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Mallorens & Friends #1
My Lady Notorious
Desperate to help her widowed sister and baby escape a deadly pursuer, Lady Chastity Ware dresses as a highwayman and captures the first coach to travel down the road. Coming face-to-face with its occupant, the arrogant aristocrat, Cyn Malloren, she orders him to drive her to a remote cottage.
Little does Chastity realize that after long months of recovering from his war wounds, the handsome Cyn is looking for adventure, and being abducted by a cocky highwayman—obviously a lovely woman in disguise—is even more than he had hoped for. Willingly he is drawn into her devilishly reckless plan...and helplessly he is seduced by her wonderfully wicked ways.
Little does Chastity realize that after long months of recovering from his war wounds, the handsome Cyn is looking for adventure, and being abducted by a cocky highwayman—obviously a lovely woman in disguise—is even more than he had hoped for. Willingly he is drawn into her devilishly reckless plan...and helplessly he is seduced by her wonderfully wicked ways.
371 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1993
222 people are currently reading
2319 people want to read
About the author
Jo Beverley
140 books1,129 followersMary Josephine Dunn was born 22 September 1947 in Lancashire, England, UK. At the age of eleven she went to an all-girls boarding school, Layton Hill Convent, Blackpool. At sixteen, she wrote her first romance, with a medieval setting, completed in installments in an exercise book. From 1966 to 1970, she obtained a degree in English history from Keele University in Staffordshire, where she met her future husband, Ken Beverley. After graduation, they married on June 24, 1971. She quickly attained a position as a youth employment officer until 1976, working first in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, and then in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire.
In 1976, her scientist husband was invited to do post-doctoral research at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. When her professional qualifications proved not to be usable in the Canadian labour market, she raised their two sons and started to write her first romances.
Moved to Ottawa, in 1985 she became a founding member of the Ottawa Romance Writers’ Association, that her “nurturing community” for the next twelve years. The same year, she completed a regency romance, but it was promptly rejected by a number of publishers, and she settled more earnestly to learning the craft. In 1988, it sold to Walker, and was published as "Lord Wraybourne's Betrothed". She regularly appears on bestseller lists including the USA Today overall bestseller list, the New York Times, and and the Publishers Weekly list. She has been the recipient of numerous awards including the Golden Leaf, the Award of Excellence, the National Readers Choice, and a two Career Achievement awards from Romantic Times. She is also a five time winner of the RITA, the top award of the Romance Writers Of America, and a member of their Hall of Fame and Honor Roll.
Jo Beverley passed away on May 23, 2016 after a long battle with cancer.
In 1976, her scientist husband was invited to do post-doctoral research at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. When her professional qualifications proved not to be usable in the Canadian labour market, she raised their two sons and started to write her first romances.
Moved to Ottawa, in 1985 she became a founding member of the Ottawa Romance Writers’ Association, that her “nurturing community” for the next twelve years. The same year, she completed a regency romance, but it was promptly rejected by a number of publishers, and she settled more earnestly to learning the craft. In 1988, it sold to Walker, and was published as "Lord Wraybourne's Betrothed". She regularly appears on bestseller lists including the USA Today overall bestseller list, the New York Times, and and the Publishers Weekly list. She has been the recipient of numerous awards including the Golden Leaf, the Award of Excellence, the National Readers Choice, and a two Career Achievement awards from Romantic Times. She is also a five time winner of the RITA, the top award of the Romance Writers Of America, and a member of their Hall of Fame and Honor Roll.
Jo Beverley passed away on May 23, 2016 after a long battle with cancer.
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August 22, 2017
This was my first Jo Beverley novel, and I'm sure it's also the last. I'm so glad it's over, you have no idea.
On the surface, the plot seemed like one of your standard romance plots. Here's a quick rundown: heroine is on the run from evil family, she encounters hero and he ends up assisting, they evade the bad guys and fall in love, heroine falls into danger once more but escapes and reunites with hero, and then they hatch a plot to foil the bad guys and live happily ever after when the plot works. Fairly average, and yet somehow this book was way too dramatic and ridiculous in execution.
Okay. So one of the important plot points is the heroine Chastity's er, well, chastity. Or lack thereof, according to gossip. In a *real* romance, this might be an issue for everyone except the hero. Because he loves the heroine and wants her no matter what, conventions be damned.
But no. Cyn just couldn't stop talking about Chastity's virginity and reputation.
And
And
*cue eyeroll*
It goes on even in the second half, after Chastity meets Cyn's family.
There's constant talk of "restoring her name" and reputation, and Cyn won't stop agonizing about having seduced Chastity and "weakened" her. I don't even know what's going on with that. THEN at her wedding, she has to swear before freakin' royalty that she's pure. WTF? This is romance?
This is actually a perfect example of a book that uses such conventions, apparently in the name of historical accuracy, and becomes less enjoyable for it. Aside from the purity obsession, there was also a scene at an orgy (I'll get to that) where a black woman who, while she seems to be very in control of herself in a room full of men, is presented in an overtly sexual manner. She's referred to as "slave" by Cyn's brother. Then they go off to have sex. I'm assuming this brother is going to have his own book later on, but why the hell would I want to read about him now? UGH, it was so off-putting.
Speaking of that orgy, I forget why Cyn and Chastity were even there, but in any case, Chastity ends up disguising herself as a girl named Chloe and leaving their room in search of him. Of course, she's accosted multiple times on the way, once by Cyn's brother, and once by her OWN brother.
What the everloving hell? Why was that even in the book? Yes, Chastity's brother kissed her. No, he didn't know it was her, but she knew it was him. And instead of being repulsed she just pauses to question whether your brother kissing you is a sin? WTF?!?!??? And he was the one who ended up pushing her away, rather than the other way around.
The first sex scene between Cyn and Chastity takes place at this orgy, and OMG, it's a doozy. Because it's not just vanilla sex. No, it's food sex. FOOD. SEX. And not just like a drop of honey or something. No, it's full-on.
And, after he drops dollops of cream on her cleavage and spreads it around:
WAT.
Also, Cyn would randomly start being a TOTAL ASS during this whole thing. Why? Because he was mad she was actually a wanton. Duh. AND, the non-food parts of the sex were just so bad.
YOU GUYS AREN'T EVEN VAMPIRES. STAHP.
Oh, and you know what else? Since Chastity doesn't know that Cyn knows Chloe was actually Chastity (I'm so sorry, it's really that convoluted), Chastity ends up feeling jealous of Chloe. OF HERSELF. I can't.
This book was just so random. For example, this line:
WHAT???? Why the hell would she be excited to have her brother and Cyn fighting over her? I mean... what? Not to mention she's had zero inclination throughout the entire book to incite fights between men. IT MAKES NO SENSE.
The ending, when the bad guys were getting their comeuppance, was SO DRAMATIC. It involved Cyn's ENTIRE FAMILY coming to the rescue. He's a member of one of those clans that's always referred to by their last name. "Oh, you know, the Mallorens." "We're Mallorens. Nothing is impossible." "This is the Malloren way." "He's a Malloren? GASP." Stuff like that. Except there was no context as to why everyone knew the Mallorens or why they were so influential. Anyway, random characters showed up in addition to every single other character from the story for this huge showdown.
And then, when words of love are exchanged, and the chapter ends, I thought it was all over. FINALLY. But I turned the page and there was ANOTHER CHAPTER. This was the wedding chapter. A whole chapter to the wedding, with more virginity angst (including the swearing to purity in front of royalty) and more food stuff.
Seriously. A food fight is foreplay. She even calls his dick "cucumber" at one point. And, annoyingly, I didn't even think they had a great connection or chemistry.
This book was just so bizarre. I've never read anything quite like it. If you're into food stuff and weird dramatics, however, it may be the one for you.
On the surface, the plot seemed like one of your standard romance plots. Here's a quick rundown: heroine is on the run from evil family, she encounters hero and he ends up assisting, they evade the bad guys and fall in love, heroine falls into danger once more but escapes and reunites with hero, and then they hatch a plot to foil the bad guys and live happily ever after when the plot works. Fairly average, and yet somehow this book was way too dramatic and ridiculous in execution.
Okay. So one of the important plot points is the heroine Chastity's er, well, chastity. Or lack thereof, according to gossip. In a *real* romance, this might be an issue for everyone except the hero. Because he loves the heroine and wants her no matter what, conventions be damned.
But no. Cyn just couldn't stop talking about Chastity's virginity and reputation.
But that meant she was no virgin. It didn't please him. Despite his lust for her, he didn't want her to be a wanton...
And
"Now this is important, and if you lie to me, I swear I'll beat you. Are you a virgin?"
And
He'd felt as if all the pleasures of life had turned to dross because his damsel was a wanton, not a misguided angel.
*cue eyeroll*
It goes on even in the second half, after Chastity meets Cyn's family.
"I intend to marry him."
"But of course."
"Why 'of course'?" she demanded.
"Because if you didn't," he remarked, "you'd be just the whore you are painted."
There's constant talk of "restoring her name" and reputation, and Cyn won't stop agonizing about having seduced Chastity and "weakened" her. I don't even know what's going on with that. THEN at her wedding, she has to swear before freakin' royalty that she's pure. WTF? This is romance?
This is actually a perfect example of a book that uses such conventions, apparently in the name of historical accuracy, and becomes less enjoyable for it. Aside from the purity obsession, there was also a scene at an orgy (I'll get to that) where a black woman who, while she seems to be very in control of herself in a room full of men, is presented in an overtly sexual manner. She's referred to as "slave" by Cyn's brother. Then they go off to have sex. I'm assuming this brother is going to have his own book later on, but why the hell would I want to read about him now? UGH, it was so off-putting.
Speaking of that orgy, I forget why Cyn and Chastity were even there, but in any case, Chastity ends up disguising herself as a girl named Chloe and leaving their room in search of him. Of course, she's accosted multiple times on the way, once by Cyn's brother, and once by her OWN brother.
He dragged her close and kissed her. Chastity froze. This was a terrible sin, wasn't it?
What the everloving hell? Why was that even in the book? Yes, Chastity's brother kissed her. No, he didn't know it was her, but she knew it was him. And instead of being repulsed she just pauses to question whether your brother kissing you is a sin? WTF?!?!??? And he was the one who ended up pushing her away, rather than the other way around.
The first sex scene between Cyn and Chastity takes place at this orgy, and OMG, it's a doozy. Because it's not just vanilla sex. No, it's food sex. FOOD. SEX. And not just like a drop of honey or something. No, it's full-on.
He took a slice of beef and slowly rolled it. "Now, what does this remind you of?"
Chastity frowned over it. "A roll of beef?"
He considered it. "Too small? You're doubtless right." He rolled two more slices around it and showed it to her. "Is that more to your taste?"
He put the meat into her left hand, grasped her right and guided it to his crotch. "What do you think?"
And, after he drops dollops of cream on her cleavage and spreads it around:
His head lowered and he licked some cream from her breasts in a long sweep. Dreamlike, Chastity kept sucking on his finger. She felt his tongue swirl around first one nipple, then the other, and caught her breath at the sweetness of the sensation. His tongue tickled the tip of each one. "Ah, my beauties," he murmured, "you envy my finger, don't you."
