My life has always been a game for a foolish circus of clowns.
A chance encounter brings forth hope of putting a stop to my endless cycle on the merry-go-round. Until he says the one thing I know I should heed, but can’t.
“Do me a favor, Margaret, stay away from men like me, we live two different lives…” “In two different worlds,” I finished for him. Truer words have never been spoken.
However, the magnetic pull is too hard to deny. Behind his grey eyes lies something new, something exciting… something dangerous. And I am in desperate need of a change. I'm slowly dying inside from the mask I must wear in order to exude perfection. I'm tired of all the fake smiles on the faces of false friends. I'm tired of all society's golden rules, and I am done with being used for someone else's gain.
Something casual is all I ask of him, until my heart demands more.
The stakes are high, and the scandal could ruin me… But a chance at true happiness for once in my life, makes Marcus worth the risk.
This is Margaret's story. A Stern's High Society Duet is the continuation of Margaret and Cherry from A Stern's Family Saga.
Monique Orgeron is a Contemporary Romance w/ suspense author. Stern Family Saga
Written by Monique Orgeron’s eldest, most beautiful, and intelligent daughter. (My sister is going to hate this part.) My mom happens to be the most caring, loving, and stubborn person I know, well anyone knows. She gives 100% percent of herself to everyone and has given up so much of herself for my sister and I. For twenty-one years she has poured her heart and soul into making sure we know that we are loved and that we can do anything we put our minds too, but it was about time she figured that out about herself. Up until this year I hadn’t seen my mom do anything for only her, but this book has allowed her to travel the world through the pages of a book, make new friends, and feel the joy of doing something exciting. There is a new light behind her eyes and it is just making me feel more joy than she can ever imagine. While she might be annoying most of the time, I am so thrilled that she is finally allowing herself to grow as a person and not spend all of her energy on her family. It has been a long journey of self-discovery for my mom; she has gone from domestic supermom to domestic goddess throughout the process of writing. We are so very excited and proud of you! I love you as big as the world. -Bria and Tony
At first for all of you who loves mafia romances, The Stern Family Saga is definitely a must-read series for you. This saga is an extremely gripping, exciting and suspenseful dark mafia romance. A story about power and strength games of the most dangerous mafia organization in the world and a badass women that have a huge if not main role in this fascinating world. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This book is about Margaret, the society Lady who has a lot of power over the world of rich and powerful people though her heritage. I didn't like her in the other books, even though she only played a secondary character, and was described as being quite snobbish and stuck up. Apparently that's how it is when you judge people without knowledge of their life history.
This is her heartbreaking poor rich girl story and let's just say it's an exciting, unpredictable, emotional and yes, partly extrem funny story. I read it in one go and loved every single second of it.
Margaret is a sophisticated society Lady who follows all the rules of a high society to a T her whole life, until the rules of her family nearly suffocated her and cost her the life of her daughter. It's a book about a woman who, despite her age and "ridiculous" upbringing, still managed to be a rebel and to radically change her approach to life. One of the reasons I love this book so much is, that it's about adults who should have their lives together, but it doesn't seem like they're much different from teenagers 😂
Margarete's newly discovered freedom and her first love story is sometimes too much for her snobby personality, which provokes many hilarious moments.
Oh! Did I already tell you that her first love is the president of an outlaw biker MC? 🤭
This is a damn exciting, gripping and scorching hot story 🔥🔥🔥 Gosh! I love this book ❤️
This book can be read as a standalone, but I really recommend reading the whole series. It's one of the best dark mafia romances I've ever read 🖤🖤🖤
Just when I think Monique has written the best book I have ever read she releases a new book and it becomes my new favorite. Margaret and Marcus the most unlikely couple on the planet. Margaret has her high society lifestyle where appearances and status are everything in her world and she is known for her strength. She is becoming tired of being used and of all of the fake people she knows and is looking for a change in her life. Marcus has always intrigued me with him being the President of a motorcycle club and his mysterious life. But there is something about Margaret that intrigues him. They are definately opposites but that doesn't stop them. You will love Margaret's with and no nonsense attitude and will laugh and cry with her, then totally be cheering her on as she fights for the people she loves no matter what. Then your heart will break for Marcus at the events that change his life. 5 starts for this book is not enough and I can't wait for everyone to read this book. Amazing is all I can say..
I liked this book. I was expecting this to be a duet with Mags and Marcus so I'm a little dissapointed that the next book is Cherry and Richard. I wanted more time with Mags and Marcus making a life together.
