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Scandalous #1
A Scandalous Wife
Looks can be deceiving, the same is true for reputations
As the head of his family, Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten, was accustomed to dealing with various problems his siblings had caused of one sort or another. However he wasn’t prepared when his cad of brother ruined and then abandoned a young lady. To right the wrong, Robert married the girl himself; but his chivalry only went so far. He didn’t want a wife, and most certainly not a scandalous one. So after repeating his vows, he sent her packing, off to a secluded estate and expected her to stay put.
After years of mistreatment at the hands of her family, Lydia was prepared to be an accommodating wife; but her rigid and unforgiving husband asked too much of her. After languishing for years in her opulent prison, Lydia leaves her country estate for the glamour and excitement of London—and unfortunately her husband’s path.
As the head of his family, Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten, was accustomed to dealing with various problems his siblings had caused of one sort or another. However he wasn’t prepared when his cad of brother ruined and then abandoned a young lady. To right the wrong, Robert married the girl himself; but his chivalry only went so far. He didn’t want a wife, and most certainly not a scandalous one. So after repeating his vows, he sent her packing, off to a secluded estate and expected her to stay put.
After years of mistreatment at the hands of her family, Lydia was prepared to be an accommodating wife; but her rigid and unforgiving husband asked too much of her. After languishing for years in her opulent prison, Lydia leaves her country estate for the glamour and excitement of London—and unfortunately her husband’s path.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2011
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About the author
Ava Stone
140 books227 followersAva Stone is a USA Today bestselling author of Regency historical romance and college age New Adult romance. Whether in the 19th Century or the 21st, her books explore deep themes but with a light touch. A single mother, Ava lives outside Raleigh NC, with her son and two black and white tuxedo kitty cats. She loves classic movies, researching history, and traveling whenever she gets the chance.
Feel free to visit her at www.avastoneauthor.com and www.desolatesun.com
Feel free to visit her at www.avastoneauthor.com and www.desolatesun.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
August 26, 2011
Let me tell you, I really don't know why this girl didn't plot her family's murder. Her family treats her like shit, and does all sorts of terrible things to her. Then some pedophile gets it on with her at 16, ruining her. The pedophile's brother could give a shit about her, but is worried about the family's name, so he marries her. He also calls her a whore and sends her off to a remote country estate. Asshole.
So after 5 years she says, fuck this shit, and moves to london. Of course, her husband sees her at a ball and totally lusts after her until his friend points out that she is his wife. Score! He totally hits it! Misunderstandings insue, bad names are thrown at one another, no one fucking trusts each other, and hott sexx happens! I just couldn't like this book as much because of all the whore and slut comments. And the rape. Nothing ruins a romance more than rape.
So after 5 years she says, fuck this shit, and moves to london. Of course, her husband sees her at a ball and totally lusts after her until his friend points out that she is his wife. Score! He totally hits it! Misunderstandings insue, bad names are thrown at one another, no one fucking trusts each other, and hott sexx happens! I just couldn't like this book as much because of all the whore and slut comments. And the rape. Nothing ruins a romance more than rape.
November 12, 2017
What a mess of awful characters.
Luke, the younger son, is caught in bed with Lydia the h. The stuffy, arrogant older brother ends up marrying her to save the family from scandal; then leaves her at the estate after calling her ugly names.
The beginning of the book the H sees an attractive woman at the ball. It’s his wife; he orders her home; she finds two orphans; he’s rude and bossy; he falls in love; his ex-mistress swims by; the ratfink brother shows up to smarm around and slut-shame the h he had sex with at 16 in the first place; the h has more family secrets, and the scandal swirls around the h again because little brother is a selfish swine and deserves to die a slow and painful death. Really, I would have added a star if Luke had been killed somehow.
This story simmered at 2-3 stars until..
I did like how the H and his sister help redeem the h’s reputation by using the younger brother and his reputation mercilessly.
Luke, the younger son, is caught in bed with Lydia the h. The stuffy, arrogant older brother ends up marrying her to save the family from scandal; then leaves her at the estate after calling her ugly names.
The beginning of the book the H sees an attractive woman at the ball. It’s his wife; he orders her home; she finds two orphans; he’s rude and bossy; he falls in love; his ex-mistress swims by; the ratfink brother shows up to smarm around and slut-shame the h he had sex with at 16 in the first place; the h has more family secrets, and the scandal swirls around the h again because little brother is a selfish swine and deserves to die a slow and painful death. Really, I would have added a star if Luke had been killed somehow.
This story simmered at 2-3 stars until..
I did like how the H and his sister help redeem the h’s reputation by using the younger brother and his reputation mercilessly.
October 24, 2020
4 solid stars
The book has got a lot of hate and mixed reviews but for me it's a well paced book with something or the other that keeps happening to keep me invested.
*Major spoilers*
The book has got a lot of hate and mixed reviews but for me it's a well paced book with something or the other that keeps happening to keep me invested.
*Major spoilers*
February 23, 2015
I finished the book feeling rather confused. Who was the governess? Why had Luke gone to find her? It was as if there was a whole subplot that had been left hanging.
And please. Why do all the tall, dark, broodingly gorgeous men always ride a stallion called some predictable name like 'Satan' or 'Devil's Inferno' or 'Midnight'? Phallic symbols? A real man wouldn't need a comfort blanket like that ;)
And please. Why do all the tall, dark, broodingly gorgeous men always ride a stallion called some predictable name like 'Satan' or 'Devil's Inferno' or 'Midnight'? Phallic symbols? A real man wouldn't need a comfort blanket like that ;)
August 17, 2018
A Scandalous Wife. Hmm…where do I begin.
