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Once Upon a Scandal #2
To Resist a Scandalous Rogue
For Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell and only son of a powerful earl, life has been a lark . . . until he discovers a terrible family secret that could ruin him. Determined to make a name for himself free of scandal's shadow, he runs for Parliament. However, he encounters Charlotte, the mysterious woman who disappeared after their one night together, and he finds it impossible to stay away, despite her working class status and Jewish faith that threaten to destroy his chance for success. Widowed, penniless, and desperate, Charlotte Taylor secures a teaching position at a foundling home and relaxes into a predictable existence. That is, until Finlay, the man she shared one romantic night with, reappears, a specter from her past. He ignites her passion, even while he threatens the precarious foundation on which she's rebuilt her life. But when those from her past return to endanger her hard-earned security, she'll have to reveal his secret or go to prison. Contains mature themes.
Runtime: 11. 10 hours, 9 library CDs
Runtime: 11. 10 hours, 9 library CDs
Audio CD
Published March 8, 2022
24 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Liana De la Rosa
14 books866 followersLiana De la Rosa wrangles her children by day, and writes USA Today Bestselling romance by night. For details on her current project, visit her at lianadelarosa.com or find her on social media under @LianainBloom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
June 21, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Charlotte leaves India after her husbands death and arrives back in England, with no money or prospects she takes on the roll of what she thinks is a maid only to find its prostitution.
She turns down the job but later finds herself sleeping with a handsome young Lord at the same house ,only to run from him the next morning.
Finlay is struggling to keep his estate together , after his father virtually bankrupted them .
At a house party he meets Charlotte and realises that he needs more in his life .
Before he can offer her the roll of his mistress, she disappears.
The two reconnect , when he discovers she works for a charity he supports, but she’s on the run and the men chasing her are closing in .
He can’t be seen to have a relationship with a lowborn lady and she can’t put him at risk .
Will the two ever get through their differences?
A great book , really addictive reading, thoroughly enjoyable.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Charlotte leaves India after her husbands death and arrives back in England, with no money or prospects she takes on the roll of what she thinks is a maid only to find its prostitution.
She turns down the job but later finds herself sleeping with a handsome young Lord at the same house ,only to run from him the next morning.
Finlay is struggling to keep his estate together , after his father virtually bankrupted them .
At a house party he meets Charlotte and realises that he needs more in his life .
Before he can offer her the roll of his mistress, she disappears.
The two reconnect , when he discovers she works for a charity he supports, but she’s on the run and the men chasing her are closing in .
He can’t be seen to have a relationship with a lowborn lady and she can’t put him at risk .
Will the two ever get through their differences?
A great book , really addictive reading, thoroughly enjoyable.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
June 8, 2024
The hero seemed so weak, no backbone.
June 15, 2019
Charlotte Townsend was left destitute after her husband Roderick died and she learned that his will did not make any provisions for her, penniless and alone in India, she sells her wedding ring and travels back to England. When a chance encounter with her cousin Eliza offers employment, Charlotte willingly accepts, until she finds out the job is not what she expected. She refuses and goes into the garden to think. While she is sitting there, a guest from the party joins her, they talk and share a drink, one thing leads to another and soon they are sharing much more…
Finlay, Viscount Firthwell and heir to Earl of Rockhaven is attending the party hoping to forget the devastating news he and his twin sister have recently learned about their father. Instead he finds he has no desire to lose himself in debauchery and heads out to the garden, where he meets Charlotte, she is nothing like any of the women he has known before and after a passionate night together, he wants more, but when he wakes and realizes she is gone, he decides to return to the country and get his estate in order, then figure out how to make a name for himself that isn’t dependent on his father’s title.
A year passes before they meet again, she is teaching at the foundling school and he has returned to London to gain support for his run for the House of Commons. He is delighted to see her again and even though he knows she is not for him, he can’t seem to stay away. Charlotte finally has some security in her life, but ghosts from her past still haunt her and could destroy Finlay’s hopes for a seat in the House of Commons. She tries to keep him at arm’s length, but finally gives in to the passion that never died.
When her past threatens not only her future, but those of the people she holds dear, Charlotte must decide if she can betray the man she loves to save him or will she sacrifice herself instead?
This was a very well written, emotionally charged story touching on several issues of the era, including politics, religion and women’s rights, but while those issues are prominent in the story, they never overwhelm the romance between Charlotte and Finlay. The book has wonderful secondary characters, a couple of twists and turns, steamy-ish love scenes, a little suspense and a beautiful epilogue. This is the second book in the series, but it could easily be read as a stand-alone title, but if you want to know more about Finlay’s secret, I would recommend reading that book first.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
Finlay, Viscount Firthwell and heir to Earl of Rockhaven is attending the party hoping to forget the devastating news he and his twin sister have recently learned about their father. Instead he finds he has no desire to lose himself in debauchery and heads out to the garden, where he meets Charlotte, she is nothing like any of the women he has known before and after a passionate night together, he wants more, but when he wakes and realizes she is gone, he decides to return to the country and get his estate in order, then figure out how to make a name for himself that isn’t dependent on his father’s title.