WAT.
Her gown hung from her shoulders and from the waist up she was all stained milk, cream, and bare skin.
Also, Cyn would randomly start being a TOTAL ASS during this whole thing. Why? Because he was mad she was actually a wanton. Duh. AND, the non-food parts of the sex were just so bad.
Desperate, she drew his finger deep into her mouth, but he laughed and dragged it free. "Sweet heaven, Chloe. One of us will draw blood at that rate."
YOU GUYS AREN'T EVEN VAMPIRES. STAHP.
Oh, and you know what else? Since Chastity doesn't know that Cyn knows Chloe was actually Chastity (I'm so sorry, it's really that convoluted), Chastity ends up feeling jealous of Chloe. OF HERSELF. I can't.
This book was just so random. For example, this line:
"I was maladroit, but would it not excite you, mignon, to know you are to be fought over?"
"No," said Chastity, but something inside told her she was lying.
WHAT???? Why the hell would she be excited to have her brother and Cyn fighting over her? I mean... what? Not to mention she's had zero inclination throughout the entire book to incite fights between men. IT MAKES NO SENSE.
The ending, when the bad guys were getting their comeuppance, was SO DRAMATIC. It involved Cyn's ENTIRE FAMILY coming to the rescue. He's a member of one of those clans that's always referred to by their last name. "Oh, you know, the Mallorens." "We're Mallorens. Nothing is impossible." "This is the Malloren way." "He's a Malloren? GASP." Stuff like that. Except there was no context as to why everyone knew the Mallorens or why they were so influential. Anyway, random characters showed up in addition to every single other character from the story for this huge showdown.
And then, when words of love are exchanged, and the chapter ends, I thought it was all over. FINALLY. But I turned the page and there was ANOTHER CHAPTER. This was the wedding chapter. A whole chapter to the wedding, with more virginity angst (including the swearing to purity in front of royalty) and more food stuff.
She looked at the tart, then threw it at him. He just stood there as golden fruit and juices and rich yellow cream slid slowly down his lithe torso. It landed on his penis, hovered there for a moment, then dropped off, leaving him well decorated.
He looked down and grinned. "I do believe dinner is served, milady."
Seriously. A food fight is foreplay. She even calls his dick "cucumber" at one point. And, annoyingly, I didn't even think they had a great connection or chemistry.
This book was just so bizarre. I've never read anything quite like it. If you're into food stuff and weird dramatics, however, it may be the one for you.
November 20, 2011
Warning: This isn't really a review. It's a rant, and therefore it's full of spoilers.
This book had an interesting premise - a strong heroine who disguises herself as a boy and "kidnaps" the charming hero in order to help her widowed sister - and I was fully expecting to enjoy it, but somehow it didn't work that well for me.
I loved the beginning of the book, when I got to know the somewhat flighty Cyn Malloren and the Notorious Chastity Ware. Since she was in disguise, he didn't know who she really was but he knew she was a woman and not the lad "Charles" she pretended to be, so he was instantly "smitten". She was also attracted to him but, alas, they couldn't really act on their feelings because she was a "he" - or so she thought he thought her to be, and he didn't want to reveal he wasn't fooled by her disguise. That deception provided some funny banter between them and Cyn had a lot of fun teasing "Charles". Unfortunately, that got old after a while because the author chose to drag that scenario for more than half the story. At one point, I found myself alternating between yelling at Cyn to tell her "Fun's over, love, I know you're a woman" and yelling at Chastity to tell him "Hey, guess what, I'm actually a woman".
But they didn't listen to me... The "secret" was not even revealed when they had sex for the first time. Again, she donned another disguise - she was "Chloe" now - and, although he knew who she was, he didn't say anything. The whole thing just felt "wrong" to me, when it should have been romantic. And the "before" and "after" their interlude only added an ick factor to it. *shudders*
See, their "lovemaking" - and I use that term loosely because I didn't feel any "love" there - happened during an orgy party hosted by one of Cyn's friends. Why the author felt the need to include an orgy in the story was beyond me, but that wasn't the worst part. The worst was having Chastity's brother Fort grab and kiss her as if she was one of the tarts invited to provide amusement to the party. He didn't know who she was - she was disguised as "Chloe", remember? - but she knew who he was, and I still don't know how he didn't end up wearing the contents of her stomach after that kiss. "Eew" doesn't begin to describe my feelings while I was reading that scene.
Then we had what happened "after" Cyn and Chastity's "lovemaking"... Right after leaving Cyn in the bedroom, Chastity ran into Cyn's brother Rothgar and, wow, he kissed her too! And I'm not talking about a peck, I'm talking about an open-mouthed kiss with tongues and all. WTF?!? When the orgy party was finally over, I was scratching my head and trying to figure out if I wanted to keep reading the book, because I didn't particularly like any of the characters, not even Cyn and Chastity, at that point.
As I'm stubborn as a mule, I kept reading and, incredibly, the story got better after those events and the book picked up its pace. But I felt like I was reading a different book, one where Rothgar, and not Cyn, was the hero. Rothgar just took the story over with his convoluted machinations, and Cyn was left to play an errand boy to his older brother. Chastity started having more "screen time" with Rothgar than with Cyn, and I wouldn't have been surprised if she had ended up with the older brother. They did have good chemistry between them, and that wasn't a good thing as the hero of this book was Cyn!
The ending was as convoluted as Rothgar's machinations, with everything and everyone falling into place according to his plan. It was so OTT that I had to reread it to follow all the weird "coincidences" that made the HEA possible.
While I didn't enjoy the story itself due to all its quirkiness and slow pace, especially in the first half of the book, I loved Cyn (except when he went all judgmental and cold toward Chastity during that darn orgy party), I cared for Chastity (enough to want to kill her father myself), and I thought Ms. Beverley's writing was good at making me feel the ambiance where the story took place, no matter how uncomfortable it was for me.
So I didn't love this book, which was a pity, but I didn't hate it either. Am I going to read the rest of the series? I'm not sure. Rothgar was the only secondary character I found interesting in this book, and "everyone" says his book is disappointing so I'd rather stick with the picture I have of him now. Am I going to read any other books by this author? Possibly, but I'm not running to the bookstore to get them.
This book had an interesting premise - a strong heroine who disguises herself as a boy and "kidnaps" the charming hero in order to help her widowed sister - and I was fully expecting to enjoy it, but somehow it didn't work that well for me.
I loved the beginning of the book, when I got to know the somewhat flighty Cyn Malloren and the Notorious Chastity Ware. Since she was in disguise, he didn't know who she really was but he knew she was a woman and not the lad "Charles" she pretended to be, so he was instantly "smitten". She was also attracted to him but, alas, they couldn't really act on their feelings because she was a "he" - or so she thought he thought her to be, and he didn't want to reveal he wasn't fooled by her disguise. That deception provided some funny banter between them and Cyn had a lot of fun teasing "Charles". Unfortunately, that got old after a while because the author chose to drag that scenario for more than half the story. At one point, I found myself alternating between yelling at Cyn to tell her "Fun's over, love, I know you're a woman" and yelling at Chastity to tell him "Hey, guess what, I'm actually a woman".
But they didn't listen to me... The "secret" was not even revealed when they had sex for the first time. Again, she donned another disguise - she was "Chloe" now - and, although he knew who she was, he didn't say anything. The whole thing just felt "wrong" to me, when it should have been romantic. And the "before" and "after" their interlude only added an ick factor to it. *shudders*
See, their "lovemaking" - and I use that term loosely because I didn't feel any "love" there - happened during an orgy party hosted by one of Cyn's friends. Why the author felt the need to include an orgy in the story was beyond me, but that wasn't the worst part. The worst was having Chastity's brother Fort grab and kiss her as if she was one of the tarts invited to provide amusement to the party. He didn't know who she was - she was disguised as "Chloe", remember? - but she knew who he was, and I still don't know how he didn't end up wearing the contents of her stomach after that kiss. "Eew" doesn't begin to describe my feelings while I was reading that scene.
Then we had what happened "after" Cyn and Chastity's "lovemaking"... Right after leaving Cyn in the bedroom, Chastity ran into Cyn's brother Rothgar and, wow, he kissed her too! And I'm not talking about a peck, I'm talking about an open-mouthed kiss with tongues and all. WTF?!? When the orgy party was finally over, I was scratching my head and trying to figure out if I wanted to keep reading the book, because I didn't particularly like any of the characters, not even Cyn and Chastity, at that point.
As I'm stubborn as a mule, I kept reading and, incredibly, the story got better after those events and the book picked up its pace. But I felt like I was reading a different book, one where Rothgar, and not Cyn, was the hero. Rothgar just took the story over with his convoluted machinations, and Cyn was left to play an errand boy to his older brother. Chastity started having more "screen time" with Rothgar than with Cyn, and I wouldn't have been surprised if she had ended up with the older brother. They did have good chemistry between them, and that wasn't a good thing as the hero of this book was Cyn!
The ending was as convoluted as Rothgar's machinations, with everything and everyone falling into place according to his plan. It was so OTT that I had to reread it to follow all the weird "coincidences" that made the HEA possible.
While I didn't enjoy the story itself due to all its quirkiness and slow pace, especially in the first half of the book, I loved Cyn (except when he went all judgmental and cold toward Chastity during that darn orgy party), I cared for Chastity (enough to want to kill her father myself), and I thought Ms. Beverley's writing was good at making me feel the ambiance where the story took place, no matter how uncomfortable it was for me.
So I didn't love this book, which was a pity, but I didn't hate it either. Am I going to read the rest of the series? I'm not sure. Rothgar was the only secondary character I found interesting in this book, and "everyone" says his book is disappointing so I'd rather stick with the picture I have of him now. Am I going to read any other books by this author? Possibly, but I'm not running to the bookstore to get them.
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March 18, 2023
I can't BELIEVE I waited so long to read this one. Thanks to Jacob, whose glowing review is what finally pushed me into it!
This one features Lady Chastity Ware, who's gallivanting about the countryside dressed as a male highwayman. When she holds up the carriage of Lord Cynric Malloren, youngest brother of the terrifying Marquess of Rothgar, she decides she might as well be hanged for a sheep as a lamb and takes Cyn prisoner. He, recognising her to be female straightaway, pretty much goes along with it. Who is this surprisingly attractive young woman, and what on earth is she doing?
I really feel like Beverley was a Georgette Heyer fan. It showed in some of the characterisations, and the humour is very good - Cyn and Chastity have great banter. Also, I'm a TOTAL sucker for the following:
⤅ Girls disguised as boys
⤅ Dandy-type heroes who just want to use their bodies to tempt the heroine
⤅ Close family relationships
⤅ Madcap escapade-type plots
So if any of those sound like your thing, you really want this book.
My only irk would be that at some points near the end, I started skimming the drama side of the plot. The evil villain was just too cartoonishly evil, and though Rothgar's machinations were fun to read about, it did feel like things were handed to him too neatly.