A very young and naïve woman, Lady Lydia Beckford, is caught in a compromising position with Lucas the brother of Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten. In order to save the family’s name from scandal, Robert ends up marrying her and then banishes her away to the country estate. He doesn’t lay eyes on her until he spots her at a society ball. He even goes as far as to try to find his friend a wife and points her out in the process. His friend is full of laughter when Robert is told that the lady in question is his own wife. Seeing how beautiful she has become over the years, and the focus of every man’s eyes he is bent on making sure she gets sent back to the country to avoid another scandal for the family. There’s the crux and starts the hate to love story between the two.
In order to complete his mission of sending her back to the country, he has to obtain physical control over her. He then comes up with a lie that he needs an heir and she is forced to live with him until she is with child. After the birth he will send her back to the country. Being in so close proximity, they become attracted to one another much too soon in the story. As there was much dislike between the two, I would have liked a little more banter. The story has its moments as it includes the possibility of scandal to her name again, a “somewhat” changed long-lost brother, a mistress that becomes spiteful and two adopted children that somehow went cold in the story. There are times that made you want to hit the jerk of an Earl for his overbearing belief in propriety, but there are moments where you wanted to fall for him. Each character had much to learn from one another. Robert breaking down his hatred for Lydia because of the past and Lydia, not wanting to be cast aside because of one discretion.
Having never read any of Ava Stone’s novels, this was an okay read me. The story had me starting, then putting it away, then re-starting and then putting it down again. To keep myself from a DNF, I decided to finish without stopping.
3.0 Stars
A very young and naïve woman, Lady Lydia Beckford, is caught in a compromising position with Lucas the brother of Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten. In order to save the family’s name from scandal, Robert ends up marrying her and then banishes her away to the country estate. He doesn’t lay eyes on her until he spots her at a society ball. He even goes as far as to try to find his friend a wife and points her out in the process. His friend is full of laughter when Robert is told that the lady in question is his own wife. Seeing how beautiful she has become over the years, and the focus of every man’s eyes he is bent on making sure she gets sent back to the country to avoid another scandal for the family. There’s the crux and starts the hate to love story between the two.
In order to complete his mission of sending her back to the country, he has to obtain physical control over her. He then comes up with a lie that he needs an heir and she is forced to live with him until she is with child. After the birth he will send her back to the country. Being in so close proximity, they become attracted to one another much too soon in the story. As there was much dislike between the two, I would have liked a little more banter. The story has its moments as it includes the possibility of scandal to her name again, a “somewhat” changed long-lost brother, a mistress that becomes spiteful and two adopted children that somehow went cold in the story. There are times that made you want to hit the jerk of an Earl for his overbearing belief in propriety, but there are moments where you wanted to fall for him. Each character had much to learn from one another. Robert breaking down his hatred for Lydia because of the past and Lydia, not wanting to be cast aside because of one discretion.
Having never read any of Ava Stone’s novels, this was an okay read me. The story had me starting, then putting it away, then re-starting and then putting it down again. To keep myself from a DNF, I decided to finish without stopping.
3.0 Stars
March 12, 2018
First, I need to make it clear- there are threads introduced that may or may not be covered in the sequels, but are just plain confusing in this first book in the series.
The trope is a common one in HR- the hero marries the heroine to save the family honor, but sends her away to "the country" to keep her out of the way, only to have her show up in London and the hero falls for her/ is attracted to her before he realizes that's his wife.
What makes this book more intriguing is the backstory for some of the characters.
While this could have been intense, I just found the development of the relationship between the two main characters unrealistic.
Not sure whether I'll read the sequels or not.
The trope is a common one in HR- the hero marries the heroine to save the family honor, but sends her away to "the country" to keep her out of the way, only to have her show up in London and the hero falls for her/ is attracted to her before he realizes that's his wife.
What makes this book more intriguing is the backstory for some of the characters.
While this could have been intense, I just found the development of the relationship between the two main characters unrealistic.
Not sure whether I'll read the sequels or not.
May 14, 2017
This was a slightly different take on the usual girl-meets-duke kind of story. The two main characters fall in love LONG after getting married.
Both were very delightful and strong in their ideas, however, not unyielding. I particularly loved the scene when she accidentally stabs him with her knitting needles.
Both were very delightful and strong in their ideas, however, not unyielding. I particularly loved the scene when she accidentally stabs him with her knitting needles.
December 24, 2018
Could have been worse
An earl married a young woman after his brother ruined her, to save all their reputations. After the wedding he relegated her to a lonely mansion far from Society. Five years later, she tires of paying for a girlhood mistake and returns to London. Unexpectedly, she and her estranged husband fall in love over the course of a couple weeks and live happily ever after. I was exceedingly bored with the main characters, thought the Regency trappings were thin and unconvincing, and thought the whole "let's adopt to random urchins who immediately love us" subplot was better left on the editing table.
An earl married a young woman after his brother ruined her, to save all their reputations. After the wedding he relegated her to a lonely mansion far from Society. Five years later, she tires of paying for a girlhood mistake and returns to London. Unexpectedly, she and her estranged husband fall in love over the course of a couple weeks and live happily ever after. I was exceedingly bored with the main characters, thought the Regency trappings were thin and unconvincing, and thought the whole "let's adopt to random urchins who immediately love us" subplot was better left on the editing table.
February 20, 2021
Emotionally gripping book about a stuffy brother who marries the girl his younger brother "spoiled". Naturally, being back in the day the younger brother is not "spoiled" just the girl. However, these attitudes would be true for the times.
Much drama issues as Lydia, said "spoiled' girl, finds her voice and stands up for herself. The hero does change something he needed to do VERY much.