A year passes before they meet again, she is teaching at the foundling school and he has returned to London to gain support for his run for the House of Commons. He is delighted to see her again and even though he knows she is not for him, he can’t seem to stay away. Charlotte finally has some security in her life, but ghosts from her past still haunt her and could destroy Finlay’s hopes for a seat in the House of Commons. She tries to keep him at arm’s length, but finally gives in to the passion that never died.
When her past threatens not only her future, but those of the people she holds dear, Charlotte must decide if she can betray the man she loves to save him or will she sacrifice herself instead?
This was a very well written, emotionally charged story touching on several issues of the era, including politics, religion and women’s rights, but while those issues are prominent in the story, they never overwhelm the romance between Charlotte and Finlay. The book has wonderful secondary characters, a couple of twists and turns, steamy-ish love scenes, a little suspense and a beautiful epilogue. This is the second book in the series, but it could easily be read as a stand-alone title, but if you want to know more about Finlay’s secret, I would recommend reading that book first.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
June 23, 2019
4.5 stars
The more I read of this story the more I enjoyed it. There were a number of interesting characters in this story, the main two, being Charlotte and Finlay. Finlay, Viscount Firthwell, was very interested in parliament and had political aspirations. He also had a damaging secret. Charlotte was a widow who was left to fend for herself. She was also a Jew, which would not be approved of on some circles. There were also some who wanted to cause her harm . This was an engaging story and although the politics of the day played a part, there was still heartfelt, passionate moments between Charlotte and Finlay. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The more I read of this story the more I enjoyed it. There were a number of interesting characters in this story, the main two, being Charlotte and Finlay. Finlay, Viscount Firthwell, was very interested in parliament and had political aspirations. He also had a damaging secret. Charlotte was a widow who was left to fend for herself. She was also a Jew, which would not be approved of on some circles. There were also some who wanted to cause her harm . This was an engaging story and although the politics of the day played a part, there was still heartfelt, passionate moments between Charlotte and Finlay. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 21, 2023
This was a lovely story. Lots of ups and downs.
Jewish heroine and a bastard lord. Both are keeping secrets
It was unique and sweet.
4 stars
2 on the spice scale
Jewish heroine and a bastard lord. Both are keeping secrets
It was unique and sweet.
4 stars
2 on the spice scale
June 17, 2019
Who can resist a woman who drinks whisky?
One of the things I love about Liana’s books is her descriptive writing. I always get a full picture of where the characters are and what’s going on around them. Finlay and Charlotte are naturals together. You just feel them when they're on the page together. Finlay’s visits to the Little Windmill House are touching and heart gripping. Tea time was my favorite. I will always have a sweet picture of him at the table with Charlotte and a gaggle of little girls learning deportment. He charmed us all!
It’s fun to read the stories of characters we’ve met and fallen in love with from previous books. That is the case with “To Resist a Scandalous Rogue”. Finlay is the brother of Alethea in book one. He was a strong character in the first book and well deserving of his own story.
This book can stand alone, as well as the first in the series.
Can’t wait for Flora’s story!
One of the things I love about Liana’s books is her descriptive writing. I always get a full picture of where the characters are and what’s going on around them. Finlay and Charlotte are naturals together. You just feel them when they're on the page together. Finlay’s visits to the Little Windmill House are touching and heart gripping. Tea time was my favorite. I will always have a sweet picture of him at the table with Charlotte and a gaggle of little girls learning deportment. He charmed us all!
It’s fun to read the stories of characters we’ve met and fallen in love with from previous books. That is the case with “To Resist a Scandalous Rogue”. Finlay is the brother of Alethea in book one. He was a strong character in the first book and well deserving of his own story.
This book can stand alone, as well as the first in the series.
Can’t wait for Flora’s story!
June 24, 2019
To Resist a Scandalous Rogue by Liana De la Rosa is book Two in the Once Upon A Scandal Series. This is the story of Charlotte Taylor and Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell. I have read the previous book, but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Charlotte is a widower who is struggling to make it but finally setting into a teaching job teaching at a foundling school. Prior to this she and Finlay happen to meet which lead to a hot encounter but didn't see each other again until about 1 year later. Finlay has come to town to pursue his political goals. Both are from different class and religions but their feelings keep drawing them toward each other.
Enjoyed their story.
