What do you think?
Rate this book
Pennyroyal Green #10
It Started With a Scandal
Lord Philippe Lavay once took to the high seas armed with charm as lethal as his sword and a stone-cold conviction: he'll restore his family's fortune and honor, no matter the cost. Victory is at last within reach--when a brutal attack snatches it from his grasp and lands him in Pennyroyal Green.
An afternoon of bliss brings a cascade of consequences for Elise Fountain. Shunned by her family and ousted from a job she loves, survival means a plummet down the social ladder to a position no woman has yet been able to keep: housekeeper to a frighteningly formidable prince.
The bold and gentle Elise sees past his battered body into Philippe's barricaded heart...and her innate sensuality ignites his blood. Now a man who thought he could never love and a woman who thought she would never again trust must fight an incendiary passion that could be the ruin of them both.
An afternoon of bliss brings a cascade of consequences for Elise Fountain. Shunned by her family and ousted from a job she loves, survival means a plummet down the social ladder to a position no woman has yet been able to keep: housekeeper to a frighteningly formidable prince.
The bold and gentle Elise sees past his battered body into Philippe's barricaded heart...and her innate sensuality ignites his blood. Now a man who thought he could never love and a woman who thought she would never again trust must fight an incendiary passion that could be the ruin of them both.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 31, 2015
251 people are currently reading
3705 people want to read
About the author
Julie Anne Long
37 books2,914 followersWell, where should I start? I've lived in San Francisco for more than a decade, usually with at least one cat. I won the school spelling bee when I was in 7th grade; the word that clinched it was 'ukulele.' I originally set out to be a rock star when I grew up (I had a Bono fixation, but who didn't?), and I have the guitars and the questionable wardrobe stuffed in the back of my closet to prove it.
But writing was always my first love.
I was editor of my elementary school paper (believe it or not, Mrs. Little's fifth grade class at Glenmoor Elementary did have one); my high school paper (along with my best high school bud, Cindy Jorgenson); and my college paper, where our long-suffering typesetter finally forced me to learn how to typeset because my articles were usually late (and thus I probably have him to thank for all the desktop publishing jobs that ensued over the years).
Won a couple of random awards along the way: the Bank of America English Award in High School (which basically just amounted to a fancy plaque saying that I was really, really good at English); and an award for best Sports Feature article in a College Newspaper (and anyone who knows me well understands how deeply ironic that is). I began my academic career as a Journalism major; I switched to Creative Writing, which was a more comfortable fit for my freewheeling imagination and overdeveloped sense of whimsy. I dreamed of being a novelist.
But most of us, I think, tend to take for granted the things that come easily to us. I loved writing and all indications were that I was pretty good at it, but I, thank you very much, wanted to be a rock star. Which turned out to be ever-so-slightly harder to do than writing. A lot more equipment was involved, that's for sure. Heavy things, with knobs. It also involved late nights, fetid, graffiti-sprayed practice rooms, gorgeous flakey boys, bizarre gigs, in-fighting—what's not to love?
But my dream of being a published writer never faded. When the charm (ahem) of playing to four people in a tiny club at midnight on a Wednesday finally wore thin, however, I realized I could incorporate all the best things about being in a band — namely, drama, passion, and men with unruly hair — into novels, while at the same time indulging my love of history and research.
So I wrote The Runaway Duke, sent it to a literary agent (see the story here), who sold it to Warner Books a few months after that...which made 2003 one of the most extraordinary, head-spinning years I've ever had.
Why romance? Well, like most people, I read across many genres, but I've been an avid romance reader since I got in trouble for sneaking a Rosemary Rogers novel out of my mom's nightstand drawer (I think it was Sweet Savage Love). Rosemary Rogers, Kathleen Woodiwiss, Laurie McBain...I cut my romance teeth on those ladies. And in general, I take a visceral sort of pleasure in creating a hero and a heroine, putting them through their emotional paces, and watching their relationship develop on the page. And of course, there's much to be said for the happy ending. :)
And why Regency Historicals? Well, for starters, I think we can blame Jane Austen. Her inimitable wit, compassion and vision brought the Regency vividly to life for generations of readers. If Jane Austen had written romances about Incas, for instance, I think, we'd have racks and racks of Inca romances in bookstores all over the country, and Warner Forever would be the Inca Romance line.
But I'm a history FREAK, in general. I read more history, to be perfectly honest, than fiction (when I have time to read!) these days. When we were little, my sister and I used to play "Littl
But writing was always my first love.
I was editor of my elementary school paper (believe it or not, Mrs. Little's fifth grade class at Glenmoor Elementary did have one); my high school paper (along with my best high school bud, Cindy Jorgenson); and my college paper, where our long-suffering typesetter finally forced me to learn how to typeset because my articles were usually late (and thus I probably have him to thank for all the desktop publishing jobs that ensued over the years).
Won a couple of random awards along the way: the Bank of America English Award in High School (which basically just amounted to a fancy plaque saying that I was really, really good at English); and an award for best Sports Feature article in a College Newspaper (and anyone who knows me well understands how deeply ironic that is). I began my academic career as a Journalism major; I switched to Creative Writing, which was a more comfortable fit for my freewheeling imagination and overdeveloped sense of whimsy. I dreamed of being a novelist.
But most of us, I think, tend to take for granted the things that come easily to us. I loved writing and all indications were that I was pretty good at it, but I, thank you very much, wanted to be a rock star. Which turned out to be ever-so-slightly harder to do than writing. A lot more equipment was involved, that's for sure. Heavy things, with knobs. It also involved late nights, fetid, graffiti-sprayed practice rooms, gorgeous flakey boys, bizarre gigs, in-fighting—what's not to love?
But my dream of being a published writer never faded. When the charm (ahem) of playing to four people in a tiny club at midnight on a Wednesday finally wore thin, however, I realized I could incorporate all the best things about being in a band — namely, drama, passion, and men with unruly hair — into novels, while at the same time indulging my love of history and research.
So I wrote The Runaway Duke, sent it to a literary agent (see the story here), who sold it to Warner Books a few months after that...which made 2003 one of the most extraordinary, head-spinning years I've ever had.
Why romance? Well, like most people, I read across many genres, but I've been an avid romance reader since I got in trouble for sneaking a Rosemary Rogers novel out of my mom's nightstand drawer (I think it was Sweet Savage Love). Rosemary Rogers, Kathleen Woodiwiss, Laurie McBain...I cut my romance teeth on those ladies. And in general, I take a visceral sort of pleasure in creating a hero and a heroine, putting them through their emotional paces, and watching their relationship develop on the page. And of course, there's much to be said for the happy ending. :)
And why Regency Historicals? Well, for starters, I think we can blame Jane Austen. Her inimitable wit, compassion and vision brought the Regency vividly to life for generations of readers. If Jane Austen had written romances about Incas, for instance, I think, we'd have racks and racks of Inca romances in bookstores all over the country, and Warner Forever would be the Inca Romance line.
But I'm a history FREAK, in general. I read more history, to be perfectly honest, than fiction (when I have time to read!) these days. When we were little, my sister and I used to play "Littl
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 524 reviews
January 4, 2024
Here is a perfectly nice book written by an author that I enjoy. It was just too slow of a build up to the romance. OK so I am fickle. I complain if its insta love and I complain if it's too slow a burn. The last 40% was great. So, a case of me not you. 3.5*
September 29, 2020
4.5 Stars
I loved this, and it’s hard for me to find historical romance books I love. I read this in less than 24 hours.
There’s funny/witty banter, a fully competent woman as the main character, a grumpy but lovable Frenchman, a cute kid, and of course some spicy romance. The characters are fully developed and the build up of the relationship, despite their differences in social standings, is very believable. The only thing keeping me from giving this 5 stars is maybe there could have been more of a plot outside of the relationship.
I have been reading a couple of the books from this series, all out of order, and I think they work well as stand-alones.
I loved this, and it’s hard for me to find historical romance books I love. I read this in less than 24 hours.
There’s funny/witty banter, a fully competent woman as the main character, a grumpy but lovable Frenchman, a cute kid, and of course some spicy romance. The characters are fully developed and the build up of the relationship, despite their differences in social standings, is very believable. The only thing keeping me from giving this 5 stars is maybe there could have been more of a plot outside of the relationship.
I have been reading a couple of the books from this series, all out of order, and I think they work well as stand-alones.
March 24, 2015
3.5 stars
****Full Review****
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lord Philippe Lavay is a prince of the house of Bourbon, agent for the English crown, and currently recovering from injuries in Pennyroyal Green. Elise Fountain is a former teacher of Miss Marietta Endicott's Academy (School for Recalcitrant Girls), mother, and currently working as Lord Philippe Lavay's housekeeper. Neither foresaw ending up in such circumstances and due to class differences neither should even know of each other but with the help of some willow bark tea both are about to become aware, very aware of one another.
Elise had a child out of wedlock and with the time period she is living in, she is experiencing all the prejudices that follow this situation. Her family has disowned her and the school she was teaching at had to let her go so as not to blacken their reputation. When Elise arrives on Lavay's doorstep she is at the end of her rope for options. She reminisces at times about how carefree and foolish she was in her youth but after she becomes a mother Elise really rises to the occasion. Women will especially feel for Elise as she and she alone pays for her indiscretion and the unfairness of the shame society places on her. It is not the main focus of the story but Elise's interactions with her son are sweet and darling, her love for him shines through brilliantly. Even though she has to temper it due to her circumstances, Elise has quite the mischievous streak. Philippe Lavay not only notices this streak but also seems to encourage it. When the two first meet there is an instant awareness between them but it is when Elise recognizes Philippe is in pain from injuries not fully healed and makes him willow bark tea to ease it that they start to really pay attention to each other. The air fairly crackles with tension when they are in a room together.
The majority of the story centers on Philippe and Elise's interactions in the house with outside influences not making an appearance until the end of the story. I found it perfect that Philippe was of the house of Bourbon because reading this story was like sipping slowly on a glass of bourbon; Elise and Philippe's relationship is a slow burn but sweeter for the anticipation. The complication of Elise being a housekeeper and Philippe needing to marry for money are nothing new but with Julie Anne Long's writing, the story suddenly becomes captivating. Most of the story has a languid pace but as it has to do with the tension between our main couple it was enjoyable, the last twenty percent or so speeds up as the real world intrudes and decisions must be made. Secondary characters stay fairly well to the sidelines with Elise having to shape up some servants and Philippe's friends the Earl and Countess of Ardmay (I Kissed An Earl) popping up occasionally.