Even though I enjoyed this book and I know it was a redemption arc for Margaret, I felt like she was a pretty shitty friend.
Love love love this book!! Again Monique delivers a first class story! The story will reduce you to tears, make you laugh out loud and make you wish you had a BBF like cherry! It’s a must read! And a great addition to the continuing story’s of the stern saga.
Margaret is an upper class woman with plenty of social influence. An endorsement from her means everything in the social circles that count.
Underneath all that poise and etiquette is a lonely woman never sure if she is liked for herself or what knowing her can do for a person.
Margaret in previous books has not be portrayed as a warm character, she knows she's entitled but money and possessions aren't everything. What comes to light is how her airs and graces are just a smoke screen because of previous deepseated hurt, betrayals and insecurities she is wary of others.
Along comes a silver fox hot MC president and KeRpOW!!!! Opposites most definitely do attract a heady mix of raw with cultured, leather with fox fur, oil and lace.
Marcus perfectly strips away the layers that have over time bound Margaret tight to the social mores of the deep South.
A passionate, emotional read with just the right amount of humour. It was nice to read about two mature characters navigating their way to their unique HEA.
We finally got to see Margaret as more than just a one dimensional character and realise that she had just the right amount of impulsive cray cray to put her rightfully next to Catherine Stern.
Marcus has his queen and Margaret has a chance to live unshackled by what society expects.
Yalllllll Orgeron out did herself on this one!! EPIC READ! Opposites attract, and older couple second chance at love. HEA and just a little bit of angst.
This story is a complex start to Margret a strong, less likable character that we've misjudged in previous books. Interesting and unexpected I liked getting inside her life, this story has kept me intrigued and invested in seeing how she's became who she is. Each book gets better and better.
Margaret is uber-wealthy and classy. She runs a foundation and is an excellent fund-raiser, with the wardrobe, shoes, purses, and minks to match. (That mink scene was funny!) She’s been attracted to Marcus for a while, but her reputation has stopped her from doing anything about it. Marcus, who is a businessman at times, is also the president of a motorcycle club, and unafraid to get his hands dirty fighting or taking care of things for the Stern Family. This book is an offshoot of the Stern Family saga (highly recommend!), and lets readers get to know both Margaret and Marcus better. Both protagonists have popped up in prior books, so both characters are known to readers of Ms. Orgeron’s books. In this story, we get to see Monique Orgeron use her devious and creative mind to figure out how to bring the wealthy socialite together with the MC President… This would be a daunting stretch for most writers, but it is one that Ms. Orgeron fulfills believably. Margaret has wasted her life doing everything that is expected of her. She’s ready to rebel and finally do something that she really wants to do, and Marcus is the guy she wants to do it with! Naturally, there are a few stumbles along the way, but it does have an HEA ending.
There is tension in this book. At times, it is really high! The pacing is moderate to fast for most of the book. The story moves along and there is always a new challenge to face and overcome. Sometimes it comes from outside the MC, and other times it comes from Margaret and her choices. At first, Marcus is Margaret’s dirty little secret. When he finds out about that, he gets a bit upset. There are some funny scenes, some awkward scenes, and some steamy scenes sprinkled throughout the book. Margaret and Marcus are each struggling with certain things, but when they are together and connecting, it’s obvious that they belong together, despite the obvious differences in their lifestyles.
This is a fun read. Please read the Stern Family Saga first, as it will flow so much smoother for readers and it will make more sense. Nevertheless, this book is a delight from start to finish. These protagonists are likeable and they each have a strong sense of family. That value comes through in everything that they do for others and for themselves. They are loyal and they feel things deeply. This book has heart and will evoke multiple emotions in the reader. Plus, it’s just plain fun to read! Well done, Ms. Orgeron!!
This is not the first book I've read by Monique Orgeron. I am familiar with her writing, yet she throws me for a loop every time.
I first met Monique at a mutual friend's house. I remember the converstation starting out about books and then telling me she is an author. In all honesty I thought, "Oh great now I'm gonna have to read this ladies' book." That was in 2018. Now I'm hooked.
Her books aren't Sweet Magnolia's or Gilmore Girls (even though those are some of my faves!). They are spicy... and I do mean Slam Your Mama yellow can spicy (Louisiana reference).
This isn't a Stern Family focused book, but they are mentioned. Margaret is as you might know, Avery's mother. Avery is married to a stern, the sweetest one in my opinion, Liam.
