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Once Upon a Bride #1
My Fair Lord
Well-bred, well-dressed, and well-read, Henrietta, Harriet, and Hero are best friends who have bonded over good books since their schooldays. Now these cultured ladies are ready to make their own happy endings—each in her own way . . .
Lady Henrietta Parker, daughter of the Earl of Blakemoor, has turned down many a suitor for fear that the ton’s bachelors are only interested in her wealth. But despite the warnings of her dearest friends, Harriet and Hero, she can’t resist the challenge rudely posed by her stepsister: transform an ordinary London dockworker into a society gentleman suitable for the “marriage mart.” Only after a handshake seals the deal does Retta fear she may have gone too far . . .
When Jake Bolton is swept from the grime of the seaport into the elegance of Blakemoor House, he appears every inch the rough, cockney working man who is to undergo Retta’s training in etiquette, wardrobe, and elocution. But Jake himself is a master of deception—with much more at stake than a drawing room wager. But will his clandestine mission take second place to his irresistible tutor, her intriguing proposal . . . and true love?
Lady Henrietta Parker, daughter of the Earl of Blakemoor, has turned down many a suitor for fear that the ton’s bachelors are only interested in her wealth. But despite the warnings of her dearest friends, Harriet and Hero, she can’t resist the challenge rudely posed by her stepsister: transform an ordinary London dockworker into a society gentleman suitable for the “marriage mart.” Only after a handshake seals the deal does Retta fear she may have gone too far . . .
When Jake Bolton is swept from the grime of the seaport into the elegance of Blakemoor House, he appears every inch the rough, cockney working man who is to undergo Retta’s training in etiquette, wardrobe, and elocution. But Jake himself is a master of deception—with much more at stake than a drawing room wager. But will his clandestine mission take second place to his irresistible tutor, her intriguing proposal . . . and true love?
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2017
79 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
Wilma Counts
19 books38 followersBefore moving to Nevada in 1994, Wilma Counts taught high school English and social studies in Germany to dependents of American forces stationed there. She loved the kids, but hated meaningless paperwork. She especially enjoyed her work with Advance Placement English, Model United Nations, and student exchanges with a Russian school.
Wilma grew up in Oregon, a product of the Leave It To Beaver era. She holds degrees in education and international relations. Having traveled widely, she is keenly interested in politics and international relations. She freely admits to being a C-SPAN junkie.
A member of the Romance Writers of America, she has written two Regency novels and a novella for Zebra. Willed to Wed is slated for publication in September, '99, and My Lady Governess in February, '00. Her current projects include another Regency and a novel set in the American West. She contributes a regular column on grammar and usage to the local RWA newsletter. Besides her interest in travel and writing, Wilma is an avid reader and she loves to cook, garden, and gamble—not necessarily in that order.
Wilma grew up in Oregon, a product of the Leave It To Beaver era. She holds degrees in education and international relations. Having traveled widely, she is keenly interested in politics and international relations. She freely admits to being a C-SPAN junkie.
A member of the Romance Writers of America, she has written two Regency novels and a novella for Zebra. Willed to Wed is slated for publication in September, '99, and My Lady Governess in February, '00. Her current projects include another Regency and a novel set in the American West. She contributes a regular column on grammar and usage to the local RWA newsletter. Besides her interest in travel and writing, Wilma is an avid reader and she loves to cook, garden, and gamble—not necessarily in that order.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 15, 2017
I've given this a C- at AAR, so that's 2.5 stars rounded up.
The first in her new Once Upon a Bride series, Wilma Counts’ My Fair Lord is exactly what one would infer from such a title; a Pygmalion inspired tale with the principal roles reversed. Our Covent Garden flower-seller is morphed into a London dockworker by the name of Jake Bolton and our professor is Lady Henrietta (Retta) Parker, eldest daughter of the Earl of Blakemoor, who is goaded into accepting a wager proposed by one of her sisters, that she – Retta – could transform “any worker off the London docks” into “your typical gentlemen of the ton.” It’s a popular trope (and the best version of it in historical romance, to my mind, is still Judith Ivory’s The Proposition), but unfortunately, in Ms. Counts’ hands it makes for rather a dull, pedestrian read, mostly because there’s a lot of telling and not much showing and there’s a distinct lack of chemistry between the principals.
Lady Henrietta is the only child of the Earl of Blakemoor from his first marriage, and she is several years older than her younger half-siblings, twins Gerald and Richard, and daughters Rachel and Miranda. The countess – her step-mother – resents Henrietta and, of course, favours her own children, something which wouldn’t bother Retta quite so much if it weren’t for the fact that her father knows it and does nothing about it. Disgruntled because the countess prevented her accompanying them to Vienna (where the Earl is to attend the Congress) and needled by the constant catty remarks made by her sisters over the fact that Retta is more or less on the shelf, she allows her irritation to get the better of her and is manoeuvred into making the above mentioned wager with spiteful Rachel. While her eldest brother, Gerald, urges caution, Retta’s stubborn streak won’t allow her to back down in the face of her sisters’ mockery, and the bet is made, even as Retta’s common sense tells her it’s a bad idea.
