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Never a Wallflower #1
The Spinster and the Rake
The marriage game is afoot in this clever blend of My Fair Lady meets Pride and Prejudice with a twist!
Edward Stanhope, the icy Duke of Thornfield, likes his life in a certain order. Give him a strong drink, a good book, and his dog for company, and he’s content. But when he goes to his library and finds a woman sitting in his chair, petting his dog, what starts as a request for her to leave quickly turns to a fiery battle of wits, leading to a steamy kiss that could ruin them both if they were caught.
So of course, damn it all, that’s when Edward’s aunt walks in, and thereafter announces Miss Georgiana Bly is the future Duchess of Thornfield.
Georgiana was content to be a spinster, spending her days reading and working to keep her family out of debt. But now her days are spent locked away with a growly duke, learning how to be the perfect duchess, and her nights spent fighting the undeniable attraction to a man who was never meant for her.
As their wedding day approaches, the attraction between them burns hot and fierce, but is it enough to melt the duke’s chilly facade?
Edward Stanhope, the icy Duke of Thornfield, likes his life in a certain order. Give him a strong drink, a good book, and his dog for company, and he’s content. But when he goes to his library and finds a woman sitting in his chair, petting his dog, what starts as a request for her to leave quickly turns to a fiery battle of wits, leading to a steamy kiss that could ruin them both if they were caught.
So of course, damn it all, that’s when Edward’s aunt walks in, and thereafter announces Miss Georgiana Bly is the future Duchess of Thornfield.
Georgiana was content to be a spinster, spending her days reading and working to keep her family out of debt. But now her days are spent locked away with a growly duke, learning how to be the perfect duchess, and her nights spent fighting the undeniable attraction to a man who was never meant for her.
As their wedding day approaches, the attraction between them burns hot and fierce, but is it enough to melt the duke’s chilly facade?
306 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 9, 2021
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4903 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 554 reviews
January 3, 2024
DNF at 60%
Sigh.
I had high hopes for this because I love a neurodivergent character in historical romance, but this did not work for me. Right off the bat, I didn’t love the beginning, it felt implausible, why would he kiss this woman he just met if he was very touch averse? And he seemed very aware and wary of being trapped into marriage but all of a sudden grabbed a stranger and kissed her in the library during a large ball where anyone could come in? It all happened too fast and didn’t fit with his previous inner musings.
This does have a Tessa Dare feel to it but lacked her charm and likeable characters. I’d categorize it as historical fantasy romance, or fairytale, in that it didn’t have a solid set in the historical realities of the time it was based in, or not an accurate one. There was some info dumping on the Jacobeans and Bonnie King Charlie, that I zoned out for, but other than the historical lecture to prove how not like other girls Georgiana was this didn’t fit in any specific historical time period: I’d call this Regency-ish.
The narration was ok but the narrator did not do enough to distinguish the male voice from the female one, his needed to be gruffer and deeper pitched. I sometimes didn’t realize it was supposed to be him speaking and not her.
As for the hero, his autism seemed to go in and out. I’m no expert on ASD but I like traits to stay consistent for characters, no matter what they are. This also felt very harsh towards him: this heroine wants to ‘teach him to be a better man’ and he ‘overcomes so much’ and he is likened to an abused horse at one point. ASD is not a curable ailment to be overcome, it’s not the result of trauma. This felt like the author did enough research to know about autistic stereotypes but not enough to make a fully nuanced neurodivergent character. Often he was just an ass. But mostly I just didn’t engage with the story. The only conflict in this book is that the hero is difficult to deal with, which is explained by his different ‘broken’ brain. It’s pride and prejudice HEAVY but done in an entirely too superficial way. I didn’t care for either character and just kept putting this down and not wanting to pick it back up.
Dropping this in the DNF pile, unfortunately.
Sigh.
I had high hopes for this because I love a neurodivergent character in historical romance, but this did not work for me. Right off the bat, I didn’t love the beginning, it felt implausible, why would he kiss this woman he just met if he was very touch averse? And he seemed very aware and wary of being trapped into marriage but all of a sudden grabbed a stranger and kissed her in the library during a large ball where anyone could come in? It all happened too fast and didn’t fit with his previous inner musings.
This does have a Tessa Dare feel to it but lacked her charm and likeable characters. I’d categorize it as historical fantasy romance, or fairytale, in that it didn’t have a solid set in the historical realities of the time it was based in, or not an accurate one. There was some info dumping on the Jacobeans and Bonnie King Charlie, that I zoned out for, but other than the historical lecture to prove how not like other girls Georgiana was this didn’t fit in any specific historical time period: I’d call this Regency-ish.
The narration was ok but the narrator did not do enough to distinguish the male voice from the female one, his needed to be gruffer and deeper pitched. I sometimes didn’t realize it was supposed to be him speaking and not her.
As for the hero, his autism seemed to go in and out. I’m no expert on ASD but I like traits to stay consistent for characters, no matter what they are. This also felt very harsh towards him: this heroine wants to ‘teach him to be a better man’ and he ‘overcomes so much’ and he is likened to an abused horse at one point. ASD is not a curable ailment to be overcome, it’s not the result of trauma. This felt like the author did enough research to know about autistic stereotypes but not enough to make a fully nuanced neurodivergent character. Often he was just an ass. But mostly I just didn’t engage with the story. The only conflict in this book is that the hero is difficult to deal with, which is explained by his different ‘broken’ brain. It’s pride and prejudice HEAVY but done in an entirely too superficial way. I didn’t care for either character and just kept putting this down and not wanting to pick it back up.
Dropping this in the DNF pile, unfortunately.
February 12, 2022
This was just such a sweet and adorable historical romance. This is definitely grump/sunshine and I loved the connection between Edward and Georgiana. Georgiana is hiding out in Edward's library and has no idea that he is the duke. He threatens to kiss her if she doesn't leave, and she takes him up on the challenge. But the two are caught and Edward proposes marriage to save her reputation. Their romance and connection is just so sweet. Edward is on the autism spectrum, and it is so sweet how patient Eva is with him and really understands him as a person. Georgiana needs lessons on how to be a duchess and she truly hates all social events, so that was a fun aspect of the novel. The romance was pretty low angst, but I didn't mind that. If you just want a sweet romance, you should try this one.
January 26, 2021
Series: Never A Wallflower #1
Publication Date: 2/9/21
Number of Pages: 400
This was the first book I’ve read by Eva Devon and it was an absolutely marvelous introduction to her. The writing was excellent, the story was excellently plotted and delivered, and the characters were absolutely perfect. I totally adored our flawed hero who did everything in his power to change himself, to make himself ‘acceptable’ for his lady. We definitely see his life-long struggle with fitting in and coping with what definitely has to be Asperger’s/autism.
