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Rakes and Rogues #1
50 Ways to Ruin a Rake
Mellie has a plan…
Mellie Smithson is trapped in the country with no suitors and no prospects on the horizon except, perhaps, the exasperating—although admittedly handsome—guest of her father. She's looking for any excuse to go to London to meet more eligible men.
Trevor has a problem…
Trevor Anaedsley's grandfather has cut off his funds until such time as he gets engaged. Trevor escapes to the country—ostensibly to visit his old tutor, Mr. Smithson, but actually to duck his creditors—where he meets Smithson's lovely daughter, Mellie. The obvious solution is suddenly before him—but the lady has ideas of her own, and Trevor's going to have to measure up…
Mellie Smithson is trapped in the country with no suitors and no prospects on the horizon except, perhaps, the exasperating—although admittedly handsome—guest of her father. She's looking for any excuse to go to London to meet more eligible men.
Trevor has a problem…
Trevor Anaedsley's grandfather has cut off his funds until such time as he gets engaged. Trevor escapes to the country—ostensibly to visit his old tutor, Mr. Smithson, but actually to duck his creditors—where he meets Smithson's lovely daughter, Mellie. The obvious solution is suddenly before him—but the lady has ideas of her own, and Trevor's going to have to measure up…
1 pages, Audio CD
First published May 5, 2015
120 people are currently reading
1248 people want to read
About the author
Jade Lee
98 books2,978 followersLibrarian Note: Also writes under the pen name Kathy Lyons.
A USA Today Bestseller, JADE LEE has been scripting love stories since she first picked up a set of paper dolls. Ball gowns and rakish lords caught her attention early (thank you Georgette Heyer), and her fascination with the Regency began. An author of more than 40 romance novels and winner of dozens of industry awards, her latest series is RAKES AND ROGUES. The first one, 50 WAYS TO RUIN A RAKE, is an awesome tale of love and laughter.
And don’t forget Kathy Lyons.. She’s Jade’s paranormal half. Check out her new shifter series GRIZZLIES GONE WILD.
To find all the latest news on Jade or Kathy, visit them at www.jadeleeauthor.com or www.kathylyons.com! And find out where you can meet her at: http://jadeleeauthor.com/appearances
A USA Today Bestseller, JADE LEE has been scripting love stories since she first picked up a set of paper dolls. Ball gowns and rakish lords caught her attention early (thank you Georgette Heyer), and her fascination with the Regency began. An author of more than 40 romance novels and winner of dozens of industry awards, her latest series is RAKES AND ROGUES. The first one, 50 WAYS TO RUIN A RAKE, is an awesome tale of love and laughter.
And don’t forget Kathy Lyons.. She’s Jade’s paranormal half. Check out her new shifter series GRIZZLIES GONE WILD.
To find all the latest news on Jade or Kathy, visit them at www.jadeleeauthor.com or www.kathylyons.com! And find out where you can meet her at: http://jadeleeauthor.com/appearances
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
February 2, 2017
I couldn't finish this. I stopped at the 50% mark and have no regrets.
I may try another Jade Lee book in the future though if it appears to have a more somber storyline. Lee is a very talented writer and sweeps you up in a tale that is chaotic, often humorous, and very like Eloisa James in the wide set of eccentric secondary characters.
The problem with this book was that there were too many characters I really didn't like. Trevor is an heir to a dukedom, but boy did he have some growing up to do. He was selfish, immature, and egotistical. He pulled Mellie, a country girl with a mind for science, into a madcap scheme for his own gain while telling her it was the only way she could help herself.
I expected this book to take place in a small town with the characters growing to know each other outside of the ton. This was not the case. The book starts in the country, but soon returns to the ton and then spirals into a farce. When the secondary characters decide to set Mellie up as a "cricket princess" in order to fit in with the ton, I was done. It was too ridiculous and I could see the book ending in a variety of ways, all of which I wouldn't like: cruelty, awkwardness, or unnecessary drama.
Some may find this story amusing, but I didn't like how Mellie was used by everyone in the book, especially because she was the only one who was nice. The writing is good, but the sexy scenes were not so sexy (cue in the word "organ" and a lot of abstract, mechanical verbage), and the characters were haughty and unrelatable.
I may try another Jade Lee book in the future though if it appears to have a more somber storyline. Lee is a very talented writer and sweeps you up in a tale that is chaotic, often humorous, and very like Eloisa James in the wide set of eccentric secondary characters.
The problem with this book was that there were too many characters I really didn't like. Trevor is an heir to a dukedom, but boy did he have some growing up to do. He was selfish, immature, and egotistical. He pulled Mellie, a country girl with a mind for science, into a madcap scheme for his own gain while telling her it was the only way she could help herself.
I expected this book to take place in a small town with the characters growing to know each other outside of the ton. This was not the case. The book starts in the country, but soon returns to the ton and then spirals into a farce. When the secondary characters decide to set Mellie up as a "cricket princess" in order to fit in with the ton, I was done. It was too ridiculous and I could see the book ending in a variety of ways, all of which I wouldn't like: cruelty, awkwardness, or unnecessary drama.
Some may find this story amusing, but I didn't like how Mellie was used by everyone in the book, especially because she was the only one who was nice. The writing is good, but the sexy scenes were not so sexy (cue in the word "organ" and a lot of abstract, mechanical verbage), and the characters were haughty and unrelatable.
