Only a Viscount Will Do
597378
The love that slowly develops between Callum and Alice makes this story a feel good tale. I loved the bandit theme and the turning of tables. Alice and Victoria taking charge is priceless. A nice read.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
4119507
it was a very good book i liked how it was not very dramatic it was writen well you should the nexted one after you finish this its called "a viscounts daughter"
2658707
Manners should be used as a means to ease all social situations ... not as a club to beat up others you feel are beneath you.  I guess the countess didn't get that lesson.
3893387
Knole is an English country home in Kent and is owned by the Sackville-West family. The house has been considered a "calendar house"; it has 365 rooms, 52 staircases, 12 entrances, and 7 courtyards. (To anyone reading this review, your new term-for-the-day is "calendar house". See what you can learn!) In his new book, "The Disinherited: A Story of Family, Love, and Betrayal", Robert Sackville-West - the current Baron Sackville - looks at his family history and the bitter court fight early in the 1900's between family members about ownership of the house and the title - Baron Sackville - that went with it.

British rules of inheritance for aristocratic families tend to follow the law of primogeniture, or the right of the first born son to inherit the family estate. If the family has no son - and daughters don't count in the scheme of things - the estate will go to the closest collateral male relative. I assume these things usually work out for the best, but in 1869, a crisis hit the Sackville-West family. George Sackville-West died and the title and house went to the family's fourth son, Lionel Sackville-West. Lionel, as a son way down the line of inheritance, had gone into the diplomatic corp, and while living and working in Germany, he met a young Spanish woman, named "Pepita". Pepita - who had hair down to her knees - was a dancer, castanets and all. The two fell in love - or lust - and proceeded to produce a family of seven children, five who reached adulthood.

The problem was that Lionel and Pepita never married. She was his social inferior, and, anyway, she was already married. Lionel supported Pepita and the children as best he could, though they never lived together as a family. He would drop in to their house on the French coast for a while. Pepita died at the age of 40 in childbirth, and Lionel was forced to deal with the situation, which he did by educating the children and, in the case of his three daughters, taking them with him on his diplomatic postings. Everybody knew the children were illegitimate but they were accepted as his children. If Lionel - the family's fourth son - hadn't inherited the title, the question of the children's legitimacy would have probably remained a bit thorny but workable.

However, once Lionel WAS 2nd Baron Sackville, the fight to lay claim to the title by his sons, began. Lionel was a bit haphazard about things; he would say sometimes he and Pepita were married and the children were legitimate; at other times he seemed to be in on the joke and said, "no, we never married". When questioned in court during the many trials of son vs father, Lionel would admit to signing a paper but then would say he rarely looked at what he was signing. (Not a very good trait for a diplomat and he did lose his posting in Washington as British Ambassador when he wrote a very indiscreet letter to an American politician.)

One of the children, the eldest daughter, was named Victoria. She was devoted to her father and ended up marrying her first cousin, also named Lionel. They had one child, a daughter, the writer Vita Sackville-West. Of the five children of Lionel and Pepita, she married the most advantageously. Her long life was spent in and out of courts, either litigating or being sued herself, and she was on famously bad relations with her siblings. They resented her marrying her cousin and having a house - Knole - and a life-style beyond their means.

Robert Sackville-West's book is a lively look at a famous family and the times they lived in. Curiously, there are other books dealing with British men who fathered children by social inferiors and how they were accepted/treated by their families and society at large.
3783107
The only way she could find to make money. I wonder how she could criticize Marion Crawford for her "saccharine" account of her life with the princesses...the composition style is the same. The difference? "My cousin the Queen," "My cousin the Princess Royal," "My uncle the King"...a name dropper.
4357396
Lord Trent grew up admiring the relationship of his parents. He saw them in an amorous and sincere marriage in their home. His older brother would probably marry first and that was fine with him because he wanted to take his time finding the perfect match. After all, his brother was the first born and bound to be the next Duke. But as they say, there are traps everywhere; wealthy and prominent people must watch their steps. So with honor attached to his character, he finds himself in a precarious private situation with a lovely but mousy girl as he does some exploring on a nearby estate. He must marry without love or scandalize his family name and ruin her name. How will God direct their lives through the days of living when you never even courted? Faith and Grace. Read and enjoy this warm tale.