Charlotte is a widower who is struggling to make it but finally setting into a teaching job teaching at a foundling school. Prior to this she and Finlay happen to meet which lead to a hot encounter but didn't see each other again until about 1 year later. Finlay has come to town to pursue his political goals. Both are from different class and religions but their feelings keep drawing them toward each other.
Enjoyed their story.
June 8, 2019
Although this story involves a lot of politics and religion, it also showcases how wonderful friendships can be and how important it is to be able to trust.
My heart went out to Charlotte, she's gone through so much and feels she'll never be able to be with Finlay because she's Jewish, is a widow, is penniless and has no title. Back in that era, being Catholic was the only acceptable religion. She's also being blackmailed by her former in laws!
Finlay has worked hard to get to where he is, politically speaking, but knows that if his secret ever comes out (he and his twin sister were born out of wedlock), his career would be destroyed. Add to that the fact that he's in love with Charlotte and knows that if the ton should hear of their relationship, it would also destroy his career. A lot of heartache happens before he and Charlotte can find their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
My heart went out to Charlotte, she's gone through so much and feels she'll never be able to be with Finlay because she's Jewish, is a widow, is penniless and has no title. Back in that era, being Catholic was the only acceptable religion. She's also being blackmailed by her former in laws!
Finlay has worked hard to get to where he is, politically speaking, but knows that if his secret ever comes out (he and his twin sister were born out of wedlock), his career would be destroyed. Add to that the fact that he's in love with Charlotte and knows that if the ton should hear of their relationship, it would also destroy his career. A lot of heartache happens before he and Charlotte can find their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 4, 2019
A first-time author for me, I found this book to be very interesting. I enjoyed learning a bit about what it entailed to run for political office. I was also delightfully surprised by the Jewish heroine. While this book can be read as a standalone, I plan to go back and read the first book in the series To Love A Scandalous Duke. I have received an ARC for my honest review.
May 14, 2019
I was hooked from the first page. That in itself was enough, but the odds against this couple being together in marriage was even more engaging. A surprising turn in the story is the heroine is Jewish. A romance is often about overcoming obstacles and Liana De La Rosa did an excellent job making it work, which is why I could barely put the book down. Kudos for an excellent read!
A free copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
A free copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
October 17, 2019
4.5 Stars
Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell and only son of the Earl of Rockhaven, life has been a lark until his father’s dealings means he has to flee the country & Fin discovers a family secret that could ruin him. Determined to make a name for himself free of scandal’s shadow, he decides to run for Parliament but not in one of the pocket boroughs of the earldom. He goes to a friends party where he encounters Charlotte, they talk, they drink whisky & they spend the night together, she then disappears but he can't forget her, one year later they meet again
Widowed, penniless, and desperate, Charlotte Taylor secures a teaching position at a foundling home and relaxes into a predictable existence. That is, until Finlay, the man she shared one romantic night with, reappears, a ghost from her past. However when those from her past return to endanger her hard-earned security, she’ll have to reveal his secret or go to prison.
The second book in the series, it is easily read on its own but also continues the story begun in the first book. It’s hard to believe that this very accomplished novel is only the authors second. Very well written with characters that are well portrayed. The pace of the story is very good. I liked Finlay in Althea’s story & he deserved his HEA. Charlotte had had a hard life & her strength of character to begin again & again was admirable. I did feel the villains were ‘let off' lightly & would have liked them to have been on a one way ticket to the Antipodes! Whilst the political machinations were intriguing they did leave me a little cold but I loved the developing relationship between Fin & Char & how they came to love each other. I also thought the epilogue was different as set twenty nine years in the future, it was so lovely & fitting, of course I now want to know who Flora's husband is?
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell and only son of the Earl of Rockhaven, life has been a lark until his father’s dealings means he has to flee the country & Fin discovers a family secret that could ruin him. Determined to make a name for himself free of scandal’s shadow, he decides to run for Parliament but not in one of the pocket boroughs of the earldom. He goes to a friends party where he encounters Charlotte, they talk, they drink whisky & they spend the night together, she then disappears but he can't forget her, one year later they meet again
Widowed, penniless, and desperate, Charlotte Taylor secures a teaching position at a foundling home and relaxes into a predictable existence. That is, until Finlay, the man she shared one romantic night with, reappears, a ghost from her past. However when those from her past return to endanger her hard-earned security, she’ll have to reveal his secret or go to prison.
The second book in the series, it is easily read on its own but also continues the story begun in the first book. It’s hard to believe that this very accomplished novel is only the authors second. Very well written with characters that are well portrayed. The pace of the story is very good. I liked Finlay in Althea’s story & he deserved his HEA. Charlotte had had a hard life & her strength of character to begin again & again was admirable. I did feel the villains were ‘let off' lightly & would have liked them to have been on a one way ticket to the Antipodes! Whilst the political machinations were intriguing they did leave me a little cold but I loved the developing relationship between Fin & Char & how they came to love each other. I also thought the epilogue was different as set twenty nine years in the future, it was so lovely & fitting, of course I now want to know who Flora's husband is?
