Scandalous Again

Book Description

Two exquisite cousins must exchange identities in a scandalous deception.

Madeline de Lacy, the duchess of Magnus, prides herself on being one of the most sensible young women in England, which is why she can't believe that, in a turn of the cards, her noble father has lost his entire estate -- and her! -- to a stranger.

On a mission to salvage her family fortune, she changes places with her cousin and companion, sending the meeker Eleanor to confront the man who had won Madeline's hand. Now, Madeline is free to enter the home of a notorious gambler, and pretends to be meek, humble, and competent with an iron. She is, of course, none of those things; she simply is resolved to win her family's fortune back. Just when she thinks matters can't get worse, she meets Gabriel Ansell, the earl of Campion, and they do. Horribly worse.

Four years ago, Madeline was engaged to Gabriel, and worshipped his arrogant kisses. Now, being forced to marry a man she doesn't know pales in comparison to the ordeal of facing Gabriel again, the man who betrayed her -- Gabriel, the only man she ever loved.

Download Description

In a turn of the cards, Madeline's freedom and fortune are lost to mysterious blackguard Remington Knight. Now only her hated ex-fiance Gabriel can help salvage the family pride. But he has a mission of his own: to win back the only woman he could ever love.

Customer Reviews:

2 and a half stars.......2007-08-03

This was my first ever Christian Dodd book and it was kind of a disappointment. I love the regency period and try to read as many books from this period as I can (Mary Balogh, Stephanie Laurens, Julia Quinn, Liz Carlyle, Gaelen Foley, Jo Beverley etc etc). And I'll admit a few of the books are riddled with certain historical, anachronistic or plot failings, but I'm able to look over them... In this book however, calling the heroine: "Your Grace" was just annoyingly jarring... First of all, she wasn't even a Duchess yet...like what? Were they anticipating her father's death, seeking it even? Secondly, I was distracted by the fact that the heroine was a marchioness and a future duchess not by marriage, but by birth as in: in her family the title passes to the eldest child, male or female (which one might say is a giant leap for feminism in the regency era, not that I buy that- as far as I know this has only happened with the Countess of Mountbatten). It WAS sooooo jarring how they kept referring to this single girl as Your Grace the marchioness of... or the future duchess of as if she's going to marry her father, next thing you know, they'll stop calling her Madeline and start calling her by her title name, Sheridan or when she gets her dukedom, Magnus. And then she's in love with a (lowly) Earl so that when they get married she'd be what? A countess? and lose her dukedom? or her earl will be a duke? or she'll be a duchess, a marchioness AND a countess? or she'll no longer be a duchess/marchioness but her first child will be? or what???? I was sooooooo distracted by all this and it was really hard for me to get through the book which sucked because Christina Dodd does know how to tell a story, it moved quickly and was sexy and well-written... it's just all those jarring plot points...

Everybody called her "your Grace" but she wasn't a duchess yet.......2006-08-27

The heroine is the future duchess of Magnus, supposedly because Queen Elizabeth I decreed the firstborn child would inherit the title regardless of gender. Seems unlikely to me. Also she was always introduced to people as "the Marchioness of Sheridan and the future duchess of Magnus" - which doesn't seem proper, for the future title to be announced like that.

It looked to me like the author was so enamoured of the idea for her heroine to be a duchess that she made up this ridiculous story of Elizabeth I and also says that everybody called her "your Grace" even though she hadn't inherited the title yet (her father was still alive) - but there isn't any explanation of why they would do that.

Other than that, I enjoyed the story and the main characters. The constant mention of the heroine being a duchess (when she wasn't) was quite irritating and spoiled it for me though.

Two very unlikable lead characters made for an unpleasant read........2006-06-19

I was ambivalent about Madeline and actually found myself despising Gabriel.

Some major issues:

1. Very little is explained about how Gabriel and Madeline fell in love. It is described in very vague terms - Madeline saw him, danced with him, and fell in love. We don't even get that much information about how/why Gabriel fell in love with Madeline.

2. The break-up was based on, I thought, a decent premise. Madeline hated gambling, Gabriel knew that, and he gambled anyway. However, when Madeline confronted him at Almack's, why didn't Gabriel explain his actions? Why didn't he ever realize his mistake in gambling when he knew how Madeline felt about it? I think he owed her an apology - not the other way around.

3. Madeline leaves Gabriel, but he never goes after her. Yeah, he's busy with war-related stuff, but in 4 years I think he could have tracked her down and won her back. Especially considering he took her virginity before she left him. I absoluted HATED when he casually asked Maddie if she had had his baby. What a total jerk! If he cared at all for her or a possible baby, he would have stopped at nothing to get her back (or at least make sure she was all right).

4. We never know why these two people should be together. Aside from their amazing sexual chemistry, I never felt like Gabriel and Madeline really knew or loved each other. In fact, I don't remember if Gabriel even said "I love you" before the very end. It just seemed like these two had a love/hate relationship that had no chance of lasting. They were both too immature and selfish.

The sex scenes were explicit and very passionate (the only reason for 2 stars instead of 1). Unfortunately, they couldn't make up for the unlikable characters and rather insipid plot.

The Parent Trap...Regency edition!.......2005-09-02

Madeline de Lacy, the Marchioness of Sheridan and future Duchess of Magnus, has barely set foot back in England after four years when she is blithely told by her disaster-prone papa that he has wagered her in a game of piquet...and lost. Composed and practical -- she's had to be to deal with her father's fiascos for the last seventeen years since her mama's death -- Madeline sets out for London with her companion and cousin, Eleanor, to deal with this would-be fiancé.

However, the two cousins' plans change course when they find out that "the Game of the Century" is about to commence at a country estate. Knowing this is just the sort of rig her father would love to participate in, Madeline is convinced he will show up with a prized family heirloom in tow. Unable to be in two places at the same time, Madeline convinces her cousin Eleanor to switch places with her. Eleanor will go on to London and keep the fiancé at bay, while Madeline will head for the country estate where the Game is being held. Hiring on as a companion to a family heading to the event, Madeline prepares herself for her father's arrival. Unfortunately, all the preparation in the world does not prepare her when she encounters Gabriel Ansell, the Earl of Campion. The man she jilted very publicly four years ago.