This book was provided by Bethany Books. All opinions in this review are my own. Mary Young Robinson, Boise, ID.
3277380
Brentan Montgomery, Earl of Charfield, has one abiding passion.  That is his stable of prize Arabian horses and Harrison Prescott, Marquess of Fellingsdown has just offered a colt from his excellent Arabian stock.  But for a price.  Brent must escort his sister, Lady Elyssa Prescott, for a two week house party.

Lady Prescott is beautiful, but she has suffered a childhood accident that has left her with a limp.  This affliction causes her family to hover over her trying to insure her happiness, thus, the house party.  it seems that Lady Elyssa has a secret admirer who is unacceptable, so her brother hatches a plan to deflect Lady Elyssa's attention.

Ms Landon delivers not one, but two great love stories in one book.  Harrison Prescott, Marquess of Fellingsdown, meets a love interest, also at this house party.  His three brothers have picked guests that may be marriage prospects, also.  Unraveling all these love stories is pure pleasure.  There is even a suspense thread that winds through this tale.  If you want romance in spades, be sure to read this book, or any of Ms. Landon's books.
1539414
Six years ago, Sir Stephen Ball was in love with his sister?s best friend Laura. But, although she was fond of Stephen and they spent many hours together talking and playing chess, she wanted excitement, and so she accepted the proposal of Hal Gardeyne, a noted Corinthian and son of a viscount. Now, Laura is widowed, and Stephen, now an MP, wants to try again. So he finds an excuse to visit her home one month away from the end of her period of mourning, hoping to get in first and begin courting her before a more dashing man can cut him out once more.

Laura, now mother to the three-year-hold heir to the Caldfort title, is terrified that her brother-in-law, vicar of the Caldfort living, plans to bring about the death of little Harry in order to inherit the title himself. But she can?t take Harry away from the Caldfort estate, cold and unwelcoming as it is, because his grandfather won?t allow her to take him away for more than a few days at a time. So she?s trapped there. When Stephen arrives, she is nursing Harry back to health after a poison scare - was it deliberate or accidental? So she is in no fit state to welcome a former suitor, especially a man whom she laughed at when he proposed to her during her engagement to Hal.

But the discovery of a possible claimant to the Caldfort title, who would displace not only Harry and his uncle but the current holder too, affords Laura an opportunity to get away from Caldfort. She decides to investigate to find out whether Henry Gardeyne, her husband?s cousin, really is alive, and Stephen, seizing an opportunity, comes with her to help her. And thus begins a journey through the West Country, some of it in disguise, taking in Redoaks and Crag Wyvern, meeting again Nicholas and Eleanor and David Kerslake, soon to be Earl of Wyvern.

The dramatic plot to this book really doesn?t hold the attention. I was not at all interested in whether Jack Gardeyne really was trying to kill his nephew, nor in the question of whether the other Henry Gardeyne was really alive. The sneaking around, rummaging through other people?s correspondence and listening through walls and doors was not only uninteresting, it was somewhat distasteful - and surprising, given Stephen?s position as an MP and lawyer and the efforts of the other Rogues, in earlier books and spelled out in this book, to keep Stephen away from anything questionable. The fact that this part of the plot moves very slowly does not help.

I?m still not sure whether I liked Laura or not. Is she sensible, intelligent and thoughtful, or a flighty flibbertigibbet? She doesn?t seem to know herself, and I acknowledge that this is part of the journey: she married young, at 18, when she was flighty and valued title and good looks above character. She seems to have become sensible enough for Stephen, and I did enjoy their philosophical conversations. But she kept changing her mind about herself and her intentions, which was frustrating.