The search for a suitable subject starts the following day down at the docks and eventually settles upon Jake Bolton, who is, to say the least, surprised at the proposal set before him. But as luck would have it, his being installed in the London home of the Blakemoors could be just the thing Jake needs in order to uncover the identity of the person – or persons – responsible for leaking important government information which could undermine England’s negotiations in Paris and Vienna. For Jake is no dockworker; he’s Major Lord Jacob Bodwyn, a military officer and third son of the Duke of Holbrook who has been temporarily seconded to the Foreign Office on the orders of his commanding officer, the Duke of Wellington. The Blakemoors, along with several other prominent families, all of whom have varying degrees of access to sensitive information, have been under discreet surveillance for a while, and his removal to Blakemoor house will allow Jake to do some more close-up snooping.
The family comes up with a cover story to account for Jake’s presence, and his ‘education’ begins. It’s not long before Retta is feeling the first stirrings of an inappropriate attraction and Jake is feeling much the same, frustrated at having to maintain his cover around Retta. Their ‘lessons’ enable the pair to spend a fair bit of time together, while Jake sets about accomplishing his task, his observations leading him to suspect that one or two members of the household are very likely engaged in treasonous activities.
The premise is an intriguing one and promised much, but is let down by the execution, which is stodgy and lacks any sense of urgency in the suspense/espionage plotline. The opening chapter, which introduces Retta (and I really dislike that diminution of Henrietta – I keep typing Hetta and having to change it!) and her two sequel-bait friends is basically one long info-dump, and as I said earlier, there is a lot of telling and not much showing throughout, which makes for an extremely low-key, lacklustre romance. We’re told Retta is attracted to Jake and that she is bothered by it given the difference in their stations; we’re told Jake is attracted to Retta, but I was shown nothing to convince me of the connection I was asked to believe was growing between them. Jake enjoys their “verbal sparring and sharing of views” – but we are rarely privy to any of these sparring and sharing sessions. We’re told near the end of the book that Jake and Retta have spent a lot of time together over the four months of the experiment, but they don’t actually spend much time together on the page; most of the time, we are given a brief run-down of what happened after the fact.
There is pretty much no sexual tension between the couple and their first kiss is decidedly prosaic, with no build up to it whatsoever – unless you count build up as the author telling us two or three pages earlier that it’s going to happen:
A kiss perhaps? A kiss. What would that be like with Jake? She shook her head.
No. It simply could not – must not – happen.
But then it did. The very next day.
I also wasn’t wild about the fact that Retta, in an attempt to stomp out her attraction to Jake, decides to accept the attentions of other men, going driving or to the theatre or opera and other social events with a couple of other beaux. One of them is a gentleman whose proposal she had recently turned down, and it takes her a while to realise that she’s giving him false hope; I found it hard to believe she didn’t know what she was doing and really didn’t like her for it.
On a positive note, I did enjoy the familial relationships Retta has with her brothers, who are far more affectionate than her sisters, and with her uncle and aunt, who both credit and respect Retta’s intelligence and don’t try to interfere with her scheme even though they have their doubts about it. The author nicely contrasts these relationships with Jake’s longing for his own family, whom he hasn’t seen in a decade, and his sadness and frustration that he can’t be reunited with them – or even let them know he is back in England – while he is carrying out his mission.
On a technical note – I read an advance copy of the book, and there’s a large error I hope is corrected before publication which is that two chapters appear to have been transposed; there is an ‘incident’ referred to at the beginning of Chapter 16 that doesn’t happen until the middle of Chapter 17.
I’m consigning My Fair Lord to the ‘could have been better’ pile. Uninspired prose, unmemorable characters and a poorly written romance contrive to make it a book I can’t recommend.
The first in her new Once Upon a Bride series, Wilma Counts’ My Fair Lord is exactly what one would infer from such a title; a Pygmalion inspired tale with the principal roles reversed. Our Covent Garden flower-seller is morphed into a London dockworker by the name of Jake Bolton and our professor is Lady Henrietta (Retta) Parker, eldest daughter of the Earl of Blakemoor, who is goaded into accepting a wager proposed by one of her sisters, that she – Retta – could transform “any worker off the London docks” into “your typical gentlemen of the ton.” It’s a popular trope (and the best version of it in historical romance, to my mind, is still Judith Ivory’s The Proposition), but unfortunately, in Ms. Counts’ hands it makes for rather a dull, pedestrian read, mostly because there’s a lot of telling and not much showing and there’s a distinct lack of chemistry between the principals.