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 24, 2019
Finlay is trying to turn his life around after learning a secret that could shatter his world. Trying to forget what happened, he attends a house party where he meets Charlotte. They feel an immediate attraction and spend the night together, but she disappears in the morning.
Charlotte is a widow and desperately needs a job. She thought she would be a maid at the house party, but her cousin didn't tell her the truth. Not willing to lay on her back for money, she decides to spend the night and leave in the morning. Unable to sleep, she goes to the garden where she meets Finlay. Charlotte knows that there can never be anything between her and Finlay and she heads back to London before he makes an offer that she can't refuse. She luckily finds a job at a foundling home, teaching the children.
A year later, Finlay and Charlotte meet up again. Their attraction is still red hot. Can anything permanent come from it?
I loved Finlay and Charlotte's story! I loved that they were able to have meaningful conversations between each other. Even though they only spent one night together, you get the feeling that they have known each other for much longer because of their strong connection. This was a great addition to the series and I hope that De la Rosa continues it, as I have throughly enjoyed it!
Charlotte is a widow and desperately needs a job. She thought she would be a maid at the house party, but her cousin didn't tell her the truth. Not willing to lay on her back for money, she decides to spend the night and leave in the morning. Unable to sleep, she goes to the garden where she meets Finlay. Charlotte knows that there can never be anything between her and Finlay and she heads back to London before he makes an offer that she can't refuse. She luckily finds a job at a foundling home, teaching the children.
A year later, Finlay and Charlotte meet up again. Their attraction is still red hot. Can anything permanent come from it?
I loved Finlay and Charlotte's story! I loved that they were able to have meaningful conversations between each other. Even though they only spent one night together, you get the feeling that they have known each other for much longer because of their strong connection. This was a great addition to the series and I hope that De la Rosa continues it, as I have throughly enjoyed it!
June 19, 2019
I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. To Resist a Scandalous Rogue by Liana De la Rosa is the second book in her Once Upon a Scandal series. It can be read as a stand-alone but I enjoyed the first book and recommend reading it. Charlotte Taylor recently widowed has been left with nothing after the death of her husband, so when her cousin offers her a job as a maid she jumps at the chance only to find that the job really involves entertaining gentlemen at a house party and not by tidying their bedrooms. Findlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell attended the house party as an escape from pressures in his life and once he arrives realizes that the entertainments offered are not really to his taste anymore. Looking to escape the house party they meet in the garden and an enjoyable evening conversing and laughing turns into something more but because of the differences in their status and Charlottes Judaism that night is all that they can have. Nasty villains, political maneuvering and adorable orphans make for a story that will keep you up late reading. Medium Steam. Publishing Date June 24, 2019 #NetGalley #ToResistAScandalousRogue #Lianadelarosa #EntangledPublishing #EntangledAmara
June 24, 2019
I gave this a five-star review because of the unusual subject matters. It describes London in the 1820's and shows the ugly side of religious prejudice and people who grew up as Lords and Ladies only to find out the dark secret that they were born on the wrong side of the blanket. The characters were well written and their personalities are fantastic. They dealt with their situations realistically. They bore the scars of the wrongs in their life with as much dignity and grace as possible. However, there was suffering along with painful things said and done. If the wrong people found out or the characters went out of step, they could ruin their lives irrevocably. This is a well written book and a must read. I highly recommend it. I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2019
4.5 stars
Well , to my shame, it’s the first book that I’ve read by the author although I’ve heard great things about her stories before from my book friends.
Even if it’s the second book in the series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone.There are some secrets and questions that I had and apparently I will get the answer in the first book but that didn’t deter me from enjoying this book .
It’s a book filled with so many emotions and feelings, I enjoyed everything about it, the writing, the characters, the twists and turns, all the topics that maybe even in our times our society is still struggling with it.
I loved everything and looking forward to the next books in the series.
Well , to my shame, it’s the first book that I’ve read by the author although I’ve heard great things about her stories before from my book friends.
Even if it’s the second book in the series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone.There are some secrets and questions that I had and apparently I will get the answer in the first book but that didn’t deter me from enjoying this book .
It’s a book filled with so many emotions and feelings, I enjoyed everything about it, the writing, the characters, the twists and turns, all the topics that maybe even in our times our society is still struggling with it.
I loved everything and looking forward to the next books in the series.