I did like Stephen, whom I didn?t know very much about; his role in previous Rogue books has been limited. Some reviewers seem to be complaining about the lack of sensual content; I?d strongly disagree here. There is quite a bit of sexual tension, which is enjoyable, and the sexual content is about right. For me, St Raven was overly laden with sex scenes, and less interesting as a novel as a result.

It was also good, as always, to see Nicholas and Eleanor again; disappointing not to see other Rogues, however - no advance on Hal and Blanche?s story here - and somewhat irritating to have the Kerslake/Wyvern connection, since Demon?s Mistress (Con?s story, set at Crag Wyvern) is my least favourite Rogues novel and I really disliked the characters and setting. I even find myself hoping here that Beverley isn?t setting up David Kerslake as a future hero...

Overall, far from Beverley's best - some of the other Rogue books are far, far better than this one.

wmr-uk
78521
Bullies come in all forms.  And they come in the form of small petite ladies. Lady Beatryce Beckett was a terrible bully. She was mean and spiteful and ruined anyone that got in her way.  She would even be mean purely just to be mean.  To say she was not liked would be an exaggeration.  Who could like her?

The Marquess of Dansbury didn't like her, at all. At first, he thought she was attractive.  But then, he was treated to her behavior.  He finds her presence repulsive.  This strong, charming, extremely handsome man who rarely found any lady distasteful found this one very objectionable.  Dansbury is a man of optimism. He always sees the glass half full.  However, being charged to protect this dreadful woman clouded his day. But having sworn an oath as an honorable spy for the British Government, he will see this assignment through, even if he would rather not.

Beatryce is thrilled. She was attracted to the Marquess of Dansbury while betrothed to the Duke.  Who could not be?  But she never gets as much as the time of day from this man. How could she possibly be so lucky as to have him protect her?  Her only objective was her freedom.  She wants to find a life, safe, away from the danger of the assassin.  It can be a simple life.  To leave her father, she was willing to marry the Duke, a man she knew she could barely tolerate. But that plan fizzled when her beautiful good cousin came into the picture. If only she could trust him.  But she couldn't trust anyone.  Everyone in her life has failed her.  She realized that she could only depend on herself.  No one understood what she wanted in life  just a life, a simple little life.  They never bothered to know her, find out who she was.  Yes, she is mean, but that is because she is frightened and because people have hurt her. She needs to protect herself because she only has herself.  Well, correction.  For now she has the Marquess of Dansbury to protect her. She may survive this somehow.

Two extraordinarily good-looking people, mutual attraction and lack of trust can lead to quite an adventure. The Marquess of Danbury might have hated the thought of protecting her, but he could never deny the attraction for her. And Beatryce knew that there was an attraction towards him. Dansbury is one of the most efficient trackers, and therefore, most deft at not being tracked, in the country. Yet he finds the assassin seems to be almost in lock step with them.  Could there be someone on the inside that is a trader to the Crown?  How will the Marquess and Lady Beatryce endure each others company for what could be a very long time?  Can they possibly not act on their attraction for one another, or will something more menacing loom in their future?

Amy Quintons second story in her Agents of Change series comes to life on page one and never slows down until you close the book.  Beatryce and Dansbury find themselves in so many odd situations, with barely a step in front of the man that would possibly kill them both.  The question ishow?  And who is the assassin?  Quinton fills her pages with humor, mystery and of course, lots of great romance.  The reader, and I can speak from experience, just hangs on, turning the pages as fast as they can turn.  I think she is a new writer with an old writers soul.  Quinton writes as if this is her fiftieth book instead of just her second.  Her story is witty, her plot is fresh, and her characters spring to life.  You honest-to-goodness like the mean, bully Beatryce!  How does that happen?  Read the book and find out.

This is definitely a five star book.  Be sure and put this one in your cart!
1286793
My only real criticism of the story is the use to the title "Count" for Lethbridge.  I'm not aware of that title being used in the English nobility.  Lady Lethbridge would be a countess, but her husband would be Earl Lethbridge.  Continental Europe I believed used the title Count but not England.  In addition, titles and land were usually held together (entailed).  I'm not sure with the demise of her husband whether Maddie would obtain any real property, money for sure, as a jointure or in her case a trust set aside for her. Again, this is annoying, Major Hal is considering selling his father's estate to cover the gambling debts, again if the land was entailed that would be impossible.  It is unclear whether Hal's father was titled.