Lady Henrietta is the only child of the Earl of Blakemoor from his first marriage, and she is several years older than her younger half-siblings, twins Gerald and Richard, and daughters Rachel and Miranda. The countess – her step-mother – resents Henrietta and, of course, favours her own children, something which wouldn’t bother Retta quite so much if it weren’t for the fact that her father knows it and does nothing about it. Disgruntled because the countess prevented her accompanying them to Vienna (where the Earl is to attend the Congress) and needled by the constant catty remarks made by her sisters over the fact that Retta is more or less on the shelf, she allows her irritation to get the better of her and is manoeuvred into making the above mentioned wager with spiteful Rachel. While her eldest brother, Gerald, urges caution, Retta’s stubborn streak won’t allow her to back down in the face of her sisters’ mockery, and the bet is made, even as Retta’s common sense tells her it’s a bad idea.
The search for a suitable subject starts the following day down at the docks and eventually settles upon Jake Bolton, who is, to say the least, surprised at the proposal set before him. But as luck would have it, his being installed in the London home of the Blakemoors could be just the thing Jake needs in order to uncover the identity of the person – or persons – responsible for leaking important government information which could undermine England’s negotiations in Paris and Vienna. For Jake is no dockworker; he’s Major Lord Jacob Bodwyn, a military officer and third son of the Duke of Holbrook who has been temporarily seconded to the Foreign Office on the orders of his commanding officer, the Duke of Wellington. The Blakemoors, along with several other prominent families, all of whom have varying degrees of access to sensitive information, have been under discreet surveillance for a while, and his removal to Blakemoor house will allow Jake to do some more close-up snooping.
The family comes up with a cover story to account for Jake’s presence, and his ‘education’ begins. It’s not long before Retta is feeling the first stirrings of an inappropriate attraction and Jake is feeling much the same, frustrated at having to maintain his cover around Retta. Their ‘lessons’ enable the pair to spend a fair bit of time together, while Jake sets about accomplishing his task, his observations leading him to suspect that one or two members of the household are very likely engaged in treasonous activities.
The premise is an intriguing one and promised much, but is let down by the execution, which is stodgy and lacks any sense of urgency in the suspense/espionage plotline. The opening chapter, which introduces Retta (and I really dislike that diminution of Henrietta – I keep typing Hetta and having to change it!) and her two sequel-bait friends is basically one long info-dump, and as I said earlier, there is a lot of telling and not much showing throughout, which makes for an extremely low-key, lacklustre romance. We’re told Retta is attracted to Jake and that she is bothered by it given the difference in their stations; we’re told Jake is attracted to Retta, but I was shown nothing to convince me of the connection I was asked to believe was growing between them. Jake enjoys their “verbal sparring and sharing of views” – but we are rarely privy to any of these sparring and sharing sessions. We’re told near the end of the book that Jake and Retta have spent a lot of time together over the four months of the experiment, but they don’t actually spend much time together on the page; most of the time, we are given a brief run-down of what happened after the fact.
There is pretty much no sexual tension between the couple and their first kiss is decidedly prosaic, with no build up to it whatsoever – unless you count build up as the author telling us two or three pages earlier that it’s going to happen:
A kiss perhaps? A kiss. What would that be like with Jake? She shook her head.
No. It simply could not – must not – happen.
But then it did. The very next day.
I also wasn’t wild about the fact that Retta, in an attempt to stomp out her attraction to Jake, decides to accept the attentions of other men, going driving or to the theatre or opera and other social events with a couple of other beaux. One of them is a gentleman whose proposal she had recently turned down, and it takes her a while to realise that she’s giving him false hope; I found it hard to believe she didn’t know what she was doing and really didn’t like her for it.
On a positive note, I did enjoy the familial relationships Retta has with her brothers, who are far more affectionate than her sisters, and with her uncle and aunt, who both credit and respect Retta’s intelligence and don’t try to interfere with her scheme even though they have their doubts about it. The author nicely contrasts these relationships with Jake’s longing for his own family, whom he hasn’t seen in a decade, and his sadness and frustration that he can’t be reunited with them – or even let them know he is back in England – while he is carrying out his mission.
On a technical note – I read an advance copy of the book, and there’s a large error I hope is corrected before publication which is that two chapters appear to have been transposed; there is an ‘incident’ referred to at the beginning of Chapter 16 that doesn’t happen until the middle of Chapter 17.
I’m consigning My Fair Lord to the ‘could have been better’ pile. Uninspired prose, unmemorable characters and a poorly written romance contrive to make it a book I can’t recommend.
August 22, 2017
A reverse My Fair Lady but with a twist ^_^
Lady Henrietta Parker, daughter of an Earl, has turned down many possible suitors that she fears are just fortune hunters. Then despite her friends concerns she agrees to a challenge her stepsister poses that she transform a dockworker into a gentleman. The "dockworker" in question is not all he appears to be and the both of them get swept up in more than just winning the wager.
Lady Henrietta Parker, daughter of an Earl, has turned down many possible suitors that she fears are just fortune hunters. Then despite her friends concerns she agrees to a challenge her stepsister poses that she transform a dockworker into a gentleman. The "dockworker" in question is not all he appears to be and the both of them get swept up in more than just winning the wager.
