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Never the Bride #10
Always the Rebel
Always the rebel and never the bride - it's down with men for this young lady…
Miss Sophia Worsley never expected to be left at the altar, but two broken engagements was enough. Never again will she allow herself to be that vulnerable. It's time to rebel against all that society expects of her. Though even at three and twenty, she knew wearing breeches at Almack's were probably too much…
If there is one man bored of life, it's Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth. He's seen it all and nothing can surprise him - though the woman laying down a Royal Flush with a grin is certainly new. Ah, a challenge. Finally something for Philip to sink his teeth into - though that's not what he wants to sink into the delectable Miss Sophia Worsley.
He's determined to have her. She's turned her back on men and matrimony. Passions ignite as two challengers circle each other looking for a weakness.
But the rebellious Sophia may just have the upper hand as Philip loses his heart faster than he could have predicted. Will this rebellion end in tears?
Miss Sophia Worsley never expected to be left at the altar, but two broken engagements was enough. Never again will she allow herself to be that vulnerable. It's time to rebel against all that society expects of her. Though even at three and twenty, she knew wearing breeches at Almack's were probably too much…
If there is one man bored of life, it's Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth. He's seen it all and nothing can surprise him - though the woman laying down a Royal Flush with a grin is certainly new. Ah, a challenge. Finally something for Philip to sink his teeth into - though that's not what he wants to sink into the delectable Miss Sophia Worsley.
He's determined to have her. She's turned her back on men and matrimony. Passions ignite as two challengers circle each other looking for a weakness.
But the rebellious Sophia may just have the upper hand as Philip loses his heart faster than he could have predicted. Will this rebellion end in tears?
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2021
195 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Emily E.K. Murdoch
149 books283 followersEmily E.K. Murdoch is also known as Emily Murdoch.
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 25, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Sophia Worsley is in a few books in this series, two of them she’s engaged to other men, in this one she finally finds her love.
But will she make it to the alter?
Philip Egerton Earl Of Marnmouth is a bit of a Rogue, never married but with various Mistresses, all now in the past , he resides in London, Bath and infrequently on his Estate in Devon.
When these two meet the air is electric, but where he is accepting of the feelings he has towards her, she want nothing to do with him, twice burned forever shy it seems.
Will he ever get her to take the plunge with him?
Great read, full of fun and entertaining to the Max.
Hoping to see Larnwick and Braedon getting to settle down happily soon too, I really hope more books are planned for them. x
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Sophia Worsley is in a few books in this series, two of them she’s engaged to other men, in this one she finally finds her love.
But will she make it to the alter?
Philip Egerton Earl Of Marnmouth is a bit of a Rogue, never married but with various Mistresses, all now in the past , he resides in London, Bath and infrequently on his Estate in Devon.
When these two meet the air is electric, but where he is accepting of the feelings he has towards her, she want nothing to do with him, twice burned forever shy it seems.
Will he ever get her to take the plunge with him?
Great read, full of fun and entertaining to the Max.
Hoping to see Larnwick and Braedon getting to settle down happily soon too, I really hope more books are planned for them. x
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
January 27, 2021
Always the Rebel
Never the Bride Series #10
Emily EK Murdoch
https://www.facebook.com/theemilyekmu...
Release Date 01/28/2021
Publisher Dragonblade Publishing
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Always the rebel and never the bride - it's down with men for this young lady…
Miss Sophia Worsley never expected to be left at the altar, but two broken engagements was enough. Never again will she allow herself to be that vulnerable. It's time to rebel against all that society expects of her. Though even at three and twenty, she knew wearing breeches at Almack's were probably too much…
If there is one man bored of life, it's Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth. He's seen it all and nothing can surprise him - though the woman laying down a Royal Flush with a grin is certainly new. Ah, a challenge. Finally something for Philip to sink his teeth into - though that's not what he wants to sink into the delectable Miss Sophia Worsley.
He's determined to have her. She's turned her back on men and matrimony. Passions ignite as two challengers circle each other looking for a weakness.
But the rebellious Sophia may just have the upper hand as Philip loses his heart faster than he could have predicted. Will this rebellion end in tears?
This full length novel is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhangers, and is part of a series that can be read in any order
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her past wounds prevent her to see whet is right in front of her...
I was not sure I would like Sophia after she blackmailed Jacob in the previous book. But I was not in her shoes and life was unfair to women during this era. She would be the brunt of a broken engagement, worse as it would be the second one.
But I like my heroes to be flawed, she is not a bad person, she tried the wrong way to save her pride and reputation. And now, now more. She wants to live for herself, learn who she can be without the weight of the marriage mart on her shoulders. She tries to be bold, but it is not easy when she was taught the opposite all her life. She rises eyebrows, elicits whispers but struggles to find the right pace between rebellion and conformity.
Philip is as much flawed, at 41 he has avoided any entanglement that could lead to the Larson’s trap. He has mistresses, some illegitimate children and he is bored to no end of the ton’s life. He is like most average man of his time, he enjoys life his wealth and birth procure to him, and does not question it. But as time passes, it still felt like something is missing.
This is how Sophia’s act of rebellion ignites a spark in his eyes, she draws him to her. For once a miss who does not try to perfectly fit in.
Their affair is one of defiance then light friendship to trust until a well-meant but badly handled act shatters their fragile relationship. Philip is new to these kind of feelings why he is lost and does not behave rationally and make mistakes after mistakes but Sophia struggles as much as him, too harsh at time in her need to express her difference, still she is in her right to ask for respect.
4.25 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen detailed lovemaking scene.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Dragonblade Publishing. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Never the Bride Series #10
Emily EK Murdoch
https://www.facebook.com/theemilyekmu...
Release Date 01/28/2021
Publisher Dragonblade Publishing
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Always the rebel and never the bride - it's down with men for this young lady…
Miss Sophia Worsley never expected to be left at the altar, but two broken engagements was enough. Never again will she allow herself to be that vulnerable. It's time to rebel against all that society expects of her. Though even at three and twenty, she knew wearing breeches at Almack's were probably too much…
If there is one man bored of life, it's Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth. He's seen it all and nothing can surprise him - though the woman laying down a Royal Flush with a grin is certainly new. Ah, a challenge. Finally something for Philip to sink his teeth into - though that's not what he wants to sink into the delectable Miss Sophia Worsley.
He's determined to have her. She's turned her back on men and matrimony. Passions ignite as two challengers circle each other looking for a weakness.
But the rebellious Sophia may just have the upper hand as Philip loses his heart faster than he could have predicted. Will this rebellion end in tears?
This full length novel is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhangers, and is part of a series that can be read in any order
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her past wounds prevent her to see whet is right in front of her...
I was not sure I would like Sophia after she blackmailed Jacob in the previous book. But I was not in her shoes and life was unfair to women during this era. She would be the brunt of a broken engagement, worse as it would be the second one.