Gabriel Ansell has waited four long years for Madeline de Lacy to return to England. Instantly recognizing his former fiancée in her "disguise," Gabriel is determined to find out her reasons for the charade and get her back in his arms where she belongs. Unfortunately, his beloved is as headstrong and stubborn as ever so the Earl decides the best way to keep an eye on her is to help her. Soon the two are up to their ears in intrigue, villains and kisses.

The first in Christina Dodd's Changing Places duet, SCANDALOUS AGAIN is an exhilarating romantic battle of wills. Imagine the best of the classic Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn movies with a dash of The Parent Trap and a dose of Jane Austen (for the historical setting, of course), and you'll get a sense of what a delicious romp this story is. Shaped by her family history, pragmatic Madeline is a woman afraid to let her guard down even to the man she loves. Gabriel is a special hero. Patient and stubborn in his own way, he is a perfect match for Madeline and their unforgettable encounters run the gamut from amusing to poignant.

Note: Eleanor's story is told in ONE KISS FROM YOU.

TheSchemer

Scandalously dull.......2005-05-27

REAL Synopsis.
Madeline de Lacy, Marchioness and future duchess disguises herself as a companion of a wealthy family in order to go to a gambling weekend party, to stop her dad from betting a family heirloom. There she meets with her past in the form of the Lord Campion, the only man she has loved. The entire story takes place in this big gambling event, the romance between the main characters happened during the past, so we are just introduced to it by memories. There is a villain also and some non-memorable characters too.
What is wrong with it: The entire story is insipid; the main characters have no charm. The heroine is one of those "very independent" women that tend to be stubborn and stupid and the lead male is mostly annoying with no quality. It is very difficult to care for them because it feels like the nice love story happened in a part of the book that is missing and now the characters just have contempt for each other.
The dialogues have no wit or wisdom, which makes this novel a very boring and uninteresting reading.

Average customer rating:

Scandalous Love a good buy
Boring
Not Joyce's best.
Scandalous entertainment & one long, enjoyable journey
Sinfully Scandalous

Scandalous Love
Brenda Joyce
Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0061235253

Book Description

Rebelliously independent Lady Nicole Bragg Shelton refuses to be constrained by the stifling rules of Victorian England. And now desire has impelled the beautiful heiress toward a shocking liason with Hadrian Braxton-Lowell, Duke of Clayborough.

Bound by the dictates of honor and duty to another woman, Hadrian is hocked by Nicole's daring conduct, yet entranced by her fiery free spirit and breathtaking sensuality. Though resolved to making the raven-haired beauty his mistress, he will never agree to wed her. But Nicole is no man's plaything. And she is prepared to risk heartache in order to satisfy her wild, uncompromising passion . . . and win the dashing Duke's unwavering loyalty and undying love.

Customer Reviews:

Scandalous Love a good buy.......2007-05-15

I almost didn't get this book and wasn't too enthusiastic when I received it, but I am so glad that I did! I was a little hesitant due to the some of the previous reviews for this book. I don't really like my romance novels to have too many storylines going all at once, and was worried that the story behind Hadrian's mother's past would be uninteresting, but I was pleasantly surprised on how well it was worked into the story. There were some flashbacks, but it still tied into the present storyline. I couldn't put this book down and finished it in one day. It's definitely worth a try. And I will be looking into getting more of Joyce's books.

Boring.......2005-09-04

I don't think this book is good at all. It's kinda boring. It seems to me that Mrs. Joyce wanted to tie the 2 families (Bragg and de Warrens) together.
First of all, I think the heroine, Nicole is a spoilt brat and kinda selfish. I don't have anything to say about the hero since he doesn't seem to try very hard to get the girl at all. She just landed in his lap and his life.
This book is not a keeper. Do not waste your time to read this. If you want a great read, you should try Brenda Joyce's The Masquerade. The plot and the chemistry between the hero and heroine is much more stronger.

Not Joyce's best........2004-08-25

Lady Nicole Shelton jilted her fiancé, ruining her in the eyes of the ton. She's not terribly bothered by her fall from grace because she is sort of a country girl anyway, so she just lives quietly on her family's rural estate. Things are fine until she goes to a ball and dresses like a whore. She's only saved from complete disgrace because the Duke of Clayborough says he thinks she's original.

Hadrian Braxton-Lowell, Duke of Clayborough, is instantly enchanted with Lady Nicole. Mistaking her for a married lady of experience, he makes romantic overtures toward her. After a hot make-out session in the woods, Hadrian learns that Lady Nicole is in fact an innocent spinster. Hadrian has been betrothed since childhood and is nearly ready to marry his fiancée, so he breaks things off with Lady Nicole.

"Scandalous Love" is almost a good book. I like the idea of the story. Nicole is sort of an underdog heroine and I like that. There are some really poignant moments where she is embarrassed and Hadrian helps her or makes her feel better about herself. I like the idea of Hadrian too. He's torn between his growing attraction for Nicole and his genuine affection for his lovely little fiancée. This story's problems, however, outshine its finer points.

Lady Nicole is spunky to the point of annoyance. She constantly puts herself in embarrassing situations, then has to be "saved" by Hadrian. We hear that she wasn't exactly a success as a debutante, but she is easily convinced that the eminently eligible Duke of Clayborough is interested in marrying her--making her seem a bit simple. There's an eye-roll inducing misunderstanding at the end of the story that has her flouncing off in a huff and then demanding a divorce. She's just too much.

Hadrian is a pretty good character. I like that he's honorable and tries to do the right thing. There are some nice moments when he comes to Nicole's rescue. Really, my only problem with him is that he falls for Nicole to begin with. Not that the reasons why he likes her aren't covered, they are, it's just that those reasons make me lose all respect for him. It seems to me that he didn't know what a good thing he had with his fiancée, and I really wish he'd spent a little more time mourning her loss.

In classic Brenda Joyce style, the story never drags but clips along at a brisk pace. There's not much subtlety to the resolution of the situation with Hadrian's fiancée--we all saw that coming--but I do appreciate that the fiancée wasn't vilified, though she was a little too conveniently disposed of. We're shown a passionate romance, but I'm not very enthusiastic about it.

With a lackluster heroine, a more likable "other woman", and a less than suspenseful plot "Scandalous Love" gets two stars--it's not awful, it has potential, but it just didn't do it for me. Brenda Joyce has written some good books, but this isn't one of them.

