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Mackenzies & McBrides #11
A Rogue Meets a Scandalous Lady
David Fleming, Hart Mackenzie’s right-hand man, seeks refuge with an old mentor only to find the mentor’s beautiful niece, Sophie, has sought sanctuary as well. In the quiet spaces of the countryside, David finds some peace from his reprobate existence but now faces a new problem–he’s falling for Sophie, Lady Devonport, a lady with a scandalous secret.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2019
237 people are currently reading
1482 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
215 books7,337 followersNY Times Bestselling author Jennifer Ashley writes historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance, historical mysteries, and urban fantasy as Jennifer Ashley, Allyson James, and Ashley Gardner.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
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April 26, 2019July 2019! In e-book, print, and audio. David Fleming, Hart Mackenzie's best friend, gets his HEA in a way he never expected. I hope you enjoy David and Sophie!
July 12, 2019
Starting in the year 2009, I believe, I began a brief love affair with those brawny and bonny kilt-wearing Mackenzie brothers and branched out to relationships with their nephews, sons, cousins, friends, etc. Well, that got old pretty fast and I moved on.
I still read Jennifer Ashley, but only her Captain Lacey Regency mystery series, which she writes under the pen name Ashley Gardner. Yet, when I saw this new entry in the Mackenzie series, about Hart Mackenzie's close friend and right-hand man, David Fleming, I decided to reconnect with the Mackenzie clan.
Nope. Wasn't worth the bother. A more hackneyed, prosaic, bland, boring, uninspired read is hard to imagine. David is, supposedly, a bad boy, drinking and womanizing and, basically, wasting his life. He was a contender for Eleanor's hand in Hart's HR some years ago and this new novel doesn't let us forget that, going over and over and over that fact endlessly. We also have an endless "I am not worthy of love and happiness" loop in David's head that made me want to crack his head open and pull it out.
What's the story? David, the scandalous rake, gets involved in a scandalous duel after a scandalous drunken quarrel and has to flee London. He seeks refuge with his friend and former mentor, kindly Dr. Pierson, vicar in Shropshire and an archaeology aficionado.
And guess who else is there? The vicar's niece Sophie, Lady Devonport, scandalous also at the moment because of false rumors spread about her many supposed infidelities by her husband, who wishes to divorce her and marry a woman with more money and who is more likely to give him the heir he needs, something Sophie has not done in 5 years of marriage.
So Sophie and David, two beautiful and scandalous people, are brought together while seeking asylum from London's gossipy ton. Naturally, they fall in love. Well, what we are to assume is love, although it seemed more like lust to me. But then I guess romance readers have to settle most of the time since romance authors can't seem to tell the difference. But, of course, this "love" will not have a smooth course. Sophie is on the defensive and David is insecure.
There are side stories about archaeology and a Roman villa to dig up in a Shropshire field, a ridiculous annulment vs divorce option for Sophie, a nod to Eleanor's love of photography, and there are little cameos from several familiar members of the Mackenzie family, such as Ian and Beth, Cameron, Mac and Isabella, blah, blah, blah. We are to feel so happy that each couple remains radiantly and blissfully in love, even after years of marriage and the frequent popping out of progeny.
This was supremely boring. I was hoping it would end by the 50% mark because nothing of import happened in the whole thing. I'm not sure why this was published. David was whiny, insecure, and immature most of the time. Sophie was a nonentity. The romance was unconvincing. All I can think is that Ashley needed some pin money? Well, there's a sucker born every minute. Whether or not P.T. Barnum actually said that, I'm living proof that it's true.
I still read Jennifer Ashley, but only her Captain Lacey Regency mystery series, which she writes under the pen name Ashley Gardner. Yet, when I saw this new entry in the Mackenzie series, about Hart Mackenzie's close friend and right-hand man, David Fleming, I decided to reconnect with the Mackenzie clan.
Nope. Wasn't worth the bother. A more hackneyed, prosaic, bland, boring, uninspired read is hard to imagine. David is, supposedly, a bad boy, drinking and womanizing and, basically, wasting his life. He was a contender for Eleanor's hand in Hart's HR some years ago and this new novel doesn't let us forget that, going over and over and over that fact endlessly. We also have an endless "I am not worthy of love and happiness" loop in David's head that made me want to crack his head open and pull it out.
What's the story? David, the scandalous rake, gets involved in a scandalous duel after a scandalous drunken quarrel and has to flee London. He seeks refuge with his friend and former mentor, kindly Dr. Pierson, vicar in Shropshire and an archaeology aficionado.
And guess who else is there? The vicar's niece Sophie, Lady Devonport, scandalous also at the moment because of false rumors spread about her many supposed infidelities by her husband, who wishes to divorce her and marry a woman with more money and who is more likely to give him the heir he needs, something Sophie has not done in 5 years of marriage.
So Sophie and David, two beautiful and scandalous people, are brought together while seeking asylum from London's gossipy ton. Naturally, they fall in love. Well, what we are to assume is love, although it seemed more like lust to me. But then I guess romance readers have to settle most of the time since romance authors can't seem to tell the difference. But, of course, this "love" will not have a smooth course. Sophie is on the defensive and David is insecure.
There are side stories about archaeology and a Roman villa to dig up in a Shropshire field, a ridiculous annulment vs divorce option for Sophie, a nod to Eleanor's love of photography, and there are little cameos from several familiar members of the Mackenzie family, such as Ian and Beth, Cameron, Mac and Isabella, blah, blah, blah. We are to feel so happy that each couple remains radiantly and blissfully in love, even after years of marriage and the frequent popping out of progeny.
This was supremely boring. I was hoping it would end by the 50% mark because nothing of import happened in the whole thing. I'm not sure why this was published. David was whiny, insecure, and immature most of the time. Sophie was a nonentity. The romance was unconvincing. All I can think is that Ashley needed some pin money? Well, there's a sucker born every minute. Whether or not P.T. Barnum actually said that, I'm living proof that it's true.
May 18, 2021
Not my favourite book out of this series. David was pretty unlikeable in the beginning. I didn't particularly like some aspects of the storyline much either, with the way Sophie's marriage was ended etc. I found this one dragged a bit, and it just generally didn't hold my interest like most of the 0ther books have.
May 20, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Intriguing and interesting characters and plot.
Good chemistry and romantic build up.
Interesting side characters.
Some funny parts.
Good character growth. (especially the hero.)
The archaeological digging parts.
The way both main characters helped each other.
➖ What I disliked:
The ending felt rushed.
Some issues were too easily and neatly resolved/solved.
4 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Intriguing and interesting characters and plot.
Good chemistry and romantic build up.
Interesting side characters.
Some funny parts.
Good character growth. (especially the hero.)
The archaeological digging parts.
The way both main characters helped each other.
➖ What I disliked:
The ending felt rushed.
Some issues were too easily and neatly resolved/solved.
September 20, 2019
4+ "Saved" Stars!
RTC
RTC
July 18, 2019
I loved David, he was so cynical on the surface, but he was really sweet and romantic underneath. Sophie seems sweet and naive, but could be a bit devious, like David. They are perfect for each other.
August 5, 2019
Un peu court mais très choupiiiiiii *_*
March 22, 2025
This is the rather cute, if not super standout, story of a himbo who woos both his heroine and me with his inability to do anything good besides sex, generally. When they first meet he's super drunk and in a robe yet still manages to stand up, while wobbling, to be polite as she leaves a room. He decides to better himself by learning how to grow obscure root vegetables while also ruining her stupid shitty husband's life. I swooned a little.
(Hart Mackenzie is here, remains the best.)
(Hart Mackenzie is here, remains the best.)
June 25, 2020
Finally able to lay my hands on this book in the Mackenzie series. Not as captivating as others (Ian Mackenzie being one of my favs.) Still enjoyable and I quite liked David and Sophy. I liked the vicar uncle come anthropologist equally. I must admit a few of the latter stories in this series haven't quite grabbed me as much as the first few, but this rounded out the Mackenzie / McBride sojourns quite nicely.
February 11, 2022
Summary
David Fleming and Sophie Whitfield are escaping their problems when they end up at Uncle Pierson’s country house. David is hiding while he is being charged with attempted murder and Sophie’s husband is filing for divorce. They help Uncle Pierson with an archaeological dig on his property while there while they start to develop feelings for each other. They help each other with their legal problems and slowly fall in love.
Tropes
Titled hero, class difference, rake hero, divorce, archaeology, stuck together
The Plot
The plot felt like more of a clean up of a previous storyline. The drama of Sophie’s failed marriage and Davids duel, which resulted in attempted murder charges, has already happened, so the plot is more the resolution of their struggles and them finding their “ happy ever after.” There are little side bumps to the plot for both characters: romantic jealousy, mild deception, and anger for it.
The Heroine
Sophie Whitfield’s husband is divorcing her on the grounds of infidelity and infertility, none of which is true. Sophie is a sweet, innocent hero and, although I did like her, I was bummed that she just resigned herself to the fate her jerky husband dealt her. I understand that she was meant to be quiet, innocent, and sheltered to contrast David’s worldly, rakish ways, but I kept waiting for her to get mad about the card she’d been dealt!
The Hero
David Fleming is the right hand man to the Duke of Kilmorgan. In fact. He was in love with Eleanor and proposed to her in past books. Although David is whitty and made me laugh, he annoyed me a little with the constant self-flagellation. I wish he’d been a little more confident and, for all he has accomplished politically with Hart, he has every reason to be!
The Sex
There was some heavy kissing, a great, but brief scene with cream from a profiterole that was hot! But the good stuff didn’t happen till the very end, all in one night and not in great detail. Some books you enjoy for the steam and others you simply enjoy the romance!
Stand Out Moment
Since, for me this was more a romantic read than a steamy read, one of my favorite scenes was when they finally come together at the end at the ruins. So many sweet, romantic words exchanged! Swoon!
Who Would Like This
Anyone looking for a sweet romance with two people who deserve a happy ending!
Final Thoughts
Although I did enjoy this book, it didn’t hold a candle to the previous books in the Mackenzie-McBride storyline.
David Fleming and Sophie Whitfield are escaping their problems when they end up at Uncle Pierson’s country house. David is hiding while he is being charged with attempted murder and Sophie’s husband is filing for divorce. They help Uncle Pierson with an archaeological dig on his property while there while they start to develop feelings for each other. They help each other with their legal problems and slowly fall in love.
Tropes
Titled hero, class difference, rake hero, divorce, archaeology, stuck together
The Plot
The plot felt like more of a clean up of a previous storyline. The drama of Sophie’s failed marriage and Davids duel, which resulted in attempted murder charges, has already happened, so the plot is more the resolution of their struggles and them finding their “ happy ever after.” There are little side bumps to the plot for both characters: romantic jealousy, mild deception, and anger for it.
The Heroine
Sophie Whitfield’s husband is divorcing her on the grounds of infidelity and infertility, none of which is true. Sophie is a sweet, innocent hero and, although I did like her, I was bummed that she just resigned herself to the fate her jerky husband dealt her. I understand that she was meant to be quiet, innocent, and sheltered to contrast David’s worldly, rakish ways, but I kept waiting for her to get mad about the card she’d been dealt!
The Hero
David Fleming is the right hand man to the Duke of Kilmorgan. In fact. He was in love with Eleanor and proposed to her in past books. Although David is whitty and made me laugh, he annoyed me a little with the constant self-flagellation. I wish he’d been a little more confident and, for all he has accomplished politically with Hart, he has every reason to be!
The Sex
There was some heavy kissing, a great, but brief scene with cream from a profiterole that was hot! But the good stuff didn’t happen till the very end, all in one night and not in great detail. Some books you enjoy for the steam and others you simply enjoy the romance!
Stand Out Moment
Since, for me this was more a romantic read than a steamy read, one of my favorite scenes was when they finally come together at the end at the ruins. So many sweet, romantic words exchanged! Swoon!
Who Would Like This
Anyone looking for a sweet romance with two people who deserve a happy ending!
Final Thoughts
Although I did enjoy this book, it didn’t hold a candle to the previous books in the Mackenzie-McBride storyline.
March 21, 2022
Ένα γλυκό βιβλίο.
Σε αυτή την ιστορία ακολουθούμε τον Ντέιβιντ (ξάδερφο του Χάρτ) και την Σόφι. Ο πρώτος είναι ύπουλος -με μια καλή έννοια- και ξέρει τι θέλει, ενώ η δεύτερη είναι συνεσταλμένη και αθώα. Τουλάχτιστον έτσι τους γνωριζούμε στην αρχή του βιβλίου.
Η ιστορία μας δείχνει πως οι άνθρωποι μπορούν να δουν ποιοι πραγματικά είμαστε ακόμα και αν προσπαθούμε να το κρύψουμε. Μου άρεσε που οι πρωταγωνιστές έβγαζαν αβίαστα τον καλύτερο τους εαυτό ο ένας στον άλλον.
Αν και για τα δικά μου γούστα δέθηκαν λίγο γρήγορα, τελικά φαίνεται ότι μερικές φορές σημασία δεν έχει ο χρόνος που περνάς με κάποιον αλλα το αν οι ψυχές σας αλληλοσυμπληρώνονται.
Αν ψάχνετε ένα βιβλίο που θα σας ταξιδέψει σε όμορφα ατμοσφαιρικά μέρη και θα σας γνωρίσει μια χαριτωμένη ιστορία αγάπης, τότε να το δοκιμάσετε!
Βαθμολογία: 3.5/5
Σε αυτή την ιστορία ακολουθούμε τον Ντέιβιντ (ξάδερφο του Χάρτ) και την Σόφι. Ο πρώτος είναι ύπουλος -με μια καλή έννοια- και ξέρει τι θέλει, ενώ η δεύτερη είναι συνεσταλμένη και αθώα. Τουλάχτιστον έτσι τους γνωριζούμε στην αρχή του βιβλίου.
Η ιστορία μας δείχνει πως οι άνθρωποι μπορούν να δουν ποιοι πραγματικά είμαστε ακόμα και αν προσπαθούμε να το κρύψουμε. Μου άρεσε που οι πρωταγωνιστές έβγαζαν αβίαστα τον καλύτερο τους εαυτό ο ένας στον άλλον.
Αν και για τα δικά μου γούστα δέθηκαν λίγο γρήγορα, τελικά φαίνεται ότι μερικές φορές σημασία δεν έχει ο χρόνος που περνάς με κάποιον αλλα το αν οι ψυχές σας αλληλοσυμπληρώνονται.
Αν ψάχνετε ένα βιβλίο που θα σας ταξιδέψει σε όμορφα ατμοσφαιρικά μέρη και θα σας γνωρίσει μια χαριτωμένη ιστορία αγάπης, τότε να το δοκιμάσετε!
Βαθμολογία: 3.5/5
September 2, 2019
Glad to see David's book. Ah, I do love my Mackenzie's!
August 11, 2022
Reread August 5, 2022
Sweet!
December 12, 2019
Loved it and the narration too.
Sweet!
December 12, 2019
Loved it and the narration too.
March 4, 2022
Διαβάστε το review στο site μας:
https://www.culture21century.gr/2022/...
Ο Ντέιβιντ Φλέμινγκ έχει κάνει στο παρελθόν το πέρασμά του ως side character στη σειρά της Jennifer Ashley "Οικογένεια Μακένζι", και δεν ήταν λίγοι οι αναγνώστες που γοητεύτηκαν από την παρουσία του και περίμεναν να δουν τη δική του ιστορία μελλοντικά. Να που έφτασε η στιγμή, λοιπόν, να ικανοποιηθεί η επιθυμία τους, με τον Ντέιβιντ να γίνεται πρωταγωνιστής, ν' αποκτά το δικό του βιβλίο και μέσα απ' αυτό ν' αποκτά παράλληλα μια νέα ζωή, μα και μια νέα εικόνα του τι σημαίνει έρωτας και τι πραγματικά αξίζει να κάνεις γι' αυτόν, η οποία έρχεται ν' αποτυπωθεί στο πρόσωπο μιας γυναίκας που έρχεται για να φέρει τα πάνω κάτω στη ζωή του.
Προσπαθώντας να ξεφύγει, λοιπόν, απ' όσα τον καταδιώκουν, ο Ντέιβιντ, απατεώνας και δεξί χέρι του Χαρτ Μακένζι, εγκαταλείπει το Λονδίνο και αναζητά καταφύγιο στον παλιό του φίλο και μέντορα. Την ίδια στιγμή, όμως, εκεί καταφεύγει και η ανιψιά του τελευταίου, η Σόφι, η οποία θέλει να κρυφτεί από ένα δικό της σκάνδαλο, που δεν είναι άλλο από το επικείμενο διαζύγιό της και τα κουτσομπολιά και τα σχόλια που αυτό φέρει μαζί του. Ο Ντέιβιντ και η Σόφι, που εμπλέκονται και οι δύο σε περίπλοκες προσωπικές καταστάσεις, έλκονται αμέσως ο ένας από τον άλλον παρά τα εμπόδια που βρίσκονται στον δρόμο τους, με τον πρώτο να είναι αποφασισμένος να κάνει ό,τι μπορεί για να βοηθήσει τη γυναίκα που του έχει κλέψει την καρδιά και το μυαλό, όσα μέσα κι αν χρειαστεί να επιστρατεύσει για να το πετύχει αυτό.
Η Ashley δε δίνει μεγάλη βαρύτητα στο ερωτικό κομμάτι της ιστορίας, αλλά περισσότερο στο συναισθηματικό σκέλος αυτής. Δεν μένει τόσο πολύ ιδέα του πάθους και των παρορμήσεων, αλλά στα εκ βαθέων συναισθήματα των πρωταγωνιστών της, που έπειτα από τις απογοητεύσεις που έχουν δεχθεί από τις προηγούμενες σχέσεις τους, βρίσκουν ένα ρομαντικό αποκούμπι ο ένας στον άλλον, με τη σχέση τους να παίρνει όσο χρόνο χρειάζεται προκειμένου να εξελιχθεί, να αναπτυχθεί και να διαμορφωθεί σε κάτι που δεν έχει τις ρίζες του δε τίποτα άλλα παρά στην αληθινή και ειλικρινή αγάπη, εκείνη που είναι πρόθυμη να θυσιάσει ακόμα και κομμάτια του ίδιου της του εαυτού προκειμένου να προσφέρει στον άλλον την προσωπική του ευτυχία.
Η ιστορία είναι αρκετά ρεαλιστική ως προς την αποτύπωση της εποχής που διαδραματίζονται τα γεγονότα της, παρουσιάζοντας με αληθοφάνεια τη θέση και την ευρύτερη αντιμετώπιση της γυναίκας τόσο στην κοινωνία όσο και μέσα στις σχέσεις της με το άλλο φύλο, χρησιμοποιώντας, όμως, την παρουσία του Ντέιβιντ ως μια λάμψη ελπίδας πως κάποια πράγματα μπορούν να έχουν μια διαφορετική οπτική, αρκεί να είμαστε πρόθυμοι να βγούμε έξω από τα στεγανά μας. Επιπλέον, ο ίδιος χαρακτηρίζεται από μια ανιδιοτέλεια που σου ζεσταίνει την καρδιά, αλλά που επιτρέπει, την ίδια στιγμή, στους άλλους γυναικείους χαρακτήρες της ιστορίας αυτής, να φανερώσουν τη δυναμική τους και να κινηθούν έτσι ώστε να βοηθήσουν τη Σόφι να λύσει τα προβλήματά της.
Στο βιβλίο αυτό θα δούμε να κάνουν το πέρασμά τους κι άλλοι αγαπημένοι χαρακτήρες, από προηγούμενα βιβλία της σειράς, με τον καθέναν από αυτούς να παίζει αρκετά σημαντικό ρόλο, λειτουργώντας ως καταλύτες εκεί όπου είναι απαραίτητο. Παράλληλα, συμβαίνουν αρκετές μηχανορραφίες στα παρασκήνια, όπου επηρεάζουν την ιστορία με τον δικό τους τρόπο, προσφέροντας στιγμές έντασης, ενώ ταυτόχρονα βοηθούν τη ροή έτσι ώστε να κυλάει καλύτερα και με περισσότερο νεύρο. Συνολικά, "Το ξέφωτο" είναι μια πραγματικά τρυφερή και ρομαντική ιστορία, από εκείνες που σου ζεσταίνουν την καρδιά χωρίς να κάνουν κάτι το ιδιαίτερο, μα και μια ιστορία που θα σε κάνει αρκετές φορές να γελάσεις και ακόμα περισσότερες να χαμογελάσεις.
https://www.culture21century.gr/2022/...
Ο Ντέιβιντ Φλέμινγκ έχει κάνει στο παρελθόν το πέρασμά του ως side character στη σειρά της Jennifer Ashley "Οικογένεια Μακένζι", και δεν ήταν λίγοι οι αναγνώστες που γοητεύτηκαν από την παρουσία του και περίμεναν να δουν τη δική του ιστορία μελλοντικά. Να που έφτασε η στιγμή, λοιπόν, να ικανοποιηθεί η επιθυμία τους, με τον Ντέιβιντ να γίνεται πρωταγωνιστής, ν' αποκτά το δικό του βιβλίο και μέσα απ' αυτό ν' αποκτά παράλληλα μια νέα ζωή, μα και μια νέα εικόνα του τι σημαίνει έρωτας και τι πραγματικά αξίζει να κάνεις γι' αυτόν, η οποία έρχεται ν' αποτυπωθεί στο πρόσωπο μιας γυναίκας που έρχεται για να φέρει τα πάνω κάτω στη ζωή του.
Προσπαθώντας να ξεφύγει, λοιπόν, απ' όσα τον καταδιώκουν, ο Ντέιβιντ, απατεώνας και δεξί χέρι του Χαρτ Μακένζι, εγκαταλείπει το Λονδίνο και αναζητά καταφύγιο στον παλιό του φίλο και μέντορα. Την ίδια στιγμή, όμως, εκεί καταφεύγει και η ανιψιά του τελευταίου, η Σόφι, η οποία θέλει να κρυφτεί από ένα δικό της σκάνδαλο, που δεν είναι άλλο από το επικείμενο διαζύγιό της και τα κουτσομπολιά και τα σχόλια που αυτό φέρει μαζί του. Ο Ντέιβιντ και η Σόφι, που εμπλέκονται και οι δύο σε περίπλοκες προσωπικές καταστάσεις, έλκονται αμέσως ο ένας από τον άλλον παρά τα εμπόδια που βρίσκονται στον δρόμο τους, με τον πρώτο να είναι αποφασισμένος να κάνει ό,τι μπορεί για να βοηθήσει τη γυναίκα που του έχει κλέψει την καρδιά και το μυαλό, όσα μέσα κι αν χρειαστεί να επιστρατεύσει για να το πετύχει αυτό.
Η Ashley δε δίνει μεγάλη βαρύτητα στο ερωτικό κομμάτι της ιστορίας, αλλά περισσότερο στο συναισθηματικό σκέλος αυτής. Δεν μένει τόσο πολύ ιδέα του πάθους και των παρορμήσεων, αλλά στα εκ βαθέων συναισθήματα των πρωταγωνιστών της, που έπειτα από τις απογοητεύσεις που έχουν δεχθεί από τις προηγούμενες σχέσεις τους, βρίσκουν ένα ρομαντικό αποκούμπι ο ένας στον άλλον, με τη σχέση τους να παίρνει όσο χρόνο χρειάζεται προκειμένου να εξελιχθεί, να αναπτυχθεί και να διαμορφωθεί σε κάτι που δεν έχει τις ρίζες του δε τίποτα άλλα παρά στην αληθινή και ειλικρινή αγάπη, εκείνη που είναι πρόθυμη να θυσιάσει ακόμα και κομμάτια του ίδιου της του εαυτού προκειμένου να προσφέρει στον άλλον την προσωπική του ευτυχία.
Η ιστορία είναι αρκετά ρεαλιστική ως προς την αποτύπωση της εποχής που διαδραματίζονται τα γεγονότα της, παρουσιάζοντας με αληθοφάνεια τη θέση και την ευρύτερη αντιμετώπιση της γυναίκας τόσο στην κοινωνία όσο και μέσα στις σχέσεις της με το άλλο φύλο, χρησιμοποιώντας, όμως, την παρουσία του Ντέιβιντ ως μια λάμψη ελπίδας πως κάποια πράγματα μπορούν να έχουν μια διαφορετική οπτική, αρκεί να είμαστε πρόθυμοι να βγούμε έξω από τα στεγανά μας. Επιπλέον, ο ίδιος χαρακτηρίζεται από μια ανιδιοτέλεια που σου ζεσταίνει την καρδιά, αλλά που επιτρέπει, την ίδια στιγμή, στους άλλους γυναικείους χαρακτήρες της ιστορίας αυτής, να φανερώσουν τη δυναμική τους και να κινηθούν έτσι ώστε να βοηθήσουν τη Σόφι να λύσει τα προβλήματά της.
Στο βιβλίο αυτό θα δούμε να κάνουν το πέρασμά τους κι άλλοι αγαπημένοι χαρακτήρες, από προηγούμενα βιβλία της σειράς, με τον καθέναν από αυτούς να παίζει αρκετά σημαντικό ρόλο, λειτουργώντας ως καταλύτες εκεί όπου είναι απαραίτητο. Παράλληλα, συμβαίνουν αρκετές μηχανορραφίες στα παρασκήνια, όπου επηρεάζουν την ιστορία με τον δικό τους τρόπο, προσφέροντας στιγμές έντασης, ενώ ταυτόχρονα βοηθούν τη ροή έτσι ώστε να κυλάει καλύτερα και με περισσότερο νεύρο. Συνολικά, "Το ξέφωτο" είναι μια πραγματικά τρυφερή και ρομαντική ιστορία, από εκείνες που σου ζεσταίνουν την καρδιά χωρίς να κάνουν κάτι το ιδιαίτερο, μα και μια ιστορία που θα σε κάνει αρκετές φορές να γελάσεις και ακόμα περισσότερες να χαμογελάσεις.
November 10, 2022
A good historical romance but not a great one. David Fleming has been in many of the previous MacKenzie books, most notable The Duke's Perfect Wife as Hart's right-hand man and the man who was in love with Eleanor. This books starts with a drunk David getting himself into a duel with an Earl who now wants to see him hang.
Sophie is our heroine and her scandal comes from a husband telling lies about her so he can get a divorce. Despite David's mounting problems, he decides to use his skills in manipulation to get Sophie out of scandal and out of her terrible marriage.
The background of the story is there to bring the characters together but what drives the romantic conflict is both of their history of not trusting what love is. Sophie was charmed by her husband until she realized that it was all a sham. David loved a woman that could never return his feelings but does treasure him as a friend. So while they both develop attraction that grows into deep feelings for each other, neither one of them fully believes the other is also falling in love (but everyone around them sees it clearly!)
So a low-angst quick read that brings in the characters we've come to know and love in this series.
Sophie is our heroine and her scandal comes from a husband telling lies about her so he can get a divorce. Despite David's mounting problems, he decides to use his skills in manipulation to get Sophie out of scandal and out of her terrible marriage.
The background of the story is there to bring the characters together but what drives the romantic conflict is both of their history of not trusting what love is. Sophie was charmed by her husband until she realized that it was all a sham. David loved a woman that could never return his feelings but does treasure him as a friend. So while they both develop attraction that grows into deep feelings for each other, neither one of them fully believes the other is also falling in love (but everyone around them sees it clearly!)
So a low-angst quick read that brings in the characters we've come to know and love in this series.
April 5, 2022
I have loved this series but this was one of my least favourite. The characters were good but the insta love isn’t something I usually like. Feels like a cop out. So while I did enjoy this book I can’t give it a ton of stars, especially compared to the others.
January 31, 2022
A Rogue Meets a Scandalous Lady is book 11 in the MacKenzies & McBrides series. David Fleming, Hart MacKenzie’s right-hand man gets his own book. While seeking refuge with an old mentor, David meets the vicar’s niece Sophie, who has also sought sanctuary. Sophie’s husband, the Earl of Davenport is divorcing Sophie proclaiming she’s an adulteress.
So this one was just okay. I didn’t like how high-handed David becomes over Sophie’s scandalous dissolution of her marriage. Despite Sophie and her Uncle asking David not to get involved in her divorce, David takes off to meet with her husband and gets himself completely involved in the whole thing. There is also a lot of telling and not showing in this book, which I’m never a fan of. We are told about Sophie and David’s friendship formed over the first few days together at her Uncle’s but don’t get to see any of it, so when they share a kiss it just feels like zero chemistry/relationship lead to this. Sophie also spends time later in the book with Eleanor MacKenzie and all of the MacKenzie sister-in-laws but again we don’t get to see any of that, just hear about all the events they attend.
There are some nice moments in this, David and Sophie help her Uncle with his hobby of archaeological digging. We also get quite a few appearances of Sinclair McBride and Hart & Eleanor. At a ball towards the end of the book we have minor mentions of Cam & Ainsley, Mac & Isabella, Daniel & Violet, Ian & Beth, Sinclair & Bertie McBride, Elliot & Juliana McBride all in attendance. This book was just a very slow burn with low chemistry between the couple and steam (nothing but a couple kisses before 90% in).
So this one was just okay. I didn’t like how high-handed David becomes over Sophie’s scandalous dissolution of her marriage. Despite Sophie and her Uncle asking David not to get involved in her divorce, David takes off to meet with her husband and gets himself completely involved in the whole thing. There is also a lot of telling and not showing in this book, which I’m never a fan of. We are told about Sophie and David’s friendship formed over the first few days together at her Uncle’s but don’t get to see any of it, so when they share a kiss it just feels like zero chemistry/relationship lead to this. Sophie also spends time later in the book with Eleanor MacKenzie and all of the MacKenzie sister-in-laws but again we don’t get to see any of that, just hear about all the events they attend.
There are some nice moments in this, David and Sophie help her Uncle with his hobby of archaeological digging. We also get quite a few appearances of Sinclair McBride and Hart & Eleanor. At a ball towards the end of the book we have minor mentions of Cam & Ainsley, Mac & Isabella, Daniel & Violet, Ian & Beth, Sinclair & Bertie McBride, Elliot & Juliana McBride all in attendance. This book was just a very slow burn with low chemistry between the couple and steam (nothing but a couple kisses before 90% in).
September 4, 2019
I am a Mackenzie fan from day 1, Ian still being my favorite. We have now branched out to Hart's cousin and BF, David Fleming. A man with no family and a sad upbringing, he has played many parts, but at last a scandal may finally bring him down. He escapes to a place he loves, and at breakfast looks in to a face he immediately falls for. Sophie, the vicar's niece is enmeshed in her own scandal, one that is brought on by the unfair marriage laws in England in Victorian times. All the Mackenzie's make appearances and we meet several new offspring. I look forward to the next Mackenzie book.
October 21, 2019
I think the best thing about this one was David changing and Sophie seeing him for who he was, not who he showed to the world. At heart David is a good guy, just drowning in loneliness as Hart and the rest of the clan find their one and happiness, it seems to show David all he is missing. Sure his helping Sophie was a bit altruistic, but she needed the help and needed to see someone valued her as a woman. These two very much deserved each other!
April 29, 2021
More a 3.8
There are some elements which could have been done better, I think.
There are some elements which could have been done better, I think.
September 16, 2019
In the romance genre there are series that have dragged on and on for far too long; stories become repetitive and mundane. Jennifer Ashley's Mackenzies & McBrides series is one of the few that each and every book released is as fresh, interesting and as passionate as the first book. I fell in love with the series after reading the first chapter of "The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie", the first book of the series. Since then, I have read each book in the series, following the journey's of the Mackenzies, the McBrides and their friends.
In "A Rogue Meets a Scandalous Lady", Ms. Ashley's writing continues to excel with wonderful characters, humor and with what she writes best ~ passion-filled romance!
David Fleming was introduced in the 4th release of the series, "The Duke's Perfect Wife", as Hart Mackenzie's right hand man. Because of David's proficiency to get the job done, he has made a number of enemies. After evading a dueling situation, he escapes to the one place he has found comfort and peace, the home of his mentor and friend, a Vicar, Dr. Louis Pierson.
Also escaping the scandal of divorce, Dr. Pierson's niece, Lady Sophie Devonport has always found refuge in the home of her uncle. He treats her as an equal and appreciates her intellect. Sadly, most women of the Victorian era are meant to adorn the arm of husband and pop out an heir, a spare, and to look the other way as their husband takes on a mistress or two (or ten). Simply put, the high-born women in Victorian England really don't have much of a life.
When Sophie first meets David, he is suffering from a bad hangover and a duel gone upside down. In need of a shave and rumpled, David really doesn't present himself at his best. Sophie is mortified to have to admit to David that her husband is divorcing her because she is unable to give him an heir. Of course, given the era, no one will even consider the man is at fault. The spontaneous and sizzling connection that Sophie and David share will have you turning page after page to read their story.
As in her previous books, Ms. Ashley continues to write fabulously believable stories of flawed heroines and heroes. "A Rogue Meets a Scandalous Lady" is a definite must read for fans (both old and new), of the series. David Fleming is a rogue and Sophia a scandalous woman, both have earned their HEA. A reader cannot help but cheer on them on. Ms. Ashley does not disappoint; she has once again, scored 5 stars!
In "A Rogue Meets a Scandalous Lady", Ms. Ashley's writing continues to excel with wonderful characters, humor and with what she writes best ~ passion-filled romance!
David Fleming was introduced in the 4th release of the series, "The Duke's Perfect Wife", as Hart Mackenzie's right hand man. Because of David's proficiency to get the job done, he has made a number of enemies. After evading a dueling situation, he escapes to the one place he has found comfort and peace, the home of his mentor and friend, a Vicar, Dr. Louis Pierson.
Also escaping the scandal of divorce, Dr. Pierson's niece, Lady Sophie Devonport has always found refuge in the home of her uncle. He treats her as an equal and appreciates her intellect. Sadly, most women of the Victorian era are meant to adorn the arm of husband and pop out an heir, a spare, and to look the other way as their husband takes on a mistress or two (or ten). Simply put, the high-born women in Victorian England really don't have much of a life.
When Sophie first meets David, he is suffering from a bad hangover and a duel gone upside down. In need of a shave and rumpled, David really doesn't present himself at his best. Sophie is mortified to have to admit to David that her husband is divorcing her because she is unable to give him an heir. Of course, given the era, no one will even consider the man is at fault. The spontaneous and sizzling connection that Sophie and David share will have you turning page after page to read their story.
As in her previous books, Ms. Ashley continues to write fabulously believable stories of flawed heroines and heroes. "A Rogue Meets a Scandalous Lady" is a definite must read for fans (both old and new), of the series. David Fleming is a rogue and Sophia a scandalous woman, both have earned their HEA. A reader cannot help but cheer on them on. Ms. Ashley does not disappoint; she has once again, scored 5 stars!
July 11, 2019
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-W4
As A ROGUE MEETS A SCANDALOUS LADY opens, the hero, David Fleming is acting anything but heroic. He’s more than three sheets to the wind and involved in a duel with a gentleman who’s convinced David has been dallying with his wife. In this instance, David is innocent of everything but a mild flirtation, but the situation escalates to such a point that charges are filed, and David is advised to leave town until things cool down. David flees to Shropshire to visit his long time friend, Lucas Pierson, a vicar with a passion for archaeology.
Also visiting the vicar is his niece, Lady Devonport, who is embroiled in a scandal through no fault of her own. Sophie has been unable to produce a child for her husband, the earl, and since her dowry has long been spent, he has decided to obtain a divorce, painting his innocent wife as a blatant adulteress. Unable to face society’s censure due to her husband’s lies, Sophie chose to live quietly with her uncle until her future is decided.
David has indeed been a rogue. As best friend and right hand man to the powerful duke, Hart Mackenzie, he is very well versed in schemes, deals, intrigue, and scandal. He is able to tell right away that Sophie is innocent of her husband’s outrageous claims. As the days pass, and the alcohol leaves his system, David and Sophie work with Lucas on his quest to find some significant archaeological ruins. David becomes intrigued with his beautiful, but sad companion, while Sophie sees the kind and caring man beneath the outward roguish demeanor.
David once believed himself to be in love, but it never worked out, so he has since lived a dissipated life. What he feels now for Sophie is unlike anything he’s felt before, even that devastating first love. He’s determined to use his connections and all his cunning to save Sophie from the disastrous situation she’s in. He’ll see that she’s free to live the life she chooses, free of any scandal. Unfortunately, his own problems escalate, as it seems the earl he was dueling with is determined to see David thrown into jail. Ironically, Sophie is not above a little scheming of her own, and devises a plan to ensure that David is not imprisoned.
I could not believe how much I came to love David. As the layers of his personality were slowly peeled away, they revealed a man who believes himself to have no value, yet he cares deeply and does much good for others. His longing for Sophie is so poignant, and his love so strong, that he truly puts her happiness above everything else. He wants her to love him more than anything he’s ever wanted before, yet he’s sure she couldn’t possibly return his feelings. But he can’t help hoping….
Sophie is a delight, and a perfect match for David. She offers him love and acceptance, and doesn’t want to change him. She sees underneath to his true heart and brings him genuine happiness and a solution to his restlessness. And it seems that Sophie has a bit of a roguish side, too.
A ROGUE MEETS A SCANDALOUS LADY is a wonderful romance with characters I truly connected with. David’s insecurity was so poignant and intense, and it touched me deeply. The start to their happy ever after is so joyfully written that I was no doubt grinning from ear to ear. I always love to visit with the Mackenzie family, and Eleanor plays a significant role in this story. If you haven’t read any of the previous books, you can absolutely read A ROGUE MEETS A SCANDALOUS LADY as a standalone. (But if you haven’t read the previous books --- WHY NOT?) I love the romance between this couple so much, and am still enjoying a fabulous book hangover a day later.
As A ROGUE MEETS A SCANDALOUS LADY opens, the hero, David Fleming is acting anything but heroic. He’s more than three sheets to the wind and involved in a duel with a gentleman who’s convinced David has been dallying with his wife. In this instance, David is innocent of everything but a mild flirtation, but the situation escalates to such a point that charges are filed, and David is advised to leave town until things cool down. David flees to Shropshire to visit his long time friend, Lucas Pierson, a vicar with a passion for archaeology.
Also visiting the vicar is his niece, Lady Devonport, who is embroiled in a scandal through no fault of her own. Sophie has been unable to produce a child for her husband, the earl, and since her dowry has long been spent, he has decided to obtain a divorce, painting his innocent wife as a blatant adulteress. Unable to face society’s censure due to her husband’s lies, Sophie chose to live quietly with her uncle until her future is decided.
David has indeed been a rogue. As best friend and right hand man to the powerful duke, Hart Mackenzie, he is very well versed in schemes, deals, intrigue, and scandal. He is able to tell right away that Sophie is innocent of her husband’s outrageous claims. As the days pass, and the alcohol leaves his system, David and Sophie work with Lucas on his quest to find some significant archaeological ruins. David becomes intrigued with his beautiful, but sad companion, while Sophie sees the kind and caring man beneath the outward roguish demeanor.
David once believed himself to be in love, but it never worked out, so he has since lived a dissipated life. What he feels now for Sophie is unlike anything he’s felt before, even that devastating first love. He’s determined to use his connections and all his cunning to save Sophie from the disastrous situation she’s in. He’ll see that she’s free to live the life she chooses, free of any scandal. Unfortunately, his own problems escalate, as it seems the earl he was dueling with is determined to see David thrown into jail. Ironically, Sophie is not above a little scheming of her own, and devises a plan to ensure that David is not imprisoned.
I could not believe how much I came to love David. As the layers of his personality were slowly peeled away, they revealed a man who believes himself to have no value, yet he cares deeply and does much good for others. His longing for Sophie is so poignant, and his love so strong, that he truly puts her happiness above everything else. He wants her to love him more than anything he’s ever wanted before, yet he’s sure she couldn’t possibly return his feelings. But he can’t help hoping….
Sophie is a delight, and a perfect match for David. She offers him love and acceptance, and doesn’t want to change him. She sees underneath to his true heart and brings him genuine happiness and a solution to his restlessness. And it seems that Sophie has a bit of a roguish side, too.
A ROGUE MEETS A SCANDALOUS LADY is a wonderful romance with characters I truly connected with. David’s insecurity was so poignant and intense, and it touched me deeply. The start to their happy ever after is so joyfully written that I was no doubt grinning from ear to ear. I always love to visit with the Mackenzie family, and Eleanor plays a significant role in this story. If you haven’t read any of the previous books, you can absolutely read A ROGUE MEETS A SCANDALOUS LADY as a standalone. (But if you haven’t read the previous books --- WHY NOT?) I love the romance between this couple so much, and am still enjoying a fabulous book hangover a day later.
September 9, 2020
3.5 stars
This is the 11th book of the Mackenzies & McBrides story, featuring Hart's best friend David Fleming. Actually David is not exactly a Mackenzie. His great-great aunt might have married a Duke of Kilmorgan, but David's direct ancestor didn't really have a relationship with Mackenzie family. I wonder that's why I didn't particularly charmed with it *lol*.
Well, there's Eleanor who makes appearance, and later on the Mackenzie's brood when , but I guess I totally miss the Mackenzie/McBride family making a whole lot of chaos *laugh*
It's still quite enjoyable ... David and Sophie making "connection" at small town of Shropshire. David laying low after a man accusing him of murder attempt, Sophie hiding because her vicious husband is slandering her name for a sake of divorce. It's sweet... It's also quite slow burn because for the majority of the book, or at least around 2/3rd part I think, Sophie is still married and David refused to make further move.
Which is why I'm quite confused with how
All in all, a nice installment. I wonder if this is the last book of the series...
This is the 11th book of the Mackenzies & McBrides story, featuring Hart's best friend David Fleming. Actually David is not exactly a Mackenzie. His great-great aunt might have married a Duke of Kilmorgan, but David's direct ancestor didn't really have a relationship with Mackenzie family. I wonder that's why I didn't particularly charmed with it *lol*.
Well, there's Eleanor who makes appearance, and later on the Mackenzie's brood when , but I guess I totally miss the Mackenzie/McBride family making a whole lot of chaos *laugh*
It's still quite enjoyable ... David and Sophie making "connection" at small town of Shropshire. David laying low after a man accusing him of murder attempt, Sophie hiding because her vicious husband is slandering her name for a sake of divorce. It's sweet... It's also quite slow burn because for the majority of the book, or at least around 2/3rd part I think, Sophie is still married and David refused to make further move.
Which is why I'm quite confused with how
All in all, a nice installment. I wonder if this is the last book of the series...
January 16, 2022
I love when a side character finally gets their story! David Flemming has been a stray attached to the Mackenzies and McBride books all along - he is a part rake, part brilliant political attache, and all a bit lonely. He drinks too much and is honestly a bit pitiable by the time Eleanor and Hart have their story. I loved watching him sort of getting his own path and story in this one. Not to mention seeing Sinclair, Hart, and Eleanor! The leading lady is an absolute delight! Her life hasn't been easy - and is currently being accused of adultery in the courts so that her husband is free to marry again... When they both land in the middle of nowhere to try to put themselves together again - they also find each other.
Both main characters were so mature that I delighted in their slow-burn - especially for Ashley - romance. I also deeply love how both are going through their own parallel changes but that only makes them appreciate each other more.
TL/DR Review
Stars: Four Stars (really just felt a bit short and was left wanting more)
Steam: slow burn, lovely intimacy, no kink
Tropes: redeemed rake, experienced heroine, slow burn, forced proximity.
For Fans Of: Redeemed rakes who caught feelings
Theme Song: Thousand Years by Christina Perri
Subgenre: historic romance
CW/ TW: alcohol abuse on page, toxic former relationship, death of parents
Both main characters were so mature that I delighted in their slow-burn - especially for Ashley - romance. I also deeply love how both are going through their own parallel changes but that only makes them appreciate each other more.
TL/DR Review
Stars: Four Stars (really just felt a bit short and was left wanting more)
Steam: slow burn, lovely intimacy, no kink
Tropes: redeemed rake, experienced heroine, slow burn, forced proximity.
For Fans Of: Redeemed rakes who caught feelings
Theme Song: Thousand Years by Christina Perri
Subgenre: historic romance
CW/ TW: alcohol abuse on page, toxic former relationship, death of parents
June 18, 2021
-5%; Seeing Malcom and Mary mentioned here just gave me joy :) Theirs is my absolute favorite of this entire series and one of my favorite books.
I love the humor in this book. So well done.
49%; David and this Gaspar fellow’s interaction has me laughing aloud.
100%; I was really enjoying it. The banter, the settings that transported readers there, the interaction between David and Sophie. I really liked both characters. But from 60%, it began to drag with the characters often going from place to place without much happening. Still I enjoyed the writing so much :)
I love the humor in this book. So well done.
49%; David and this Gaspar fellow’s interaction has me laughing aloud.
100%; I was really enjoying it. The banter, the settings that transported readers there, the interaction between David and Sophie. I really liked both characters. But from 60%, it began to drag with the characters often going from place to place without much happening. Still I enjoyed the writing so much :)
December 21, 2023
I honestly really liked this and wish it was full length! Not sure why it’s ~100 pages shorter than all the other full installments. Good setup, compelling relationship development, enough going on to not be boring. A bit convenient in parts but overall I enjoyed.
July 12, 2019
Finally got David Fleming’s story !!! It’s short but works out just fine. Got a chance to visit some old faves within the story. Really enjoyed it
July 24, 2019
Always a pleasure to read Jennifer Ashley. Waited for David's story - loved it! Enjoyable read. 5☆
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