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The House of Rohan #2
Reckless
9 Audio CDs / 11 hrs
Adrian Alistair Rohan lost his faith, and now, a dedicated member of the depraved Heavenly Host, he loses himself in his only pleasure: the seduction and debauchery of beautiful women. Rich, charming and devastatingly skilled in the arts of love, he never fails in his conquests…until Charlotte Spenser.
Adrian Alistair Rohan lost his faith, and now, a dedicated member of the depraved Heavenly Host, he loses himself in his only pleasure: the seduction and debauchery of beautiful women. Rich, charming and devastatingly skilled in the arts of love, he never fails in his conquests…until Charlotte Spenser.
Charlotte is facing a desolate, passionless future, none of which matters to Adrian, who imagines her a toy until better prey arrives. But beneath her drab exterior, Charlotte is a woman as enchanting as she is brilliant and, lured into Adrian's world, soon she becomes the seducer, and he the seduced….
11 pages, Audio CD
First published January 1, 2010
161 people are currently reading
2204 people want to read
About the author
Anne Stuart
203 books2,064 followersAnne Stuart is a grandmaster of the genre, winner of Romance Writers of America's prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, survivor of more than thirty-five years in the romance business, and still just keeps getting better.
Her first novel was Barrett's Hill, a gothic romance published by Ballantine in 1974 when Anne had just turned 25. Since then she's written more gothics, regencies, romantic suspense, romantic adventure, series romance, suspense, historical romance, paranormal and mainstream contemporary romance for publishers such as Doubleday, Harlequin, Silhouette, Avon, Zebra, St. Martins Press, Berkley, Dell, Pocket Books and Fawcett.
She’s won numerous awards, appeared on most bestseller lists, and speaks all over the country. Her general outrageousness has gotten her on Entertainment Tonight, as well as in Vogue, People, USA Today, Women’s Day and countless other national newspapers and magazines.
When she’s not traveling, she’s at home in Northern Vermont with her luscious husband of thirty-six years, an empty nest, three cats, four sewing machines, and one Springer Spaniel, and when she’s not working she’s watching movies, listening to rock and roll (preferably Japanese) and spending far too much time quilting.
Anne Stuart also writes as Kristina Douglas.
Her first novel was Barrett's Hill, a gothic romance published by Ballantine in 1974 when Anne had just turned 25. Since then she's written more gothics, regencies, romantic suspense, romantic adventure, series romance, suspense, historical romance, paranormal and mainstream contemporary romance for publishers such as Doubleday, Harlequin, Silhouette, Avon, Zebra, St. Martins Press, Berkley, Dell, Pocket Books and Fawcett.
She’s won numerous awards, appeared on most bestseller lists, and speaks all over the country. Her general outrageousness has gotten her on Entertainment Tonight, as well as in Vogue, People, USA Today, Women’s Day and countless other national newspapers and magazines.
When she’s not traveling, she’s at home in Northern Vermont with her luscious husband of thirty-six years, an empty nest, three cats, four sewing machines, and one Springer Spaniel, and when she’s not working she’s watching movies, listening to rock and roll (preferably Japanese) and spending far too much time quilting.
Anne Stuart also writes as Kristina Douglas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 427 reviews
December 30, 2020
2nd reread of the book via audiobook in October 2020
This was a very good audiobook. I loved hearing the narrator give the characters life. Adrian is definitely a rake for sure. I loved that Charlotte met him head on. Lovely sexy time, and the rapturous joy of two people falling in love when it seems like a very bad idea indeed. Still a five star read for me!
*************************************
This veteran historical romance novel-reader asks this question: Do we really need any more rake heroes? No! They make me yawn and roll my eyes. But wait! What about Adrian, Viscount Rohan? Okay, maybe we can have a few rake heroes, as long as they are masterfully brought to life as Ms. Anne Stuart did with Adrian.
Yes, yes, yes! I know you will wave a hand at me and say, "You like all her books, so your opinion isn't really valid." I guess if you feel that way, you should probably stop reading this review. But, if you want to hear me out, then keep reading.
Once again, I was in raptures. Adrian is a man who doesn't deserve a woman like Charlotte. He knows it, she knows it, we know it when we're reading this story. Heck, Ms. Stuart knew it. But, I wanted him to have Charlotte so bad. Usually when the hero is an arrogant dog, I want the heroine to take his heart and stomp on it into a mushy consistency that resembles a tomato dropped from the second story of a building. Yes, I am vindictive like that. With Reckless, I was reading feverishly, anxious to see how this predator would get his prey. Adrian was so bad, in a very good way. I loved the cat and mouse game he played, how he stalked Charlotte into the garden of no return (at least if you wanted to stay celibate). I love bad boys, but I usually love the bad boys who are physically dangerous, not the skirt-chasers. But this is one bad rake that I really loved.
Another reason that I wanted Adrian and Charlotte to get together so much was because Charlotte was so in love with him. I thought she should have this man she pined for so badly (but always in a dignified way). I didn't want her heart broken, or for her to be used and abandoned, but I wanted her to have a little happiness in her life. In the scenes where Charlotte's loneliness and feelings were so poignantly displayed by Ms. Stuart’s writing, I felt my heart clench. Charlotte didn’t wear her heart on her sleeve, but Adrian knew and so did her cousin Lina. She was the consummate wallflower, awash in her isolation, in a world of perfect budding beauties; her on the wrong side of thirty, six-foot tall, and freckled, and penniless to boot. Normally I want to give the heroines who chase after the rake a good slap on the back of their head to bring them to their senses. But, in this case, I wanted them to end up together. Even so, I liked the fact that in this book, Adrian pretty much did all the pursuing; it was just up to Charlotte to surrender, and boy did Adrian make that an easy thing to do.
Their scenes of intimacy were so sexy, and so beautiful. It’s hard to describe. You could think of it as sex scenes, but there was another level there. A connection that was forming between them that I oftentimes find missing with other books with this theme. Those stolen interludes were gratifying to me, even if I knew that their time together was illicit and might end badly.
I loved that this was just the beginning of their courtship. Adrian had to go through a sea change. It’s easy to say that the right sex partner will change a rake’s heart. I don’t believe that, and I never will. But, I could totally believe that Adrian’s time with Charlotte had changed him. Something clicked inside of him when it came to Charlotte. I wonder if she was there in his mind the whole time, but she was marked ‘off-limits’ for whatever reason; and when he saw her at the Heavenly Host Revel, he decided he was going to take what he truly wanted, and damn the consequences. Even though it was so wrong of him to seduce Charlotte, I ain’t mad at him.
Being a stubborn knucklehead, Adrian does some stupid things in his relationship with Charlotte, and they both know it. I loved how Charlotte wasn’t afraid to stand up to Adrian and tell him he was being stupid. She wasn’t like putty in his hands, well at least not all the time. That powerful attraction between them held sway, but not to the point of idiocy; and, as I always demand in a good romance, it was mutual. If Charlotte was a fool for love, so was Adrian.
The secondary romance was so good. I loved Lina and Simon together. I wanted to cry for Lina and for what she’d gone through in her marriage, and how it had sent her into a very disagreeable (at least for me) lifestyle. I can’t decide if I would have liked it better if she enjoyed it or not. If I don’t like promiscuous heroes (and I don’t), I definitely don’t like lascivious heroines. With any topic that is not to my taste, it has to be done well, and it was here. I loved and respected Lina, even if I didn’t like the choices she made. This character was in Anne Stuart’s hands, and I was sighing and hoping that she would get her HEA. I loved Simon too. I liked that he called Lina on her nonsense, and she did the same for him. She opened his heart to love, and he did the same for her. They had a powerful attraction that opened the door for something more. I could totally see this couple having a happy life together, because they had a connection that surpassed the superficiality of their disparate roles in society.
I can’t say there is anything I didn’t love about this story. I mean, the suspense part wasn’t that necessary to the romance (in my mind), although it tied into the story. I don’t read romance of this sort for suspense, so I was more fixated on the progression of Charlotte/Adrian and Lina/Simon’s romances than that aspect. I loved seeing Francis, now Marquess of Haverstoke, and Elinor, his Marchioness, again, who are Adrian’s parents. I like how Francis is now a stern father, and Elinor a loving, indulgent mother. It was kind of interesting seeing Adrian getting called on the hot seat in front of his father. Made me laugh!
Gosh, I adored this book. It was a rapturous romance, and with a theme I usually don’t like. I am just not into rakes. But, some authors can deliver a story of a rake and the good woman who turns him around so well, that I am in, hook, line and sinker. Anne Stuart is my favorite author of all time for a reason. I think I’d better shut up now. I may end just babbling incoherently about how happy I feel when I read one of Ms. Stuart’s books. She only gets better (which is quite a feat), in my humble opinion. This one definitely goes on my best of 2010 list.
This was a very good audiobook. I loved hearing the narrator give the characters life. Adrian is definitely a rake for sure. I loved that Charlotte met him head on. Lovely sexy time, and the rapturous joy of two people falling in love when it seems like a very bad idea indeed. Still a five star read for me!
*************************************
This veteran historical romance novel-reader asks this question: Do we really need any more rake heroes? No! They make me yawn and roll my eyes. But wait! What about Adrian, Viscount Rohan? Okay, maybe we can have a few rake heroes, as long as they are masterfully brought to life as Ms. Anne Stuart did with Adrian.
Yes, yes, yes! I know you will wave a hand at me and say, "You like all her books, so your opinion isn't really valid." I guess if you feel that way, you should probably stop reading this review. But, if you want to hear me out, then keep reading.
Once again, I was in raptures. Adrian is a man who doesn't deserve a woman like Charlotte. He knows it, she knows it, we know it when we're reading this story. Heck, Ms. Stuart knew it. But, I wanted him to have Charlotte so bad. Usually when the hero is an arrogant dog, I want the heroine to take his heart and stomp on it into a mushy consistency that resembles a tomato dropped from the second story of a building. Yes, I am vindictive like that. With Reckless, I was reading feverishly, anxious to see how this predator would get his prey. Adrian was so bad, in a very good way. I loved the cat and mouse game he played, how he stalked Charlotte into the garden of no return (at least if you wanted to stay celibate). I love bad boys, but I usually love the bad boys who are physically dangerous, not the skirt-chasers. But this is one bad rake that I really loved.