Much drama issues as Lydia, said "spoiled' girl, finds her voice and stands up for herself. The hero does change something he needed to do VERY much.
November 4, 2012
This book was a pleasant read. I had downloaded the 2nd in the series when it was offered for free. I had waited a while, and then bought this one. I don't like to start a series in the middle. The story of the main romance in the book was very good, and a lot of fun to read. I found most of the story enjoyable. The wife of the story has suffered many times and has to overcome the scars of her past. It ends happily with plenty of humor mixed in.
That all being said, once I read the 2nd book (Scandalous Charade)I was annoyed, because the book starts before the beginning of this book, ends after. Many of the characters are the same and ALOT of Scandalous Charade is taken directly (very nearly word for word) from Scandalous Wife. This is the reason that I have given both stories lesser ratings. I found reading the 2nd book that I nearly didn't finish the book because I was tired of all the repetition. Although the story was different, I think that the author could have been a little more creative with the story telling. Further there was a mistake, The governess who attened a party in book one wore one of the Countesses dresses a pink dress, in the Second book, the governess wore a dark blue dress from her own collection to the very same party. If the author is going to copy details then they shouldn't mess them up like this.
That all being said, once I read the 2nd book (Scandalous Charade)I was annoyed, because the book starts before the beginning of this book, ends after. Many of the characters are the same and ALOT of Scandalous Charade is taken directly (very nearly word for word) from Scandalous Wife. This is the reason that I have given both stories lesser ratings. I found reading the 2nd book that I nearly didn't finish the book because I was tired of all the repetition. Although the story was different, I think that the author could have been a little more creative with the story telling. Further there was a mistake, The governess who attened a party in book one wore one of the Countesses dresses a pink dress, in the Second book, the governess wore a dark blue dress from her own collection to the very same party. If the author is going to copy details then they shouldn't mess them up like this.
April 7, 2012
3,5*
3* untuk cerita, tambah 1/2* lagi buat kedua tokoh yang saat mendengar gosip jelek tentang pasangan mereka nanya langsung ama pasangannnya.
bukannya galau sendiri memikirkan apakah gosip yang didengar benar atau salah ataupun juga langsung mengamini hasutan dari tokoh2 lain dan tanpa mikir kabur meninggalkan pasangannya... padahal yang seperti inilah biasanya pola utama dari cerita romance :)
3* untuk cerita, tambah 1/2* lagi buat kedua tokoh yang saat mendengar gosip jelek tentang pasangan mereka nanya langsung ama pasangannnya.
bukannya galau sendiri memikirkan apakah gosip yang didengar benar atau salah ataupun juga langsung mengamini hasutan dari tokoh2 lain dan tanpa mikir kabur meninggalkan pasangannya... padahal yang seperti inilah biasanya pola utama dari cerita romance :)
July 18, 2011
I'm having trouble finishing this. UGH!
April 4, 2017
Quelle histoire ! Mais quel courage, quelle force de la nature - comment a-t-elle réussi à ne pas devenir folle, aigrie après tout ce qu'elle a subit. Un roman émouvant
December 23, 2017
3 *meh* stars.
The premise was good. A young woman is caught having pre-marital relations with a man, and to avoid the scandal, the man's brother married the lady. As he despises her, he sends her away to a house away from London for years, until she tires of being there lonely and comes back to London at the call of her sister-in-law.
I expected a good from a hate-to-love story, but soon after they are forced to meet they come to terms and fall in love early in the book. A scandal that threatens to ruin her good name in society, a vengeful ex-mistress, a long-lost brother that comes back apparently changed, and two adopted children should have made this a very entertaining read, but it just fell flat. It took me forever to finish it, and the ending was too rush, and some subplots were left unfinished, though I guess that'll be food for a next book.
The premise was good. A young woman is caught having pre-marital relations with a man, and to avoid the scandal, the man's brother married the lady. As he despises her, he sends her away to a house away from London for years, until she tires of being there lonely and comes back to London at the call of her sister-in-law.
I expected a good from a hate-to-love story, but soon after they are forced to meet they come to terms and fall in love early in the book. A scandal that threatens to ruin her good name in society, a vengeful ex-mistress, a long-lost brother that comes back apparently changed, and two adopted children should have made this a very entertaining read, but it just fell flat. It took me forever to finish it, and the ending was too rush, and some subplots were left unfinished, though I guess that'll be food for a next book.
October 10, 2013
This book was quite an emotional experience for me because at the heart, it's about how a woman conquered very traumatic personal experiences through grace, endurance, and yes, through love.
Lydia, the heroine, is a woman of strength because of her resilience to the suffering inflicted by all the men in her life. My goodness, I wish it were not so, but this woman was let down by every male with a major role in her life: her father, her only brother and then her husband (& his scoundrel of a brother). She should have been a psychological basket case, but instead we are presented with a mature, independent and loving woman. Lydia has a heart of gold and is absolutely enchanting & sweet!
The hero in this story is no Prince Charming...well, at least, not at first. Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten marries Lydia at the tender age of 16-years old in order to protect the good name of his family and avoid a scandal. His good-for-nothing, brother Lucas Beckford was found in bed with Lydia and of course, in this society, the woman is always to blame & the male comes out of the scandal unscathed. Lucas abandons Lydia which leaves big-brother Robert the role of sweeping in to fix the problem which is his normal relationship-pattern with his little brother who is irresponsible & a complete rake.