August 25, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for sending me an advance copy of this book. A regency romance which I found hard to put down. It was a good length. The storyline was original and had romance and a bit of mystery built in. The characters were believable and all in all it was a very good read. I think fans of this genre will really enjoy it.
October 13, 2017
4.5 stars
Well-bred, well-dressed, and well-read, Henrietta, Harriet, and Hero are best friends who have bonded over good books since their schooldays. Now these cultured ladies are ready to make their own happy endings—each in her own way . . .
Lady Henrietta Parker, daughter of the Earl of Blakemoor, has turned down many a suitor for fear that the ton’s bachelors are only interested in her wealth. But despite the warnings of her dearest friends, Harriet and Hero, she can’t resist the challenge rudely posed by her horrid stepsister - to transform an ordinary London dockworker into a society gentleman suitable for an evening at Almacks the “marriage mart.” Only after a handshake seals the deal does Retta fear she may have gone too far
When Jake Bolton is swept from the grime of the docks into the elegance of Blakemoor House, he appears every inch the rough, cockney working man who is to undergo Retta’s training in etiquette, wardrobe, and elocution. However Jake himself is a master of deception with much more at stake than a drawing room wager, he also has his secrets
Pygmalion in reverse or was it? I read this captivating book with a smile on my face. The premise of the bet was ludicrous but it worked. Jake‘s accent & demeanour all added to this delightful book & his transformation & lapses all added to the enjoyment. We learned that he was a Duke’s son but Retta didn’t know so her elocution lessons were so amusing, then there was the waltz that was just so hot. Even when Jake played the piano Retta didn’t think it strange that he played so well. The characterisation was good & the plot well paced. I just really really enjoyed it & look forward to Hero & Harriet’s stories
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Well-bred, well-dressed, and well-read, Henrietta, Harriet, and Hero are best friends who have bonded over good books since their schooldays. Now these cultured ladies are ready to make their own happy endings—each in her own way . . .
Lady Henrietta Parker, daughter of the Earl of Blakemoor, has turned down many a suitor for fear that the ton’s bachelors are only interested in her wealth. But despite the warnings of her dearest friends, Harriet and Hero, she can’t resist the challenge rudely posed by her horrid stepsister - to transform an ordinary London dockworker into a society gentleman suitable for an evening at Almacks the “marriage mart.” Only after a handshake seals the deal does Retta fear she may have gone too far
When Jake Bolton is swept from the grime of the docks into the elegance of Blakemoor House, he appears every inch the rough, cockney working man who is to undergo Retta’s training in etiquette, wardrobe, and elocution. However Jake himself is a master of deception with much more at stake than a drawing room wager, he also has his secrets
Pygmalion in reverse or was it? I read this captivating book with a smile on my face. The premise of the bet was ludicrous but it worked. Jake‘s accent & demeanour all added to this delightful book & his transformation & lapses all added to the enjoyment. We learned that he was a Duke’s son but Retta didn’t know so her elocution lessons were so amusing, then there was the waltz that was just so hot. Even when Jake played the piano Retta didn’t think it strange that he played so well. The characterisation was good & the plot well paced. I just really really enjoyed it & look forward to Hero & Harriet’s stories
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 23, 2017
This was one of those unfortunate stories that is fairly forgettable. I liked that the author chose to include a "spy" aspect in the story, even if sometimes it felt more "historical spy" novel and less "historical romance" novel. I liked the chemistry such as it was between the two main characters, however I do feel like Jake should have been more honest with her. Technically, she does enter the bet under false pretenses, and it would have served him right if her sister had declared her a loser, even though Henrietta herself did not know the truth.
I did think there were some aspects of this story that were a little too "out there" to be believable. To begin with, I find it very hard to believe that even with him being the third son of a Duke, none of their friends from the ton recognized him. Regardless of the fact he had been gone for awhile, someone still should have recognized him. I also find it hard to believe that her aunt was so accommodating of her plan. Throughout the story, it is repeatedly brought up how much scandal there would be if their plan were found out, however, that doesn't seem to deter those who should "know better".
Overall, I am sure this story appeal to those who enjoy a well written historical romance novel that includes something a little less traditional. I would read more from this author.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
I did think there were some aspects of this story that were a little too "out there" to be believable. To begin with, I find it very hard to believe that even with him being the third son of a Duke, none of their friends from the ton recognized him. Regardless of the fact he had been gone for awhile, someone still should have recognized him. I also find it hard to believe that her aunt was so accommodating of her plan. Throughout the story, it is repeatedly brought up how much scandal there would be if their plan were found out, however, that doesn't seem to deter those who should "know better".
Overall, I am sure this story appeal to those who enjoy a well written historical romance novel that includes something a little less traditional. I would read more from this author.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
October 6, 2017
Rated 3.5!