Another reason that I wanted Adrian and Charlotte to get together so much was because Charlotte was so in love with him. I thought she should have this man she pined for so badly (but always in a dignified way). I didn't want her heart broken, or for her to be used and abandoned, but I wanted her to have a little happiness in her life. In the scenes where Charlotte's loneliness and feelings were so poignantly displayed by Ms. Stuart’s writing, I felt my heart clench. Charlotte didn’t wear her heart on her sleeve, but Adrian knew and so did her cousin Lina. She was the consummate wallflower, awash in her isolation, in a world of perfect budding beauties; her on the wrong side of thirty, six-foot tall, and freckled, and penniless to boot. Normally I want to give the heroines who chase after the rake a good slap on the back of their head to bring them to their senses. But, in this case, I wanted them to end up together. Even so, I liked the fact that in this book, Adrian pretty much did all the pursuing; it was just up to Charlotte to surrender, and boy did Adrian make that an easy thing to do.
Their scenes of intimacy were so sexy, and so beautiful. It’s hard to describe. You could think of it as sex scenes, but there was another level there. A connection that was forming between them that I oftentimes find missing with other books with this theme. Those stolen interludes were gratifying to me, even if I knew that their time together was illicit and might end badly.
I loved that this was just the beginning of their courtship. Adrian had to go through a sea change. It’s easy to say that the right sex partner will change a rake’s heart. I don’t believe that, and I never will. But, I could totally believe that Adrian’s time with Charlotte had changed him. Something clicked inside of him when it came to Charlotte. I wonder if she was there in his mind the whole time, but she was marked ‘off-limits’ for whatever reason; and when he saw her at the Heavenly Host Revel, he decided he was going to take what he truly wanted, and damn the consequences. Even though it was so wrong of him to seduce Charlotte, I ain’t mad at him.
Being a stubborn knucklehead, Adrian does some stupid things in his relationship with Charlotte, and they both know it. I loved how Charlotte wasn’t afraid to stand up to Adrian and tell him he was being stupid. She wasn’t like putty in his hands, well at least not all the time. That powerful attraction between them held sway, but not to the point of idiocy; and, as I always demand in a good romance, it was mutual. If Charlotte was a fool for love, so was Adrian.
The secondary romance was so good. I loved Lina and Simon together. I wanted to cry for Lina and for what she’d gone through in her marriage, and how it had sent her into a very disagreeable (at least for me) lifestyle. I can’t decide if I would have liked it better if she enjoyed it or not. If I don’t like promiscuous heroes (and I don’t), I definitely don’t like lascivious heroines. With any topic that is not to my taste, it has to be done well, and it was here. I loved and respected Lina, even if I didn’t like the choices she made. This character was in Anne Stuart’s hands, and I was sighing and hoping that she would get her HEA. I loved Simon too. I liked that he called Lina on her nonsense, and she did the same for him. She opened his heart to love, and he did the same for her. They had a powerful attraction that opened the door for something more. I could totally see this couple having a happy life together, because they had a connection that surpassed the superficiality of their disparate roles in society.
I can’t say there is anything I didn’t love about this story. I mean, the suspense part wasn’t that necessary to the romance (in my mind), although it tied into the story. I don’t read romance of this sort for suspense, so I was more fixated on the progression of Charlotte/Adrian and Lina/Simon’s romances than that aspect. I loved seeing Francis, now Marquess of Haverstoke, and Elinor, his Marchioness, again, who are Adrian’s parents. I like how Francis is now a stern father, and Elinor a loving, indulgent mother. It was kind of interesting seeing Adrian getting called on the hot seat in front of his father. Made me laugh!
Gosh, I adored this book. It was a rapturous romance, and with a theme I usually don’t like. I am just not into rakes. But, some authors can deliver a story of a rake and the good woman who turns him around so well, that I am in, hook, line and sinker. Anne Stuart is my favorite author of all time for a reason. I think I’d better shut up now. I may end just babbling incoherently about how happy I feel when I read one of Ms. Stuart’s books. She only gets better (which is quite a feat), in my humble opinion. This one definitely goes on my best of 2010 list.
September 12, 2023
I know I am an outlier here, but this book just didn't click for me. I can suspend disbelief and go with the story, but the first half of the book was a long (really 50%) seduction and sex romp of a 30 yo spinster who had a mad crush on our bad boy 28 yo hero. The club was a repeat of the pervious book only a London branch of naughtiness. The bodice ripper sex was HOT bordering on erotica. The back story of Lina (side character) was the only one that struck a chord with me. The ending was lovely but....My negatives: Adrian & Charlotte have nothing, and I mean nothing in common. They danced once years ago and ran into each other again recently. Charlotte acted much younger than 30 I would have thought perhaps 19 with a tstl moment at the end of the book. Yes, I plan on continuing with the series but am in no rush.
July 9, 2010
Setting: 1804 England
Series: #2 of the House of Rohan Trilogy. Can be read stand alone.
Sensuality: NC-17
Tropes: Older woman, the Rake & Spinster, There is no such thing as a frigid woman, and best of all, No-I-will-not-marry-you-even-tho-I-am-carrying-your-baby-because-you're-not-in-love-with-me
Plot: Charlotte is a 30 year old spinster and poor relation living with her cousin, Lina. Charlotte has the hots for Adrian, Viscount Rohan, the greatest rake in all of bloody England. For convoluted reasons, Lina decides that it would educate Charlotte to view all the fornication that occur during one of the three day orgies at the Heavenly Host (a thinly veiled Hellfire Club) house party. Charlotte goes as an observor only but guess who is there? Adrian and Charlotte then engage in a 48 hour boink-a-thon, after which he might have possibly shoved Charlotte off a cliff as his "tip". Strike that. Actually, his tip turns out to be a little nugget in her cave. (Wink wink, nudge nudge.)
There is also a secondary romance involving Lina & the local parson and a suspense plot that is marginally thrown in there.
Ramblings: According to my records, I have read seven of Stuart's previous works. Altho I don't consider myself a fan, I 've always admired her clean, almost terse writing style which I think is especially suited to her romantic suspense novels. For those who have read her earlier historicals from the 1990s like the much-admired A Rose at Midnight, Reckless in comparison, is a much faster, more wallpaper-ish read. For about the first 250 pages, I was enjoying this very sexy story until I realized that Adrian & Charlotte do not have much of a connection beyond great sex . . . and aren't going to.
Stuart's specialty is the Bad Boy Hero so Adrian the Rake is a character she can do in her sleep. And probably did. He has no discernable characteristics beyond being beautiful, dumb, and slutty.
This is where I find the secondary romance bothersome. It is problematic because of the following - (1) I don't like secondary romances as a rule. (2) Like most secondary romances, it is better and more interesting than the primary romance. Charlotte's cousin, Lina, is arguably the most interesting character in the book. She is a widow who survived a horribly abusive marriage and unapologetically participates in the Heavenly Hosts orgies. Since she can't have sex with the reformed sinner-turned-parson (think Russell Crowe's preacher in The Quick and the Dead , yum!), they do a heck lot more talking and communicating than Adrian & Charlotte. (3) I couldn't help thinking that if the secondary romance wasn't present, maybe more depth could have been added to the primary romance, what there was of it.
As the story petered to the end, I was tempted to grade this a C- but decided that I might be a little harsh. After all, there is really nothing wrong with a shallow, smoothly written, by-the-numbers, sexy historical. It's not Stuart's fault that I wanted more.
Grade: C
Series: #2 of the House of Rohan Trilogy. Can be read stand alone.
Sensuality: NC-17
Tropes: Older woman, the Rake & Spinster, There is no such thing as a frigid woman, and best of all, No-I-will-not-marry-you-even-tho-I-am-carrying-your-baby-because-you're-not-in-love-with-me
Plot: Charlotte is a 30 year old spinster and poor relation living with her cousin, Lina. Charlotte has the hots for Adrian, Viscount Rohan, the greatest rake in all of bloody England. For convoluted reasons, Lina decides that it would educate Charlotte to view all the fornication that occur during one of the three day orgies at the Heavenly Host (a thinly veiled Hellfire Club) house party. Charlotte goes as an observor only but guess who is there? Adrian and Charlotte then engage in a 48 hour boink-a-thon, after which he might have possibly shoved Charlotte off a cliff as his "tip". Strike that. Actually, his tip turns out to be a little nugget in her cave. (Wink wink, nudge nudge.)
There is also a secondary romance involving Lina & the local parson and a suspense plot that is marginally thrown in there.
Ramblings: According to my records, I have read seven of Stuart's previous works. Altho I don't consider myself a fan, I 've always admired her clean, almost terse writing style which I think is especially suited to her romantic suspense novels. For those who have read her earlier historicals from the 1990s like the much-admired A Rose at Midnight, Reckless in comparison, is a much faster, more wallpaper-ish read. For about the first 250 pages, I was enjoying this very sexy story until I realized that Adrian & Charlotte do not have much of a connection beyond great sex . . . and aren't going to.
Stuart's specialty is the Bad Boy Hero so Adrian the Rake is a character she can do in her sleep. And probably did. He has no discernable characteristics beyond being beautiful, dumb, and slutty.
This is where I find the secondary romance bothersome. It is problematic because of the following - (1) I don't like secondary romances as a rule. (2) Like most secondary romances, it is better and more interesting than the primary romance. Charlotte's cousin, Lina, is arguably the most interesting character in the book. She is a widow who survived a horribly abusive marriage and unapologetically participates in the Heavenly Hosts orgies. Since she can't have sex with the reformed sinner-turned-parson (think Russell Crowe's preacher in The Quick and the Dead , yum!), they do a heck lot more talking and communicating than Adrian & Charlotte. (3) I couldn't help thinking that if the secondary romance wasn't present, maybe more depth could have been added to the primary romance, what there was of it.