This one features Lady Chastity Ware, who's gallivanting about the countryside dressed as a male highwayman. When she holds up the carriage of Lord Cynric Malloren, youngest brother of the terrifying Marquess of Rothgar, she decides she might as well be hanged for a sheep as a lamb and takes Cyn prisoner. He, recognising her to be female straightaway, pretty much goes along with it. Who is this surprisingly attractive young woman, and what on earth is she doing?
I really feel like Beverley was a Georgette Heyer fan. It showed in some of the characterisations, and the humour is very good - Cyn and Chastity have great banter. Also, I'm a TOTAL sucker for the following:
⤅ Girls disguised as boys
⤅ Dandy-type heroes who just want to use their bodies to tempt the heroine
⤅ Close family relationships
⤅ Madcap escapade-type plots
So if any of those sound like your thing, you really want this book.
My only irk would be that at some points near the end, I started skimming the drama side of the plot. The evil villain was just too cartoonishly evil, and though Rothgar's machinations were fun to read about, it did feel like things were handed to him too neatly.
June 1, 2016
Well, I wondered what one of Jo Beverley's early books was like and I have to call this a raging success. This was a great story with a spanking pace and characters I liked a great deal. I even liked how she handled the masquerade aspect with Chastity spending much of the novel posing as Charles. Since Cyn catches on almost immediately, but chooses not to give anything away because of reasons that morph over time, it works better as a romance than would be typical of such a story (since both characters know the other's true nature so there's no anticipation of the inevitable crash).
And I really liked how Cyn's reasons morphed. It was a gauge of his growing attachment so that what starts out as a simple cure for boredom gradually becomes something stronger and more meaningful.
I do profess some surprise with the rather degenerate moral state of elevated society presented in the novel, though. I trust Beverley's research enough to believe it likely for such bacchanalia to be possible, but it seemed rather conveniently present in the novel (to make for maximum shock value?). A novel with a persistently gender-swapped main character is too good an opportunity to pass this up, though, so I rolled with it. That said, coupling this with some truly messed-up parental behavior and this could have easily choked on squick. Rather surprising it didn't, actually, but again, Beverley showed some serious skill navigating tricky shoals.
And as with many of my five star reads, this book kept me up waaaaay later than I could afford. That I don't resent it at all for doing so is testament to my engagement with it.
A note about craft: One of the interesting things in this was the romance-genre-style head hopping Beverley does throughout the book. I didn't see anything switch mid-paragraph as Nora Roberts sometimes pulls off, but there are some that swap back and forth in a couple paragraphs. I thought it well-done as I never had to backtrack for clarity. This is particularly impressive, now I think on it, in a book where gender pronouns should have been tricky and yet totally weren't. That's quite a lot of technical chops shown for so early in Beverley's career. I've already finished the next book in the series, so I know she doesn't continue with the tight head-hops, but now I kind of wonder why...
A note about Steamy: There were only a couple explicit sex scenes. Uh, between the main characters. There was some pretty broad explicitly lewd behavior presented, though, so this went into the higher regions of my steam tolerance. To offset that a little bit, though, is a fascinating exploration of sex weakening a relationship
And I really liked how Cyn's reasons morphed. It was a gauge of his growing attachment so that what starts out as a simple cure for boredom gradually becomes something stronger and more meaningful.
I do profess some surprise with the rather degenerate moral state of elevated society presented in the novel, though. I trust Beverley's research enough to believe it likely for such bacchanalia to be possible, but it seemed rather conveniently present in the novel (to make for maximum shock value?). A novel with a persistently gender-swapped main character is too good an opportunity to pass this up, though, so I rolled with it. That said, coupling this with some truly messed-up parental behavior and this could have easily choked on squick. Rather surprising it didn't, actually, but again, Beverley showed some serious skill navigating tricky shoals.
And as with many of my five star reads, this book kept me up waaaaay later than I could afford. That I don't resent it at all for doing so is testament to my engagement with it.
A note about craft: One of the interesting things in this was the romance-genre-style head hopping Beverley does throughout the book. I didn't see anything switch mid-paragraph as Nora Roberts sometimes pulls off, but there are some that swap back and forth in a couple paragraphs. I thought it well-done as I never had to backtrack for clarity. This is particularly impressive, now I think on it, in a book where gender pronouns should have been tricky and yet totally weren't. That's quite a lot of technical chops shown for so early in Beverley's career. I've already finished the next book in the series, so I know she doesn't continue with the tight head-hops, but now I kind of wonder why...
A note about Steamy: There were only a couple explicit sex scenes. Uh, between the main characters. There was some pretty broad explicitly lewd behavior presented, though, so this went into the higher regions of my steam tolerance. To offset that a little bit, though, is a fascinating exploration of sex weakening a relationship
April 12, 2019
Reseña completa: https://masromance.blogspot.com/2019/...
Todo un clásico de la romántica histórica pero que creo que se ha quedado viejuno. No quiero restarle mérito a una novela escrita en 1993 y, seguramente, hace 15 años me hubiera encantado, pero ahora no me la he creído, me ha parecido una historia inverosimil que raya el drama gratuito con la protagonista
Lo mejor el interés que me ha provocado el hermano mayor... ains que bien lo hacían estas autoras y Lisa sigue haciéndolo!
He de decir que una vez que se termina el road book la historia ha mejorado, pero el final podría ser más peliculero?
No me ha convencido pero está lleno de aventuras y Cyn es un personaje divertido ;)
Todo un clásico de la romántica histórica pero que creo que se ha quedado viejuno. No quiero restarle mérito a una novela escrita en 1993 y, seguramente, hace 15 años me hubiera encantado, pero ahora no me la he creído, me ha parecido una historia inverosimil que raya el drama gratuito con la protagonista
Lo mejor el interés que me ha provocado el hermano mayor... ains que bien lo hacían estas autoras y Lisa sigue haciéndolo!
He de decir que una vez que se termina el road book la historia ha mejorado, pero el final podría ser más peliculero?
No me ha convencido pero está lleno de aventuras y Cyn es un personaje divertido ;)
April 22, 2019
*2'5*
Una pena porque pintaba muy bien, pero se me hizo bola la lectura.
Una pena porque pintaba muy bien, pero se me hizo bola la lectura.
June 15, 2022
Cyn and Chastity are two wonderful mcs and deserve to have a happy happy hea.
But first they have to go on an adventure.
A race against time through most of England. With villains at their heels.
But first they have to go on an adventure.
A race against time through most of England. With villains at their heels.
January 16, 2017
#RetoRita
3,5
Las andanzas de Cyn y Chastity.
Me he reído mucho con Cyn, con su manera de "picar" a Chastity y su afán de aventura. El momento "vestimenta"...genial.
Chastity aguantando como una campeona las tretas de Cyn. Tremendo lo que le pasa a la pobre.
Este primer libro nos abre la puerta a conocer a los peculiares Malloren.
Recomendable. Creo que leeré alguno más, me he quedado con ganas de más Rothgar.
3,5
Las andanzas de Cyn y Chastity.
Me he reído mucho con Cyn, con su manera de "picar" a Chastity y su afán de aventura. El momento "vestimenta"...genial.
Chastity aguantando como una campeona las tretas de Cyn. Tremendo lo que le pasa a la pobre.
Este primer libro nos abre la puerta a conocer a los peculiares Malloren.
Recomendable. Creo que leeré alguno más, me he quedado con ganas de más Rothgar.
June 30, 2017
(8º del #RetoRita)
Una buena novela romántica histórica que me ha enganchado mientras la leía, pero poco más. Es entretenida, está muy bien documentada y el protagonista masculino, Cyn, es estupendo, un personaje magníficamente construido y, en mi opinión, el que sostiene toda la historia, aunque la trama se centre en realidad en la protagonista femenina, Chastity, y su conflicto. Una trama bien elaborada y desarrollada, y una ambientación impecable envuelven a esta pareja que se va enamorando durante una huída, entre las paredes de posadas, en los caminos que recorren y en el pequeño espacio de un carruaje. El ritmo es intenso sin ser trepidante, la tensión sexual es constante pero leve y las situaciones cómicas quitan hierro a la realidad que vive Chastity, muy acorde con la época en que transcurre la novela (siglo XVIII); una realidad en la que la mujer está completamente sometida al hombre (padre, marido, hermanos...) y en la que se le exige castidad (el nombre de ella, precisamente) hasta el matrimonio; una realidad en la que los rumores (infundados algunos) tiene más peso que la verdad. Chastity se rebela como puede ante su situación (víctima de un escándalo), pero no llega a ser una heroína como las que encontramos en las novelas históricas de hoy en día, que son más aguerridas y reivindicativas de sus derechos. Esto es característico de las novelas de los años 90, igual que esa mezcla de tramas donde la historia de amor avanza en paralelo con las aventuras en las que se ven inmersos los protagonistas para solucionar sus conflictos y por lo tanto, no es una crítica sino una observación. La contraportada del libro nos dice que "Lady Escándalo" es un clásico de la romántica, y ciertamente lo es, pero a mí me ha parecido un poco anticuada, por lo que solo la recomendaría a las que os guste la romántica histórica.
Una buena novela romántica histórica que me ha enganchado mientras la leía, pero poco más. Es entretenida, está muy bien documentada y el protagonista masculino, Cyn, es estupendo, un personaje magníficamente construido y, en mi opinión, el que sostiene toda la historia, aunque la trama se centre en realidad en la protagonista femenina, Chastity, y su conflicto. Una trama bien elaborada y desarrollada, y una ambientación impecable envuelven a esta pareja que se va enamorando durante una huída, entre las paredes de posadas, en los caminos que recorren y en el pequeño espacio de un carruaje. El ritmo es intenso sin ser trepidante, la tensión sexual es constante pero leve y las situaciones cómicas quitan hierro a la realidad que vive Chastity, muy acorde con la época en que transcurre la novela (siglo XVIII); una realidad en la que la mujer está completamente sometida al hombre (padre, marido, hermanos...) y en la que se le exige castidad (el nombre de ella, precisamente) hasta el matrimonio; una realidad en la que los rumores (infundados algunos) tiene más peso que la verdad. Chastity se rebela como puede ante su situación (víctima de un escándalo), pero no llega a ser una heroína como las que encontramos en las novelas históricas de hoy en día, que son más aguerridas y reivindicativas de sus derechos. Esto es característico de las novelas de los años 90, igual que esa mezcla de tramas donde la historia de amor avanza en paralelo con las aventuras en las que se ven inmersos los protagonistas para solucionar sus conflictos y por lo tanto, no es una crítica sino una observación. La contraportada del libro nos dice que "Lady Escándalo" es un clásico de la romántica, y ciertamente lo es, pero a mí me ha parecido un poco anticuada, por lo que solo la recomendaría a las que os guste la romántica histórica.
August 14, 2019
2.5 stars rounded up to 3
Anyone that knows me, knows that I can't stand a stupid heroine. They ruin a fabulous book EVERY TIME!! And believe me when I say there is a distinct difference between innocent and naive, vs too stupid to live. Chastity was determined to put her self in harms way and make the worst possible decisions at every turn.
The hero, Cyn, and his family were the only saving grace to get me through this book. They were supportive and kind, in complete contrast to Chastity's family. Chastity's father was evil, and brother was determined to strike her when ever she made him mad!!
The thing I found strangest of all was the scene where Cyn and Chastity end up in a house that is hosting an orgy. Sex taking place all over the house. But this is not an erotic book. All the love scenes faded to black and were non descriptive. I found it odd that the author introduced such a risqué storyline, just to leave it all PG-13
Anyone that knows me, knows that I can't stand a stupid heroine. They ruin a fabulous book EVERY TIME!! And believe me when I say there is a distinct difference between innocent and naive, vs too stupid to live. Chastity was determined to put her self in harms way and make the worst possible decisions at every turn.
The hero, Cyn, and his family were the only saving grace to get me through this book. They were supportive and kind, in complete contrast to Chastity's family. Chastity's father was evil, and brother was determined to strike her when ever she made him mad!!
The thing I found strangest of all was the scene where Cyn and Chastity end up in a house that is hosting an orgy. Sex taking place all over the house. But this is not an erotic book. All the love scenes faded to black and were non descriptive. I found it odd that the author introduced such a risqué storyline, just to leave it all PG-13
October 1, 2020
3.5 stars. I enjoyed this read, even though it felt a little 'old school' in style. (First published in 1993 so no surprise!)
There were some events and scenes that stretched credulity somewhat LOL, but it was a fun adventure and I just decided to go along for the ride. And it was fun. A fast-paced story that was easy to read and kept the reader involved. The hero Cynric and heroine Chastity were both likeable, and very much suited to each other. They did fall in love ridiculously quickly though, especially Chastity. Three days, I think. Ummm???
Chastity's father was an OTT villain. I did respect the writer's faithfulness to the mores of the times, however. Fathers did have ultimate power over their unmarried daughters, and there is no doubting some of them were cruel, and implemented harsh punishments for their daughters' misbehaviours, real or perceived.
I enjoyed the extended scene that took place at an orgy. LOL. Orgies are regularly alluded to in HRs, especially in the rakish heroes' murky pasts. It's rare that a writer takes the reader there, and explores some of the goings-on (without getting too tacky). I thought it was done well and added an interesting aspect to the book. Several plot points resulted from the events that took place there.
Apart from some slightly ridiculous events at time, overall the book felt historically correct and I did feel I was there in Georgian times, which I liked.
I did notice the odd similarity of the Malloren family to another famous HR family - the beloved Bedwyns (by Mary Balogh). The Bedwyns books seemed to be written about ten years after this first Malloren book, BTW. Once I looked closer, I could see lots of similarities: Both have four brothers and two sisters. The eldest brother is sexy and omniscient - a powerful titled noble who looks out for his younger siblings. Both families have very olde English names chosen by their parents, and interestingly, both oldest brothers have the name "Wolf" - Beowulf (Rothgar) and Wulfric (Bewcastle). There are of course significant differences too, and both writers have their own styles. Interesting parallels all the same, and of course I won't be the first to have noticed.
I was intrigued by the Malloren siblings, and also Fort (Fortitude) Ware, Chastity's brother. I have a feeling I may have read a book featuring him in the past, but the memory is so vague I've pretty much forgotten it. I know I've read and enjoyed Rothgar's book, Devilish, and I will consider rereading now I've read this first book in the series. I will also consider reading the books about the other Mallorens when the mood strikes.
I read this book for the Romance Across the Ages Challenge with HRBC, October, Georgian setting.
There were some events and scenes that stretched credulity somewhat LOL, but it was a fun adventure and I just decided to go along for the ride. And it was fun. A fast-paced story that was easy to read and kept the reader involved. The hero Cynric and heroine Chastity were both likeable, and very much suited to each other. They did fall in love ridiculously quickly though, especially Chastity. Three days, I think. Ummm???
Chastity's father was an OTT villain. I did respect the writer's faithfulness to the mores of the times, however. Fathers did have ultimate power over their unmarried daughters, and there is no doubting some of them were cruel, and implemented harsh punishments for their daughters' misbehaviours, real or perceived.
I enjoyed the extended scene that took place at an orgy. LOL. Orgies are regularly alluded to in HRs, especially in the rakish heroes' murky pasts. It's rare that a writer takes the reader there, and explores some of the goings-on (without getting too tacky). I thought it was done well and added an interesting aspect to the book. Several plot points resulted from the events that took place there.
Apart from some slightly ridiculous events at time, overall the book felt historically correct and I did feel I was there in Georgian times, which I liked.
I did notice the odd similarity of the Malloren family to another famous HR family - the beloved Bedwyns (by Mary Balogh). The Bedwyns books seemed to be written about ten years after this first Malloren book, BTW. Once I looked closer, I could see lots of similarities: Both have four brothers and two sisters. The eldest brother is sexy and omniscient - a powerful titled noble who looks out for his younger siblings. Both families have very olde English names chosen by their parents, and interestingly, both oldest brothers have the name "Wolf" - Beowulf (Rothgar) and Wulfric (Bewcastle). There are of course significant differences too, and both writers have their own styles. Interesting parallels all the same, and of course I won't be the first to have noticed.
I was intrigued by the Malloren siblings, and also Fort (Fortitude) Ware, Chastity's brother. I have a feeling I may have read a book featuring him in the past, but the memory is so vague I've pretty much forgotten it. I know I've read and enjoyed Rothgar's book, Devilish, and I will consider rereading now I've read this first book in the series. I will also consider reading the books about the other Mallorens when the mood strikes.
I read this book for the Romance Across the Ages Challenge with HRBC, October, Georgian setting.
February 2, 2018
Por fin lo he terminado.
Me gustado bastante más de lo que esperaba desde el principio. Algo había en ese inicio que me hacía dudar de esta novela, debido a un planteamiento y a unas frases un poco desafortunadas que me hacían temer que se trataba de una chorrada del tamaño de una catedral. Algunos diálogos, repletos de obviedad y un poco simplones me olían a chamusquina.
Pero el desarrollo de esta historia ha ido mejorando a medida que avanzaba, esos diálogos chorras dieron paso a situaciones y escenas mucho más divertidas y entretenidas y todos los personajes empezaron a encajar de un modo asombroso. Detalles ofrecidos como por descuido al principio, a media novela toman mucha más fuerza y asientan la personalidad de cada uno de sus protagonistas.
Una historia divertida, una aventura, un romance, esta novela ha sido puro entretenimiento y vicio, como u na serie de televisión en el que en cada capítulo a veces pasa algo incluso cuando parece que no está pasando nada.
Me ha encantado tanto que me he comprado los siguientes libros y estoy deseando leer a Rothgar. Este personaje, que no es más que un secundario, tenía una personalidad tan definida que me ha engatusado desde el principio.
Cyn es un personaje muy convincente, me ha gustado su sed de aventura y que no derivara en una parodia de sí mismo. Sobre Chastity, un personaje femenino coherente con la época que le ha tocado vivir, valiente y con preocupaciones humanas, sin más pretensión que la de ser feliz.
Un encanto de libro dentro del #RetoRita2017 que ha valido la pena.
Me gustado bastante más de lo que esperaba desde el principio. Algo había en ese inicio que me hacía dudar de esta novela, debido a un planteamiento y a unas frases un poco desafortunadas que me hacían temer que se trataba de una chorrada del tamaño de una catedral. Algunos diálogos, repletos de obviedad y un poco simplones me olían a chamusquina.
Pero el desarrollo de esta historia ha ido mejorando a medida que avanzaba, esos diálogos chorras dieron paso a situaciones y escenas mucho más divertidas y entretenidas y todos los personajes empezaron a encajar de un modo asombroso. Detalles ofrecidos como por descuido al principio, a media novela toman mucha más fuerza y asientan la personalidad de cada uno de sus protagonistas.
Una historia divertida, una aventura, un romance, esta novela ha sido puro entretenimiento y vicio, como u na serie de televisión en el que en cada capítulo a veces pasa algo incluso cuando parece que no está pasando nada.
Me ha encantado tanto que me he comprado los siguientes libros y estoy deseando leer a Rothgar. Este personaje, que no es más que un secundario, tenía una personalidad tan definida que me ha engatusado desde el principio.
Cyn es un personaje muy convincente, me ha gustado su sed de aventura y que no derivara en una parodia de sí mismo. Sobre Chastity, un personaje femenino coherente con la época que le ha tocado vivir, valiente y con preocupaciones humanas, sin más pretensión que la de ser feliz.
Un encanto de libro dentro del #RetoRita2017 que ha valido la pena.
April 12, 2019
Libro de Abril para el #RetoRita3 y... Psche, meeeh, ugh... y toda aquella onomatopeya que exprese indiferencia...
Ni bien ni mal. Ni me ha gustado, ni no me ha gustado. Y la culpa la tiene la segunda parte del libro!!
La primera mitad la verdad que me ha gustado y hasta me lo he pasado bien, con momentos divertidos pero... la segunda? Madre mía que ida de olla!!
Voy a empezar explicando que bastante me cuesta estar al día de política española actual... luego voy a decir que ya me costó estudiarme la política histórica española... Estoy para saber de política histórica inglesa, sí xD. Pues eso, que yo leía que si traidor, que si jacobista, que si mi abuela en bicicleta y estaba como ajá, ajá, pasa, pasa, ajá xD
Lo que más me ha gustado del libro es la relación entre Cyn (el mejor personaje del libro!) y Chastity (también muy buen personaje: a pesar de todo por lo que ha pasado la pobre, ahí seguía dando guerra!)
Lo que menos me ha gustado ya lo he dicho: el lodo político ese!
Y bueno, un apunte: entre el trato que le da el padre de Chastity a la pobre y el trato inicial de Fort he pasado ciertos momentos de pura rabia! Aunque sé que es histórica y que eso probablemente sería así, peeeero no puedo leerlo tan tranquila!
Conclusiones: mirando la primera parte, le habría dado 4 estrellas. Mirando la segunda, 1 (xD), voy a hacer una media y tirar para arriba y le pongo un 3 que en verdad sería más tirando a 2.5.
¿Me ha llamado la atención la familia Malloren? Sí ¿Voy a seguir la serie? No xD no se si en el futuro le daré alguna oportunidad pero de momento...
Ni bien ni mal. Ni me ha gustado, ni no me ha gustado. Y la culpa la tiene la segunda parte del libro!!
La primera mitad la verdad que me ha gustado y hasta me lo he pasado bien, con momentos divertidos pero... la segunda? Madre mía que ida de olla!!
Voy a empezar explicando que bastante me cuesta estar al día de política española actual... luego voy a decir que ya me costó estudiarme la política histórica española... Estoy para saber de política histórica inglesa, sí xD. Pues eso, que yo leía que si traidor, que si jacobista, que si mi abuela en bicicleta y estaba como ajá, ajá, pasa, pasa, ajá xD
Lo que más me ha gustado del libro es la relación entre Cyn (el mejor personaje del libro!) y Chastity (también muy buen personaje: a pesar de todo por lo que ha pasado la pobre, ahí seguía dando guerra!)
Lo que menos me ha gustado ya lo he dicho: el lodo político ese!
Y bueno, un apunte: entre el trato que le da el padre de Chastity a la pobre y el trato inicial de Fort he pasado ciertos momentos de pura rabia! Aunque sé que es histórica y que eso probablemente sería así, peeeero no puedo leerlo tan tranquila!
Conclusiones: mirando la primera parte, le habría dado 4 estrellas. Mirando la segunda, 1 (xD), voy a hacer una media y tirar para arriba y le pongo un 3 que en verdad sería más tirando a 2.5.
¿Me ha llamado la atención la familia Malloren? Sí ¿Voy a seguir la serie? No xD no se si en el futuro le daré alguna oportunidad pero de momento...
January 31, 2022
How lunatic her father is. To do the things he did. Disgusting. I felt bad for the heroine but at the same time I wanted to shake some sense into her. She wanted to become a martyr and even though I understood her, her reluctance towards the end was annoying.
The beginning was super exciting, the hero has great humor and is super sweet. He comes from a powerful family that many compares to the Bedwyn saga by Mary Balogh but I thought her book even more exciting due to many things happening one after another.
I am sure I will be reading more of this author.
The beginning was super exciting, the hero has great humor and is super sweet. He comes from a powerful family that many compares to the Bedwyn saga by Mary Balogh but I thought her book even more exciting due to many things happening one after another.
I am sure I will be reading more of this author.
February 4, 2018
Otro libro leído del #RetoRitaUno, ya van quedando menos jajajaja
Al principio pensé que este libro no me gustaría porque leí cosas que no me entusiasmaban mucho, me recordaban a otros libros que leí anteriormente que no me hicieron ni pizca de gracia y los protagonistas no me terminaban de convencer, pero ha resultado todo lo contrario, me han encantado. A medida que iba leyendo cada más me gustaba.
Al final resulta ser una lectura entretenida, ha tenido de todo un poco, he disfrutado mucho leyendo.
También me ha gustado mucho el hermano del protagonista, espero seguir leyendo esta serie. :) Y gracias como siempre a mi compi de lectura Paty
Al principio pensé que este libro no me gustaría porque leí cosas que no me entusiasmaban mucho, me recordaban a otros libros que leí anteriormente que no me hicieron ni pizca de gracia y los protagonistas no me terminaban de convencer, pero ha resultado todo lo contrario, me han encantado. A medida que iba leyendo cada más me gustaba.
Al final resulta ser una lectura entretenida, ha tenido de todo un poco, he disfrutado mucho leyendo.
También me ha gustado mucho el hermano del protagonista, espero seguir leyendo esta serie. :) Y gracias como siempre a mi compi de lectura Paty
January 30, 2022
3.5
Fun roadtrip romance
Heroine in disguise
The ending dragged on a bit too much.
Fun roadtrip romance
Heroine in disguise
The ending dragged on a bit too much.
July 7, 2015
Re-read this, a bit late, but for the historical series group read in WaMRL. I ended up enjoying it quite well once I got time to sit and actually read more than a page here and there. I was reminded of why Jo Beverley was one of my favorite authors. It's been a good while since I read anything of hers, but I'm totally looking forward to getting through the rest of this series at long last! I'm sorely tempted to go ahead and dive into Bryght's book as soon as I finish this review!
This time around, I really loved Cyn's character. His itch to get out from under his eldest brother's smothering care and have an adventure was something I could feel for. I really liked Chastity a lot more this time around. I didn't not like her before, but this time, her character really stuck with me. I loved her fierce pride, and how after her time with Cyn, she learned to stand up to her wicked father, learned to fight for herself.
I liked the on-the-run adventure of it, the disguises they took on, the edge of danger leavened by Cyn's sense of fun and light-heartedness. When he dressed as Mrs. Inchcliff, I had to grin. Really, how many heroes would do that? Despite his devil-may-care attitude, though, he's all business on the inside, even when people think he's not paying attention at all. I liked him a lot. Verity and Nathaniel's HEA was cute, but Chastity's brother Fort interests me. I'm looking forward to getting reacquainted with him, as well as Cyn's siblings, his twin sister Elf, his brothers Brand and Bryght, and of course... Rothgar! Le sigh, he is intriguing! I'mhalfway in love with him already again. All dark and mysterious and hot and stuff and things... In many series there's that one guy who starting from book one is the one that draws my attention and likes to steal the spotlight from the main characters. Villiers from E. James' Desperate Duchesses and Dalziel from S. Laurens' Bastion Club are just two examples that come to mind for me, and Rothgar most definitely is there on that list! I liked how he was the brains behind the plans to 'catch' the villain and restore Chastity to her rightful place in Society. It was somewhat ruthless how he set it all up, but I had to admire him for it. I can't wait to see more of him through the rest of these books.
I really liked how Jo Bev gave me a great feel for the historical period, and I liked the 'old-school' dramatic turns of the story and the wickedness of the villain, his nefarious actions, the depths he stooped to. I enjoyed this book throughout.
My casting (with props to another reviewer who found an excellent Chastity that I'll roll with):
(*My original review, read Sept. 3-7, 2010*)
I really liked this one. I picked it up because I'd read Brand's story years ago, and when I realized it was a whole series, I went seeking them all. It's been a couple of years since I've read Elf's and Bryght's stories, so I was pretty excited when I finally found this one. I liked Cyn, he was charming and optimistic, but good at command and being strong. Surprisingly, he never once got on my nerves. Chastity was ok too, if a little stubborn. The story was mostly quick paced, with the adventures as Chas as Charles being amusing. The ball really got rolling though when the Earl of Walgrave and Chastity's brother Fort found her. Then I couldn't put it down. My favorite character though has to be Rothgar, and now I want to re-read the rest of this series just to see more of him.
This time around, I really loved Cyn's character. His itch to get out from under his eldest brother's smothering care and have an adventure was something I could feel for. I really liked Chastity a lot more this time around. I didn't not like her before, but this time, her character really stuck with me. I loved her fierce pride, and how after her time with Cyn, she learned to stand up to her wicked father, learned to fight for herself.
I liked the on-the-run adventure of it, the disguises they took on, the edge of danger leavened by Cyn's sense of fun and light-heartedness. When he dressed as Mrs. Inchcliff, I had to grin. Really, how many heroes would do that? Despite his devil-may-care attitude, though, he's all business on the inside, even when people think he's not paying attention at all. I liked him a lot. Verity and Nathaniel's HEA was cute, but Chastity's brother Fort interests me. I'm looking forward to getting reacquainted with him, as well as Cyn's siblings, his twin sister Elf, his brothers Brand and Bryght, and of course... Rothgar! Le sigh, he is intriguing! I'm
I really liked how Jo Bev gave me a great feel for the historical period, and I liked the 'old-school' dramatic turns of the story and the wickedness of the villain, his nefarious actions, the depths he stooped to. I enjoyed this book throughout.
My casting (with props to another reviewer who found an excellent Chastity that I'll roll with):
(*My original review, read Sept. 3-7, 2010*)
I really liked this one. I picked it up because I'd read Brand's story years ago, and when I realized it was a whole series, I went seeking them all. It's been a couple of years since I've read Elf's and Bryght's stories, so I was pretty excited when I finally found this one. I liked Cyn, he was charming and optimistic, but good at command and being strong. Surprisingly, he never once got on my nerves. Chastity was ok too, if a little stubborn. The story was mostly quick paced, with the adventures as Chas as Charles being amusing. The ball really got rolling though when the Earl of Walgrave and Chastity's brother Fort found her. Then I couldn't put it down. My favorite character though has to be Rothgar, and now I want to re-read the rest of this series just to see more of him.
January 29, 2022
Complex families and complex plots with treason, adultery and general mayhem. The H and his family embraced so many challenges to protect the h and her family. She's trying to do her best after being betrayed by her father. Loved the H. He great fun and willing to do anything for his heroine.
July 7, 2010
The first time I read this, i was too lazy to write an actual review. This time, I figure my opinions have changed a little, so I might as well. And they have, though ever so slightly.
Chastity Ware is disgraced and spends her time dressed up as a man (especially since her mad father shaved off her hair). When her older sister, Verity and her newborn son come to her in need of her help, Chastity would do anything to protect her, from the horrid brother-in-law and their father. Unfortunately, the means she uses leads her to capture a Malloren, the prettiest one even, Cynric Malloren. Cyn, the youngest of the Malloren clan, is a military man confined by recovery. His boredom entices him of chasing an adventure, which comes in the form of a girl dressed as a young boy. Nearly immediately, he realizes that he is dealing with a woman - one that he finds remarkable attractive to him, despite her masculine demeanor. He agrees to help the sisters to reunite Verity with her long-lost love and goes even further by dressing up as a WOMAN to do so (I love gender-benders and this is the first one that the man does some crossdressing too). And that is only the beginning of the adventure. Circumstances bring the pair into intimate confines and can we seriously think that 2 people attracted to each other could manage to shack up together without doing something about it. It doesn't help that they both end up accidentally attending an orgy (in which we meet other future hero characters in various levels of scandalous behavior). Then there is some bits about a clinically (if that term could be used during that period) insane father who abuses Chastity and her brother, Fortitude (sexy name - I love it, but I don't really like the man) tries to defend her, but still treats her like shit.
I love both the hero and the heroine. The heroine, at times, can be a little tedious. I don't understand why she was so set to not marry Cyn, yet she remained under the guardianship of the Mallorens. Cyn, other than his name, is adorable. I like military men and he's a pretty one who even dons a dress in the name of adventure.
2nd time through, I am still not fascinated by Rothgar (especially since I know his story, which frankly sucked) and I still find Fortitude too cruel, even before his father's death. The man has some serious anger management problems and calling his sister a "trollop" is a mark of an abusive man - emotionally, if not physically.
There are times where I feel like JB just likes to add a lot of melodrama. The Mallorens have no end of drama and Chastity's life is pretty intense and crazy (and she is only 19 years old). The whole thing about abuse and then later about treason, it was all convoluted and honestly, not that fun (but it could just be because I'm reading it a 2nd time - I didn't mind it the first time)
Oh yea, this is a big family series and reminds me of Mary Balogh's Slightly series. For those who have read that series, you would know that the premise is VERY similar (naming of siblings, professions of sibling, attractiveness of sibling, etc.). In all honestly, I can't decide which one I like better, just "slightly" different tastes.
Overall, a wonderful read. I even name it a favorite, which holds some prestige in my collection. Cyn is a great hero - especially for a younger sibling hero and I would forever think that his is the most interesting book in the series.
Chastity Ware is disgraced and spends her time dressed up as a man (especially since her mad father shaved off her hair). When her older sister, Verity and her newborn son come to her in need of her help, Chastity would do anything to protect her, from the horrid brother-in-law and their father. Unfortunately, the means she uses leads her to capture a Malloren, the prettiest one even, Cynric Malloren. Cyn, the youngest of the Malloren clan, is a military man confined by recovery. His boredom entices him of chasing an adventure, which comes in the form of a girl dressed as a young boy. Nearly immediately, he realizes that he is dealing with a woman - one that he finds remarkable attractive to him, despite her masculine demeanor. He agrees to help the sisters to reunite Verity with her long-lost love and goes even further by dressing up as a WOMAN to do so (I love gender-benders and this is the first one that the man does some crossdressing too). And that is only the beginning of the adventure. Circumstances bring the pair into intimate confines and can we seriously think that 2 people attracted to each other could manage to shack up together without doing something about it. It doesn't help that they both end up accidentally attending an orgy (in which we meet other future hero characters in various levels of scandalous behavior). Then there is some bits about a clinically (if that term could be used during that period) insane father who abuses Chastity and her brother, Fortitude (sexy name - I love it, but I don't really like the man) tries to defend her, but still treats her like shit.
I love both the hero and the heroine. The heroine, at times, can be a little tedious. I don't understand why she was so set to not marry Cyn, yet she remained under the guardianship of the Mallorens. Cyn, other than his name, is adorable. I like military men and he's a pretty one who even dons a dress in the name of adventure.
2nd time through, I am still not fascinated by Rothgar (especially since I know his story, which frankly sucked) and I still find Fortitude too cruel, even before his father's death. The man has some serious anger management problems and calling his sister a "trollop" is a mark of an abusive man - emotionally, if not physically.
There are times where I feel like JB just likes to add a lot of melodrama. The Mallorens have no end of drama and Chastity's life is pretty intense and crazy (and she is only 19 years old). The whole thing about abuse and then later about treason, it was all convoluted and honestly, not that fun (but it could just be because I'm reading it a 2nd time - I didn't mind it the first time)
Oh yea, this is a big family series and reminds me of Mary Balogh's Slightly series. For those who have read that series, you would know that the premise is VERY similar (naming of siblings, professions of sibling, attractiveness of sibling, etc.). In all honestly, I can't decide which one I like better, just "slightly" different tastes.
Overall, a wonderful read. I even name it a favorite, which holds some prestige in my collection. Cyn is a great hero - especially for a younger sibling hero and I would forever think that his is the most interesting book in the series.
September 22, 2012
This is my first Malloren book, and I can only say that if the rest of the series is like this, I will be one very happy reader for some time to come. It’s been awhile since I’ve met a villain I hated as heartily as I hated the villain in this tome.
Or a romantic duo that was as much fun.
Handsome as sin Cynric Malloren
is the younger brother of the Marquess of Rothgar. Cyn’s being mollycoddled after a serious illness, and he’s having a bit of a sulk about it.
So when his coach is stopped by highwaymen, he’s keen for a little adventure—more so when he notes that the young fellow holding a gun on him is a little light in the “package” department—ie, doesn’t have one.
Now, what would a young woman be doing robbing a coach in the middle of the day? Cyn doesn’t mind a little mystery along with his adventures, so when the robbers decide to abduct him along with the coach and all his coins and other goodies, he’s willing to be abducted.
He recognizes quickly that he young woman distrusts males in general, and that if he lets her know he’s onto her, she’ll poker up and he’ll never find out anything, so he continues to play along as if the lady is a boy—in fact he has some fun with it. He loves to make young “Charles” blush, so he does it every chance he gets.
It seems that young Charles has a sister, Verity, who is a new mother. And a new widow, as the husband her father forced on her recently died in the arms of his mistress. When her husband's brother became guardian of her son, she quickly realized that Horrible Henry (the uncle) would be the heir if her son were to die—and that HH is well aware of the fact.
So she ran—HH and her father are searching for her, but she’s hoping to get to the young military man she had wanted to marry. The coach hold-up was to obtain the necessary funds and a vehicle for the journey. Cyn decides to help and promises to see that she and her child arrive safely. Secretly, he’s also keen to get closer to young Chas, who intrigues him as no woman ever has.
Charles/Chas/Chastity Ware
is completely ruined, thanks to her father. The earl intended to force her to marry HH. When she refused, he helped the man slip into her room and bed, then arranged for the two of them to be discovered by a number of VIP’s. When she protested her innocence, he hired a midwife to forcibly (while she was held down by her father’s henchman) “examine” her and in the process relieve her of her maidenhead. When she still wouldn’t marry HH, her father and his foul henchman beat her bloody, and when she continued to refuse, he shaved her head
Thanks to daddy, Chas is known as “The Notorious Chastity Ware.” She has no hope of any decent future—what man would have her now? Not that it matters, since she is now a
What follows is a neat “on the run” story, with a nice little side of mystery. Why would the earl force both his daughters to marry venal, nasty little men with no wealth to speak of and no social standing whatever? Mystery buffs will figure it out quickly, but the clues are well spaced and easily dismissed as filler.
In Chas’s penultimate confrontation with her father, he manages to top himself in the evil-assed creepiness department. It’s a truly disturbing scene I won’t easily forget.
I was a little unhappy with one element of the ending—while I didn’t like Chas’s brother Fort (Fortitude), I felt a little bad for him.
Oh, and I dearly loved the names—nothing like protags named Chastity and Cyn (sin). And then there's Beowulf, Marquess of Rothgar (hah!), and Chas's siblings, Verity, Fortitude and Victor (for all his creepily sexualized "punishments" Daddy had his Puritan leanings). And much of the conflict occurs in (I kid you not) the town of Maidenhead.
This is JoBev at her best. I liked the Rogues series, but this is the kind of writing that led me to "follow her brand" (ick, what a corporate way of putting it!).
Or a romantic duo that was as much fun.
Handsome as sin Cynric Malloren
is the younger brother of the Marquess of Rothgar. Cyn’s being mollycoddled after a serious illness, and he’s having a bit of a sulk about it.
So when his coach is stopped by highwaymen, he’s keen for a little adventure—more so when he notes that the young fellow holding a gun on him is a little light in the “package” department—ie, doesn’t have one.
Now, what would a young woman be doing robbing a coach in the middle of the day? Cyn doesn’t mind a little mystery along with his adventures, so when the robbers decide to abduct him along with the coach and all his coins and other goodies, he’s willing to be abducted.
He recognizes quickly that he young woman distrusts males in general, and that if he lets her know he’s onto her, she’ll poker up and he’ll never find out anything, so he continues to play along as if the lady is a boy—in fact he has some fun with it. He loves to make young “Charles” blush, so he does it every chance he gets.
It seems that young Charles has a sister, Verity, who is a new mother. And a new widow, as the husband her father forced on her recently died in the arms of his mistress. When her husband's brother became guardian of her son, she quickly realized that Horrible Henry (the uncle) would be the heir if her son were to die—and that HH is well aware of the fact.
So she ran—HH and her father are searching for her, but she’s hoping to get to the young military man she had wanted to marry. The coach hold-up was to obtain the necessary funds and a vehicle for the journey. Cyn decides to help and promises to see that she and her child arrive safely. Secretly, he’s also keen to get closer to young Chas, who intrigues him as no woman ever has.
Charles/Chas/Chastity Ware
is completely ruined, thanks to her father. The earl intended to force her to marry HH. When she refused, he helped the man slip into her room and bed, then arranged for the two of them to be discovered by a number of VIP’s. When she protested her innocence, he hired a midwife to forcibly (while she was held down by her father’s henchman) “examine” her and in the process relieve her of her maidenhead. When she still wouldn’t marry HH, her father and his foul henchman beat her bloody, and when she continued to refuse, he shaved her head
Thanks to daddy, Chas is known as “The Notorious Chastity Ware.” She has no hope of any decent future—what man would have her now? Not that it matters, since she is now a
What follows is a neat “on the run” story, with a nice little side of mystery. Why would the earl force both his daughters to marry venal, nasty little men with no wealth to speak of and no social standing whatever? Mystery buffs will figure it out quickly, but the clues are well spaced and easily dismissed as filler.
In Chas’s penultimate confrontation with her father, he manages to top himself in the evil-assed creepiness department. It’s a truly disturbing scene I won’t easily forget.
I was a little unhappy with one element of the ending—while I didn’t like Chas’s brother Fort (Fortitude), I felt a little bad for him.
Oh, and I dearly loved the names—nothing like protags named Chastity and Cyn (sin). And then there's Beowulf, Marquess of Rothgar (hah!), and Chas's siblings, Verity, Fortitude and Victor (for all his creepily sexualized "punishments" Daddy had his Puritan leanings). And much of the conflict occurs in (I kid you not) the town of Maidenhead.
This is JoBev at her best. I liked the Rogues series, but this is the kind of writing that led me to "follow her brand" (ick, what a corporate way of putting it!).
July 3, 2019
Ordunque, non avendo mai letto la saga "Malloren", mi sono detta che la riedizione negli Oro era un evidente segno del destino per farlo.
Il primo volume è certamente introduttivo, presenta quelli che sono i favolosi Malloren: al momento quattro maschioni e una ragazza (simpatica), Elf.
Di certo è un libro vivace, con una trama abbastanza rocambolesca, ma non posso dire che mi abbia convinto del tutto.
L'aspetto principale è che trovato tutto un po' eccessivo, con personaggi (tanto) sopra le righe e varie incoerenze sparse qua e là.
Prima di tutto, la scusa per presentare la famiglia è un intrigo che riguarda un'altra: due sorelle, Verity e Chastity sono in fuga dal padre conte (una specie di bruto lascivo) e dal cognato di una (altro bruto lascivo), con alle calcagna anche il fratello Fort (inizialmente pure lui violento) e una serie di sgherri- molestatori sessuali.
Non si comprende bene il motivo, ma per sfuggire le sorelle hanno architettato un unico piano: assalire una carrozza e fare bottino. Fortuna/sfortuna vuole che in carrozza ci sia Cyn, il bellissimo fratello minore dei Malloren che capisce subito che il bandito è un fake e decide di approfittarne.
Da lì varie avventure con Chastity travestita che invece di seguire le istruzioni di Cyn (ad esempio: rimanere dove lui la mette e farsi trarre in salvo), fa un po' per conto suo.
Nel frattempo veniamo a scoprire che Chastity aveva già avuto uno pseudo-flirt con il maggiore dei Malloren, l'enigmatico Rothgar, e tutto si aggroviglia ulteriormente.
La parte più confusa è quella centrale, quando la lady-ragazzo e Cyn arrivano a un festone orgiastico di nobili, e la lady riesce in un'unica notte a interpretare il ragazzo, interpretare la cortigiana Chloe, ritornare se stessa, amare Cyn senza rivelarsi, baciare Rothgart senza rivelarsi, sfuggire al fratello, incontrare una sua nemica (che è mascherata ma che lei riconosce), trovare un documento compromettente e.... ok, riprendiamo fiato.
Qui sono dovuta tornare indietro per capire se mi ero persa qualcosa sul flirt Chastity/Rothgar, perché prima lei sembrava temerlo, poi lui ha forse un interesse, poi lui rivelerà addirittura che la voleva sposare...
[Sigla di qualche soap che si accende e si spegne prepotente in sottofondo...]
Altro elemento "mmh" (su cui non ho ancora deciso) è proprio il maggiore dei Malloren.
Inutile ignorare che lo schema è lo stesso della saga Bedwyn della Balogh: il fratello temuto, eccentrico e protettivo che gestisce le vite dei fratelli minori, rivelandosi a poco a poco.
Di certo, sino ad ora c'è molto "Duca di ghiaccio", con quest'uomo affascinante, sicuro di sé, potentissimo. Forse questo è pure un filo più scandaloso (vedi scena dell'orgia...).
Ancora non l'ho inquadrato, ma mi riservo.
Finale ancora più rocambolesco, con duelli, rivelazioni e omicidi tutti concentrati in poche pagine.
Tre stelle e mezzo, perché alla fine ero un po' confusa e perché a mio parere la storia d'amore è passata totalmente in sordina: quando i due si innamorano esattamente? Mi è sfuggito.
Sarei tentata di proseguire la serie, peraltro (per i due fratelloni con la "B" e per Rothgar).
Il primo volume è certamente introduttivo, presenta quelli che sono i favolosi Malloren: al momento quattro maschioni e una ragazza (simpatica), Elf.
Di certo è un libro vivace, con una trama abbastanza rocambolesca, ma non posso dire che mi abbia convinto del tutto.
L'aspetto principale è che trovato tutto un po' eccessivo, con personaggi (tanto) sopra le righe e varie incoerenze sparse qua e là.
Prima di tutto, la scusa per presentare la famiglia è un intrigo che riguarda un'altra: due sorelle, Verity e Chastity sono in fuga dal padre conte (una specie di bruto lascivo) e dal cognato di una (altro bruto lascivo), con alle calcagna anche il fratello Fort (inizialmente pure lui violento) e una serie di sgherri- molestatori sessuali.
Non si comprende bene il motivo, ma per sfuggire le sorelle hanno architettato un unico piano: assalire una carrozza e fare bottino. Fortuna/sfortuna vuole che in carrozza ci sia Cyn, il bellissimo fratello minore dei Malloren che capisce subito che il bandito è un fake e decide di approfittarne.
Da lì varie avventure con Chastity travestita che invece di seguire le istruzioni di Cyn (ad esempio: rimanere dove lui la mette e farsi trarre in salvo), fa un po' per conto suo.
Nel frattempo veniamo a scoprire che Chastity aveva già avuto uno pseudo-flirt con il maggiore dei Malloren, l'enigmatico Rothgar, e tutto si aggroviglia ulteriormente.
La parte più confusa è quella centrale, quando la lady-ragazzo e Cyn arrivano a un festone orgiastico di nobili, e la lady riesce in un'unica notte a interpretare il ragazzo, interpretare la cortigiana Chloe, ritornare se stessa, amare Cyn senza rivelarsi, baciare Rothgart senza rivelarsi, sfuggire al fratello, incontrare una sua nemica (che è mascherata ma che lei riconosce), trovare un documento compromettente e.... ok, riprendiamo fiato.
Qui sono dovuta tornare indietro per capire se mi ero persa qualcosa sul flirt Chastity/Rothgar, perché prima lei sembrava temerlo, poi lui ha forse un interesse, poi lui rivelerà addirittura che la voleva sposare...
[Sigla di qualche soap che si accende e si spegne prepotente in sottofondo...]
Altro elemento "mmh" (su cui non ho ancora deciso) è proprio il maggiore dei Malloren.
Inutile ignorare che lo schema è lo stesso della saga Bedwyn della Balogh: il fratello temuto, eccentrico e protettivo che gestisce le vite dei fratelli minori, rivelandosi a poco a poco.
Di certo, sino ad ora c'è molto "Duca di ghiaccio", con quest'uomo affascinante, sicuro di sé, potentissimo. Forse questo è pure un filo più scandaloso (vedi scena dell'orgia...).
Ancora non l'ho inquadrato, ma mi riservo.
Finale ancora più rocambolesco, con duelli, rivelazioni e omicidi tutti concentrati in poche pagine.
Tre stelle e mezzo, perché alla fine ero un po' confusa e perché a mio parere la storia d'amore è passata totalmente in sordina: quando i due si innamorano esattamente? Mi è sfuggito.
Sarei tentata di proseguire la serie, peraltro (per i due fratelloni con la "B" e per Rothgar).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2018
#RetoRita
3,5
Ha sido un libro con momentos muy buenos de risa (obviamente sabemos ya cuales ;)), momentos un tanto pesados (dando muchas vueltas a todo y a nada) y momentos duros desde mi punto de vista, donde nos ha mostrado lo cruel que era la vida para una mujer y el terrible pensamiento de propiedad que tenían los hombre de esa época (vamos que no eramos otra cosa que un jarrón o poco más). En este aspecto me ha gustado como lo ha mostrado la autora, sin tapujos y a las claras. Ha mostrado lo hipócrita de la sociedad (esto no ha cambiado mucho en actualidad) y lo injusta que era (más de lo mismo ahora).
En cuanto a los personajes, han sido muy buenos, mejor construido Cyn que Chastity. Aquí, no ha sido muy acertado por parte de la autora (puff, y yo voy de sabelotodo, ains), porque tenía mucho juego. No digo que no esté bien construida, pero me he quedado un poco justilla, no sé, es mi percepción.
Chastity, ha demostrado una valentía, que más quieran algunos hombres que vanaglorian de su hombría. Una mujer que sufre lo indecible y que sale como Ave Fenix.
Cyn, mmmm...... caballero andante, con un sentido de la responsabilidad y de la caballerosidad bastante alto, pero que están en consonancia con su necesidad de vivir aventuras (es como que lo necesita). Ha dado los mejores momentos de risas y sensualidad en el libro.
Los personajes secundarios, han estado bien. Se nos ha ido presentando a los hermanos Mallorens (tengo ganas de llegar a Rothgar, grrr)
No creo que lo vuelva a leer. O al menos no será de los libros que releo durante el año.
3,5
Ha sido un libro con momentos muy buenos de risa (obviamente sabemos ya cuales ;)), momentos un tanto pesados (dando muchas vueltas a todo y a nada) y momentos duros desde mi punto de vista, donde nos ha mostrado lo cruel que era la vida para una mujer y el terrible pensamiento de propiedad que tenían los hombre de esa época (vamos que no eramos otra cosa que un jarrón o poco más). En este aspecto me ha gustado como lo ha mostrado la autora, sin tapujos y a las claras. Ha mostrado lo hipócrita de la sociedad (esto no ha cambiado mucho en actualidad) y lo injusta que era (más de lo mismo ahora).
En cuanto a los personajes, han sido muy buenos, mejor construido Cyn que Chastity. Aquí, no ha sido muy acertado por parte de la autora (puff, y yo voy de sabelotodo, ains), porque tenía mucho juego. No digo que no esté bien construida, pero me he quedado un poco justilla, no sé, es mi percepción.
Chastity, ha demostrado una valentía, que más quieran algunos hombres que vanaglorian de su hombría. Una mujer que sufre lo indecible y que sale como Ave Fenix.
Cyn, mmmm...... caballero andante, con un sentido de la responsabilidad y de la caballerosidad bastante alto, pero que están en consonancia con su necesidad de vivir aventuras (es como que lo necesita). Ha dado los mejores momentos de risas y sensualidad en el libro.
Los personajes secundarios, han estado bien. Se nos ha ido presentando a los hermanos Mallorens (tengo ganas de llegar a Rothgar, grrr)
No creo que lo vuelva a leer. O al menos no será de los libros que releo durante el año.
August 1, 2015
Beverly is a natural storyteller. She had me laughing from the first chapter. This fantastic story took me on an unforgettable journey , both in character growth and exciting plot. Beverly combines period correct settings with an unimaginable story to create a tale that readers will adore. It is simultaneously sweet, sassy, & spicy. And of course, I may never look at food quite the same way again…
I don’t know who’s more priceless, Cyn or Chas. They’re both such unusual individuals. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know these two, and was actually sad when their story ended. They captured my heart immediately, and took me on a wild adventure alongside them. The supporting cast was also quite lively. Beverly developed everyone so completely that I felt as if I had visited with them. I will warn you, however, that this cast of characters will evoke strong reactions in the reader.
This author has the heart of a true bard. Beverly had me entranced from the first page to the last. I’m so glad to have read this novel and can’t wait to read the next in the series.
I don’t know who’s more priceless, Cyn or Chas. They’re both such unusual individuals. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know these two, and was actually sad when their story ended. They captured my heart immediately, and took me on a wild adventure alongside them. The supporting cast was also quite lively. Beverly developed everyone so completely that I felt as if I had visited with them. I will warn you, however, that this cast of characters will evoke strong reactions in the reader.
This author has the heart of a true bard. Beverly had me entranced from the first page to the last. I’m so glad to have read this novel and can’t wait to read the next in the series.
September 21, 2017
Tres estrellitas siendo generosa.
En general el libro deja buen sabor de boca pero, sinceramente, se me ha hecho largo y pesado, demasiado lío y no muy bien contado (puede que lo intente con otro libro de Jo Beverley pero desde luego con éste no me ha conquistado). Parte de una premisa interesante y va mezclando el pisto de Chastity con su relación con Cyn (lo mejor del libro, sin duda). Pero en la parte final para mí la trama seria se vuelve porrera y he acabado leyendo deprisa a ver si terminaba.
Si la escritora no me ha conquistado, el que sí lo ha hecho es Cyn que, aunque me ha parecido un poco chuleta y seguro de sí mismo al principio, demuestra un humor de sinvergüenza que me encanta, si subo puntuación al libro es por lo que me he reído con él (también me ha intrigado mucho su familia, puede que eche un ojillo al resto de la serie por esa curiosidad).
En fin, que es un libro que no me va a dejar huella y del que esperaba algo más, aunque para echar el rato no ha estado mal.
En general el libro deja buen sabor de boca pero, sinceramente, se me ha hecho largo y pesado, demasiado lío y no muy bien contado (puede que lo intente con otro libro de Jo Beverley pero desde luego con éste no me ha conquistado). Parte de una premisa interesante y va mezclando el pisto de Chastity con su relación con Cyn (lo mejor del libro, sin duda). Pero en la parte final para mí la trama seria se vuelve porrera y he acabado leyendo deprisa a ver si terminaba.
Si la escritora no me ha conquistado, el que sí lo ha hecho es Cyn que, aunque me ha parecido un poco chuleta y seguro de sí mismo al principio, demuestra un humor de sinvergüenza que me encanta, si subo puntuación al libro es por lo que me he reído con él (también me ha intrigado mucho su familia, puede que eche un ojillo al resto de la serie por esa curiosidad).
En fin, que es un libro que no me va a dejar huella y del que esperaba algo más, aunque para echar el rato no ha estado mal.
September 14, 2017
15 libro del #RetoRita 2017. Le doy un 3,5 (parece que estoy abonada a esta puntuación últimamente).
Si fuese solo por esa maravilla de hombre que es Cyn y su maquiavélico hermano Rothgar le daría 4 estrellas, pero se me ha hecho un poco largo. A pesar de ello, la trama es interesante, en general está bien desarrollada y la autora ha sabido retratar muy bien lo que tenía que sufrir una mujer en el siglo XVIII. Punto aparte merecen el intercambio de papeles/disfraces entre los protagonistas y la increíble química y diversión que respira su relación. No volveré a mirar un pastelito de la misma manera nunca más, jajaja.
Me ha hecho gracia volver a oír hablar del Club Hellfire, pues también se hace referencia a él en uno de los relatos de las aventuras del Lord John creado por Diana Gabaldon.