But I like my heroes to be flawed, she is not a bad person, she tried the wrong way to save her pride and reputation. And now, now more. She wants to live for herself, learn who she can be without the weight of the marriage mart on her shoulders. She tries to be bold, but it is not easy when she was taught the opposite all her life. She rises eyebrows, elicits whispers but struggles to find the right pace between rebellion and conformity.
Philip is as much flawed, at 41 he has avoided any entanglement that could lead to the Larson’s trap. He has mistresses, some illegitimate children and he is bored to no end of the ton’s life. He is like most average man of his time, he enjoys life his wealth and birth procure to him, and does not question it. But as time passes, it still felt like something is missing.
This is how Sophia’s act of rebellion ignites a spark in his eyes, she draws him to her. For once a miss who does not try to perfectly fit in.
Their affair is one of defiance then light friendship to trust until a well-meant but badly handled act shatters their fragile relationship. Philip is new to these kind of feelings why he is lost and does not behave rationally and make mistakes after mistakes but Sophia struggles as much as him, too harsh at time in her need to express her difference, still she is in her right to ask for respect.
4.25 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen detailed lovemaking scene.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Dragonblade Publishing. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
February 2, 2021
Fresh from her second broken engagement, Miss Sophia Worsley has had enough! She's vowed never to be so vulnerable again and, instead, scandalizes the ton showing up to her ex-fiancé's wedding breakfast in breeches. Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth, is bored with life. He doubts any woman can surprise him...until he meets Sophia.
This is book ten in the Never The Bride series. Sophia featured prominently in the previous story, and Philip has been mentioned many times. In the last book, Sophia entered into an engagement of convenience, but that hero was in love with (and accidently fathered a child with) someone else. Even though Sophia was the jilted party, she was cold and not a particularly sympathetic character.
I like that Murdoch's characters are often shades of gray, not painted with the same brushstrokes. Sophia was hurt and lashing out. She didn't always make the best choices (in either book), but she has a backstory that explained her behavior. Philip was also flawed but intriguing. He was drawn into Sophia's unconventional actions. The more she rebelled, the more interested he became. He wanted to get to know her...he didn't judge her.
Tropes: Jilted, Opposites Attract
Eggplant rating: 2
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #AlwaystheRebel #NetGalley
This is book ten in the Never The Bride series. Sophia featured prominently in the previous story, and Philip has been mentioned many times. In the last book, Sophia entered into an engagement of convenience, but that hero was in love with (and accidently fathered a child with) someone else. Even though Sophia was the jilted party, she was cold and not a particularly sympathetic character.
I like that Murdoch's characters are often shades of gray, not painted with the same brushstrokes. Sophia was hurt and lashing out. She didn't always make the best choices (in either book), but she has a backstory that explained her behavior. Philip was also flawed but intriguing. He was drawn into Sophia's unconventional actions. The more she rebelled, the more interested he became. He wanted to get to know her...he didn't judge her.
Tropes: Jilted, Opposites Attract
Eggplant rating: 2
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #AlwaystheRebel #NetGalley
February 15, 2021
This is the 10th book in the Never The Bride series, but it stands pretty well alone - I haven’t read any of the others and didn’t have any trouble following along with the plot, even though apparently both principal characters have appeared in previous books and other characters are obviously recurring.
Jilted at the altar for the second time, Sophia Worsley is absolutely done with living up to Society’s expectations. Turning up at her erstwhile groom’s wedding in breeches, she knows she’s marking herself forever unmarriageable - and that suits her just fine. Her rebellion attracts the attention of the jaded Earl of Marnmouth, though, and suddenly she finds herself running into the dratted man everywhere.
Philip needs to marry, but has vowed to choose only a woman who is capable of surprising him. The beauty wearing breeches into Almack’s definitely fits the bill, but she’s sworn off marriage.
I really liked Sophia’s rebellious streak and the fact that she had just gone past caring what anyone else thought of her. I was not so keen on the fact that she didn’t seem to have any plan for her life. At all. Other than ‘don’t want to get married’ she didn’t seem to have any actual ideas about what she DID want to do. No goals, no passions, no ambitions. Not even any hobbies apart from playing cards. Sophia also did a couple of things which were just plain stupid - after going alone to a gambling den wearing breeches and getting into a difficult situation she had to be rescued from, she went back AGAIN without taking any backup! It’s the literal definition of asking for trouble and annoyed me intensely. I also found the age gap a bit troubling - Sophia is 23, Philip 41 - as well as Philip’s dismissive attitude towards his previous mistresses (many) and illegitimate children (three). Maybe it was realistic for an unmarried lord of his age in the time period, but it definitely made him hard to like as a romance hero.
Neither character seemed to have much of a growth arc. Philip found what he wanted - a woman who could challenge him - and Sophia changed her mind about marriage because… Philip said he loved her, I guess? I didn’t hate this, but it really wasn’t particularly my cup of tea. I’ll give it three stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
Jilted at the altar for the second time, Sophia Worsley is absolutely done with living up to Society’s expectations. Turning up at her erstwhile groom’s wedding in breeches, she knows she’s marking herself forever unmarriageable - and that suits her just fine. Her rebellion attracts the attention of the jaded Earl of Marnmouth, though, and suddenly she finds herself running into the dratted man everywhere.
Philip needs to marry, but has vowed to choose only a woman who is capable of surprising him. The beauty wearing breeches into Almack’s definitely fits the bill, but she’s sworn off marriage.
I really liked Sophia’s rebellious streak and the fact that she had just gone past caring what anyone else thought of her. I was not so keen on the fact that she didn’t seem to have any plan for her life. At all. Other than ‘don’t want to get married’ she didn’t seem to have any actual ideas about what she DID want to do. No goals, no passions, no ambitions. Not even any hobbies apart from playing cards. Sophia also did a couple of things which were just plain stupid - after going alone to a gambling den wearing breeches and getting into a difficult situation she had to be rescued from, she went back AGAIN without taking any backup! It’s the literal definition of asking for trouble and annoyed me intensely. I also found the age gap a bit troubling - Sophia is 23, Philip 41 - as well as Philip’s dismissive attitude towards his previous mistresses (many) and illegitimate children (three). Maybe it was realistic for an unmarried lord of his age in the time period, but it definitely made him hard to like as a romance hero.
Neither character seemed to have much of a growth arc. Philip found what he wanted - a woman who could challenge him - and Sophia changed her mind about marriage because… Philip said he loved her, I guess? I didn’t hate this, but it really wasn’t particularly my cup of tea. I’ll give it three stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
May 10, 2021
With two very headstrong characters in her story, Emily EK Murdoch has brought everything into this gem of a tale.