As the story petered to the end, I was tempted to grade this a C- but decided that I might be a little harsh. After all, there is really nothing wrong with a shallow, smoothly written, by-the-numbers, sexy historical. It's not Stuart's fault that I wanted more.
Grade: C
October 18, 2010
5 stars – Historical Romance
As much as I enjoyed Ruthless, this left me even more satisfied, mainly because I thought it had a better story and I felt more of a connection between the H/h, even if it was often antagonistic.
Adrian, Viscount Rohan, son of the H/h from Ruthless, is as deliciously sexy, devilishly wicked, and utterly dissipated as his notorious father. A tall, awkward, redheaded, freckled, bespectacled, bluestocking, virgin spinster like Charlotte should hold little appeal to a rakehell with his depraved experience and lusty appetites, but for some unfathomable reason, he finds it impossible to resist or dismiss her. Adrian demands Charlotte's acquiescence and undertakes teaching her all the naughty delights of sexual pleasure, but can she make the cynical libertine surrender his heart?
Reckless is another decadently dark, lushly erotic read in the sexy House of Rohan series with a sinfully delectable hero who makes this a sensual, luscious treat to savor like the finest chocolate. 5 stars!
As much as I enjoyed Ruthless, this left me even more satisfied, mainly because I thought it had a better story and I felt more of a connection between the H/h, even if it was often antagonistic.
Adrian, Viscount Rohan, son of the H/h from Ruthless, is as deliciously sexy, devilishly wicked, and utterly dissipated as his notorious father. A tall, awkward, redheaded, freckled, bespectacled, bluestocking, virgin spinster like Charlotte should hold little appeal to a rakehell with his depraved experience and lusty appetites, but for some unfathomable reason, he finds it impossible to resist or dismiss her. Adrian demands Charlotte's acquiescence and undertakes teaching her all the naughty delights of sexual pleasure, but can she make the cynical libertine surrender his heart?
Reckless is another decadently dark, lushly erotic read in the sexy House of Rohan series with a sinfully delectable hero who makes this a sensual, luscious treat to savor like the finest chocolate. 5 stars!
January 29, 2018
I know this have many stellar ratings, but I was not impressed.
The first half of the book is all about lusting and f*cking and lusting and f*ucking some more. I admit that I skipped pages because of too much inner lusting...
The only character I enjoyed is Montague: he's dying, but maybe because of that, he's the only one with his eyes open and his mind functioning.
All the other characters are completly and willingly blind.
Where, in other HRs, the point is to save her virtue, here the totally opposite is true.
Mostly is was bored...
The first half of the book is all about lusting and f*cking and lusting and f*ucking some more. I admit that I skipped pages because of too much inner lusting...
The only character I enjoyed is Montague: he's dying, but maybe because of that, he's the only one with his eyes open and his mind functioning.
All the other characters are completly and willingly blind.
Where, in other HRs, the point is to save her virtue, here the totally opposite is true.
Mostly is was bored...
May 27, 2018
5 STARS
Well, I loved this one almost as much as the first one. The only thing that bothered me at all, if you could call it that, was it's similarity to book one at the end. Otherwise, I'm all in for the series.
The characters are just fabulous, male and female alike. Anne Stuart always provides us with some delightfully wicked male heroes. And she opposes them with equally strong willed and wonderfully spirited heroines. I can't wait to see who will be next.
And if bum's offend you, I apologize, but this was a PERFECT photo for the story... If I get banned from GR's for posting it, so be it. :)
"I'm not... pretty. Some of the most beautiful women in the world are here and available tonight, and I'm quite... ordinary. You don't want to waste your time with a plain elderly spinster."
"Perhaps I was looking for something different?"
"I'm not worth the trouble, I assure you."
Well, I loved this one almost as much as the first one. The only thing that bothered me at all, if you could call it that, was it's similarity to book one at the end. Otherwise, I'm all in for the series.
The characters are just fabulous, male and female alike. Anne Stuart always provides us with some delightfully wicked male heroes. And she opposes them with equally strong willed and wonderfully spirited heroines. I can't wait to see who will be next.
And if bum's offend you, I apologize, but this was a PERFECT photo for the story... If I get banned from GR's for posting it, so be it. :)
November 11, 2010
The stars were in alignment for this book. I sat down with it and just expected to read for an hour or so before bed. But that ended up turning into reading until 4:30 am! (luckily I had a holiday the next day) Reckless was just perfect for my mood. Everything just seemed so right about it. There was humor, romance, a little angst, and some sexy scenes. *sigh* Perfect for my mood.
While I enjoyed the first book, Ruthless, I also saw a lot of flaws. I hadn't felt an urgent need to try out the next two books, even though I had already bought them. But then one of my friends, Quinn, started posting all these excellent quotes in her status updates. (I am a total sucker for quotes) So I just had to start this book!
Reckless felt a lot smoother than Ruthless. I've only read four so far, but I've noticed the trend. That doesn't mean that Adrian is a saint. He's nowhere near that. He plays with the heroine and manipulates her to get what he wants out of her. He also is a weenie and runs at the slightest sign of emotion.
I actually think that his actions after they developed an attachment were what bumped him up in my eyes. He played his games and acted like an ass, and she wouldn't take it. Charlotte had some quite brilliant scenes where she shoved Adrian's behavior back down his throat. I loved it. But while Adrian played the game, he played it for a reason. And he knew what he was doing and he did it quite deliberately. But then he'd get his way and discover he didn't want it that way after all. I loved that he would make himself play his game, but then he would come back because he just couldn't resist, even if he didn't like what that meant in the long run. He just felt more open than any of the other heroes I've read by the author. (I don't mean open verbally, I mean internally)
Charlotte felt like she meshed well with Adrian. There's a scene in a coach where Charlotte shoves Adrian's BS back down his throat. I really felt she came into her own strength then. She let him play his game, but she won in the end. It felt like a sweet, sweet victory for me. ^_^ I really liked that she didn't have a drama fit over her relationship with Adrian. I do wish that she had been more open during some of the sex scenes though. I'm not the biggest fan of heroines who say no but really mean yes and just want to be talked into it. I got that vibe from her sometimes. It was pretty easy for me to shrug off, though.
I just liked how practical Charlotte was. I also liked that she wasn't concerned with society's opinion and that she didn't base her actions around what they would think. Even though she was naive and a bit starry eyed she still came across as strong. I could see her vulnerability, but she never let her emotions control her to the point that she debased herself for anyone.
I felt that the author did a much better job with the ending of this book. It didn't feel abbreviated like Ruthless did. I love me some comeuppance, and I felt that I got quite a satisfying portion of it in this book.
Here's hoping that I like the third book as much!
While I enjoyed the first book, Ruthless, I also saw a lot of flaws. I hadn't felt an urgent need to try out the next two books, even though I had already bought them. But then one of my friends, Quinn, started posting all these excellent quotes in her status updates. (I am a total sucker for quotes) So I just had to start this book!
Reckless felt a lot smoother than Ruthless. I've only read four so far, but I've noticed the trend. That doesn't mean that Adrian is a saint. He's nowhere near that. He plays with the heroine and manipulates her to get what he wants out of her. He also is a weenie and runs at the slightest sign of emotion.
I actually think that his actions after they developed an attachment were what bumped him up in my eyes. He played his games and acted like an ass, and she wouldn't take it. Charlotte had some quite brilliant scenes where she shoved Adrian's behavior back down his throat. I loved it. But while Adrian played the game, he played it for a reason. And he knew what he was doing and he did it quite deliberately. But then he'd get his way and discover he didn't want it that way after all. I loved that he would make himself play his game, but then he would come back because he just couldn't resist, even if he didn't like what that meant in the long run. He just felt more open than any of the other heroes I've read by the author. (I don't mean open verbally, I mean internally)
Charlotte felt like she meshed well with Adrian. There's a scene in a coach where Charlotte shoves Adrian's BS back down his throat. I really felt she came into her own strength then. She let him play his game, but she won in the end. It felt like a sweet, sweet victory for me. ^_^ I really liked that she didn't have a drama fit over her relationship with Adrian. I do wish that she had been more open during some of the sex scenes though. I'm not the biggest fan of heroines who say no but really mean yes and just want to be talked into it. I got that vibe from her sometimes. It was pretty easy for me to shrug off, though.
I just liked how practical Charlotte was. I also liked that she wasn't concerned with society's opinion and that she didn't base her actions around what they would think. Even though she was naive and a bit starry eyed she still came across as strong. I could see her vulnerability, but she never let her emotions control her to the point that she debased herself for anyone.
I felt that the author did a much better job with the ending of this book. It didn't feel abbreviated like Ruthless did. I love me some comeuppance, and I felt that I got quite a satisfying portion of it in this book.
Here's hoping that I like the third book as much!
November 29, 2020
"Reckless" is the story of Charlotte and Adrian.
Around 7 years ago I had read the first two books of the series, the latter of which discomforted me so much that I left the rest in my tbr. As I was binge watch my favorite Pakistani television drama, I randomly found this book and decided to read it... only to realize why I might have paused after book one.
I love smut. I love anal. I love kink. This was a new level of debauchery and violence.
There are detailed descriptions of beatings and rape in this book (I think it was in book one too)- which shook me again. Furthermore, the hero had zero morals and slept with anything walking- male/ female and I cannot discount animals. He deflowers the heroine, abandons her, goes and shags OW, wants the heroine back and kidnaps her again. Yes the sex scenes were well written- Ms Stuart is an expert in them- but the thought of having intercourse with such a hero made me throw up in my mouth. I felt he had all STDs in the world and he was a drug addict too. The second half of the book was the horny hero being desperate, and it did make me laugh because yes, it was that insane. There is a secondary romance between Lina and Monty, but I wasn't paying attention to it tbh. This was stupid funny and gross.
I am speechless.
Unsafe
2.5/5
Around 7 years ago I had read the first two books of the series, the latter of which discomforted me so much that I left the rest in my tbr. As I was binge watch my favorite Pakistani television drama, I randomly found this book and decided to read it... only to realize why I might have paused after book one.