Si fuese solo por esa maravilla de hombre que es Cyn y su maquiavélico hermano Rothgar le daría 4 estrellas, pero se me ha hecho un poco largo. A pesar de ello, la trama es interesante, en general está bien desarrollada y la autora ha sabido retratar muy bien lo que tenía que sufrir una mujer en el siglo XVIII. Punto aparte merecen el intercambio de papeles/disfraces entre los protagonistas y la increíble química y diversión que respira su relación. No volveré a mirar un pastelito de la misma manera nunca más, jajaja.
Me ha hecho gracia volver a oír hablar del Club Hellfire, pues también se hace referencia a él en uno de los relatos de las aventuras del Lord John creado por Diana Gabaldon.
February 6, 2017
#RetoRita
Empezando, a ver si con este tengo más suerte
Libro terminado!!! 3.5/5
Por fin un libro que me ha gustado. Este libro me ha entretenido, me ha hecho reír y he disfrutado con los dos protagonistas Cyn y Chastity. No es para llegar al 4 pero le doy algo más de 3.
Empezando, a ver si con este tengo más suerte
Libro terminado!!! 3.5/5
Por fin un libro que me ha gustado. Este libro me ha entretenido, me ha hecho reír y he disfrutado con los dos protagonistas Cyn y Chastity. No es para llegar al 4 pero le doy algo más de 3.
February 9, 2017
Many moons ago, My Lady Notorious by Jo Beverley was, along with Diana Gabaldon's Outlander and Stephanie Laurens' Devil's Bride, my first foray into historical romance. When I read this book for the first time, the 24 year old hero was a few years older than me.. and now this has been reversed. Oh, how time flies..
First published in 1993, My Lady Notorious holds up remarkably well - no insta-love through rape, no terrible casual misogyny, none of the "no means take me I am yours" and the steam level is absolutely scorching. I have a personal rule of generally avoiding HR novels written before 2000 because of aforementioned reasons (I could not stand The Flame and the Flower) but Jo Beverley wrote a delightful gem that primed me for many of my still favourite tropes in historical romance: heroine cross-dressing as a man (I have a soft spot for this trope in k-dramas, too), the hero noticing this but not letting on (ha!), chase and pursuit, strong family bonds, secret identity, masked interactions, noble heroes who look forward to having a family and babies.. *sigh*
The story is immersive and engrossing - once a highborn lady of respected and rich family, Lady Chastity Ware was set up to fall in a scandal she was innocent of and thus has been shunned from family and society. Hair shorn short, she has been banished to the outskirts of her father's property. When her widowed sister Verity comes to her in order to avoid capture by relentless pursuers, Chastity dresses up as a man and holds up a coach so they and Verity's baby can flee together. Travelling in said coach is Lord Cynric Malloren, the youngest member of the Malloren clan who has just recovered from war wounds and itching for adventure. He immediately notices that "Charles" is in fact a woman and but keeps this knowledge to himself as he agrees to help the sisters with their mission. The attraction and between Cyn and Chastity is undeniable and poor Chastity does everything she can to avoid revealing her secret. Other players enter the scene - Verity and Chastity's father, the Earl of Walgrave, who is hunting down his disobedient daughters and who has his own reasons for wanting to keep them in control; their brother Fort who is not sure whom to believe anymore and odious Henry Vernham, who was heavily involved in Chastity's scandal. Oh yes, and suddenly our group of heroes gains support in the Malloren family, who conveniently put all their influence into resolving the situation. It is not just Verity's pursuit and her journey towards safety but also Chastity's old scandal that the family takes up as a welcome challenge to exert their power and skill - with a Malloren, all things are possible.
Each of the players have their own agenda and I really enjoyed learning about the motivations of each character. Despite presenting an united front to outsiders, the Malloren family also had some misunderstandings in the past - Cyn and his oldest brother, the Marquess of Rothgar, had a falling out over Cyn's enlistment and have not been on equal footing since. Cyn's adventures with Castity brought him back to his family and accepting the Malloren support in order to help somebody else made him realize that his brother's help did not make him less of an independent man than before.
Overall, the Malloren family is one of my favourite HR clans - the structure of siblings, cousins or a group of friends being paired off one after another in successive instalments is not a new one but rarely groups hold as much fascination for me like the powerful Mallorens do. Stephanie Laurens' Cynster family operates on a similar level of privilege and power but I vastly prefer the Mallorens. The characters also show an emotional intelligence that touches me and packs a great emotional punch. Combined with sizzling interactions that are never written too flowery, Beverly's writing always leaves me always wanting more.
First published in 1993, My Lady Notorious holds up remarkably well - no insta-love through rape, no terrible casual misogyny, none of the "no means take me I am yours" and the steam level is absolutely scorching. I have a personal rule of generally avoiding HR novels written before 2000 because of aforementioned reasons (I could not stand The Flame and the Flower) but Jo Beverley wrote a delightful gem that primed me for many of my still favourite tropes in historical romance: heroine cross-dressing as a man (I have a soft spot for this trope in k-dramas, too), the hero noticing this but not letting on (ha!), chase and pursuit, strong family bonds, secret identity, masked interactions, noble heroes who look forward to having a family and babies.. *sigh*
The story is immersive and engrossing - once a highborn lady of respected and rich family, Lady Chastity Ware was set up to fall in a scandal she was innocent of and thus has been shunned from family and society. Hair shorn short, she has been banished to the outskirts of her father's property. When her widowed sister Verity comes to her in order to avoid capture by relentless pursuers, Chastity dresses up as a man and holds up a coach so they and Verity's baby can flee together. Travelling in said coach is Lord Cynric Malloren, the youngest member of the Malloren clan who has just recovered from war wounds and itching for adventure. He immediately notices that "Charles" is in fact a woman and but keeps this knowledge to himself as he agrees to help the sisters with their mission. The attraction and between Cyn and Chastity is undeniable and poor Chastity does everything she can to avoid revealing her secret. Other players enter the scene - Verity and Chastity's father, the Earl of Walgrave, who is hunting down his disobedient daughters and who has his own reasons for wanting to keep them in control; their brother Fort who is not sure whom to believe anymore and odious Henry Vernham, who was heavily involved in Chastity's scandal. Oh yes, and suddenly our group of heroes gains support in the Malloren family, who conveniently put all their influence into resolving the situation. It is not just Verity's pursuit and her journey towards safety but also Chastity's old scandal that the family takes up as a welcome challenge to exert their power and skill - with a Malloren, all things are possible.
Each of the players have their own agenda and I really enjoyed learning about the motivations of each character. Despite presenting an united front to outsiders, the Malloren family also had some misunderstandings in the past - Cyn and his oldest brother, the Marquess of Rothgar, had a falling out over Cyn's enlistment and have not been on equal footing since. Cyn's adventures with Castity brought him back to his family and accepting the Malloren support in order to help somebody else made him realize that his brother's help did not make him less of an independent man than before.
Overall, the Malloren family is one of my favourite HR clans - the structure of siblings, cousins or a group of friends being paired off one after another in successive instalments is not a new one but rarely groups hold as much fascination for me like the powerful Mallorens do. Stephanie Laurens' Cynster family operates on a similar level of privilege and power but I vastly prefer the Mallorens. The characters also show an emotional intelligence that touches me and packs a great emotional punch. Combined with sizzling interactions that are never written too flowery, Beverly's writing always leaves me always wanting more.
April 12, 2017
3 and ½ Stars - Lady Highwayman Captures a Willing Aristocrat in a Bawdy Georgian Romp
Set in the late 18th century (1761 from the context of the story), this tells of Lady Chastity Ware, who with her widowed sister, Verity, is on the run from her father and Verity’s brother-in-law, who want Verity’s child and to force the sisters into unwanted marriages. Verity would have the man she loves and Chastity, having been ruined by her father, will have no one.
In need of money, Chastity dresses as a man and stops a coach on the road. But the man she robs and forces to drive the carriage is Cyn Malloren, a veteran of the Battle of Louisbourg in Quebec (which took place in 1758) and the brother of the ruthless Marquess of Rothgar. Cyn, recovered from his war wounds, now wants adventure. When he realizes he’s been captured by a woman, disguised as a man, he is intrigued and decides to cooperate.
They only know each other for a few days when Cyn is lusting after Chastity (still disguised as a man) and thinking of marriage. When he realizes she is the ruined Lady Chastity Ware, neither his lust nor his intentions toward her change. It seemed unbelievable and a bit rushed to me. As one reviewer said: “Nowhere do I see any convincing falling in love, just sexual attraction.” Add to that Beverly’s inclusion of an orgy with the bawdy jokes to go with it and the story seemed to be headed in a bizarre direction. The ending, while clearly a set up for the series, had some great dialog and action, worth waiting for.
Beverly writes well, no doubt of it, but I did not find the story compelling. It was difficult to rate. The writing is great but the story disappointed. There are some references to historical incidents that are going on in the background, adding authenticity, but we don’t see that action. As a heroine, Chastity seems clueless, doing very stupid things over and over. Cyn is amusing and, at times, brave but not nearly as intriguing as his brother, Rothgar.
All in all, it’s a Georgian romp with some great dialog but also some improbable elements. Still, fans of Beverly will no doubt love it.
Set in the late 18th century (1761 from the context of the story), this tells of Lady Chastity Ware, who with her widowed sister, Verity, is on the run from her father and Verity’s brother-in-law, who want Verity’s child and to force the sisters into unwanted marriages. Verity would have the man she loves and Chastity, having been ruined by her father, will have no one.
In need of money, Chastity dresses as a man and stops a coach on the road. But the man she robs and forces to drive the carriage is Cyn Malloren, a veteran of the Battle of Louisbourg in Quebec (which took place in 1758) and the brother of the ruthless Marquess of Rothgar. Cyn, recovered from his war wounds, now wants adventure. When he realizes he’s been captured by a woman, disguised as a man, he is intrigued and decides to cooperate.
They only know each other for a few days when Cyn is lusting after Chastity (still disguised as a man) and thinking of marriage. When he realizes she is the ruined Lady Chastity Ware, neither his lust nor his intentions toward her change. It seemed unbelievable and a bit rushed to me. As one reviewer said: “Nowhere do I see any convincing falling in love, just sexual attraction.” Add to that Beverly’s inclusion of an orgy with the bawdy jokes to go with it and the story seemed to be headed in a bizarre direction. The ending, while clearly a set up for the series, had some great dialog and action, worth waiting for.
Beverly writes well, no doubt of it, but I did not find the story compelling. It was difficult to rate. The writing is great but the story disappointed. There are some references to historical incidents that are going on in the background, adding authenticity, but we don’t see that action. As a heroine, Chastity seems clueless, doing very stupid things over and over. Cyn is amusing and, at times, brave but not nearly as intriguing as his brother, Rothgar.
All in all, it’s a Georgian romp with some great dialog but also some improbable elements. Still, fans of Beverly will no doubt love it.
June 4, 2025
3,75. Me gustó, creo que tiene cosas bastante originales que la hacen diferente a otros romances históricos, pero se me hizo un poco larga hacia al final.
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