Lady Henrietta "Retta" Parker usually keeps her wits about her, but when her sister offers up a challenge, Retta has had enough. She finds herself accepting a wager she never should have entered into. Retta must take a dockworker off the streets and turn him into a gentleman in a few short months. If Retta cannot do it, she will lose her most prized possession, her favorite horse.
Jake Bolton is a little suspicious when a gentleman approaches and asks him to meet with him after work. Jake is thrown for a loop when the meeting is governed by a lady, and what she is asking him to do is preposterous. Since it will aid him in his job spying for the Home Office, Jake agrees. Suddenly, he finds himself playing many different parts. Can Jake keep his true identity a secret until his mission ends? What will Retta think of him when the truth is all revealed?
MY FAIR LORD is highly entertaining. I could not put it down. The characters are so alive and the details are so vivid that it just brings life to the story. The only issue I had is the affair Jake and Retta had before the truth came to light. I feel like he took advantage of Retta even though Jake left the ultimate decision up to her. Nevertheless, Jake certainly makes up for it in the end. I am looking forward to author Wilma Counts' next installment in her ONCE UPON A BRIDE series.
Lady Henrietta "Retta" Parker usually keeps her wits about her, but when her sister offers up a challenge, Retta has had enough. She finds herself accepting a wager she never should have entered into. Retta must take a dockworker off the streets and turn him into a gentleman in a few short months. If Retta cannot do it, she will lose her most prized possession, her favorite horse.
Jake Bolton is a little suspicious when a gentleman approaches and asks him to meet with him after work. Jake is thrown for a loop when the meeting is governed by a lady, and what she is asking him to do is preposterous. Since it will aid him in his job spying for the Home Office, Jake agrees. Suddenly, he finds himself playing many different parts. Can Jake keep his true identity a secret until his mission ends? What will Retta think of him when the truth is all revealed?
MY FAIR LORD is highly entertaining. I could not put it down. The characters are so alive and the details are so vivid that it just brings life to the story. The only issue I had is the affair Jake and Retta had before the truth came to light. I feel like he took advantage of Retta even though Jake left the ultimate decision up to her. Nevertheless, Jake certainly makes up for it in the end. I am looking forward to author Wilma Counts' next installment in her ONCE UPON A BRIDE series.
September 28, 2018
3.5 out of 5 stars
September 17, 2017
I love stories like this, where one person attempts to change another person to help them fit it! Obviously this story is more complicated than that, but it's along the same lines as so many other similar tales. My favorite being The Proposition by Judith Ivory (if you like this book, go try that one on for size). What made this particular story so much fun was that the reader knows the whole time that the "London dockworker" is actually the son of a duke! Exciting times for our heroine, as she doesn't find out until much later.
Lady Henrietta Parker has agreed to an outrageous bet with her stepsister - transform an ordinary London dockworker into a society gentleman suitable for the "marriage mart", or else she will lose her horse given to her by her father. Angry at her stepsister, she immediately agrees, and her stepsister chooses a dockworker who is as coarse in speech as he is handsome in appearance. Try as she might, Retta is going to have a hard time withstanding this man's ample charm. What she doesn't know is that this "ordinary dockworker" is actually Lord Jacob Bodwyn, the third son of the Duke of Holbrook, and he's on a mission for the Foreign Office. He doesn't need the distraction of a pretty, humble society miss, but that's just what he gets when he agrees to aid her in her bet. Now both must hide how they feel if they are to succeed - Retta in her bet and Jake in his mission.
I loved the chemistry between Retta and Jake, even though it was frustrating at times that he kept such a huge secret from her. It's understandable, but it also meant that their romance was slow in coming. But once they got there, oh, how romantic! They fit together perfectly, and I was happy that they each found love with each other in spite of all the obstacles in their path. I particularly like the quote below, towards the end of the book, when they are speaking hypothetically of a couple (who is really them):
"But it is not merely a matter of loving another person, is it? The world always has a way of intruding."
He leaned closer to her and placed an arm around her shoulders, aware of that woody-floral scent she always wore. "Devil take the world," he said in that same soft tone and kissed her very, very thoroughly.
Fans of My Fair Lady will love this book! I am eager to read the next in the series.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
Lady Henrietta Parker has agreed to an outrageous bet with her stepsister - transform an ordinary London dockworker into a society gentleman suitable for the "marriage mart", or else she will lose her horse given to her by her father. Angry at her stepsister, she immediately agrees, and her stepsister chooses a dockworker who is as coarse in speech as he is handsome in appearance. Try as she might, Retta is going to have a hard time withstanding this man's ample charm. What she doesn't know is that this "ordinary dockworker" is actually Lord Jacob Bodwyn, the third son of the Duke of Holbrook, and he's on a mission for the Foreign Office. He doesn't need the distraction of a pretty, humble society miss, but that's just what he gets when he agrees to aid her in her bet. Now both must hide how they feel if they are to succeed - Retta in her bet and Jake in his mission.