I love smut. I love anal. I love kink. This was a new level of debauchery and violence.
There are detailed descriptions of beatings and rape in this book (I think it was in book one too)- which shook me again. Furthermore, the hero had zero morals and slept with anything walking- male/ female and I cannot discount animals. He deflowers the heroine, abandons her, goes and shags OW, wants the heroine back and kidnaps her again. Yes the sex scenes were well written- Ms Stuart is an expert in them- but the thought of having intercourse with such a hero made me throw up in my mouth. I felt he had all STDs in the world and he was a drug addict too. The second half of the book was the horny hero being desperate, and it did make me laugh because yes, it was that insane. There is a secondary romance between Lina and Monty, but I wasn't paying attention to it tbh. This was stupid funny and gross.
I am speechless.
Unsafe
2.5/5
May 6, 2021
First book was better, but this book was cute too ❤️
July 25, 2010
Not as dark as RUTHLESS, but a whole lot sexier, RECKLESS tells the story of Adrian, the son of the couple from the first book in this series. The heroine, Charlotte, is a tall, gawky spinster who follows her widowed cousin to a Hellfire Club-like gathering and is swept off her feet by Adrian, Viscount Rohan, whom she has worshiped from afar for years. The dynamic between Adrian and Charlotte is similar to that of his parents in the earlier book: Mad, bad rake convinces innocent spinster to walk on the wild side and is then tamed by love. If you enjoy that dynamic then you will probably enjoy this book. There is also an entertaining secondary romance between Charlotte's merry widow cousin and a vicar who just happens to be a reformed rake. I loved seeing the devil-may-care Adrian brought to his knees by the headstrong, spinster Charlotte--even if it did take him forever to admit his love for her. I'm loving this House of Rohan series and can't wait to read the next installment. Anne Stuart's rake/reformer pairings might be a bit old school, but I am not ashamed to admit that I'm digging them. Hard.
August 29, 2022
I love Anne Stuart's House of Rohan series. I've read out of order. This is like my 4th book from the series and loving the edgyness to her writing. She pushes the envelope of the romance formula and I like that!
November 18, 2019
Enjoying this series too much!
Adrian Alistair Rohan is the son of Viscount Rohan from Ruthless. He wasn't as savvy or ruthless as his father, but I still enjoyed his love story.
Adrian Alistair Rohan is the son of Viscount Rohan from Ruthless. He wasn't as savvy or ruthless as his father, but I still enjoyed his love story.
May 31, 2020
If he did not engage in an oral sex in a brothel it would be a five fav stars book alas his obsession with h was not enough for me. (sigh)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2018
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Reckless is the second book in the House of Rohan series. I just gobbled up the first book of the series. And Reckless features the son of Rohan and Elinor...Adrian. Now the first book does take place in Paris, but the family has moved to England. I first want to mention how fantastic this book is. I don't know why I took so long to get to book two, but Adrian's book was wonderful. I will say that this author's writing style is unique from most Victorian era authors....it definitely has a higher level of steam and more sensual.
Our delightful story begins with the setting of a house party in the countryside where the group of Heavenly Hosts meet. Now we were first introduced to the depravity and focus of sexual encounters in the first book. Our heroine, Charlotte, has been captivated by Adrian Rohan for years. But her cousin is attending the Heavenly Hosts party, and Charlotte is curious. She doesn't necessarily want to participate but she wants to observe. When she arrives to the party however, her cousin Lina soon leaves her to her own devices when she is called away. Charlotte ends up wandering the grounds and caught up in a passionate two nights with Adrian of all men. He teaches her the pleasures of sex and she finds passion and desire. But even though they never plan on seeing each other again, fate has a way of getting in the way of best laid plans and love they neither of them expected to find.
We also are introduced into a secondary love story, involving Charlotte's cousin Lina and the local Vicar Simon. I was really intrigued with this set up. Lina had a really rough marriage and had bitter feelings toward Vicars. One of her closest friends is dying and Simon is being a bit too involved in her business. Sparks fly between these two. Simon doesn't approve of Lina's lifestyle in seekig sex everywhere she can find it even though he knows that she hates it and doesn't find pleasure in intimacy. But she begins to feel desire for the first time in her life with a man so opposite from herself.
These two stories were simply fantastic, and I was drawn completely into this book. I love the writing style of Anne Stuart, they just pull me in and the narrator for this series is SUPERB. Susan Erickson really brings this book to life and I love the way she narrates the sensuality and the vibrant emotions that speaks to the listener. I wasn't sure what I was expecting when I picked up Reckless. I didn't realize it was a different setting since I really liked the Parisian setting. However, this isn't your average Victorian Era romance and Anne Stuart just adds such energy to her books and Reckless is no exception. I really had a blast with this book even if the heroine drove me nuts up the wall. She gets a bit violent against the hero (slapping him) when she is being a hypocrite in a certain situation. So I don't approve of heroines slapping heroes....yes Adrian is a rake but she didn't have much cause in slapping him. So whenever I see this in a romance it really drives me crazy and probably is the only aspect of the story that I didn't like and keeps the story from being a five star rating.
However, despite some of the heroines actions, I understand why she does it in some ways. She isn't ready for the emotions that Adrian brings out in her including the desire she is feeling for him or the fact that she is loving having sex with Adrian. There is such a focus of being shamed by sex in society in this time period, so she really has to face up to some tough things for herself. We see such a close bond that Adrian and Charlotte have together. Even though Adrian isn't the type to settle down and Charlotte knows it. When she suspects that she is pregnant despite the precuations that they take to prevent it, she doesn't want to tell him at first. Of course, it hard to hide it from him and then the plot takes a new twist with Adrian's cousin Etienne. Now Etienne is the most depraved human you can know and what a villain he was. From the beginning we see how truly evil his character is.
I will say that I found Charlotte and Adrian and Lina and Simon's stories were simply wonderful. I love how they just seem to work together and these stories just flow in and out of each other. I was really imressed with how this book was written and once again I have fallen madly in love with another book by Anne Stuart. This series is one I can't wait to read more of, Reckless was vibrant and unique and packed with sensuality that makes the reader melt! A STORY TO DELIGHT IN
[foogallery id="52137"]
Reckless is the second book in the House of Rohan series. I just gobbled up the first book of the series. And Reckless features the son of Rohan and Elinor...Adrian. Now the first book does take place in Paris, but the family has moved to England. I first want to mention how fantastic this book is. I don't know why I took so long to get to book two, but Adrian's book was wonderful. I will say that this author's writing style is unique from most Victorian era authors....it definitely has a higher level of steam and more sensual.
Our delightful story begins with the setting of a house party in the countryside where the group of Heavenly Hosts meet. Now we were first introduced to the depravity and focus of sexual encounters in the first book. Our heroine, Charlotte, has been captivated by Adrian Rohan for years. But her cousin is attending the Heavenly Hosts party, and Charlotte is curious. She doesn't necessarily want to participate but she wants to observe. When she arrives to the party however, her cousin Lina soon leaves her to her own devices when she is called away. Charlotte ends up wandering the grounds and caught up in a passionate two nights with Adrian of all men. He teaches her the pleasures of sex and she finds passion and desire. But even though they never plan on seeing each other again, fate has a way of getting in the way of best laid plans and love they neither of them expected to find.
“You've been pinning for him these last three years, God knows why. Admittedly he's gorgeous, but you're hardly the type to be overset by simple beauty. Why?"
Because he has sad eyes, she could have said. Because he tries so very hard to be bad, to be mean, to be cruel, and all you have to do is look past the studied ennui to see a hurt little boy trying to emerge. And yes, because he's bloody gorgeous.”
We also are introduced into a secondary love story, involving Charlotte's cousin Lina and the local Vicar Simon. I was really intrigued with this set up. Lina had a really rough marriage and had bitter feelings toward Vicars. One of her closest friends is dying and Simon is being a bit too involved in her business. Sparks fly between these two. Simon doesn't approve of Lina's lifestyle in seekig sex everywhere she can find it even though he knows that she hates it and doesn't find pleasure in intimacy. But she begins to feel desire for the first time in her life with a man so opposite from herself.
“You'd be better served if
you gave me a moment to regain my self-control and let me remove my boots. It's the least a
gentleman can do."
"And you're such a gentleman."
"Not with you, love. But I'm trying.”
These two stories were simply fantastic, and I was drawn completely into this book. I love the writing style of Anne Stuart, they just pull me in and the narrator for this series is SUPERB. Susan Erickson really brings this book to life and I love the way she narrates the sensuality and the vibrant emotions that speaks to the listener. I wasn't sure what I was expecting when I picked up Reckless. I didn't realize it was a different setting since I really liked the Parisian setting. However, this isn't your average Victorian Era romance and Anne Stuart just adds such energy to her books and Reckless is no exception. I really had a blast with this book even if the heroine drove me nuts up the wall. She gets a bit violent against the hero (slapping him) when she is being a hypocrite in a certain situation. So I don't approve of heroines slapping heroes....yes Adrian is a rake but she didn't have much cause in slapping him. So whenever I see this in a romance it really drives me crazy and probably is the only aspect of the story that I didn't like and keeps the story from being a five star rating.
However, despite some of the heroines actions, I understand why she does it in some ways. She isn't ready for the emotions that Adrian brings out in her including the desire she is feeling for him or the fact that she is loving having sex with Adrian. There is such a focus of being shamed by sex in society in this time period, so she really has to face up to some tough things for herself. We see such a close bond that Adrian and Charlotte have together. Even though Adrian isn't the type to settle down and Charlotte knows it. When she suspects that she is pregnant despite the precuations that they take to prevent it, she doesn't want to tell him at first. Of course, it hard to hide it from him and then the plot takes a new twist with Adrian's cousin Etienne. Now Etienne is the most depraved human you can know and what a villain he was. From the beginning we see how truly evil his character is.
