Swoon Thursday (#292): The Governess Game by Tessa Dare

- From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering

- Try to make the swoon excerpt 140 characters (or less), if you are going to tweet about it. Use the hashtag #YABOUND when tweeting

This week, my swoon is from The Governess Game by Tessa Dare!

"I don't want you to kiss me," she said, "now that I've thought it through."

[...]

"I think..." She wet her lips. "I think I'd rather kiss you."

And before Chase could begin to reckon with the shock of those words, she did.

[...]

Her kiss became his. A series of light, teasing brushes of his mouth against hers. He tasted her upper lip, then lower. And then he nudged her lips apart and swept his tongue between them.

Oh. Oh, dear.

Alex was startled by the intrusion, reeling with sensations, but she didn't dare pull away.

To the contrary. She dared to move closer.

This was her first kiss.

- eARC, 28%

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I'm still reading this one but I couldn't pass on the opportunity to share Alex's first kiss (also Alex/Chase's first kiss). I cut out some parts for length and clarity. I love this scene!

Swoon Thursday (#236): The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare

- From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering

- Try to make the swoon excerpt 140 characters (or less), if you are going to tweet about it. Use the hashtag #YABOUND when tweeting

This week, my swoon is from The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare!

"You're mine," he said hoarsely, lifting his head and staring deep into her eyes, willing her to believe. "If you leave, I will follow. Do you hear me. I will follow and find you and cart you home."

Lightning flashed, slicing through the dark. For the briefest of moments, everything was bright and clear. The alley around them, the sky above. The space between her body and his, and every emotion she wore so bravely on her face.

Just before they lost the moment to darkness, he crushed his mouth to hers, in a desperate kiss.

Then the force of thunder exploded through him, splitting him into a thousand pieces - some of which were surely driven into her, embedded as deeply as the metal shards that lodged beneath his scarred flesh. Impossible to retrieve.

Yes, she was his. But no bits of him were hers now, too.

- eARC, 73%

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Read my review of The Duchess Deal

I looooooooove this scene. Ash and Emma are standing outside in the middle of a storm, so everything seems so much more dramatic. Plus, it is their first real kiss in a long time! (Kissing wasn't allowed according to Ash's rules, though other things... were.)

Review: The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare

The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare

Book One of the Girl Meets Duke series

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: August 22, 2017

Rating: 4 stars

Source: eARC from Edelweiss

Summary (from Goodreads):

When girl meets Duke, their marriage breaks all the rules… 

Since his return from war, the Duke of Ashbury’s to-do list has been short and anything but sweet: brooding, glowering, menacing London ne’er-do-wells by night. Now there’s a new item on the list. He needs an heir—which means he needs a wife. When Emma Gladstone, a vicar’s daughter turned seamstress, appears in his library wearing a wedding gown, he decides on the spot that she’ll do.

His terms are simple:

- They will be husband and wife by night only.

- No lights, no kissing. 

- No questions about his battle scars.

- Last, and most importantly… Once she’s pregnant with his heir, they need never share a bed again.

But Emma is no pushover. She has a few rules of her own:

- They will have dinner together every evening.

- With conversation.

- And unlimited teasing.

- Last, and most importantly… Once she’s seen the man beneath the scars, he can’t stop her from falling in love…

What I Liked:

You know those readers who have this author they love and they seem to LOOOOOOVE everything the author writes? And in your head you're like, chill, we know you're a huge fangirl/fanboy, you would never dislike anything that author wrote. Yeah, sometimes I catch myself rolling my eyes at people like that (you know, when you're like okay Jan we already know you're going to love the book, we get it). That is terrible of me and I should really stop that because I AM ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE. When it comes to Tessa Dare? I have yet to read a book of hers that I didn't absolutely love (or at the very least, adore). Granted, this is only the seventh book of hers that I've read... well, I guess that's a lot. She has written twenty, if I've counted correctly. Anyway. The lowest rating I've given any of those seven books is four stars and that is pretty much the definition of fangirling. I love this author's books. I can't help it. I know I'm not alone. Please don't judge me!

The Duchess Deal is book one of a brand-new, unconnected series by Tessa Dare. The Duke of Ashbury came back from war horribly scarred, due to a rocket blowing up in his face. It destroyed much of one side of his face, and all down that side of his body. His engagement to a lady of good societal status has been broken. His estate is not in the best shape, due to him being gone at war for so long, and then in recovery when coming back from the war. Ashbury needs a wife, and a desperate one, at that. What does he do when Emma Gladstone, seamstress of the wedding dress that Ashbury's ex-fiancee was to wear? Well, he marries her, the seamstress, who was in need of a bit of money. Emma isn't repulsed by the Duke's scars - if anything, she is intrigued by them. She agrees to marry him and to follow his terms. She'll get pregnant and move into the country house, where she'll give birth and raise the child. No affection, no kissing, no lights on when they have relations. But both of them will discover that falling in love isn't something they can control, and all of Ash's rules won't stop love.

I don't even know how to write this review! This book was fabulous - can I leave it at that and call it a day? This book made me smile, giggle, swoon, fan myself, and swoon all over again. I adore marriage of convenience stories, and this one did not disappoint. Of course it didn't! Tessa Dare never disappoints. (Unrepentant fangirl here.)

I felt like this book was more about Ash than it was about Emma, though the story was told from both of their POVs and both of them had huge stakes and backstories and roles in this book (not just one or the other). The author spends a lot of time characterizing and perfecting Ash's personality, demeanor, self-loathing... trust me, you'll want to hug this guy over and over, while reading this book. Ash seems like a moody, grouchy, cold recluse, but he is so noble and selfless. He thinks of everyone before he thinks of himself - his tenants, his estate/staff, his dukedom (hence the haste to marry - to produce an heir so the dukedom will go to a suitable heir), random strangers in the streets of Mayfair. Ash is so misjudged, and it hurt me to see how badly he thought of himself. He thinks he is a monster because of his scars, and he never goes out to town or to societal events that a duke should attend. I feel so bad for him, because he totally has the right to wallow, but at the same time, you want him to think more highly of himself and to stop letting his ex-fiancee's treatment of him affect his attitude towards himself.

Yeah... the ex-fiancee is a terrible person. Ash is the one who broke the engagement, but because the ex-fiancee couldn't stand the sight of him. How awful of her. 

Emma is almost like the opposite of Ash. She is a ray of sunshine, a dash of positivity, a parcel of happiness. She agrees to marry him for several reasons, one of which is that she can't stop thinking about him, after their first meeting. Emma is so selfless and kind, and like Ash, she wants to help others more than she wants to help herself. The difference is that Ash does a lot in secret, whereas Emma is more direct and deals with the people she helps. I love how Emma is so accepting of his appearance, his grouchiness, and his stubbornness. She never thinks to abandon him and leave him to his fate - in fact, she always hopes that he won't send her away to the country house when she becomes pregnant (which was their agreement). Emma is patient and sweet, exactly what Ash needs.

I loved the staff of Ash's house! Khan is hilarious in his stoic way - a true companion to Ash, though he has served in the duke's house longer than Ash has been alive. The staff of the house are always plotting to force Ash and Emma together in some uncanny situation, like luring them into the attic and locking it, and leaving them at the country house with no carriage. They are desperate for Ash to fall for Emma because he needs someone, and Emma is a good "someone" for him.

Also, the cat. Let's not forget the cat, Breeches. I didn't totally like him at first, but I love how the cat latches on to Ash (who is grumpy and hates the cat). Ha!

The banter between Ash and Emma is so great! Sometimes is so sarcastic, sometimes light and witty, sometimes teasing. Ash is mostly grouchy, but as the story goes on, he becomes more open and outwardly kind. I love the playfulness that exists between them, even in the early times of their relationship when it wasn't quite playful yet.

The romance is lovely! Ash is attracted to Emma immediately, which is one of the reasons why he wanted to marry her from the moment he saw her. Emma is attracted to Ash, something that Ash doesn't believe at first. The two of them have such great chemistry, which leads to some pretty passionate sexy times. Guys. I feel like this is Tessa Dare's hottest book yet. Ash has a lot of pent-up intensity, and Emma... Emma loves his lovemaking. I adore this kind of physical relationship - they both come to know and understand each other's preferences, and luckily, they sync very well together. Things are hot and a little rough in the bedroom, but in a very steamy, very consensual way.

I love the myriad issues that Dare includes in this story. It's not just about Ash and Emma falling in love. The story deals with Ash accepting himself and his appearance, and gaining more confidence. It's about Ash getting past the psychological damage his ex-fiancee did to him. It's about Emma letting go of how her own father treated her when she did something that was a mistake. It's about Emma trying to help another woman who has done something similar to Emma's mistake. There is so much to love about this story. because there are so many parts of the story that come together to make a beautiful book. 

I won't say more because I think anyone who is a fan of this author and/or is interesting in this book should experience it for themselves. I want to happy-cry every time I finish a Tessa Dare book! I think When a Scot Ties the Knot is still my all-time favorite book of hers, but this one isn't far behind. None of them are!

What I Did Not Like:

There is one tiny part of the climax that I didn't love, because it involves Ashbury swallowing his pride when Emma should have also swallowed hers. I definitely agree with Ashbury manning up and doing this and that, but I also think Emma should have backed down and swallowed her pride too. This is a huge pet peeve of mine in adult romance (across all genres - contemporary historical, paranormal, etc.). Emma had just as much to apologize and fight for. 

It's not a huge deal and nothing to sink the book, just a pet peeve of mine that bothers me 99% of the time. In this case, it isn't so bad, but it's still there. Emma hurt Ashbury (in the climax) as much as he hurt her, so I wanted to see them BOTH make amends. Hence the four-star rating (as opposed to five stars).

Would I Recommend It:

I highly recommend this book to any historical romance fan out there! Start this new series and then go read some of her older books! I also recommend the Castles Ever After series and the Spindle Cove series. I need to read her books besides those, but yeah, you're pretty much safe with any Dare book that you choose. I'm loving her more recent more though! If you want fun, sweet, swoony, sexy historical romance, look no further. (Well, I could give you other recommendations of other authors' books too. But Dare does historical romance SO WELL.) 

Rating:

4.5 stars. You know why I'm rounding down. But seriously, this book was magical. It reminds me of The Viscount Who Lived Down the Lane by Elizabeth Boyle, with a scarred and grouchy hero and a persistent and sweet heroine who won't leave him alone. And also has an annoying (but endearing) cat. Plus the sort-of hate-to-love romance. Except The Duchess Deal involves a marriage of convenience early on in the story, and I love that trope. Anyway, this book was awesome and you should not miss it if you enjoy adult historical romance! 

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Review: Do You Want to Start a Scandal by Tessa Dare

Do You Want to Start a Scandal by Tessa Dare

Book Five of the Spindle Cove series/Book Four of the Castles Ever After series

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: September 27, 2016

Rating: 4 stars

Source: eARC from Edelweiss

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

On the night of the Parkhurst ball, someone had a scandalous tryst in the library.

•Was it Lord Canby, with the maid, on the divan?

•Or Miss Fairchild, with a rake, against the wall?

•Perhaps the butler did it.

All Charlotte Highwood knows is this: it wasn’t her. But rumors to the contrary are buzzing. Unless she can discover the lovers’ true identity, she’ll be forced to marry Piers Brandon, Lord Granville—the coldest, most arrogantly handsome gentleman she’s ever had the misfortune to embrace. When it comes to emotion, the man hasn’t got a clue.

But as they set about finding the mystery lovers, Piers reveals a few secrets of his own. The oh-so-proper marquess can pick locks, land punches, tease with sly wit … and melt a woman’s knees with a single kiss. The only thing he guards more fiercely than Charlotte’s safety is the truth about his dark past.

Their passion is intense. The danger is real. Soon Charlotte’s feeling torn. Will she risk all to prove her innocence? Or surrender it to a man who’s sworn to never love?

What I Liked:

This book was LOVELY. I can't think of a better word to describe it. This is Tessa Dare at her best - with a funny, charming, sexy, heartwarming story. Charlotte is a kind yet busybody-type, and Piers is a seemingly cold yet haunted and brooding type, and the pair make for a bickering, opposing, passionate couple. I loved this story!

At the Parkhurst ball, Charlotte Highwood goes to find Lord Granville. Her mother is determined to see Charlotte marry this marquess, but Charlotte wants to let him know that she has no intentions of doing so. Unfortunately, while Piers and Charlotte are talking, another couple comes in. Piers and Charlotte hide, but the couple have sex, making a lot of noise. They leave, and while Charlotte and Piers look to leave too, they are "discovered". Piers does the honorable thing in offering for Charlotte. But Charlotte thinks that finding out who the mysterious lovers were will set everything to rights, making it possible for her and Piers not to marry. But she slowly discovers that this seemingly cold, proper lord is quite charming, sexy, and has excellent instincts and skills. Charlotte wants to marry for love, and she's falling in love with Piers. But does Piers love her back?

Tessa Dare sure knows how to create, craft, and develop characters. This sounds so basic, but Dare really has a talent for this. I've read many of her books, and I've found that all of her characters are so lifelike, and very likable. Often times I have issues with heroines in historical romance novels, but I didn't have any problems with Charlotte.

Charlotte is adorable and kind, a bit of a busybody but in a well-meaning way. She's perceptive in her own way, and she definitely means well in everything she does. The problem is, much of what she does (and means well, in doing), ends badly. Getting caught with Piers, unchaperoned? The opposite of what she'd intended. Marrying him? Not part of the plan. She wants to love the man she marries, and vice versa. Charlotte doesn't stand up to her overbearing mother, but she is rebellious at times. I like that Charlotte is a mix of sweet and feisty. I like that she fits the bill of a twenty-one-year-old of this time period, and yet she is somewhat independent and strong-minded too.

Piers. Oh Piers. This review could be entirely about Piers and I bet I'd convince all of you reading this review to read the book, just because of Piers alone. We meet Piers in Say Yes to the Marquess, in which Clio, his intended, marries his brother Rafe. You'd think Piers would hold this against Rafe and have a grudge about Rafe taking his bride, but Piers is very supportive of the pair. Piers and Clio's would-be marriage was arranged for quite some time, and neither had any inclination toward each other.

Piers seems proper and almost cold, perfect polite with sparsely changing facial expressions and excellent perception. He's clever and extremely intelligent, but he has difficult with emotions. Piers had an awful childhood, one that Rafe does not remember or know (Rafe is several years younger). my heart broke for Piers over and over. The poor man knows to do his duty as a marquess, and wants others to be well and taken care of, but he has no notion of love and doesn't want to feel romantic love for anyone, nor does he want anyone to feel that love for him.

Piers, guys. The man is SO swoony. He may seem proper, but he is a live flame underneath his magnificent cravats and waistcoats. He wants Charlotte badly from the start, but also wants to do right by her. He protects her, as well as her reputation and her family, without fail. He takes care of Charlotte, and even though they are secretly engaged, he lets her be. Piers is a barely restrained alpha male, controlled and leashed, but he is also very charming and kind and sweet. He reminds me of Lord Darcy in Lady Bridget's Diary, except perhaps swoonier? Piers is, well, *sigh*.

The romance is so sweet, and steamy, and mostly sweet. I loved seeing the pair interact. Most of the time they are gently bickering, in which Charlotte is bothering Piers, and Piers is faintly amused. Piers then teases Charlotte, Charlotte is shocked, etc. There are lots of passionate kisses, and then sweet words, and basically I was sighing and hugging this book for the entire duration of the story.

The little mystery isn't as big of a part of the series as I expected, which I was totally fine with. Don't get me wrong, it's an important part, but I like that Piers and Charlotte's relationship was a little more important. Charlotte and Piers (mostly Charlotte) do the investigating and find out who the mysterious lovers are... it's quite the twist!

Did I mention the humor of this book yet? All of Tessa Dare's books are quite funny, and this novel is no exception. I love the humor! Some of scenes were downright hilarious. 

Something cool about this book - it's part of TWO series! The Spindle Cove series (book five) and the Castles Ever After series (book four). I've read books from both series (all four of the Castles Ever After books, and three of the Spindle Cove books), and I've really enjoyed all of the books I've read. Charlotte is specifically part of the Spindle Cove series, and Piers is specifically part of the Castles Ever After series, and here we are, joining the two. I love how Dare did this! It was tricky when labeling the series at the top of my review, but you'll notice that I put both in there.

Anyway! I'm quite pleased with this book. I haven't read a Tessa Dare book that I didn't love, and that is saying something. I love historical romance novels, and Tessa Dare is an auto-buy/auto-read author for me, every time. She's definitely a favorite historical romance author of mine! 

What I Did Not Like:

I know I'm not giving this book five stars, but it's not because there was anything specific that was wrong with the book. I wish, in the end, that Charlotte was the one to give chase, but at the same time, they both gave chase, in the end. Both erred and both corrected (though it was more effort on Piers' part). But that wouldn't be cause for me to drop the rating. I loved this book, just not as much as I loved other Dare books. 

Would I Recommend It:

I highly recommend this novel! If you love the Spindle Cove series, or the Castles Ever After series, or historical romance in general, this is definitely one NOT to miss. I rarely say that about historical romance novels, so get on that! Tessa Dare's books are unmatched in their humor, wit, and sexy times. (Seriously, her books are on the more steamy side of historical romance, usually!)

Rating:

4.5 stars. I hesitate to round down, but at the moment, I'm not feeling a 5-star rating! I'm stingy with those, but who knows, I may change my mind (this is rare). I absolutely adored this book. While I'm sad to see both series end, I'm excited for the new series that Dare is writing!

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Swoon Thursday (#129): When a Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare

Swoon Thursday is a hot meme hosted by the fabulous ladies at YA Bound!

- From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering

- Try to make the swoon excerpt 140 characters (or less), if you are going to tweet about it. Use the hashtag #YABOUND when tweeting

This week, my swoon is from When a Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare!

"If it's dirty you want...?" He tugged her close, startling a gasp from her. "It's dirty you'll get."

His mouth fell on hers, hot and masterful. His hands were everywhere, smearing even the cleaner parts of her frock with mud. All Maddie could do was cling to his coat while the forbidden sensations swamped her.

His tongue swept into her mouth. Seeking, demanding. She could taste the frustration in his kiss. Whatever it was left over from last night, this morning, or the entirety of the past decade, she couldn't guess. Whatever the cause, he obviously meant to avenge it with this sensual onslaught. 

- eARC, 48%

Author Website | Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Romancing the Duke | Say Yes to the Marquess | When a Scot Ties the Knot

I absolutely LOVED this book! It's an adult one (I know, I usually share YA swoons), but it is easily a favorite of the year. Best of the series, the genre!

Review: When a Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare

When a Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare

Book Three of the Castles Ever After series

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: August 25, 2015

Rating: 5 stars

Source: eARC from Edelweiss

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

On the cusp of her first London season, Miss Madeline Gracechurch was shyly pretty and talented with a drawing pencil, but hopelessly awkward with gentlemen. She was certain to be a dismal failure on the London marriage mart. So Maddie did what generations of shy, awkward young ladies have done: she invented a sweetheart.

A Scottish sweetheart. One who was handsome and honorable and devoted to her, but conveniently never around. Maddie poured her heart into writing the imaginary Captain MacKenzie letter after letter … and by pretending to be devastated when he was (not really) killed in battle, she managed to avoid the pressures of London society entirely.

Until years later, when this kilted Highland lover of her imaginings shows up in the flesh. The real Captain Logan MacKenzie arrives on her doorstep—handsome as anything, but not entirely honorable. He’s wounded, jaded, in possession of her letters… and ready to make good on every promise Maddie never expected to keep.

What I Liked:

Favorite. Historical. Romance. Yet. I've read quite a few enjoyable ones this year so far, and plenty of awesome ones last year and in past years, but this one takes the cake for favorite historical romance novel of 2015 (so far). It's the best of the Castles Ever After series. Tessa Dare's best book yet, perhaps. I don't want to over-hype this book for anyone excited to read it but GUYS. It is so good! Favorite SCOTTISH historical romance!

Maddie Gracechurch invented a Scottish fiancee in order to keep her family from marrying her off. She gets nervous around a lot of people, and doesn't want to participate in her first Season. So she invents Captain Logan Mackenzie, and over the years, she writes him letters. And then kills him off, because he's not real! Except, he is. A certain Captain Logan Mackenzie does exist (the name is a common Scottish one), and he has received every single one of her letters. He's arrived in her small home in Scotland (long story about how she got the land), and he wants his part in what he thinks he is owed - a fiancee, and a home in Scotland, as promised.

Ahhh. Happy sigh. I don't even know how to review this book. It was so wonderful! From the start, it was a fun book. The humor and wit in this book are so heartwarming and lovely. I couldn't stop smiling as I was reading. Dare has a way with writing, in which her writing is so fluid and effortless, with plenty of humor. Again, the wit and humor are spot-on, and so enjoyable!

I liked Maddie - she is a tiny bit awkward, shy around even a small number of people, a hard worker, introverted, determined. She illustrates bugs, and wants to keep illustrating, but a husband might not let her. She also observes two lobsters (Fluffy and... Rex? I've forgotten the male's name - though I think it's Rex), hoping to see how they mate and molt and whatnot. She's a nerd, a dedicated one at that, and I like her a lot. 

Logan... gosh, there are no words. He is easily one of my favorite historical romance male protagonists. Scottish and sexy, he captivated me from the start. When he entered the story (for real, after all those years), I perked up. He's an intriguing guy, and I'm not just talking about him physically. Though he sounds like a hot, super tall, muscular, built specimen of a man with a killer Scottish accent... but he's also clever and witty, dedicated to his soldiers, and persistent. He never stops trying to get Maddie to marry him, consummate the marriage, get what he is after. And not in a malicious way! His reasons for wanting the holdings are noble, really.

The romance! Oh! I love how Dare develops the romance in this story. Logan is after Maddie from the start, not only because he wants to consummate the marriage and be the owner of the lands she lives on in Scotland, but also because he is intrigued by the girl who sent him so many letters. And he is very attracted to her. As she is attracted to him too! Maddie is intrigued by him, though she is also a wee bit intimidated by him. The two of them sizzle and spark as chemistry heats up between them. I absolutely love the development of the relationship, especially with the healthy dose of humor behind everything. So enjoyable!

I couldn't read enough of this story! I don't even know how long it is, I just know it wasn't long enough. In a good way, meaning I want more. While there is plenty of humor in this book, there are serious moments in which Logan and Maddie consider their relationship, their future, their friendships, their pasts. The truth comes out of them both in many different areas of their lives, both good and bad. There is "heavy stuff" in addition to all of the boisterous humor and sizzling chemistry!

Overall, I loved this book. It's earning a rare five stars from me, so of course I loved it! It's an all-time favorite historical romance novel for sure, and the best of this series. Romancing the Duke and Say Yes to the Marquess are both amazing! But definitely do NOT miss this one!

What I Did Not Like:

Nope, can't think of anything. La la la *rereads again* I actually have already reread this one, several times now.

Would I Recommend It:

Absolutely highly mostly definitely recommend this one! You need to read it! Even if you're not a big historical romance reader - if you like adult romance, then give this book a try! Tessa Dare is one of the best in the business, and you can't go wrong with any of her books, really. Her Spindle Cove series is quite good too. But THIS BOOK. *nudges everyone*

Rating:

5 stars. Guys. I begged for a review copy of this one from the publisher, and then threw my reading schedule and read this book way early (which is out of character for me). And then promptly reread this book several times, upon finishing the first time. Trust me when I say that YOU NEED THIS BOOK IN YOUR LIFE! Pardon the caps!

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Review: Say Yes to the Marquess by Tessa Dare

Say Yes to the Marquess by Tessa Dare

Book Two of the Castles Ever After series

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: December 30, 2014

Rating: 5 stars

Source: eARC from Edelweiss

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

Your presence is requested at romantic Twill Castle for the wedding of Miss Clio Whitmore and . . . and . . . ?

After eight years of waiting for Piers Brandon, the wandering Marquess of Granville, to set a wedding date, Clio Whitmore has had enough. She's inherited a castle, scraped together some pride, and made plans to break her engagement.

Not if Rafe Brandon can help it. A ruthless prizefighter and notorious rake, Rafe is determined that Clio will marry his brother—even if he has to plan the dratted wedding himself.

So how does a hardened fighter cure a reluctant bride's cold feet?

● He starts with flowers. A wedding can't have too many flowers. Or harps. Or cakes.

● He lets her know she'll make a beautiful, desirable bride—and tries not to picture her as his.

● He doesn't kiss her.

● If he kisses her, he definitely doesn't kiss her again.

● When all else fails, he puts her in a stunning gown. And vows not to be nearby when the gown comes off.

● And no matter what—he doesn't fall in disastrous, hopeless love with the one woman he can never call his own.

What I Liked:

Holy moley, I loved this book. Five stars? Do I want more? Yes. Yes yes yes. Tessa Dare is definitely a favorite, auto-buy historical romance author. I LOVED Romancing the Duke (book one of this companion series), and I loved this one even more. Dare's writing is beautiful, her storytelling lovely, the romance superbly crafted!

Just a disclaimer - this book is in no way related to book one (Romancing the Duke). There are no crossover characters (that I can recall). The books are related/are in the same series because each book is set in some sort of castle. So you can read whichever book in whatever order or not at all... though I highly recommend that if you had to read one, read this one!

Clio has been engaged to Piers Brandon, a marquess, for eight years. Well, she will wait no longer. When she goes to find his brother, Rafe, to break off the engagement (since Piers is away for business, Rafe is the next person with the power to break it off), Rafe refuses. Instead, he comes to her newly inherited castle and tries to convince her to go through with the wedding... all the while, falling in love with her, and she with him. 

One of the things that really stuck out to me, that is unique to Dare, that I really loved in this book, was the HUMOR. It's hard to describe, but the banter between Rafe and Clio, their individual dialogue, their inner monologue, the way things are presented... it's just so HILARIOUS. It's not like this is supposed to be a "Humor" novel - no, it's clearly historical romance, but the way Dare writes, things are so, so funny. And it's great. Her writing is sort of modern, for a historical time, but it doesn't seem anachronistic.

Like I said, this book had a lot humor. It was very lighthearted, with Rafe finishing Clio's sentences, Rafe constantly trying to make Clio blush, Clio trying to by the perfect Englishwoman, Clio desperate to have Rafe sign the papers. Watching them fall for each other was so nice, because their relationship was so tension-free and carefree and playful. 

I like Clio a lot - she is very sweet. She's the oldest of three sisters, but her middle sister is already married, and is a serious pain. Clio has a lot of patience, which is perfect for dealing with her sister... or someone like Rafe. I really like Rafe. He used to be a prizefighter, and he still trains for underground fights. Imagine, a lord, the second son of a marquess, fighting like a common man. But I so like him! He wants nothing to do with the title (which is good, because Piers is first in line).

It's adorable to watch watch as the story progresses. Clio and Rafe get under each other's skin, in a surprising, lovely way. Their banter is wonderful and cute and a breath of fresh air. There isn't too much angst and woe is me and all that - Clio doesn't want to marry Piers, Rafe loves Clio, Clio loves Rafe. It just makes sense!

This one is kind of heavily romance-driven, which is fine by me! Rafe is trying to convince Clio to go forth with the marriage, because of his loyalty to his brother. But eventually, neither Rafe nor Clio want that, so it becomes a matter of Clio telling Piers the truth, whenever that may be.

I could re-read this book again and again. Seriously, it was that great! Definitely a favorite historical romance novel of the year - and in general!

What I Did Not Like:

I HATED Daphne (Clio's sister - the middle one). I mean, I think that was the point, but dang, I wanted to punch her (and her idiot husband) from the moment we meet them.

Would I Recommend It:

To all the historical romance lovers out there, you MUST give this book a shot. If I'm calling it a favorite, then at least add it to your TBR list. Just look at it. But seriously, this book is one of my favorite historical romance novels in general! And it's out in a month!

Rating:

5 stars. So well-earned. I want to go re-read this one right now!

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Review: Romancing the Duke by Tessa Dare

Romancing the Duke by Tessa Dare

Book One of the Castles Ever After series

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: January 28, 2014

Rating: 4 stars

Source: eARC from Edelweiss

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

In the first in Tessa Dare's captivating Castles Ever After series, a mysterious fortress is the setting for an unlikely love . . .

As the daughter of a famed author, Isolde Ophelia Goodnight grew up on tales of brave knights and fair maidens. She never doubted romance would be in her future, too. The storybooks offered endless possibilities.

And as she grew older, Izzy crossed them off. One by one by one.

Ugly duckling turned swan?

Abducted by handsome highwayman?

Rescued from drudgery by charming prince?

No, no, and… Heh.

Now Izzy’s given up yearning for romance. She’ll settle for a roof over her head. What fairy tales are left over for an impoverished twenty-six year-old woman who’s never even been kissed?

This one.

What I Liked:

Well, here it is! My last read of 2013. And what a read it was! I finished with a historical romance novel that is sure to be a fan-favorite. I've read a few other novels by Tessa Dare, and enjoyed them immensely, so I knew I would be in good hands. I can definitely see this book becoming extremely popular within the historical romance community.

There's a castle. There's a man living in the castle. And now, there is a woman who will be living in the castle, because the castle has fallen to her hands, much to the surprise of the man. But no matter. The man is determined to figure out the legal mess, and get his castle back. The woman is determined to have her castle, since she is poor and has just about nothing left.

The man is the Duke of Rothbury - named Ransom, and the woman is Isolde, "Izzy". I'm quite sure that this story is based off Beauty and the Beast, in a sense. Except, Izzy is NOT beautiful. But she is a dreamer, a storyteller of sorts. Ransom isn't exactly a beast, though he does have a disfigurement. There is no curse though - only a strange financial and legal matter that must be fixed. But everyone LOVES Izzy - just like everyone loved Beauty.

I really, really liked Ransom the most. He's the perfect amount of brooding, surly, handsome, gentlemanly... I don't care about his disfigurement/disability. He is perfect - probably one of my favorite historical romance heroes. Not probably - DEFINITELY. For me, this book was all him, and I loved it.

I didn't love Izzy (see below), but I thought the romance was awesome. The chemistry is powerful, right from the start, and it never stops. This is a very chemistry-filled and steamy historical romance novel - just saying! I loved how Dare infused chemistry and romance and somehow pulled it off without making the romance seem rushed or forced.

Overall, this book was GREAT. I hope the next books in this series are as lovely as this one! This is definitely a historical romance novel you do not want to miss!

What I Did Not Like:

There was really only one thing that bothered me, and to sum it up, it was Izzy. She was so annoying at times, and I feel like her character did not change AT ALL, from start to finish. She's so bothersome and pushy and doesn't know when to stop. Sometimes, Ransom needed to be pushed. But other times, he did not. 

Also, Izzy was stuck in her head ALL THE TIME. And this was one of the things that was not "fixed" in this book. She never had to give up anything for Ransom - her childishness, her stories, her fantasies. She never had to grow up, or give anything up, but Ransom had to give up or concede or yield. I hate that.

Would I Recommend It:

This is one historical romance novel that I would highly recommend. It's like, the perfect package for a historical romance read. One thing that is totally different is that there is basically no interaction in society or with the ton - but I like this. Everything takes place in the castle, which I like!t

Rating:

4 stars. Definitely a cute and enjoyable story! I'll be following this series for sure.

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Review: Any Duchess Will Do by Tessa Dare

Any Duchess Will Do by Tessa Dare

Book Four of the Spindle Cove series

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: May 28, 2013

Rating: 4 stars

Source: eARC from Edelweiss

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

What’s a duke to do, when the girl who’s perfectly wrong becomes the woman he can’t live without?

Griffin York, the Duke of Halford, has no desire to wed this season—or any season—but his diabolical mother abducts him to “Spinster Cove” and insists he select a bride from the ladies in residence. Griff decides to teach her a lesson that will end the marriage debate forever. He chooses the serving girl.

Overworked and struggling, Pauline Simms doesn't dream about dukes. All she wants is to hang up her barmaid apron and open a bookshop. That dream becomes a possibility when an arrogant, sinfully attractive duke offers her a small fortune for a week’s employment. Her duties are simple: submit to his mother’s “duchess training”… and fail miserably.

But in London, Pauline isn't a miserable failure. She’s a brave, quick-witted, beguiling failure—a woman who ignites Griff’s desire and soothes the darkness in his soul. Keeping Pauline by his side won’t be easy. Even if Society could accept a serving girl duchess—can a roguish duke convince a serving girl to trust him with her heart?

What I Liked:

Before I start, let me just say that I have not read the previous Spindle Cove novels or novellas, except Beauty and the Blacksmith (Book 3.5).

I liked this historical romance novel! I tend to like most of the ones I read, because I am extremely selective with these. Eventually, they can just start to sound the same. So I try to limit the ones that I read, and only read the ones that sound somewhat unique, or the ones that are by authors with which I am familiar.

Griffin is not your typical duke, or high-ranked member of society. He suffered a great deal about a year before our story starts, and this plagues him throughout the story. As readers, we don't see understand what it is until very late in the story, which is fantastic, because usually I can figure things out pretty quickly. Not so with Griffin.

It's always good to like your alpha males, right? Griffin is an awesome hero of the story, and I really liked following his train of thought. He was a lot more interesting than Pauline (sorry, Pauline!). And he is definitely a charmer, when he wants to be.

Pauline is a heroine with a good deal of depth. I liked this about her, because it really straightened out Griffin's mother at times. Pauline did her best to understand Griffin, and empathize, and work with him and for him. She has a kind heart, but she is a also a strong woman.

I love that Ms. Dare included Daniella, a "simple" (autism-like condition). It made the women of Spindle Cove seem awful, compared to Pauline (not that Pauline is anything like them), and it made Pauline all the more likable.

Griffin and Pauline together. BOOM. Their relationship is so sweet, and yet, they can make it rain. I love the scene in the library, but not just for naughty reasons. Same with the one at the orphanage. There is where we get a peak at Griffin's past. And it's there that we see Griffin and Pauline hold up each other.

The plot was very Cinderella-esque. I know you might think, oh, then I know exactly what will happen! Well, not really. Because what you think will happen did not happen.

The ending was good. Ish. Keep reading below - you will see why I am "eh" about the ending. But, there was no love triangle, no major plot holes, nothing that made me mad. This book was truly a good one!

What I Did Not Like:

Like I said before, I thought the ending was good. Ish. It wasn't your traditional, perfect ending, but I am glad everything still went well for Griffin and Pauline. I just cannot understand Pauline sometimes.

Would I Recommend It:

Despite the slight discomfort with the ending, I enjoyed this book! It's definitely a fantastic historical romance book, and I think most historical romance fans will love this book. DEFINITELY read this one if you love the Spindle Cove series and Tessa Dare!

Rating:

4 stars. Go read it! You will enjoy this cute and humorous historical romance novel.

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