June 24, 2019
A story about finding love in the middle of political and social revolution. Charlotte and Findlay are facing personal struggles in their lives. They are attracted to each other but believe that forming a relationship would be detrimental. Charlotte is strong willed and determined in her need to survive on her own. Findlay wants to care for her but there are forces working against them. The story shows their strength and resilience to stand up for what they believe in and support the people they love at all costs.
June 24, 2019
This was a little different to the usual HEA that I read. This is the first of Ms De La Rosa’s books that I have read. It was a bit heavy on the politics and religion and I found it a bit hard to get into. But once I did, I enjoyed. I found that it was well written and would read more of Ms De La Rosa’s books. The characters were well presented and I enjoyed the fact that the beginning didn’t start with a complicated sex scene, which is something that would have happened in a lot of other books. I received this book as an ARC.
June 18, 2019
Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell is heir to the earldom - his father left the country after he swindled some titled men on some bad investments. Fin's plan is to keep scandal far from his doorstep & he is running for political office. I enjoyed Fin - he was handsome, funny, romantic & honorable.
Widow Charlotte Taylor is without income/money but she manages a school position at a foundling home & is at last, comfortable with a roof over her head. That is, until Fin comes in to her life after a night of passion they shared in her past. She still has to fight her desire fir him but she will not jeopardize her employment & comfortable life. I did get a little bored with Charlotte's voicing or thinking that she was not good enough for everyone around her.
The book was written very well & the story was interesting. It was based mostly on politics & religion - which had some interesting points but I really like romantic books & this was just too heavy for my liking. I never really found myself immersed in the story or the characters but I did enjoy the last third of the book. & they did get their HEA.
I was gifted this ARC & have happily volunteered my honest review of a book that was original but not your typical historical romance & it was well written by the author.
Widow Charlotte Taylor is without income/money but she manages a school position at a foundling home & is at last, comfortable with a roof over her head. That is, until Fin comes in to her life after a night of passion they shared in her past. She still has to fight her desire fir him but she will not jeopardize her employment & comfortable life. I did get a little bored with Charlotte's voicing or thinking that she was not good enough for everyone around her.
The book was written very well & the story was interesting. It was based mostly on politics & religion - which had some interesting points but I really like romantic books & this was just too heavy for my liking. I never really found myself immersed in the story or the characters but I did enjoy the last third of the book. & they did get their HEA.
I was gifted this ARC & have happily volunteered my honest review of a book that was original but not your typical historical romance & it was well written by the author.
March 13, 2024
aside from the cheesy cover, I very much enjoyed reading this. I needed something fun and light but didn’t at all feel like I was wasting my time with fluff. Witty banter, characters hold their own, and I felt the De La Rosa gave a good glimpse into the social/political scene of the time.
May 5, 2019
Interesting story. Charlotte is such a strong heroine, who has faced such adversity. She is kind and loving too. Fin, the rogue with a great heart. The plot is good, love, evil in-laws, nationalities, religion, Newgate...enjoy
June 2, 2019
I can't wait for readers to meet Finlay and Charlotte!
February 2, 2020
I picked up this book because it was on a list of books with Jewish main characters and I'm always down for reading that. Hoo boy. There was one thing I really liked about the book - namely the author's sensitivity to power dynamics in social relationships in England across class lines. But overall, this book didn't work for me for two reasons: first, the constant references to the Duke (hero's brother in law) making all his money in the West Indies. Given the time period, I'm not interested in books where the hero and his family's money explicitly comes from the slave trade. I know the Duke was the previous hero and maybe the author painted him as a reformer and abolitionist there, but it wasn't apparent here.
Second, and more importantly, the way the author handled Judaism and heroine's Jewish identity was beyond frustrating. The random Hebrew words and references to Jewish instruments/stories from Jewish mythology were jarring (and at times wrong) and on any sort of deeper level, Judaism didn't seem to be integral to her personality. And the ending - where the heroine I don't know the author's own religious affiliation, but a Jewish sensitivity reader would have helped with some of the serious problems here.
Second, and more importantly, the way the author handled Judaism and heroine's Jewish identity was beyond frustrating. The random Hebrew words and references to Jewish instruments/stories from Jewish mythology were jarring (and at times wrong) and on any sort of deeper level, Judaism didn't seem to be integral to her personality. And the ending - where the heroine I don't know the author's own religious affiliation, but a Jewish sensitivity reader would have helped with some of the serious problems here.
May 24, 2019
This is a historical period romance. This story begins in London 1828.
Charlotte is recently widowed and penniless. Her husband died in India of cholera. His parents showed up in India and told her he had left her nothing. They took all his money and his possessions, and she was forced to gather what she could and managed to sell her wedding ring to book passage back to London.