And I can't end without doing this. I have two quick nitpicks:

First up is title misuse. The daughter of an earl, a marquess, or a duke who has been given the courtesy title of "Lady" like Lady Nicole would only ever be "Lady Nicole Shelton" or "Lady Nicole". Never would she be referred to as "Lady Shelton". Nor would Nicole's mother, or any nineteenth century British noblewoman, be called "the Countess Jane" or anything like that. She would occasionally be referred to as the "Countess of Dragmore" but mostly as "Lady Dragmore", and only ever called "Lady Dragmore" to her face--not to be confused with some common usage in other European countries.

Second is the fact that Nicole's mother was an actress. It's flaunted as a point of pride in the book, as if Nicole were living in contemporary Beverly Hills and not Victorian England. While it was not unprecedented for a peer to marry an actress in Victorian times, the bride would have been shunned by society. It hurts the believability of Nicole's situation when she's ostracized for jilting a fiancé, but her mother is in no way censured for having been an actress. An actress would have been grist for the gossip mills of the Victorian nobility for at least a generation or two and she never would have been accepted anywhere, in fact her children would have been lucky to have entrée into every echelon of polite society.

Scandalous entertainment & one long, enjoyable journey.......2003-11-14

Scandalous Love is a highly intriguing book that provides a long enjoyable journey. There is constant action and not a boring page. It is a complicated love story without villains lurking in the background. As the title intimates, it is great scandalous writing.

Lady Nicole Bragg Shelton is 23, unmarried, and the daughter of wealthy, loving parents. She happily lives at her parents' country estate where she can indulge in her favorite past time - horses. She hates the social swirl of London and avoids it if at all possible. She has reason to stay away from London because she is not exactly accepted by the ton - she has a scandal in her background that has tainted her image. She dislikes London and they dislike her.

Hadrian Braxton-Lowell, the Duke of Clayborough, is a duty bound man who is highly respected. He is betrothed to Elizabeth Martindale, a fragile and gentle lady twelve years his junior. Their marriage was arranged when both were quite young. Since the duke believes he will never love a woman, he does not question such an arrangement and considers it his responsibility. The book frequently refers to Hadrian's impeccable reputation and his choice to always do what is right. However, there is one area of his life that is questionable for such a respectable man. Throughout his long betrothal he has had many mistresses. Since he is a very sensuous man, this impacts his life greatly but it is seen, in this book, as just a trivial, common, and accepted fact of life.

Hadrian and Nicole first meet at a country masquerade ball to which Nicole was surprisingly invited. She attended only to irritate the hostess and dresses outrageously as a gypsy. Hadrian immediately notices Nicole upon his arrival and makes a favorable comment about her costume, therefore earning her favor with others at the ball. Hadrian hates the social scene and rarely attends such events. He is strongly drawn to Nicole, assumes she is a unsatisfied married lady, and imagines she would eagerly accept his invitation for an affair. He invites her to his country home and Nicole, in her immaturity and inexperience, believes Hadrian is interested in courting her. As is typical of her character, she shuns all propriety and visits him the very next day. Nicole is startled when Hadrian makes some very inappropriate moves towards her but she believes that the duke remains truly interested in her. When she shows up at his home a second time, Hadrian rudely turns her away. He has discovered that she in an unmarried lady - an innocent who apparently behaves outrageously, and he is furious. Soon Nicole is informed of Hadrian's imminent marriage and she is equally furious. And so the story continues as Nicole and Hadrian each discover startling things about the other and battle frequently. One thing is for certain - no matter how attracted Hadrian may be to Nicole - a relationship with her is totally out of the question. Nothing will cause him to end his betrothal to Elizabeth. He heads to London to escape Nicole and she follows him. As much as I did not want to believe it, Nicole actually chases after Hadrian. He is the real reason she is there. He is the real reason she finally reappears in society. I actually wanted for Nicole to have a little more respect for herself.

This book, although it contains many of the typical romance scenarios, is actually original in several ways. First - Elizabeth is very lovable. Second - the relationship between Hadrian and his mother is a story unto itself and precious as well. The situations that the leads find themselves in swing from one extreme to another. You don't really know what to expect next. I thoroughly liked Hadrian's character although he could be quite hateful and forceful. But I found Nicole's character to be very annoying and immature. She continually runs after Hadrian but constantly battles him. Hateful heroines are hard for me to accept generally. Nicole takes every opportunity to be alone with Hadrian although he does nothing to encourage it. And once alone, she is very hateful to him. Even when he attempts kindness towards her, she ends up saying something awful to him. Yes, sometimes he deserved it but mostly it was just immaturity on Nicole's part. Her character is the reason I rated this book four stars. Had the heroine had a little more sense, maturity, and ability to control her speech, this easily would have been a five star rating. So if you enjoy such heroines, you will certainly find this a top-notch book.

Regardless, I still found this to be a delicious read. Although I have an issue with the exasperating heroine, this is a book for my keeper shelf. The interaction between Hadrian and Nicole is highly entertaining. The sensual rating is a strong 4.0 out of 5.0 (see More About Me for rating guidelines). Brenda Joyce writes her heroes highly alpha and does it well. She does not let misunderstandings pile up. The interaction, while sometimes irritating, is still upfront and truthful for the most part. This book is part of the Bragg series. However, since the Bragg series is so large, it is hard to determine the order. My best guess of this order is as follows: Innocent Fire, Firestorm, Violet Fire, Dark Fires, Scandalous Love, and then Secrets. There seem to be a couple more featured on Joyce's website but I cannot find where they fit. Nevertheless, I have read several books in this series totally out of order and believe each can be read as a stand-alone book. I truly love Brenda Joyce's writing style and fortunately I have read only four of her books. I have many, many more to savor.

Sinfully Scandalous.......2003-06-25

Brenda Joyce is so skilled at writing novels rich with historical detail and strong characters. Novels that once you have read, you can never forget.

After hiding away in the countryside, due to a scandal, Nicole Shelton is challenged into attending a Masque in honor of the Duke of Clayborough. It is very brave of her to go due to the fact that many people who treated her badly after the scandal will be there.

She is dressed as a gypsy, hair loose, calves exposed and barefoot. She makes an unforgettable impression. Everyone stares but no one says a thing because she catches the eye of the Duke, and he compliments her.