Read full review in the 2021 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 15, 2021
Where to start. Firstly, I enjoyed the lead in chapter and loved that the heroine showed up at her ex fiance's reception wearing breeches to shock his family and friends because she had been jilted. Then it went downhill, so let's talk about her precious reputation. She was worried about dancing twice with Philip mid book, yet went prancing about town in her servant's trousers, went to a gaming hell (several times), went to Almacks in breeches and was accepted back another night wearing a dress, (I don't think so, she would have been cut), went about with no chaperone with her parent's blessing and it goes on. I really want my historical books to reflect the times as accurately as possible, because that's the reason we read them. Maybe with variance for adventure and dramatic situations, but those events should come as realistically as possible.
The writing is okay within itself, easy to read and fairly simple in style. The romance is 'blink and you miss it'. I felt no love/lust connection when Philip and Sophia were together in scenes. Not sure when this book is set. If it's regency era (which I assume), then they shouldn't be playing poker in the UK and if it's late 19th century, then they might be. It's book 10 in this series and right throughout there are numerous characters and arduous gossip about other relationships, how they happened, why, etc. None of this has any relevance to this story and is merely chapter fill and was very tedious to read and I skimmed most of it. I haven't read any of the other books in this series, so it meant nothing to me. I prefer a romance to star the H/h, not their peers.
The story;- bored older Earl Philip (41, we know this because it was mentioned numerous times - eye roll), spots young, but on the shelf, Sophie (23 and rebellious), wearing breeches and he's immediately captivated - as she's a 'rebel', obviously. Just the person to take him out of his blue funk and he wants her immediately. So after that, there's push pull, yes/no. Scenes where she meets him down the street, at a hell, her house, or at a ball. It goes on and on. There are copious amounts of internal dialogue throughout which is skim territory for me. Some is okay, but not pages and pages. The H/h keep zoning out during conversations with other people as they are thinking of each other.
Summery:- The story began as entertaining but was filled with irrelevant side character information. There's flat H/h character development, so I'm thinking the author has been weaving this through other books. Sophia comes across as a previous 'mean girl'. I was left with no clear picture of what the H/h looked like. Philip lusts after Sophia and she wants him, but as she's independent so doesn't want to be married. In English Regency/Victorian times unmarried and married women had no rights, no access to money or bank accounts. There are modern ideas, conversation and morals. Hot and cold relationship. Romance scenes that were lifeless. The book didn't flow. NB - it would have taken at least a couple of days to get to Bath via horse and carriage. A trunk being popped on a chair then carried under Sophia's arm?
I give it 2.5 stars for being just okay and I'm not sure if I would read anything more by this author. My thanks go to NetGalley and Dragonblade publishing for the eARC in return for my opinion.
The writing is okay within itself, easy to read and fairly simple in style. The romance is 'blink and you miss it'. I felt no love/lust connection when Philip and Sophia were together in scenes. Not sure when this book is set. If it's regency era (which I assume), then they shouldn't be playing poker in the UK and if it's late 19th century, then they might be. It's book 10 in this series and right throughout there are numerous characters and arduous gossip about other relationships, how they happened, why, etc. None of this has any relevance to this story and is merely chapter fill and was very tedious to read and I skimmed most of it. I haven't read any of the other books in this series, so it meant nothing to me. I prefer a romance to star the H/h, not their peers.
The story;- bored older Earl Philip (41, we know this because it was mentioned numerous times - eye roll), spots young, but on the shelf, Sophie (23 and rebellious), wearing breeches and he's immediately captivated - as she's a 'rebel', obviously. Just the person to take him out of his blue funk and he wants her immediately. So after that, there's push pull, yes/no. Scenes where she meets him down the street, at a hell, her house, or at a ball. It goes on and on. There are copious amounts of internal dialogue throughout which is skim territory for me. Some is okay, but not pages and pages. The H/h keep zoning out during conversations with other people as they are thinking of each other.
Summery:- The story began as entertaining but was filled with irrelevant side character information. There's flat H/h character development, so I'm thinking the author has been weaving this through other books. Sophia comes across as a previous 'mean girl'. I was left with no clear picture of what the H/h looked like. Philip lusts after Sophia and she wants him, but as she's independent so doesn't want to be married. In English Regency/Victorian times unmarried and married women had no rights, no access to money or bank accounts. There are modern ideas, conversation and morals. Hot and cold relationship. Romance scenes that were lifeless. The book didn't flow. NB - it would have taken at least a couple of days to get to Bath via horse and carriage. A trunk being popped on a chair then carried under Sophia's arm?
I give it 2.5 stars for being just okay and I'm not sure if I would read anything more by this author. My thanks go to NetGalley and Dragonblade publishing for the eARC in return for my opinion.
January 23, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
After being jilted at the altar twice, Miss Sophia Worsley has had enough. She doesn't care about the marriage mart any more, pleasing others in the ton, or being the perfect debutante. No, she'd rather show that she's over it all, and won't be marrying anyone. Turning up in breeches at her ex-fiancees wedding reception may have been a good start, but continuing to wear them at Almack's, and gambling, may be a step too far. When Philip Egerton, the Earl of Marnmouth, realises he wants more than a mistress, but won't marry until he finds someone who truly surprises him, he doesn't expect to meet that woman at Almack's. But he does, and Sophia is the only woman he can truly imagine being with. Can he convince her to try marriage, with him, and will she be able to trust him enough to go ahead with a wedding?
I honestly wasn't expecting there to be another Never the Bride book. Every time I go onto NetGalley, it seems there's a new one, and I can't help myself from requesting them. This time around, we have Sophia's story, who had quite a big role in the previous story. After trying to blackmail Jacob into going ahead with the marriage, she was publicly left at the altar, and embarrassed beyond belief. She's trying to save face by being so rebellious, and adamantly proclaiming she won't marry. I did feel sorry for her, and especially with her parents who treated her like she was only good enough for the connections she can get them through marriage. Philip was a hero I wasn't overly keen on. He did own the fact he had illegitimate children, and had had many mistresses, but I felt like he was too obsessed with Sophia and being with her. He did improve the further into the story we got, and I was ultimately happy with the conclusion and the progress of their romance. A nice addition to the Never the Bride series.
After being jilted at the altar twice, Miss Sophia Worsley has had enough. She doesn't care about the marriage mart any more, pleasing others in the ton, or being the perfect debutante. No, she'd rather show that she's over it all, and won't be marrying anyone. Turning up in breeches at her ex-fiancees wedding reception may have been a good start, but continuing to wear them at Almack's, and gambling, may be a step too far. When Philip Egerton, the Earl of Marnmouth, realises he wants more than a mistress, but won't marry until he finds someone who truly surprises him, he doesn't expect to meet that woman at Almack's. But he does, and Sophia is the only woman he can truly imagine being with. Can he convince her to try marriage, with him, and will she be able to trust him enough to go ahead with a wedding?