Now, on to what you all really want to know, yes, Olivia and Lyon do make an appearance in this book. Philippe was the individual that Lyon saved in London when he saw him being attacked and because of this when Philippe encounters Olivia he pays special attention to her and how she acts with her fiance. In reference to the Pennyroyal series, It Started With a Scandal would actually work as a standalone, except for the last page. Oh readers, the ending scene in this book, it is what we all have been waiting for. The book, story, and characters have merit on their own but if you bought and read this solely to read the ending Lyon scene, I would not judge. Am I reading the next in the series? Try and stop me.
****Full Review****
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lord Philippe Lavay is a prince of the house of Bourbon, agent for the English crown, and currently recovering from injuries in Pennyroyal Green. Elise Fountain is a former teacher of Miss Marietta Endicott's Academy (School for Recalcitrant Girls), mother, and currently working as Lord Philippe Lavay's housekeeper. Neither foresaw ending up in such circumstances and due to class differences neither should even know of each other but with the help of some willow bark tea both are about to become aware, very aware of one another.
Elise had a child out of wedlock and with the time period she is living in, she is experiencing all the prejudices that follow this situation. Her family has disowned her and the school she was teaching at had to let her go so as not to blacken their reputation. When Elise arrives on Lavay's doorstep she is at the end of her rope for options. She reminisces at times about how carefree and foolish she was in her youth but after she becomes a mother Elise really rises to the occasion. Women will especially feel for Elise as she and she alone pays for her indiscretion and the unfairness of the shame society places on her. It is not the main focus of the story but Elise's interactions with her son are sweet and darling, her love for him shines through brilliantly. Even though she has to temper it due to her circumstances, Elise has quite the mischievous streak. Philippe Lavay not only notices this streak but also seems to encourage it. When the two first meet there is an instant awareness between them but it is when Elise recognizes Philippe is in pain from injuries not fully healed and makes him willow bark tea to ease it that they start to really pay attention to each other. The air fairly crackles with tension when they are in a room together.
The majority of the story centers on Philippe and Elise's interactions in the house with outside influences not making an appearance until the end of the story. I found it perfect that Philippe was of the house of Bourbon because reading this story was like sipping slowly on a glass of bourbon; Elise and Philippe's relationship is a slow burn but sweeter for the anticipation. The complication of Elise being a housekeeper and Philippe needing to marry for money are nothing new but with Julie Anne Long's writing, the story suddenly becomes captivating. Most of the story has a languid pace but as it has to do with the tension between our main couple it was enjoyable, the last twenty percent or so speeds up as the real world intrudes and decisions must be made. Secondary characters stay fairly well to the sidelines with Elise having to shape up some servants and Philippe's friends the Earl and Countess of Ardmay (I Kissed An Earl) popping up occasionally.
Now, on to what you all really want to know, yes, Olivia and Lyon do make an appearance in this book. Philippe was the individual that Lyon saved in London when he saw him being attacked and because of this when Philippe encounters Olivia he pays special attention to her and how she acts with her fiance. In reference to the Pennyroyal series, It Started With a Scandal would actually work as a standalone, except for the last page. Oh readers, the ending scene in this book, it is what we all have been waiting for. The book, story, and characters have merit on their own but if you bought and read this solely to read the ending Lyon scene, I would not judge. Am I reading the next in the series? Try and stop me.
December 6, 2017
This is not a typical re-read, per se. I read It Started With A Scandal very shortly after a 10-year hiatus from romance novels and before I joined GR. But there were so many new books and authors to catch up on, so when I did join GR, I simply gave it 5 stars.
Going through my 5-star rated pile, I noticed that a few of them I couldn’t really remember as well as I should, and whether they would truly hold up on re-read. It helps when you’re desperate for a good HR, so It Started With A Scandal it was. I remembered liking it a lot. I remembered Philippe but had forgotten the name of the heroine, Elise. See? Not really a re-read. Not one I would put on the same level as other books I’ve re-read recently.
Well, now that I have re-read it, the first thing that comes to my mind is ‘Why, oh why, aren’t there more HR’s like this one?’ I’ve never been a Pennyroyal Green fan, having started right in the middle of it with What I Did For A Duke and having loved it. But the rest were rather ‘hm’ to ‘meh’, with the much anticipated The Legend of Lyon Redmond leaving me utterly cold and uninterested. But then, I didn’t have years of a build-up, so that’s that.
Funnily, I remember What I Did For A Duke better than I did It Started With A Scandal, and yet, I gave the first 4 stars and this one 5.
Now I know why. It is a beautifully written, character driven story of two people who never imagined to be in the position they’re in when the book starts. It has the ‘master and servant’ trope that usually doesn’t faze me, unless there’s no significant change in the balance of power in the course of the story. And unless it isn’t one of those books where social rules are ignored and the heroine acts like a woman of the 21st century. Besides, in HR's this trope always has a Cinderella-like tone which I totally enjoy.
No, Elise and Philippe are constantly aware of the differences of their social statuses. There are no ham-fisted attempts to teach us what 21st century feminism means (I. Must. Not. Name. Names. Actually, only one name comes to my mind, at the moment, and it’s not Tessa Dare). I may as well argue that early 19th century feminism meant having a child out of wedlock and doing anything that can be done to give that child the care, protection and love every child deserves. It might also have meant to remain strong in the face of rigid social rules, malicious rumours and the stigma of ‘The Fallen Woman’ and carry on with life anyway; finding happiness in the little things. That’s Elise in a nutshell. Almost. Elise calls herself also a gambler.
She gambled once and lost, being left behind pregnant and abandoned by her family. But there’s this mischievous streak in her that Philippe learns first to appreciate, respect and later to love. And now she’s in danger of gambling her heart away a second time. Slowly, naturally, deliciously. Because Lord Philippe Lavay shows qualities that aren’t apparent at the beginning of the story. Driven by the wish to restore his family’s status before the French Revolution, he seems to be in a perpetual state of irritation. Duty, memories and demands controlling his days, whilst he’s recuperating from an attempt on his life.
I wouldn’t consider Philippe and Elise’s developing relationship a cat-and-mouse game, nor is it really camaraderie, but a slow understanding of what makes the other person tick. Maybe it is camaraderie in a way, I’m not sure. But what I am sure of is that the effortless writing of JAL shines through when these two are together. That the book focuses mainly on them helps, of course, but she doesn’t do the usual waxing poetic over ample bosoms or strong thighs – you get my meaning. It’s a slowburn romance that kept me glued; the prose upping the ante of expectations. And, oh yeah, I wasn’t disappointed. When Elise pulls her hairpin out and puts it on the sofa between them, a slow, knowing and deeply satisfied smile spread all over my face. Our little gambler decided to up the stakes, and Philippe is not one to miss out on a challenge.
The conundrum of different social statuses is solved satisfactorily, with Philippe coming to understand that he was holding on to a life that is irrevocably destroyed. And even though he may be able to restore some of it, it won’t have any meaning if Elise cannot be part of it.
By the way, I’m usually indifferent when kids play a role in romance novels. It’s okay, I don’t mind, as long as they don’t sound like little grown-up’s. But for once, Jack, Elise’s son, is the one who really stole my heart.
Going through my 5-star rated pile, I noticed that a few of them I couldn’t really remember as well as I should, and whether they would truly hold up on re-read. It helps when you’re desperate for a good HR, so It Started With A Scandal it was. I remembered liking it a lot. I remembered Philippe but had forgotten the name of the heroine, Elise. See? Not really a re-read. Not one I would put on the same level as other books I’ve re-read recently.
Well, now that I have re-read it, the first thing that comes to my mind is ‘Why, oh why, aren’t there more HR’s like this one?’ I’ve never been a Pennyroyal Green fan, having started right in the middle of it with What I Did For A Duke and having loved it. But the rest were rather ‘hm’ to ‘meh’, with the much anticipated The Legend of Lyon Redmond leaving me utterly cold and uninterested. But then, I didn’t have years of a build-up, so that’s that.
Funnily, I remember What I Did For A Duke better than I did It Started With A Scandal, and yet, I gave the first 4 stars and this one 5.
Now I know why. It is a beautifully written, character driven story of two people who never imagined to be in the position they’re in when the book starts. It has the ‘master and servant’ trope that usually doesn’t faze me, unless there’s no significant change in the balance of power in the course of the story. And unless it isn’t one of those books where social rules are ignored and the heroine acts like a woman of the 21st century. Besides, in HR's this trope always has a Cinderella-like tone which I totally enjoy.
No, Elise and Philippe are constantly aware of the differences of their social statuses. There are no ham-fisted attempts to teach us what 21st century feminism means (I. Must. Not. Name. Names. Actually, only one name comes to my mind, at the moment, and it’s not Tessa Dare). I may as well argue that early 19th century feminism meant having a child out of wedlock and doing anything that can be done to give that child the care, protection and love every child deserves. It might also have meant to remain strong in the face of rigid social rules, malicious rumours and the stigma of ‘The Fallen Woman’ and carry on with life anyway; finding happiness in the little things. That’s Elise in a nutshell. Almost. Elise calls herself also a gambler.
She gambled once and lost, being left behind pregnant and abandoned by her family. But there’s this mischievous streak in her that Philippe learns first to appreciate, respect and later to love. And now she’s in danger of gambling her heart away a second time. Slowly, naturally, deliciously. Because Lord Philippe Lavay shows qualities that aren’t apparent at the beginning of the story. Driven by the wish to restore his family’s status before the French Revolution, he seems to be in a perpetual state of irritation. Duty, memories and demands controlling his days, whilst he’s recuperating from an attempt on his life.