Hadrian Braxton-Lowell is not the typical Duke. He doesn't drink or gamble and society does not interest him. He has had a rough childhood that has forced him to live by his honor and duty. He is indeed drawn to Nicole, and finds he cannot resist her.

She is wild, full of spirit and refreshingly different, and a wonderful heroine. She is nothing like the lady's that he has known. She has had free reign and is more interested in riding horses than in painting watercolors.

She is drawn to Hadrian as well, he is strikingly handsome and seems interested in her. What she doesn't know is the kind of interest he has and that he has been betrothed since childhood to Elizabeth Martindale.

Though they try, they cannot fight their mutual attraction and desire. The pages heat up whenever they are together and you cannot help but long for them to be together as well.

Book Description

With the dazzling blend of romance, humor, and poignant storytelling that has made her one of the world's best-loved authors, Johanna Lindsey presents the passionate Regency-era tale of an earl's daughter who dares to pose as the wife of a deadly mercenary in order to save her former guardian.

Lady Margaret Landor first met Sebastian Townshend as a child, when he caught her peeking into her older sister's engagement ball. Tall, dashing, and charming, Sebastian was one of the most sought-after bachelors in Kent and cut a romantic figure she would not soon forget. Never did she dream that one day she would be living at his family's magnificent estate with Sebastian's father, the eighth Earl of Edgewood, as her guardian--while Sebastian is banished from his family due to the tragic results of a duel.

When life at Edgewood takes a sinister turn with the earl suffering a suspicious number of life-threatening accidents, Margaret wonders if Sebastian's younger brother and his wife have grown impatient to inherit the earldom. Setting out to find the one man she believes can set the situation to rights, she discovers that Sebastian Townshend has forged a new identity for himself on the continent.

Now known as The Raven, a deadly mercenary, notorious for accomplishing any mission no matter how seemingly impossible, he has vowed never to return to England. Not until Margaret meets his outrageous monetary demands does Sebastian agree to return home, reluctantly posing as her husband in order to facilitate his return to society. When he learns she cannot afford to pay his fee, he suggests a scandalous trade.

As Margaret and Sebastian work to uncover the intrigue at his father's estate, a fierce passion blooms that neither of them anticipated and neither can resist. But can Margaret persuade Sebastian to abandon the dark path he believes is his fate and claim the life--and love--he deserves? Breathtaking in scope and wondrously passionate, Marriage Most Scandalous is Johanna Lindsey at her finest.

Download Description

"With the dazzling blend of romance, humor, and poignant storytelling that has made her one of the world's best-loved authors, Johanna Lindsey presents the passionate Regency-era tale of an earl's daughter who dares to pose as the wife of a deadly mercenary in order to save her former guardian. Lady Margaret Landor first met Sebastian Townshend as a child, when he caught her peeking into her older sister's engagement ball. Tall, dashing, and charming, Sebastian was one of the most sought-after bachelors in Kent and cut a romantic figure she would not soon forget. Never did she dream that one day she would be living at his family's magnificent estate with Sebastian's father, the eighth Earl of Edgewood, as her guardian--while Sebastian is banished from his family due to the tragic results of a duel. When life at Edgewood takes a sinister turn with the earl suffering a suspicious number of life-threatening accidents, Margaret wonders if Sebastian's younger brother and his wife have grown impatient to inherit the earldom. Setting out to find the one man she believes can set the situation to rights, she discovers that Sebastian Townshend has forged a new identity for himself on the continent. Now known as The Raven, a deadly mercenary, notorious for accomplishing any mission no matter how seemingly impossible, he has vowed never to return to England. Not until Margaret meets his outrageous monetary demands does Sebastian agree to return home, reluctantly posing as her husband in order to facilitate his return to society. When he learns she cannot afford to pay his fee, he suggests a scandalous trade. As Margaret and Sebastian work to uncover the intrigue at his father's estate, a fierce passion blooms that neither of them anticipated and neither can resist. But can Margaret persuade Sebastian to abandon the dark path he believes is his fate and claim the life--and love--he deserves? Breathtaking in scope and wondrously passionate, Marriage Most Scandalous is Johanna Lindsey at her finest. "

Customer Reviews:

A B+ Lindsey novel (A--).......2007-03-18

I really enjoyed Sebastian. He's the best thing about the book, though I enjoyed Margaret as well. Margaret seemed contemporary, which was probably why I could relate to her. I loved her innocence, her courage, nurturing components of her personality, and her compassion for not only the Townshends, but every other character in the story. But Sebastian is the character that makes this story a compelling read. That being said, the story's premise is incredibly lame. But the convoluted mystery - a real stretch - does not detract from the human dignity of the secondary characters Douglas and Abbie, and the magnitude of the shattered family that is the Townshends. Anyone who has experienced dysfunction within family will be able to relate to the tragedy of this story.

I also loved the way Lindsey wove the easy wealth of the upper class families into the setting. I fell into the fascinating world. I felt like Margaret both had a circle of friends, a comfortable social circle, and yet still had a certain distance from the social expectations of her class - a loner who didn't cultivate easy friendships.

For some reason, I found the idea that Margaret is willing to have pre-marital sex very believable, whereas, in another Lindsey Recency romance, The Heir, I didn't buy it at all. I think it is because Margaret is believably independently wealthy, and believably naive about societies tolerance of scandal. Whereas in The Heir, Duncan takes Sabrina's virginity in a way that majorly detracts from the story. It didn't seem in character for either one of them to go so far, given the times depicted in the story. Duncan seemed too gentlemanly to compromise Sabrina in such a way, while in this book, -Sebastian seems agonizingly torn between two personalities, and willing to throw his reputation overboard in compromising Margaret's integrity.

Did I say I loved Sebastian? The scenes with his father are riveting. The idea that The Raven wouldn't be able to lie to his father; the fact that his father can get his attention just by saying his name - these scenes 'showed' Sebastian to be a nobleman who was twisted, hurt, and hardened by the circumstances that drove him from his home and family, but at bottom a nobleman nonetheless. You root for his reconciliation more than you root for him to hook up with Margaret (because that seems like such a fore-gone conclusion).

One note about Lindsey's style of writing. It makes me crazy that Lindsey does so much 'telling' in her books. She tells you what you're supposed to think about the characters, instead of letting you figure it out for yourself. But that is the genre. So if you can accept that, then you have an enjoyable story here.