Margaret Edwards was born into a family of status. With that status came rules for days. She's been married twice but has she really truly found love? In her fifties, she's got everything she could possibly want at her disposal. Then, why does she feel so lonely?
Charles is her recent dating buddy. They've gone out a few times and things seem to be picking up. They are from the same world. They know the ins and outs of what their world entails and there are no surprises she can for-see. Then why isn't she attracted to him?
Marcus Hebert is the toughest biker around. He's the president of a local motorcycle club and everyone knows it (whether they want to admit it or not). He's no spring chicken either, but boy-oh-boy you wouldn't know it by looking at him. He's known the Edwards' family for a long time. And after one hell of a night, he brings Margaret home. He's got a lot on his plate, he doesn't need some fancy lady walking into his club and talking to him the way Margaret Edwards does. But somehow, he keeps walking right back into her trap.
Who will Margaret let into her life for good? What will she have to give up for the life she so desperately wants?
Through her family, the Sterns and her bestie Cherry we get a first hand look at the Lady, Margaret Edwards. Hold on tight, make a martini and dive right in.
Loved this Classy Sassy Lady and Her Big Brash Biker. 💗
I'm a huge fan of this authors writing, The Stern Family is a fantastic series and her Youngblood spin off series is even better, and one of my favourites.
I was very intrigued to read this Duet as Margaret has featured in other books and I've never really paid her much attention. Marcus has always stood out in all the ways a Biker does but we never really knew much about him.
I was very curious as to how the ruthless president of an MC and a High Society Lady were going to work. I admit to being pleasantly surprised as to how much Margaret and Marcus drew me into their unique and complicated romance. Monique did a brilliant job writing their story.
Margaret is the epitome of a lady, classy and sophisticated with impeccable manners and Marcus is a dangerous dirty biker. They're complete opposites who shouldn't work in any situation but after reading their story they convinced me that they belong together. I absolutely loved their journey.
It did take me a while to warm towards Margaret but once I did, I really liked her character, she had such a strong will that didn't wither when the going got tough. Marcus was a great guy, strong, confident, dependable and utterly charming when he needs to be. He's very alluring in every way.
Margaret's relationship with Cherry was one of my favourite parts of the story, they have a magical friendship that made me laugh. I'm so excited for Cherry to get her story I love her character.
I'm already a HUGE fan of Monique's other books but this one might be my favorite! I loved Margaret from the minute we met her. Yes she was prim and proper but I knew there was more to her then just that. I was so right!! She was brought up a certain way and carried that into her adult life. She went to parties, wore the best and most beautiful dresses and had her husband by her side. She did what she knew she was supposed to do until now.. She wants to live and do what she wants to do for once.. Enter Marcus..Wow this man is a woman's dream man and the ultimate book boyfriend!! Every time he was in a scene, my heart either swooned and felt so much passion I thought my heart would explode. He's a biker and complete opposite of Margaret but these two fit so well together! Who would have thought? These two sizzle the pages and have you turning the pages faster then you can read them! In the midst of all the sizzle and steam of Margaret and Marcus, there's some moments that will have you rolling with laughter! I swear Cherry and Margaret have some fun times and you can see how close their bond is! Their banter was everything!!! If you can't tell by now, I absolutely LOVED this book and can't wait for more!!!!!!
So, it is a given that every book of Monique's that I get my hands on will be devoured immediately and I can't say enough about them. This book though . . . . well, I wish I was still reading it and that it never ended. Margaret is one of those characters that you're just not sure about. If you've read Avery and Liam's story, then you know she doesn't win the mother of the year award. BUT . . . reading her story was everything. There were some things that I could totally relate to Margaret on. I love that she's 56 and getting her groove back, finding herself, and forgiving herself. I've always had a thing for Marcus since his first appearance, but with this book you just fall for him. I have a love/hate relationship with Alpha's but Marcus is the kind of alpha that I could let myself fall for. This book was 5 stars and more! But Monique and I are gonna have to have a talk, because I want to know what happens with Regina and River, so the MC's really need their own series. I know, I know, you've got an order, but I'm just saying . . . . Well done, Monique. This has been my favorite story so far.