I will say that I found Charlotte and Adrian and Lina and Simon's stories were simply wonderful. I love how they just seem to work together and these stories just flow in and out of each other. I was really imressed with how this book was written and once again I have fallen madly in love with another book by Anne Stuart. This series is one I can't wait to read more of, Reckless was vibrant and unique and packed with sensuality that makes the reader melt! A STORY TO DELIGHT IN
[foogallery id="52137"]
September 13, 2021
What a delightfully sinful book! I loved it. The book was well written and had an interesting plot. I didn't even mind the secondary romance. This definitely is a guilty pleasure book.
I will say my only problem with the book is the villian. He was a French bastard cousin. He wants to inherit his English cousin titles and money since the French Terror took his away. His motivation doesn't make since. A bastard cousin wouldn't inherit anything, especially not an English title. If you ignore that logical point, then he was a worthy villain.
I will say my only problem with the book is the villian. He was a French bastard cousin. He wants to inherit his English cousin titles and money since the French Terror took his away. His motivation doesn't make since. A bastard cousin wouldn't inherit anything, especially not an English title. If you ignore that logical point, then he was a worthy villain.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2011
I just finished listening to this audio book for the second time this week...something I rarely, if ever, do. (Nope, don't have any books falling apart at the seams from numerous rereads.) In Reckless (the 2nd installment in Anne Stuart's House of Rohan series), the conversations between the hero...the handsome, wealthy, titled, debauched Viscount Adrian Rohan, and the heroine...the too-tall, socially inept, firmly-on-the-shelf spinster, Charlotte Spenser, were so delightfully engaging (as in seductive & erotic) that the second listen was a must to catch what I missed the first go and relive (and savor) what I didn't.
Needless to say, I LOVE this book! Wait, I need to elaborate...I adore it, I cherish it and I will cradle it to my bosom for the rest of my days. In turn, I love Anne Stuart as well (but will leave off the elaboration). Reckless is only the second HR I've read by Ms. Stuart (the first being Ruthless, Book #1 in this series, which told the story of Sir Francis Rohan, Adrian's father and the one genetically responsible for his son's libertine ways). I do not know if this is indicative of her usual style or not, but these are dark stories written with a stark, flagrant - and at times a little unsettling - look at uninhibited sexual congress among the elite in Regency London. This author knows exactly what the term "rake" means, and she gives no quarter when penning this one. But Adrian Rohan is so captivating - so deliciously wicked - that I forgave him all the sexual depravities he indulged in before he met Charlotte and accepted the liaisons he half-heartedly engaged in after they met. No sugar coating here. Adrian did not fall madly in love with the awkward, virginal Charlotte when they first met (and she stepped all over his toes during a dance). Not even when they meet again at a ball 3 years later (where this book begins), although he is very intrigued by this poor relation of the beautiful Lina Winthrop.
At a gathering of the "Heavenly Host" (your basic no-holds-barred, 3-day "fuckfest" - brainstorm of original bad boy Francis Rohan who gave it all up for love), Adrian's intrigue gives way to lust when he spots Charlotte there (attending with cousin Lina merely out of curiosity). The seduction begins, which turns out to be the sweetest, most charming, "aww"-worthy "first time" that I have ever read in a romance novel.(It was maybe an hour long on audio so at least 50 pages in a book.) It also signified the beginning of the reformation of a rake...not an easy task to manage effectively when an author chooses to "show" rather than "tell" (actually walking the reader through the stages of change as opposed to an author who claims the hero is a rake yet he is smitten with the heroine and totally in love by the end of the first chapter). Anne Stuart gets an A+ for effectiveness, not only for the reformation but for her presentation of a believable, beautiful love story between two polar opposites. running the gamut of emotions for both protagonists...insecurity, defensiveness, fear, longing, hope, despair, heartbreak for Charlotte...grief, anger, confidence, trepidation, denial, acceptance, contentment for Adrian.
There is a secondary romance with Lina and the rake-turned-vicar, Simon Prescott, that warranted its own book. Acting out the pretense of mutual dislike, they provoke each other mercilessly as they try to tamp down their traitorous feelings of love. Their relationship was rife with sexual tension that I would have loved to see played out in detail. They got their HEA, but unfortunately for us readers it was delivered with a G-rating.
Overall, this book rocks from beginning to end. It isn't necessary to read Ruthless first...although it gives you a detailed look at the Heavenly Host. In other words, much darker and more depravity. Reckless is a little more carefree and the hero, at 28, a lot less jaded than his father was at 40 when his story was told. I would recommend this book to historical romance readers that aren't looking for comedy, fluff or a wallpaper romance...those that don't have delicate sensibilities when it comes to sexx and can endure a blow-by-blow (!!) account (H/h only). And, of course, those that require a believable, satisfying HEA. I hope you enjoy Reckless as much as I did!
5+ stars
Audio book highly recommended
Needless to say, I LOVE this book! Wait, I need to elaborate...I adore it, I cherish it and I will cradle it to my bosom for the rest of my days. In turn, I love Anne Stuart as well (but will leave off the elaboration). Reckless is only the second HR I've read by Ms. Stuart (the first being Ruthless, Book #1 in this series, which told the story of Sir Francis Rohan, Adrian's father and the one genetically responsible for his son's libertine ways). I do not know if this is indicative of her usual style or not, but these are dark stories written with a stark, flagrant - and at times a little unsettling - look at uninhibited sexual congress among the elite in Regency London. This author knows exactly what the term "rake" means, and she gives no quarter when penning this one. But Adrian Rohan is so captivating - so deliciously wicked - that I forgave him all the sexual depravities he indulged in before he met Charlotte and accepted the liaisons he half-heartedly engaged in after they met. No sugar coating here. Adrian did not fall madly in love with the awkward, virginal Charlotte when they first met (and she stepped all over his toes during a dance). Not even when they meet again at a ball 3 years later (where this book begins), although he is very intrigued by this poor relation of the beautiful Lina Winthrop.
At a gathering of the "Heavenly Host" (your basic no-holds-barred, 3-day "fuckfest" - brainstorm of original bad boy Francis Rohan who gave it all up for love), Adrian's intrigue gives way to lust when he spots Charlotte there (attending with cousin Lina merely out of curiosity). The seduction begins, which turns out to be the sweetest, most charming, "aww"-worthy "first time" that I have ever read in a romance novel.(It was maybe an hour long on audio so at least 50 pages in a book.) It also signified the beginning of the reformation of a rake...not an easy task to manage effectively when an author chooses to "show" rather than "tell" (actually walking the reader through the stages of change as opposed to an author who claims the hero is a rake yet he is smitten with the heroine and totally in love by the end of the first chapter). Anne Stuart gets an A+ for effectiveness, not only for the reformation but for her presentation of a believable, beautiful love story between two polar opposites. running the gamut of emotions for both protagonists...insecurity, defensiveness, fear, longing, hope, despair, heartbreak for Charlotte...grief, anger, confidence, trepidation, denial, acceptance, contentment for Adrian.
There is a secondary romance with Lina and the rake-turned-vicar, Simon Prescott, that warranted its own book. Acting out the pretense of mutual dislike, they provoke each other mercilessly as they try to tamp down their traitorous feelings of love. Their relationship was rife with sexual tension that I would have loved to see played out in detail. They got their HEA, but unfortunately for us readers it was delivered with a G-rating.
Overall, this book rocks from beginning to end. It isn't necessary to read Ruthless first...although it gives you a detailed look at the Heavenly Host. In other words, much darker and more depravity. Reckless is a little more carefree and the hero, at 28, a lot less jaded than his father was at 40 when his story was told. I would recommend this book to historical romance readers that aren't looking for comedy, fluff or a wallpaper romance...those that don't have delicate sensibilities when it comes to sexx and can endure a blow-by-blow (!!) account (H/h only). And, of course, those that require a believable, satisfying HEA. I hope you enjoy Reckless as much as I did!
5+ stars
Audio book highly recommended
May 8, 2020
He is a tall, sexy, handsome and a sinful reprobate. But he is redeemable and thats why he is the hero of this book. He has a debauched mind and a filthy mouth that offends and seduces at the same time. There are only two options - kiss to shut him up or disinfect with bleach because soap just won't do. Our heroine on the other hand is intelligent, poor, plain, naive and an aging spinster. She falls in love with the hero, on first sight. Its her job to redeem him. But how? By standing up to him, challenging and throwing his inexcusable behaviour right back in his face. By giving him her virginity and demanding that in return nothing else but his love, respect, loyalty and fidelity would do. And, he does. For a lifetime.
I had a bit of a difficulty getting into the rhythm of this book but I really enjoyed all the secondary characters. They were not well fleshed out but were their to detract and provide comic relief . I especially enjoyed Meggie, she is Charlotte's maid.
I had a bit of a difficulty getting into the rhythm of this book but I really enjoyed all the secondary characters. They were not well fleshed out but were their to detract and provide comic relief . I especially enjoyed Meggie, she is Charlotte's maid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2023
Enjoyable story. Adrian the 28 year old rake. Is interested in Charlotte the 30 year old spinster. Who has loved him for the past 3 years.
We also have Lina the widowed cousin and the Vicar .
Monty is dying but he wants to play Cupid to his friends, before he departs .
Then we have the evil French cousin.
Old style Bodice Ripper.
We also have Lina the widowed cousin and the Vicar .
Monty is dying but he wants to play Cupid to his friends, before he departs .
Then we have the evil French cousin.
Old style Bodice Ripper.
August 29, 2015
4.5 stars
Wow. I am loving Anne Stuart's House of Rohan books. I am so glad I gave this author another chance.
Reckless does have some similarities to Ruthless in that it is essentially the story of a debauched libertine who finds love with a 'plain', inexperienced spinster who is firmly on the shelf. But the development of the relationship in Reckless happens in quite a different way, and Adrian is quite a different character from his father.
Reckless is the story of Adrian Rohan, the son of Francis and Elinor from Ruthless. Although Reckless can be read as a stand alone novel, Ruthless is such a wonderful novel that it would be a shame to miss it. We do also get to see and hear a little more of Francis and Elinor.