Zero stars -- don't waste your money.......2007-01-06

I enjoy romance novels, and understand that their plots can be somewhat farfetched at times, but this was ridiculous. The final climax and revelations of her idiotically convoluted plot were as unrewarding as they were cynical in their ridicule of the gullibility of the reader. This plot was not Swiss cheese -- it was so full of holes it could double as a fish net. Certainly not sufficient reward for plowing through almost 400 pages, only a few enjoyable moments to the good. And the Publisher's Weekly review above was right that "the protagonists are really modern characters in Regency guise." The tone went beyond 'tongue-in-cheek' to cynical. This was my first Lindsey novel, and it will certainly be my last.

Really Enjoyed this Book.......2006-12-31

This is my third Johanna Lindsey book and after being disappointed by "The Heir" I have to say I couldn't put this one down. I really liked our heroine Meg, and will be having lovely dreams about our hero, Sebastian. I actually found myself laughing out loud, smiling widely to myself, and at the end I gasped and cried. Although the mystery was great, I found parts of it a little unbelievable. I did enjoy the romantic parts so much I found myself rereading them when I was finished. My only complaint would be that I find Ms. Lindsey's stories, while very entertaining, don't have enough romance/love scenes for me. I want more dirt!

Where was the romance????.......2006-10-01

This was a good and well written story. The plot was intricate yet not overly complicated. But where was the romance????????????????

I really wanted to like Sebastian and Margaret, and I did. However there really wasn't any romance, chemistry, or tenderness in this story at all.

And the love scenes were so bland and lacking. I was shocked and very disappointed. What has happened to Johanna Lindsey????

I gave the story three stars because it was very well written mystery....

Intriguing and "sigh" worthy. .......2006-09-30

This was the JL book I had ever read and I was not dissapointed. Needless to say, I picked it up and started reading it and then could not put it down until I was at the last page. I admit, I was a bit unsure at first at reading the summary and opening to a few random pages that didn't seem to catch my interest, but I'm a firm believer that you are never to judge a book by its cover (nor a bad review!) because if its been printed and in your hand, you owe it justice to read it to find out for yourself. I love books, its a passion of mine so its no surprise that I thought the book was delicious, as I honestly can say I have never read a 'bad' book.

Now, it does take a few chapters to get into an interesting bit, the beginning is a bit bland to use a word. But once the romance starts to kindle, you won't be able to put it down until you know what happens next.

Let's be honest, we don't read these books because of how they end, we KNOW how they are going to end. The guy always gets his girl and there is always some struggle before that, but its the HOW that makes the books worth reading, we all want that romance for ourselves and we want diversity in how romance can be.

Average customer rating:

I really didn't want to like this hero
Oh, please!
Loved it!!
Relax and enjoy this wonderful romance (get the tissue box ready)
Fun and sexy book

Love With a Scandalous Lord
Lorraine Heath
Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0380817438
Release Date: 2003-05-27

Book Description

For as long as she can remember, Lydia Westland has dreamed of glittering London society. Finding herself at last in England, she is determined to make the most of this opportunity. Clutching her copy of 'Blunders in Behaviour Corrected' she sets forth to find a suitably titled husband. But what she finds instead is Rhys Rhodes, a second son with a past that is anything but glittering. To Rhys, Lydia is everything he has lost – innocence, laughter, joy – and everything he cannot have.

Customer Reviews:

I really didn't want to like this hero.......2007-08-15

This is a story of two unlikely people falling in love -at first sight. A twenty year old Texas beauty and a scandalous Marquis. She knows what it is to be loved all of her life and he has never (well almost) known love. So because of his 'dark' reputation and because he loves her so much, the Marquis decides to sacrifice himself for love and do everything to insure that she finds someone else to marry. Of course she sets out to do the exact opposite and try to convince him that she loves him unconditionally -secrets and all.

The hero is really a pathetic character, going on and on...and on about how he doesn't deserve the heroine's love. The heroine on the other hand refuses to give up despite the hero's callus treatment. I just couldn't believe the hero's reasoning for protecting the heroine from himself. With that said -why did I give it 4 stars? Simple, the hero just grew on me. He was just so vulnerable and sad (no alpha male here) and wore his heart on his sleeve. Boy! He REALLY needed a HUG! Its nice to sometimes read about a hero willing to give up everything -and I mean everything- for the woman he loves.

Although slightly annoying at times, this book totally tapped into my 'sappy' side. Major AWWWWWW factor for me at the end.

Oh, please!.......2007-05-30

Not a terrible book, but I can summarize it in a few sentences. Him: Ooh, I worked as a male prostitute to support myself, ooh, I'm so guilty that I don't deserve to be loved, Ooh, I'll make it up to the world by letting everyone treat me badly & never fighting back. Her: I'm unworldy, innocent and sweet, but I will immediately turn into a sexual vixen when I meet Mr. Guilty, stand with him against the world, and help him realize that everyone doesn't hate him as much as he thinks. Puh-lease! Intersperse some sweet and tender sex scenes, an unbelievable ending in which everyone forgives him for his past and it turns out all these women who "hated" him really loved him the whole time and that pretty much wraps it up. It's a good read, but a silly plot and the man is such a doormat that you just want to whack him with a stick sometimes!

Loved it!!.......2007-01-03

Another in Lorraine Heath series that I though was particularly touching. The heroine is charming, innocent, and funny. The hero is darkly troubled, a bit too serious, and far from innocent. The ending was a great one.

Relax and enjoy this wonderful romance (get the tissue box ready).......2006-09-06

One of my all time favorite writers is Lorraine Heath. When it comes to creating the perfect heroes there is no one like her. The love story is extremely tender and touching. The intimacy is pure and beautiful. Rhys knows that his fate is sealed, and yet he treasures every moment with Lydia in such a way that you almost want to weep. The last quarter of the book is quite intense. The ultimate resolution is as expected. Lydia grows up and realizes that there are far more important things in life then social status and acceptance. I highly recommend reading Lorraine's books in order.

Fun and sexy book.......2006-01-26

I liked this hero a lot although Lydia was a bit shallow. She grows up at the end and the last chapters brought tears to my eyes. This is true love and how nice to read about a later period in England than just your typical regency which has been done to death.