I absolutely loved this book. This is Margaret and Marcus’s story, and it is definitely a great read. Margaret is from money and is very popular and known among the social circle. But she needs more. She wants to live life, and find happiness. Marcus is the president of the MC club. He is an amazing man, but believes they live different lives and to date each other could ruin Margaret’s reputation. But Margaret disagrees. She found a man whom she likes, and there is an attraction between them, even if they try to ignore it. Let’s keep things simple they say. Well simple doesn’t cut it. Then there’s Charles, who can’t take No for an answer. He wants Margaret but there’s no spark there. He continues to interfere with Mags life and Marcus. Margaret just wants him to go away, but he never listens. The book is a fantastic read. My feelings were all of the place. There’s tears, laughter, sadness, and joy. You will love this story about Margaret &Marcus. You have to give love a chance, and see what happens. ❤️❤️
Monique Orgeron seriously has a gift for very addictive stories that are completely original. Her characters are truly one of a kind, and you never know what direction she's going to take us on which makes it a fantastic experience since there's nothing I love more than dropping f-bombs. If you've read all the previous books, you've met Margaret before, and I for one, wasn't a fan to be honest. If I had known sooner that she would have her own deep story filled with angst, well, maybe I would have given her a bit more slack LOL! I mean there are reasons why she came off as she did as a supporting cast member, but I'll never tell. Per usual, there was a great deal of humor in between all the heavy, bad a** heroines, heat like you wouldn't believe, twists coming in hot, and action as it's a dark mafia world where only the strongest stay alive. There may or may not be a MC coming out to play as well so you seriously don't want to miss out on this gripping beginning of the Stern's High Society Duet as you know what to do. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
What can I say... Such a great read! Thoroughly enjoyed every word.
We get to see two relationships in The Lady. The first being Margaret and Cherry. Polar opposites, chalk and cheese yet they compliment each other in a way you don't see coming. So many funny moments between these two they are almost a double act in itself.
Then we have the serious side between Marcus and Margaret... Now this really is a relationship that shouldn't work. Margaret as the title suggests is 'The Lady' ; very regal. Plenty of airs and graces. Sophisticated from the tousled hair on her head to her finely polished toe nails. Then there is Marcus, prez of the local MC. A guy who operates on the wrong side of the law. From their very first meeting in the alley there was just something that clicked between them which strengthens as the story progresses.
Such a great story and a further extension to the Stern family saga. Plenty of angst and HEAs
Another wonderful addition to the Stern World Ms. Orgeron has hooked us all with! I am all in for these two! I really enjoyed Margaret and Marcus' story because it had all the good things I've come to expect from this author, intrigue, criminal dealings, steamy scenes but what really stood out here was the friendship between Margaret and Cherry. Their bickering had me smiling and laughing and wishing I had a friend like Cherry, I can't wait for her book she is a riot! And of course Marcus, outlaw, rebel, silver fox, perfect match for Margaret, they are both bad@ss bosses of all they rule over. I liked that we got a peek at the Stern family as well, this book made me smile and kept me turning the pages as Margaret discovered herself and I couldn't put it down.
This book was a different Route for this Author, however it was Amazing!!! Again she brings you into her world and Makes you Feel almost every feeling you can, you will Laugh, Cry (both from laughing and in seriousness), scream, yell, and fall in Love!!! I wasn't a huge fan of Margaret's in any way throughout her brief appearance in this Author's other series, however, I totally understand her now, and I'm so in love with both her and Marcus in this book!!! This Author has a way with Words, and I LOVE IT!! I can not wait for her next book. Crap I cant wait for her next 30 books!! She gets you going and once you start, you cant stop!! I absolutely reccomend her books, Start with the Stern Saga, then the Youngbloods series then come to this series! I promise you wont be sorry!!
The Lady is the first of a duet spin off from the Stern Series. This was a long awaited treat for me as a reader. I loved the fact that the story is a woman in her prime of life. (Over 45!!!). Find a true love and a renewed purpose after two previous marriages that were far from perfection. She is a society Lady he is the President of the MC. Marcus is a yummy 50 something man that will make you drool. The chemistry between the two is hot!! The story is great as always as is expected from the author Monique Orgeron. I laughed and lived through this book. My only complaint was I wanted more!! I wanted it longer and more story!! I loved the friendship of Margaret and Cherry. They are the perfect friendship. The Lucy and Ethel or me and my BFF. This is a definite must read!!!