I was angry with the way Robert treated Lydia. For 5 years, he made her stay in a country estate as a bird in a gilded cage, away from society. After his vows and before he sent her off into her exile, he said some very harsh words. During her "exile," Lydia grows up and develops quite a strong character. She encounters Robert for the first time since their wedding, at her sister-in law, Caroline's ball. At first sight, Robert becomes enamored with Lydia, but he didn't know she was his wife until it was pointed out to him by a friend. He did not recognize her as she grew up and was now a stunning, beautiful woman he was drawn to. Well, needless to say, Robert seeks her out and the two fall in love, but this path toward love is quite a process.
Robert is a harsh man and he says very harsh things to Lydia that made me cringe. Robert has quite a temper. He's one of those men who are rough around the edges & is definitely an alpha male. Well, he definitely met his match with Lydia. I love how she stands up to him. Robert is so high-handed and you just want to kill him, but .........THANKFULLY, Robert does transform and becomes a wonderful, loving husband who gets to know Lydia and realizes how wrong he was in judging her. He becomes her fiercest defender, both of her honor and of her person, when she is in real danger.
There are yet some very emotional twists in this story that emerge and kind of take the air out of you. But, overall, it's a triumphant read. I really loved how Lydia brought home two orphans with the intention to keep them with her. Robert allowed her to keep the children and I love how he even developed a wonderful love for the children and adopted them. Lydia has so much love to give to others. Robert was a smart man to recognize that in her. There are many tender moments with the children that warmed my heart.
I was very upset with Robert's brother, Lucas. He was such a jerk to Lydia, an unrepentant jerk. But, at the very end he did transform as a character as well, which I was grateful for. I was so elated that he sacrificed his reputation in the grand scheme that he, Caroline (who is Robert & Lucas's sister), Clayworth (family friend), and Chet (family Friend) as well as Chet's mother engaged in to save Lydia from a new scandal brought about by Robert's vindictive ex-mistress. I was happy karma finally caught up to Lucas. I'm not too happy that he's the hero in the next book because he has left a bitter taste in my mouth! I don't know how I can like him as a hero after what a complete ninny he's been.
This will be one of my favorite books to go back and read over because I love a story with such a huge transformation as the hero, Robert, encountered. You will hardly recognize him from the beginning of the book to the end of the book. Oh, he's still tough & quite the fierce protector, but his energy & love is directed toward his wife. This is a story with a very redemptive ending.
Audiobook Narrator:
WOW! I hesitated to listen to this book because I just don't care for male narrators for Regency novels. However, Stevie is a female! And, she is quite talented in her ability to create male and female voices and characters. SHe was just superb! Loved her narration!
Lydia, the heroine, is a woman of strength because of her resilience to the suffering inflicted by all the men in her life. My goodness, I wish it were not so, but this woman was let down by every male with a major role in her life: her father, her only brother and then her husband (& his scoundrel of a brother). She should have been a psychological basket case, but instead we are presented with a mature, independent and loving woman. Lydia has a heart of gold and is absolutely enchanting & sweet!
The hero in this story is no Prince Charming...well, at least, not at first. Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten marries Lydia at the tender age of 16-years old in order to protect the good name of his family and avoid a scandal. His good-for-nothing, brother Lucas Beckford was found in bed with Lydia and of course, in this society, the woman is always to blame & the male comes out of the scandal unscathed. Lucas abandons Lydia which leaves big-brother Robert the role of sweeping in to fix the problem which is his normal relationship-pattern with his little brother who is irresponsible & a complete rake.
I was angry with the way Robert treated Lydia. For 5 years, he made her stay in a country estate as a bird in a gilded cage, away from society. After his vows and before he sent her off into her exile, he said some very harsh words. During her "exile," Lydia grows up and develops quite a strong character. She encounters Robert for the first time since their wedding, at her sister-in law, Caroline's ball. At first sight, Robert becomes enamored with Lydia, but he didn't know she was his wife until it was pointed out to him by a friend. He did not recognize her as she grew up and was now a stunning, beautiful woman he was drawn to. Well, needless to say, Robert seeks her out and the two fall in love, but this path toward love is quite a process.
Robert is a harsh man and he says very harsh things to Lydia that made me cringe. Robert has quite a temper. He's one of those men who are rough around the edges & is definitely an alpha male. Well, he definitely met his match with Lydia. I love how she stands up to him. Robert is so high-handed and you just want to kill him, but .........THANKFULLY, Robert does transform and becomes a wonderful, loving husband who gets to know Lydia and realizes how wrong he was in judging her. He becomes her fiercest defender, both of her honor and of her person, when she is in real danger.
There are yet some very emotional twists in this story that emerge and kind of take the air out of you. But, overall, it's a triumphant read. I really loved how Lydia brought home two orphans with the intention to keep them with her. Robert allowed her to keep the children and I love how he even developed a wonderful love for the children and adopted them. Lydia has so much love to give to others. Robert was a smart man to recognize that in her. There are many tender moments with the children that warmed my heart.
I was very upset with Robert's brother, Lucas. He was such a jerk to Lydia, an unrepentant jerk. But, at the very end he did transform as a character as well, which I was grateful for. I was so elated that he sacrificed his reputation in the grand scheme that he, Caroline (who is Robert & Lucas's sister), Clayworth (family friend), and Chet (family Friend) as well as Chet's mother engaged in to save Lydia from a new scandal brought about by Robert's vindictive ex-mistress. I was happy karma finally caught up to Lucas. I'm not too happy that he's the hero in the next book because he has left a bitter taste in my mouth! I don't know how I can like him as a hero after what a complete ninny he's been.
This will be one of my favorite books to go back and read over because I love a story with such a huge transformation as the hero, Robert, encountered. You will hardly recognize him from the beginning of the book to the end of the book. Oh, he's still tough & quite the fierce protector, but his energy & love is directed toward his wife. This is a story with a very redemptive ending.