Finlay is the Viscount of Firthwell and heir to the Earl of Rockhaven. His father is traveling the continent to avoid a scandal of his own making. While Finlay isn’t fond of his father, he has other problems. Rebuilding his father’s earldom and trying to build a better name for himself. He also has learned recently his mother had an affair and he’s not actually the Earl’s son, but no one else knows this. He found it in his mother’s diary after she died. His twin sister Alethea just married their childhood friend, Declan, Duke of Darington. He has also decided on a political career, if he can keep the scandal secret.
They meet one night by accident. She was offered a job by her cousin Eliza. Charlotte thought it was to be a maid, but the women were to be entertainment for the Earl of Belling’s party. She declined the job and was going to leave the house in the morning, but she wanted to just sit in the gardens for a little while. While she was there Finley, who was invited to the party, was escaping the activities and came into the garden. They struck up a conversation and talked for a long while, sharing a bit of whiskey from Finley’s flask. Enjoying herself and a bit in her cups, she stayed the night with Finley. However, happy and fulfilled as she was, she knew she couldn’t be a mistress, so she left without saying goodbye.
A year later, Finley learns Charlotte is working as a teacher at The Little Windmill House, a foundling home Lady Campbell and her brother founded. His sister had taught there until her marriage. Neither of them had managed to forget the other over the year. The attraction was strong.
That’s the basic setup. There is, of course, much more and interesting threads to the plot. But I will leave those for you to read for yourself. In all, this is a very interesting and romantic story. It’s cleverly plotted so things come together slowly with a lot of anticipation. If you are a fan of historical romances, this one has some interesting side threads about religious acceptance, the awakening of independent women, and the times. I enjoyed reading it, hope you do too!
May 21, 2019
***ARC was provided to me by Net Galley and the Publisher for a fair and honest review***
Overall rating: 4/5 A false heir and a widow share a wonderful night and then meet again a year latter.
Heroine (Charlotte Taylor): 3.5/5 She is a Jewish shop girl turned school teacher and had lost her husband to cholera along the way. She is stubborn and will do pretty much anything in order to not ask for help.
Hero (Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell): 4/5 Fin harbors great secrets, from the truth of his birth to who he chooses to spend time with. While he doesn’t really care what people think of either, he is running for a position in the House of Commons. He is loyal and kind and would give help freely to those that asked.
Plot: 4/5 Finlay meets Charlotte at a house party where she had been led to believe there was work as a maid. She had lost everything when her husband died and was left penniless and is now searching for work. When both drink too much they end up in bed together, Charlotte leaves in the morning before Finlay can offer a position as his mistress. They meet again a year later when Charlotte becomes a school teacher at a charity school that Finlay donates to and his sister had worked at before becoming a duchess. Finlay is in the middle of a campaign for the House of Commons and can’t risk a scandal. Charlotte’s past comes to haunt her and in order to save her Finlay will have to risk everything he’s worked for.
Personal Review: Charlotte is the type of stubborn heroine that I dislike but is very in line with human nature. She is a ‘go it alone or not at all’ type of person when we meet her and stays that way right up until the end. Life has made her jaded towards trusting others due to the people she trusts dying and leaving her alone. Instead of asking for help or at least making her friends aware of her situation she keeps them purposely in the dark and ends up exactly where you would expect her to.
Finlay should be focused on his political career when he is reintroduced to Charlotte. He has the internal struggle of living a life of love or one of duty. I liked his overall arc and where he ends up in the story. He goes from a lost false heir to championing those less fortunate than him.
The writing was good, the story was compelling. Overall I had a good time reading it.
Overall rating: 4/5 A false heir and a widow share a wonderful night and then meet again a year latter.
Heroine (Charlotte Taylor): 3.5/5 She is a Jewish shop girl turned school teacher and had lost her husband to cholera along the way. She is stubborn and will do pretty much anything in order to not ask for help.
Hero (Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell): 4/5 Fin harbors great secrets, from the truth of his birth to who he chooses to spend time with. While he doesn’t really care what people think of either, he is running for a position in the House of Commons. He is loyal and kind and would give help freely to those that asked.
Plot: 4/5 Finlay meets Charlotte at a house party where she had been led to believe there was work as a maid. She had lost everything when her husband died and was left penniless and is now searching for work. When both drink too much they end up in bed together, Charlotte leaves in the morning before Finlay can offer a position as his mistress. They meet again a year later when Charlotte becomes a school teacher at a charity school that Finlay donates to and his sister had worked at before becoming a duchess. Finlay is in the middle of a campaign for the House of Commons and can’t risk a scandal. Charlotte’s past comes to haunt her and in order to save her Finlay will have to risk everything he’s worked for.