February 1, 2023
Summary
Mellie, has zero suitors and prospects since she lives in the country with her father. but there is one man, that she and her father have had the opportunity to work with, Trevor Anaedsley. Mellie has her own goals for her life, including a new formula for a beauty product she hopes will one day be successful. She loves her father, but is lonely at times too. She wants more, but has no idea how to gain that until Trevor offers her a deal. Act as his fiancée and go to London, and have the opportunity to meet other young gentlemen she could set her sights on and marry one day. Trevor has been cut off from all of his funds until he marries, his grandfather is determined to show him the “true path” and Trevor knows he will have to find a way around it. So he decides to offer Mellie a deal, to soften his grandfathers hand. But there is one problem….Trevor is attraction to one woman, a woman he is supposed to help find another man for…he is in big trouble….because he is starting to love her but will he lose her to another man…
The Hero
Trevor has always had an interest in the sciences. He has studied under a respected scientist, and his daughter Mellie. Trevor is also a future lord, he is easy-going and intelligent, but a bit naive at times. He was charming and quite the rogue at times, and I loved how protective he is of Mellie. Trevor is quite cunning and can be creative in his plans, and I enjoyed how he pulls some run around his family and friends. When he wants something, he doesn’t let anyone stand in his way.He was a charming hero, and there were many qualities I liked about him, he never gives up and is very smart and romantic.
The Heroine
Mellie Smithson, is a winning heroine. I grew to really love her. She is spirited and lively, she doesn’t hold back on her opinions, and lets others know what she thinks. She is comfortable with who she is, she is very smart and sassy. I loved her attitude and the ways she views life. She could be a bit more firm in her certain aspects, but overall I grew to admire her overall. I loved the way she fights for what she loves and believes in, and I couldn’t help but adore her strength and courage to face new things with a positive attitude.
Plot and Story Line
I was very excited to read 50 Ways To Ruin A Rake, I have loved Jade Lee for years. I had high hopes for this story, and I did enjoy this story…it was enjoyable and humorous and very entertaining bantering. But I couldn’t fully get into the story like I wanted to. I felt like it was a bit predictable in certain areas, and it didn’t hold my attention like previous books from this author have done. I found other aspects quite enjoyable though, but I think I put my rating a bit lower because I became bored with the plot at times. It felt pretty uneven at times, but what I did love was the entertaining bantering between Mellie and Trevor. Quite a few giggles and snorts, the humor and light and witty and I enjoyed seeing how they interacted with each other. The love story was evenly paced and I felt that it had a consistency that wasn’t true with other portions of the story, which is why I kept with it. The ending was tender and sweet and I love it.
The Cover
Can I say WOW!! I just adore this cover…that sensual pose, with the yellow colors, and I love the tone of the colors. It is probably one of the best covers I have seen all year.
Overall View
50 Ways To Ruin A Rake was a light and sweet romance, a story of humor and wit, poignant romance and following your dreams.
Mellie, has zero suitors and prospects since she lives in the country with her father. but there is one man, that she and her father have had the opportunity to work with, Trevor Anaedsley. Mellie has her own goals for her life, including a new formula for a beauty product she hopes will one day be successful. She loves her father, but is lonely at times too. She wants more, but has no idea how to gain that until Trevor offers her a deal. Act as his fiancée and go to London, and have the opportunity to meet other young gentlemen she could set her sights on and marry one day. Trevor has been cut off from all of his funds until he marries, his grandfather is determined to show him the “true path” and Trevor knows he will have to find a way around it. So he decides to offer Mellie a deal, to soften his grandfathers hand. But there is one problem….Trevor is attraction to one woman, a woman he is supposed to help find another man for…he is in big trouble….because he is starting to love her but will he lose her to another man…
The Hero
Trevor has always had an interest in the sciences. He has studied under a respected scientist, and his daughter Mellie. Trevor is also a future lord, he is easy-going and intelligent, but a bit naive at times. He was charming and quite the rogue at times, and I loved how protective he is of Mellie. Trevor is quite cunning and can be creative in his plans, and I enjoyed how he pulls some run around his family and friends. When he wants something, he doesn’t let anyone stand in his way.He was a charming hero, and there were many qualities I liked about him, he never gives up and is very smart and romantic.
The Heroine
Mellie Smithson, is a winning heroine. I grew to really love her. She is spirited and lively, she doesn’t hold back on her opinions, and lets others know what she thinks. She is comfortable with who she is, she is very smart and sassy. I loved her attitude and the ways she views life. She could be a bit more firm in her certain aspects, but overall I grew to admire her overall. I loved the way she fights for what she loves and believes in, and I couldn’t help but adore her strength and courage to face new things with a positive attitude.
Plot and Story Line
I was very excited to read 50 Ways To Ruin A Rake, I have loved Jade Lee for years. I had high hopes for this story, and I did enjoy this story…it was enjoyable and humorous and very entertaining bantering. But I couldn’t fully get into the story like I wanted to. I felt like it was a bit predictable in certain areas, and it didn’t hold my attention like previous books from this author have done. I found other aspects quite enjoyable though, but I think I put my rating a bit lower because I became bored with the plot at times. It felt pretty uneven at times, but what I did love was the entertaining bantering between Mellie and Trevor. Quite a few giggles and snorts, the humor and light and witty and I enjoyed seeing how they interacted with each other. The love story was evenly paced and I felt that it had a consistency that wasn’t true with other portions of the story, which is why I kept with it. The ending was tender and sweet and I love it.
The Cover
Can I say WOW!! I just adore this cover…that sensual pose, with the yellow colors, and I love the tone of the colors. It is probably one of the best covers I have seen all year.
Overall View
50 Ways To Ruin A Rake was a light and sweet romance, a story of humor and wit, poignant romance and following your dreams.
August 12, 2018
Trevor and Millie
May 5, 2019
DNF. 1 star for effort.
February 15, 2015
This is book 1 in the Not Quite Ladies series.
Trevor Anaedsley is out of money and his grandfather has cut off his funds until he does the right thing and gets engaged. While trying to duck his creditors, he visits his old tutor. While re-acquainting himself with his tutor's daughter, Mellie, he comes up with a plan. Mellie will become his fake fiancee.
When Trevor tells her about his plan, Mellie doesn't know what to think. But she does want to go to London to meet someone so she doesn't have to marry her cousin. As much as she thinks the plan will never work, it might be her only chance at getting married.