I honestly wasn't expecting there to be another Never the Bride book. Every time I go onto NetGalley, it seems there's a new one, and I can't help myself from requesting them. This time around, we have Sophia's story, who had quite a big role in the previous story. After trying to blackmail Jacob into going ahead with the marriage, she was publicly left at the altar, and embarrassed beyond belief. She's trying to save face by being so rebellious, and adamantly proclaiming she won't marry. I did feel sorry for her, and especially with her parents who treated her like she was only good enough for the connections she can get them through marriage. Philip was a hero I wasn't overly keen on. He did own the fact he had illegitimate children, and had had many mistresses, but I felt like he was too obsessed with Sophia and being with her. He did improve the further into the story we got, and I was ultimately happy with the conclusion and the progress of their romance. A nice addition to the Never the Bride series.
January 30, 2021
A true rebel. Yes that is what she would be! Sophia had been jilted twice. Yes twice and she was tired of behaving. So she showed up at Almack's in pants. Oh yes she go attention.... from none other than Philip, Earl of Marnmouth.
Phillip was bored with his life, everything about it. Then he met Miss Sophia Worsley at Almark's dressed in pants. yes.. she really got his attention! He wanted her for his paramour or his wife if she preferred. What? Oh yes, she was definately not boring...
But Sophia was determined to not get involved again with a man, but could she keep her resolve with Philip's attention?
A fun story with a cat and mouse game to see who will win! Characters from other stories show up that make it even more entertaining!
Phillip was bored with his life, everything about it. Then he met Miss Sophia Worsley at Almark's dressed in pants. yes.. she really got his attention! He wanted her for his paramour or his wife if she preferred. What? Oh yes, she was definately not boring...
But Sophia was determined to not get involved again with a man, but could she keep her resolve with Philip's attention?
A fun story with a cat and mouse game to see who will win! Characters from other stories show up that make it even more entertaining!
February 3, 2021
Unlikeable leads
I didn't think there was going to be a way to redeem Sophia, and there wasn't. She was not Jacob's victim, we all read how she behaved
Philip was not a great character either. He was nearly twenty years her senior. He was a manwhore with permanent consequences from that lifestyle.
I couldn't have cared less for their futures.
I didn't think there was going to be a way to redeem Sophia, and there wasn't. She was not Jacob's victim, we all read how she behaved
Philip was not a great character either. He was nearly twenty years her senior. He was a manwhore with permanent consequences from that lifestyle.
I couldn't have cared less for their futures.
January 31, 2021
Not impressed
The Earl was not in character at all ( as past books had him portrayed) and Sophia was definitely wronged, yes, but she herself was rather spiteful and had her share of flaws. For example, she would not have been jilted, literally, at the alter if she had let the man bow out long before then (thus making the whole matter even worse). Then she goes around playing poor me and being cruel to her parents and the man she supposedly loved? Sorry but this whole story was ridiculous
The Earl was not in character at all ( as past books had him portrayed) and Sophia was definitely wronged, yes, but she herself was rather spiteful and had her share of flaws. For example, she would not have been jilted, literally, at the alter if she had let the man bow out long before then (thus making the whole matter even worse). Then she goes around playing poor me and being cruel to her parents and the man she supposedly loved? Sorry but this whole story was ridiculous
November 28, 2021
Always the Rebel, Book 10 of the Never the Bride series, was about Miss Sophia Worsley, twice jilted bride, and Lord Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth.
Sophia was definitely a woman scorned...a woman of only 23 and already jilted twice over, and I didn't think she deserved her own story. What she did at Jacob and Elizabeth's wedding was unforgivable...even for a mere character in a book. Sophia acted as though she had been heartbroken when jilted, the second time, by Jason Beauvais, but she had made certain to assure him before they were even engaged that it was not a love match, that she didn't "do" romance. However, the author made clear, repeatedly, that Jason was "the gentleman who had taken her heart and so rudely stomped on it." But then immediately after the author made that statement, she followed it with, "Her heart had always been free". How could Jason have stomped on her heart if her heart had not been engaged? The author can't have it both ways. Sophia admitted that she had loved neither gentleman, that neither had ever touched her heart. So what right did she have to be bitter or angry with them for jilting her? She had only ever been seeking "Security, protection, respect, and a good income" from either of them.
Two years had passed since Philip had put aside Emma Tilbury, his mistress of five years. Bored with life, he was looking for something that offered him a challenge, someone who could surprise him out of his doldrums.
Sophia decided to rebel against her parents one more time, even after being scolded like a child and told not to embarrass them again...and chose to attend the ball at Almacks...in breeches. When she encountered Philip for the second time, she had a physical reaction that no man, including either of her former fiances, had ever managed to make her feel.
Side Note: The author constantly had mixed messages in this book. In one sentence "Harry" declared to Sophia that if Braeden had been in attendance that night, he wouldn't be able to keep his eyes in his head. Yet, a few sentences later, as "Harry" and Sophia rejoined the group "Harry" had just been standing in the midst of, Braeden was there, making a comment about Sophia's choice of attire. She also mentioned the Lymington twins' ages which, from a prior book, she tended to mix up. According to another book in the series, Olivia was the eldest of the twins, but Isabella was the one engaged to the Duke of Larnwick. However, in the rest of the series, both before this book and this one, she changed that to Isabella being the oldest of the twins. How is a reader supposed to discern the facts of the book they are reading if the author isn't aware of them herself?
There was a tremendous amount of humor in this book, mainly because the very idea that a young woman would be so rebellious as to flaunt the rules of Society so flagrantly was ridiculous. Sophia, more than being the Heroine of this story, was a laughable, implausible, and preposterous character, quite unrealistic even for a fictional creation.
I have to say, of all the books I've read by this author, I liked this one the least so far...and that's saying something as I've not enjoyed many in this particular series. Not only was the main male character proud of the ditching of his mistress of five years, but he also boasted of having "at least three children on the wrong side of the blanket". Why would anyone think he'd make a great Hero of a love story? Out of most of the books I've read in this genre, the Hero of the story had at least enough integrity and respect for women to NOT be that much of a libertine to be that careless with the women they bedded. Those characters generally were the deceased fathers of the Hero of the stories. This did not endear me to this particular character...at all. To be honest, no two selfish, self-centered, and obnoxious characters ever suited each other better. They would make for a horrible marriage, each trying to outdo the other at every turn.
It was amazing how the author managed to make such subtle changes to both the main characters so that they ended up being liked by the reader by the time the end of the story came about. The changes were definitely needed, for they were both detestable people in the beginning. Though they weren't completely redeemed, there was enough of an attitude adjustment that they were no longer deplorable. However, the book still was a drag and definitely not even worthy of a four-star rating.