Audiobook Narrator:
WOW! I hesitated to listen to this book because I just don't care for male narrators for Regency novels. However, Stevie is a female! And, she is quite talented in her ability to create male and female voices and characters. SHe was just superb! Loved her narration!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2013
**Actual Rating**: 3.99 stars
**Book Format**: kindle ebook
There are two people I despise in this book, no wait, three. Two men, and a single woman. First, I hate Lucas, the main character's younger brother, and the man who was found in bed with the other main character, Lydia. Not only did he defile her, thereby forcing Robert to marry her and save their family name, but just when Lydia and Rob are reaching their happily ever after, he does everything in his power - consciously and unconsciously - to break them apart. Of course, it wasn't exactly his fault (I'll let you depict the meaning of that), but I still hate him, SO THERE! *stubborn look*. The second person I hate - and this is the person I hate the MOST, possibly even more than Hitler - is Henry, Lydia's sister. I can't tell you why I hate him so much without giving away something the reader should find out on their own, but I know FOR A FACT that you'll end up hating him too, as soon as the second time you hear his name. The last person I hate in this book is a side character, but an evil *insert bad word here* nonetheless. She is Robert's ex-mistress (I still can't believe he was a cad), and I'm pretty sure you can figure out that story yourself.
In the beginning of the story, Robert and Lydia are both at the ball, though they don't realize the other is also there until a while later. Robert sees Lydia and calls her "pretty", recommending her to his friend Chet. Frankly, he's insulted when Chet laughs him off. When Rob asks him why he's laughing, he says that that's because that "pretty" lady is his wife. Amazed? So was I *giggling*. So they'd been married for 5 years, but haven't seen eachvother since then. As you probably know from my little hate list up at the top, Rob was forced to marry Lydia, and married her ASAP when she was 16, then sent her away and hadn't seen her since, well, now. You can't really blame him though, since he thinks that she's a whore, as she and Luke (Lucas) were found naked in bed together. Though this looks discriminating, you can guess what actually happens. I mean, I'm going to tell you that this is a happy ending, and I'm not going to consider that a spoiler. I mean, how many books can you name (that isn't part of a series) that doesn't have a happy ending? I'll tell you: not many.
Still, I think this book was worth the read if you're looking for a predictable HEA. I mean, who doesn't want to read those once in a while? Unfortunately for me though, I apparently wasn't in the mood for a regency romance. I just read one last week and it was still too soon to read another. I was desperately bored for about 20-30% of the book. Right now, I'm in the mood for something super violent and not too happy...yes, I know I'm a weirdo. Still, even throughout my boredom, it was easy to see that this book was actually really well written and deserves at least the 3.99-4 stars I decided to give it.
I just can't get over that Henry character. He's just "messed up" as my brother would say. If I see him again, I'd kill him! Okay, fine, I wouldn't kill him. I still hate him though *pouting*. And the next book centers around Lucas, one of the other guys I hated in this book. I mean, he's actually a really good guy, and I guess - in stories at least - the perfect woman can make a selfish rake become, well, Good. Still, I don't know if I can put up with his own romantic story. I guess he made up for most of his sins when he lied to the Ton about him being sterile *snicker*. He totally deserved that!
Well, I realize I'm blabbering now, which means I should probably end this review. Happy reading! (how many reviews do I end with that phrase?!)
**Book Format**: kindle ebook
There are two people I despise in this book, no wait, three. Two men, and a single woman. First, I hate Lucas, the main character's younger brother, and the man who was found in bed with the other main character, Lydia. Not only did he defile her, thereby forcing Robert to marry her and save their family name, but just when Lydia and Rob are reaching their happily ever after, he does everything in his power - consciously and unconsciously - to break them apart. Of course, it wasn't exactly his fault (I'll let you depict the meaning of that), but I still hate him, SO THERE! *stubborn look*. The second person I hate - and this is the person I hate the MOST, possibly even more than Hitler - is Henry, Lydia's sister. I can't tell you why I hate him so much without giving away something the reader should find out on their own, but I know FOR A FACT that you'll end up hating him too, as soon as the second time you hear his name. The last person I hate in this book is a side character, but an evil *insert bad word here* nonetheless. She is Robert's ex-mistress (I still can't believe he was a cad), and I'm pretty sure you can figure out that story yourself.
In the beginning of the story, Robert and Lydia are both at the ball, though they don't realize the other is also there until a while later. Robert sees Lydia and calls her "pretty", recommending her to his friend Chet. Frankly, he's insulted when Chet laughs him off. When Rob asks him why he's laughing, he says that that's because that "pretty" lady is his wife. Amazed? So was I *giggling*. So they'd been married for 5 years, but haven't seen eachvother since then. As you probably know from my little hate list up at the top, Rob was forced to marry Lydia, and married her ASAP when she was 16, then sent her away and hadn't seen her since, well, now. You can't really blame him though, since he thinks that she's a whore, as she and Luke (Lucas) were found naked in bed together. Though this looks discriminating, you can guess what actually happens. I mean, I'm going to tell you that this is a happy ending, and I'm not going to consider that a spoiler. I mean, how many books can you name (that isn't part of a series) that doesn't have a happy ending? I'll tell you: not many.
Still, I think this book was worth the read if you're looking for a predictable HEA. I mean, who doesn't want to read those once in a while? Unfortunately for me though, I apparently wasn't in the mood for a regency romance. I just read one last week and it was still too soon to read another. I was desperately bored for about 20-30% of the book. Right now, I'm in the mood for something super violent and not too happy...yes, I know I'm a weirdo. Still, even throughout my boredom, it was easy to see that this book was actually really well written and deserves at least the 3.99-4 stars I decided to give it.