What happens when two people find that they don't hate each other as much as they thought they did?
Whenever I pick up a book by Jade Lee, I know I won't be disappointed. Her writing draws me into a book and won't let me put it down until the very last page. 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake is no exception. Full of witty banter and steamy love scenes, Lee will keep you entranced until the very end.
Thanks go out to Sourcebooks via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
Trevor Anaedsley is out of money and his grandfather has cut off his funds until he does the right thing and gets engaged. While trying to duck his creditors, he visits his old tutor. While re-acquainting himself with his tutor's daughter, Mellie, he comes up with a plan. Mellie will become his fake fiancee.
When Trevor tells her about his plan, Mellie doesn't know what to think. But she does want to go to London to meet someone so she doesn't have to marry her cousin. As much as she thinks the plan will never work, it might be her only chance at getting married.
What happens when two people find that they don't hate each other as much as they thought they did?
Whenever I pick up a book by Jade Lee, I know I won't be disappointed. Her writing draws me into a book and won't let me put it down until the very last page. 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake is no exception. Full of witty banter and steamy love scenes, Lee will keep you entranced until the very end.
Thanks go out to Sourcebooks via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
April 26, 2025
The story was not engaging. It takes about half the book to set things up and for the their fake engagement to move forward into the ton. There are not that many likable characters (just like in the second book). I despise Ronnie. Why did he have to keep showing up to cause trouble and frustration? (There was a married couple that kept reappearing in book 2, too.)
The heroines in the first two books of this series has no close friends and I miss reading about that companionship and support system. The hero has a few friends and they make a few appearances (no more than five, if my count is correct) but I didn’t get to know them at all. I can’t even remember their names.
There are many uninteresting and non-relatable side characters. And, did we ever figure out why the duchess (see? Already forgot her name), who owns a modiste shop, needed protection? That she must hire on two of her brother’s former employees to protect her? I felt like that whole chapter should have been scrapped out to make this 11-hour audiobook shorter.
I can’t believe the ladies (the duchess mentioned above and Lady Eleanor and maybe one or two more) helping to introduce Mellie (heroine) into the ton, would think of making her a “cricket princess,” the insect, not the sport! And actually went through with it! 🤦🏻♀️ They put bird feathers all over her dress to give her wings. 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️
I didn’t pay too much attention to the love scene but each kiss was described as a battle of tongues and afterwards, the hero rests his forehead on hers.
I feel like there were some loose ends. Did Mellie ever produce her cream for women successfully and earned a profit? It was the main reason why she agreed to the fake engagement and we don’t know what happened. I wish we could have seen her reconciled with her father.
I won’t be reading anymore from this author for a very long time.
The heroines in the first two books of this series has no close friends and I miss reading about that companionship and support system. The hero has a few friends and they make a few appearances (no more than five, if my count is correct) but I didn’t get to know them at all. I can’t even remember their names.
There are many uninteresting and non-relatable side characters. And, did we ever figure out why the duchess (see? Already forgot her name), who owns a modiste shop, needed protection? That she must hire on two of her brother’s former employees to protect her? I felt like that whole chapter should have been scrapped out to make this 11-hour audiobook shorter.
I can’t believe the ladies (the duchess mentioned above and Lady Eleanor and maybe one or two more) helping to introduce Mellie (heroine) into the ton, would think of making her a “cricket princess,” the insect, not the sport! And actually went through with it! 🤦🏻♀️ They put bird feathers all over her dress to give her wings. 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️
I didn’t pay too much attention to the love scene but each kiss was described as a battle of tongues and afterwards, the hero rests his forehead on hers.
I feel like there were some loose ends. Did Mellie ever produce her cream for women successfully and earned a profit? It was the main reason why she agreed to the fake engagement and we don’t know what happened. I wish we could have seen her reconciled with her father.
I won’t be reading anymore from this author for a very long time.
May 6, 2015
Available now!!!
This is my first Jade Lee book, and it won't be my last. I was thrilled that Ms. Lee doesn't just keep repeating herself. She expects the readers to get the back story, or whatever, the first time she mentions it. Thank you!
Mellie is quite brilliant, with a scientific bent to her mind. She creates chemical concoctions that bring money into the family. I kept expecting something nefarious to come from those who wanted her latest recipe. Either from her uncle or a young man that she meets in London. I also thought there would be some dark story behind her mother's death. That didn't happen either. The red herrings kind of threw me for a loop.
Trevor has known Mellie and her father for a very long time. She's been jealous of the time the two of them spend together as her father mentors his scientific studies, and he's just not looked at her. Until he does. Whoa, she's grown into a beauty, hasn't she? And since they don't really appeal to each other (or do they?) she's just the right sort to help him with his current problem. His grandfather, the duke, has cut off his allowance until he chooses a bride, and while he has money coming it, it won't be available for quite some time. So...a fake fiance is just what he needs, right?
Mellie, while she enjoys her scientific studies a lot, also wants to be loved for herself. She want to love someone, and have babies and enjoy life. She does not want that from her half cousin...Ronnie. Both her father and his seem to think they would make a great match...mostly because then their newly acquired money would stay in the family! They've made the dough and now they want to keep it...no matter that Mellie has said NO at least a dozen times. Made me pretty much want to smack her dad AND Ronnie.
Trevor's proposal of the fake engagement seems to be the only way out for Mellie. They'll be in London. His friend will sponsor her, she'll meet eligible men...and when she throws Trevor over...she can marry one of them.
Ah, yes...the best laid plans and all that. As this is listed as ROMANCE, we all know how this will turn out. That's why we read these! There were laughs, some tears, a turkey (!!!) and plenty of steam in this one.
I did wonder why Trevor didn't just marry his friend, Lady Eleanor, though. They seemed quite suited. Maybe she's waiting for her own book! I also thought, as mentioned earlier, that there was something odd about her mother's death, and the way people kept trying to get her recipe. Again, maybe something will come of that later.