Edward Stanhope, the Duke of Thornfield, is known for being icy and uncaring. That isn’t exactly the case – he just doesn’t pick up on subtle social cues such as facial expressions, he is hypersensitive to sounds and crowds, and likes things in a certain order. Luckily, he had loving parents – and then a loving aunt – who helped him develop coping mechanisms. I loved watching him learn to cope with his very unexpected new wife. He was such a lovely man.
Edward’s Aunt Agatha knows it is time for him to marry and she has arranged a house party filled with eligible debutantes to see if any pique his interest. (NOTE: For a loving understanding aunt, this seems like a really bad thing to do to him.) After one of those debutantes makes a particularly blatant attempt to trap him into marriage, he escapes to his ‘special’ room with his ‘special’ chair in order to calm himself before having to deal with the crowded ballroom that evening. He has to have the time to himself or he won’t be able to function at the ball. Yet, when he arrives in HIS room, someone is sitting in HIS chair. He has to make her leave – he has to have his time. He orders her to leave and, mistaking him for a servant, she refuses. He tells her he’ll kiss her if she doesn’t leave – and she dares him. He thinks the threat will scare her away – and she thinks no servant would do such a thing. They were both wrong. And the kiss – OMGoodness – sparks flew. Unfortunately, the door also opened and the kiss was witnessed. They don’t even know each other’s names – and now they are to marry.
Miss Georgiana Bly is a spinster – and intends to remain one. Her family is genteel, but only just barely. She isn’t comfortable dancing and has a terrible tendency to say exactly what she thinks. She is much, much more comfortable in a library – among books wherever they are. So, when she finds a small nook of a room filled with so many lovely books – and the most comfortable chair ever – she settles in for a nice evening of reading while her parents and sisters are dancing at the ball. Imagine the impertinence of a servant coming in and actually ordering her to leave! Well, she won’t have it. How dare he threaten her with a kiss! Then he does – kiss her.
I loved seeing the growth of the two main characters. He was the most honorable man and did his best to make his marriage work. I loved watching him go from believing she had deliberately trapped him into marriage to loving her beyond measure. I also loved watching her move from the hurt his seeming indifference caused her – to learning about and understanding his difficulties. Then, to put the icing on the cake, there is the most delightful epilogue.
I can definitely recommend this book and I do so look forward to my next read by this new-to-me author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 2/9/21
Number of Pages: 400
This was the first book I’ve read by Eva Devon and it was an absolutely marvelous introduction to her. The writing was excellent, the story was excellently plotted and delivered, and the characters were absolutely perfect. I totally adored our flawed hero who did everything in his power to change himself, to make himself ‘acceptable’ for his lady. We definitely see his life-long struggle with fitting in and coping with what definitely has to be Asperger’s/autism.
Edward Stanhope, the Duke of Thornfield, is known for being icy and uncaring. That isn’t exactly the case – he just doesn’t pick up on subtle social cues such as facial expressions, he is hypersensitive to sounds and crowds, and likes things in a certain order. Luckily, he had loving parents – and then a loving aunt – who helped him develop coping mechanisms. I loved watching him learn to cope with his very unexpected new wife. He was such a lovely man.
Edward’s Aunt Agatha knows it is time for him to marry and she has arranged a house party filled with eligible debutantes to see if any pique his interest. (NOTE: For a loving understanding aunt, this seems like a really bad thing to do to him.) After one of those debutantes makes a particularly blatant attempt to trap him into marriage, he escapes to his ‘special’ room with his ‘special’ chair in order to calm himself before having to deal with the crowded ballroom that evening. He has to have the time to himself or he won’t be able to function at the ball. Yet, when he arrives in HIS room, someone is sitting in HIS chair. He has to make her leave – he has to have his time. He orders her to leave and, mistaking him for a servant, she refuses. He tells her he’ll kiss her if she doesn’t leave – and she dares him. He thinks the threat will scare her away – and she thinks no servant would do such a thing. They were both wrong. And the kiss – OMGoodness – sparks flew. Unfortunately, the door also opened and the kiss was witnessed. They don’t even know each other’s names – and now they are to marry.
Miss Georgiana Bly is a spinster – and intends to remain one. Her family is genteel, but only just barely. She isn’t comfortable dancing and has a terrible tendency to say exactly what she thinks. She is much, much more comfortable in a library – among books wherever they are. So, when she finds a small nook of a room filled with so many lovely books – and the most comfortable chair ever – she settles in for a nice evening of reading while her parents and sisters are dancing at the ball. Imagine the impertinence of a servant coming in and actually ordering her to leave! Well, she won’t have it. How dare he threaten her with a kiss! Then he does – kiss her.
I loved seeing the growth of the two main characters. He was the most honorable man and did his best to make his marriage work. I loved watching him go from believing she had deliberately trapped him into marriage to loving her beyond measure. I also loved watching her move from the hurt his seeming indifference caused her – to learning about and understanding his difficulties. Then, to put the icing on the cake, there is the most delightful epilogue.
I can definitely recommend this book and I do so look forward to my next read by this new-to-me author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 7, 2022
Okay just reread this and bumped it up to 5⭐️ I think I missed the spark the first time around bc I wasn’t paying close enough attention to the audiobook but my god the end of this !!!! So fucking cute 😩
✨“It seems we have found the future Duchess of Thornfield.”✨
From the summary, I knew this one was going to be cozy and classic. Edward finds reading his favorite book in his library, Georgiana mistakes him for a footman, which obviously ends in a passionate—if a touch scandalous—kiss, which obviously ends in compromise. A truly classic Romance Novel Scenario. And I loved every minute of it!
This is my second read and I enjoyed it even more the second time! Their relationship was just so warm and fuzzy. He bought her a reading chair and a bookshop and knew her favorite jam and memorized her favorite authors and I really just think he’s delicious. He takes in mistreated horses and just gives them really good lives and they love him and flock to him when he enters a room. He also has a dog and reads and is generally a cinnamon roll.
My favorite part of their relationship was when he explained who he truly was to her and how he felt abandoned the morning after their wedding. It was so important!! They both felt unseen that morning and I’m happy his feelings didn’t get erased. After that, there wasn’t a breakup or even much of a fight. It was adorable.
I really liked how understanding and nice Georgiana’s parents were, especially her mother. So many times, the parents are just horrible and they absolutely drag me down. They were a nice and I appreciated change here!
Overall, I’ll definitely rereread this again because it was adorable. I also loved the second one. Victory!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶*/5
*There were three scenes and they were pretty basic but I liked them! It also kicked off pretty early on and I liked the progression. Also we got a little horse stable action…yeehaw!
_______
Original review:
The ending of this was super cute omg!! The beginning was a bit slow and I found myself comparing it to the Stacy Reid I just read (boo me) but overall I think I’d reread and will def read the second!