I just can't get over that Henry character. He's just "messed up" as my brother would say. If I see him again, I'd kill him! Okay, fine, I wouldn't kill him. I still hate him though *pouting*. And the next book centers around Lucas, one of the other guys I hated in this book. I mean, he's actually a really good guy, and I guess - in stories at least - the perfect woman can make a selfish rake become, well, Good. Still, I don't know if I can put up with his own romantic story. I guess he made up for most of his sins when he lied to the Ton about him being sterile *snicker*. He totally deserved that!
Well, I realize I'm blabbering now, which means I should probably end this review. Happy reading! (how many reviews do I end with that phrase?!)
September 6, 2020
Meh...
The story lacked angst. It sounded as a hate-to-love but it was more of a misjudged to loved plot.
Robert married Lydia, who was found in bed with his brother Lucas.
Now I see some reviews hating on Rob because he was too harsh but given the time, I think not.
Lydia was not just compromised as she later admits, she was ruined meaning she fully had sex with Lucas! Knowning he won't marry and it is a house party you are attending with your aunt, that was quite immoral for a young lady of that time!
Robert step in when Lucas flew, and he marries her, makes her an countess and deposits her in a country estate for 5 years. She was just 16 at the time and when the story starts she is 21.
Now everyone in the story was mad at him for abadonning her for 5 years. I was not. I hated Lydia in the beginning when she acting all tough and mightly. B*tch you had an agreement with him that you broke by coming to London without letting him know, of course he wont be happy and demands that you return.
She was acting quite childish and stubborn for the 1st chapters. I guess it made her cute in Rob's eyes so he felt for her.
Then they quickly get together and the rest of the story is them fighting for 1 second and reconciling the next page.
Robert was not the heartless monster everyone thought. After he confessed his love for his wife, he made sure to stand for her and defend her whenever people would slander her. Including his lame brother Luke. Another hero would have left her and come back to apologize near the end but no, Robert remained at her side until the end.
I didn't like Lydia, I like Robert better and that was my issue because in romances, I prefer to root for the lady and hate the man lool!
The romance was not extraordinary. Plus, we have a scorned ex who became vengeful at the end, a taboo secret revealed that made me quite uncomfortable...
Just 2 stars
The story lacked angst. It sounded as a hate-to-love but it was more of a misjudged to loved plot.
Robert married Lydia, who was found in bed with his brother Lucas.
Now I see some reviews hating on Rob because he was too harsh but given the time, I think not.
Lydia was not just compromised as she later admits, she was ruined meaning she fully had sex with Lucas! Knowning he won't marry and it is a house party you are attending with your aunt, that was quite immoral for a young lady of that time!
Robert step in when Lucas flew, and he marries her, makes her an countess and deposits her in a country estate for 5 years. She was just 16 at the time and when the story starts she is 21.
Now everyone in the story was mad at him for abadonning her for 5 years. I was not. I hated Lydia in the beginning when she acting all tough and mightly. B*tch you had an agreement with him that you broke by coming to London without letting him know, of course he wont be happy and demands that you return.
She was acting quite childish and stubborn for the 1st chapters. I guess it made her cute in Rob's eyes so he felt for her.
Then they quickly get together and the rest of the story is them fighting for 1 second and reconciling the next page.
Robert was not the heartless monster everyone thought. After he confessed his love for his wife, he made sure to stand for her and defend her whenever people would slander her. Including his lame brother Luke. Another hero would have left her and come back to apologize near the end but no, Robert remained at her side until the end.
I didn't like Lydia, I like Robert better and that was my issue because in romances, I prefer to root for the lady and hate the man lool!
The romance was not extraordinary. Plus, we have a scorned ex who became vengeful at the end, a taboo secret revealed that made me quite uncomfortable...
Just 2 stars
June 12, 2015
Five long years. That’s how long Lady Lydia Beckford has been banished to the country estate of her husband. A husband she was given no choice but to wed because of a youthful indiscretion. Well, she’s had enough & arrives in London to stay with her cousins. When she comes face to face with her husband she informs him that she is no longer following his rules.
Robert Beckworth, Earl of Masten, has a wife. A wife that he had no choice but to marry to keep scandal away from the family name. A wife he neither wants nor desires. He’s been fine with her at his country estate & he living in London. Until he spots a stunning creature entering his sister’s ball. Shocked that this stunning creature is his wife. Furious that she is in London. When she faces him & informs him she is no longer following his rules a challenge has been issued.
Robert plots a way to return his wife to the country before she can create a scandal. A plot that will keep her in close proximity until she is with child where he will then send her back to his country estate. Lydia wonders if she can go through with this plan of Robert’s. After all a child of her own will make the country less lonely. That is if he will let her keep the child – the question is will he?
As Robert learns about Lydia’s past will it change his opinion of her? Will seeing a different side of Robert break down the hatred Lydia has for the way he’s treated her in the past? Can either one of them go through with Robert’s plan without having their heart broken?
Ava Stone has written a wonderful story of 2 strangers thrown together because of an indiscretion. A pair of orphans & knitting needles will have you laughing. Just beware Robert will have you wanting to smack his head for being a pompous jerk then falling in love with him yourself.
Robert Beckworth, Earl of Masten, has a wife. A wife that he had no choice but to marry to keep scandal away from the family name. A wife he neither wants nor desires. He’s been fine with her at his country estate & he living in London. Until he spots a stunning creature entering his sister’s ball. Shocked that this stunning creature is his wife. Furious that she is in London. When she faces him & informs him she is no longer following his rules a challenge has been issued.