I will be looking for more from Ms. Lee.
Thank you, Sourcebooks and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book.
This is my first Jade Lee book, and it won't be my last. I was thrilled that Ms. Lee doesn't just keep repeating herself. She expects the readers to get the back story, or whatever, the first time she mentions it. Thank you!
Mellie is quite brilliant, with a scientific bent to her mind. She creates chemical concoctions that bring money into the family. I kept expecting something nefarious to come from those who wanted her latest recipe. Either from her uncle or a young man that she meets in London. I also thought there would be some dark story behind her mother's death. That didn't happen either. The red herrings kind of threw me for a loop.
Trevor has known Mellie and her father for a very long time. She's been jealous of the time the two of them spend together as her father mentors his scientific studies, and he's just not looked at her. Until he does. Whoa, she's grown into a beauty, hasn't she? And since they don't really appeal to each other (or do they?) she's just the right sort to help him with his current problem. His grandfather, the duke, has cut off his allowance until he chooses a bride, and while he has money coming it, it won't be available for quite some time. So...a fake fiance is just what he needs, right?
Mellie, while she enjoys her scientific studies a lot, also wants to be loved for herself. She want to love someone, and have babies and enjoy life. She does not want that from her half cousin...Ronnie. Both her father and his seem to think they would make a great match...mostly because then their newly acquired money would stay in the family! They've made the dough and now they want to keep it...no matter that Mellie has said NO at least a dozen times. Made me pretty much want to smack her dad AND Ronnie.
Trevor's proposal of the fake engagement seems to be the only way out for Mellie. They'll be in London. His friend will sponsor her, she'll meet eligible men...and when she throws Trevor over...she can marry one of them.
Ah, yes...the best laid plans and all that. As this is listed as ROMANCE, we all know how this will turn out. That's why we read these! There were laughs, some tears, a turkey (!!!) and plenty of steam in this one.
I did wonder why Trevor didn't just marry his friend, Lady Eleanor, though. They seemed quite suited. Maybe she's waiting for her own book! I also thought, as mentioned earlier, that there was something odd about her mother's death, and the way people kept trying to get her recipe. Again, maybe something will come of that later.
I will be looking for more from Ms. Lee.
Thank you, Sourcebooks and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book.
February 14, 2015
A really sweet and enjoyable historical romance, 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake was a great read. I really liked it.
Mellie was a strong minded heroine. When she set her mind to something, there was no doubt that it would be done. My only issue with her was that she let herself be put into a box and nearly ended up in a miserable life because of that. But, otherwise, I liked her.
Trevor was sweet, though woefully oblivious. He was charming and adorable, but he couldn't see what he had right in front of him. But, I still like him anyway.
The romance was nice. Mellie and Trevor were great together, even though it took them a long time to realize that for themselves.
The plot was well paced, though there were some parts that were slower than others. I enjoyed the story, particularly the bits of humor that were found throughout, and the ending was great.
50 Ways to Ruin a Rake was a lovely historical romance that I enjoyed. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Mellie was a strong minded heroine. When she set her mind to something, there was no doubt that it would be done. My only issue with her was that she let herself be put into a box and nearly ended up in a miserable life because of that. But, otherwise, I liked her.
Trevor was sweet, though woefully oblivious. He was charming and adorable, but he couldn't see what he had right in front of him. But, I still like him anyway.
The romance was nice. Mellie and Trevor were great together, even though it took them a long time to realize that for themselves.
The plot was well paced, though there were some parts that were slower than others. I enjoyed the story, particularly the bits of humor that were found throughout, and the ending was great.
50 Ways to Ruin a Rake was a lovely historical romance that I enjoyed. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 2, 2019
Read on THE CHAPTERS APP.
It is an okay story. There were nice parts, and there were parts that disappointed me or were cringy.
The romance felt added and not laced in the story, it felt rushed and without real substance to the characters and actions.
There was a time when Eleanor said "everyone has a motive, you should find it, and make your motive clear", and it wasn't used. Why would you put a gun on the stage if you won't use it?
Also, it bothered me it was unclear of the time it tried to portray but it was sometimes in the 19th century, in England, and the characters did not sound nor felt as any of that. There was talk of science with modern approach and modern knowledge, the view of the women and about them, the speech pattern, the words used were too modern and too American to fit. It was like it tried to be historical without any research.
Is it ever explained why the book is called like that? I did not seem to find the reason myself unless performing some mental juggling.
That's it
It is an okay story. There were nice parts, and there were parts that disappointed me or were cringy.
The romance felt added and not laced in the story, it felt rushed and without real substance to the characters and actions.
There was a time when Eleanor said "everyone has a motive, you should find it, and make your motive clear", and it wasn't used. Why would you put a gun on the stage if you won't use it?
Also, it bothered me it was unclear of the time it tried to portray but it was sometimes in the 19th century, in England, and the characters did not sound nor felt as any of that. There was talk of science with modern approach and modern knowledge, the view of the women and about them, the speech pattern, the words used were too modern and too American to fit. It was like it tried to be historical without any research.
Is it ever explained why the book is called like that? I did not seem to find the reason myself unless performing some mental juggling.
That's it
January 16, 2016
I found this book to be an amusing read, with fun, likeable characters, add an unwanted beau, a fake engagement, a little romance, and you get this wonderfully entertaining story that will make you laugh and smile from start to finish.
I really enjoyed the story of Trevor and Mellie, they made a great couple, it just took a while for them to realize it. And I loved the epilogue, it was a great ending.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves great, fun, romantic reads.
I really enjoyed the story of Trevor and Mellie, they made a great couple, it just took a while for them to realize it. And I loved the epilogue, it was a great ending.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves great, fun, romantic reads.
July 21, 2015
Better Living Through Chemistry: 50 WAYS TO RUIN A RAKE by Jade Lee (audio)
Original Post 7/21/15 http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
copyright 2015 Stephanie Takes-Desbiens
Audio Book provided by Tantor Audio for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinion presented herein is my own unless otherwise noted.
Mellie is a “bluestocking” who has invented a way of whitening muslin that’s made her family a mint. Now she has invented something that will make more money for her family and they are pushing her to marry her poetic, but lumbering cousin, Ronnie to keep it all in the family. Her family is quite intent on this and she is intent against it, but with no other men around, she needs to get to London and find a man who is not Ronnie.
Mellie would like to travel, marry and then have a family, but she also wants to have the fruit of her labor: control over the money produced through her intellectual property.
Trevor and Mellie have known each other a long time; most of that time each wanted her father’s attention and each became resentful of the other. When he drops in, throwing off her uncle’s and cousin’s plans, they hit on the fake engagement plan and without her father’s blessing head off to London for the “season” so Mellie can be educated into the ways of a duchess.
I found myself feeling quite indignant about her family trying, more or less, to steal from her; force her into a marriage she doesn’t want and try to bully her using her late mother’s depression. I rather wanted Jade Lee to take it farther; to make more of it than she did.
There’s a little cross over from another series by Lee, Bridal Favors, with the overlap at the ennobled owner of a dress shop. According to the author, it is part of that world, but the print publisher has decided to make it a new series. The characters of the Duke and Duchess are from the last book: What the Groom Wants and another character, Lady Helene, is from Wedded in Scandal.
I found myself quite suspicious of Mellie’s sponsor for the season, a friend of her fake fiance. After all, why wouldn’t she herself be looking to marry Trevor. I figured she had an ulterior motive. Actually, everyone in the story seems to have an ulterior motive.
I didn’t really get what happened between Trevor and his family in the course of the fake engagement.
I listened to this while I moved mulch and it proved to be an enjoyable distraction. The narration was fine, the accents and voices were consistent, if not perfect ∞ I thought Ronnie sounded a bit too much like the village idiot. But I generally enjoy Charlotte Anne Dore’s narrations. Her voice is just a tiny bit raspy which gives it a sultry edge.
The end game of the story is kind of ridiculously, fantastically madcap; Lee just let her imagination go wild. Really, really wild. I found it very original, funny, and a little over the top.
All in all this is what I call a great read for a summer day when you want something hot with a funny edge.
Original Post 7/21/15 http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
copyright 2015 Stephanie Takes-Desbiens
Audio Book provided by Tantor Audio for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinion presented herein is my own unless otherwise noted.
Mellie is a “bluestocking” who has invented a way of whitening muslin that’s made her family a mint. Now she has invented something that will make more money for her family and they are pushing her to marry her poetic, but lumbering cousin, Ronnie to keep it all in the family. Her family is quite intent on this and she is intent against it, but with no other men around, she needs to get to London and find a man who is not Ronnie.
Mellie would like to travel, marry and then have a family, but she also wants to have the fruit of her labor: control over the money produced through her intellectual property.
Trevor and Mellie have known each other a long time; most of that time each wanted her father’s attention and each became resentful of the other. When he drops in, throwing off her uncle’s and cousin’s plans, they hit on the fake engagement plan and without her father’s blessing head off to London for the “season” so Mellie can be educated into the ways of a duchess.
I found myself feeling quite indignant about her family trying, more or less, to steal from her; force her into a marriage she doesn’t want and try to bully her using her late mother’s depression. I rather wanted Jade Lee to take it farther; to make more of it than she did.
There’s a little cross over from another series by Lee, Bridal Favors, with the overlap at the ennobled owner of a dress shop. According to the author, it is part of that world, but the print publisher has decided to make it a new series. The characters of the Duke and Duchess are from the last book: What the Groom Wants and another character, Lady Helene, is from Wedded in Scandal.
I found myself quite suspicious of Mellie’s sponsor for the season, a friend of her fake fiance. After all, why wouldn’t she herself be looking to marry Trevor. I figured she had an ulterior motive. Actually, everyone in the story seems to have an ulterior motive.
I didn’t really get what happened between Trevor and his family in the course of the fake engagement.
I listened to this while I moved mulch and it proved to be an enjoyable distraction. The narration was fine, the accents and voices were consistent, if not perfect ∞ I thought Ronnie sounded a bit too much like the village idiot. But I generally enjoy Charlotte Anne Dore’s narrations. Her voice is just a tiny bit raspy which gives it a sultry edge.
The end game of the story is kind of ridiculously, fantastically madcap; Lee just let her imagination go wild. Really, really wild. I found it very original, funny, and a little over the top.
All in all this is what I call a great read for a summer day when you want something hot with a funny edge.
May 16, 2015
50 Ways to Ruin a Rake was a wonderful introduction for me to Jade Lee's books. I will definitely be reading more of her novels.
This story revolves around Melinda, a bluestocking cit, simply meaning she is an intelligent woman whose family has come into money rather than being born into it. She lives secluded with her somewhat eccentric yet intelligent father. She has no prospects of marriage apart from a cousin who drives her insane with his constant unwanted proposals. She wants love and marriage but knows the likelihood of it is very slim.
Trevor is born into money and after his grandfather's death he will become a Duke. He infuriates his grandfather because he refuses to get married. Because of this his grandfather cuts off all Trevor's funds. He finds himself needing to lay low because of some gambling debts he has. He decides the best place to do that is away from London visiting an old friend, his old tutor. The old tutor being none other than Melinda's father. During his stay one thing leads to another and a plan is hatched between Melly (Melinda) and Trevor to pretend to be engaged. He will get access to his funds, and Melly will be able to go to London for a 'season' where she can meet a lot of potential husbands. The plan is that once she meets a man she could love and marry she could then cry off her engagement with Trevor. Something his grandfather should be more than pleased about because although he wants Trevor to marry, he won't want his son marrying beneath him.
As they say, the best laid plans of mice and men often go astray. To find out what happens with Trevor and Melly you need to read the book. Suffice to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the story. There are some hysterically funny scenes which had me laughing out loud. One involving a Turkey!! There are duels and dances, some hot passionate loving and laughter, tears and heartbreak. This book has it all, and once I started reading it, I just couldn't put it down until I finished it. There isn't one negative think I can find to say about the story.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This story revolves around Melinda, a bluestocking cit, simply meaning she is an intelligent woman whose family has come into money rather than being born into it. She lives secluded with her somewhat eccentric yet intelligent father. She has no prospects of marriage apart from a cousin who drives her insane with his constant unwanted proposals. She wants love and marriage but knows the likelihood of it is very slim.
Trevor is born into money and after his grandfather's death he will become a Duke. He infuriates his grandfather because he refuses to get married. Because of this his grandfather cuts off all Trevor's funds. He finds himself needing to lay low because of some gambling debts he has. He decides the best place to do that is away from London visiting an old friend, his old tutor. The old tutor being none other than Melinda's father. During his stay one thing leads to another and a plan is hatched between Melly (Melinda) and Trevor to pretend to be engaged. He will get access to his funds, and Melly will be able to go to London for a 'season' where she can meet a lot of potential husbands. The plan is that once she meets a man she could love and marry she could then cry off her engagement with Trevor. Something his grandfather should be more than pleased about because although he wants Trevor to marry, he won't want his son marrying beneath him.
As they say, the best laid plans of mice and men often go astray. To find out what happens with Trevor and Melly you need to read the book. Suffice to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the story. There are some hysterically funny scenes which had me laughing out loud. One involving a Turkey!! There are duels and dances, some hot passionate loving and laughter, tears and heartbreak. This book has it all, and once I started reading it, I just couldn't put it down until I finished it. There isn't one negative think I can find to say about the story.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 14, 2015
3.5 stars
I don't even know where to begin with this review. This book was so different from any Jade Lee book I have ever read. Usually her books are serious, angst filled dramatic reads with dashes of humor and sexy love scenes. This book was a light hearted farce (for lack of a better word).
I didn't like Trevor at the beginning of the book. I thought he was a snob. But he stated to grow on me - but he will never be book boyfriend material. And Mellie wasn't much better - she is bland. Not stupid, not shrewish, not a doormat - but nothing special either. They weren't awful characters and it was great to revisit Radley, Wendy, Helaine and even Lady Eleanor - remember her from the last book, What a Groom Wants? Well she hasn't changed and I still can't decide if I like her or not - she has moments that I hate her and others where I think I like her and that I think she isn't what she appears to be.
This book had me laughing at times and rolling my eyes at other times. Some of the scenes in this book were just over the top ridiculous - too silly/stupid to even be funny.
I finished the book and knew for a fact I would not read it again. But I don't regret reading it. It is just not what I expected from Ms Lee.
And while this book wasn't what I had hoped for, I will definitely read the next book.
I don't even know where to begin with this review. This book was so different from any Jade Lee book I have ever read. Usually her books are serious, angst filled dramatic reads with dashes of humor and sexy love scenes. This book was a light hearted farce (for lack of a better word).
I didn't like Trevor at the beginning of the book. I thought he was a snob. But he stated to grow on me - but he will never be book boyfriend material. And Mellie wasn't much better - she is bland. Not stupid, not shrewish, not a doormat - but nothing special either. They weren't awful characters and it was great to revisit Radley, Wendy, Helaine and even Lady Eleanor - remember her from the last book, What a Groom Wants? Well she hasn't changed and I still can't decide if I like her or not - she has moments that I hate her and others where I think I like her and that I think she isn't what she appears to be.
This book had me laughing at times and rolling my eyes at other times. Some of the scenes in this book were just over the top ridiculous - too silly/stupid to even be funny.
I finished the book and knew for a fact I would not read it again. But I don't regret reading it. It is just not what I expected from Ms Lee.
And while this book wasn't what I had hoped for, I will definitely read the next book.
Read
May 14, 20153.5 stars
I don't even know where to begin with this review. This book was so different from any Jade Lee book I have ever read. Usually her books are serious, angst filled dramatic reads with dashes of humor and sexy love scenes. This book was a light hearted farce (for lack of a better word).
I didn't like Trevor at the beginning of the book. I thought he was a snob. But he stated to grow on me - but he will never be book boyfriend matter. And Mellie wasn't much better - she is bland. Not stupid, not shrewish, not a doormat - but nothing special either. They weren't awful characters and it was great to revisit Radley, Wendy, Helaine and even Lady Eleanor - remember her from the last book, What a Groom Wants? Well she hasn't changed and I still can't decide if I like her or not - she has moments that I hate her and others where I think I like her and that I think she isn't what she appears to be.
This book had me laughing at times and rolling my eyes at other times. Some of the scenes in this book were just over the top ridiculous - too silly/stupid to even be funny.
I finished the book and knew for a fact I would not read it again. But I don't regret reading it. It is just not what I expected from Ms Lee.
And while this book wasn't what I had hoped for, I will definitely read the next book.
I don't even know where to begin with this review. This book was so different from any Jade Lee book I have ever read. Usually her books are serious, angst filled dramatic reads with dashes of humor and sexy love scenes. This book was a light hearted farce (for lack of a better word).
I didn't like Trevor at the beginning of the book. I thought he was a snob. But he stated to grow on me - but he will never be book boyfriend matter. And Mellie wasn't much better - she is bland. Not stupid, not shrewish, not a doormat - but nothing special either. They weren't awful characters and it was great to revisit Radley, Wendy, Helaine and even Lady Eleanor - remember her from the last book, What a Groom Wants? Well she hasn't changed and I still can't decide if I like her or not - she has moments that I hate her and others where I think I like her and that I think she isn't what she appears to be.
This book had me laughing at times and rolling my eyes at other times. Some of the scenes in this book were just over the top ridiculous - too silly/stupid to even be funny.
I finished the book and knew for a fact I would not read it again. But I don't regret reading it. It is just not what I expected from Ms Lee.
And while this book wasn't what I had hoped for, I will definitely read the next book.
February 14, 2015
The storyline of a Victorian gentleman aiding a lady in her search for a decent husband, and then them falling in love, isn't a new one. But Jade Lee has a way of making any storyline uniquely her own. Mellie is a unique Victorian heroine, in that she's extremely intelligent and very outspoken. She doesn't particularity like Trevor, her father's apprentice who steals too much of the man's time away from her, but she soon sees him as the means to an end. Throw in her overbearingly romantic cousin, a true lady of the ton willing to chaperon, and a few misunderstandings between two people who don't think they actually like each other, and you have a cute, funny romance that doesn't disappoint with the steam love scenes. A great read for lovers of romance, hot Victorian heroes, historical romance, and unique heroines.
February 15, 2015
This was a great historical romance, a great story about life, love, and the difficulty of class, and family expectations.
This is a story about the changing state of noble stature to merchant success that embraces both.
A smart blue stocking, and a duke's heir fake an engagement to get her out of an unwanted courtship, and him out of the threat of financial ruin.
But trying to keep things impersonal, and unemotional does not work so well!
FULL REVIEW will be released closer to the book's release...
Check J.A. Kenney's Blog in MAY 2015!
This is a story about the changing state of noble stature to merchant success that embraces both.
A smart blue stocking, and a duke's heir fake an engagement to get her out of an unwanted courtship, and him out of the threat of financial ruin.
But trying to keep things impersonal, and unemotional does not work so well!
FULL REVIEW will be released closer to the book's release...
Check J.A. Kenney's Blog in MAY 2015!
May 10, 2015
50 Ways to Ruin a Rake is a fun and amusing historical romance. It is totally different from the last book I read by Jade lee, this one was more light, refreshing and made me laugh throughout the whole story.
Mellie is intelligent and bluestocking, looking for a way to go to London and find true love.
Trevor is a duke's heir, whom his grandfather has cut his fund off until he gets engaged.
The fake engagement seemed a perfect solution for both Mellie and Trevor until............
I really enjoyed reading this fun and amusing story with likable characters.
Thank you Jade Lee
Mellie is intelligent and bluestocking, looking for a way to go to London and find true love.
Trevor is a duke's heir, whom his grandfather has cut his fund off until he gets engaged.
The fake engagement seemed a perfect solution for both Mellie and Trevor until............
I really enjoyed reading this fun and amusing story with likable characters.
Thank you Jade Lee
August 26, 2015
I received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Sourcebooks Casablanca.
Jade Lee has been a fantastic writer for as long as I've been reading her work. She creates realistic characters and a worlds so rich that I fall in love the moment I begin. Her stories are fun, they're full of heart and always remain true to the soul of the story. I loved the mix of comedy and the romance between Trevor and Mellie. Its a great mix that builds up to love that is believable and honest even behind the sham. 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake is a delightful read.
Jade Lee has been a fantastic writer for as long as I've been reading her work. She creates realistic characters and a worlds so rich that I fall in love the moment I begin. Her stories are fun, they're full of heart and always remain true to the soul of the story. I loved the mix of comedy and the romance between Trevor and Mellie. Its a great mix that builds up to love that is believable and honest even behind the sham. 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake is a delightful read.
dnf
June 2, 2017Ah, romance. When the hero stealth attack kisses the heroine out of nowhere, "taking from her before she had the wherewithal to refuse" and then has the audacity to refuse to take the blame for his actions.
So I removed myself from the book on her account.
This was only 50 pages in, and I was already not completely sold. I will endure a lot for a fake engagement trope, but the characters were ridiculous, and the plot was flimsy. Then this happened, and I was quite frankly happy to set it aside.
So I removed myself from the book on her account.
This was only 50 pages in, and I was already not completely sold. I will endure a lot for a fake engagement trope, but the characters were ridiculous, and the plot was flimsy. Then this happened, and I was quite frankly happy to set it aside.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2022
What a delightful book from Jade Lee! Cute, cute, cute. Engaging characters, clever situations. The humor was consistently throughout the book. PLUS it was very sensual! The funniest story yet from an author I know to be a very funny person. She should write more books like this! The heroine was sensible and focused (most of the time), but the hero didn't know what hit him. Cute dynamics. I enjoyed it from cover to cover.
May 6, 2015
I received this from Netgalley/ Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This was a great historical read. I loved the hero in this one. He was so funny. It was entertaining watching the characters grow together. I think this series is going to be a great read. Looking forward to the next one.
May 9, 2015
Loved! Loved! Loved! Jade brings romance to a whole new level of humor with a twist of heartbreak. I laughed, I cried (most cried) I felt what Trevor and Mellie felt for each other and what they were going through. I wanted to yell and scream wen Mellie did and wanted to show Trevor where he went wrong. Jade Lee is a great writer and a wonderful person. Can't wait for her next book to come out!
February 9, 2015
My full Review can be found at http://priscillasbookshelf.weebly.com...
I gave this story a 4.5 star rating. The story was filled with humor that made it a light, refreshing read. I enjoyed watching the struggles between the main characters. A great London Ton book.
I gave this story a 4.5 star rating. The story was filled with humor that made it a light, refreshing read. I enjoyed watching the struggles between the main characters. A great London Ton book.
June 5, 2015
The book was good, but I was not able to warm up to the hero, I just didn't like him which kept me from really enjoying the book.
For more romance reviews, check out my website:https://katherinasbooks.wordpress.com
For more romance reviews, check out my website:https://katherinasbooks.wordpress.com
August 10, 2015
Laugh out loud moments ! Loved this book - 5 stars
April 3, 2019
This was just ... lots of ugh. It was so much nonsense that I could barely keep my attention on it.
November 11, 2019
Mellie (Melinda) Smithson lives and works with her father in the country. Her only prospect is her half-cousin Ronnie, whose romantic notions miss their mark and leave Mellie exhausted and annoyed. She wants to be her own business woman, but her uncle and father won’t support it because it’s not a “proper woman’s” place.
Trevor is the grandson of a duke and second in line for the dukedom. He is Mellie’s father’s student and loves her father as his own. Trevor never had time for Mellie until he realizes she may be the answer to all his problems. His grandfather has cut him off until Trevor gets engaged. Knowing Mellie needs a way out from her uncle and cousin and to find a husband of her own, he proposes and whisks her off to London for a limited-time engagement.
50 Ways to Ruin a Rake is a lovely frenemies-to-lovers, fake relationship historical romance. Mellie and Trevor go into the arrangement knowing they don’t suit and looking for mutually beneficial results to their individual problems. However, once they start spending time together, they realize they actually like each other and are extremely attracted to one another. While his actions and thoughts are pretty arrogant and distasteful at times, Trevor’s character is pretty much on the mark for a man of the ton. He may like Mellie, but knows as a country cit, she is beneath his station and both would suffer if they went through with any type of real relationship.
But with the help of Trevor’s female friends, Mellie becomes the darling of the season, and many of men desire her. Unfortunately, after spending so much time with Trevor, she knows she has fallen in love, and no one else measures up. Her journey is both entertaining and heartbreaking as she navigates London society.
Narration: The story is shared in 3rd person POV, switching between Mellie and Trevor. The narrator stays female, but the dialogue alters. Ms. Dore uses a British accent and I enjoyed it; however, I am not an expert on accents and don’t know how period/class appropriate it is. Her narrator voice has a slight rasp and I found it enjoyable overall. Trevor voice isn’t overly deep, but it is distinguishable as male and as his voice. Each character had a unique and distinct speaking voice. Ms. Dore infused her characters with appropriate emotion, most especially the love-struck Ronnie and overly frustrated Mellie.
Overall, I really enjoyed 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake, and I plan to see what comes next for these Rakes and Rogues.
My Ratings:
Story: B+
Narration: B+
Trevor is the grandson of a duke and second in line for the dukedom. He is Mellie’s father’s student and loves her father as his own. Trevor never had time for Mellie until he realizes she may be the answer to all his problems. His grandfather has cut him off until Trevor gets engaged. Knowing Mellie needs a way out from her uncle and cousin and to find a husband of her own, he proposes and whisks her off to London for a limited-time engagement.
50 Ways to Ruin a Rake is a lovely frenemies-to-lovers, fake relationship historical romance. Mellie and Trevor go into the arrangement knowing they don’t suit and looking for mutually beneficial results to their individual problems. However, once they start spending time together, they realize they actually like each other and are extremely attracted to one another. While his actions and thoughts are pretty arrogant and distasteful at times, Trevor’s character is pretty much on the mark for a man of the ton. He may like Mellie, but knows as a country cit, she is beneath his station and both would suffer if they went through with any type of real relationship.
But with the help of Trevor’s female friends, Mellie becomes the darling of the season, and many of men desire her. Unfortunately, after spending so much time with Trevor, she knows she has fallen in love, and no one else measures up. Her journey is both entertaining and heartbreaking as she navigates London society.
Narration: The story is shared in 3rd person POV, switching between Mellie and Trevor. The narrator stays female, but the dialogue alters. Ms. Dore uses a British accent and I enjoyed it; however, I am not an expert on accents and don’t know how period/class appropriate it is. Her narrator voice has a slight rasp and I found it enjoyable overall. Trevor voice isn’t overly deep, but it is distinguishable as male and as his voice. Each character had a unique and distinct speaking voice. Ms. Dore infused her characters with appropriate emotion, most especially the love-struck Ronnie and overly frustrated Mellie.
Overall, I really enjoyed 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake, and I plan to see what comes next for these Rakes and Rogues.
My Ratings:
Story: B+
Narration: B+
November 30, 2017
A celebration of romantic comedy & the idiocy of men...
Wonderfully fun romantic comedy. Put aside any cynicism and strict adherence to protocol. This is a deliberately farfetched tale of the oddity of love and its victims.
The romance had a touch sweetness and the love scenes had wicked sensuality. And the men- sexy, interesting, and lovable yet farcical characters. Just like reality at times.
Recommend for those who enjoy a lighthearted romance with a bit of farce and a dash of heat. 3.5🌠
Wonderfully fun romantic comedy. Put aside any cynicism and strict adherence to protocol. This is a deliberately farfetched tale of the oddity of love and its victims.
The romance had a touch sweetness and the love scenes had wicked sensuality. And the men- sexy, interesting, and lovable yet farcical characters. Just like reality at times.
Recommend for those who enjoy a lighthearted romance with a bit of farce and a dash of heat. 3.5🌠
March 24, 2021
Actual Rating: 1.5 stars
Okay. How to summarize. I read this as part of an impromptu harlequin book club. It wasn't good, but I understand there are people that enjoy reading this genre. Despite that:
The spicy scenes were pretty bad. The characters did not have much personality. The epilogue was the most redeeming quality while “Ronnie sat in the dirt at a crossroads and contemplated murder” because of a turkey. If there was even ONE mention of an actual garden rake, this would actually be a 2-star read.
I also learned there are, in fact, genres I don't like to read :)
Okay. How to summarize. I read this as part of an impromptu harlequin book club. It wasn't good, but I understand there are people that enjoy reading this genre. Despite that:
The spicy scenes were pretty bad. The characters did not have much personality. The epilogue was the most redeeming quality while “Ronnie sat in the dirt at a crossroads and contemplated murder” because of a turkey. If there was even ONE mention of an actual garden rake, this would actually be a 2-star read.
I also learned there are, in fact, genres I don't like to read :)
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