Sophia was definitely a woman scorned...a woman of only 23 and already jilted twice over, and I didn't think she deserved her own story. What she did at Jacob and Elizabeth's wedding was unforgivable...even for a mere character in a book. Sophia acted as though she had been heartbroken when jilted, the second time, by Jason Beauvais, but she had made certain to assure him before they were even engaged that it was not a love match, that she didn't "do" romance. However, the author made clear, repeatedly, that Jason was "the gentleman who had taken her heart and so rudely stomped on it." But then immediately after the author made that statement, she followed it with, "Her heart had always been free". How could Jason have stomped on her heart if her heart had not been engaged? The author can't have it both ways. Sophia admitted that she had loved neither gentleman, that neither had ever touched her heart. So what right did she have to be bitter or angry with them for jilting her? She had only ever been seeking "Security, protection, respect, and a good income" from either of them.
Two years had passed since Philip had put aside Emma Tilbury, his mistress of five years. Bored with life, he was looking for something that offered him a challenge, someone who could surprise him out of his doldrums.
Sophia decided to rebel against her parents one more time, even after being scolded like a child and told not to embarrass them again...and chose to attend the ball at Almacks...in breeches. When she encountered Philip for the second time, she had a physical reaction that no man, including either of her former fiances, had ever managed to make her feel.
Side Note: The author constantly had mixed messages in this book. In one sentence "Harry" declared to Sophia that if Braeden had been in attendance that night, he wouldn't be able to keep his eyes in his head. Yet, a few sentences later, as "Harry" and Sophia rejoined the group "Harry" had just been standing in the midst of, Braeden was there, making a comment about Sophia's choice of attire. She also mentioned the Lymington twins' ages which, from a prior book, she tended to mix up. According to another book in the series, Olivia was the eldest of the twins, but Isabella was the one engaged to the Duke of Larnwick. However, in the rest of the series, both before this book and this one, she changed that to Isabella being the oldest of the twins. How is a reader supposed to discern the facts of the book they are reading if the author isn't aware of them herself?
There was a tremendous amount of humor in this book, mainly because the very idea that a young woman would be so rebellious as to flaunt the rules of Society so flagrantly was ridiculous. Sophia, more than being the Heroine of this story, was a laughable, implausible, and preposterous character, quite unrealistic even for a fictional creation.
I have to say, of all the books I've read by this author, I liked this one the least so far...and that's saying something as I've not enjoyed many in this particular series. Not only was the main male character proud of the ditching of his mistress of five years, but he also boasted of having "at least three children on the wrong side of the blanket". Why would anyone think he'd make a great Hero of a love story? Out of most of the books I've read in this genre, the Hero of the story had at least enough integrity and respect for women to NOT be that much of a libertine to be that careless with the women they bedded. Those characters generally were the deceased fathers of the Hero of the stories. This did not endear me to this particular character...at all. To be honest, no two selfish, self-centered, and obnoxious characters ever suited each other better. They would make for a horrible marriage, each trying to outdo the other at every turn.
It was amazing how the author managed to make such subtle changes to both the main characters so that they ended up being liked by the reader by the time the end of the story came about. The changes were definitely needed, for they were both detestable people in the beginning. Though they weren't completely redeemed, there was enough of an attitude adjustment that they were no longer deplorable. However, the book still was a drag and definitely not even worthy of a four-star rating.
April 22, 2021
The books of this series can be read alone but there are a lot of recurring characters who have an obviously interconnected backstory. The protagonists of one book meet minor characters and may think of them in less flattering terms, but those annoying or boring minor characters may become the heroes and heroines of other books in the series. For instance, the heroine from this book was jilted by the hero of Always a Widow, the hero from this book jilted a woman who stars in Always a Mistress, somebody who is a boring guest here has a secret life in yet another book. We see already happily married couples from previous books, but some of the romances in various books are going on simultaneously so you may read partial snippets of conversations that the current protagonist is rather inattentive to but which were important in one of the other books. I guess the moral of the story is, if you judge people by superficial appearances or short contacts you might not see to their heart and you will like them better if you understand their motives.
These interconnections might be charming if you're familiar with the rest of the series and a distraction if reading a random book from the middle of the series with no knowledge about the other books. I was reading Always the Rebel close to reading Always the Mistress and while you can read each book on their own there's definitely a lot of overlap that you might understand better if you read both.
Always the Rebel is quite pleasant and readable but it took me some time to connect with the characters. Sophia got jilted twice, and now she's decided doesn't want to get married and she doesn't care about the opinions of society any more so she wears breeches, visits gambling dens, goes out on her own unchaperoned. This feels like she wants to do improper things for the sake of breaking the rules and not because it's her dream and is going to make her life better. I was hoping for her to find some sort of satisfaction or a goal beyond not marrying but it was rather difficult for a woman in her position.
The hero Philip rescues her from a dangerous situation that could have turned into a sexual assault. He thinks Sophia is interesting because she is unconventional and brave and does what she wants but mostly I just think he lusts after seeing her curves in breeches. He is in his forties and his previous sexual history includes the aforementioned jilted mistress and several illegitimate children with several other women that he doesn't care about. They shrug this away saying these things happen and I'm sure they're right, it happened pretty regularly back before birth control. I just don't think deadbeat dads are romantic, and it was more of a struggle to see him as an ideal lover.
I feel like this was a three star book on its own but read as a part of the series I gave it four stars because all the different perspectives to the same events appeal to me a great deal.
I got a digital review copy from Netgalley and I'm leaving a voluntary, honest review.
These interconnections might be charming if you're familiar with the rest of the series and a distraction if reading a random book from the middle of the series with no knowledge about the other books. I was reading Always the Rebel close to reading Always the Mistress and while you can read each book on their own there's definitely a lot of overlap that you might understand better if you read both.
Always the Rebel is quite pleasant and readable but it took me some time to connect with the characters. Sophia got jilted twice, and now she's decided doesn't want to get married and she doesn't care about the opinions of society any more so she wears breeches, visits gambling dens, goes out on her own unchaperoned. This feels like she wants to do improper things for the sake of breaking the rules and not because it's her dream and is going to make her life better. I was hoping for her to find some sort of satisfaction or a goal beyond not marrying but it was rather difficult for a woman in her position.
The hero Philip rescues her from a dangerous situation that could have turned into a sexual assault. He thinks Sophia is interesting because she is unconventional and brave and does what she wants but mostly I just think he lusts after seeing her curves in breeches. He is in his forties and his previous sexual history includes the aforementioned jilted mistress and several illegitimate children with several other women that he doesn't care about. They shrug this away saying these things happen and I'm sure they're right, it happened pretty regularly back before birth control. I just don't think deadbeat dads are romantic, and it was more of a struggle to see him as an ideal lover.
I feel like this was a three star book on its own but read as a part of the series I gave it four stars because all the different perspectives to the same events appeal to me a great deal.
I got a digital review copy from Netgalley and I'm leaving a voluntary, honest review.