I wouldn’t consider Philippe and Elise’s developing relationship a cat-and-mouse game, nor is it really camaraderie, but a slow understanding of what makes the other person tick. Maybe it is camaraderie in a way, I’m not sure. But what I am sure of is that the effortless writing of JAL shines through when these two are together. That the book focuses mainly on them helps, of course, but she doesn’t do the usual waxing poetic over ample bosoms or strong thighs – you get my meaning. It’s a slowburn romance that kept me glued; the prose upping the ante of expectations. And, oh yeah, I wasn’t disappointed. When Elise pulls her hairpin out and puts it on the sofa between them, a slow, knowing and deeply satisfied smile spread all over my face. Our little gambler decided to up the stakes, and Philippe is not one to miss out on a challenge.
The conundrum of different social statuses is solved satisfactorily, with Philippe coming to understand that he was holding on to a life that is irrevocably destroyed. And even though he may be able to restore some of it, it won’t have any meaning if Elise cannot be part of it.
By the way, I’m usually indifferent when kids play a role in romance novels. It’s okay, I don’t mind, as long as they don’t sound like little grown-up’s. But for once, Jack, Elise’s son, is the one who really stole my heart.
April 20, 2015
Another winner in the Pennyroyal Green series!
This book started out slow for me in comparison to other JAL books, but the more I read the more engrossed I became in the story and the characters. It's no surprise that I ended up loving this one. What else should I expect from Julie Anne Long? It's no secret, after all, that I love her writing.
At first I was a bit put off by Lavay. I had met him in book #4 and I couldn't recognise him here. Little by little, I could understand what brought about this change, justify his behaviour and see the man he was before in the man he is now.
Elise is a very strong heroine. She's bossy and resourceful when she needs to be, but kind and delightful the rest of the time. Philippe is really, really sexy, intimidating but so virile I ended up liking his new self even more than the one I met in book 4. His French charm and easy-going personality was evident by the end of the book, despite his brooding and moody character when we first meet him in this book.
Four stars because, for some reason, as much as I loved this book, it didn't have the same effect on me most JAL books have. In addition, there were so few descriptions of the characters' background story I finished the book without having understood the details about what happened to them before they met. I just have a vague idea about their past lives.
This book started out slow for me in comparison to other JAL books, but the more I read the more engrossed I became in the story and the characters. It's no surprise that I ended up loving this one. What else should I expect from Julie Anne Long? It's no secret, after all, that I love her writing.
At first I was a bit put off by Lavay. I had met him in book #4 and I couldn't recognise him here. Little by little, I could understand what brought about this change, justify his behaviour and see the man he was before in the man he is now.
Elise is a very strong heroine. She's bossy and resourceful when she needs to be, but kind and delightful the rest of the time. Philippe is really, really sexy, intimidating but so virile I ended up liking his new self even more than the one I met in book 4. His French charm and easy-going personality was evident by the end of the book, despite his brooding and moody character when we first meet him in this book.
Four stars because, for some reason, as much as I loved this book, it didn't have the same effect on me most JAL books have. In addition, there were so few descriptions of the characters' background story I finished the book without having understood the details about what happened to them before they met. I just have a vague idea about their past lives.
February 16, 2018
Beautiful. Classic. Exactly what I needed.
I've only partially recovered from my swoon, but I'm going to go ahead and do this.
I absolutely loved this book. It had me breathless with its romanticism. I loved the two lead characters. Their chemistry was off-the-charts and their wit and style was a joy to read.
I have some auto-buys. This year, the first two releases by my auto-buys were disappointments. The second one distressingly so. I was beginning to worry that it was going to be one of those years when I just didn't mesh with my go-to favorite authors.
Then along comes Julie Anne Long to save the year.
Here's a little of why I love Philippe:
Here's a little of why I love Elise:
Julie Anne Long writes unabashedly romantic stories. Her character come to life with multi-layered personalities and relatable problems. Their reactions to each other and ensuing events are almost always organic and believable.
In this story we have an unwed mother finding a job as a housekeeper after having been forced out of her position at a girls' school and about seven years after being turned out of her home by her parents. Her employer (and our male love interest) is Philippe Lavay, a prince of the House of Bourbon and a survivor of the purges of the French Revolution. He was introduced in the earlier book, "I Kissed an Earl", as best friend and shipmate of the hero of that book.
The two characters have their losses and challenges. They have their places in the hierarchy and strong barriers exist. Each would love to have their "home" back. Of course, they manage to help each other with that, too.
As I said up top, I needed this. :D
I've only partially recovered from my swoon, but I'm going to go ahead and do this.
I absolutely loved this book. It had me breathless with its romanticism. I loved the two lead characters. Their chemistry was off-the-charts and their wit and style was a joy to read.
I have some auto-buys. This year, the first two releases by my auto-buys were disappointments. The second one distressingly so. I was beginning to worry that it was going to be one of those years when I just didn't mesh with my go-to favorite authors.
Then along comes Julie Anne Long to save the year.
Here's a little of why I love Philippe:
"Do you think," Philippe said slowly, "that marrying the wrong person can make you feel lonelier?"
"I have sailed the oceans and fought wars and won and lost fortunes. I still know only two things for certain: Life is short. Love matters most."
"I think your laugh is my favorite sound in the world."
"I am here because there is life, and there is death, but they are one and the same without you, Elise."
Here's a little of why I love Elise:
"Dear God, if this is your idea of punishment for my sins, I must congratulate you on your originality."
After finding a dead mouse hung by its tail in a doorway: "For the love of God. The least they could have done was fashion a little noose for it. I would have found it infinitely more sinister."
"But she hadn't been able to resist touching him any more than she'd been able to resist drawing her next breath, and a large part of the reason was that she knew he simply wanted to touch her, too. How could she deny him? What harm could there be in just this moment? Those were the words every addict utters when he reaches for the next hookah full of opium, she imagined."
Julie Anne Long writes unabashedly romantic stories. Her character come to life with multi-layered personalities and relatable problems. Their reactions to each other and ensuing events are almost always organic and believable.
In this story we have an unwed mother finding a job as a housekeeper after having been forced out of her position at a girls' school and about seven years after being turned out of her home by her parents. Her employer (and our male love interest) is Philippe Lavay, a prince of the House of Bourbon and a survivor of the purges of the French Revolution. He was introduced in the earlier book, "I Kissed an Earl", as best friend and shipmate of the hero of that book.
The two characters have their losses and challenges. They have their places in the hierarchy and strong barriers exist. Each would love to have their "home" back. Of course, they manage to help each other with that, too.
As I said up top, I needed this. :D
April 30, 2015
**4.25 Stars**
Well this one was definitely a goodie! I love reading historicals because there's something about that time that is so magical and the men are just swoonworthy. Julie Anne Long is one of my fave HR authors. I can count on her for unique storytelling and lovable characters. But I still had my fingers crossed on this one, simply because the Pennyroyal Green Series is a long series and after about the 8th book one would think it would've ran its course. Once again I was wrong! This story was emotional, sensual, charming, and just beautiful!
I loved all of the characters, especially Lavay and Elise. Elise is a young mother who left home after getting pregnant out of wedlock. She eventually is hired as Lord Lavay's housekeeper and sparks start to fly between these two. I do love the forbidden "boss and servant" storyline and this one worked for me. One of my favorite things was the back and forth bantering between Elise and Lavay. It was wickedly sexy.
Even though this is the 10th book in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. Loved the ending as it sets up the next book The Legend of Lyon Redmond. We have been waiting years for this book so I am super duper excited!
*************Previously Posted******************
Love this author and this series!
Hoping this one's a goodie!
Well this one was definitely a goodie! I love reading historicals because there's something about that time that is so magical and the men are just swoonworthy. Julie Anne Long is one of my fave HR authors. I can count on her for unique storytelling and lovable characters. But I still had my fingers crossed on this one, simply because the Pennyroyal Green Series is a long series and after about the 8th book one would think it would've ran its course. Once again I was wrong! This story was emotional, sensual, charming, and just beautiful!
I loved all of the characters, especially Lavay and Elise. Elise is a young mother who left home after getting pregnant out of wedlock. She eventually is hired as Lord Lavay's housekeeper and sparks start to fly between these two. I do love the forbidden "boss and servant" storyline and this one worked for me. One of my favorite things was the back and forth bantering between Elise and Lavay. It was wickedly sexy.
Even though this is the 10th book in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. Loved the ending as it sets up the next book The Legend of Lyon Redmond. We have been waiting years for this book so I am super duper excited!
*************Previously Posted******************
Love this author and this series!
Hoping this one's a goodie!
October 18, 2024
the amount of yearning in this almost put me in a coma
literally all i care about is that little jack got to ring the church bell in the end.
Read my review here
Follow me on Instagram
literally all i care about is that little jack got to ring the church bell in the end.
Read my review here
Follow me on Instagram
April 17, 2015
I am an ardent defender of the romance genre in all its absurdist glory, but sometimes I read something and think, "yup, this is super cheesy and embarrassing."
So sadly, this was a bummer. I adore this author. But JAL's trademark witty banter and slow burn romance just wasn't there - or it was but I was too creeped out by the highly implausible and unconvincing servant/employer dynamic. Plus both of them were super annoying.
And it seemed like a hamster wheel with the endless days in the same house and for the love of all things sacred and holy STOP WITH THE APPLE TARTS! No one likes to eat apple tarts every single day twice a day! (Weird rant, I know, but you don't understand. There were THIRTY TWO references to apple tarts. I just checked.)
Also, the ending was absurd even by Romancelandia standards, and I am not even talking about the boring romance.
I am also SO DONE with Olivia and Lyon - good LORD (and the fact that she is engaged to someone else who actually loves her really pisses me off. I hate that trope more than I hate employers creeping on their servants.)
Think I need to reread A Notorious Countess Confesses to cheer myself back up.
So sadly, this was a bummer. I adore this author. But JAL's trademark witty banter and slow burn romance just wasn't there - or it was but I was too creeped out by the highly implausible and unconvincing servant/employer dynamic. Plus both of them were super annoying.
And it seemed like a hamster wheel with the endless days in the same house and for the love of all things sacred and holy STOP WITH THE APPLE TARTS! No one likes to eat apple tarts every single day twice a day! (Weird rant, I know, but you don't understand. There were THIRTY TWO references to apple tarts. I just checked.)
Also, the ending was absurd even by Romancelandia standards, and I am not even talking about the boring romance.