I loved the chemistry between Retta and Jake, even though it was frustrating at times that he kept such a huge secret from her. It's understandable, but it also meant that their romance was slow in coming. But once they got there, oh, how romantic! They fit together perfectly, and I was happy that they each found love with each other in spite of all the obstacles in their path. I particularly like the quote below, towards the end of the book, when they are speaking hypothetically of a couple (who is really them):
"But it is not merely a matter of loving another person, is it? The world always has a way of intruding."
He leaned closer to her and placed an arm around her shoulders, aware of that woody-floral scent she always wore. "Devil take the world," he said in that same soft tone and kissed her very, very thoroughly.
Fans of My Fair Lady will love this book! I am eager to read the next in the series.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
September 15, 2017
I liked this book. It was entertaining and has good characters. I would have given it a five star except for two things. First, chapters 16 and 17 are out of order, they need switched. Chapter 16 talks of the maid Annie's past and that it won't be held against her, and Jake saving her, and then in Chapter 17 Annie's past is revealed and Jake saves her. My second objection to the book, I don't care for sex scenes. There is one and I will admit it is not very descriptive, but I feel they are not needed and they are not romantic in the least.
I like the storyline. It's fun. The ending is good, though I probably would have had more of a discussion between Retta and Jake at the end of the book when she discovers his secrets. I feel like they allowed their issues to dissolve without working through them.
I do recommend this book and I will read more from this author, just be aware that there is a sex scene.
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway.
I like the storyline. It's fun. The ending is good, though I probably would have had more of a discussion between Retta and Jake at the end of the book when she discovers his secrets. I feel like they allowed their issues to dissolve without working through them.
I do recommend this book and I will read more from this author, just be aware that there is a sex scene.
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway.
September 19, 2017
I enjoyed reading this book, and it was exactly what I was in the mood to read. The premise was fun, it wasn't dark or twisted or depressing.... and it hit the mark on what I was looking for. Overall, it was a quick, lighthearted and enjoyable book with well developed characters and a interesting plot.
September 14, 2017
It was a nice read,not very surprising,but fun.
My Fair Lord ,is nothing more or less,dan a reverse
My Fair Lady with a little twist here and there.
At first it was a bit difficult to get in to the story.
But I am glad,that I kept on reading.
it was fun and well written.
If You like receny with a twist/fairytaile story.
than you can`t go wrong with this one.
ARC was provided in exchange for an review
My Fair Lord ,is nothing more or less,dan a reverse
My Fair Lady with a little twist here and there.
At first it was a bit difficult to get in to the story.
But I am glad,that I kept on reading.
it was fun and well written.
If You like receny with a twist/fairytaile story.
than you can`t go wrong with this one.
ARC was provided in exchange for an review
September 5, 2017
A good read and definitely a buy buy buy buy book!
Fans of this genre will definitely get into this book fast! I was! From the characters to the plot to the way the story unfolds, you will go through an entire range of emotions while reading. Disbelief, laughter, frustration, heart warming, anger, irritation and just plain enjoyment! I will definitely keep my eyes open for the rest of this series for it was a truly enjoyable read for me. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom
Fans of this genre will definitely get into this book fast! I was! From the characters to the plot to the way the story unfolds, you will go through an entire range of emotions while reading. Disbelief, laughter, frustration, heart warming, anger, irritation and just plain enjoyment! I will definitely keep my eyes open for the rest of this series for it was a truly enjoyable read for me. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom
September 6, 2017
This book is based on the older story of My Fair Lady, only this time a high society English woman picks a man off the street to train into a gentleman after making a bet. He is not what he seems and they of course, fall in love. The relationship is complicated by his secret identity and spy mission. I could not wait for the end to find out how she finds out the truth and what happens. I enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance.
August 28, 2017
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I had a very hard time getting through this book. It had a great premise but was a very slow read. The story was just okay and because I was given an uncorrected copy it made it hard to enjoy it. I have read many books before they go to the publisher and never had as many problems as I did with this. The story could have been shorter and faster. I also did not like the epilogue it randomly switched the tense that it was written in. Just wasn't a fan!
October 16, 2017
London - 1814
Lady Henrietta (Retta) Georgiana Parker is the eldest daughter of the Earl of Blakemoor. Her stepmother is a harsh woman who does not approve of Retta. The young woman has several siblings both from her father and mother and from her step-mother. The Countess, as she is to be addressed, sent Retta away to school while her own children were schooled at home. Retta’s step-siblings are rude and contentious. England has been celebrating the defeat of Napoleon and his consignment to the island of Elba.
Today, Retta is enjoying the company of her good friends, the Honorable Harriet Mayfield and Miss Hero Whitby. The three young ladies had attended Miss Penelope Pringle’s Academy for Young Ladies of Quality. All three young ladies had lost their mothers. They enjoy reading and working to garner funds to help the poor.
Unfortunately, Retta’s half siblings enjoy harassing her for not having married yet. Retta simply feels that many of the eligible young men don’t have much intelligence and enjoy nothing more than their simple pleasures. When pressured by them, Retta agrees to a wager that she can take a simple worker. dress him up, teach him to talk, and then one couldn’t tell him from a true gentleman. So, off to the docks they go to find someone.
