book to read through Edelweiss+ in exchange for a fair review. Never A Bride by Megan Frampton is the 4th book in her delightful Duke’s Daughters series. It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend the series. Captain Griffin Davies, Viscount Stanbury heir to the Duke of Northam meets Lady Della Howlett when she searches him out as she is helping her best friend locate her missing husband and he had been a seaman on one of Griffins ships. Griffin agrees to help her out locating the missing man if she will help him navigate the ton by pretending to be his betrothed. His cousin the Duke is quite ill and Griffin will need to learn how to be a Duke. Lady Della Howlett is a scandal, she ran off with her dancing master and had a daughter and has been disowned by her ducal parents. I loved the banter between these two. Going along with them on their journey to HEA was a delight. It was so nice to read a light hearted book for a change. Quite steamy. Publishing Date April 30, 2019
#AvonBooks #MeganFrampton #Edelweissplus #NeverABride
#AvonBooks #MeganFrampton #Edelweissplus #NeverABride
May 16, 2019
Wow... Just Wow! Truly one of the best books I've read this year thus far! This is so well deserving of a High 5 Stars! I absolutely fell in love with Griffith Davies. He has spent the majority of his life serving Her Majesties Navy and coasting on the open waters... the last thing he wants is to be a duke, but he takes on the title only out of honor and respect to his dying cousin and friend, the current duke. Meanwhile, a beautiful lady comes to him looking for her friend's husband once worked on Griffiths ship. The offer up a deal, she will pretend to be his betrothed while he helps her find her friend's husband. Will this make-believe engagement turn into a real engagement and eventual marriage?
Absolutely wonderful book, I really loved it! If you want a deep romance story with a lot of passion, and spirited young, adventurous couple, then this is the book for you! Frampton truly is a master storyteller!
Absolutely wonderful book, I really loved it! If you want a deep romance story with a lot of passion, and spirited young, adventurous couple, then this is the book for you! Frampton truly is a master storyteller!
May 20, 2020
I have enjoyed this series but I think this be one of the best. It is not necessary to have read all the books or in order to enjoy this book. Della is a disgraced daughter of a Duke, one of five. She has returned to London with her daughter and her friend and her daughter. Della needs Griffin's help and Griffin needs her resulting in a bargain. Griffin has just returned from sea and finds out the her is heir to a dukedom and must reenter society. I loved how independent della was and I really enjoyed her relationship with Griffin. Griffin was a fun character.
May 29, 2022
Paperback
Della and Griffen
Everyone is a wise a$$ in this book and I ❤ it!
Della and Griffen are both very Independent and a lot alike. Della has to teach Griffen that she is responsible for herself.
I really enjoyed these characters and their nuanced relationship.
Someone mentioned they skimmed this book them rated it low. I don't think you could get the power dynamic between the two, nor understand Della's responsibility and accountability to herself by skimming. Della is no man's lap pet.
Della and Griffen
Everyone is a wise a$$ in this book and I ❤ it!
Della and Griffen are both very Independent and a lot alike. Della has to teach Griffen that she is responsible for herself.
I really enjoyed these characters and their nuanced relationship.
Someone mentioned they skimmed this book them rated it low. I don't think you could get the power dynamic between the two, nor understand Della's responsibility and accountability to herself by skimming. Della is no man's lap pet.
February 15, 2024
Easy reading
August 15, 2019
2.5
This was my second read after my slump, and it didn’t go as great. I flew through the book, which is why it’s rated as high as it is (originally 3 stars,) but it was problematic for me. I found that Frampton seemed to be trying so hard to make this a feminist read in a period book, and it was not working for me.
I was not thrilled with the main character, Della. Her attitude was disgusting in my opinion. I found her very demanding. I understand why she is the way she is, once you get her backstory obviously, but her distrust of men in general is portrayed in a rather selfish and ignorant manner. Especially once she met the male lead, Griffith. She constantly tried to assert herself, which I found kind of snobbish. I’m all here for an independent woman, but the way she held her independence and didn’t want Griffith to literally do any kindness for her, as well as her constant righteous temper grew very annoying and eye rolling for me. There was no character development for her, or even maturity at that. I just couldn’t sympathize with her situation, even after some light was shed upon it. She never would hear Griffith out, just run away. Very mature and adult-like.
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This was my second read after my slump, and it didn’t go as great. I flew through the book, which is why it’s rated as high as it is (originally 3 stars,) but it was problematic for me. I found that Frampton seemed to be trying so hard to make this a feminist read in a period book, and it was not working for me.
I was not thrilled with the main character, Della. Her attitude was disgusting in my opinion. I found her very demanding. I understand why she is the way she is, once you get her backstory obviously, but her distrust of men in general is portrayed in a rather selfish and ignorant manner. Especially once she met the male lead, Griffith. She constantly tried to assert herself, which I found kind of snobbish. I’m all here for an independent woman, but the way she held her independence and didn’t want Griffith to literally do any kindness for her, as well as her constant righteous temper grew very annoying and eye rolling for me. There was no character development for her, or even maturity at that. I just couldn’t sympathize with her situation, even after some light was shed upon it. She never would hear Griffith out, just run away. Very mature and adult-like.
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June 2, 2019
After eloping with the dance instructor, Lady Della Howlett’s reputation is ruined. She and her friend Sarah Watting live together with their children while Sarah waits for her husband to return from the navy. Della finds Captain Griffith Davies and enlists his help to search for Watting who had been on Davies’ ship. In return for his help, she agrees to act as his betrothed to ward off young women who learn he is the heir to the Duke of Northam. They work together and fall in love. She was sworn to never marry and he wants to return to the sea. At least he did until he met and fell in love with her. He has to change her mind about marriage.