February 4, 2021
I received an e-ARC copy from the publisher Net Galley for an honest review.
Miss Sophia Worsley is 23 and has been betrothed and jilted twice, most recently in the middle of the ceremony, her almost-husband walked away, grabbed the woman he loved and married her instead. Sophia is now sick and tired of living her life on the bon ton's terms and shows up at her ex-fiancé’s wedding reception in breeches. She then starts attended Almack’s in breeches and going to private gambling houses.
Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth, is 41 and finding life to be increasingly dull. He’s still unmarried, so invitations are few and far between as Mama’s don’t want to waste their time, and his friends are all married or soon to be. He wants a woman in his life, but he wants someone interesting who will surprise him.
How fortunate he keeps running into Miss Sophia Worsley in her breeches, and she refuses to be his mistress or wife, yet keeps giving him kisses on the street in the middle of the night.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
I will admit that I haven’t read the other books in this series, but I’m a sucker for a Regency novel. I always feel like any historical romance series book should still stand on its own. Therefore, I felt the characters were not well drawn and could be somewhat two-dimensional, especially Philip.
Some plot points that aren’t fully fleshed out: we never got the full blackmail story re: her Sophia’s second engagement, and I didn’t understand why Philip dumped his mistress. He didn’t seem too keen to get married and have heirs; he just seemed bored. Miss Emma Tilbury was just a strange device to get the two protagonists to see sense. I think I’d rather if It had been one of Sophia’s friends, but she was always so isolated.
Overall, the book was full of sexy fun. I enjoyed the playfulness between the two and the infatuation, spontaneity and elopement to Gretna Green. I can’t blame the girl, after two failed engagements, she needed a wedding! 3.75⭐️
Miss Sophia Worsley is 23 and has been betrothed and jilted twice, most recently in the middle of the ceremony, her almost-husband walked away, grabbed the woman he loved and married her instead. Sophia is now sick and tired of living her life on the bon ton's terms and shows up at her ex-fiancé’s wedding reception in breeches. She then starts attended Almack’s in breeches and going to private gambling houses.
Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth, is 41 and finding life to be increasingly dull. He’s still unmarried, so invitations are few and far between as Mama’s don’t want to waste their time, and his friends are all married or soon to be. He wants a woman in his life, but he wants someone interesting who will surprise him.
How fortunate he keeps running into Miss Sophia Worsley in her breeches, and she refuses to be his mistress or wife, yet keeps giving him kisses on the street in the middle of the night.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
I will admit that I haven’t read the other books in this series, but I’m a sucker for a Regency novel. I always feel like any historical romance series book should still stand on its own. Therefore, I felt the characters were not well drawn and could be somewhat two-dimensional, especially Philip.
Some plot points that aren’t fully fleshed out: we never got the full blackmail story re: her Sophia’s second engagement, and I didn’t understand why Philip dumped his mistress. He didn’t seem too keen to get married and have heirs; he just seemed bored. Miss Emma Tilbury was just a strange device to get the two protagonists to see sense. I think I’d rather if It had been one of Sophia’s friends, but she was always so isolated.
Overall, the book was full of sexy fun. I enjoyed the playfulness between the two and the infatuation, spontaneity and elopement to Gretna Green. I can’t blame the girl, after two failed engagements, she needed a wedding! 3.75⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2021
Always the Rebel by Emily EK Murdoch is another charming entry in her Never the Bride series. Sophia Worsley has been jilted twice...at the church, no less. She is done with marriage; done with men. She decides to assert her independence by wearing men's clothing to the wedding reception of one of her jilters: Lenskyn House was the perfect place to be seen. Yes, indeed. They were shocked. Sophia was reveling in it. Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth was forty years old and unmarried. He was determined to stay that way until he met a woman who surprised him. He was bored: bored with his friends, bored with the women he met, and bored with his life. He had broken off with his mistress, Emma Tilbury because he was bored with her, too. She wanted him to marry her. It could not happen. Next Sophia went to Almacks and then to a notorious gambling hell. It was there she met her match, and was rescued, although she insisted she didn't need to be, by the Earl of Marnmouth. It had begun.
This is an amazing story of two people who were both stubborn and seemed to want to prove that he/she was the most stubborn. Characters from the other novels are present, mostly to add color: most notably the Lymington sisters. Some of the unmarried friends of Marnmouth also make appearances. It is a thoroughly entertaining novel as both come to grips with the fact that they are in love. Both think they would be happy with merely a physical relationship but it becomes clear to each that that will not work. Sophia's parents were so overcome with joy that Sophia had attracted an earl that they were caricatures of themselves. They were very entertaining. I liked it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Always the Rebel by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All opinions contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #alwaystherebel
This is an amazing story of two people who were both stubborn and seemed to want to prove that he/she was the most stubborn. Characters from the other novels are present, mostly to add color: most notably the Lymington sisters. Some of the unmarried friends of Marnmouth also make appearances. It is a thoroughly entertaining novel as both come to grips with the fact that they are in love. Both think they would be happy with merely a physical relationship but it becomes clear to each that that will not work. Sophia's parents were so overcome with joy that Sophia had attracted an earl that they were caricatures of themselves. They were very entertaining. I liked it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Always the Rebel by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All opinions contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #alwaystherebel
January 28, 2021
Having met Miss Sophia Worsley in previous books in this series, I always thought she got a raw deal. I was delighted, therefore, to read her story. Having been jilted at the altar not once, but twice, Sophia decides that if the ton is going to gossip about her, she would ensure that it is on her own terms. She certainly gets their attention and more when she enters Almack's wearing a pair of men's breeches. Philip Egerton, the Earl of Marnmouth, on the other hand, is bored. He is tired of the usual amusements of the season, he's tired of his mistress and he's tired of the tittering misses trying to attract his attention. All he wants is a woman who is interesting. Finding Sophia in a gambling hell wearing breeches certainly takes care of that requirement. For the first time, Philip finds himself on the receiving end of apathy and lack of attention to his advances. The more he pursues Sophia, the more she distances herself from him. I thoroughly enjoyed this entertaining Regency romance and loved the main characters. Philip is the hero any woman would want as he sees beyond the trimmings and fluff of society, to the woman behind the attire. Sophia is an example to women everywhere, and although her methods may have been somewhat extreme, she becomes the object of desire instead of scorn. I received a copy of this book as a gift from Dragonblade Publishers and NetGalley and this is my hones and voluntary review.
February 23, 2021
Rebel to be seen
Sophia was a complicated person as all her life was defined by marriage being engage and then married! Two engagements broken one at the altar just months ago made her rebellious! Some of it is farfetched
Pants to Almacks then allowed back
Pants to a mens gambling club rescued both times after starting a brawl that could have led to rape or murder
The Earl of Marnmouth was bored until this lady showing up at her ex fiance wedding reception in trousers sat down at the gambling table.
Sophia saw him but his action were odd because he turned away! She acted so desperate to marry she resorted to extremely unpleasant methods! I was starting to think she was a little unhinged! Her parents wanted her to marry and marry well! But she had control of the second engagement lasting a whole year???? She could have had a conversation and her ex was clearly in love if a bit of a wimp!!
Sophia should have been happy about Phillip in some ways she pursued him (Bath) and when he involved her parents she was angry?? She really didn't know what she wanted until a conversation with an ex mistress to convince her?? Really? Phillip was over 40 so he should have known better his actions....well were better than hers that's for sure! A rebel not so much as immature! Happiness knocked on her door and she slams it on her foot!!!
Sophia was a complicated person as all her life was defined by marriage being engage and then married! Two engagements broken one at the altar just months ago made her rebellious! Some of it is farfetched
Pants to Almacks then allowed back
Pants to a mens gambling club rescued both times after starting a brawl that could have led to rape or murder
The Earl of Marnmouth was bored until this lady showing up at her ex fiance wedding reception in trousers sat down at the gambling table.
Sophia saw him but his action were odd because he turned away! She acted so desperate to marry she resorted to extremely unpleasant methods! I was starting to think she was a little unhinged! Her parents wanted her to marry and marry well! But she had control of the second engagement lasting a whole year???? She could have had a conversation and her ex was clearly in love if a bit of a wimp!!
Sophia should have been happy about Phillip in some ways she pursued him (Bath) and when he involved her parents she was angry?? She really didn't know what she wanted until a conversation with an ex mistress to convince her?? Really? Phillip was over 40 so he should have known better his actions....well were better than hers that's for sure! A rebel not so much as immature! Happiness knocked on her door and she slams it on her foot!!!
January 17, 2025
Sophie gets her ay, after being abandoned at the alter again (even she did sort of deserve it blackmailing her potential groom) Sophie has to decided to hell with men and marriage and being a well behaved daughter. So she revels and goes to gambling clubs and promptly falls for the Earl of Marnmouth.
Phillies of Marnmouth, is bored of society and wants something more, he enjoys evenings with his friends, but he wants more, something different. Then he's introduced to Sophie and a flicker of interest piques him, maybe he's found his someone different.
I quite liked Philip and all his friends we've met them through the series. Sophie irritates the hell out of me, I want to shake her or tell her to put her head in straight.
Far too much rising from Bath to London and back, I lost track of who and where. In the epilogue says they're in London for the wedding reception, but also says he surprised so many travelled north.... From where?
I didn't like that Jacob from the previous book was written off as a young fool in this one.
Duke of Larnwick needs to escape the Whole family he's due to.marry into and find someone normal, and poor Braedon need his match soon please
Phillies of Marnmouth, is bored of society and wants something more, he enjoys evenings with his friends, but he wants more, something different. Then he's introduced to Sophie and a flicker of interest piques him, maybe he's found his someone different.
I quite liked Philip and all his friends we've met them through the series. Sophie irritates the hell out of me, I want to shake her or tell her to put her head in straight.
Far too much rising from Bath to London and back, I lost track of who and where. In the epilogue says they're in London for the wedding reception, but also says he surprised so many travelled north.... From where?
I didn't like that Jacob from the previous book was written off as a young fool in this one.
Duke of Larnwick needs to escape the Whole family he's due to.marry into and find someone normal, and poor Braedon need his match soon please
July 12, 2022
Phillip & Sophia. He is 41 and has 3 illegitimate daughters with 2 baby mamas and a former mistress for at least 5 years. But he tired of his mistress and cut her loose more than 2 years prior. She was left at the altar twice and swore off marriage all together. Turning rebellious (wearing pants to society events, gambling in random halls, playing cards with gentlemen) he was attracted to her and offered to keep her as a mistress which she declined. Instead playing hard to get with a seasoned man used to getting whatever he wants. After a whirlwind relationship where she sleeps with him, he decides he wants to marry her and after a while, finally tells her that he loves her. So they haul off to Gretna Green to elope (she's done with weddings). While I enjoyed the book, I took away a star because I have no doubt that this marriage will be a disaster and the groom isn't likable. He gets bored easily and she will be no different, wife or not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2021
Always the rebel is book 10 in the Never the Bride series. But please don't let that stop you from reading it if you haven't read the others. All books work great by on their own and don't need to be read in order. But this is just another great book in one of my favorite historical romance series. Pick it up today, you won't be able to put it down!
Miss Sophia Worsley has been jilted TWICE and at the ripe age of 23, has decided she is done trying to get married. She starts wearing breeches, and even attending Almack's. This catches the attention of our hero, Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth, who at the age of 42, is finally ready to marry, if only to escape the boredom. But when he finds Sophie he is instantly intrigued but she wants nothing to do with him. It was fun to see their banter and cat/mouse type of game to be played.
Miss Sophia Worsley has been jilted TWICE and at the ripe age of 23, has decided she is done trying to get married. She starts wearing breeches, and even attending Almack's. This catches the attention of our hero, Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth, who at the age of 42, is finally ready to marry, if only to escape the boredom. But when he finds Sophie he is instantly intrigued but she wants nothing to do with him. It was fun to see their banter and cat/mouse type of game to be played.
April 18, 2026
The story started out so good. The heroine (Sophie) got jilted twice and is now on this rebellious streak with a “I don’t give a damn attitude”. I enjoyed reading her mis behavior because it made sense. We have the Hero (Phillip) who is 41yrs and is basically bored with life. Had a mistress for 7 yrs but dump her two years ago. He fell hard for Sophie and was acting like a puppy in love. She on the other hand was a little rough because of her past. I like the story until Phillip spoke to her parents about Marriage. Sophie became an asshole and was just cruel and heartless. At that moment Phillip to me deserved someone better and mature. She apparently was bipolar bc she flipped her switch real quick and all of a sudden she threw her some at him and basically demanded to be marriage okay 🙄🙄
January 22, 2021
I was provided an e-ARC by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sophia Worsley is done behaving the way society expects her to, rule-following may have gotten her two financés but no wedding ring. She causes scandal as Sophia starts wearing breeches to society events and instead of scaring off every last man in London her behavior attracts Philip Egerton, the Earl of Marnmouth.
The Earl was honestly the highlight of the book for me, he was honest and kind. I would've loved to get to know him even further!
Sadly I had problems connecting to Sophia for most of the story. It was frustrating at times to be stuck in her thoughts with her decisions swinging from one side to the other all while she seemingly had not end goal to her actions.
Sophia Worsley is done behaving the way society expects her to, rule-following may have gotten her two financés but no wedding ring. She causes scandal as Sophia starts wearing breeches to society events and instead of scaring off every last man in London her behavior attracts Philip Egerton, the Earl of Marnmouth.
The Earl was honestly the highlight of the book for me, he was honest and kind. I would've loved to get to know him even further!