Once again, the author has created a 'bad boy' that you can't help but love. While we were made privy to the circumstances leading to Francis's behaviour in Ruthless, we never got sufficient explanation for the cause of Adrian's sad eyes and reckless behaviour. It appeared to be the result of immaturity, lack of character, and desire to rebel against his powerful father. But such is the strength of Anne Stuart's writing, that this did not detract from my enjoyment in the story.
I am also really appreciating that I actually like the heroines every bit as much as the heroes. These are women who are strong enough to hold their own with the men and are absolutely deserving of happiness (and great sex!).
One of the things I really love about this series so far, is the way the author creates a completely unconventional and scorchingly hot encounter for their first sexual contact. This sets the scene for both parties to endure some smoking sexual tension until they next cross paths.
Reckless is not a perfect novel, but I once again found myself so absorbed in the story that I couldn't put it down. The positives and quality of writing far outweigh the opportunity for greater depth to the hero's character or any similarities in the tropes used.
I can't help but include the following passage, which leads to one of the hottest scenes I have ever read:
******* The following is an excerpt from the novel. Possible minor spoiler. *********
He took a step forward, and without thinking, she backed away, the uncertainty still moving through her body.
"It's not going to work if you do that," he said softly.
"Maybe that's a better idea."
"Coward," he said. He took another step toward her, and she took another one back, coming up against the closed door. He leaned forward and brushed his mouth across hers, so gently it seemed as if she'd imagined it. "Poor Charlotte," he whispered. "You're as bad as I am."
"What do you mean?" Her voice was only a thread of sound as his mouth traced the line of her jaw, ending up just beneath her ear, against her throbbing pulse.
"It's a waste of time to keep fighting it. We're doomed. We may as well give in." His hands were in her hair now, and she heard the hairpins fall on the floor as her neat braids fell loose around her. "Turn around, Charlotte."
"W-why?"
"Because I want to unlace your dress."
"Is that strictly necessary?"
He laughed against her throat. "Yes, it's strictly necessary. I want to see you naked. I want to lick every inch of your body. Turn around."
Wow. I am loving Anne Stuart's House of Rohan books. I am so glad I gave this author another chance.
Reckless does have some similarities to Ruthless in that it is essentially the story of a debauched libertine who finds love with a 'plain', inexperienced spinster who is firmly on the shelf. But the development of the relationship in Reckless happens in quite a different way, and Adrian is quite a different character from his father.
Reckless is the story of Adrian Rohan, the son of Francis and Elinor from Ruthless. Although Reckless can be read as a stand alone novel, Ruthless is such a wonderful novel that it would be a shame to miss it. We do also get to see and hear a little more of Francis and Elinor.
Once again, the author has created a 'bad boy' that you can't help but love. While we were made privy to the circumstances leading to Francis's behaviour in Ruthless, we never got sufficient explanation for the cause of Adrian's sad eyes and reckless behaviour. It appeared to be the result of immaturity, lack of character, and desire to rebel against his powerful father. But such is the strength of Anne Stuart's writing, that this did not detract from my enjoyment in the story.
I am also really appreciating that I actually like the heroines every bit as much as the heroes. These are women who are strong enough to hold their own with the men and are absolutely deserving of happiness (and great sex!).
One of the things I really love about this series so far, is the way the author creates a completely unconventional and scorchingly hot encounter for their first sexual contact. This sets the scene for both parties to endure some smoking sexual tension until they next cross paths.
Reckless is not a perfect novel, but I once again found myself so absorbed in the story that I couldn't put it down. The positives and quality of writing far outweigh the opportunity for greater depth to the hero's character or any similarities in the tropes used.
I can't help but include the following passage, which leads to one of the hottest scenes I have ever read:
******* The following is an excerpt from the novel. Possible minor spoiler. *********
He took a step forward, and without thinking, she backed away, the uncertainty still moving through her body.
"It's not going to work if you do that," he said softly.
"Maybe that's a better idea."
"Coward," he said. He took another step toward her, and she took another one back, coming up against the closed door. He leaned forward and brushed his mouth across hers, so gently it seemed as if she'd imagined it. "Poor Charlotte," he whispered. "You're as bad as I am."
"What do you mean?" Her voice was only a thread of sound as his mouth traced the line of her jaw, ending up just beneath her ear, against her throbbing pulse.
"It's a waste of time to keep fighting it. We're doomed. We may as well give in." His hands were in her hair now, and she heard the hairpins fall on the floor as her neat braids fell loose around her. "Turn around, Charlotte."
"W-why?"
"Because I want to unlace your dress."
"Is that strictly necessary?"
He laughed against her throat. "Yes, it's strictly necessary. I want to see you naked. I want to lick every inch of your body. Turn around."
Read
June 7, 2023A more boring Ruthless.
August 12, 2012
Big shiny five stars!!!!
I flat out LOVED every second of this book. I remember the first in the series being a bit depressing, and this one still had a bit of a slummy feel. (Though I still loved it!) However, we all know that this is a ROMANCE, and a historical one at that. So there WILL be a happy ending, right? Of course! And there are few books in which I was rooting for the couple more.
Charlotte and Rohan are in the typical opposites attract scenario. The libertine and rake vs. the dried up spinster. In fact, the book is full of clichés. But somehow, Ms. Stuart has masterfully made the old clichés into a new and engaging story. I never got the same feeling that I get when reading a regency involving the two most commonly used characters. And I’m not dogging on HR. It’s one of my favorite genres. This book was different. Rohan is trapped in a life of his own making, living a debauched and lonely existence while surrounded by every sin imaginable. And if you’ve read the first in the series, you know about the Heavenly Host, the gathering place for all sexual vices. Of course, Rohan is a regular attendee. And Charlotte has resigned herself to being a bluestocking spinster. In fact, she’s happy with the life. She’s also curious about what goes on between a man and woman, and convinces her cousin to allow her to attend the meeting of the Heavenly Host. As an observer, of course. And the story gets interesting…
I will tout a little disclaimer here. This is a very sexual story for historical romance. I wouldn’t exactly call it explicit enough to consider it erotica, but it walks a fine line. The language is crude, but necessary to Rohan’s character. But this is not a series for those of you who read HR for the light romance or fade to black consummation of marriage vows. It IS, however, perfect for those you who, like me, enjoy a well written erotic novel with an actual plotline. It’s so exciting to find a gem among a group of books that has been sitting on my shelf, especially when it meshes so perfectly two genres that are rarely put together.
Rohan’s inner turmoil is great. I’m a vindictive reader, and love the “Oh shit” moment that the hero tends to have when he realized what he’s about to lose. And Adrian Rohan’s battle with himself is priceless. He’s just so convinced that Charlotte will have him…I found myself smiling from ear to ear at the particular scene in which Charlotte lets him know that she CAN live without him. I only wish I could see facial expression.
I am officially on my way to devouring the next in this series and I must thank Lady Danielle for raving about this author enough times to finally prod me into reading more of the series. I highly recommend this for fans of steamy historical romance, anti-heroes, and a heroine who is a blend of innocence and wisdom, vulnerability and strength.
I flat out LOVED every second of this book. I remember the first in the series being a bit depressing, and this one still had a bit of a slummy feel. (Though I still loved it!) However, we all know that this is a ROMANCE, and a historical one at that. So there WILL be a happy ending, right? Of course! And there are few books in which I was rooting for the couple more.
Charlotte and Rohan are in the typical opposites attract scenario. The libertine and rake vs. the dried up spinster. In fact, the book is full of clichés. But somehow, Ms. Stuart has masterfully made the old clichés into a new and engaging story. I never got the same feeling that I get when reading a regency involving the two most commonly used characters. And I’m not dogging on HR. It’s one of my favorite genres. This book was different. Rohan is trapped in a life of his own making, living a debauched and lonely existence while surrounded by every sin imaginable. And if you’ve read the first in the series, you know about the Heavenly Host, the gathering place for all sexual vices. Of course, Rohan is a regular attendee. And Charlotte has resigned herself to being a bluestocking spinster. In fact, she’s happy with the life. She’s also curious about what goes on between a man and woman, and convinces her cousin to allow her to attend the meeting of the Heavenly Host. As an observer, of course. And the story gets interesting…
I will tout a little disclaimer here. This is a very sexual story for historical romance. I wouldn’t exactly call it explicit enough to consider it erotica, but it walks a fine line. The language is crude, but necessary to Rohan’s character. But this is not a series for those of you who read HR for the light romance or fade to black consummation of marriage vows. It IS, however, perfect for those you who, like me, enjoy a well written erotic novel with an actual plotline. It’s so exciting to find a gem among a group of books that has been sitting on my shelf, especially when it meshes so perfectly two genres that are rarely put together.
Rohan’s inner turmoil is great. I’m a vindictive reader, and love the “Oh shit” moment that the hero tends to have when he realized what he’s about to lose. And Adrian Rohan’s battle with himself is priceless. He’s just so convinced that Charlotte will have him…I found myself smiling from ear to ear at the particular scene in which Charlotte lets him know that she CAN live without him. I only wish I could see facial expression.
I am officially on my way to devouring the next in this series and I must thank Lady Danielle for raving about this author enough times to finally prod me into reading more of the series. I highly recommend this for fans of steamy historical romance, anti-heroes, and a heroine who is a blend of innocence and wisdom, vulnerability and strength.
February 4, 2016
This was a romance in 1804 England and France. It was filled with lots of depravity. S&M, drunkinness, and gambling abound in this book. I would recommend this book to those over eighteen and not of a tender disposition.
I enjoyed reading this book and I flew right through it.
Enjoy and Be Blessed.
Diamond
I enjoyed reading this book and I flew right through it.
Enjoy and Be Blessed.
Diamond
October 9, 2022
This story begins 36 years after the last book.
Adrian Rohan is the son of the MCs from "Ruthless". He's a libertine and Charlotte is a spinster with the self-esteem of a pea.
Once again, in this book, there are intrigues and a secondary romance. The chemistry between the MCs is...ok. The series is improving, no doubt, but this is still not an addictive book.
Adrian Rohan is the son of the MCs from "Ruthless". He's a libertine and Charlotte is a spinster with the self-esteem of a pea.
Once again, in this book, there are intrigues and a secondary romance. The chemistry between the MCs is...ok. The series is improving, no doubt, but this is still not an addictive book.
June 22, 2016
Para ser una novela de harlequin, y bastante cortita, la verdad es que ha sido muy hot, casi rayando en la erótica festiva. Pero no le ha desmerecido un ápice, ha estado muy entretenida. Tenemos a Charlotte, una mujer inteligente y adelantada a su tiempo que sabe lo que quiere y con voluntad para decidir por sí misma, aunque Adrian, el protagonista, la ponga entre la espada y la pared. Adrian ha sido una sorpresa, y es que, aunque estamos ante una novela romántica y sepamos que el protagonista se redime al final, la verdad es que estamos ante un auténtico libertino, un hombre egoísta, arrogante, vanidoso y que sólo busca el placer allá donde pueda hallarlo, pero con Charlotte dará con la horma de su zapato.
Completa el elenco una pareja secundaria, también con historia de amor, la prima viuda de Charlotte, Lina, y un párroco antaño libertino, con los que se verá la típica historia de amor/odio, y el que ha sido uno de mis personajes favoritos, Monty, un noble enfermo de tuberculosis, que ha dedicado su vida al placer y a organizar las fiestas y orgías más libidinosas existentes, pero con un gran corazón, al que no se le escapará nada, y hasta actuará de casamentero.
Empecé la serie por el libro equivocado, pero me ha gustado lo bastante como para seguir leyéndola.
Completa el elenco una pareja secundaria, también con historia de amor, la prima viuda de Charlotte, Lina, y un párroco antaño libertino, con los que se verá la típica historia de amor/odio, y el que ha sido uno de mis personajes favoritos, Monty, un noble enfermo de tuberculosis, que ha dedicado su vida al placer y a organizar las fiestas y orgías más libidinosas existentes, pero con un gran corazón, al que no se le escapará nada, y hasta actuará de casamentero.
Empecé la serie por el libro equivocado, pero me ha gustado lo bastante como para seguir leyéndola.
October 1, 2010
Wow. Wow. Wow. 4.5 stars -- just like Ruthless, but for a different reason. Ruthless I loved for the characters, the plotting, the dialogue, the story. Reckless I loved for Adrian and Charlotte.
If you are drawn to the spinster/rake formula (my absolute favourite) the premise to this book is all of our dreams come true:
You are firmly on the shelf at 30. You have loved Viscount Rohan from afar for years ( he is one of Anne Stuart' s sly-with-a-wink bad heroes) but other than humiliating you once on the dance floor, he has never noticed you. Until the weekend he propositions you while you are in disguise. And this happens:
"You would hardly lower your standards to...to...bed an unwilling antidote, a plain old maid."
He surveyed her figure in silence for a moment, and she had the odd notion that he could not only see beneath the enveloping hood, but also see through to her flaws and imperfections. "The word is fuck," he said deliberately. "And you wouldn't be unwilling." There was a calm certainty in his voice, as if he'd been privy to her awful dreams. "You greatly underestimate your charms." His hand tightened, and he pulled her toward him, slowly, inexorably. She tried to put her hands between them, but it was already too late to fight him, and he simply clamped her against him, against his strong, hard body. She could feel him, as she had in her dreams, and she wanted to cry. So close, so tantalizingly close, and all she had to do was pull back her cowl and and he'd release her, shocked, horrified, perhaps disgusted at the thought of the mistake he'd almost made.
But she couldn't get her hands free - they were trapped between their bodies. He'd managed to restrain her with just one arm, and his hand reached up toward her hidden face.
"You don't want to do this," she said desperately.
"Of course I do. I've wanted to for a long time, Miss Spenser." And he pushed the hood from her head, caught her stubborn chin in one strong hand and kissed her."
And you find yourself in a locked room, with the love of your life - who (finally) wants you. Locked into a 'playroom' for the night and no one has a key. With no one to disturb you. Except the beautiful, sinful, depraved, charming and devastatingly skilled Viscount Rohan, who wants to kiss you, to taste you, to show you, to teach you, to have you. Over and over and over again.
Oh my GOD.
What a set up. Whew! Adrian and Charlotte strike sparks off of one another, and the love scenes - long, detailed and oh so sexy! fairly light the pages on fire.
Reckless doesn't quite have the depth of story as Ruthless, but it more than makes up for it in steam. It is very fast-paced compared to Ruthless as well. I might have liked more time (pages, I mean) devoted to Adrian and Charlotte's back stories, but Anne Stuart gives us enough to love both of them. Especially Adrian. Sigh. He almost takes his father's place in my heart.
I loved this book. The pages flew by, and I could barely bring myself to put it down to go to sleep last night, or to work today. Come to think of it, this happened to me with Ruthless, as well.
I LOVE Anne Stuart - and Breathless comes out tomorrow!!!
If you are drawn to the spinster/rake formula (my absolute favourite) the premise to this book is all of our dreams come true:
You are firmly on the shelf at 30. You have loved Viscount Rohan from afar for years ( he is one of Anne Stuart' s sly-with-a-wink bad heroes) but other than humiliating you once on the dance floor, he has never noticed you. Until the weekend he propositions you while you are in disguise. And this happens:
"You would hardly lower your standards to...to...bed an unwilling antidote, a plain old maid."
He surveyed her figure in silence for a moment, and she had the odd notion that he could not only see beneath the enveloping hood, but also see through to her flaws and imperfections. "The word is fuck," he said deliberately. "And you wouldn't be unwilling." There was a calm certainty in his voice, as if he'd been privy to her awful dreams. "You greatly underestimate your charms." His hand tightened, and he pulled her toward him, slowly, inexorably. She tried to put her hands between them, but it was already too late to fight him, and he simply clamped her against him, against his strong, hard body. She could feel him, as she had in her dreams, and she wanted to cry. So close, so tantalizingly close, and all she had to do was pull back her cowl and and he'd release her, shocked, horrified, perhaps disgusted at the thought of the mistake he'd almost made.
But she couldn't get her hands free - they were trapped between their bodies. He'd managed to restrain her with just one arm, and his hand reached up toward her hidden face.
"You don't want to do this," she said desperately.
"Of course I do. I've wanted to for a long time, Miss Spenser." And he pushed the hood from her head, caught her stubborn chin in one strong hand and kissed her."
And you find yourself in a locked room, with the love of your life - who (finally) wants you. Locked into a 'playroom' for the night and no one has a key. With no one to disturb you. Except the beautiful, sinful, depraved, charming and devastatingly skilled Viscount Rohan, who wants to kiss you, to taste you, to show you, to teach you, to have you. Over and over and over again.
Oh my GOD.
What a set up. Whew! Adrian and Charlotte strike sparks off of one another, and the love scenes - long, detailed and oh so sexy! fairly light the pages on fire.
Reckless doesn't quite have the depth of story as Ruthless, but it more than makes up for it in steam. It is very fast-paced compared to Ruthless as well. I might have liked more time (pages, I mean) devoted to Adrian and Charlotte's back stories, but Anne Stuart gives us enough to love both of them. Especially Adrian. Sigh. He almost takes his father's place in my heart.
I loved this book. The pages flew by, and I could barely bring myself to put it down to go to sleep last night, or to work today. Come to think of it, this happened to me with Ruthless, as well.
I LOVE Anne Stuart - and Breathless comes out tomorrow!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2010
I didn't think that my love for Anne Stuart's work could get any stronger.....but I was wrong. The House of Rohan series absolutely takes my breath away, leaves me with butterflies in my stomach, and consumes my time and thoughts. How I wish I knew this woman personally so I could thank her for all the hours of wonderful reading she's given, and continues to give me.
Reckless was perfect.
The hero of this story, Adrian, is Francis and Elinor's son . Francis and Elinor's story can be found in the book Ruthless, and although Reckless can be read as a stand alone, Ruthless is a "don't miss" kind of book so be sure to read that one as well.
Many things separate Anne Stuart from all others. Her heroes are legendary, her stories are unique and captivating, but her gift with the character's dialogue is unparalleled. I found myself experiencing a myriad of emotions as I read this book and was captivated by the dialogue. Adrian is a complete rake and libertine. At age 30, Charlotte is a spinster who is officially "on the shelf". Charlotte has been secretly in love with Adrian for years (I love this storyline!), while Adrian has been out "sowing his wild oats".
I love a good story where the tables turn and the seducer becomes the one who is seduced! What begins as lust and a seemingly one night stand turns into so much more as Adrian is brought to his knees by Charlotte. I loved the passion in this relationship! Anytime Charlotte and Adrian were in the same room...sparks flew. Whether fighting, conversing, ignoring, or succumbing....this relationship is passionate. Another thing that separates this book from others is that I EXPERIENCED this relationship. I felt what Charlotte was feeling. I felt what Adrian was feeling. This is so rare.
The secondary romance is so touching and Adrian and Charlotte are so sizzling. Again, I find myself in awe and pledging my undying loyalty to Ms. Stuart's talent.
Read this series.....now......don't heitate......don't wait......it's worth every penny and every minute.
Reckless was perfect.
The hero of this story, Adrian, is Francis and Elinor's son . Francis and Elinor's story can be found in the book Ruthless, and although Reckless can be read as a stand alone, Ruthless is a "don't miss" kind of book so be sure to read that one as well.
Many things separate Anne Stuart from all others. Her heroes are legendary, her stories are unique and captivating, but her gift with the character's dialogue is unparalleled. I found myself experiencing a myriad of emotions as I read this book and was captivated by the dialogue. Adrian is a complete rake and libertine. At age 30, Charlotte is a spinster who is officially "on the shelf". Charlotte has been secretly in love with Adrian for years (I love this storyline!), while Adrian has been out "sowing his wild oats".
I love a good story where the tables turn and the seducer becomes the one who is seduced! What begins as lust and a seemingly one night stand turns into so much more as Adrian is brought to his knees by Charlotte. I loved the passion in this relationship! Anytime Charlotte and Adrian were in the same room...sparks flew. Whether fighting, conversing, ignoring, or succumbing....this relationship is passionate. Another thing that separates this book from others is that I EXPERIENCED this relationship. I felt what Charlotte was feeling. I felt what Adrian was feeling. This is so rare.