And then there is the Marquis of Rochdale.  The English form is Marquess.  Marquis is the French form.  So I'm not sure whether he is an English Marquess or a French Marquis.  Minor detail but it can annoy.

And I believe that same problem existed for Maddie's father, gambling debts and the possibility of selling the land to cover the debts.  Not sure if his land is entailed.

In any event, it was a minor distraction.  The story was good, Maddie faces terrible conditions as Lady Lethbridge and is emotionally scared.  It creates some dynamics in their renewed relationship.  She goes from abused wife to pursued and harassed widow.  Two crazy and despicable characters lust after her.

The story does show how women were often treated in that society as chattel property.  It is hard to believe how few rights these women had.

Not a bad story line and I certainly will continue to read the "Officers and Gentlemen" series.
3458841
I read this quick little story in The Mammoth Book of Regency Romance. It's the very short but sweet tale of Lady Emma Bowen, a widow; and retired Naval Captain Phineas Quentin, her neighbor who wants to be so much more than just her friend...

This was my first experience with Ms. Linden and I really liked her writing. Both Emma and Phin were kind and charming, though not well developed since the entire story was under forty pages. The romance was cute if not passionate, with some kisses and a little petting. I thought it was a nice and easy read, but there just wasn't enough there and was simply too short on plot and page count. I can definitely see this author's potential though and look forward to reading one of her longer novels soon.
1960081
Only a duke can make the harem girl respectable. Since Lucien had always been her friend, of course he would do it. Then came the complications. Well done.
4691030
Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

Lucian Beaumont, Viscount Rutland wants nothing more than to restore wealth and respectability to his family line, and rescue his father from the brink of insanity. When he uncovers clues leading to an ancient Roman treasure, all he needs is financial backing for his archeological expedition.

Daisy Drake is longing for adventure but doesn't get much opportunity for that anymore, not like she did as a child. However, when she runs into an old friend while attending an exhibit of erotic Roman art, adventure is exactly what she'll get... in more ways than one. Daisy has the funds but Lucian refuses to take money from the family his father blames for his downfall.

When Daisy disguises herself as an infamous French courtesan, Lucian's interest is claimed by this mystery woman who is willing to finance his treasure hunt... and teach him the art of pleasing a woman, which Daisy has learned from reading things she shouldn't be. Now between sensual bedroom pursuits and a treasure hunt, Daisy has all the adventure she can handle just Vexing the Viscount.

I adore anything Emily Bryan/Diana Groe writes and Vexing the Viscount ranks up near the top as a delightful read. The Emily Bryan books are more humorous in tone than those under the name Diana Groe while still maintaining all of the trademarks I have come to expect from her. While the humor makes the Vexing the Viscount a lighter read, there is still plenty of the inherent sensuality of the characters. After all, how can there not be such when the heroine is disguised as an infamous courtesan to please the love of her life and make up excuses to spend time with him? This also provides plenty of entertainment for readers as we see Daisy studying the journals of the courtesan she is pretending to be. Then there is the added amusement as Daisy tries so hard to hide her lack of knowledge about the sensual arts when Lucian comes calling.

One of the trademarks I have come to expect from this talented author is the strong complex characters. Lucian is dealing with some rather weighty issues, not the least of which is the struggle to restore pride to his family name in the hopes of saving his father from insanity. This provides extra depth as we are privy to his deep seated worries and fears. Daisy is a highly intelligent young woman with an abundance of spirit that has a tendency to get her into sometimes questionable adventure, while never losing that last shred of innocence. The romance that blossoms between them has been a long time coming, at least from Daisy's perspective, and Lucian finds himself fighting the ever growing attraction, convinced they can never be together. As we all know, the road to love never runs smoothly and following these two as they travel that path provides a wonderful romantic escape for a few hours.