I am also SO DONE with Olivia and Lyon - good LORD (and the fact that she is engaged to someone else who actually loves her really pisses me off. I hate that trope more than I hate employers creeping on their servants.)
Think I need to reread A Notorious Countess Confesses to cheer myself back up.
November 26, 2019
Reread Nov 2019 and still keeping the same initial rating 3+ years on. I'm too tired to do a new review, but I'm adding a few quotes.
4.5/5. Witty, appealing, fleshed-out protagonists. Hot chemistry. A genuinely delightful and non-precocious little boy Jack who slays a giant's heart. This book has it all as it details the moving and slow-building impossible romance between a displaced French prince who lost his castle and his housekeeper, who lost her virtue long ago, but not her dignity and compassion. Marvellous story telling by a master and I love the ending which introduces the final masterpiece of this fantastic series (Lyon and Olivia's story which I read out of order before this one).
And then he did turn.
Slowly.
She wondered if he did that for effect. Perhaps he understood that the common, mundane female of the serving class, such as herself, would need time to prepare herself for his impact, and it was an act of generosity.
“The carpets in this room need beating, too,” she said quite neutrally.
And at that he turned abruptly, plucked up the quill, and twirled it in his fingers.
She was almost positive he’d turned in order to hide a smile.
“Are you implying that something else in this room would benefit
from a beating, Mrs. Fountain?” he said idly, dragging the letter toward him.
Some trees toppled when continually battered by storms. Others just grew deeper, stronger roots.
He suspected he knew which kind of tree Mrs. Fountain would be.
He was perilously close to being amused by how ingeniously Mrs.
Fountain was conducting what amounted to an epic power struggle in the most passive manner conceivable.
He was jealous.
That pedestrian word.
Ah. So this is what the peasants feel like, he told himself dryly.
He watched her go, rotating as if he’d been a weathervane and she the wind. Just that helpless.
Her hand rose, as if she meant to touch him, to placate him.
Then she dropped it.
Right back into its place.
Because everything had a place, of course.
4.5/5. Witty, appealing, fleshed-out protagonists. Hot chemistry. A genuinely delightful and non-precocious little boy Jack who slays a giant's heart. This book has it all as it details the moving and slow-building impossible romance between a displaced French prince who lost his castle and his housekeeper, who lost her virtue long ago, but not her dignity and compassion. Marvellous story telling by a master and I love the ending which introduces the final masterpiece of this fantastic series (Lyon and Olivia's story which I read out of order before this one).
And then he did turn.
Slowly.
She wondered if he did that for effect. Perhaps he understood that the common, mundane female of the serving class, such as herself, would need time to prepare herself for his impact, and it was an act of generosity.
“The carpets in this room need beating, too,” she said quite neutrally.
And at that he turned abruptly, plucked up the quill, and twirled it in his fingers.
She was almost positive he’d turned in order to hide a smile.
“Are you implying that something else in this room would benefit
from a beating, Mrs. Fountain?” he said idly, dragging the letter toward him.
Some trees toppled when continually battered by storms. Others just grew deeper, stronger roots.
He suspected he knew which kind of tree Mrs. Fountain would be.
He was perilously close to being amused by how ingeniously Mrs.
Fountain was conducting what amounted to an epic power struggle in the most passive manner conceivable.
He was jealous.
That pedestrian word.
Ah. So this is what the peasants feel like, he told himself dryly.
He watched her go, rotating as if he’d been a weathervane and she the wind. Just that helpless.
Her hand rose, as if she meant to touch him, to placate him.
Then she dropped it.
Right back into its place.
Because everything had a place, of course.
February 19, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
It Started With A Scandal by Julie Anne Long
Book Ten of the Pennyroyal Green series
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: March 31, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Lord Philippe Lavay once took to the high seas armed with charm as lethal as his sword and a stone-cold conviction: he'll restore his family's fortune and honor, no matter the cost. Victory is at last within reach--when a brutal attack snatches it from his grasp and lands him in Pennyroyal Green.
An afternoon of bliss brings a cascade of consequences for Elise Fountain. Shunned by her family and ousted from a job she loves, survival means a plummet down the social ladder to a position no woman has yet been able to keep: housekeeper to a frighteningly formidable prince.
The bold and gentle Elise sees past his battered body into Philippe's barricaded heart...and her innate sensuality ignites his blood. Now a man who thought he could never love and a woman who thought she would never again trust must fight an incendiary passion that could be the ruin of them both.
What I Liked:
This is my first Julie Anne Long read, thanks to the book-pushing of Racquel (thank you, girl!). She and I both love historical romance novels, and recently, we swapped our favorite authors. I consider myself a bit more of a "newer" historical romance reader compared to Racquel, and when she got really excited about all things Julie Anne Long, I knew the author had to be some sort of awesome. So I requested this particular book from Edelweiss - I haven't read the other nine books in the series. But let me tell you: It Started With A Scandal is nothing short of wonderful, heartwarming, steamy, and entertaining.
Elise is a former teacher at an Academy. She was removed from her position for speaking out of turn. Years ago, her own family shunned her, because she got pregnant (unmarried), and the man left her. So Elise is now forced out of a job because she misspoke. She has a fake reference from the prestigious Redmond family (who owned someone a favor, and that someone used the favor for Elise). Elise secures a position as Lord Lavay's much-needed housekeeper.
Lord Philippe Lavay was attacked and is injured. He does not seem to care much about the state of his house, because it's in terrible shape. The few servants are lazy and rarely clean anything. Lord Lavay is tormented by his lack of funds, his injuries, and his dwindling French family honor and name. Elise is determined to turn his house into a home, and in doing so, she finds her way into everyone's heart... including Lord Lavay's.
Gah! I love the love stories that involve a hate-to-love dynamic. Lord Lavay is rather grouchy and unapproachable in the beginning of this book - for most of the book, actually. Personally, I find that quite endearing... and Elise found it intriguing. She didn't hate or dislike him at first - in fact, she's always been curious about him, and wanted to help him.
I love how kind and sweet Elise is - and yet, she is quite fiery and outspoken. She has to filter what she is thinking and says, and sometimes things slip through that filter. She lost her teaching position because she said something that could be taken rudely. But really, she's just very honest and direct. And nice. She has a big heart and a kind spirit.
And then there's Lord Lavay (Philippe), who is quiet and grouchy, irritable and menacing. He really isn't all that bad, but he certainly lets everyone think that he is. He doesn't let anyone in, doesn't communicate with his grandfather or sister anymore, since the attack. It's like he lost a bit of his pride, and not just money or honor.
Philippe and Elise together... fireworks. They dance around each other, clash at times, and keep the dance going. Elise never tries to stop helping Philippe, even if he is a grouch about things, like taking tea with pain relievers in them. I love their interactions. I love their dialogue. It's not love at first sight, and not quite lust at first sight either (Philippe had just thrown something). I love the development of their relationship - it's slow and gradual and beautiful. And the chemistry - the chemistry is sizzling hot in this book. You can feel the tension between Philippe and Elise.
There is so much to this book besides romance! Elise has a son, a "bastard", and the author focuses on Jack's growth sometimes as well. When Philippe finally meets Jack (this isn't until about halfway into the book), the author then has Philippe and Jack spending time together. This could be because the author wants to show that Philippe likes Elise, or because Philippe really likes Jack (or kids in general), or because the author wants to show Jack's growth. Either way, I actually really liked the sub-focus on the little boy. I liked Jack.
In general, overall, I really, really liked this book. It was near-perfect. I loved the story, the romance, the characters.
What I Did Not Like:
I soooo saw a certain decision made by Elise at the end of the book. Totally saw it coming - it HAD to happen. However, I felt like the ending in general was a bit quick, and then the final scene was not enough. I wanted a peek into the future, or something like that! I mean, we get a view into the future, but I think I just wanted a little more Philippe/Elise in the end, one-on-one, maybe. But anyway, small thing. I LOVED the ending, in general.
Would I Recommend It:
YES! I loved this book! I'll probably be shelving this one in my "Favorite Historical Romances of All Time" category. It's getting four stars (4.5, really), but it's definitely a favorite. If you're a historical romance fan, definitely give this book a chance!
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded down to 4 stars. I definitely want to go back and read the other nine books in the series (or as many as I can)! And I'll be keeping an eye out for future Pennyroyal Green books, and anything else by this author. Thank you for the recommendation, Racquel!
It Started With A Scandal by Julie Anne Long
Book Ten of the Pennyroyal Green series
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: March 31, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Lord Philippe Lavay once took to the high seas armed with charm as lethal as his sword and a stone-cold conviction: he'll restore his family's fortune and honor, no matter the cost. Victory is at last within reach--when a brutal attack snatches it from his grasp and lands him in Pennyroyal Green.
An afternoon of bliss brings a cascade of consequences for Elise Fountain. Shunned by her family and ousted from a job she loves, survival means a plummet down the social ladder to a position no woman has yet been able to keep: housekeeper to a frighteningly formidable prince.
The bold and gentle Elise sees past his battered body into Philippe's barricaded heart...and her innate sensuality ignites his blood. Now a man who thought he could never love and a woman who thought she would never again trust must fight an incendiary passion that could be the ruin of them both.
What I Liked:
This is my first Julie Anne Long read, thanks to the book-pushing of Racquel (thank you, girl!). She and I both love historical romance novels, and recently, we swapped our favorite authors. I consider myself a bit more of a "newer" historical romance reader compared to Racquel, and when she got really excited about all things Julie Anne Long, I knew the author had to be some sort of awesome. So I requested this particular book from Edelweiss - I haven't read the other nine books in the series. But let me tell you: It Started With A Scandal is nothing short of wonderful, heartwarming, steamy, and entertaining.
Elise is a former teacher at an Academy. She was removed from her position for speaking out of turn. Years ago, her own family shunned her, because she got pregnant (unmarried), and the man left her. So Elise is now forced out of a job because she misspoke. She has a fake reference from the prestigious Redmond family (who owned someone a favor, and that someone used the favor for Elise). Elise secures a position as Lord Lavay's much-needed housekeeper.