This book was not as good as the other ones in the series. Della was too outspoken and Griffith gave in to her too much.
This book was not as good as the other ones in the series. Della was too outspoken and Griffith gave in to her too much.
May 16, 2019
Della Howlett is not interested in going about in society. She destroyed all of her chances when she ran away with her dance tutor and then became pregnant by him. But Griffith Davies is trying to drag her back in. He needs a fake fiancee to keep away the circling mamas and she needs his help finding her friend's husband, last seen on one of Griffith's ships.
This is an okay story. I wish more had been done with the storyline about Griffith freeing people from a slave ship and there was a lot more sex than romance but overall a very readable book.
This is an okay story. I wish more had been done with the storyline about Griffith freeing people from a slave ship and there was a lot more sex than romance but overall a very readable book.
January 15, 2020
Reading this I thought the author did not want to write a historical, but was contractually obligated to do so, hence this book. The heroine is to strong, she is annoying. She is not intelligent, she is bossy. She has zero redeemable qualities that make a good heroine and cannot carry the book. The hero is not much better but not the disaster she is. The only reason this book got 2 starts is that the sex scenes were well written and interesting...the rest-don't care about them at all at all.
April 28, 2019
It starts out really strong and somewhere in the middle it just falls apart. It's too bad because I like the protagonists but they seemed more like puppets than real people. It was like the book was a play they had been cast in.
The first half of the book is great but I can't rec the second half of the book. I love this author's books and was really hoping for more.
The first half of the book is great but I can't rec the second half of the book. I love this author's books and was really hoping for more.
February 25, 2020
Two nonconformists collide for fun and trouble and mayhem as they fall in love. Della and Griff's irreverent camaraderie create a delightful sense of underlying humor as serious themes about the consequences of rebellion are explored.
September 11, 2024
Spoilers ahead
What a disappointment. In book 3 we get the very intelligent, stubborn and opinionated Ida who is so likable. Here, we get Della, the sister who ran away and Ida brought back. I wish they would have left her where she was. Della is self-centered, demanding and has to control everything and everyone around her at all times.
“She hoped he had learned his lesson and wouldn’t attempt to assert his dominance over her again- if she wanted his arm, she’d take it. If she wanted anything else of his, she’d take that too.”
Why does she feel it’s okay for her to do what she wants but doesn’t respect others enough to let them have any say in their own lives? She was constantly telling Griffith what to do and how to do it. She talks to herself all the time about how she wouldn’t change anything because it brought her Nora, her beloved daughter. But we see very few scenes in which she spends any quality time with her daughter at all and she doesn’t bother to introduce her daughter to the man she is supposed to be falling in love with.
Griffith tries to defend her honor at a ball, after all he is supposed to be betrothed to her. She gets mad at him and tells him he doesn’t have the right. But if he didn’t act like a gentleman and stand up for the woman he loves, would we really want to read about him as the hero? Definitely not. There are several times when he does things considered to be respectful- extending his arm, putting his hand on the small of her back to guide her, opening doors, and Della gets resentful.
This book just didn’t do it for me. Della spends most of the book lusting after Griffith since as a “ruined woman” she claims she knows what she’s missing. She objectified him and wants to use him for sex and as a means to track down one of his former sailors. The search for Wattings is a plot device to bring them together but is anti-climactic.
The sisters from previous books are brought back for a couple scenes that were disappointing and felt like the characters were far less interesting and less likable than they were in their own books.
The part of the story regarding the dancing master who ruined her and his attempt to blackmail her family is handled very badly. Della proposes to Griffith using the ring that he bought her which felt really off. Everything that could have added interest and depth just fell flat or was irritating.
Della is not a good heroine and I would have preferred to skip this book.
What a disappointment. In book 3 we get the very intelligent, stubborn and opinionated Ida who is so likable. Here, we get Della, the sister who ran away and Ida brought back. I wish they would have left her where she was. Della is self-centered, demanding and has to control everything and everyone around her at all times.
“She hoped he had learned his lesson and wouldn’t attempt to assert his dominance over her again- if she wanted his arm, she’d take it. If she wanted anything else of his, she’d take that too.”
Why does she feel it’s okay for her to do what she wants but doesn’t respect others enough to let them have any say in their own lives? She was constantly telling Griffith what to do and how to do it. She talks to herself all the time about how she wouldn’t change anything because it brought her Nora, her beloved daughter. But we see very few scenes in which she spends any quality time with her daughter at all and she doesn’t bother to introduce her daughter to the man she is supposed to be falling in love with.
Griffith tries to defend her honor at a ball, after all he is supposed to be betrothed to her. She gets mad at him and tells him he doesn’t have the right. But if he didn’t act like a gentleman and stand up for the woman he loves, would we really want to read about him as the hero? Definitely not. There are several times when he does things considered to be respectful- extending his arm, putting his hand on the small of her back to guide her, opening doors, and Della gets resentful.
This book just didn’t do it for me. Della spends most of the book lusting after Griffith since as a “ruined woman” she claims she knows what she’s missing. She objectified him and wants to use him for sex and as a means to track down one of his former sailors. The search for Wattings is a plot device to bring them together but is anti-climactic.
The sisters from previous books are brought back for a couple scenes that were disappointing and felt like the characters were far less interesting and less likable than they were in their own books.
The part of the story regarding the dancing master who ruined her and his attempt to blackmail her family is handled very badly. Della proposes to Griffith using the ring that he bought her which felt really off. Everything that could have added interest and depth just fell flat or was irritating.
Della is not a good heroine and I would have preferred to skip this book.
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