The secondary romance is so touching and Adrian and Charlotte are so sizzling. Again, I find myself in awe and pledging my undying loyalty to Ms. Stuart's talent.
Read this series.....now......don't heitate......don't wait......it's worth every penny and every minute.
April 14, 2011
reviewed for http://shamelessromancereviews.blogsp...
The House of Rohan series absolutely takes my breath away and consumes my time and thoughts
Reckless was stunning.
The hero of this story, Adrian, is Francis and Elinor's son.
Adrian is a complete rake and libertine. At age 30, Charlotte is a spinster who is officially "on the shelf". Charlotte has been secretly in love with Adrian for years, while Adrian has been out "sowing his wild oats".
I love a good story where the tables turn and the seducer becomes the one who is seduced! What begins as lust and a seemingly one night stand turns into so much more as Adrian is brought to his knees by Charlotte. Anytime Charlotte and Adrian were in the same room...sparks flew. Their relationship is passionate.
Read this series.....now......don't hesitate......don't wait......
The House of Rohan series absolutely takes my breath away and consumes my time and thoughts
Reckless was stunning.
The hero of this story, Adrian, is Francis and Elinor's son.
Adrian is a complete rake and libertine. At age 30, Charlotte is a spinster who is officially "on the shelf". Charlotte has been secretly in love with Adrian for years, while Adrian has been out "sowing his wild oats".
I love a good story where the tables turn and the seducer becomes the one who is seduced! What begins as lust and a seemingly one night stand turns into so much more as Adrian is brought to his knees by Charlotte. Anytime Charlotte and Adrian were in the same room...sparks flew. Their relationship is passionate.
Read this series.....now......don't hesitate......don't wait......
November 8, 2021
This was ok but the first one was better. I couldn't understand why Adrian turned out the way he was. He was brought up by loving parents. Except for the fact that his older bro died in a horse accident making him the heir. I thought his character and the plot were a bit weak. Steamier than her other books that I've read so far.
October 4, 2018
2.5 Stars
So here is the deal. The first sex scene in this book was rape. THERE ARE NO CONTENT WARNINGS!!! IN ANY OF THE REVIEWS!!! MOST PPL HAPPEN TO LOVE THIS BOOK AND JUST IGNORE THAT THE WAY THE HERO WAS ACTING WAS NOT AT ALL ROMANTIC. Look I don't take books too seriously, but honestly this just seemed to romanticize a manipulative, non consensual relationship just based on sex. The romantic part came a little later which was just a tiny bit sweet, but could have been a lot more better developed.
honestly the first time they fucked had me
It was a rape by my definition, which is intercourse or sexual activity without solid consent from one party. Yes, or no with a clear head, without coercion or force or manipulation. The thing is, the author twisted it in such a way, that Charlotte (our heroine) wanted it, but was so inexperienced and scared with a loooot of emotions going on, that she couldn't give a straight answer. Not to mention the hero kept playing games with her. Promising to "leave her virginity intact" in one second and the next telling her that they were going to have sex no matter what she said. It was very painful to read and I really really wanted to put the book down.
If you're into the 80s and 90s rapey heroes then by all means, read this book, but it's pretty darn fucked up.
However I kept going because this book has really good reviews so I was like maybe he'll redeem himself? I love asshole reformed rake heroes as much as the next girl, but this guy was way too manipulative. I won't apologize for disliking him so much, because by my definition he raped her and that was not romantic. Maybe that's me as a third wave feminist saying so, and that times and definitions were definitely different and always supporting the male in regency England, but that still does not make it okay.
Other than the abominable first time for poor Charlotte, our extremely likable heroine, the plot and romance were actually really good and enjoyable.
All of the stars go towards Charlotte and Lina, who made this book super fun. I just absolutely loved how, even though Charlotte was a slave to her own lust, she never let him believe otherwise. She let him know exactly the kind of terrible man he was
You're a cold-hearted, arrogant son of a bitch, and I deserve better."
"I'm smart, I'm talented, I'm essentially kindhearted and I'm not a complete antidote. I shouldn't have to settle for the kind of cold-blooded union you're suggesting. It's so kind of you to condescend to offer for me, but you can take your proposal, if that's what it was, and stuff it up your bum. I'm worth more, I deserve better, and I'm not settling for someone like you.”
Me, supporting other women who are successful and happy and high key feminists
She let him know just how useless and terrible she found him, and that even though she loved him, she could live without him happily.
I just hated how in the end, she just accepted his apology and said "it's cool, I never said no to you anyway".
HUH??!!??! wtf I CAN COUNT ON BOTH HANDS HOW MANY TIMES SHE SAID NO WTF
SO yeah, Charlotte is the reason I bothered with any stars at all, as well as the plot and the writing. Not sure if I'll read more by this author.
So here is the deal. The first sex scene in this book was rape. THERE ARE NO CONTENT WARNINGS!!! IN ANY OF THE REVIEWS!!! MOST PPL HAPPEN TO LOVE THIS BOOK AND JUST IGNORE THAT THE WAY THE HERO WAS ACTING WAS NOT AT ALL ROMANTIC. Look I don't take books too seriously, but honestly this just seemed to romanticize a manipulative, non consensual relationship just based on sex. The romantic part came a little later which was just a tiny bit sweet, but could have been a lot more better developed.
honestly the first time they fucked had me
It was a rape by my definition, which is intercourse or sexual activity without solid consent from one party. Yes, or no with a clear head, without coercion or force or manipulation. The thing is, the author twisted it in such a way, that Charlotte (our heroine) wanted it, but was so inexperienced and scared with a loooot of emotions going on, that she couldn't give a straight answer. Not to mention the hero kept playing games with her. Promising to "leave her virginity intact" in one second and the next telling her that they were going to have sex no matter what she said. It was very painful to read and I really really wanted to put the book down.
If you're into the 80s and 90s rapey heroes then by all means, read this book, but it's pretty darn fucked up.
However I kept going because this book has really good reviews so I was like maybe he'll redeem himself? I love asshole reformed rake heroes as much as the next girl, but this guy was way too manipulative. I won't apologize for disliking him so much, because by my definition he raped her and that was not romantic. Maybe that's me as a third wave feminist saying so, and that times and definitions were definitely different and always supporting the male in regency England, but that still does not make it okay.
Other than the abominable first time for poor Charlotte, our extremely likable heroine, the plot and romance were actually really good and enjoyable.
All of the stars go towards Charlotte and Lina, who made this book super fun. I just absolutely loved how, even though Charlotte was a slave to her own lust, she never let him believe otherwise. She let him know exactly the kind of terrible man he was
You're a cold-hearted, arrogant son of a bitch, and I deserve better."
"I'm smart, I'm talented, I'm essentially kindhearted and I'm not a complete antidote. I shouldn't have to settle for the kind of cold-blooded union you're suggesting. It's so kind of you to condescend to offer for me, but you can take your proposal, if that's what it was, and stuff it up your bum. I'm worth more, I deserve better, and I'm not settling for someone like you.”
Me, supporting other women who are successful and happy and high key feminists
She let him know just how useless and terrible she found him, and that even though she loved him, she could live without him happily.
I just hated how in the end, she just accepted his apology and said "it's cool, I never said no to you anyway".
HUH??!!??! wtf I CAN COUNT ON BOTH HANDS HOW MANY TIMES SHE SAID NO WTF
SO yeah, Charlotte is the reason I bothered with any stars at all, as well as the plot and the writing. Not sure if I'll read more by this author.
September 29, 2010
Reckless, book #2 of the The House of Rohan series, takes place 39 years after book #1.
In Reckless we meet the son of the hero and heroine of Ruthless: Adrian. I wasn't as intrigued with him as I was his father. Where his father had a haunted history, Adrian just seemed more like a spoiled brat. I couldn't pick up on any 'darkness' to him, even though it was mentioned a few times.
Our heroine is a Ms. Charlotte Spenser, a 30 year old spinster. And while I did like her (I do love a good bluestocking), again, I didn't find her as intriguing as our heroine in Ruthless. Where Elinor had a seriously rough life, Charlotte has had it a bit good in comparison. Nevertheless, she was an intelligent character. Also, when she took off her glove and smacked Adrian across the face while in the carriage, I admit I cheered.
The romance of Adrian and Charlotte was a bit vapid. However, I was much more moved by the secondary romance, that of Simon Pagatt, a vicar, and Charlotte's cousin Lina. Their relationship was based more on feeling whereas Adrian and Charlotte's was more on lust. Simon and Lina are vastly different and Lina has the added disadvantage of never wanting to marry again due to a horrible marriage which left her a widow. The conversations between Simon and Lina were fantastic. They were always sparring at each other.
I was content on how the story ended and felt this was a pretty solid middle book in the series.
In Reckless we meet the son of the hero and heroine of Ruthless: Adrian. I wasn't as intrigued with him as I was his father. Where his father had a haunted history, Adrian just seemed more like a spoiled brat. I couldn't pick up on any 'darkness' to him, even though it was mentioned a few times.
Our heroine is a Ms. Charlotte Spenser, a 30 year old spinster. And while I did like her (I do love a good bluestocking), again, I didn't find her as intriguing as our heroine in Ruthless. Where Elinor had a seriously rough life, Charlotte has had it a bit good in comparison. Nevertheless, she was an intelligent character. Also, when she took off her glove and smacked Adrian across the face while in the carriage, I admit I cheered.
The romance of Adrian and Charlotte was a bit vapid. However, I was much more moved by the secondary romance, that of Simon Pagatt, a vicar, and Charlotte's cousin Lina. Their relationship was based more on feeling whereas Adrian and Charlotte's was more on lust. Simon and Lina are vastly different and Lina has the added disadvantage of never wanting to marry again due to a horrible marriage which left her a widow. The conversations between Simon and Lina were fantastic. They were always sparring at each other.
I was content on how the story ended and felt this was a pretty solid middle book in the series.
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