Average customer rating:

Lots of fun!
Three, maybe three & 1/2 stars
Clever and Sweet Regency Romance
Good - but a little ligher than I prefer!
It Was OK...Not a Keeper

Her Scandalous Affair
Candice Hern
Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0060565160
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Book Description

After this decree from his grandmother,Richard, Viscount Mallory, goes insearch of the long-lost family heirloom. Imagine his surprise when he spots the exquisite heart-shaped ruby brooch on the bosom of the equally exquisite Lady Isabel Weymouth! Could this popular young socialite actually be a jewel thief?

Richard is determined that the brooch be returned to his family. So when an opportunity presents itself, he pilfers the jewel from the lady's bedroom, but is stunned when she steals it back the very next day! Clearly the enchanting Isabel is a more formidable opponent than he imagined, and the former soldier finds himself battling wits and wills with the captivating temptress. Passion ignites between them as the competition heats up, and suddenly there is more than a ruby brooch at stake in this game of hearts.

Customer Reviews:

Lots of fun!.......2007-04-16

This was such a fun book. The hero and the heroine stealing a brooch back and forth between them kept the storyline propelling forward, learning more about each character as we went, and both characters were fully fleshed out.

One of the things that most impressed me about this book was the way that Hern wrote her heroine, Isabel. Isabel is trying to marry a wealthy man -- and neither she nor the hero consider that something to apologize for. She has good reasons, and the ultimate choice to stay with the hero is very sweet, and earned. This book has definitely made Candice Hern one of my authors to look for.

Three, maybe three & 1/2 stars.......2005-02-21

I got tired of the back-and-forth thievery about the same time that Richard did, so the "real" theft was welcome. One of the best parts of this book was the story behind the missing brooch. It was almost better than the main romance.

Isabel is mercenary, but part of that is a desire to care for her relatives. And she's one smart cookie. So much so that Richard has to admire her abilities to get one over on him. Richards's a lovely hero, but he doesn't really stand out from the crowd of fine romantic heroes.

This isn't Hern's finest work, but it is a pleasant diversion, and I'm not sorry I bought it. She always puts the reader into the period.

Clever and Sweet Regency Romance.......2005-01-18

Now that the war was over, Richard, Viscount Mallory had finally come home to find his aged grandfather ailing with very little time left. Cornered by his grandmother, she demanded that he go and recover the Mallory heart, an exquisite heart shaped ruby brooch Mallory family heirloom that had been missing for the last fifty years, so that his grandfather could die happy over it's return. It had been spotted at a recent ton affair and he was to travel to London and retrieve it by whatever means possible. It had to be fate, for the moment he'd entered the ballroom he discovered the brooch, and it was pinned upon the bosom of the very beautiful Lady Isabel Weymouth! Managing to include himself in one of her `at homes' he slipped out of the drawing room to discover that all was not as it appeared as he searched for the lady's brooch. Finding the other rooms stripped of any treasures, clearly, her financial condition was not as she attempted to portray - could she possibly be a jewel thief?

Lady Isabel, was a darling of the ton, and desperately in need of securing for herself a wealthy husband. Although, she was very much aware of the Major Lord Mallory, she new that the Earldom he was to inherit was in financial difficulty, and desperately needing cash to help her family, she simply had to marry for money. In keeping up appearances, she had borrowed her grandmother's magnificent brooch that she'd known was hidden in a secret drawer in grandmothers jewelry box. She had planned on returning it the following day, yet discovering it missing, Isabel knew exactly who had stolen it. Isabel was determined to steal it back and as the two became embroiled in a game of one-up-man-ship in stealing it back from one another the games began to heat up, as did their undeniable passion.

*** This was a delightful romance as the protagonists each devised clever ways of stealing the brooch from one another. The Latin inscription of "True love knows but one" proved to be a very prophetic statement as Isabel discovered that all the wealth she desperately needed and was offered by another was just not enough when her heart and passions were lost to another. Other than the brooch, there wasn't a tremendous amount of intrigue and the inclusion of a mysterious woman whom Richard's brother had fought and lost a duel over was so insignificant to the story that I truly wondered why it was included at all. The main mystery of how the brooch came to be held by Isabel's grandmother was appealing and the protagonists' efforts to keep it from one anther entertaining. Although not a keeper, it deservedly scores well as a worthy read. ---- Marilyn, for www.romancedesigns.com ---

Good - but a little ligher than I prefer!.......2005-01-02

After reading a couple of Coulter books I guess I feel that books like this one are a little light for my complete satisfaction! Nicholas and Isabel just needed a little more development for my taste - at least if I am going to give it a 5 star rating. This one proabably falls somewhere between a 3 & 4 for me - giving it the higher only because I might be more critical right now because I just read some really amazing books. I enjoyed the plot of this book and found the romance to be credible it just needed a little more of something! Actually one of the best most romantic parts was why the ruby broach was given to M and how the love between these old soles never ended. Hopefully the love between Nicholas and Isabel will be that strong and last as long.

It Was OK...Not a Keeper.......2004-12-31

A very light read. The beginning was fun with Richard and Isabel matching wits with one another, trying to out-do each other with their thievery. But then by the middle it started to slow down and I wasn't so involved any more. I found the love scenes to be one dimensional and too simple. I felt no heat whatsoever. The story just dragged on and on, I could even jump three paragraphs or a whole page ahead and not miss anything. I lost all interest in all of the characters. Not a keeper, IMO. For a great read, try her series starting with 'Once a Dreamer'.

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Howatch does it again!
Excellent, powerful themes
May-December Affair Brilliantly Told!
Honest to God, truthful, and a good read
A theological beach novel

Scandalous Risks
Susan Howatch
Manufacturer: Knopf
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 039458886X
Release Date: 1990-10-17

Book Description

In the overheated 1960s in the English town of Starbridge, young Venetia Flaxton edges closer to a love affair with Neville Aysgarth, who is Dean of the Cathedral and old enough to be her father. His hidden emotional past and her moral conflict in the present lead them deeper and deeper into the mysteries of the human heart and soul.

From the Paperback edition.