Personal Review: Charlotte is the type of stubborn heroine that I dislike but is very in line with human nature. She is a ‘go it alone or not at all’ type of person when we meet her and stays that way right up until the end. Life has made her jaded towards trusting others due to the people she trusts dying and leaving her alone. Instead of asking for help or at least making her friends aware of her situation she keeps them purposely in the dark and ends up exactly where you would expect her to.
Finlay should be focused on his political career when he is reintroduced to Charlotte. He has the internal struggle of living a life of love or one of duty. I liked his overall arc and where he ends up in the story. He goes from a lost false heir to championing those less fortunate than him.
The writing was good, the story was compelling. Overall I had a good time reading it.
July 14, 2019
You meet Finlay, our hero, in the first book of the series (To Love a Scandalous Rogue). This book can be read as a stand alone but I recommend the first because it gives you a better background of the family scandal, as well as just being really good so I’m going to recommend it anyway 🤣 Finlay is the twin brother of the heroine in book 1.
Finlay and Charlotte have a chance meeting at a house party. Finlay is feeling rather exasperated with the ton life, the parties, and doesn’t realize what is missing until he meets Charlotte.
Charlotte has just lost her husband while living in India. Abandoned and abused by his family, with no money, she is offered a job back in England that she finds she must refuse. They spend the night with each other, sharing their struggles and wants for life. Before Finlay can find who she is and form a lasting relationship she disappears.
The story picks up a year later. Finlay is in the middle of establishing his seat for parliament and trying to make a name for himself despite his father’s reputation. Charlotte has found work teaching at the foundling home.
I loved Finlay as a hero. He is so real and genuine. I really felt his struggle with wanting his career and wanting to love. They do not both come easy, and trying to tip the scale and balance it is a struggle. Charlotte was such a strong heroine as well. Being of Jewish faith, there were laws in place that restricted their rights and marriages during this time. The challenges she goes though with her husbands family are enough to break your heart.
I would have liked the main characters to spend more time together. This book felt a tad divided between Finlay working on the politics aspect of his life and Charlotte working through her past demons and trying to live a peaceful life. I also would have loved to have seen more details of Charlottes Jewish faith. I adored the epilogue so much, because it gave a clearer picture of her religion and how they overcame the struggles.
Flora was a hoot in this book and I’m very very excited to read her story in the next release!
Finlay and Charlotte have a chance meeting at a house party. Finlay is feeling rather exasperated with the ton life, the parties, and doesn’t realize what is missing until he meets Charlotte.
Charlotte has just lost her husband while living in India. Abandoned and abused by his family, with no money, she is offered a job back in England that she finds she must refuse. They spend the night with each other, sharing their struggles and wants for life. Before Finlay can find who she is and form a lasting relationship she disappears.
The story picks up a year later. Finlay is in the middle of establishing his seat for parliament and trying to make a name for himself despite his father’s reputation. Charlotte has found work teaching at the foundling home.
I loved Finlay as a hero. He is so real and genuine. I really felt his struggle with wanting his career and wanting to love. They do not both come easy, and trying to tip the scale and balance it is a struggle. Charlotte was such a strong heroine as well. Being of Jewish faith, there were laws in place that restricted their rights and marriages during this time. The challenges she goes though with her husbands family are enough to break your heart.
I would have liked the main characters to spend more time together. This book felt a tad divided between Finlay working on the politics aspect of his life and Charlotte working through her past demons and trying to live a peaceful life. I also would have loved to have seen more details of Charlottes Jewish faith. I adored the epilogue so much, because it gave a clearer picture of her religion and how they overcame the struggles.
Flora was a hoot in this book and I’m very very excited to read her story in the next release!
May 21, 2019
This is the first book I've read by Ms. DeLaRosa and I enjoyed it. The author tackles some controversial topics and does it pretty well. Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell, is hiding a terrible secret that could destroy his life. He is determined to bring attention to social problems and decides to run for Parliament. When one night of passion with an unknown woman shakes him to his core, he's determined to find her again. A year later he runs across Mrs. Taylor, a widow, teaching in his sister's Foundling Home, and the passion he knew that night is ignited once again. Problem is Charlotte Taylor is a commoner and a Jew--certainly not bride material for the future earl.
Charlotte has her own problems dealing with vindictive former in-laws and meeting Finlay is a distraction she can't afford to indulge in. When events spiral out of control, Finlay may be the only man she can count on to save her life.
The pace of the book was a little slow in the beginning, but by the middle of the book, the pace had picked up. There were a couple of good twists in the book that kept me reading to the end. Readers of historical romances will enjoy this book.
I voluntarily read this book from the publisher and my opinions are my own.
Charlotte has her own problems dealing with vindictive former in-laws and meeting Finlay is a distraction she can't afford to indulge in. When events spiral out of control, Finlay may be the only man she can count on to save her life.