At the docks, they talk to Jack Bolton who seems to be the perfect person they can transform into a gentleman. Little do they know that he is an agent for the Foreign Office and has been watching Retta’s father and stepmother during their current trip to Vienna as they are suspected of some clandestine activity. In addition, Jake is the son of the Duke of Holbrook and had been sent away to serve in the army after one too many times misbehaving. He has grown to love the army and even after receiving a large inheritance, chooses to stay there.
This story is way too busy for my interests. Too many characters and too much intrigue. I prefer a true romance novel, not a spy novel.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Lady Henrietta (Retta) Georgiana Parker is the eldest daughter of the Earl of Blakemoor. Her stepmother is a harsh woman who does not approve of Retta. The young woman has several siblings both from her father and mother and from her step-mother. The Countess, as she is to be addressed, sent Retta away to school while her own children were schooled at home. Retta’s step-siblings are rude and contentious. England has been celebrating the defeat of Napoleon and his consignment to the island of Elba.
Today, Retta is enjoying the company of her good friends, the Honorable Harriet Mayfield and Miss Hero Whitby. The three young ladies had attended Miss Penelope Pringle’s Academy for Young Ladies of Quality. All three young ladies had lost their mothers. They enjoy reading and working to garner funds to help the poor.
Unfortunately, Retta’s half siblings enjoy harassing her for not having married yet. Retta simply feels that many of the eligible young men don’t have much intelligence and enjoy nothing more than their simple pleasures. When pressured by them, Retta agrees to a wager that she can take a simple worker. dress him up, teach him to talk, and then one couldn’t tell him from a true gentleman. So, off to the docks they go to find someone.
At the docks, they talk to Jack Bolton who seems to be the perfect person they can transform into a gentleman. Little do they know that he is an agent for the Foreign Office and has been watching Retta’s father and stepmother during their current trip to Vienna as they are suspected of some clandestine activity. In addition, Jake is the son of the Duke of Holbrook and had been sent away to serve in the army after one too many times misbehaving. He has grown to love the army and even after receiving a large inheritance, chooses to stay there.
This story is way too busy for my interests. Too many characters and too much intrigue. I prefer a true romance novel, not a spy novel.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 25, 2017
I received this book in a giveaway, so I will return this kindness with an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I really liked how the perspectives went back and forth between Retta and Jake. A scene would happen in Retta's POV, then Jake's POV would begin leading up to the same scene, revealing his thoughts and feelings in the moment. The dramatic irony was strong with this one. The reader knows Jake's true identity and how he prepares himself to behave like a dockworker in front of Retta, while the rest of the characters aren't suspicious of a thing. The romantic attraction between Retta and Jake was presented in a slow burn, which I found to be done naturally. Too often I read of characters immediately falling in love, confessing, or getting physical, when naturally, especially in the time period, it would not be realistic. This book, however, was done the right way, in my opinion. Honestly, it had everything I would want: strong female character that speaks her mind, a period drama, a spy trying to do his job and falling in love along the way, action, romance. Even for someone who forgets the premise of My Fair Lady (until it was brought to my attention), this book is such an interesting and fun read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I really liked how the perspectives went back and forth between Retta and Jake. A scene would happen in Retta's POV, then Jake's POV would begin leading up to the same scene, revealing his thoughts and feelings in the moment. The dramatic irony was strong with this one. The reader knows Jake's true identity and how he prepares himself to behave like a dockworker in front of Retta, while the rest of the characters aren't suspicious of a thing. The romantic attraction between Retta and Jake was presented in a slow burn, which I found to be done naturally. Too often I read of characters immediately falling in love, confessing, or getting physical, when naturally, especially in the time period, it would not be realistic. This book, however, was done the right way, in my opinion. Honestly, it had everything I would want: strong female character that speaks her mind, a period drama, a spy trying to do his job and falling in love along the way, action, romance. Even for someone who forgets the premise of My Fair Lady (until it was brought to my attention), this book is such an interesting and fun read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2017
Henrietta has turned down quite a few proposals. She knows the men are in love with her wealth and not her. Because of this, she assumes she'll never marry. When her stepsister goads her in to accepting a dare, she heads to the docks to choose a man that she can change into a gentleman to win the bet. If she loses, she'll lose her beloved horse. But she doesn't realize that Jake is not an ordinary dock worker. He's undercover for his country and now must play the part of a low born dock worker when in his natural environment. It just might be the act of a lifetime.
This was such a fun and entertaining story. The characters fit well with each other. There were some slightly suspenseful moments, humor, and sweet romance. There are a couple of "bedroom scenes", but the book is mainly about the interactions of the main female character and her family and the man she's training to be a gentleman. The story ended well, but left an opening for the next book in the series. I thought the author wrote a great romance and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts expressed are my own.