✨“It seems we have found the future Duchess of Thornfield.”✨
From the summary, I knew this one was going to be cozy and classic. Edward finds reading his favorite book in his library, Georgiana mistakes him for a footman, which obviously ends in a passionate—if a touch scandalous—kiss, which obviously ends in compromise. A truly classic Romance Novel Scenario. And I loved every minute of it!
This is my second read and I enjoyed it even more the second time! Their relationship was just so warm and fuzzy. He bought her a reading chair and a bookshop and knew her favorite jam and memorized her favorite authors and I really just think he’s delicious. He takes in mistreated horses and just gives them really good lives and they love him and flock to him when he enters a room. He also has a dog and reads and is generally a cinnamon roll.
My favorite part of their relationship was when he explained who he truly was to her and how he felt abandoned the morning after their wedding. It was so important!! They both felt unseen that morning and I’m happy his feelings didn’t get erased. After that, there wasn’t a breakup or even much of a fight. It was adorable.
I really liked how understanding and nice Georgiana’s parents were, especially her mother. So many times, the parents are just horrible and they absolutely drag me down. They were a nice and I appreciated change here!
Overall, I’ll definitely rereread this again because it was adorable. I also loved the second one. Victory!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶*/5
*There were three scenes and they were pretty basic but I liked them! It also kicked off pretty early on and I liked the progression. Also we got a little horse stable action…yeehaw!
_______
Original review:
The ending of this was super cute omg!! The beginning was a bit slow and I found myself comparing it to the Stacy Reid I just read (boo me) but overall I think I’d reread and will def read the second!
November 6, 2021
I just plain enjoyed this book. I love a snobby Duke who gets "stuck" marrying a smart woman with a lot of common sense. There was a misunderstanding and next thing you know they are engaged and sooo attracted to each other. The Duke I would say is on the Asperger’s/Autism scale. He has managed his distaste for crowds and has learned to read cues. Georgiana is a blue stocking who challenges the Duke and they are a great couple.
December 23, 2022
⭐⭐⭐💫
3½ stars.
A good story with intriguing characters.
Rather good chemistry and romantic build up.
3½ stars.
A good story with intriguing characters.
Rather good chemistry and romantic build up.
February 11, 2021
5⭐
I loved this! From the beginning it caught my attention. I laughed a lot with their bickering and it was super funny how they ended up engaged.
Both main characters were great. I don't know why I like rude characters, but there's something so interesting about them.
And I loved the heroine's mother. What a sweet lady!
Anyway, I super recommend this book!
I loved this! From the beginning it caught my attention. I laughed a lot with their bickering and it was super funny how they ended up engaged.
Both main characters were great. I don't know why I like rude characters, but there's something so interesting about them.
And I loved the heroine's mother. What a sweet lady!
Anyway, I super recommend this book!
February 13, 2021
I skimmed from 20-50% and stuck it out until 65% but then decided life is too short and stopped. It’s wallpapery, which is totally fine, but far too unpolished and underdeveloped for my tastes. It should really be titled The Young Wallflower and The Anti-Social Duke or something to that effect which just highlights how Devon didn’t know what it was that she was actually writing, and consequently neither did I know what I was reading.
The MCs were a mishmash of characteristics that didn’t want to fit, akin to when salad dressing separates...Also! Constantly shaming and gaslighting a heroine for being herself, liking herself, and having standards for how humans should behave does not endear one to a Hero.
It was like a worse version of Project Duchess, which I also DNF. Scarlett Scott’s Darling Duke is leagues better as is the wallpapery bliss + a masterful take on this trope from Tessa Dare in Any Duchess Will Do... and it all makes The Spinster and The Rake pale by comparison.
The MCs were a mishmash of characteristics that didn’t want to fit, akin to when salad dressing separates...Also! Constantly shaming and gaslighting a heroine for being herself, liking herself, and having standards for how humans should behave does not endear one to a Hero.
It was like a worse version of Project Duchess, which I also DNF. Scarlett Scott’s Darling Duke is leagues better as is the wallpapery bliss + a masterful take on this trope from Tessa Dare in Any Duchess Will Do... and it all makes The Spinster and The Rake pale by comparison.
February 5, 2021
I seldom give 5 Star reviews for books anymore since after all these years I am much more discerning about my ratings but this one made the grade. Our Edward and Georgiana were one of the more strange couples in my history of historical romance. He has a secret but he is a very stern and cold Duke and she is the exact opposite. In addition to being exceptionally well read for a lady of her time she has an indomitable spirit which crashes upon his dour personality many times. Theirs is a rocky start to a romance as there ever has been but watching it develop into more than a competition was intriguing and the author let you know something about the Duke was off but a well kept secret and has you guessing for most of the book until it is revealed. While most books of this nature put most of the story development on one or the other this one seems to do a much better job of letting you into the minds of both of our couple and what makes them do what they do and why. Add to the fact that if I was not reading the book I was wondering about things in the book which is always a good sign of an expectational novel. I will highly recommend this story and add this author to my "auto-buy" list until she disappoints me . 5 Stars for a wonderful story told very well.
February 4, 2021
Good story with strong characters. A bit predictable in parts. 3.5 stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book was a little interesting for me. I actually have mixed feelings about the story.
Of course, one of the interesting parts of historical romances is the overly proper methods in courtship. The author blended in some very straight-laced situations into the story and I felt very stiff and formal in spots myself while reading it. LOL
While it starts off with a bit of fire and spark that soon gives way to the uncomfortable situations and conversations while getting to know each other. For me, there was a lot of conversation and back-and-forth banter that didn’t really cut it for me. I know a lot of readers enjoy that so it’s just a personal thing for me. Plus, it was a bit predictable in spots.
But the story did have some unusual quirks with strong, unique characters and situations that makes it memorable and engaging. The heat level is moderate and it’s a very satisfying, easy to read trope with a lead-in to the next story in the series to come.
A perfect story for the historical romance lovers to cozy up with and dive in.
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-spinster...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book was a little interesting for me. I actually have mixed feelings about the story.
Of course, one of the interesting parts of historical romances is the overly proper methods in courtship. The author blended in some very straight-laced situations into the story and I felt very stiff and formal in spots myself while reading it. LOL
While it starts off with a bit of fire and spark that soon gives way to the uncomfortable situations and conversations while getting to know each other. For me, there was a lot of conversation and back-and-forth banter that didn’t really cut it for me. I know a lot of readers enjoy that so it’s just a personal thing for me. Plus, it was a bit predictable in spots.
But the story did have some unusual quirks with strong, unique characters and situations that makes it memorable and engaging. The heat level is moderate and it’s a very satisfying, easy to read trope with a lead-in to the next story in the series to come.
A perfect story for the historical romance lovers to cozy up with and dive in.
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-spinster...
August 9, 2021
The Hero is a good man, loved by his family. He appears to be autistic. They are compromised; he knows he has to marry her but has some concerns about her family. She's practical, expected to not marry. Her parent's characters and relationship was a weak point in the plot, made little sense. He's a fool and her mother is smart, and gentry who married down. After my 2nd read, I rated it 5 stars as I liked how this couple actually talked together and planned. Didn't happen at first, but they worked together as they were determined to do better.
April 1, 2021
Please note this review comes from my point of view as an actual autistic.
Another day, another book with inaccurate and harmful autistic rep. Will it ever end?
Although never explicitly stated that Edward is autistic (likely due to the time period the book is set in), he has so many stereotypical autistic traits that I simply do not believe that the author didn't know what she was doing when she wrote this - not to mention, he tells the heroine that his mind works different to others, which seems like pretty compelling evidence, on top of the stereotypes within the book.
I won't speak as to the author's intentions or experience but quite frankly the rep wasn't well written and was harmful - on top of it being stereotypical and very closely bordering on inaccurate, Edward's autism went away when it didn't suit the story, and it played into the neurotypical saviour/I'm not autistic when you're around narrative. It was full of micro aggression after micro aggression, with a bit of full on direct ableism for a little bit of spice.
Autism is referred to by Edward as a 'strangeness within me', and I shouldn't have to tell you that that's wrong - as is comparing someone who is autistic to an abused horse. There is nothing wrong with being autistic, it's not strange, it's not an 'inability to take on the world', and it's not something to be ashamed of or hidden, or that we should commend the heroine for 'putting up with', as the book suggests. Autistics are not 'broken' (“But he understood broken things, and the power of patience.”), nor is autism something we need to 'overcome' (“He was a man to be greatly admired. What had she fought through? What had she overcome?”). Autistic people are capable of intimacy, and the book continuously seems to insinuate that they aren't through the relationship between Edward and Georgiana.
It appears that the author did a little bit of research as some autistic traits were written into Edward's character, but in ways that were largely inaccurate.
The book discusses how Edward isn't good with reading facial expressions - this is a very common autistic trait, so that's great. But then in the same chapter, it says he evaluates that Georgiana looked defiant. So it just felt a bit strange that we were told one thing but shown another, and this inconsistency in rep happened throughout the story, which made the rep feel very inaccurate.
With autistics constantly fighting for their voices to be heard and neurotypicals speaking over them, this just seemed insensitive.
Even without the bad rep, this would've been at best a 2 star read - there was little build up, it jumped from scene to scene with abrupt cuts, lots of unresolved plot points, one dimensional characters and their romance lacked chemistry. Whilst there were some good scenes between them, there wasn't enough to make me root for them as a couple.
There were also a lot of inconsistencies in the plot and in terms of it being a historical romance - she was referred to as a spinster but due to the information we know about her she sounds like more of a wallflower, the timelines of different events don't quite work out, he had the reputation of being a rake but there appears to be no indication he had been a rake since his uni days, etc.
It's disappointing to see a book with harmful and inaccurate rep being published in 2021, and to see the reviews FULL of micro-aggressions (the autistic community prefers 'autistic' over 'person with autism', it is a neurotype and we do not need a cure for autism, etc.). If you are writing a review about the rep of a marginalised community, please do your research before you do so. In regards to the book itself, it seems clear that there was a lack of sensitivity readers and adequate research.
Another day, another book with inaccurate and harmful autistic rep. Will it ever end?
Although never explicitly stated that Edward is autistic (likely due to the time period the book is set in), he has so many stereotypical autistic traits that I simply do not believe that the author didn't know what she was doing when she wrote this - not to mention, he tells the heroine that his mind works different to others, which seems like pretty compelling evidence, on top of the stereotypes within the book.
I won't speak as to the author's intentions or experience but quite frankly the rep wasn't well written and was harmful - on top of it being stereotypical and very closely bordering on inaccurate, Edward's autism went away when it didn't suit the story, and it played into the neurotypical saviour/I'm not autistic when you're around narrative. It was full of micro aggression after micro aggression, with a bit of full on direct ableism for a little bit of spice.
Autism is referred to by Edward as a 'strangeness within me', and I shouldn't have to tell you that that's wrong - as is comparing someone who is autistic to an abused horse. There is nothing wrong with being autistic, it's not strange, it's not an 'inability to take on the world', and it's not something to be ashamed of or hidden, or that we should commend the heroine for 'putting up with', as the book suggests. Autistics are not 'broken' (“But he understood broken things, and the power of patience.”), nor is autism something we need to 'overcome' (“He was a man to be greatly admired. What had she fought through? What had she overcome?”). Autistic people are capable of intimacy, and the book continuously seems to insinuate that they aren't through the relationship between Edward and Georgiana.
It appears that the author did a little bit of research as some autistic traits were written into Edward's character, but in ways that were largely inaccurate.
"He did not like to be touched by strangers without his wish or approval, even lightly."Whilst it is true many autistics, including myself, do not like to be touched, most prefer hard touch, so this seemed like a strange phrasing.
The book discusses how Edward isn't good with reading facial expressions - this is a very common autistic trait, so that's great. But then in the same chapter, it says he evaluates that Georgiana looked defiant. So it just felt a bit strange that we were told one thing but shown another, and this inconsistency in rep happened throughout the story, which made the rep feel very inaccurate.
With autistics constantly fighting for their voices to be heard and neurotypicals speaking over them, this just seemed insensitive.
“Given that Edward had known he was not at all like the other boys, he and Montrose had forged an alliance. When the Scot had realized Edward could not speak up for himself, he’d happily helped give his friend voice.”
Even without the bad rep, this would've been at best a 2 star read - there was little build up, it jumped from scene to scene with abrupt cuts, lots of unresolved plot points, one dimensional characters and their romance lacked chemistry. Whilst there were some good scenes between them, there wasn't enough to make me root for them as a couple.
There were also a lot of inconsistencies in the plot and in terms of it being a historical romance - she was referred to as a spinster but due to the information we know about her she sounds like more of a wallflower, the timelines of different events don't quite work out, he had the reputation of being a rake but there appears to be no indication he had been a rake since his uni days, etc.
It's disappointing to see a book with harmful and inaccurate rep being published in 2021, and to see the reviews FULL of micro-aggressions (the autistic community prefers 'autistic' over 'person with autism', it is a neurotype and we do not need a cure for autism, etc.). If you are writing a review about the rep of a marginalised community, please do your research before you do so. In regards to the book itself, it seems clear that there was a lack of sensitivity readers and adequate research.
November 16, 2021
What a beautiful story. This feels like a historical version of a Helen Hoang romance, focused on a man who is on the autism spectrum. At the same time, it also felt like a worthy successor to a Jane Austen novel. Lovely. Sweet. Moving. There’s a bit of drama with the dad that, at first, felt out of the blue. But, similar to the Lydia drama in P&P, acts as a catalyst to reveal the duke’s true character. Highly recommend!
Some things that didn’t ring quite right include a too handsome duke (there aren’t that many dukes so why couldn’t he have been something else) and a four hour labor (seriously!?)
Some things that didn’t ring quite right include a too handsome duke (there aren’t that many dukes so why couldn’t he have been something else) and a four hour labor (seriously!?)
February 3, 2021
This was a new to me author and I couldn't get over that gorgeous dress on the cover, so between the title and the synopsis, I greedily jumped in.
I loved Georgiana. She's smart and opinionated and stands up for herself. Edward is gruff and stand off-ish, but there are reasons behind that. Together they are delightfully antagonistic at first and I really enjoyed reading them figure things out. Oh, and the chemistry is there right from the start.
Plot wise, it did seem like nothing really happened and I was okay with that. This story is about two people learning about themselves while navigating a new marriage and I was here for all of it. There is a bit of a slow burn in the affection area and it was delicious. And the slight angsty conflict was at the end and fixed up rather quickly.
Overall, it was a quick read with characters I could really root for. The epilogue was fantastic and I'm really hoping book two will be Elizabeth's. Regardless, I'll be reading it for sure.
**Huge thanks to Amara for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved Georgiana. She's smart and opinionated and stands up for herself. Edward is gruff and stand off-ish, but there are reasons behind that. Together they are delightfully antagonistic at first and I really enjoyed reading them figure things out. Oh, and the chemistry is there right from the start.
Plot wise, it did seem like nothing really happened and I was okay with that. This story is about two people learning about themselves while navigating a new marriage and I was here for all of it. There is a bit of a slow burn in the affection area and it was delicious. And the slight angsty conflict was at the end and fixed up rather quickly.
Overall, it was a quick read with characters I could really root for. The epilogue was fantastic and I'm really hoping book two will be Elizabeth's. Regardless, I'll be reading it for sure.
**Huge thanks to Amara for providing the arc free of charge**
April 13, 2021
Edward Stanhope, Duke of Thornfield, likes his life in a particular order. When he needs an escape during his aunt's house party, he's angered to find a stranger in his private, personal space. Miss Georgiana Bly is a fish out of water in polite society; she'd rather hide in a library with a good book than attend a ball. A fiery war or words with a handsome "servant" quickly turns into a passionate kiss that ruins them both.
This is my first read by Eva Devon, but I doubt it's the last. I really liked the lead in to this plot and I think Devon does a great job with her hero. While the author doesn't provide any kind of reader note, it is highly implied that Edward is autistic. Sometimes I felt like there was an emotional disconnect between the characters and, by the end, I realized that was purposeful. I thought their scenes together at the horse farm were moving.
Tropes: Spinster, Compromised, Class Difference
Eggplant Rating: 2.5
This is my first read by Eva Devon, but I doubt it's the last. I really liked the lead in to this plot and I think Devon does a great job with her hero. While the author doesn't provide any kind of reader note, it is highly implied that Edward is autistic. Sometimes I felt like there was an emotional disconnect between the characters and, by the end, I realized that was purposeful. I thought their scenes together at the horse farm were moving.
Tropes: Spinster, Compromised, Class Difference
Eggplant Rating: 2.5
February 19, 2021
The Spinster and the Rake was a delightful romance that left me with a smile on my face. If you're a fan of historical romance and opposites attracts, then you'll definitely want to add this one to your tbr!
Edward Stanhope, the Duke of Thornfield, always had women trying to snare him. Even though he had a cold, icy exterior. So when Edward went into his library, to get away from life for a moment, there was a woman sitting in his chair who refused to leave. After a verbal sparring and a passionate kiss, which unfortunately had an audience, he was left with the tough decision to make Georgiana the future Duchess of Thornfield.
I loved Georgiana! She was honest, brave and had a strong head on her shoulders. I was delighted how vocal Georgiana could be and that she had no filter when it came to talking with Edward. She definitely kept the Duke on his toes! But I felt awful for her. She did not want to be a duchess and people would talk. Why would a Duke even become engaged to someone like her? It wasn't feasible. But fate has a funny way of intervening in our lives.
Edward was such a mystery to me, and we got to be in his head too. He could be judgey and seemed to assume the worst at times. His walls were built up so high making him a challenge to get to know. But while he was regal, I loved how Georgiana made him falter and pause at times. I enjoyed that she was capable of making him see things in other ways, especially in regards to his behavior. So while it took us a while to get to know him inside and out, it was worth the wait. As Edward started to come out of his shell to Georgiana, you guys I melted. There was this other side of him that wanted to make her happy and please her. Every single tiny gesture or thought Edward did for Georgiana lit up my entire world!
When Georgiana and Edward were together, they were fire and ice. I loved watching how they butted heads, but they had to get to know each other. And it wasn't a quick process. They both had so much to learn about not only each other, but what their new future would be like too. Georgiana would no longer be spending her life as a spinster and Edward wouldn't be living his life in solitude anymore. While there was common ground here and there, they had to work to make their relationship grow. And all the while, the passion between them burned brightly.
The Spinster and the Rake was an entertaining story that romance lovers will enjoy. And if you love HEAs, you're going to love the epilogue in this book! It was fabulous! While Eva Devon is a new to me author, I'll definitely be checking out her other books!
PS Their game of bowls.....oh my heart that was the moment that gave me so much hope and love in my heart. They both give a little, have fun and I'm falling in love with them together.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Georgiana knew she had to simply accept the fact that she was marrying a man who would likely never love her. Who might not even know how to. Still, it was...hard.
Edward Stanhope, the Duke of Thornfield, always had women trying to snare him. Even though he had a cold, icy exterior. So when Edward went into his library, to get away from life for a moment, there was a woman sitting in his chair who refused to leave. After a verbal sparring and a passionate kiss, which unfortunately had an audience, he was left with the tough decision to make Georgiana the future Duchess of Thornfield.
Vindication coursed through her veins. At long last, she had shaken him and nothing could have felt better in this moment. Not even his kiss.
I loved Georgiana! She was honest, brave and had a strong head on her shoulders. I was delighted how vocal Georgiana could be and that she had no filter when it came to talking with Edward. She definitely kept the Duke on his toes! But I felt awful for her. She did not want to be a duchess and people would talk. Why would a Duke even become engaged to someone like her? It wasn't feasible. But fate has a funny way of intervening in our lives.
"I am not a dog, Your Grace."
"My dog is obedient and causes me a great deal of happiness. So we can agree on that point. You, Miss Bly, are not a dog."
She gasped.
Edward was such a mystery to me, and we got to be in his head too. He could be judgey and seemed to assume the worst at times. His walls were built up so high making him a challenge to get to know. But while he was regal, I loved how Georgiana made him falter and pause at times. I enjoyed that she was capable of making him see things in other ways, especially in regards to his behavior. So while it took us a while to get to know him inside and out, it was worth the wait. As Edward started to come out of his shell to Georgiana, you guys I melted. There was this other side of him that wanted to make her happy and please her. Every single tiny gesture or thought Edward did for Georgiana lit up my entire world!
This .
This was what would bring them together, even when everything else was tearing them apart. Of that he was certain.
Her lips parted as she gasped against him.
When Georgiana and Edward were together, they were fire and ice. I loved watching how they butted heads, but they had to get to know each other. And it wasn't a quick process. They both had so much to learn about not only each other, but what their new future would be like too. Georgiana would no longer be spending her life as a spinster and Edward wouldn't be living his life in solitude anymore. While there was common ground here and there, they had to work to make their relationship grow. And all the while, the passion between them burned brightly.
Edward wished her to be happy...
Much to his amazement, he wished it with all his heart. But most of all, he hoped they could find happiness together.
The Spinster and the Rake was an entertaining story that romance lovers will enjoy. And if you love HEAs, you're going to love the epilogue in this book! It was fabulous! While Eva Devon is a new to me author, I'll definitely be checking out her other books!
PS Their game of bowls.....oh my heart that was the moment that gave me so much hope and love in my heart. They both give a little, have fun and I'm falling in love with them together.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
October 30, 2021
Thanks to BJ for sharing her + impression of this
book on GR.
Edward was a routine-bound, icy duke. He also
avoided crowds and touch. And preferred silence
& time with his rescued horses, no longer valued
by others. He had evidence of some young ladies
scheming to become his duchess. He thought the
same of heroine Georgianna, of modest means,
but granddaughter of an earl.
Georgianna was smart, sweet, & challenged Edward.
Who was accustomed to deference. Ed revealed his
limitations & she loved him. A good love story.
Seems to me, this couple could choose to entertain
in a small venue, and/ or with a small # of couples
invited.
book on GR.
Edward was a routine-bound, icy duke. He also
avoided crowds and touch. And preferred silence
& time with his rescued horses, no longer valued
by others. He had evidence of some young ladies
scheming to become his duchess. He thought the
same of heroine Georgianna, of modest means,
but granddaughter of an earl.
Georgianna was smart, sweet, & challenged Edward.
Who was accustomed to deference. Ed revealed his
limitations & she loved him. A good love story.
Seems to me, this couple could choose to entertain
in a small venue, and/ or with a small # of couples
invited.
May 2, 2022
Georgiana and Edward. At first I was worried that only one person would have to change or be molded into what the other person wanted. However, both people in the story work at trying to be a better person to each other. This story really pointed out how it is important to be yourself while also being the kind of person that will go the extra step to do things/actions/words that your partner wants you to do just because you love them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2022
She was unique. She was plain. She was...herself without apology.
4.5 stars!
I will always be a sucker for a P&P inspired story, so when I felt a bookish slump creeping up on me, I immediately picked this one up. I'm so glad I took a chance on this author and story as I ended up enjoying it so much, even though nothing much in the way of physical action happened. A lot of this book's plot centered around the emotional growth and connection that eventually develops between Edward and Georgiana as Edward slowly allows Georgiana to see the real him while Georgiana gradually finds her place as the Duchess of Thornfield.
And although there was as much danger as I usually prefer in novels, I absolutely loved seeing the parallels between classic P&P scenes and the ones found in the book, especially the famous walk through the moors! The dialogue and chemistry between Edward and Georgiana was so well done, and I definitely want to read more by Eva Devon ♡
March 3, 2023
“A pair of muggy britches can lead to remarkable things.”
I can’t believe it took me this long to read this book! Honestly out of the 3 this one might be my favorite. I do love a marriage of convenience but that wasn’t exactly what this was. More of a marriage by accident? Kind of? Maybe not.
Georgianna isn’t a social person. She wants to be left alone to read (girl,same) so while at a country ball while her sisters are dancing the night away, she steals away to a secluded study to read. However, she isn’t alone.
Edward is a very stoic and grumpy Duke who always does the right thing. When he goes to his study before his ball for some peace and quiet he finds Georgianna not only there but sitting in his favorite chair. When she refuses to leave the room or even the chair he takes desperate measures that changes both of their lives immediately.
I can’t believe it took me this long to read this book! Honestly out of the 3 this one might be my favorite. I do love a marriage of convenience but that wasn’t exactly what this was. More of a marriage by accident? Kind of? Maybe not.
Georgianna isn’t a social person. She wants to be left alone to read (girl,same) so while at a country ball while her sisters are dancing the night away, she steals away to a secluded study to read. However, she isn’t alone.
Edward is a very stoic and grumpy Duke who always does the right thing. When he goes to his study before his ball for some peace and quiet he finds Georgianna not only there but sitting in his favorite chair. When she refuses to leave the room or even the chair he takes desperate measures that changes both of their lives immediately.
May 12, 2022
super fun and sweet historical romance! it has marriage of convenience, grumpy + sunshine, autistic coded rep, and it's really cute 🥰
January 29, 2021
Edward Stanhope, the Duke of Thornfield, prefers routine in his life and his own company to that of other people. His idiosyncrasies have given him a reputation for being cold which suits him just fine. But when his attempt to find solitude in his private library is thwarted by the strange woman sitting in his chair, their encounter devolves into a battle of wills and ends in a fiery kiss. Unfortunately, his aunt, along with several other houseguests, chooses that moment to enter his private domain and by the end of the night Edward finds himself toasting his engagement to Miss Georgiana Bly.
With no dowry and a family that is barely among the gentry, Georgiana never expected to marry and was content with her books. She’s wholly unprepared to become a duchess and now must spend nearly every moment with the surly duke and his aunt learning as much as she can about her new role. She finds herself surprisingly attracted to the duke and he seems to return that desire, however unwittingly, but as the date of their forced wedding draws nearer, it becomes apparent that connection may not be enough to create a peaceful union.
This book had to grow on me quite a bit. My first impression of the heroine was not a positive one; even if she thought Edward to be a servant, despite evidence to the contrary, her behavior towards him was rather unbearably arrogant and rude. Especially given her own station and her familiarity with people looking down on her, I would’ve expected better and this just made her come off as shrewish. I found the duke’s idiosyncrasies to be achingly relatable and his neurodiverse traits made him interesting and unique, especially in a historical. He had no idea how to communicate effectively with Georgiana, but he kept trying and I loved that. I also came to appreciate Georgiana’s tenacity and her eventual support and understanding of Edward while she also pushed him to grow as a person.
There was clear physical chemistry between Edward and Georgiana, but I loved that they actually worked to learn each other’s love languages and develop a true relationship beyond that physical connection. I liked that these main characters both had issues to overcome individually as well. There was clear influence from Pride and Prejudice here, resulting in an opportunity for Edward to show himself to be quite a good man. The quiet romance between Georgiana’s sister, Elizabeth, and Edward’s best friend, the Earl of Montrose, was quite cute, but I thought Georgiana did let Edward down a bit in this sequence. The writing was rather clunky in places, there were some plot points introduced that went unresolved and a couple of scenes which were a bit over-the-top, but overall, this was an entertaining read with adorably awkward main characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
With no dowry and a family that is barely among the gentry, Georgiana never expected to marry and was content with her books. She’s wholly unprepared to become a duchess and now must spend nearly every moment with the surly duke and his aunt learning as much as she can about her new role. She finds herself surprisingly attracted to the duke and he seems to return that desire, however unwittingly, but as the date of their forced wedding draws nearer, it becomes apparent that connection may not be enough to create a peaceful union.
This book had to grow on me quite a bit. My first impression of the heroine was not a positive one; even if she thought Edward to be a servant, despite evidence to the contrary, her behavior towards him was rather unbearably arrogant and rude. Especially given her own station and her familiarity with people looking down on her, I would’ve expected better and this just made her come off as shrewish. I found the duke’s idiosyncrasies to be achingly relatable and his neurodiverse traits made him interesting and unique, especially in a historical. He had no idea how to communicate effectively with Georgiana, but he kept trying and I loved that. I also came to appreciate Georgiana’s tenacity and her eventual support and understanding of Edward while she also pushed him to grow as a person.
There was clear physical chemistry between Edward and Georgiana, but I loved that they actually worked to learn each other’s love languages and develop a true relationship beyond that physical connection. I liked that these main characters both had issues to overcome individually as well. There was clear influence from Pride and Prejudice here, resulting in an opportunity for Edward to show himself to be quite a good man. The quiet romance between Georgiana’s sister, Elizabeth, and Edward’s best friend, the Earl of Montrose, was quite cute, but I thought Georgiana did let Edward down a bit in this sequence. The writing was rather clunky in places, there were some plot points introduced that went unresolved and a couple of scenes which were a bit over-the-top, but overall, this was an entertaining read with adorably awkward main characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
September 1, 2021
I read this for a historical romance vlog: https://youtu.be/Ja14Oap9rlU
This was entirely my brand of historical romance! Smart, funny, sweet and sexy. Pitched as My Fair Lady meets Pride and Prejudice, which had me intrigued and I can see where they're getting that.
If you enjoy a grumpy, good-hearted hero and smart heroine who gives as good as she gets, this is definitely for you. And I'm pretty sure the hero is meant to be on the autism spectrum as well, which is cool to see. Neither character wanted to get married and the heroine doesn't even know he's the duke when they first meet, but they're caught in a compromising position so she must learn how to be a duchess. And he has to learn how to let people in and express affection. This was wonderful and I loved it! I received a copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
This was entirely my brand of historical romance! Smart, funny, sweet and sexy. Pitched as My Fair Lady meets Pride and Prejudice, which had me intrigued and I can see where they're getting that.
If you enjoy a grumpy, good-hearted hero and smart heroine who gives as good as she gets, this is definitely for you. And I'm pretty sure the hero is meant to be on the autism spectrum as well, which is cool to see. Neither character wanted to get married and the heroine doesn't even know he's the duke when they first meet, but they're caught in a compromising position so she must learn how to be a duchess. And he has to learn how to let people in and express affection. This was wonderful and I loved it! I received a copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
March 24, 2021
This book started off great, I loved the meet cute between the two characters and how they got themselves into their situation. After they announced their engagement everything went downhill. This book was truly so boring. Nothing happened. Also these characters are neither a spinster or a rake? Who came up with that title? Edward is extremely anti social and Georgina is just a young wallflower.
April 5, 2022
Kararsız kaldığım bir kitap oldu. Kötü değildi. Hatta ilk yarıyı keyifle okudum. Evlilik sonrası anlatılan hikayeden biraz tereddüte düşürdü. Evet uygunsuz basıldı çiftimiz. Dükümüz asil ve doğru olanı yapıp evliliği duyurur. Sağda solda küçümseme, düşes olmak için eğitimler, soğuk bir adam profili... Yazar her şeyi sunmuş. Bu kısım tamam.
Ama Edward ve soğukluğu... Nasıl desem. Yazarın bunu işleme şekli tuhaf hissettirdi. Edward bir tutku telaşasinde hadi evlenelim der. Ah pardon, daha hızlı evlenelim der. Georgiana'yı gecenin kör vakti bir şapel de evlenmeye ikna eder. Ama endişeye mahal yok. Büyük ve ihtişamlı düğün de kesinlikle olacaktır . İlk gecelerinde yaşanan tutku ve sonrasında ki soğukluk tamam. Ama bir sonra ki birliktelikleri yada tepkileri yazılmamış.
Asıl düğün öncesi bir ay görüşme, sonra evlen. Eeeee... O işi naptınız? Valla ben merak ettim ama aydınlanamadım. Edward ve daha samimi ve sevecen olma çabasının (!) bahsi geçiyor. Sonra Georgiana kendi halinde düşes olma çabasındayken bir anda neden soğuk olduğunu anlatmaya karar veriyor. Hayır Georgiana da ne bir zorlama, ne bir söylem olmadan. Öylece lutfediyor 🤷🏻♀️ Ben öyle hissettim napim😅
Onun dışında Edward ve yenilikçi düşünceleri, Georgiana'nın aklını ve fikirlerini desteklemesini sevdim. Temelde güzel işlense yalnız kalmak, sessiz sakin bir ortam ve kitapları ile başbaşa olmak istemi de güzeldi. Sandalye olayı beni muallakta bıraktı ama olsun. Yine de genel olarak fena değildi. Okuttu kendini.
6-7 aydır ikinci kitabı bekleyen bana bir erteleme şoku da bu kitaptan gelmişti. İkinci aydan çıkacak olan kitabı altıncı aya mı atmışlardı ne 🙄 bitmemiş seriler ağlama sebebim olacak yakında 😅🙈
Ama Edward ve soğukluğu... Nasıl desem. Yazarın bunu işleme şekli tuhaf hissettirdi. Edward bir tutku telaşasinde hadi evlenelim der. Ah pardon, daha hızlı evlenelim der. Georgiana'yı gecenin kör vakti bir şapel de evlenmeye ikna eder. Ama endişeye mahal yok. Büyük ve ihtişamlı düğün de kesinlikle olacaktır . İlk gecelerinde yaşanan tutku ve sonrasında ki soğukluk tamam. Ama bir sonra ki birliktelikleri yada tepkileri yazılmamış.
Asıl düğün öncesi bir ay görüşme, sonra evlen. Eeeee... O işi naptınız? Valla ben merak ettim ama aydınlanamadım. Edward ve daha samimi ve sevecen olma çabasının (!) bahsi geçiyor. Sonra Georgiana kendi halinde düşes olma çabasındayken bir anda neden soğuk olduğunu anlatmaya karar veriyor. Hayır Georgiana da ne bir zorlama, ne bir söylem olmadan. Öylece lutfediyor 🤷🏻♀️ Ben öyle hissettim napim😅
Onun dışında Edward ve yenilikçi düşünceleri, Georgiana'nın aklını ve fikirlerini desteklemesini sevdim. Temelde güzel işlense yalnız kalmak, sessiz sakin bir ortam ve kitapları ile başbaşa olmak istemi de güzeldi. Sandalye olayı beni muallakta bıraktı ama olsun. Yine de genel olarak fena değildi. Okuttu kendini.
6-7 aydır ikinci kitabı bekleyen bana bir erteleme şoku da bu kitaptan gelmişti. İkinci aydan çıkacak olan kitabı altıncı aya mı atmışlardı ne 🙄 bitmemiş seriler ağlama sebebim olacak yakında 😅🙈
February 19, 2021
My favorite stories are those about spinsters and rakes so when I read the blurb for this I pre-ordered it immediately. I was a hesitant to try Eva Devon again, I DNF the The Beast's Bride but I didn't want to dismiss this author completely. Thankfully my optimism was not misplaced! I was drawn into the story right away, both H/h felt genuine in the writing.
Georgiana was self-assured and likeable, having no plans to marry she devotes herself to books. Her love of reading is what lands her in the Duke's private library. After mistaking him for a servant, Edward thinks to scare her off with a kiss only to get caught. Being a man of honor Edward announces their betrothal and Georgiana begrudgingly accepts this. Despite being view as a cold and arrogant man by the Ton Georgiana catches glimpses of kindness and passion in Edward. Edward realized his feelings for Georgiana go deeper than he originally thought and that it not just passion that draws him to her. Edward is worried his new wife will find out his secret.
I really enjoyed this. The chemistry was great and story moved a good pace. It was almost a 5 star, but I felt the ending was bit rushed. I also wish the majority of the story took place on the Duke's estate. Every other historical romance is set in London, I love a glamourous townhome in London but it made the story generic. Why move it to London when you have the striking setting of a castle on The Moors? Also Edward Stanhope, the Duke of Thornfield was not a rake so I'm uncertain as to why the book is titled The Spinster and the Rake. He was no virgin but his rake status is only briefly mentioned once by the h's mother and that is that. It's just me nit picking an over all fabulous read.
Georgiana was self-assured and likeable, having no plans to marry she devotes herself to books. Her love of reading is what lands her in the Duke's private library. After mistaking him for a servant, Edward thinks to scare her off with a kiss only to get caught. Being a man of honor Edward announces their betrothal and Georgiana begrudgingly accepts this. Despite being view as a cold and arrogant man by the Ton Georgiana catches glimpses of kindness and passion in Edward. Edward realized his feelings for Georgiana go deeper than he originally thought and that it not just passion that draws him to her. Edward is worried his new wife will find out his secret.
I really enjoyed this. The chemistry was great and story moved a good pace. It was almost a 5 star, but I felt the ending was bit rushed. I also wish the majority of the story took place on the Duke's estate. Every other historical romance is set in London, I love a glamourous townhome in London but it made the story generic. Why move it to London when you have the striking setting of a castle on The Moors? Also Edward Stanhope, the Duke of Thornfield was not a rake so I'm uncertain as to why the book is titled The Spinster and the Rake. He was no virgin but his rake status is only briefly mentioned once by the h's mother and that is that. It's just me nit picking an over all fabulous read.
June 4, 2022
Utterly Perfect ❤️ Romance at its best!
I loved everything about this story.
✔️ Tropes - Forced Marriage / Bluestocking Spinster Gets the Duke
✔️ Characters that are realistic, perfectly imperfect, and multifaceted.
✔️ Romance that was not rushed or frivolous. Love with total acceptance of each other.
✔️ Chemistry and passion between MCs that adds to the story instead of taking over the plot.
✔️ Horse and Dog characters 🐎🐕
✔️ Secondary characters that add to the story.
✔️ HEA ❤️🦄 🏰
I highly recommend this book!
5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I loved everything about this story.
✔️ Tropes - Forced Marriage / Bluestocking Spinster Gets the Duke
✔️ Characters that are realistic, perfectly imperfect, and multifaceted.
✔️ Romance that was not rushed or frivolous. Love with total acceptance of each other.
✔️ Chemistry and passion between MCs that adds to the story instead of taking over the plot.
✔️ Horse and Dog characters 🐎🐕
✔️ Secondary characters that add to the story.
✔️ HEA ❤️🦄 🏰
I highly recommend this book!
5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
January 26, 2022
4 Stars
This review comes 7 months after I read it.
Quick Review
- I remember liking this book, particularly because "compromised-caught-wedded" is one of my favourite tropes. I liked how the author blended two characters from completely different sets of backgrounds.
- Edward and Georgiana were cute together, him - icy and her - fanciful. The Duchess lessons were fun. Their banter was interesting, and the steam level was mild.
- Also, Edward was NOT a rake. I mean, he barely tolerated people, all he wanted was his chair, his dog, and a drink. He was a bit of a jackass to her but amended his behaviour when instructed, so there is that.
- Georgiana was okay, a little unladylike, but that is to be expected considering her background.
My Recommendation
I wrote this review from memory since the next one is due in Feb 2022, which I wouldn't mind reading.
This review comes 7 months after I read it.
Quick Review
- I remember liking this book, particularly because "compromised-caught-wedded" is one of my favourite tropes. I liked how the author blended two characters from completely different sets of backgrounds.
- Edward and Georgiana were cute together, him - icy and her - fanciful. The Duchess lessons were fun. Their banter was interesting, and the steam level was mild.
- Also, Edward was NOT a rake. I mean, he barely tolerated people, all he wanted was his chair, his dog, and a drink. He was a bit of a jackass to her but amended his behaviour when instructed, so there is that.
- Georgiana was okay, a little unladylike, but that is to be expected considering her background.
My Recommendation
I wrote this review from memory since the next one is due in Feb 2022, which I wouldn't mind reading.
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