The pace of the book was a little slow in the beginning, but by the middle of the book, the pace had picked up. There were a couple of good twists in the book that kept me reading to the end. Readers of historical romances will enjoy this book.
I voluntarily read this book from the publisher and my opinions are my own.
June 10, 2019
There is so much to like about To Resist a Scandalous Rogue. Fans of historical romance are almost certain to enjoy this book. The hero, Finlay, has a secret looming over his head that could completely ruin his life. And the heroine of this story, Charlotte, is not only a strong, capable woman but she's also Jewish. And so she faces all the unique forms of adversity that come with being a member of a marginalized minority.
The story begins with a one-night stand between Finlay and Charlotte and picks up again a year later...Is it possible that Finlay and Charlotte are meant for more that one night together? (Spoiler Alert: Yes. It's very possible)
The best part of this book for me is the way the author managed to give these two characters their HEA without Charlotte having to sacrifice her heritage or her religious beliefs.
Very well done book! Great characters. Original, intriguing plot. And lots of those romance feels we all live for. I would definitely recommend this book to a fellow romance lover.
To Resist a Scandalous Rogue releases on June 24th. Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy.
The story begins with a one-night stand between Finlay and Charlotte and picks up again a year later...Is it possible that Finlay and Charlotte are meant for more that one night together? (Spoiler Alert: Yes. It's very possible)
The best part of this book for me is the way the author managed to give these two characters their HEA without Charlotte having to sacrifice her heritage or her religious beliefs.
Very well done book! Great characters. Original, intriguing plot. And lots of those romance feels we all live for. I would definitely recommend this book to a fellow romance lover.
To Resist a Scandalous Rogue releases on June 24th. Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy.
May 22, 2019
The book evokes comparisons to O’Henry’s Gifts of the Magi despite not being a holiday themed novel. Charlotte wants to protect Finlay’s chosen career at great cost to herself (imprisonment and transportation) and he, for his part, wants to protect her from evildoing relatives even if it costs him his chosen career (by making public familial secrets). At issue, too, is what happens when there is love across religious lines in a nation that prohibits such a marriage, and exhibits prejudice toward those different from the majority. Other relevant issues are overlooked entirely (sex not only without consequences but without even passing thought of possible consequences). Still, there is respectful love and affection described throughout. While not the usual romance romp, the themes are thought-provoking making it highly suitable as a book club choice. I was provided an advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review and the thoughts and opinions within are wholly my own. I highly recommend this book. #toresistascandalousrogue #netgalley
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2019
Now why would one want to resist a Scandalous Rogue? An unexpected meeting bring two people together for a brief encounter that left an impression on both of them. Each had their own stories. One had a hugh secret that was pressing on him while the other needed to find her way after being left penniless.
This story captured me from the first page and with the wonderful descriptive writing of this author kept me in it's grip until the end!
I loved Charlotte and Finley and as they encountered each other a year later, their inital attration was there there and coming off the pages. Fin, Viscount Firthwell, found Charlotte teaching at his sister's Foundling Home and could not believe he found her there. I definitely think fate had a hand in bringing them back together and regardless of their social differences, their feelings could not be denied.
But both are struggling with their secrets and they may just overwhelm them both! I truly enjoyed this book and have to say the epilogue was wonderful! This author is on my must read list and I cannot wait for her next story!!
This story captured me from the first page and with the wonderful descriptive writing of this author kept me in it's grip until the end!
I loved Charlotte and Finley and as they encountered each other a year later, their inital attration was there there and coming off the pages. Fin, Viscount Firthwell, found Charlotte teaching at his sister's Foundling Home and could not believe he found her there. I definitely think fate had a hand in bringing them back together and regardless of their social differences, their feelings could not be denied.
But both are struggling with their secrets and they may just overwhelm them both! I truly enjoyed this book and have to say the epilogue was wonderful! This author is on my must read list and I cannot wait for her next story!!
June 10, 2019
This is a story about Fin (Viscount Firthwell) and Charlotte. Fin wanted to run for Parliament. Charlotte is a teacher but has a past which can cause trouble for Fin. This book was very interesting from beginning to the end. I think this is the first book which I have read which has a Jewish main character in this time period. Because of this it put an extra obstacle for Fin and Charlotte – they must overcome social class, religion, political ambitions, prison and evil in-laws. You will not be disappointed in reading this book.
This is the first book I read by this author Liana De la Rosa but it will not be the last. The writing was smooth and flowed well. She kept me interested in this story thru the whole book.
I received a free copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
This is the first book I read by this author Liana De la Rosa but it will not be the last. The writing was smooth and flowed well. She kept me interested in this story thru the whole book.
I received a free copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
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