Customer Reviews:

Howatch does it again!.......2001-12-06

In the fourth of the Starbridge books Howatch does it again - she proves her amazing versatility as a writer of fiction by giving us a completely new character in a completely new voice and a completely new style. It never ceases to amaze me how Howatch, in each case, actually BECOMES the narrator! Whereas the elderly churchman Jon Darrow of Glamorous Powers (for instance) speaks in a rather conservative, upper class voice, Venetia is racy, witty, full of verve and charm, and it is easy to understand why poor Neville is completely besotted with her.
In this book we have the only female narrator in the entire series, and the only non-clergyman. Venetia is a rebellious society woman who discovers a completely new dimension to herself when she falls in love with her dear "Mr Dean" - Neville Ayesgarth, the married Dean of Starbridge Cathedral. He too is carried away and it is quite alarming how both of they live in a cloud of self-deception as to the nature of their relationship... and more than once while reading this book the Clinton-Lewinsky affair came to my mind - especially when the question arises as to whether or not they have technically committed adultery.

This story takes place in the 60's, and is the first in the second trilogy; the first trilogy was set in the 30's and 40's so now the three major protagonists of those books are a greta deal older. Mr Dean could be Venetia's father, and in fact his daughter is her best friend, which only adds to the delusion (mostly HIS) that the relationship is mainly spiritual in nature.

I feel that of all the Starbridge books, this one works as well as a stand-alone as part of a series, and for anyone who would like a taste of post-saga Howatch but is not quite decided whether or not to plunge into an entire six-book series, I would recommend this one. Another great book for our online discussion group!

Excellent, powerful themes.......2001-01-18

Though one need not be religious to enjoy Susan Howatch's work, a delight of her C of E series is that she is equal in gifts as novelist, theologian (with a Jungian flavour), and scholar. The integration of certain powerful themes is seamless with the "romance" plot, and thus painless for those without religious interests, yet, for those who have studied the spiritual life, the classic conflicts between faith and behaviour are placed into clear focus.

Neville Aysgarth is a classic study in self-deception - one of genuine faith, but blinded both by perceived personal needs and the desire to defend a Liberal Modernism credo. Susan Howatch brilliantly sets forth, in this character, how such conflict can not only justify behaviour one would insist was immoral with a clear vision, but glorify it by linking it to a supposed "higher ideal" which differs from the norm. The non-religious who thrive on characterisation will have ample food for thought in the depiction of Aysgarth's bizarre marriage.

Venetia, young, intelligent, and restless, provides the themes of the intense drives to find spiritual and sexual fulfillment. Though the reader is tempted to see from the beginning that Venetia's affair with Aysgarth is doomed to be a catastrophe, there is more to this than "love is blind" cliches. Aysgarth's intense personality, and brilliant (if flawed) integration of his self-deception with theological concepts, makes it both understandable and tragic that Venetia can both find the affair exciting and be led to believe that certain of its aspects are indicative of an extraordinary religious commitment and morality on Aysgarth's part.

The characters of Charles and Lyle Ashworth, the main characters in Glittering Images, are presented now as the long-married, wise "Rev and Mrs Bishop." Their involvement in the plot has a special dimension, showing that wise, considerate, mature advice, given with the best of intentions, often not only fails to divert misery but increases its impact.

This book's providing an engrossing tale (and, for all its bizarre turns, actually one less melodramatic than some others of the series) is enhanced by its giving one the food for thought that distinguishes the entire series.

May-December Affair Brilliantly Told!.......2001-01-05

Here I had just settled into the idea that the rest ofHowatch's "Church" books were going to be just 4 star reads,when I read this one, her very best. Told from the point of view ofVenetia, a 26 year old daughter of the aristocracy, we see her affairunfold with 60 year old Neville Aysgarth, the narrator of the lastbook, "Ultimate Prizes." This is a very different book fromthe other three. First, we have the feminine "I" tellingthe story whereas before it has always been a male minister or monk ofthe Anglican Church. Second, the time period shifts to the 1960s,when all bets on morality were temporarily off and were argued as suchamong Anglican theologians. One real-life book becomes the focus fordoing what you want as long as you do it with love, per a leadingAnglican bishop of the day...I was a basket case by the end of thisbook and that is the ultimate compliment. Had you given me thepremise of the book as I've written above, I doubt I would have evenread it, wondering why I'd want to read about a 26 year old and a 60year old. I'm so glad I'd made the commitment to read the whole seriesbecause this is one of the best novels I've ever read. Since thisbook packs an emotional wallop that far exceeds the first three booksin the series, and since it is the only one involving a femalenarrator, I can't help but wonder if some or all of it happened toHowatch herself.

Honest to God, truthful, and a good read.......2000-08-31

1963. Venetia Flaxton, twentysomething, from an agnostic aristocratic family has a passionate adulterous affair with Neville Asygarth, who is now Dean of Sarbridge Cathederal (In 'Ultimate Prizes' he was Archdeacon of Starbridge). Both use Robinson's 'Honest to God' has an excuse, that all are called to 'love' but this 'love' has serious repucussions that damage Asygarth's family even further, sends Venetia into a spiral of depression and addiction, and rocks the immediate Cathederal community.

It is also interesting to see the regulars again, albeit twenty years older. Charles Ashworth is now Bishop of Starbridge, and his two sons have interesting 'psyches' as Jon Darrow would put it. Jon Darrow himself is a retired 'hermit' following the death of his wife, his son Nicholas is psychic himself, but is also highly immature. The multi-faced expolation of the characters and their '3-D descrpitions of their personalities makes you eel that you know them, and you soon find yourself rooting for various individuals and even feel compassion and concern for those you dislike

A theological beach novel.......2000-08-30

Like all the books in Susan Howatch's Church of England series, "Scandalous Risks" has a page-turning plot and a good dose of romance and intrigue, while also being an exploration of 20th-century Anglican theology and spirituality. In this novel, the sexual tension is between a young woman and a married Anglican priest, and theologically, it's about a certain type of liberal theology (specifically, the 1960s book "Honest to God" by Bishop John Robinson) and its potential for misuse.

The six books in the series, plus "The Wonder Worker," which might as well be part of the series, move through the 20th century and have overlapping characters, but there's no need to read them in order. My favorites are this one, "Glamorous Powers," and "Absolute Truths."

Scandalous Weddings: Somthing Old, Something New, Something Scandalous-Could It Be True? (Scandalous Weddings)

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reader opinions vary greatly on this one
Not crazy about the title of the book
The Becnel story alone makes it worth the price!
Each author combines talent to make a book that brings joy!
What a Treat!