Robert plots a way to return his wife to the country before she can create a scandal. A plot that will keep her in close proximity until she is with child where he will then send her back to his country estate. Lydia wonders if she can go through with this plan of Robert’s. After all a child of her own will make the country less lonely. That is if he will let her keep the child – the question is will he?
As Robert learns about Lydia’s past will it change his opinion of her? Will seeing a different side of Robert break down the hatred Lydia has for the way he’s treated her in the past? Can either one of them go through with Robert’s plan without having their heart broken?
Ava Stone has written a wonderful story of 2 strangers thrown together because of an indiscretion. A pair of orphans & knitting needles will have you laughing. Just beware Robert will have you wanting to smack his head for being a pompous jerk then falling in love with him yourself.
May 28, 2012
Let me give you the background on how I came across this book. About this time last year Amazon was suggesting this series to me. I have been reading romance novels for about a year now (I took a hiatus on reading them), and was looking for something new to read. I told myself what the heck the story plot sounded interesting to me.
At the opening of the book you meet Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten at his sister's ball. He catches a glimpse of a beautiful woman. Little does he know that it is his wife, Lydia. Five years earlier Robert marries the girl to save the reputation of his family. After the vows were said and done he dumps her off at one of his country estates never to think of her again. A little older now, Lydia decides that she is tired of being cooped up in her gilded prison. So, Lydia makes her way to London to enjoy a season, no longer caring what her husband thinks. Robert has an urge to get the situation under control again and get his wife back to her place back in the country. He comes up with a plan that no man of his standing could fault him.
What you will find in this book will be a scoundrel of a brother, a bastard of a brother, a vindictive ex-mistress, and an unfortunate past that makes this book a worth while read.
ALL my really good friends know that I LOVE this series. After reading the first book I told each of them (the ones who love a good romance) to get this book. So, you really should check this book out and I'm sure you will love it.
At the opening of the book you meet Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten at his sister's ball. He catches a glimpse of a beautiful woman. Little does he know that it is his wife, Lydia. Five years earlier Robert marries the girl to save the reputation of his family. After the vows were said and done he dumps her off at one of his country estates never to think of her again. A little older now, Lydia decides that she is tired of being cooped up in her gilded prison. So, Lydia makes her way to London to enjoy a season, no longer caring what her husband thinks. Robert has an urge to get the situation under control again and get his wife back to her place back in the country. He comes up with a plan that no man of his standing could fault him.
What you will find in this book will be a scoundrel of a brother, a bastard of a brother, a vindictive ex-mistress, and an unfortunate past that makes this book a worth while read.
ALL my really good friends know that I LOVE this series. After reading the first book I told each of them (the ones who love a good romance) to get this book. So, you really should check this book out and I'm sure you will love it.
February 28, 2015
Robert Beckford, Earl of Masten believes in propriety. When his brother "Lucas" ruins a young lady and swears she was already ruined Robert marries her himself out of family honor. The problem is he believes her to be no better then a whore. He sends her away to live on one of his far away estates hoping to never deal with her again.
When he finds her in London, friends with his sister he is furious and wants her to go back where he put her while still disliking her and calling her insulting names.
These people find their way to love but many secrets come to light. Lucas the brother who ruined her comes back and doesn't approve of their new relationship thinking she's not good enough for his brother. Her long last brother comes back into her life bringing his own secrets. Many other things are involved in this story. Well rounded and interesting. HEA
I have tried to not give spoilers so I can't tell you much except give this book a read!!!!
to-read-own
November 12, 2017Highly skeptical of this one, but it's free. If I ever get around to it I'll see :D
Very pretty cover pic, but doesn't look Regency period to me, at all.
Plus, apparently Hero married Heroine out of concern for his family's good name. Which makes zero sense. There was no danger to the "family name" if his brother dallied with someone considered a whore - even if she was considered that because of the brother's lecherous and pedophile behavior. Society turned a blind eye to young men having dalliances, even when those dalliances were actually rape. It was the woman's reputation that took the hit.
The only reason here that would make sense is if he were an honorable man and cared about his brother's actions ruining HER reputation. Obviously not the case here since he's calling her a whore too.
So, yeah, giving this one the side eye.
Very pretty cover pic, but doesn't look Regency period to me, at all.
Plus, apparently Hero married Heroine out of concern for his family's good name. Which makes zero sense. There was no danger to the "family name" if his brother dallied with someone considered a whore - even if she was considered that because of the brother's lecherous and pedophile behavior. Society turned a blind eye to young men having dalliances, even when those dalliances were actually rape. It was the woman's reputation that took the hit.
The only reason here that would make sense is if he were an honorable man and cared about his brother's actions ruining HER reputation. Obviously not the case here since he's calling her a whore too.
So, yeah, giving this one the side eye.
February 25, 2012
I really liked this book!
This was a recommendation through amazon on my kindle. I viewed the sample because I was away from my goodreads...(I never buy a book without checking in with goodreads :)
My first impression was very freshman writing and a little cheesy but the plot snagged me. Of course, after 2 chapters, I had to buy it.
I was pleasantly surprised! This is Ava Stone's debut novel and there are a few issues. Especially the contemporary vernacular and the flavor of the story felt a bit modern to me. And although she daringly touched on some very touchy subjects, it wasn't especially deep.
But this hate to love story was engaging. The dialogue was good and the secondary characters make me want to continue the series.
Well worth my time!