Vexing the Viscount is an intriguing blend of secrets, scandal, adventure, tragedy, and not one, but two, romances. We find an exciting treasure hunt that stirs up danger and shocking secrets that cause rifts between families and would cause a lot of scorn if they were revealed. Then there is plenty of scandal associated with the life of a courtesan and bits of naughty ancient Roman art uncovered through Lucian's archeological expedition. One of the things I loved best about Vexing the Viscount is the dual romance, one taking place during "current" times and one unfolding in ancient Londinium, with tragic results, that is revealed through some of the artifacts Lucian and Daisy uncover leading to the rumored treasure. Vivid historic details add to an already well rounded story and bring an additional ring of authenticity to the tale.

 Kelley A. Hartsell, March 2009. All rights reserved.
2995670
Amanda Grange is the author of Mr. Darcy's Diary (also published as Darcy's Diary) which I thoroughly enjoyed and Mr. Knightley's Diary which I found to be slightly slow and tedious.  When I discovered that she had also written this Regency romance I was anxious to see how I would enjoy a book written by her not involving characters from the works of Jane Austen.

Cassandra Paxton has gone to Brighton after being in mourning for a year with two goals in mind.  She wants to get her home there in pristine condition so that she can sell it, and she wants to find out what her brother meant in a letter he wrote shortly before he died in a riding accident.  In the letter Rupert states that he has done something "terrible" but gives no clue as to what it is.  Cassandra decides to question Rupert's friends to see if any nasty surprises remain for her to find and clean up.  The first friend she calls on is an impoverished earl, Justin, Lord Deverill.  Cassandra is reassured by Lord Deverill that Rupert was probably just referring to a gambling debt and there is no need for her to worry.  Since Rupert's other friends all say the same thing, Cassandra knows she should just accept their advice and enjoy the time she has left in Brighton before she goes back to the country for good.  Unfortunately, she seems to be having quite a few accidents, any of which might have proven fatal if fate had not intervened.

I was quite disappointed in this book.  It does not have nearly enough depth to the characters nor to the plot.  I found myself thinking quite often that any sixth or seventh grade girl would find this easy reading.  There was a mystery.  But it wasn't very interesting.  There was a romance.  But it was hard to tell it was a romance because there wasn't much feeling shown between our hero and heroine.  There was an old family legend, a bit of espionage, and a revolting man who offered to set Cassandra up as a mistress for gentlemen.  All of this should have held my interest.  None of it did.  It was rather bland and very flat.  The author included a description of an evening spent at the Brighton Pavillion with the Prince of Wales as host.  The descriptions were not terribly well done and the "entertainment" entered into by the Prince after dinner was a curiosity but only raised questions from me concerning firing pistols indoors.

I'm sorry to say that I do not recommend this book for Regency romance readers UNLESS.....you want very large print, a light fluffy read and a surprise ending which anyone in their right minds will see coming from a mile away.  The choice, as always, is yours.
2224022
Jeremy grandparents want him to find a wife and have an heir. Georgina is very attractive but Jeremy never planned on falling in love with her. After witnessing Lord Pellton treat Georgina in an inappropriate way Jeremy realize he cannot allow Georgina to marry Lord Pellton. He knows something happened to Georgina that changed her from the woman she once was but when he finds out what happened will he still look at her the same way? Jeremy wants a wife but first he has to be willing to accept Georgina the way she is and Lord Pellton and his nephew Simon won't let go of her so easily. The Undoing of Libertine is a good historical romance book.
4920810
This is the only publication you can secure as the 2 others are confined to the estate of the buyer, and are therefore out of the public domain. Known by most for his gift to run, this book will likely be a pleasant surprise to the grace granted to this man who lived the life.
And, died an unanticipated tragic death in 1945 near the tail end of WW-2.
1476690
This a continuing story of the crown tower.  Its an excellent story just don't buy the viscount and the witch nor preciplicus as they are novella found within the other books of the series.  Dont pay twice