Sadly I had problems connecting to Sophia for most of the story. It was frustrating at times to be stuck in her thoughts with her decisions swinging from one side to the other all while she seemingly had not end goal to her actions.
January 24, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
It was really hard for me to connect with Sophie's narrative. It felt wishy-washy in so many spots and rambling throughout. She was interested but her relationship with Phillip felt hollow throughout. I think maybe one of the issues is that I hadn't read any of the other books in the series so I was slightly lost. Their backgrounds were given but not as in-depth as I needed to fully "get" their characters and why they were the way they are. It was fun but I feel like I lost out just due to not having read many of the other books. I think I would like to go back and read the series from the beginning. If I do, I am sure I will come back and revise this review!
It was really hard for me to connect with Sophie's narrative. It felt wishy-washy in so many spots and rambling throughout. She was interested but her relationship with Phillip felt hollow throughout. I think maybe one of the issues is that I hadn't read any of the other books in the series so I was slightly lost. Their backgrounds were given but not as in-depth as I needed to fully "get" their characters and why they were the way they are. It was fun but I feel like I lost out just due to not having read many of the other books. I think I would like to go back and read the series from the beginning. If I do, I am sure I will come back and revise this review!
February 1, 2021
Sophia has been left at the alter twice. What is a girl to do? Wear breeches to her second betroth’s wedding reception!!! Living on the edge is now Sophia’s life on the edge of society. What more does she have to lose? Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth has always lived life for his own pleasure. One mistress after the other and three illegitimate daughters could leave something to desire. Could he be exactly what Sophia is NOT looking for? Could she be exactly what has been missing in Philip’s life? “But Sophia was not any woman. She was a spark in the darkness of society.” I really enjoyed having an older H who is sure of what he wants in his life now. Though he hasn’t led the most tame life he appreciates Sophia for herself. Incredibly great read.
February 27, 2023
This is a very different storyline of a woman jilted not once, but twice at the altar. Deciding to forget rules, she becomes a rebel, much to the heartache for her parents and the scandal of the ton. Phillip, the Earl, is tired and bored and wants to find someone to entice and bring joy into his life. When they find each other, it is a ride like no other. I loved how Sophia crashes her intended’s wedding party to prove she didn’t care and how Phillip chased her down. I loved how the author was so descriptive of Sophia’s feeling and her determination to do life her way after trying to be obedient to everyone else and getting nothing but heartache as a reward. I truly enjoyed this original story and can’t wait to read more of the series.
January 29, 2021
Miss Sophia Worsley is swearing off men. She has been jilted twice. That's more than any woman should have to face. If everyone is talking about her anyway she might as well do something truely outrageous.
Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth is jaded and bored man. Nothing seems to interest him anymore. He hasn't even bothered with having a mistress lately.
Our heroine is fabulous and fearless. I did find myself thinking " you go girl " .
I didn't really like the hero, he is so thoughtless, and full of his own importance.
This story is really good fun and shows just how ridiculous some of society's rules were.
Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth is jaded and bored man. Nothing seems to interest him anymore. He hasn't even bothered with having a mistress lately.
Our heroine is fabulous and fearless. I did find myself thinking " you go girl " .
I didn't really like the hero, he is so thoughtless, and full of his own importance.
This story is really good fun and shows just how ridiculous some of society's rules were.
February 2, 2021
Miss Sophia Worsley has two broken engagement and ever since she was left standing at the wedding alter she’s sworn off men and marriage. She’ll live life her way and on her terms. Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth has been bored with life that is until he sees Lady Sophie and she doesn’t fall at his feet like every other woman. I love their witty banter especially when she beats him are cards and then just walks away, never wanting anything to do with him. Philip won’t take no for an answer and she becomes quite the challenge as he pursues her. I have voluntarily read and reviewed these excellent story filled with romance.
February 14, 2021
Always the Rebel was a different kind of story. Our heroine Sophia, was tired of being engaged, and never married. She wanted to break out of her shell, and wanted to be different from what she had always been. So she begins doing very daring things for a young lady. While wearing breeches, instead of a gown, she meets Phillip, who is tired of the usual ladies there are to choose from. Only problem is, while he is smitten with her, she has sworn off marriage and men in general. He has a challenge ahead of him, for certain. An interesting book, but not my favorite. It has a bit more detail to the romantic love scenes, than what I prefer.
April 29, 2025
After being abandoned at the altar twice will Sophia manage to get wedded this time?
Sophia Worsley has been abandoned at the altar twice! Little wonder she is less than enamoured about marrying.
Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth has just finished with his mistress, he has told her he will only marry a woman his surprises him.
He sees Sophia enter Almacks dressed in breeches! Then sees her again in a notorious gaming hell!
Gradually the two of them realise their love for each other.
There are still a number of bumps in there road to a happy ending, but eventually they get tings sorted out.
Sophia Worsley has been abandoned at the altar twice! Little wonder she is less than enamoured about marrying.
Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth has just finished with his mistress, he has told her he will only marry a woman his surprises him.
He sees Sophia enter Almacks dressed in breeches! Then sees her again in a notorious gaming hell!
Gradually the two of them realise their love for each other.
There are still a number of bumps in there road to a happy ending, but eventually they get tings sorted out.
January 31, 2021
Twice jilted, Sophia Worsley is done with engagements, weddings, and men. She has decided to rebel, actually she’s having a very visible tantrum. She has decided to forego fashion and wear breeches, everywhere. This, of course, attracts attention. One of those who take notice of her is Philip Egerton, Earl of Marnmouth. Philip is an unrepentant rogue, and quite honest about it. At forty, he has become bored with just about everything, until he sees a woman in breeches win a card game in a rather disreputable gambling house. His interest is peaked, but hers is not. Is Philip up to the challenge? Can he win the lady’s heart?
This is a fun story with loveable characters. Philip and Sophia are great together and fun to watch. The banter is snarky and the chemistry between these two is strong. Braedon and Larnwick, and Sophia’s parents are beyond entertaining. I enjoyed and recommend this wonderful addition to the Never the Bride series.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
This is a fun story with loveable characters. Philip and Sophia are great together and fun to watch. The banter is snarky and the chemistry between these two is strong. Braedon and Larnwick, and Sophia’s parents are beyond entertaining. I enjoyed and recommend this wonderful addition to the Never the Bride series.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
January 28, 2021
After being left at the alter two different times, Miss Sophia Worsley, knew she would never try again. Men were not worth the time of day or the waste of time. She even wore breeches at Almack’s and that should have ruined her. Philip Egerton, the Earl of Marnmouth, is completely bored with his life. He feels that there are no women for him until he meets Sophia. I enjoyed reading this book and felt that the characters were portrayed as the author wanted. Both were opposite and sometimes they attract each other. But the attraction was difficult and made the book worth reading.
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