Lord Philippe Lavay was attacked and is injured. He does not seem to care much about the state of his house, because it's in terrible shape. The few servants are lazy and rarely clean anything. Lord Lavay is tormented by his lack of funds, his injuries, and his dwindling French family honor and name. Elise is determined to turn his house into a home, and in doing so, she finds her way into everyone's heart... including Lord Lavay's.
Gah! I love the love stories that involve a hate-to-love dynamic. Lord Lavay is rather grouchy and unapproachable in the beginning of this book - for most of the book, actually. Personally, I find that quite endearing... and Elise found it intriguing. She didn't hate or dislike him at first - in fact, she's always been curious about him, and wanted to help him.
I love how kind and sweet Elise is - and yet, she is quite fiery and outspoken. She has to filter what she is thinking and says, and sometimes things slip through that filter. She lost her teaching position because she said something that could be taken rudely. But really, she's just very honest and direct. And nice. She has a big heart and a kind spirit.
And then there's Lord Lavay (Philippe), who is quiet and grouchy, irritable and menacing. He really isn't all that bad, but he certainly lets everyone think that he is. He doesn't let anyone in, doesn't communicate with his grandfather or sister anymore, since the attack. It's like he lost a bit of his pride, and not just money or honor.
Philippe and Elise together... fireworks. They dance around each other, clash at times, and keep the dance going. Elise never tries to stop helping Philippe, even if he is a grouch about things, like taking tea with pain relievers in them. I love their interactions. I love their dialogue. It's not love at first sight, and not quite lust at first sight either (Philippe had just thrown something). I love the development of their relationship - it's slow and gradual and beautiful. And the chemistry - the chemistry is sizzling hot in this book. You can feel the tension between Philippe and Elise.
There is so much to this book besides romance! Elise has a son, a "bastard", and the author focuses on Jack's growth sometimes as well. When Philippe finally meets Jack (this isn't until about halfway into the book), the author then has Philippe and Jack spending time together. This could be because the author wants to show that Philippe likes Elise, or because Philippe really likes Jack (or kids in general), or because the author wants to show Jack's growth. Either way, I actually really liked the sub-focus on the little boy. I liked Jack.
In general, overall, I really, really liked this book. It was near-perfect. I loved the story, the romance, the characters.
What I Did Not Like:
I soooo saw a certain decision made by Elise at the end of the book. Totally saw it coming - it HAD to happen. However, I felt like the ending in general was a bit quick, and then the final scene was not enough. I wanted a peek into the future, or something like that! I mean, we get a view into the future, but I think I just wanted a little more Philippe/Elise in the end, one-on-one, maybe. But anyway, small thing. I LOVED the ending, in general.
Would I Recommend It:
YES! I loved this book! I'll probably be shelving this one in my "Favorite Historical Romances of All Time" category. It's getting four stars (4.5, really), but it's definitely a favorite. If you're a historical romance fan, definitely give this book a chance!
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded down to 4 stars. I definitely want to go back and read the other nine books in the series (or as many as I can)! And I'll be keeping an eye out for future Pennyroyal Green books, and anything else by this author. Thank you for the recommendation, Racquel!
Read
September 5, 2021Sorry dirty talked doesn't quite capture it. I guess I need more shelves.
And also... This series makes me swoooon. See shelves.
But can't quite review it yet bc I started in right away on the next one...
And also... This series makes me swoooon. See shelves.
But can't quite review it yet bc I started in right away on the next one...
September 18, 2021
4.75 Stars
This was another big win from the series. I'm not going to go into tons of detail, since all the things I feel for this author and her writing style are still true and defined in my previous reviews. But…
Here are a few highlights:
* I loved the now physically broken and recovering Lavay who we had previously met under better conditions in book four. It was fun getting to know him even more and see that he's also a wonderful romantic hero.
* The heroine was another of JAL's with a sordid (for the times) past. With the exception of maybe one heroine in this series, all have been wonderful characters with a nice balance of strength and vulnerability. Elise is another one. The determined love and care that she displayed for her son was a joy to read. And oh my goodness, I simply adored Jack and the spot-on portrayal of a five-year-old boy with hard-to-contain energy and boundless curiosity. Elise’s acceptance of her lot in life because of the choices she made before and for her son was admirable. She felt like a feminist before her times, but not in a fanciful or unbelievable way. She challenged the norms but didn’t ride ram shod over every convention.
* The romance between these two characters from different classes was lovely. The way this author writes seduction is dazzling and she manages to amp up the sexiness without the characters even touching. Now that's a skill.
*There were a couple of chapters towards the end that weren't as satisfying, but the very last page was divine. I’m excited to finally read the climax to this deftly developed series.
September 10, 2016
I've given this an A- at AAR, so am rounding my rating of 4.5 stars up to 5.
This, the tenth in the author’s Pennyroyal Green series, is a bit of an offshoot from it, as neither of the principal characters is a Redmond or an Eversea – and also perhaps a little bit of an exercise in delayed gratification, as fans of the series continue to await the final book, due out later this year.
That said, though, It Started With a Scandal is much more than an inconsequential filler slotted in to pass the time before the main event of Lyon and Olivia’s book; it’s a thoroughly enjoyable story with a Jane Eyre-ish vibe, featuring two people who don’t quite belong finding that together, they’re a perfect fit.
Lord Philippe Lavay is a member of the once powerful Bourbon family, and so is, in effect, French royalty. By the time this story takes place, he has lost most of his family and property to the Revolution, and is now fiercely determined to regain his family home and prestige while at the same time supporting the variously dispersed members of his family.
He is on the point of being able to re-purchase his home from whoever bought it after it had fallen into revolutionary hands, having spent years at sea and supplementing his income with covert work undertaken for the British government. Following one such mission, Lavay was attacked and badly wounded, and has removed to Pennyroyal Green in order to recuperate - and he is now faced with a difficult choice. One final mission will pay him sufficiently well as to enable him to reclaim his home and return to France, although given his physical condition, it’s not really much of an option. The alternative is for him to marry the money he needs in the form of the beautiful, self-assured Lady Alexandra Prideux, who would make him the perfect wife.
With his focus so firmly on difficult choices and on trying to deal with the amount of pain he is in, Lavay’s household goes its own way; the house is unkempt and his servants lazy. Upon the recommendation of Violet Redmond - now the Countess of Ardmay – Lavay interviews Mrs Elise Fountain for the post of Housekeeper, and engages her for a two-week trial.
Elise has recently been dismissed from her post as a teacher at Miss Endicott’s School following some malicious gossip, perpetrated by one of the pupils there, that her six-year-old son – Jack – is illegitimate. Elise cannot approach her family for help because they disowned her when she told them she was pregnant, so she must work to support herself and Jack. Immensely relieved at having – even temporarily – secured a position, Elise metaphorically rolls up her sleeves and gets to work, very quickly making it clear to the servants that their easy life is at an end, but winning them to her side with a mixture of good-humour and fairness that promises the sort of stability which is essential for the smooth running of the household.
I said at the beginning that the story has a “Jane Eyre-ish” vibe to it, and that comes from the relationship that springs up between the wounded nobleman and his servant – although of course, Elise is a housekeeper rather than a governess. Lavay is grumpy and rather forbidding at the outset, but there’s a wickedly dry sense of humour lurking underneath, which reminded me very much of Rochester as he plays verbal games with Jane. And like Jane, Elise gives as good as she gets, even as she admits that Lord Lavay is just a little bit scary – although not because of his ill temper or tight control. What frightens Elise is the way she responds to him; her past experience left her pregnant and abandoned, so she is naturally wary of forming an attachment which, given their relative stations in life, can only lead to more heartache. But even as her head gives her reasons to keep away, her heart can’t deny the strength of the attraction building between them, and of the way she wishes, just once, to have someone to lean on and to see her as beautiful and charming.
It Started With a Scandal is an absolute delight from start to finish, and is definitely going on to my keeper shelf. The central characters are wonderfully characterised and perfect for each other, even though they come from very different spheres of life. Level-headed and determined, both have a strong sense of responsibility to others – Elise puts her son’s welfare above her own happiness, and Philippe is prepared to sacrifice his so that he can take care of those who depend upon him. Their loyalty and honour is balanced beautifully by their innate kindness and by the playful side of themselves they rarely allow others to see. They also have in common the fact that they are both adrift, neither of them quite fitting in with any particular echelon of society. Elise is well-born, but has had to take employment in order to support herself and her son, and Lavay feels out of place among his peers, people he comes to realise are as unbending now as they ever were.
The romance is a delicious slow-burn, full of sexual tension and wonderfully witty banter which, I readily admit, is my drug of choice when it comes to romance reading. But the book is so more than that – even as Lavay and Elise trade quips, they are becoming attuned to each other so that they learn almost as much about each other from what they don’t say as what they do. Their conversations are as laced with poignancy as with wit, which is one of the things that elevates this story from being a mere “feelgood” romance with lots of great, sexually-charged banter to being something far deeper. One particular moment pin-pointed this for me – a conversation about home which shows the importance of such a thing to both characters. Eloise lost hers when her parents disowned her and Philippe lost his in a much more violent way, but eventually they both come to see that home really IS where the heart is.
It Started With a Scandal is a beautifully written, character-driven romance, full of warmth, charm and depth – and I loved every minute of it.
This, the tenth in the author’s Pennyroyal Green series, is a bit of an offshoot from it, as neither of the principal characters is a Redmond or an Eversea – and also perhaps a little bit of an exercise in delayed gratification, as fans of the series continue to await the final book, due out later this year.
That said, though, It Started With a Scandal is much more than an inconsequential filler slotted in to pass the time before the main event of Lyon and Olivia’s book; it’s a thoroughly enjoyable story with a Jane Eyre-ish vibe, featuring two people who don’t quite belong finding that together, they’re a perfect fit.
Lord Philippe Lavay is a member of the once powerful Bourbon family, and so is, in effect, French royalty. By the time this story takes place, he has lost most of his family and property to the Revolution, and is now fiercely determined to regain his family home and prestige while at the same time supporting the variously dispersed members of his family.
He is on the point of being able to re-purchase his home from whoever bought it after it had fallen into revolutionary hands, having spent years at sea and supplementing his income with covert work undertaken for the British government. Following one such mission, Lavay was attacked and badly wounded, and has removed to Pennyroyal Green in order to recuperate - and he is now faced with a difficult choice. One final mission will pay him sufficiently well as to enable him to reclaim his home and return to France, although given his physical condition, it’s not really much of an option. The alternative is for him to marry the money he needs in the form of the beautiful, self-assured Lady Alexandra Prideux, who would make him the perfect wife.