Scandalous Weddings: Somthing Old, Something New, Something Scandalous-Could It Be True? (Scandalous Weddings)
Brenda Joyce , Jill Jones , Barbara Dawson Smith , and Rexanne Becnel
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0312966571

Amazon.com

Lost garters and cases of warm champagne pale as prenuptial disasters when compared to the pandemonium described in this boisterous collection by four popular authors. Brenda Joyce brings us "The Light of Day," the tale of a young woman from a wealthy family who prefers to run away with the jewel thief plundering her family's safe than to marry the immanently suitable man her parents have arranged for her. Pierce Braxton finds the jewel of his heart in Annabelle Boothe, and she discovers that he's the man for her.

In "The Love Match," Rexanne Becnel introduces us to Jinx Benchley, who is as determined to stop her brother from eloping to Gretna Green with Lady Alice Stirling as is Alice's brother, Harrison, the Marquis of Hartley. Harrison fears his sister's money is the true attraction and plans to challenge Colin Benchley to a duel. His reputation as the "murdering marquis" sends Jinx on a headlong, cross-country chase to locate her brother and warn him of the danger. Hard on her heels is Lord Hartley, who is convinced that Jinx is in cahoots with her brother. Refusing to let each other of their sight because of their utter lack of trust for each other, Jinx and Harrison find themselves fighting the mystifying lure of forbidden passion.

"A Weddin' or a Hangin'" by Jill Jones takes us to present-day Scotland where clan politics and feuds still run deep. Meredith Macrae, visiting from her North Carolina home after inheriting property from her late uncle, the former Macrae clan chieftain, discovers that the Sinclair of the Clan Sinclair is not possessed of horns and a tail as her clansmen would have her believe. Instead, Ian Sinclair is just a man struggling to maintain Duneagan, his family's ancestral castle, while continuing to produce a profit from the distilling of Scotland's finest single-malt scotch and mediating disputes among his clansmen who relish a good fight as much as a good draught. Brought together both by mutual attraction transcending centuries-old hostilities and to fight against commercial interests seeking to destroy the village for tourism's sake, Meredith and Ian find that a weddin' can overcome even the most bitter of enmity.

Barbara Dawson Smith's "Beauty and the Brute" delivers readers to the Scottish Highlands, as well, but in the year 1827. Stranded in a blizzard with her aging maid and her coachman, who broke his ankle when their carriage skidded into a ditch, Lady Helen Jeffries is confronted by a hulking beast of a man. Living up to his name, Alexander the MacBrut, laird of the Clan MacBrut, is unable to resist the charms of the lovely English sprite he rescues from the storm. Not only does he defrost her frozen toes and fingers, the MacBrut thaws Lady Helen's maidenly shyness. Caught in flagrante delicto by none other than Helen's father, the Marquess of Hathaway, Alexander finds himself forced into marriage with an English bride. Alexander believes that, like his own mother, Helen won't be able to adapt to the harsh Highland winters or her harsh Highland husband and will leave him--and the baby she is expecting. But Helen's sunny disposition and gentle persistence succeed in thawing his resistance, forever binding together the beauty and her brute. Scandalous Weddings entices the reader to join in the whirlwind courtships with a cup of hot tea and a few undisturbed hours! --Alison Trinkle

Book Description

You're invited to four unforgettable weddings-each with a scandal that would make a bride blush!In this delightfully wicked collection, four bestselling authors depict weddings at their most scandalous-and tying the knot has never been so outrageous. Steamy, sensuous, and more delicious than a piece of wedding cake, Scandalous Weddings is the romantic event of the season!

Customer Reviews:

reader opinions vary greatly on this one.......2004-07-01

I'd say 2 were worth reading and 2 were not. I liked Brenda Joyce's story, the longest in the book. It started rather ho-hum, but I soon became very interested in the characters. It was unusual to have an unrepentant thief as the hero, and I continually asked myself how the author was going to come through with the recquisite happy ending. The pleasant surprise at the end was well worth the read, and the hero & heroine are both striking. The story best supports the "Scandalous Weddings" title. I didn't expect to like it, but it definitely grew on me.

Rexanne Becnel's entry also supports the uniting theme well and is a fun late Rengency romp. The hero is excellent and there are enough laughs to keep it fun. This one too gets high marks. Her curses cracked me up, and the role reversal at the end is delightful.

The last 2 stories, I found dull and dreary. Jones' story featured vague, stereotypical characters with little charisma, a cliched and utterly predictable plot, and a healthy dose of unbelieveability. Not very scandalous either. I can't even give it one star.

Smith's attempt is a poor execution of Beauty & the Beast. The hero is mildly intereesting, but is close to emotionally abusive to her. He trusts her not at all. The heroine has little common sense. Heavens, she just throws herself into a stranger's bed! The plot is only slightly less predictable than Jones' and ends on an unbelieveable and completely sudden note as though the author decided she'd written enough and just ended it as quickly as possible with no thought to the continuity of plot or characterization.

My recommendation: Read the first two and skip the last two.

Not crazy about the title of the book.......2002-11-22

The Rexanne Becnel story, LOVE MATCH, is the best of the four. The hero's sister elopes with the heroine's brother. Nice, quick read, good development of the characters.
BEAUTY AND THE BRUTE by Barbara D. Smith was the next best, but I felt the story went on too long and the heroine had the patience of a saint. A WEDDIN' OR A HANGIN' by Jill Jones was marginal because I felt that the feuding between the clans wasn't believeable. I did not like Brenda Joyce's story, IN THE LIGHT OF DAY, at all.

The Becnel story alone makes it worth the price!.......1999-01-06

Very entertaining and romantic

Each author combines talent to make a book that brings joy!.......1999-01-05

Bravo! I set an all time record for completing a paperback. This is a wonderful book for those of us who feel good when we read romance. This book will leave you wanting to read more titles from the authors. I strongly recommend this book.

What a Treat!.......1998-12-29

Scandalous Weddings is a terrific anthology with four really good and very different stories. Jill Jones (whose stories are always Five Star) outdoes herself. Barbara Dawson Smith shines. These are the stories you read that leave you with a little glow--and a sassy smirk. Delightful!

Slightly Wicked and Slightly Scandalous (Exclusive 2 in 1 Edition)

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Slightly Wicked and Slightly Scandalous (Exclusive 2 in 1 Edition)
Mary Balogh
Manufacturer: Doubleday
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover