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Bow Street Runners #1
Someone to Watch Over Me
Alternative cover editions for this ISBN can be found here and here.
Grant Morgan is one of London's most eligible and unattainable bachelors. He's also a powerful member of the Bow Street Runners, and when he's called to the waterfront late one night to investigate a drowning victim, Grant is stunned to recognize the face of Vivien Rose Duvall, a well-known woman of the night. He's even more startled when he realizes that she's alive. With no one to care for her, Grant carries Vivien to his home and revives her, only to learn that she is suffering from amnesia.
Vivien hesitantly accepts her handsome rescuer's claim that she is his mistress, despite her misgivings about her true identity. Nevertheless, she can't deny the marks on her throat that prove her near-drowning in the Thames was not an accident, and now she must trust the man who claims her as his paramour, for her life is in danger. As Grant searches for Vivien's attacker, the two find themselves falling in love, all the while struggling to stay one step ahead of the evil forces that will stop at nothing to see Vivien dead.
Grant Morgan is one of London's most eligible and unattainable bachelors. He's also a powerful member of the Bow Street Runners, and when he's called to the waterfront late one night to investigate a drowning victim, Grant is stunned to recognize the face of Vivien Rose Duvall, a well-known woman of the night. He's even more startled when he realizes that she's alive. With no one to care for her, Grant carries Vivien to his home and revives her, only to learn that she is suffering from amnesia.
Vivien hesitantly accepts her handsome rescuer's claim that she is his mistress, despite her misgivings about her true identity. Nevertheless, she can't deny the marks on her throat that prove her near-drowning in the Thames was not an accident, and now she must trust the man who claims her as his paramour, for her life is in danger. As Grant searches for Vivien's attacker, the two find themselves falling in love, all the while struggling to stay one step ahead of the evil forces that will stop at nothing to see Vivien dead.
362 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 1, 1998
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About the author
Lisa Kleypas
117 books31.1k followersLISA KLEYPAS is the RITA award-winning author of 21 novels. Her books are published in fourteen languages and are bestsellers all over the world. She lives in Washington State with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,723 reviews
September 24, 2010
This book reminded me of the time when my prostitute twin sister let me be mistaken for her when I had amenesia after being attacked by her angry john (and father of her unborn baby). I was saved by an angry policeman who thought I was the hooker that once spurned him (no amount of money in the world! Not for every loose Canadian coin in the couch, etc.). Luckily, he had seen Overboard with Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn (a classic film) and let me think we had a relationship where he wore the pants and I wore the lingerie. When we were kids, we'd have to apologize and kiss and make up to solve fights. That solution works very well for what hero Grant did to his heroine. Real life isn't that easy. Not for all the tea in china, or the Boston harbor either, would I have forgiven Grant that easily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2012
"She was sore in places she had never been sore before.” Is this an awesome quote, or what?
I think OD’ed on this girly porn, I had a good reason but I need to stop now and read some James Joyce or something.
Spoilers ahead. I am not going to even officially mark it as a spoiler because if you didn’t see that coming from the very first page then you don’t deserve to be warned.
A certain tall, strapping Bow Street Runner named Grant finds a nearly dead woman fished out of Thames. To his surprise and delight it is Vivien – most expensive and most desired courtesan of London. And Grant has a bone to pick with her, so he takes her to his house where he intends to have his little revenge. Vivien regains her consciousness but sadly can’t remember a thing, so she can’t provide any clues as to who might want to kill her. She also appears very shy, modest, weirdly into books and absolutely mortified when she finds out she is supposed to be this high flying prostitute. Anyone who has ever seen at least half an episode of any soap opera knows damn well that amnesia goes hand in hand with people having secret twin siblings. Only Grant has never seen any soap opera so he is convinced Vivian playing some silly game. And, of course, how will he find out how wrong he was? Don’t tell me you don’t see it coming. He will have sex with her and bam, realizes she can’t possibly by nation-wide famous prostitute, as she is (or was, now, thanks to him) very much a virgin.
So yeah, a bit out there, non? But probability is not what I want from my girly porn. Neither do I want historical accuracy. If I wanted historical accuracy I would read Dickens. As it is, the setting of Regency romances is a fantasy world, that has its rules, but they don’t really have to be historically accurate. It is something like Middle-earth, if you like.
Eventually ‘Vivien’ learns the truth, finds out that Grant was a bit of a dick who lied to her and is angry at him for like half a page. It goes like this: “You….!!, you..!! Hey, wanna go down on me again?”.
The ending of the book was spoiled with too much mushiness, with Grant promising things like “I will never be apart from for more than two hours”, and all sort of nonsense on and on. For pages. I thought: “Ok, lady, enough. You’re beating a dead horse here.”
I think OD’ed on this girly porn, I had a good reason but I need to stop now and read some James Joyce or something.
Spoilers ahead. I am not going to even officially mark it as a spoiler because if you didn’t see that coming from the very first page then you don’t deserve to be warned.
A certain tall, strapping Bow Street Runner named Grant finds a nearly dead woman fished out of Thames. To his surprise and delight it is Vivien – most expensive and most desired courtesan of London. And Grant has a bone to pick with her, so he takes her to his house where he intends to have his little revenge. Vivien regains her consciousness but sadly can’t remember a thing, so she can’t provide any clues as to who might want to kill her. She also appears very shy, modest, weirdly into books and absolutely mortified when she finds out she is supposed to be this high flying prostitute. Anyone who has ever seen at least half an episode of any soap opera knows damn well that amnesia goes hand in hand with people having secret twin siblings. Only Grant has never seen any soap opera so he is convinced Vivian playing some silly game. And, of course, how will he find out how wrong he was? Don’t tell me you don’t see it coming. He will have sex with her and bam, realizes she can’t possibly by nation-wide famous prostitute, as she is (or was, now, thanks to him) very much a virgin.
So yeah, a bit out there, non? But probability is not what I want from my girly porn. Neither do I want historical accuracy. If I wanted historical accuracy I would read Dickens. As it is, the setting of Regency romances is a fantasy world, that has its rules, but they don’t really have to be historically accurate. It is something like Middle-earth, if you like.
Eventually ‘Vivien’ learns the truth, finds out that Grant was a bit of a dick who lied to her and is angry at him for like half a page. It goes like this: “You….!!, you..!! Hey, wanna go down on me again?”.
The ending of the book was spoiled with too much mushiness, with Grant promising things like “I will never be apart from for more than two hours”, and all sort of nonsense on and on. For pages. I thought: “Ok, lady, enough. You’re beating a dead horse here.”
April 24, 2022
“It will change nothing between you and me. And when you recover your memory, I don’t give a damn about what or whom you remember. I had no part of your past…but I intend to be your future.”
Grant Morgan is a bow street runner who has a celebrity reputation. During one of his investigations, he was stunned to find that the woman who nearly drowned in the Thames was Vivien Rose Duvall, London’s most celebrated courtesan. Grant is even more surprised to discover that she has no idea of who she is and has no memories of the past. Remembering that Vivien once spread rumors about him, he saw this as an opportunity to get back at her. He would care for the lady under his roof, all the while investigating who wanted her dead. And while Vivien is sure that she isn’t a courtesan, she has no choice but to put her trust in the stranger who claims she is his mistress. When the truth comes out, will Vivien be able to put her faith in the man who took advantage of the trust she wholeheartedly gave him the first time? Is Vivien truly the lady Grant believed her to be?
Someone to watch over me is the first book from Lisa Kleypas’ historical romance series, Bow Street Runners. This tells the story of Grant Morgan and V Duvall. This one is an earlier work of Kleypas. I had my reservations about this and initially didn’t want to read it but I am very into the amnesia trope so I thought I’d give this book a chance and I am glad I did! Kleypas is such a dependable writer and whenever I am looking for a book that I know would be good, I go back to all of her works and search for something that would catch my interest.
I loved the heroine. I think I almost always love the heroines this author creates. I realized it is because they’re the perfect mix of gentleness without being a doormat. They are ready to be cared for by their hero but they also have a backbone when challenged. They aren’t stupid and yet they aren’t an annoying know-it-all. According to the hero and all of London society, she is a courtesan but the heroine feels strongly that she isn’t because even though she doesn’t remember anything, it just doesn’t feel right. I actually already know the twist because I’ve read spoilers! So if you still haven’t read this, I suggest you stop reading my review altogether because I don’t like putting spoiler reviews. I like having it out in the open! When the hero first met her, she was this vain, manipulative, mercenary woman which was why when Vivien acted differently, he was very confused. I feel like it is important for me to point out that I don’t agree with the hero’s views towards Vivien, I think courtesans did what they had to do in order to survive especially during their era. I will always admire women who know how to use people and what they have (does that sound bad?) in order to survive in life. But of course, who I loved better was this new woman who loved books, cared for Grant, was gentle, humble, and wasn't afraid to lift a finger and do simple tasks because she didn’t want to be a burden. She was also admirable because when challenged, she wasn’t one to back down! She is not idiotic and I loved that because I thought she’d be one of those heroines who would put themselves in danger because they didn’t know any better. This woman was accident prone but not because she was stupid, rather, bad people were just out to get her.
Grant Morgan wasn’t a hero to swoon over. He is this very alpha man which would let the reader know that this book was written decades ago. He wasn’t always nice. In fact, he was a hateful man. While he doesn’t resent the heroine for the rumors she spread about him, he feels very strongly that she should have what he deemed as “comeuppance” because apparently she used men. Which I disagree with, it is those men who used Vivien and preyed on her because how else would a courtesan be successful if it weren’t for perverted men? He knows that the heroine is a courtesan, and even this knowledge didn’t stop the hero from forming an attachment to the heroine. Sometimes, you just can’t choose who you fall for, and while the heroine obviously wasn’t the woman he would have imagined he’d loved, he didn’t have any hesitations to admit to himself and to the heroine that he ended up actually developing feelings for her. Admittedly, he had his flaws which would probably make any other reader run the other way. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t end up liking him. Actually, he piqued my interest from the very beginning because I have never read a book where the hero is a bow street runner. (not my type of hero!) but nevertheless, I have no regrets in entering this another world Lisa Kleypas created. He could be downright mean to the heroine and yet he was redempted in my eyes because whatever his prejudices were against her, he cared for her and was always there when she needed him. May it be from nightmares or getting killed by a man. So, while Grant isn’t perfect, and modern feminists would probably hate him, he isn’t totally bad either. I read historical romances and I fully expect to encounter these types of heroes especially in older books. I am more open to this type of stuff I guess. Not every hero could be a charming prince.
I would admit that this book would be what many people consider a little problematic. But it was enjoyable nonetheless. I literally read this book in one sitting! I usually read slower because I try to savor the story. But with this book, I was just hooked and couldn’t help but turn the pages very eagerly without highlighting too many paragraphs. I liked the added mystery of who Vivien’s killer was, although I will say that I had a hunch from the moment he appeared in the book. It was good how the story didn’t revolve around trying to solve who the killer was because that would’ve bored me and I would have abandoned the book. Also, I liked the twist even when I already knew the truth. Aside from amnesia, I think I sometimes enjoy mistaken identity too because when the character finally realizes their mistake, their emotion is priceless.
Like I’ve said, the hero could be an ass but he did try to make amends by apologizing to Vivien even when he really didn’t want to. It showcased how he cared for the heroine and was willing to do anything if it pleased her. He was protective, loving and caring towards the heroine which are some of the reasons why I couldn’t help but like him as well. While the last chapters could be potentially frustrating, I think it makes sense that the heroine would feel insecure and doubt Grant’s feelings considering the events that happened. I loved how while the sisters weren’t the best of friends, and were very different people, at the end they had each other’s backs.
I can’t recall a moment in the book that bored me so that is a good thing. Since the heroine had no choice but to be under Grant’s roof (not that he was holding her captive) it might seem problematic to some that she’d fall in love with him but I think the feelings between them are believable. While it wasn’t a very swoon-worthy, sigh-inducing, wishing for a love like this romance, it was a good book with a hero who did questionable things but was able to be redeemed and a heroine who was the perfect match for the hero.
I loved the added characters such as the servants although I think they were a bit too nice to a “fallen” woman. But I believe there are good people out there so it isn’t totally unbelievable. I honestly don’t have any complaints. I think the pacing was good and the events that happened were interesting enough. The characters were likeable in their own right. I think the perfect word to describe this book is “riveting”, at least to me. I liked the epilogue. Although it wasn’t set too far in the future, I still enjoyed it and loved the fact they were now a Sir Grant and Lady Morgan!
This book is a solid four stars read. It was well-written and kept me totally interested. Not one moment bored me and to me that is a sign of a good book. I rate books five stars when they manage to make me very emotional (such as shed a few tears), and while this book didn’t manage to achieve that, it was still a good read and proves that Lisa Kleypas is and will always be a good writer. I think it is also important to say that the Kleypas books I rate four stars would be translated to a five stars book if it were written by another author. I hope that makes sense. I sing this author’s praises freely, but I just really like her writing and also the fact that she writes self-made men so well and I am always a whore for them.
Some Quotes:
“Seeming not to understand his silent, ferocious struggle, Vivien gave him a hesitant smile of welcome. He almost hated her for that smile, so soft and warm that it pulled at something deep in his chest.”
“For now, he was going to ignore all the contradictions about Vivien and allow himself to simply enjoy being with her. A beautiful woman, a fire on the hearth, a roomful of books, and a bottle of wine…It might not have been every man’s idea of heaven, but God knew it was his.”
“And what is she like?” “Intelligent…sweet…gentle. Most men’s fantasy.” “And yours?” Cannon murmured. Grant gripped the arms of his chair as if he were manacled to it. “And mine,” he finally admitted gruffly.
“I thought I would die here. I thought…his face would be the last thing I saw in this lifetime.”“My face is the last one you’ll see in this lifetime,” he said gruffly.
“I was never receptive to their advances,” Victoria said, settling herself more comfortably on his lap. “I was always absorbed in taking care of Father, and reading books, and…” Tenderly she laid her head on his shoulder. “I suppose I was waiting for you,” she said, and felt his arms tighten until he nearly crushed her.
Grant Morgan is a bow street runner who has a celebrity reputation. During one of his investigations, he was stunned to find that the woman who nearly drowned in the Thames was Vivien Rose Duvall, London’s most celebrated courtesan. Grant is even more surprised to discover that she has no idea of who she is and has no memories of the past. Remembering that Vivien once spread rumors about him, he saw this as an opportunity to get back at her. He would care for the lady under his roof, all the while investigating who wanted her dead. And while Vivien is sure that she isn’t a courtesan, she has no choice but to put her trust in the stranger who claims she is his mistress. When the truth comes out, will Vivien be able to put her faith in the man who took advantage of the trust she wholeheartedly gave him the first time? Is Vivien truly the lady Grant believed her to be?
Someone to watch over me is the first book from Lisa Kleypas’ historical romance series, Bow Street Runners. This tells the story of Grant Morgan and V Duvall. This one is an earlier work of Kleypas. I had my reservations about this and initially didn’t want to read it but I am very into the amnesia trope so I thought I’d give this book a chance and I am glad I did! Kleypas is such a dependable writer and whenever I am looking for a book that I know would be good, I go back to all of her works and search for something that would catch my interest.
I loved the heroine. I think I almost always love the heroines this author creates. I realized it is because they’re the perfect mix of gentleness without being a doormat. They are ready to be cared for by their hero but they also have a backbone when challenged. They aren’t stupid and yet they aren’t an annoying know-it-all. According to the hero and all of London society, she is a courtesan but the heroine feels strongly that she isn’t because even though she doesn’t remember anything, it just doesn’t feel right. I actually already know the twist because I’ve read spoilers! So if you still haven’t read this, I suggest you stop reading my review altogether because I don’t like putting spoiler reviews. I like having it out in the open! When the hero first met her, she was this vain, manipulative, mercenary woman which was why when Vivien acted differently, he was very confused. I feel like it is important for me to point out that I don’t agree with the hero’s views towards Vivien, I think courtesans did what they had to do in order to survive especially during their era. I will always admire women who know how to use people and what they have (does that sound bad?) in order to survive in life. But of course, who I loved better was this new woman who loved books, cared for Grant, was gentle, humble, and wasn't afraid to lift a finger and do simple tasks because she didn’t want to be a burden. She was also admirable because when challenged, she wasn’t one to back down! She is not idiotic and I loved that because I thought she’d be one of those heroines who would put themselves in danger because they didn’t know any better. This woman was accident prone but not because she was stupid, rather, bad people were just out to get her.
Grant Morgan wasn’t a hero to swoon over. He is this very alpha man which would let the reader know that this book was written decades ago. He wasn’t always nice. In fact, he was a hateful man. While he doesn’t resent the heroine for the rumors she spread about him, he feels very strongly that she should have what he deemed as “comeuppance” because apparently she used men. Which I disagree with, it is those men who used Vivien and preyed on her because how else would a courtesan be successful if it weren’t for perverted men? He knows that the heroine is a courtesan, and even this knowledge didn’t stop the hero from forming an attachment to the heroine. Sometimes, you just can’t choose who you fall for, and while the heroine obviously wasn’t the woman he would have imagined he’d loved, he didn’t have any hesitations to admit to himself and to the heroine that he ended up actually developing feelings for her. Admittedly, he had his flaws which would probably make any other reader run the other way. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t end up liking him. Actually, he piqued my interest from the very beginning because I have never read a book where the hero is a bow street runner. (not my type of hero!) but nevertheless, I have no regrets in entering this another world Lisa Kleypas created. He could be downright mean to the heroine and yet he was redempted in my eyes because whatever his prejudices were against her, he cared for her and was always there when she needed him. May it be from nightmares or getting killed by a man. So, while Grant isn’t perfect, and modern feminists would probably hate him, he isn’t totally bad either. I read historical romances and I fully expect to encounter these types of heroes especially in older books. I am more open to this type of stuff I guess. Not every hero could be a charming prince.
I would admit that this book would be what many people consider a little problematic. But it was enjoyable nonetheless. I literally read this book in one sitting! I usually read slower because I try to savor the story. But with this book, I was just hooked and couldn’t help but turn the pages very eagerly without highlighting too many paragraphs. I liked the added mystery of who Vivien’s killer was, although I will say that I had a hunch from the moment he appeared in the book. It was good how the story didn’t revolve around trying to solve who the killer was because that would’ve bored me and I would have abandoned the book. Also, I liked the twist even when I already knew the truth. Aside from amnesia, I think I sometimes enjoy mistaken identity too because when the character finally realizes their mistake, their emotion is priceless.
Like I’ve said, the hero could be an ass but he did try to make amends by apologizing to Vivien even when he really didn’t want to. It showcased how he cared for the heroine and was willing to do anything if it pleased her. He was protective, loving and caring towards the heroine which are some of the reasons why I couldn’t help but like him as well. While the last chapters could be potentially frustrating, I think it makes sense that the heroine would feel insecure and doubt Grant’s feelings considering the events that happened. I loved how while the sisters weren’t the best of friends, and were very different people, at the end they had each other’s backs.
I can’t recall a moment in the book that bored me so that is a good thing. Since the heroine had no choice but to be under Grant’s roof (not that he was holding her captive) it might seem problematic to some that she’d fall in love with him but I think the feelings between them are believable. While it wasn’t a very swoon-worthy, sigh-inducing, wishing for a love like this romance, it was a good book with a hero who did questionable things but was able to be redeemed and a heroine who was the perfect match for the hero.
I loved the added characters such as the servants although I think they were a bit too nice to a “fallen” woman. But I believe there are good people out there so it isn’t totally unbelievable. I honestly don’t have any complaints. I think the pacing was good and the events that happened were interesting enough. The characters were likeable in their own right. I think the perfect word to describe this book is “riveting”, at least to me. I liked the epilogue. Although it wasn’t set too far in the future, I still enjoyed it and loved the fact they were now a Sir Grant and Lady Morgan!
This book is a solid four stars read. It was well-written and kept me totally interested. Not one moment bored me and to me that is a sign of a good book. I rate books five stars when they manage to make me very emotional (such as shed a few tears), and while this book didn’t manage to achieve that, it was still a good read and proves that Lisa Kleypas is and will always be a good writer. I think it is also important to say that the Kleypas books I rate four stars would be translated to a five stars book if it were written by another author. I hope that makes sense. I sing this author’s praises freely, but I just really like her writing and also the fact that she writes self-made men so well and I am always a whore for them.
Some Quotes:
“Seeming not to understand his silent, ferocious struggle, Vivien gave him a hesitant smile of welcome. He almost hated her for that smile, so soft and warm that it pulled at something deep in his chest.”
“For now, he was going to ignore all the contradictions about Vivien and allow himself to simply enjoy being with her. A beautiful woman, a fire on the hearth, a roomful of books, and a bottle of wine…It might not have been every man’s idea of heaven, but God knew it was his.”
“And what is she like?” “Intelligent…sweet…gentle. Most men’s fantasy.” “And yours?” Cannon murmured. Grant gripped the arms of his chair as if he were manacled to it. “And mine,” he finally admitted gruffly.
“I thought I would die here. I thought…his face would be the last thing I saw in this lifetime.”“My face is the last one you’ll see in this lifetime,” he said gruffly.
“I was never receptive to their advances,” Victoria said, settling herself more comfortably on his lap. “I was always absorbed in taking care of Father, and reading books, and…” Tenderly she laid her head on his shoulder. “I suppose I was waiting for you,” she said, and felt his arms tighten until he nearly crushed her.
March 1, 2018
Kleypas writes well enough, but I'm a little confused as to when the story was supposed to have taken place, and I think that's mainly because she writes little about the historical context, though there is a lot of physical descriptive detail. Here there was more even than in her other books, but it served no purpose, and certainly did not make it any clearer exactly what period in English history I am imagining. And though I am no expert on the Bow Street Runners I find it difficult to believe that it was possible for those men to question and even threaten a peer, as our hero at one point does.
The biggest problem in this book, and the reason I didn't finish it: the hero, who must be (though I haven't read all of Kleypas's books) one of her most unlikeable ones. As I started reading, I disliked both the hero and the heroine. Then it became obvious that the heroine was not who she was supposed to be and she became quite likeable, except that she fell for the hero who was a- well- a douchenozzle for lack of a better expression.
**Spoilers**
Seriously, the hero tricks the heroine into believing that she was his mistress to revenge himself upon her because she once made it look or sound as though she had rejected him. Now, assuming that everything is as he *thinks* it is (he doesn't know the heroine is not her slutty twin sister), then according to him appropriate revenge for some slight rumour that wounded his manly pride is tricking an amnesiac woman (who had suffered a heinous attack on her person by a murderer and barely survived and is entirely in his power and at his mercy) into sex with him. Yeah - not so much. Apparently, according to the man we are to root for here, if a girl makes a living by prostitution then it's no longer rape if one tricks her into sex?! Well, it is, and it's not ok. Even when he finally beds the girl his remorse comes from the fact that she was a virgin. I understand that at the time the way women were perceived hinged a lot on whether they were pure or not, and virginity was a huge deal, totally get that, but the courtesan was a professional who charged money for her services, and he knew that. He wanted to trick her into giving away for free and against her will (at the very least in an extremely confused state of mind) the service by which she earned her living. On every possible plane this is not ok.
But his being an a-hole starts even sooner than that, because not only is his desire to revenge himself on her a complete overreaction, but he judges her totally and completely, her entire character and being, on the basis of one, very short conversation. And I mean, he presumes to know *everything* about her on the basis of that. He takes it upon himself to humble and humiliate her, because he thinks she needs it, after ONE CONVERSATION! 50% into the book I still know nothing about the real Vivien's actual character, and neither do our hero and heroine, but that does not stop them from judging the woman, and hating on her. So much so, that when Grant actually gets to know the girl he rejects that she could possibly really be nice, and assumes she is putting on an act. Because HE KNOWS HER SO WELL!
The relationship between the hero and the heroine is rather hard to believe as it develops. He is unsympathetic, cruel and abusive, and she doesn't know her own name, so of course this can only go good places...
After a while this reads like a kidnapping victim developing Stockholm Syndrome for her captor. Here's a choice quote:
"You're not getting away from me, you know," he said softly.
Vivien suppressed a rueful laugh, somehow both moved and alarmed by the realization that he was determined to win her.
There are also several times where they have almost sex, where he seems to think that she has a choice to pull away but the author does not indicate in any description of what is happening that she does in fact have that choice. The only thing we know is that she said "no" and that he continues to "seduce" her anyway. And even if he does not *force* her into sex: he keeps her in his house, she knows that outside of it is a man who wants to kill her, so she can't leave, and he told her that he she is basically his sex employee. Rather sounds to me like the man is taking major advantage of a disabled house guest and abusing his authority as a Runner, as her host and as her acquaintance.
This is the sort of loveable stuff our hero says:
"Just like a woman" he murmured. "You only give a fellow affection when you want something."
Yeah, Grant, women are so manipulative, aren't they?
I tried to like it and I tried wait for him to redeem himself, I really did, because Kleypas is usually such a solid read, but this book was not for me.
The biggest problem in this book, and the reason I didn't finish it: the hero, who must be (though I haven't read all of Kleypas's books) one of her most unlikeable ones. As I started reading, I disliked both the hero and the heroine. Then it became obvious that the heroine was not who she was supposed to be and she became quite likeable, except that she fell for the hero who was a- well- a douchenozzle for lack of a better expression.
**Spoilers**
Seriously, the hero tricks the heroine into believing that she was his mistress to revenge himself upon her because she once made it look or sound as though she had rejected him. Now, assuming that everything is as he *thinks* it is (he doesn't know the heroine is not her slutty twin sister), then according to him appropriate revenge for some slight rumour that wounded his manly pride is tricking an amnesiac woman (who had suffered a heinous attack on her person by a murderer and barely survived and is entirely in his power and at his mercy) into sex with him. Yeah - not so much. Apparently, according to the man we are to root for here, if a girl makes a living by prostitution then it's no longer rape if one tricks her into sex?! Well, it is, and it's not ok. Even when he finally beds the girl his remorse comes from the fact that she was a virgin. I understand that at the time the way women were perceived hinged a lot on whether they were pure or not, and virginity was a huge deal, totally get that, but the courtesan was a professional who charged money for her services, and he knew that. He wanted to trick her into giving away for free and against her will (at the very least in an extremely confused state of mind) the service by which she earned her living. On every possible plane this is not ok.
But his being an a-hole starts even sooner than that, because not only is his desire to revenge himself on her a complete overreaction, but he judges her totally and completely, her entire character and being, on the basis of one, very short conversation. And I mean, he presumes to know *everything* about her on the basis of that. He takes it upon himself to humble and humiliate her, because he thinks she needs it, after ONE CONVERSATION! 50% into the book I still know nothing about the real Vivien's actual character, and neither do our hero and heroine, but that does not stop them from judging the woman, and hating on her. So much so, that when Grant actually gets to know the girl he rejects that she could possibly really be nice, and assumes she is putting on an act. Because HE KNOWS HER SO WELL!
The relationship between the hero and the heroine is rather hard to believe as it develops. He is unsympathetic, cruel and abusive, and she doesn't know her own name, so of course this can only go good places...
After a while this reads like a kidnapping victim developing Stockholm Syndrome for her captor. Here's a choice quote:
"You're not getting away from me, you know," he said softly.
Vivien suppressed a rueful laugh, somehow both moved and alarmed by the realization that he was determined to win her.
There are also several times where they have almost sex, where he seems to think that she has a choice to pull away but the author does not indicate in any description of what is happening that she does in fact have that choice. The only thing we know is that she said "no" and that he continues to "seduce" her anyway. And even if he does not *force* her into sex: he keeps her in his house, she knows that outside of it is a man who wants to kill her, so she can't leave, and he told her that he she is basically his sex employee. Rather sounds to me like the man is taking major advantage of a disabled house guest and abusing his authority as a Runner, as her host and as her acquaintance.
This is the sort of loveable stuff our hero says:
"Just like a woman" he murmured. "You only give a fellow affection when you want something."
Yeah, Grant, women are so manipulative, aren't they?
I tried to like it and I tried wait for him to redeem himself, I really did, because Kleypas is usually such a solid read, but this book was not for me.
May 16, 2011
3.5/5
I’ve been indulging myself in Lisa Kleypas’ books for the past few weeks and have come to appreciate her story telling talents. Perhaps because this is the first book in the Bow Street Runners series, it didn’t grab me quite the way her Wallflower series did. I didn’t find the characters quite as charismatic as those in her other books.
It has an interesting plot – a courtesan with amnesia being pursued by someone who is trying to kill her and the man who saved her life and is now protecting her, bent on revenge for some wrong she did him in the past. There was definitely a lot to keep the pace of the story moving quickly which is a plus because it can be tough to lay the ground work for a new series and still keep the reader’s attention. There were only a couple of instances when I wanted to skip through some of the foundation details and get back down to the nitty-gritty of the story.
Someone To Watch Over Me is a story filled with likable characters, though (with the exception of Sir Ross – but that’s another story) I didn’t feel a connection or attachment to any of them. Honestly it wasn’t until the very end of the book that I had my first “Awwww, how sweet” *sigh* moment. It occurred when Grant showed up unexpectedly at White Rose Cottage, surprising Victoria:
“What are you doing here?”
“You took too long,” he muttered with a scowl.
That statement brought a surprised laugh from her. “We agreed I would stay here a week.”
“It’s been a week.”
“It’s been precisely two and a half days,” she informed him.
“It seemed like a bloody year.”
They exchange a few more words then he asks, “And our engagement,” he asked with a set face. “Do you have an answer for me?”
I loved those few sentences more than any others in the entire book because it gave me a real glimpse into him – an overgrown boy used to getting his own way and not sure what he would do if he didn’t. I could really see that frown/scowl on his face as he nervously (though he masked it well) awaited her answer. I wish we had been given more candid peeks into the man who is Grant Morgan. I didn’t find him exceptionally charming but the sexual tension in this book was amazing. Their intimate encounters had me *fanning myself* and checking to make sure no one was reading over my shoulder and what Grant Morgan lacked in charisma, he more than made up for in heat. He is one sensual, sexual man.
October 6, 2022
If he’s not throwing his book* across the room before he undresses me then I don’t want him
*must be the book he was laying on his bed naked reposed like a scholarly Greek god reading
*must be the book he was laying on his bed naked reposed like a scholarly Greek god reading
March 21, 2017
OK, the "big twist" was obvious as was the "bad guy". Maybe I have read too many Romantic Suspense books over the years that I can pick up on these things! I loved Grant, a commoner, vowed never to wed ... but he is attracted to the lovely Vivien.
I am really interested in the next book. Sir Ross Cannon sounds like an intriguing character.
I am really interested in the next book. Sir Ross Cannon sounds like an intriguing character.
“His lips pressed against her forehead and she felt him smile against her skin. "Believe me...the only place in the world I want to be is wherever you are."
November 10, 2014
3.5 Stars
Not an all time favorite by this author, but that ending...RIGHT IN THE FEELS!!
I wasn't sure I'd like a story about a famous London hooker. I'm not one to be very forgiving of overly promiscuous leads, especially females. Those midwestern roots of mine are showing!! But this heroine won me over very quickly. She was a nice little mystery to unveil. The hero wasn't as charismatic as Kleypas' other men, so maybe that's why the story didn't grab me as much.
Still, a nice HR with a great message...one thing I've noticed about LK is that she is one of the most non-judgemental author out there. She creates some secondary characters that are not imminently likeable, and yet her heroes and heroines are supremely tolerant of their sins and oddities. I like the books all the more for it.
Not an all time favorite by this author, but that ending...RIGHT IN THE FEELS!!
I wasn't sure I'd like a story about a famous London hooker. I'm not one to be very forgiving of overly promiscuous leads, especially females. Those midwestern roots of mine are showing!! But this heroine won me over very quickly. She was a nice little mystery to unveil. The hero wasn't as charismatic as Kleypas' other men, so maybe that's why the story didn't grab me as much.
Still, a nice HR with a great message...one thing I've noticed about LK is that she is one of the most non-judgemental author out there. She creates some secondary characters that are not imminently likeable, and yet her heroes and heroines are supremely tolerant of their sins and oddities. I like the books all the more for it.
May 26, 2017
This is my first historical romance book by Lisa Kleypas. I found a certain ease about her writing and I have to say I rather enjoyed it.
Even though Grant was a bit of a brut sometimes I found him to be charming. And Vivien was sweet and kind. A perfect match for him. It had an interesting plot and I loved the ending!!
I'm certainly looking forward to reading more of her historical romance books.
Even though Grant was a bit of a brut sometimes I found him to be charming. And Vivien was sweet and kind. A perfect match for him. It had an interesting plot and I loved the ending!!
I'm certainly looking forward to reading more of her historical romance books.
May 2, 2016
Warning: angry ranting ahead! I'm pretty sure this is my first 1-star HR...I considered giving it 2, but I just can't do it.
So...this book has the worst male lead I have come across in almost a year of reading HR. Grant Morgan sucks. He is a Bow Street Runner who is brought to the banks of the Thames where a presumably dead woman has been fished out of the water. Turns out, she's not dead, and as she gasps for breath, Grant realizes he knows her. She's a high-brow courtesan named Vivian Duvall that he was interested in "obtaining" once at a party. We find out that their meeting didn't go well- he was attracted to her, but he didn't like her haughtiness, and nothing ended up happening. After that, she told everyone that she'd turned him down, which cheesed him off.
He takes the almost-drowned and strangled Vivien (who has amnesia!) back to his home, where he takes care of her....because he's planning on sleeping with her and spurning her once she recovers.
WHAT?!!
Oh yes- He can't stand the idea that she's a courtesan, and we repeatedly hear how horrible that makes her, but he wants her anyway. Double standards for days.
It gets "better"...
Vivien turns out to be sweet and kind and not at all what he was expecting. She's repulsed by what she's told about herself (because for a woman to enjoy sex she must be a wretched harlot), and Grant is too, but he just can't stop thinking about her.
So he flat-out lies to a woman with amnesia, telling her that they'd had a relationship prior to her near-drowning, and this makes her wonder if she should just go ahead and sleep with him since to her knowledge, she has before.
So they eventually do. And surprise!
She eventually somehow ascertains that Grant has lied to her....and she forgives him in like 3 seconds. In fact, they almost immediately love each other. WHAT?! If I had amnesia, and I found out the person who was caring for me had blatantly lied to me in such a twisted, manipulative way, I would not be cool with that. Creeptastic, much?
Other crap happens, and Grant continues to be a misogynistic asshat. He pulls the whole "don't touch me, b/c I can't control what happens when I get aroused" bull shit multiple times, and calls Vivien an imbecile at one point (lovingly, of course). He's got a nasty temper, he's a grouch, and he pressures Vivien at different times after she says "no". (He kisses her forcefully after she tells him "no" and then when she doesn't stop him, says, "Now tell me what kind of woman you are.") We are told repeatedly that he's a great guy, but I don't see any evidence to support this. He even gets frustrated with her when she wants a week to herself toward the end of the book and can't give her more than 2 1/2 days. Why she "loves" him, I can't even fathom. He's awful.
Choice quotes?
"Vivien was prime quality goods to be sure, but she was a whore nonetheless. And he was a fool for feeling protective of her, wanting her, and worst of all, liking her."
"He was going to use her, the way she had used so many men. It was time for Vivien Duvall to receive her reckoning."
"I'm going to keep you here..for your protection and my convenience."
Yeah, great guy, huh? Gack.
You know what really burns my biscuit? LK's writing is good. (Not the plot here, but the writing itself.) "Vivien" is sweet and likeable, despite her lack of backbone and questionable choice in men. I really liked the idea, and there is good suspense and action about 3/4 of the way through. Also, Even a Bow Street cat and a huge library couldn't help. This could have been really good. SMH
So yeah- I am kind of surprised I made it through this. I just can't handle double standards and slut shaming for days. I've read plenty of HR's where despite the historical attitudes at the time, authors got creative about making love scenes happen without relying on blatant misogyny. I expect better.
So...this book has the worst male lead I have come across in almost a year of reading HR. Grant Morgan sucks. He is a Bow Street Runner who is brought to the banks of the Thames where a presumably dead woman has been fished out of the water. Turns out, she's not dead, and as she gasps for breath, Grant realizes he knows her. She's a high-brow courtesan named Vivian Duvall that he was interested in "obtaining" once at a party. We find out that their meeting didn't go well- he was attracted to her, but he didn't like her haughtiness, and nothing ended up happening. After that, she told everyone that she'd turned him down, which cheesed him off.
He takes the almost-drowned and strangled Vivien (who has amnesia!) back to his home, where he takes care of her....because he's planning on sleeping with her and spurning her once she recovers.
WHAT?!!
Oh yes- He can't stand the idea that she's a courtesan, and we repeatedly hear how horrible that makes her, but he wants her anyway. Double standards for days.
It gets "better"...
Vivien turns out to be sweet and kind and not at all what he was expecting. She's repulsed by what she's told about herself (because for a woman to enjoy sex she must be a wretched harlot), and Grant is too, but he just can't stop thinking about her.
So he flat-out lies to a woman with amnesia, telling her that they'd had a relationship prior to her near-drowning, and this makes her wonder if she should just go ahead and sleep with him since to her knowledge, she has before.
So they eventually do. And surprise!
She eventually somehow ascertains that Grant has lied to her....and she forgives him in like 3 seconds. In fact, they almost immediately love each other. WHAT?! If I had amnesia, and I found out the person who was caring for me had blatantly lied to me in such a twisted, manipulative way, I would not be cool with that. Creeptastic, much?
Other crap happens, and Grant continues to be a misogynistic asshat. He pulls the whole "don't touch me, b/c I can't control what happens when I get aroused" bull shit multiple times, and calls Vivien an imbecile at one point (lovingly, of course). He's got a nasty temper, he's a grouch, and he pressures Vivien at different times after she says "no". (He kisses her forcefully after she tells him "no" and then when she doesn't stop him, says, "Now tell me what kind of woman you are.") We are told repeatedly that he's a great guy, but I don't see any evidence to support this. He even gets frustrated with her when she wants a week to herself toward the end of the book and can't give her more than 2 1/2 days. Why she "loves" him, I can't even fathom. He's awful.
Choice quotes?
"Vivien was prime quality goods to be sure, but she was a whore nonetheless. And he was a fool for feeling protective of her, wanting her, and worst of all, liking her."
"He was going to use her, the way she had used so many men. It was time for Vivien Duvall to receive her reckoning."
"I'm going to keep you here..for your protection and my convenience."
Yeah, great guy, huh? Gack.
You know what really burns my biscuit? LK's writing is good. (Not the plot here, but the writing itself.) "Vivien" is sweet and likeable, despite her lack of backbone and questionable choice in men. I really liked the idea, and there is good suspense and action about 3/4 of the way through. Also, Even a Bow Street cat and a huge library couldn't help. This could have been really good. SMH
So yeah- I am kind of surprised I made it through this. I just can't handle double standards and slut shaming for days. I've read plenty of HR's where despite the historical attitudes at the time, authors got creative about making love scenes happen without relying on blatant misogyny. I expect better.
January 18, 2023
Definitely not my favorite Kleypas but not my least favorite either.
Will be in my next vlog
Will be in my next vlog
June 2, 2017
Estoy rogando a Dios que este sea uno de los primeros libros de la Kleypas pues a mí no me la ha recordado en NADA.
Me pareció soso, aburrido y sin el sello característico de la autora. A los personajes les faltaba alma y la historia deja mucho que desear.
El intento de intriga/suspenso fue solo eso... un intento.
No sé, amo a la Kleypas pero sus libros (los que he leído últimamente) me están dejando más bien fría y con grandes sentimientos de decepción.
Por cierto... la traducción? LAMENTABLE. Me repitieron un párrafo completo, Cambiaban palabras por otras y con demás errores. Uffff... Quería reclamar en Amazon pero me dicen que ya la editorial está enterada y les vale... que se puede hacer en esas circunstancias?
Solo espero que el próximo St Vicent esté a la altura del padre, que aunque sé que es muy probable que no me guste no puedo evitar las expectativas... ay dios! ¡Si hasta cuanto los días para que salga! 😖😖😖🤷🏻♀️
Me pareció soso, aburrido y sin el sello característico de la autora. A los personajes les faltaba alma y la historia deja mucho que desear.
El intento de intriga/suspenso fue solo eso... un intento.
No sé, amo a la Kleypas pero sus libros (los que he leído últimamente) me están dejando más bien fría y con grandes sentimientos de decepción.
Por cierto... la traducción? LAMENTABLE. Me repitieron un párrafo completo, Cambiaban palabras por otras y con demás errores. Uffff... Quería reclamar en Amazon pero me dicen que ya la editorial está enterada y les vale... que se puede hacer en esas circunstancias?
Solo espero que el próximo St Vicent esté a la altura del padre, que aunque sé que es muy probable que no me guste no puedo evitar las expectativas... ay dios! ¡Si hasta cuanto los días para que salga! 😖😖😖🤷🏻♀️
March 20, 2019
I thought the big reveal was a cop out. It was really hard to see Grant as this dreamy guy when he said, felt, and did some really awful things, but it was ok because...
Yeah, not a fan of this particular storyline at all.
Yeah, not a fan of this particular storyline at all.
March 20, 2019
Una delicia de lectura!!!!
❤❤❤❤❤
Lo he disfrutado muchísimo y se me ha hecho hasta corto. Es una historia muy bonita y entretenida.
Me encanta como escribe Lisa!!
Ahora a por el segundo libro de esta serie y con este empiezo el reto intimo de este año.
❤❤❤❤❤
Lo he disfrutado muchísimo y se me ha hecho hasta corto. Es una historia muy bonita y entretenida.
Me encanta como escribe Lisa!!
Ahora a por el segundo libro de esta serie y con este empiezo el reto intimo de este año.
January 16, 2019
I've been in a reading funk with a medeocre dragon series.
Thank Goodness for Lisa Kleypas coming to the rescue!!
Vivian Duvall
Vivian is the most sought after courtesan. How unfortunate that she and Grant don't get along.
What an Amazing twist and a wonderful love story!!
Thank Goodness for Lisa Kleypas coming to the rescue!!
Vivian Duvall
Vivian is the most sought after courtesan. How unfortunate that she and Grant don't get along.
What an Amazing twist and a wonderful love story!!
February 6, 2025
Not her best but good enough to finish
I don't know if this book has been modified from the original publishing. I listened to the audiobook and I know she's been tampering with her stories, so if there are any inconsistencies with what you know, that might be where it comes from.
࿔*:･ The plot
The heroine was discovered half drowned and with a blow to her head. The hero takes her to his home and cares for her.
The heroine has amnesia and it becomes a conflict for the hero who has a history of bad blood with the heroine.
I liked the pace. The romance was not neglected and the investigation is not too prominent but also isn't completely forgotten.
The writing is engaging as always.
࿔*:･ The hero
My biggest issues with the book is the hero. This was first published in 1998 and while eventually the hero is shamed for slut-shaming, by the end he remains, in essence, unchanged.
There's also his attitude towards a woman so completely at his mercy. The seduction/revenge plan for the slight he was given is distasteful. This is a regular hero, I shouldn't be wondering 'is this SA?'
He's not all bad. The author does a good job of explaining his jaded, cold-hearted view of the world. Class and his position in society are all jumbled for him because he's sort of a celebrity detective and gets invited to all the parties, but is still held as 'other'. Combined that with the tragedies of childhood and I understand some of it.
Just not all of it.
࿔*:･ The heroine
The heroine is very passive and meek throughout the whole book. Extreme virginal reactions to everything. 'She's a courtesan that's done a bunch of dirty sex, yet look how innocent and sweet she is now. This is the Vivian I could fall in love with' was an uncomfortable message at best, too slut-shaming at worst.
I did like her actions to protect herself at the end. I did not see that coming.
࿔*:･ Final thoughts
Meh. I think this is a product of its time and while it's not unreadable (or un-listen-able?), the underlying message is so very unoriginal (virgin good, whore bad).
The romance, the pace and the overall plot was interesting and engaging in a way only a great author like Kleypas could pull off, but I don't know if I would've read it if I was more aware of the content.
╭── ⋅ ⋅ ──────────────── ⋅ ⋅ ──╮
. .┊𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆
. .┊➛ 𝑺𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒓𝒆: 54
. .┊➛ 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆: Pick a choice from Best of GR Romances list: 1996-1999
. .┊➛ 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔: 30/100
╰── ⋅ ⋅ ──────────────── ⋅ ⋅ ──╯
I don't know if this book has been modified from the original publishing. I listened to the audiobook and I know she's been tampering with her stories, so if there are any inconsistencies with what you know, that might be where it comes from.
࿔*:･ The plot
The heroine was discovered half drowned and with a blow to her head. The hero takes her to his home and cares for her.
The heroine has amnesia and it becomes a conflict for the hero who has a history of bad blood with the heroine.
I liked the pace. The romance was not neglected and the investigation is not too prominent but also isn't completely forgotten.
The writing is engaging as always.
࿔*:･ The hero
My biggest issues with the book is the hero. This was first published in 1998 and while eventually the hero is shamed for slut-shaming, by the end he remains, in essence, unchanged.
There's also his attitude towards a woman so completely at his mercy. The seduction/revenge plan for the slight he was given is distasteful. This is a regular hero, I shouldn't be wondering 'is this SA?'
He's not all bad. The author does a good job of explaining his jaded, cold-hearted view of the world. Class and his position in society are all jumbled for him because he's sort of a celebrity detective and gets invited to all the parties, but is still held as 'other'. Combined that with the tragedies of childhood and I understand some of it.
Just not all of it.
࿔*:･ The heroine
The heroine is very passive and meek throughout the whole book. Extreme virginal reactions to everything. 'She's a courtesan that's done a bunch of dirty sex, yet look how innocent and sweet she is now. This is the Vivian I could fall in love with' was an uncomfortable message at best, too slut-shaming at worst.
I did like her actions to protect herself at the end. I did not see that coming.
࿔*:･ Final thoughts
Meh. I think this is a product of its time and while it's not unreadable (or un-listen-able?), the underlying message is so very unoriginal (virgin good, whore bad).
The romance, the pace and the overall plot was interesting and engaging in a way only a great author like Kleypas could pull off, but I don't know if I would've read it if I was more aware of the content.
╭── ⋅ ⋅ ──────────────── ⋅ ⋅ ──╮
. .┊𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆
. .┊➛ 𝑺𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒓𝒆: 54
. .┊➛ 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆: Pick a choice from Best of GR Romances list: 1996-1999
. .┊➛ 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔: 30/100
╰── ⋅ ⋅ ──────────────── ⋅ ⋅ ──╯
November 12, 2013
Ugh. Just--ugh.
The plot itself wasn't bad--Bow Street Runner misidentifies a woman pulled out of the Thames as a well-known courtesan and proceeds down a super asshole path to Teach Her a Lesson until he finds himself In Love©.
It was all suitably overwrought and full of hijinks and what-have-you.
EXCEPT FOR THE GROSS INNOCENCE FETISH!! AND THE SHAMING OF COURTESANS!! AND THE UNNECESSARY VILLIANIZATION OF VIVIAN!!
True story: having sex is not a sin. Having sex with more than one person is not a sin. One at a time, or all at once even!
Basically I am not a fan of this idea that heroines should only get lady-boners for their heroes. WHATEVER, OKAY. LADY-BONERS FOR EVERYONE.
Also: what is this reliance on metaphors that liken the heroines to children? "She seemed no bigger than a child"; "She produced a[n ...] expression like a child"; "[he] tucked her in bed as a parent would a beloved child"; "[...] rocking her as if she were a child".
NO: STOP IT. HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO FIND THEIR BONERS FOR ONE ANOTHER ATTRACTIVE WHEN YOU KEEP REDUCING ONE OF THEM LIKE THAT?
In fact, the only person who doesn't get the child metaphors applied to them is the hero, which is just really gross overall.
The plot itself wasn't bad--Bow Street Runner misidentifies a woman pulled out of the Thames as a well-known courtesan and proceeds down a super asshole path to Teach Her a Lesson until he finds himself In Love©.
It was all suitably overwrought and full of hijinks and what-have-you.
EXCEPT FOR THE GROSS INNOCENCE FETISH!! AND THE SHAMING OF COURTESANS!! AND THE UNNECESSARY VILLIANIZATION OF VIVIAN!!
True story: having sex is not a sin. Having sex with more than one person is not a sin. One at a time, or all at once even!
Basically I am not a fan of this idea that heroines should only get lady-boners for their heroes. WHATEVER, OKAY. LADY-BONERS FOR EVERYONE.
Also: what is this reliance on metaphors that liken the heroines to children? "She seemed no bigger than a child"; "She produced a[n ...] expression like a child"; "[he] tucked her in bed as a parent would a beloved child"; "[...] rocking her as if she were a child".
NO: STOP IT. HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO FIND THEIR BONERS FOR ONE ANOTHER ATTRACTIVE WHEN YOU KEEP REDUCING ONE OF THEM LIKE THAT?
In fact, the only person who doesn't get the child metaphors applied to them is the hero, which is just really gross overall.
November 19, 2021
From the streets to the sheets: MOODY, MESMERIZING, SEXY, BRILLIANT slow burn
My first audiobook and it was absolutely amazing. I love detectives, investigations, mystery, intrigue, suspense and historical romance...This book had it ALL. A bit darker than other Lisa Kleypas books, and that made it all the more special and unique. The writing was so gorgeous and descriptive, the plot twists so intriguing, the love story so gripping, passionate and romantic. Must have patience for slow burn but then explosive steam🔥🔥🔥
It takes a brilliant, creative, and convincing author to write an amnesia and mistaken identity plot...and, of course, it was pulled off seamlessly with utter precision, attention to detail, and profound care.
This book is an underrated gem...which is a crime IMO.
Pure moody deliciousness of the very best kind.
An HEA that makes the heart soar it is so satisfying
Crime solving hunk Grant Morgan is the seemingly aloof, quick-witted, smoldering, tender-hearted, brawny, protective, Bow Street Runner Hero👮♂️ of your HR BBF dreams...fully capable in the streets AND under the sheets😉🥵💖...he falls HARD
A dark, daring, interesting, and beautiful read.
...I loved every minute.
My first audiobook and it was absolutely amazing. I love detectives, investigations, mystery, intrigue, suspense and historical romance...This book had it ALL. A bit darker than other Lisa Kleypas books, and that made it all the more special and unique. The writing was so gorgeous and descriptive, the plot twists so intriguing, the love story so gripping, passionate and romantic. Must have patience for slow burn but then explosive steam🔥🔥🔥
It takes a brilliant, creative, and convincing author to write an amnesia and mistaken identity plot...and, of course, it was pulled off seamlessly with utter precision, attention to detail, and profound care.
This book is an underrated gem...which is a crime IMO.
Pure moody deliciousness of the very best kind.
An HEA that makes the heart soar it is so satisfying
Crime solving hunk Grant Morgan is the seemingly aloof, quick-witted, smoldering, tender-hearted, brawny, protective, Bow Street Runner Hero👮♂️ of your HR BBF dreams...fully capable in the streets AND under the sheets😉🥵💖...he falls HARD
A dark, daring, interesting, and beautiful read.
...I loved every minute.
March 28, 2023
An insane cop is offended a woman kind of rebuffed him once so when he finds her half-dead and with amnesia he convinces her that they’re a couple until she falls in love with him in this absolute batshit Lisa Kleypas offering.
September 7, 2016
3.5 The twist was everything stars
Not one of LK's best,but nevertheless a well written read.
Not one of LK's best,but nevertheless a well written read.
October 27, 2016
¡Me encantó! ❤️
February 9, 2012
3.5 stars
I liked this book, but the plot needed a deft hand to pull it off. Lisa Kleypas did in fact pull it off, but not to my satisfaction. It was good, it kept me reading, but I don't really think I enjoyed the hero of this book for at least 75% of the book. I did come to like him, but with all the descriptions of him as being large, hulking, a lummox, a thick pelt of fur (chest hair), having large hands, I just pictured him as Robert, the brother from Everybody Loves Raymond. I couldn't help myself! He came to mind no matter how I tried to give the hero those beautiful green eyes, or the gorgeous abs of steel...I got Robert every time.
The prostitute storyline was very bold, especially with the revenge plot thrown in-that was my dislike for the hero, the vengeance he wanted. And even though he fell in love with Vivien before he knew the truth, I still had the same doubts Vivien had. I feel Lisa Kleypas did a good job on the plot, but I felt that the actual murderer came out of left field. Well, the man who hired the murderer did. We could all see the actual murderer from a mile a way.
Anyways, I enjoyed it, but felt at some point a bit more remorse on Grant's part would have helped me, and a bit more fire and anger from the heroine would have helped me with her.
I liked this book, but the plot needed a deft hand to pull it off. Lisa Kleypas did in fact pull it off, but not to my satisfaction. It was good, it kept me reading, but I don't really think I enjoyed the hero of this book for at least 75% of the book. I did come to like him, but with all the descriptions of him as being large, hulking, a lummox, a thick pelt of fur (chest hair), having large hands, I just pictured him as Robert, the brother from Everybody Loves Raymond. I couldn't help myself! He came to mind no matter how I tried to give the hero those beautiful green eyes, or the gorgeous abs of steel...I got Robert every time.
The prostitute storyline was very bold, especially with the revenge plot thrown in-that was my dislike for the hero, the vengeance he wanted. And even though he fell in love with Vivien before he knew the truth, I still had the same doubts Vivien had. I feel Lisa Kleypas did a good job on the plot, but I felt that the actual murderer came out of left field. Well, the man who hired the murderer did. We could all see the actual murderer from a mile a way.
Anyways, I enjoyed it, but felt at some point a bit more remorse on Grant's part would have helped me, and a bit more fire and anger from the heroine would have helped me with her.
March 25, 2023
4.5 stars!
“She was sore in places she had never been sore before.”
Feels good to be back in the world of Lisa Kleypas. I loved Grant & Victoria’s story so much! A woman’s body pulled from icy cold waters, presumably dead starts coughing and awakens not remembering who she is or what happened. This story had several tropes in it. Big strong dashing Bow Street Runner starting to fall for this woman with Amnesia. A case of mistaken identity. Body guard falling for the one he is protecting. I won’t spoil all the complexities of this adrenaline rush of a love story. You’ll just have to read it yourself! Onto the second book in this series.
“She was sore in places she had never been sore before.”
Feels good to be back in the world of Lisa Kleypas. I loved Grant & Victoria’s story so much! A woman’s body pulled from icy cold waters, presumably dead starts coughing and awakens not remembering who she is or what happened. This story had several tropes in it. Big strong dashing Bow Street Runner starting to fall for this woman with Amnesia. A case of mistaken identity. Body guard falling for the one he is protecting. I won’t spoil all the complexities of this adrenaline rush of a love story. You’ll just have to read it yourself! Onto the second book in this series.
April 6, 2019
La verdad es que Lisa Kleypas nunca defrauda... Esta ha sido una historia diferente, bastante diferente, con algunos giros que no me esperaba y una pareja protagonista con mucha química.
April 13, 2017
I read this book many many years ago and loved it. It is a wonderfully written book, definitely one of Lisa Kleypas' classics. Bow Street Runner rescued the virgin sister of a famous courtesan. The attraction is steamy and the lead characters very likable.
What I find a bit unsettling is I never really knew whether the hero liked the heroine or her sister. The mistaken identity is naturally the big plot in the book. It did make me wonder, is he attracted to the heroin, really? Or it is her sister that he lusts after and the poor girl was just a replacement?
Overall a very entertaining story. I would still rate it 5 stars. The characters are extremely lovable and you just want them to be together.
What I find a bit unsettling is I never really knew whether the hero liked the heroine or her sister. The mistaken identity is naturally the big plot in the book. It did make me wonder, is he attracted to the heroin, really? Or it is her sister that he lusts after and the poor girl was just a replacement?
Overall a very entertaining story. I would still rate it 5 stars. The characters are extremely lovable and you just want them to be together.
June 29, 2021
4 ½-5 stars – Historical Romance
November 6, 2014
2.5
The good thing about this story is that the characters aren't the usual ones. They are not members of aristocracy and overcoming the issue of her being a prostitute should have been a problem then. The Runners are great choice.
After Grant Morgan takes Vivien to his home to recover, remembering how she spread gossip about him two months ago because he refused her, all he wants is revenge. He doesn't expect Vivien not to remember who she is nor that she is completely different person from manipulative liar he met before.
And that brings me to the bad: the solution for all this is plain lazy.
Wallflowers series has its humour and, as far as I could see from reviews, the Hathaways too. Here, I love the idea of Bow Street Runners being at the centre and I will read the rest of this series.
The good thing about this story is that the characters aren't the usual ones. They are not members of aristocracy and overcoming the issue of her being a prostitute should have been a problem then. The Runners are great choice.
After Grant Morgan takes Vivien to his home to recover, remembering how she spread gossip about him two months ago because he refused her, all he wants is revenge. He doesn't expect Vivien not to remember who she is nor that she is completely different person from manipulative liar he met before.
And that brings me to the bad: the solution for all this is plain lazy.
Wallflowers series has its humour and, as far as I could see from reviews, the Hathaways too. Here, I love the idea of Bow Street Runners being at the centre and I will read the rest of this series.
March 4, 2018
He releído esta novela, porque no me acordaba absolutamente de nada de ella. Incluso la tenía con puntuación baja en mi lista privada lecturas. No es la única Kleypas que me ha parecido floja y he acabado eliminando, pero sí la única de la que no recordaba ni una coma. Y he alucinado, porque me ha gustado mucho. Es una prueba de lo que influye nuestro ánimo en cómo asimilamos una lectura. O lo que buscamos en un momento determinado. Debí leerla en mi época de fascinación por los lores y demás aristócratas y, claro, un rudo detective de Bow Street y una chica de campo no debieron llamar mi atención. Ahora que ya he devorado casi todo tipo de romántica, creo que soy un poco más objetiva con lo que leo y mis preferencias son más amplias si la novela tiene un mínimo de calidad. Y Angel o demonio es una buena novela.
Una trama con resolución previsible en parte (dos intrigas se reparten la novela), que aun así me ha enganchado por la forma en que avanza la historia y la relación entre los protagonistas y también por los secundarios que los rodean, todos bien definidos y tan reales que te hacen sentir que los conoces desde hace años.
Una vez solucionada una de las intrigas, la autora vuelve a atraparnos con la segunda hasta el final con una mezcla de acción y romance perfectamente equilibrada. Grant es un protagonista masculino maravilloso, rudo y tierno a la vez, que se va enamorando de quien no quiere enamorarse. De ella no puedo hablar para no desvelar el misterio que la envuelve, pero también es un personaje bien construido. De todos modos, creo que es él quien se lleva el mérito de que la novela mantenga el interés de principio a fin. La trama del romance está muy bien desarrollada, no tanto la de misterio, pero se trata de una novela romántica, al fin y al cabo. Y es el primero de una serie de 3, lo que obliga a la autora a conceder espacio a los próximos protagonistas, algo en lo que Kleypas es toda una experta. Recomiendo leer esta novela a cualquier adicta a la romántica, y si os gusta, continuad con el resto de la serie, que es muy buena.
Una trama con resolución previsible en parte (dos intrigas se reparten la novela), que aun así me ha enganchado por la forma en que avanza la historia y la relación entre los protagonistas y también por los secundarios que los rodean, todos bien definidos y tan reales que te hacen sentir que los conoces desde hace años.
Una vez solucionada una de las intrigas, la autora vuelve a atraparnos con la segunda hasta el final con una mezcla de acción y romance perfectamente equilibrada. Grant es un protagonista masculino maravilloso, rudo y tierno a la vez, que se va enamorando de quien no quiere enamorarse. De ella no puedo hablar para no desvelar el misterio que la envuelve, pero también es un personaje bien construido. De todos modos, creo que es él quien se lleva el mérito de que la novela mantenga el interés de principio a fin. La trama del romance está muy bien desarrollada, no tanto la de misterio, pero se trata de una novela romántica, al fin y al cabo. Y es el primero de una serie de 3, lo que obliga a la autora a conceder espacio a los próximos protagonistas, algo en lo que Kleypas es toda una experta. Recomiendo leer esta novela a cualquier adicta a la romántica, y si os gusta, continuad con el resto de la serie, que es muy buena.
June 28, 2023
3.5 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
A beautiful woman, a fire on the hearth, a roomful of books, and a bottle of wine…It might not have been every man’s idea of heaven, but God knew it was his.
It comes at no surprise that this is yet another Lisa Kleypas book I enjoyed, my 22nd book by her probably? I was prompted to rate it lower than 4-stars due to a few issues.
Someone to Watch Over Me follows a searing romance between a woman who lost her memory and an enigmatic Bow Street Runner who offered his home as sanctuary and became her protector.
She may not remember who she is, but Grant Morgan does and she is none other than his nemesis and one of London's most scandalous beauties, Vivien Rose Duvall.
And it was time for Vivien to receive her reckoning.
“I swore you would rue the day you made a fool of me, Vivien,” he murmured. “But the opportunity has come a hell of lot sooner than I expected.”
I think the romance was little rushed but I did enjoy the chemistry between Grant and Vivien.
Vivien begins to pick up crumbs of her shameless past and she is distraught and Grant discovers an unexpected tenderness and intelligence about the maddening woman who haunted him in the past.
The attraction between them unfurls into love.
And without spoiling anything, there's more than meets the eye and it's for the reader to figure out.
Content warning may include mentions of sex work, slut-shaming, kidnapping, dubious consent.
A beautiful woman, a fire on the hearth, a roomful of books, and a bottle of wine…It might not have been every man’s idea of heaven, but God knew it was his.
It comes at no surprise that this is yet another Lisa Kleypas book I enjoyed, my 22nd book by her probably? I was prompted to rate it lower than 4-stars due to a few issues.
Someone to Watch Over Me follows a searing romance between a woman who lost her memory and an enigmatic Bow Street Runner who offered his home as sanctuary and became her protector.
She may not remember who she is, but Grant Morgan does and she is none other than his nemesis and one of London's most scandalous beauties, Vivien Rose Duvall.
And it was time for Vivien to receive her reckoning.
“I swore you would rue the day you made a fool of me, Vivien,” he murmured. “But the opportunity has come a hell of lot sooner than I expected.”
I think the romance was little rushed but I did enjoy the chemistry between Grant and Vivien.
Vivien begins to pick up crumbs of her shameless past and she is distraught and Grant discovers an unexpected tenderness and intelligence about the maddening woman who haunted him in the past.
The attraction between them unfurls into love.
And without spoiling anything, there's more than meets the eye and it's for the reader to figure out.
Content warning may include mentions of sex work, slut-shaming, kidnapping, dubious consent.
February 10, 2009
I´m a fairly new reader of LK´s books and I´m yet to read a bad one. STWOM is not the best I´ve ever read, but it´s very good.
The "big mystery" involving the heroine´s identity was pretty easy to figure out, but I enjoyed following the hero try to solve it. I loved Grant, a working-class hero who was a welcome "breeze of fresh air" among the usual Lords that dominate historical romances. I loved Victoria too, an adorable "country girl" who was the perfect match for Grant. I truly enjoyed seeing both of them falling in love with each other, despite the circumstances. And, last but not least, they were both avid readers. How could you not love that? :)
LK knows how to write characters that you can´t help but love, and Grant and Victoria are just adorable. BUT their story wasn´t that strong: Grant´s motive for seeking revenge against Viven was not believable - come on, he was above that pettiness! - and, as said above, the "mystery" wasn´t difficult to guess.
Anyway, I loved this book for the characters and had a wonderful time reading it.
The "big mystery" involving the heroine´s identity was pretty easy to figure out, but I enjoyed following the hero try to solve it. I loved Grant, a working-class hero who was a welcome "breeze of fresh air" among the usual Lords that dominate historical romances. I loved Victoria too, an adorable "country girl" who was the perfect match for Grant. I truly enjoyed seeing both of them falling in love with each other, despite the circumstances. And, last but not least, they were both avid readers. How could you not love that? :)
LK knows how to write characters that you can´t help but love, and Grant and Victoria are just adorable. BUT their story wasn´t that strong: Grant´s motive for seeking revenge against Viven was not believable - come on, he was above that pettiness! - and, as said above, the "mystery" wasn´t difficult to guess.
Anyway, I loved this book for the characters and had a wonderful time reading it.
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