This was a recommendation through amazon on my kindle. I viewed the sample because I was away from my goodreads...(I never buy a book without checking in with goodreads :)
My first impression was very freshman writing and a little cheesy but the plot snagged me. Of course, after 2 chapters, I had to buy it.
I was pleasantly surprised! This is Ava Stone's debut novel and there are a few issues. Especially the contemporary vernacular and the flavor of the story felt a bit modern to me. And although she daringly touched on some very touchy subjects, it wasn't especially deep.
But this hate to love story was engaging. The dialogue was good and the secondary characters make me want to continue the series.
Well worth my time!
May 18, 2016
Such a believable story about the lives of a compromised young lady and the man who married her to save her reputation.
But situations aren't always what they appear to be and the story unfolds painting quite a different picture.
It was so touching to see them realize that they had fallen in love with each other.
Beautifully written as a romance with many very touching scenes, and with intrigue and mysteries being solved too. A lovely tale about family life.
Ava Stone and Stevie Zimmerman make a good team and I recommend this as a great book/audiobook
But situations aren't always what they appear to be and the story unfolds painting quite a different picture.
It was so touching to see them realize that they had fallen in love with each other.
Beautifully written as a romance with many very touching scenes, and with intrigue and mysteries being solved too. A lovely tale about family life.
Ava Stone and Stevie Zimmerman make a good team and I recommend this as a great book/audiobook
July 21, 2020
Hmmm I am so disgusted with this book.
A brother rapes his sister and she knits him socks every year after that.
A husband who loves her but she can't trust him but she is ready to trust her rapist brother.
Luke sleeps with her but calls her a whore coz she is not a virgin.
Hero and heroine could have been such strong characters if you are writing tragedy have a good backup..... feels like utterly waste of time reading this book.
A brother rapes his sister and she knits him socks every year after that.
A husband who loves her but she can't trust him but she is ready to trust her rapist brother.
Luke sleeps with her but calls her a whore coz she is not a virgin.
Hero and heroine could have been such strong characters if you are writing tragedy have a good backup..... feels like utterly waste of time reading this book.
December 8, 2017
Great historical with a touch of spice!
Great historical with a little spice. Main characters are believable and likeable. Story line is a good one. The only thing missing was a little more detail/background in the j's brother to better understand/explain why he was the way he was. Still, it doesn't detract from the main story line.
Great historical with a little spice. Main characters are believable and likeable. Story line is a good one. The only thing missing was a little more detail/background in the j's brother to better understand/explain why he was the way he was. Still, it doesn't detract from the main story line.
May 27, 2011
This book takes the usual historical romance and turns it upside down. In this story the characters are already married, but in name only. The feelings and emotions of the characters are something that can be understood even in today's relationships. Good and entertaining read.
July 21, 2011
I liked some of the characters but found the plot somewhat lacking.
She could some more research on the regency era.
She could some more research on the regency era.
September 27, 2018
Not a romance just a bunch of BS to try and make this book exciting... just fell flat
Read
October 29, 2018.
Incest, rape, excessive sexual details … I had no interest in reading about these topics.
I read to find entertainment from humor, wit, and mental stimulation.
This is not my cup of tea!
Incest, rape, excessive sexual details … I had no interest in reading about these topics.
I read to find entertainment from humor, wit, and mental stimulation.
This is not my cup of tea!
May 19, 2018
Lydia is one of the strongest characters I have ever read....at 16 she thinks she is in love with Luke Beckford, and makes a stupid mistake, which young girls are wont to do...and gets caught...he takes off so to avoid a scandal his MUCH older brother Robert, the Earl of Masten, steps in, marries her, and proceeds to inforn her she is a whore, she deserves what she's got, and he sticks her in the country to rot...alone...
Well fast forward 5 years and Lydia isn't a little girl anymore, she's a grown woman now...she is DONE playing the docile little house mouse in the country, alone...she is ready to live...after all her 'husband' has been living it up in London, with friends, family, mistresses...so Lydia decides it is time for HER to assert herself. And when Robert sees her, at first he doesn't even recognize her, then it is a mission...get her BACK to the country so she can't cause any scandal...he is SUCH a jerk when we first meet him and it REALLY takes a LONG time to warm up to him...but when we FINALLY get Robert and Lydia connected, open, honest and communicating....in LOVE.
WOW, they are so perfect together...yes, he has his moments, after all he is a man set in his ways..,but he opens his heart so much, loves Lydia and his newly formef family so completely...it is just beyond perfection.
Chet, Bren, Caro, Beth, Jamie, Penny and Petey are wonderful characters and I adored them...but Luke...ugh not sure I will ever like him
But the Lord and Lady Masten and family are magical...I wish I could just spend more time with them ♡
Well fast forward 5 years and Lydia isn't a little girl anymore, she's a grown woman now...she is DONE playing the docile little house mouse in the country, alone...she is ready to live...after all her 'husband' has been living it up in London, with friends, family, mistresses...so Lydia decides it is time for HER to assert herself. And when Robert sees her, at first he doesn't even recognize her, then it is a mission...get her BACK to the country so she can't cause any scandal...he is SUCH a jerk when we first meet him and it REALLY takes a LONG time to warm up to him...but when we FINALLY get Robert and Lydia connected, open, honest and communicating....in LOVE.
WOW, they are so perfect together...yes, he has his moments, after all he is a man set in his ways..,but he opens his heart so much, loves Lydia and his newly formef family so completely...it is just beyond perfection.
Chet, Bren, Caro, Beth, Jamie, Penny and Petey are wonderful characters and I adored them...but Luke...ugh not sure I will ever like him
But the Lord and Lady Masten and family are magical...I wish I could just spend more time with them ♡
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