I best thing about this story is the way it focused on the main characters Margaret and Marcus. It raised their fears, demons, and their rocky pasts. The chemistry between Marcus and Margaret is off the charts but they are so different it would seem impossible for them to be together. A lady and a biker do not mix especially in the Stern world. Add to that a man who thinks Margaret belongs to him and sparks fly. Charles won’t take no for an answer and I didn’t like his character from the start. Again love and loyalty are a large part of this story and this comes from very unusual sources I just got sucked right into this and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Ayyyyeeee, Margaret Edwards is a lady in the streets but…. You know the saying. I loved this book and hated to see it end. Another fabulous 5 star read by Monique (as usual)! This book can be read as a stand alone although I would suggest reading Art of Forgiveness (Avery & Laim’s story) first just to be familiar with the history. While you’re at it, read the entire series. You won’t be disappointed. Margaret is a proper as they come, she’s picture perfect to those on the outside. Marcus is the president of the Crescent Kings MC & a silver fox. Socialite and biker… it could never work…. could it?
This book was awesome! I didn’t really like Margaret much in the previous books, and I’m excited to have read her story now. She is so much more than I thought, more human and kind. Even physically she is different than I imagined. And Marcus is soooo hot! He’s a sexy silver fox! They make such an unusual couple that are just perfect. I also love to see other characters from the family take part in this story. I’m already thinking of how many books will come of this one, how many other stories will likely develop. For now, I’ll patiently wait for Cherry’s story.
Margaret and Marcus two opposite that find a middle ground, but with no strings attached will they be able to find more or will stubborn pride keep them apart? These two take you and your emotions on a roller coaster ride of twist and turns that you won't see or believe any of it till it's right in fromt of you. I laughed out loud with this one and cried some too. I was pulled right in and loved every second of it. I so can't wait to read what this author has she knows how to keep me coming back for more and more.
Started the book and I was like, I don’t like Margaret why do I want to read this? But I quickly changed my mind as I got into the story.
Great story of finding yourself and then finally making yourself happy! I loved Marcus! He was all sweet and alpha wrapped into one. I love how he just meshed with what Margaret needed without even thinking about it. Margaret finally got her act together. I loved all the ways she tried to get Marcus back!
Amazing story line once again. Gripping story of the personal growth and awareness of Maggs she found her inner strength and her goddess equally. Loved it I was in tears and then laughing, definitely enjoyed the rollercoaster or emotions and plot. Absolutely love Marcus and Maggs together they give the other the quite strength they need. I would recommend thus to everyone of my peers. Can't wait for the next story to unfold. Monique hit it out of the Park again
Wow! Ok so ill be honest. I was really hesitant when I heard it was a book stemming off the original series. But man oh man. I stayed up all night just to finish this book. I really didn't think I would like Margaret's character but with Marcus, she is on fire! I just adore Marcus and the love he has for his "old lady". And Margaret's friendship with cherry had me cracking up. I cannot wait to read cherry's book next. Great job Monique. You are truly talented and I hope you never stop writing!
Avery's mother, Margaret finally gets her HEA. This woman has been through the ringer with her two former husbands. Finally, she meets a man who isn't intimidated by her business or standing in society. He admires her ability to work a room bending men and woman to her will. The problem? He doesn't fit in her with society acquaintances. She doesn't care. He doesn't care. What started out as a friends with benefits, prompted by her BFF Cherry, becomes more than they both realized. Margaret the society maven becomes Marcus's Mags.
Monique, you are killing me. Keeping me up until 1 am reading, because I just can't put this book down. High society woman is what Margaret is. Never in her wildest dreams would she think she'd fall in love with the Prez of a Biker Club, but she does. I would bust out laughing at some of the things she says & does, & then be tearing up when she is hurting! Margaret will always be the Lady, with a little more sass & love for herself. Great story as always, Miss Monique!
Into the world of New Orleans socialite Margaret Edwards we go!! Fabulous clothes, sexy shoes and heirloom jewelry.. but is it enough? This book had me chuckling, tearing up, and having so many “other” emotions. (But I will let you find THAT out for yourselves). Once again Monique had me totally invested in her characters. With witty comebacks and hilarious monologue, this is a feel-good book with a hint of pizzazz! Will Margaret get the “Happily Ever After” that she craves? We shall see...
amazing read i got to read an arc copy and this author is on fire .with so many authors I feel as they release more books the quality goes down not the case with this author amazing read. i love how the book is about an older couple so they are not looking to start a family and have both children and grand children. It just brings home that everyone no matter the age can get a happily ever after.
Marcus and Margaret are complete opposites. But have found that the best things are different. The steam is so hot you need a fan. And emotions are all over the place. But Mags finally discovers who she is and what she wants and screw everyone else. She takes control and does it her way for a change. The result will have you laughing so hard you have to pee. Another perfect book from this author.