With his focus so firmly on difficult choices and on trying to deal with the amount of pain he is in, Lavay’s household goes its own way; the house is unkempt and his servants lazy. Upon the recommendation of Violet Redmond - now the Countess of Ardmay – Lavay interviews Mrs Elise Fountain for the post of Housekeeper, and engages her for a two-week trial.
Elise has recently been dismissed from her post as a teacher at Miss Endicott’s School following some malicious gossip, perpetrated by one of the pupils there, that her six-year-old son – Jack – is illegitimate. Elise cannot approach her family for help because they disowned her when she told them she was pregnant, so she must work to support herself and Jack. Immensely relieved at having – even temporarily – secured a position, Elise metaphorically rolls up her sleeves and gets to work, very quickly making it clear to the servants that their easy life is at an end, but winning them to her side with a mixture of good-humour and fairness that promises the sort of stability which is essential for the smooth running of the household.
I said at the beginning that the story has a “Jane Eyre-ish” vibe to it, and that comes from the relationship that springs up between the wounded nobleman and his servant – although of course, Elise is a housekeeper rather than a governess. Lavay is grumpy and rather forbidding at the outset, but there’s a wickedly dry sense of humour lurking underneath, which reminded me very much of Rochester as he plays verbal games with Jane. And like Jane, Elise gives as good as she gets, even as she admits that Lord Lavay is just a little bit scary – although not because of his ill temper or tight control. What frightens Elise is the way she responds to him; her past experience left her pregnant and abandoned, so she is naturally wary of forming an attachment which, given their relative stations in life, can only lead to more heartache. But even as her head gives her reasons to keep away, her heart can’t deny the strength of the attraction building between them, and of the way she wishes, just once, to have someone to lean on and to see her as beautiful and charming.
It Started With a Scandal is an absolute delight from start to finish, and is definitely going on to my keeper shelf. The central characters are wonderfully characterised and perfect for each other, even though they come from very different spheres of life. Level-headed and determined, both have a strong sense of responsibility to others – Elise puts her son’s welfare above her own happiness, and Philippe is prepared to sacrifice his so that he can take care of those who depend upon him. Their loyalty and honour is balanced beautifully by their innate kindness and by the playful side of themselves they rarely allow others to see. They also have in common the fact that they are both adrift, neither of them quite fitting in with any particular echelon of society. Elise is well-born, but has had to take employment in order to support herself and her son, and Lavay feels out of place among his peers, people he comes to realise are as unbending now as they ever were.
The romance is a delicious slow-burn, full of sexual tension and wonderfully witty banter which, I readily admit, is my drug of choice when it comes to romance reading. But the book is so more than that – even as Lavay and Elise trade quips, they are becoming attuned to each other so that they learn almost as much about each other from what they don’t say as what they do. Their conversations are as laced with poignancy as with wit, which is one of the things that elevates this story from being a mere “feelgood” romance with lots of great, sexually-charged banter to being something far deeper. One particular moment pin-pointed this for me – a conversation about home which shows the importance of such a thing to both characters. Eloise lost hers when her parents disowned her and Philippe lost his in a much more violent way, but eventually they both come to see that home really IS where the heart is.
It Started With a Scandal is a beautifully written, character-driven romance, full of warmth, charm and depth – and I loved every minute of it.
March 13, 2021
If you're a hot-blooded human, you probably had or have a thing for Captain Von Trapp...Well, it's time for the fine captain (immortalized by stern brunch daddy Christopher Plummer) to step aside—there’s a new ice king captain in town. And this time, he’s actually a Bourbon prince.
Convalescing in Pennyroyal Green, Philippe—son of French aristocrats who were killed or scattered in the revolution—is recovering from the loss of his family and way of life. He’s scarred from a near-death attack, he’s in pain, he’s lonely, and he’s ice cold. He’s also deliciously French—dry witted and sensual even as he tries to subdue it for his pragmatic, ruthless plans to restore his fortunes and do what it takes to fulfill his duty. The last thing he counted on was falling for the determined, creative, compassionate Elise Fountain—his new housekeeper.
Elise was a fiercely lovable heroine. She’s a single mother just barely skirting total ruin, abandoned by her family. Her painful circumstances never leave her, yet she focuses on doing whatever good she can in her present. She epitomizes resilience. I loved how even though she’d been deeply hurt, she didn’t allow herself to be numbed. She still felt, empathized, desired. She had pride and vision and principles. As it goes for Philippe, it wasn’t hard to fall for Elise.
As for the romance itself? Hoooo boy, the sexual tension. This was a fierce slow burn and I wouldn’t say the physical intimacy was JAL’s steamiest, but where this book truly shone—and let’s be real, it always shines in JAL’s writing—was the emotional intimacy. She has a true talent for crafting characters whose chemistry, whose connection and soul-mate belonging you never question. Her romances are a masterclass in writing a One True Pairing, and It Started with a Scandal is a shining example.
I probably sound like a broken record by now, but once again, I adored this. I love the Pennyroyal Green world—its characters and haunts and the cozy belonging I now feel when I read a Pennyroyal book. I can’t wait to read the next one.
Convalescing in Pennyroyal Green, Philippe—son of French aristocrats who were killed or scattered in the revolution—is recovering from the loss of his family and way of life. He’s scarred from a near-death attack, he’s in pain, he’s lonely, and he’s ice cold. He’s also deliciously French—dry witted and sensual even as he tries to subdue it for his pragmatic, ruthless plans to restore his fortunes and do what it takes to fulfill his duty. The last thing he counted on was falling for the determined, creative, compassionate Elise Fountain—his new housekeeper.
Elise was a fiercely lovable heroine. She’s a single mother just barely skirting total ruin, abandoned by her family. Her painful circumstances never leave her, yet she focuses on doing whatever good she can in her present. She epitomizes resilience. I loved how even though she’d been deeply hurt, she didn’t allow herself to be numbed. She still felt, empathized, desired. She had pride and vision and principles. As it goes for Philippe, it wasn’t hard to fall for Elise.
As for the romance itself? Hoooo boy, the sexual tension. This was a fierce slow burn and I wouldn’t say the physical intimacy was JAL’s steamiest, but where this book truly shone—and let’s be real, it always shines in JAL’s writing—was the emotional intimacy. She has a true talent for crafting characters whose chemistry, whose connection and soul-mate belonging you never question. Her romances are a masterclass in writing a One True Pairing, and It Started with a Scandal is a shining example.
I probably sound like a broken record by now, but once again, I adored this. I love the Pennyroyal Green world—its characters and haunts and the cozy belonging I now feel when I read a Pennyroyal book. I can’t wait to read the next one.
![Profile Image for [Aengell].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1431033477i%2F7221205._UX200_CR0%2C26%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
April 19, 2015
4 Stars
This is yet another splendid taste I got from Julie Anne Long, there's not denying that she's a skillful author.
Although the story is summed up easily, there's nothing simple about this read. We have a French Prince, Philippe Lavay, fatefully stranded in Pennyroyal Green. Grumpy, aloof and nothing but haughty, he needs a housekeeper, since all the ones he's hired recently seem to flee out of his devil clutches. Sounds pretty exciting? The next housekeeper he hires brings even more excitement into the situation. Elise Fountain desperately needs a job to provide for her little boy, so even a rumored beast of a Lord isn't able to scare her.
Seeing Philippe and Elise together is what makes this book so, so enjoyable, and it wasn't only a delight to read their banter, how they learned to hide kind of secret messages in between a, at first, strictly professional relationship. The dialogue was enticing, witty, and made me giddy enough to root for both, and to hope for a fast way of seeing them with their feelings laid bare.
Philippe's character is dark and moody, but in the course of the novel the Frenchman appears, who can be as charming and humorous as he should be.
But although he falls into the category of heroes I really love, Elise stole the show.
She is a strong heroine who doesn't have to be stubborn about every little thing to show her independence or skills or anything else heroines are often decorated with in Historicals. She knew just how to handle certain situations, whether concerning the staff at Lavay's manor or the Lavay himself. She also had an easy, natural sense of humor and a quiet, subdued temper, so her strength and straightness as a housekeeper didn't go into the category of being boring.
Anyone who has read a Julie Anne Long book knows what pace to expect. The development of the relationship between Elise and Lavay is very slow, at the beginning even a bit too slow, and the whole plot builds around that slow pace.
I love a slow-building romance, which is the main reason the last 20-30% of the novel flat for me. Until that point it is beautiful to watch their love grow, and although their desire for each other plays a role from the beginning, it got a little out of hand in the end. I found myself being a little confused and not really able to separate their desire for each other from their deep-going love. Here it should have been written in a more harmonic way and maybe more stressed on the emotional connection. I don't think that many readers, especially fans of JAL, will agree with me here, but through my confusion I felt that I couldn't enjoy the end 100%, although it was a beautiful ending.
All in all, this was an angsty, emotional read and I will keep my eyes open for Lyon and Olivia's story.
This is yet another splendid taste I got from Julie Anne Long, there's not denying that she's a skillful author.
Although the story is summed up easily, there's nothing simple about this read. We have a French Prince, Philippe Lavay, fatefully stranded in Pennyroyal Green. Grumpy, aloof and nothing but haughty, he needs a housekeeper, since all the ones he's hired recently seem to flee out of his devil clutches. Sounds pretty exciting? The next housekeeper he hires brings even more excitement into the situation. Elise Fountain desperately needs a job to provide for her little boy, so even a rumored beast of a Lord isn't able to scare her.
Seeing Philippe and Elise together is what makes this book so, so enjoyable, and it wasn't only a delight to read their banter, how they learned to hide kind of secret messages in between a, at first, strictly professional relationship. The dialogue was enticing, witty, and made me giddy enough to root for both, and to hope for a fast way of seeing them with their feelings laid bare.
Philippe's character is dark and moody, but in the course of the novel the Frenchman appears, who can be as charming and humorous as he should be.
But although he falls into the category of heroes I really love, Elise stole the show.
She is a strong heroine who doesn't have to be stubborn about every little thing to show her independence or skills or anything else heroines are often decorated with in Historicals. She knew just how to handle certain situations, whether concerning the staff at Lavay's manor or the Lavay himself. She also had an easy, natural sense of humor and a quiet, subdued temper, so her strength and straightness as a housekeeper didn't go into the category of being boring.
Anyone who has read a Julie Anne Long book knows what pace to expect. The development of the relationship between Elise and Lavay is very slow, at the beginning even a bit too slow, and the whole plot builds around that slow pace.
I love a slow-building romance, which is the main reason the last 20-30% of the novel flat for me. Until that point it is beautiful to watch their love grow, and although their desire for each other plays a role from the beginning, it got a little out of hand in the end. I found myself being a little confused and not really able to separate their desire for each other from their deep-going love. Here it should have been written in a more harmonic way and maybe more stressed on the emotional connection. I don't think that many readers, especially fans of JAL, will agree with me here, but through my confusion I felt that I couldn't enjoy the end 100%, although it was a beautiful ending.
All in all, this was an angsty, emotional read and I will keep my eyes open for Lyon and Olivia's story.
November 3, 2017
7/10 - 2.5 but I'm feeling generous and rounding up because it's partly my fault for gambling on a book that I knew was near to the end of the series. This was a pretty decent romance that I'm sure I would have enjoyed about a star more if I had read the previous books in the series. Lord Philippe Lavay and Elise Fountain have both been secondary characters in previous books in the series and I'm sure if I had read any of those I would have had a better understanding of them and this book. There were lots of discussions of the main two families featured in the series - the Everseas and the Redmonds - and previous characters showed up to chat a couple of times. Often the less picky reader can read a random book from an established series like this one and it's just fine, sometimes it even works for me. This was not one of those times.
*Note to self Don't read books from the middle of series unless you have already read the previous books, it's just not worth the time and effort no matter how good the book is.
A couple of other reviewers mentioned that this book was like coming home to see old friends and that probably would have worked for me, but I didn't know the characters so they were unknown people. I didn't feel much either way for Philippe or Elise. Their chemistry was pretty low-burn. Not slow-burn where it eventually becomes a roaring blaze, but low-burn where you stand there looking at the fire wondering whether it's going to go out the minute you turn away. To me it felt like Philippe and Elise 'liked' each other, were good friends and respected each other, but that was it. It was like the 'friends to lovers' trope without the passion. Okay, if I don't stop writing, I'm going to talk myself into lowering the rating to a two and I don't think that's really fair, so that's the extent of my feelings on this book. Will definitely read the first book in the series to see if that helps the situation.
*Note to self Don't read books from the middle of series unless you have already read the previous books, it's just not worth the time and effort no matter how good the book is.
A couple of other reviewers mentioned that this book was like coming home to see old friends and that probably would have worked for me, but I didn't know the characters so they were unknown people. I didn't feel much either way for Philippe or Elise. Their chemistry was pretty low-burn. Not slow-burn where it eventually becomes a roaring blaze, but low-burn where you stand there looking at the fire wondering whether it's going to go out the minute you turn away. To me it felt like Philippe and Elise 'liked' each other, were good friends and respected each other, but that was it. It was like the 'friends to lovers' trope without the passion. Okay, if I don't stop writing, I'm going to talk myself into lowering the rating to a two and I don't think that's really fair, so that's the extent of my feelings on this book. Will definitely read the first book in the series to see if that helps the situation.
September 9, 2025
Awesomeness. This gave me The Raven Prince vibes (Elizabeth Hoyt) but with more humour. Another beautifully written gem. Philippe was another of these Heroes' Heroes...good down to his core, non judgemental, and deeply protective. What a great story. I love a book with children in it; one in which everyone gets their HEA. Just a total beaut. This one really tugs at the heartstrings.
Thank you Julie Anne💗📚💗
Thank you Julie Anne💗📚💗
May 21, 2023
Magnificent! Or should I say Magnifique!
If you love care taking, class difference with no mistress Trope, small gestures that mean everything, small children who believe in fairy tales with single moms who will do anything to protect them...
Add in a grumpy, injured, French prince who’s life is in disrepair and needs a ray of sunshine in it.... well, this book might enchant you the way it did me.
5 stars
1.5 on the spice scale
If you love care taking, class difference with no mistress Trope, small gestures that mean everything, small children who believe in fairy tales with single moms who will do anything to protect them...
Add in a grumpy, injured, French prince who’s life is in disrepair and needs a ray of sunshine in it.... well, this book might enchant you the way it did me.
5 stars
1.5 on the spice scale
July 12, 2022
Lord Philippe Lavay has used his charm and skill with a sword in his work as a privateer, attempting to restore his family’s honor and wealth. He was nearly successful until a vicious attack nearly ended his life and sent him to Pennyroyal Green to recuperate.
Elise Fountain enjoyed an illicit tryst six years ago, but the consequences still follow her. She loves her son and doesn’t regret her actions, but they have seen her cut off from her family and most recently let go from her work as a teacher. This means she has no choice but to accept the social fall of working as a housekeeper, in a position no other has been able to keep for long, working for a temperamental French prince.
Elise sees through Philippe’s surly exterior and recognizes the pain and injuries he’s struggling with, and he can’t help but notice her as a woman. He thought himself incapable of love and she believed her trust to be irreparably broken, but they are both left battling a tempestuous passion that threatens to rise between them and could ruin both of their plans for the future.
This is the slowest burn I’ve read in some time, but it was the sort that you savor. Elise and Phillippe had a pretty immediate connection, even as they both tried to fight it. Elise is leery of being hurt again and Philippe is struggling to find his place in the aftermath of his family’s displacement by the French Revolution. The interactions between these two built into a delightful sensuality and I really enjoyed seeing their rapport develop. They both fought their connection, but it still felt inevitable, and I loved that it was Elise who pointed out what their feelings towards each other truly meant when Philippe was still a little clueless. My favorite aspect here was that Philippe got his priorities straight after he realized what he felt, and he didn’t hesitate or shy away from those feelings. He knew what truly mattered and that was exceptionally romantic to me. The admission of feelings scene between these two was utterly adorable and served as a good reminder of why I enjoy romance books in the first place. This was an excellent addition to the series, and I loved seeing a supporting character get his HEA, though now I’m dying for Seamus Duggan to find someone.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Elise Fountain enjoyed an illicit tryst six years ago, but the consequences still follow her. She loves her son and doesn’t regret her actions, but they have seen her cut off from her family and most recently let go from her work as a teacher. This means she has no choice but to accept the social fall of working as a housekeeper, in a position no other has been able to keep for long, working for a temperamental French prince.
Elise sees through Philippe’s surly exterior and recognizes the pain and injuries he’s struggling with, and he can’t help but notice her as a woman. He thought himself incapable of love and she believed her trust to be irreparably broken, but they are both left battling a tempestuous passion that threatens to rise between them and could ruin both of their plans for the future.
This is the slowest burn I’ve read in some time, but it was the sort that you savor. Elise and Phillippe had a pretty immediate connection, even as they both tried to fight it. Elise is leery of being hurt again and Philippe is struggling to find his place in the aftermath of his family’s displacement by the French Revolution. The interactions between these two built into a delightful sensuality and I really enjoyed seeing their rapport develop. They both fought their connection, but it still felt inevitable, and I loved that it was Elise who pointed out what their feelings towards each other truly meant when Philippe was still a little clueless. My favorite aspect here was that Philippe got his priorities straight after he realized what he felt, and he didn’t hesitate or shy away from those feelings. He knew what truly mattered and that was exceptionally romantic to me. The admission of feelings scene between these two was utterly adorable and served as a good reminder of why I enjoy romance books in the first place. This was an excellent addition to the series, and I loved seeing a supporting character get his HEA, though now I’m dying for Seamus Duggan to find someone.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 2, 2022
3.25 stars
I like the employer/employee romance trope and enjoyed this book. There were some witty banter and familial heartwarming moments that made me shed a few tears of joy. There was little plot outside of the relationship but I didn't mind this time since I liked both hero and heroine. Her five-year-old son, Jack, is just adorable and hard not to fall in love with. I do feel a little bad for Seamus Duggan (Evie's brother from A Notorious Countess Confesses) at the end though. I hope he gets his own HEA. Olivia Eversea, Landsdowne, and Lyon Redmond make very brief appearances. I hope Landsdowne remains a good man and find his own HEA as well. The book ends on a cliffhanger and Lyon's book begins right where this scene ends. I hope his book was worth the wait.
Some memorable quotes:
(p.49) 13%:
Lavay: “Are you implying that something else in this room would benefit from a beating, Mrs. Fountain?” he said idly, dragging the letter toward him.
LaVay has a tendency to break vases when he's angry or frustrated about something.
(p.159) 41%
Elise: “Would you like me to throw the vase for you, sir?”
His mouth quirked at the corner. “If you would be so kind.”
She picked it up and quite deliberately and gently placed it at the far end of the mantel, well out of his reach.
“Excellent aim,” he said dryly.
“Thank you.”
Following that scene, Lavay dictates a letter to his sister.
p.171 (45%)
Elise: “You will be able to rub it for yourself, with your other hand, and I think you will find that things improve rapidly.”
Lavay:“I’ve become accustomed to rubbing it for myself with my other hand.”
She froze.
They're discussing how to massage his injured hand, or are they...?!?!?! 😉
This next quote made me 😭😭😭
(p. 335) 86%
This declaration of love! 😍😭
(p.370) 94%
I like the employer/employee romance trope and enjoyed this book. There were some witty banter and familial heartwarming moments that made me shed a few tears of joy. There was little plot outside of the relationship but I didn't mind this time since I liked both hero and heroine. Her five-year-old son, Jack, is just adorable and hard not to fall in love with. I do feel a little bad for Seamus Duggan (Evie's brother from A Notorious Countess Confesses) at the end though. I hope he gets his own HEA. Olivia Eversea, Landsdowne, and Lyon Redmond make very brief appearances. I hope Landsdowne remains a good man and find his own HEA as well. The book ends on a cliffhanger and Lyon's book begins right where this scene ends. I hope his book was worth the wait.