This was such a fun and entertaining story. The characters fit well with each other. There were some slightly suspenseful moments, humor, and sweet romance. There are a couple of "bedroom scenes", but the book is mainly about the interactions of the main female character and her family and the man she's training to be a gentleman. The story ended well, but left an opening for the next book in the series. I thought the author wrote a great romance and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts expressed are my own.
October 14, 2017
Henrietta Georgiana Parker, Retta, entered into a bet with her sister, Rebecca. Retta would teach a dockworker, how to be a gentleman and in five months and present him to the ladies of Almack's. Lord Jacob Theodore Bodwyn, third son of the Duke of Holbrook, Wellington sends to England to discover a spy ring.
There is a lot of things happening in this story, the spy ring, murder, Fairfax House in Spitalfields, attempted kidnapping, and treason. The characters are funny, sensual, and so full of life. She teaches him how to speak, to dress and to ride, as well as dancing. You can read the emotion in the dialogue, when it speaks of the love Retta has for her brothers, as an example. The tale, while complex has been woven into a mesmerizing book, it keeps your interest and keeps you reading. I loved when the siblings got together they always bantered back and forth. Rebecca trying to get the better of Retta and the gang jumping in with their two cents worth.
I received this ARC free and voluntarily reviewed it.
There is a lot of things happening in this story, the spy ring, murder, Fairfax House in Spitalfields, attempted kidnapping, and treason. The characters are funny, sensual, and so full of life. She teaches him how to speak, to dress and to ride, as well as dancing. You can read the emotion in the dialogue, when it speaks of the love Retta has for her brothers, as an example. The tale, while complex has been woven into a mesmerizing book, it keeps your interest and keeps you reading. I loved when the siblings got together they always bantered back and forth. Rebecca trying to get the better of Retta and the gang jumping in with their two cents worth.
I received this ARC free and voluntarily reviewed it.
May 17, 2022
This was the first book in the series and I’m glad I read it last. I found it very boring compared to the other two books. It was Pygmalion turned around except it wasn’t really as the hero was the third son of a Duke pretending to be a dock worker. The mystery was boring. Henrietta as a character was well written but there was hardly any chemistry between Jake and Henrietta. Overall a lot of detailed writing about nothing interesting.
October 21, 2017
My Fair Lord by Wilma Counts is the first book in the series "Once Upon a Bride".
This book reminds be of the movie My Fair Lady but instead in the subject is a 'Lord".
Also has a dab of the evil Step mother type story. But overall I enjoyed this story. It was a nice change in past from other stories I have read. Sweet and easy read!
This book reminds be of the movie My Fair Lady but instead in the subject is a 'Lord".
Also has a dab of the evil Step mother type story. But overall I enjoyed this story. It was a nice change in past from other stories I have read. Sweet and easy read!
June 23, 2019
Can he or can’t he
This was a fast, easy read. The author has a way with words that keep your attention. This is a “My Fair Lady” type story butte person being groomed to appear to society is male. However, he has secrets that he cannot reveal. Will he be a success. Can he keep his secrets. Only time will tell.
This was a fast, easy read. The author has a way with words that keep your attention. This is a “My Fair Lady” type story butte person being groomed to appear to society is male. However, he has secrets that he cannot reveal. Will he be a success. Can he keep his secrets. Only time will tell.
October 2, 2018
MY FAIR LORD: ONCE UPON A BRIDE : Is a nice, clean story. The heroine is bold and feisty and the hero loves her from the get go. It takes 70% of the book for them to actually get together, a bit tedious for me.... tolerable with some spy work along the way.
December 4, 2018
Such a fine read!
Ticks every box. Intrigue, good history, accurate Regency, fine romance, and great characters. Could use some light editing for skipped words and several grammar gaffes.
Ticks every box. Intrigue, good history, accurate Regency, fine romance, and great characters. Could use some light editing for skipped words and several grammar gaffes.
August 16, 2021
What a good read! Spinster sister, the bet - her horse if she loses, can she turn a "dock worker" into being worthy of the ton, is he really a dock worker, and don't forget the espionage. A page turner that keeps you guessing, cheering, guessing, hoping - fun!
October 20, 2017
I love a blue stocking lady - pair her with some spy intrigue, a duke’s son in disguise and a bit of bed sport and you pretty much have My Fair Lord, my dream historical romance.
December 12, 2017
Really enjoyed this and highly recommend it to Regency fans.
September 21, 2018
It really took a long time to get where we always knew it was heading. Not terrible but so predictable.
October 24, 2018
Lovely
Wonderful characters and a well developed story that was completely plausible. Good insight into the times and use of the history to weave a very romantic tail.
Wonderful characters and a well developed story that was completely plausible. Good insight into the times and use of the history to weave a very romantic tail.
February 21, 2019
fun! My Fair Lady with a twist or two or...what if the imposter is an imposter
September 29, 2021
I liked this, but found the indiscretions at the end unnecessary.
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