Some memorable quotes:
(p.49) 13%:
Lavay: “Are you implying that something else in this room would benefit from a beating, Mrs. Fountain?” he said idly, dragging the letter toward him.
LaVay has a tendency to break vases when he's angry or frustrated about something.
(p.159) 41%
Elise: “Would you like me to throw the vase for you, sir?”
His mouth quirked at the corner. “If you would be so kind.”
She picked it up and quite deliberately and gently placed it at the far end of the mantel, well out of his reach.
“Excellent aim,” he said dryly.
“Thank you.”
Following that scene, Lavay dictates a letter to his sister.
p.171 (45%)
Elise: “You will be able to rub it for yourself, with your other hand, and I think you will find that things improve rapidly.”
Lavay:“I’ve become accustomed to rubbing it for myself with my other hand.”
She froze.
They're discussing how to massage his injured hand, or are they...?!?!?! 😉
This next quote made me 😭😭😭
(p. 335) 86%
This declaration of love! 😍😭
(p.370) 94%
August 13, 2017
What a wonderful book! Julie Anne Long has written a story full of sweetness and hope. I absolutely loved it. Elise and Phillipe were incredibly genuine and their interactions were touching and often funny. The romance developed on a straight path with no silly detours or interruptions. This is romance at its finest -- two lonely people who fulfill each other's needs. Each enhances the other. These two people (and her son) are truly better for being together. The book did not need an epilogue for us to know that this relationship is real and enduring. I have loved the entire Pennyroyal Green series, but this is probably the strongest of all the books.
This is an honest review provided in exchange for the privilege of reading an ARC of the book.
This is an honest review provided in exchange for the privilege of reading an ARC of the book.
July 22, 2016
I like it, but don't love it. You can definitely read this as a stand-alone book, but there are supporting characters that tie into the previous installments and I find myself lacking some information about MC's background. I also feel the emotional conflict between a prince and a servant a bit unconvincing. On the positive note, the drama never go OTT and that is a good thing.
May 2, 2015
I liked it well enough until near the end. The idea that an intelligent, educated woman without resources who lost everything due to bearing a child out of wedlock would risk doing it again. It's appalling.
May 30, 2015
Lovely, beautiful, everything I look for in a book. Julie Anne Long really is a wonderful writer.
April 2, 2023
This was unexpectedly cute! Jack was a delight awww :)))
December 16, 2021
My first try at this author. I've read a lot of regencies and am very particular. I especially hate a book that seems as if it is written about modern characters in fancy dress. So happy this was not the case here. This book was charming. The strongest point I believe was the dialog. I was smiling throughout. It wasn't overt in your face humor. It was sweet and charming.
The hero was a tortured brooding guy which is a trope I love. The heroine was strong but in a sweet quiet way. Her young son was well written and really added to the story. The plot and the emotions were believable. The ending was wonderful and fitting.
I will definitely be checking out more from this author.
The hero was a tortured brooding guy which is a trope I love. The heroine was strong but in a sweet quiet way. Her young son was well written and really added to the story. The plot and the emotions were believable. The ending was wonderful and fitting.
I will definitely be checking out more from this author.
June 2, 2015
Thank you to AVON and Edelweiss for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Julie Anne Long is one of those authors I’ve been ‘meaning to read’ for years. I was reading historicals when her very first Pennyroyal Green book was released, but I was caught up in other authors and series at the time. Before I knew it, there were so many books that it was overwhelming to start. The blurb for this one seemed right up my alley, so I decided to jump right in. Now I’m kicking myself for not reading this author sooner!
It Started with a Scandal was a beautifully written story about a physically scarred hero and an emotionally scarred heroine who find compassion and love where they least expect it. I loved both of the main characters. Elise was determined and level-headed. She was kind and loyal, and she had responsibilities. Instead of making hasty decisions, she took the time to think things through. It was a lesson she’d learned the hard way. Philippe was much like that – he took his duties very seriously, and he was willing to give up his own happiness to ensure he was able to take care of them. Though when Philippe’s circumstances and heart changed, his priorities shifted, and it was something he embraced. He wasn’t so caught up in how things ‘should have been’ that he couldn’t see them for what they were.
…he would do anything for her. He simply could not differentiate what was best for her or himself, because they seemed one and the same.
I thought the pacing of this story was perfect, and every scene had a purpose. If it wasn’t Elise and Philippe solidifying their connection, it was a glimpse into how the characters became who they were. The romance in this story was like building blocks of emotion – each one meticulously positioned before the next one slid into place. The gradual build of Elise and Philippe’s love for each other made it credible. I also thought they were well-matched. They may have come from very different stations in life, but as Philippe’s housekeeper, Elise led her charges the way I imagine Philippe commanded the men on his ship – with an iron fist and unwavering expectations. They were both extremely loyal to those they loved.
It Started with a Scandal was a charming love story that captivated me from the very beginning; it’s my favorite read of 2015 so far. I’m a huge fan of historical romance where one of the main characters bucks convention in order to be with the one they love.
Needless to say, I have already purchased the first book in the series and am excited to dive in!
This review was originally posted at Badass Book Reviews.
Julie Anne Long is one of those authors I’ve been ‘meaning to read’ for years. I was reading historicals when her very first Pennyroyal Green book was released, but I was caught up in other authors and series at the time. Before I knew it, there were so many books that it was overwhelming to start. The blurb for this one seemed right up my alley, so I decided to jump right in. Now I’m kicking myself for not reading this author sooner!
It Started with a Scandal was a beautifully written story about a physically scarred hero and an emotionally scarred heroine who find compassion and love where they least expect it. I loved both of the main characters. Elise was determined and level-headed. She was kind and loyal, and she had responsibilities. Instead of making hasty decisions, she took the time to think things through. It was a lesson she’d learned the hard way. Philippe was much like that – he took his duties very seriously, and he was willing to give up his own happiness to ensure he was able to take care of them. Though when Philippe’s circumstances and heart changed, his priorities shifted, and it was something he embraced. He wasn’t so caught up in how things ‘should have been’ that he couldn’t see them for what they were.
…he would do anything for her. He simply could not differentiate what was best for her or himself, because they seemed one and the same.
I thought the pacing of this story was perfect, and every scene had a purpose. If it wasn’t Elise and Philippe solidifying their connection, it was a glimpse into how the characters became who they were. The romance in this story was like building blocks of emotion – each one meticulously positioned before the next one slid into place. The gradual build of Elise and Philippe’s love for each other made it credible. I also thought they were well-matched. They may have come from very different stations in life, but as Philippe’s housekeeper, Elise led her charges the way I imagine Philippe commanded the men on his ship – with an iron fist and unwavering expectations. They were both extremely loyal to those they loved.
It Started with a Scandal was a charming love story that captivated me from the very beginning; it’s my favorite read of 2015 so far. I’m a huge fan of historical romance where one of the main characters bucks convention in order to be with the one they love.
Needless to say, I have already purchased the first book in the series and am excited to dive in!
This review was originally posted at Badass Book Reviews.
June 20, 2016
I am so hungry and the cursed cooking show going in the next room isn't helping. Beware the liberal use "foody" words. I am not responsible for making people hungry.
Let's get down to the review shall we?
There’s something about stories that have characters defying all odds to find their version of happiness. They act as a source of hope and encouragement for us readers to strive for own selves.
It Started with a Scandal is just that. With a generous dollop of sweet romance and large serving of heart-warming plot devices, it’s a wonderful read. What’s even better is that the female lead isn’t made out to be some hapless victim of circumstances. She’s got a strong spine, is full of spunk and has a mighty character. She’s the kind of woman you’ll actually want to be friends with in real life.
The male lead could’ve been better. He’s almost overshadowed by the female lead at times but he manages to emerge as a really delicious piece of male specimen. His growth as character in the second half of the book is very much appreciated.
I don’t say this much but I think I’ll read this one again in future. I had great fun while reading it.
Let's get down to the review shall we?
There’s something about stories that have characters defying all odds to find their version of happiness. They act as a source of hope and encouragement for us readers to strive for own selves.
It Started with a Scandal is just that. With a generous dollop of sweet romance and large serving of heart-warming plot devices, it’s a wonderful read. What’s even better is that the female lead isn’t made out to be some hapless victim of circumstances. She’s got a strong spine, is full of spunk and has a mighty character. She’s the kind of woman you’ll actually want to be friends with in real life.
The male lead could’ve been better. He’s almost overshadowed by the female lead at times but he manages to emerge as a really delicious piece of male specimen. His growth as character in the second half of the book is very much appreciated.
I don’t say this much but I think I’ll read this one again in future. I had great fun while reading it.
April 27, 2022
Absolutely loved this one!
JAL's heroines are truly incomparable. Just like Cynthia Brightly in Like no Other Lover, the girl who wants to make a good marriage at any cost to save herself from ruin and doesn't apologize for her mercenary ways, this book's Elise is an unwed mother, who makes no excuses for her sorry state. This isn't a heroine whose blemished staus is the result of ravishment by a villain. It's simply the result of a passion that she's unashamed of, and unleashes freely on Lord Lavay. These kinds of heroines are hard to write in an HR context, and JAL fleshes them out so beautifully.
I loved Lavay too- he reminded me a little of my fave Julian Spenser from How the Marquess was won in this series.
It's also intriguing how some of my favourites in this series are the ones where the Everseas and Redmonds are peripheral characters.
Now onwards to Lyon and Olivia's finale!
JAL's heroines are truly incomparable. Just like Cynthia Brightly in Like no Other Lover, the girl who wants to make a good marriage at any cost to save herself from ruin and doesn't apologize for her mercenary ways, this book's Elise is an unwed mother, who makes no excuses for her sorry state. This isn't a heroine whose blemished staus is the result of ravishment by a villain. It's simply the result of a passion that she's unashamed of, and unleashes freely on Lord Lavay. These kinds of heroines are hard to write in an HR context, and JAL fleshes them out so beautifully.
I loved Lavay too- he reminded me a little of my fave Julian Spenser from How the Marquess was won in this series.
It's also intriguing how some of my favourites in this series are the ones where the Everseas and Redmonds are peripheral characters.
Now onwards to Lyon and Olivia's finale!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 524 reviews