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Duchess Quartet #1.5
A Fool Again
A Fool Again is the story of Genevieve, who once made a dash to Gretna Greene to marry, but was caught by her father. Now, a few years later, she attends the funeral of her elderly husband ( not the man she ran away to marry) and who does she see but The One Who Got Away! Can they make their love work this time around or will Genevieve be A Fool Again ?
74 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2011
275 people are currently reading
1517 people want to read
About the author
Eloisa James
123 books9,543 followersNew York Times bestselling author Eloisa James writes historical romances for HarperCollins Publishers. Her novels have been published to great acclaim. A reviewer from USA Today wrote of Eloisa's very first book that she "found herself devouring the book like a dieter with a Hershey bar"; later People Magazine raved that "romance writing does not get much better than this." Her novels have repeatedly received starred reviews from Publishers' Weekly and Library Journal and regularly appear on the best-seller lists.
After graduating from Harvard University, Eloisa got an M.Phil. from Oxford University, a Ph.D. from Yale and eventually became a Shakespeare professor, publishing an academic book with Oxford University Press. Currently she is an associate professor and head of the Creative Writing program at Fordham University in New York City. Her "double life" is a source of fascination to the media and her readers. In her professorial guise, she's written a New York Times op-ed defending romance, as well as articles published everywhere from women's magazines such as More to writers' journals such as the Romance Writers' Report.
Eloisa...on her double life:
When I'm not writing novels, I'm a Shakespeare professor. It's rather like having two lives. The other day I bought a delicious pink suit to tape a television segment on romance; I'll never wear that suit to teach in, nor even to give a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference. It's like being Superman, with power suits for both lives. Yet the literature professor in me certainly plays into my romances. The Taming of the Duke (April 2006) has obvious Shakespearean resonances, as do many of my novels. I often weave early modern poetry into my work; the same novel might contain bits of Catullus, Shakespeare and anonymous bawdy ballads from the 16th century.
When I rip off my power suit, whether it's academic or romantic, underneath is the rather tired, chocolate-stained sweatshirt of a mom. Just as I use Shakespeare in my romances, I almost always employ my experiences as a mother. When I wrote about a miscarriage in Midnight Pleasures, I used my own fears of premature birth; when the little girl in Fool For Love threw up and threw up, I described my own daughter, who had that unsavory habit for well over her first year of life.
So I'm a writer, a professor, a mother - and a wife. My husband Alessandro is Italian, born in Florence. We spend the lazy summer months with his mother and sister in Italy. It always strikes me as a huge irony that as a romance writer I find myself married to a knight, a cavaliere, as you say in Italian.
One more thing...I'm a friend. I have girlfriends who are writers and girlfriends who are Shakespeare professors. And I have girlfriends who are romance readers. In fact, we have something of a community going on my website. Please stop by and join the conversation on my readers' pages.
After graduating from Harvard University, Eloisa got an M.Phil. from Oxford University, a Ph.D. from Yale and eventually became a Shakespeare professor, publishing an academic book with Oxford University Press. Currently she is an associate professor and head of the Creative Writing program at Fordham University in New York City. Her "double life" is a source of fascination to the media and her readers. In her professorial guise, she's written a New York Times op-ed defending romance, as well as articles published everywhere from women's magazines such as More to writers' journals such as the Romance Writers' Report.
Eloisa...on her double life:
When I'm not writing novels, I'm a Shakespeare professor. It's rather like having two lives. The other day I bought a delicious pink suit to tape a television segment on romance; I'll never wear that suit to teach in, nor even to give a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference. It's like being Superman, with power suits for both lives. Yet the literature professor in me certainly plays into my romances. The Taming of the Duke (April 2006) has obvious Shakespearean resonances, as do many of my novels. I often weave early modern poetry into my work; the same novel might contain bits of Catullus, Shakespeare and anonymous bawdy ballads from the 16th century.
When I rip off my power suit, whether it's academic or romantic, underneath is the rather tired, chocolate-stained sweatshirt of a mom. Just as I use Shakespeare in my romances, I almost always employ my experiences as a mother. When I wrote about a miscarriage in Midnight Pleasures, I used my own fears of premature birth; when the little girl in Fool For Love threw up and threw up, I described my own daughter, who had that unsavory habit for well over her first year of life.
So I'm a writer, a professor, a mother - and a wife. My husband Alessandro is Italian, born in Florence. We spend the lazy summer months with his mother and sister in Italy. It always strikes me as a huge irony that as a romance writer I find myself married to a knight, a cavaliere, as you say in Italian.
One more thing...I'm a friend. I have girlfriends who are writers and girlfriends who are Shakespeare professors. And I have girlfriends who are romance readers. In fact, we have something of a community going on my website. Please stop by and join the conversation on my readers' pages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
April 28, 2011
Thank goodness this was a free download and I didn't actually pay for it. I typically enjoy Eloisa James' books, but this one did not do it for me at all. At first I thought it might be due to the fact that it's a short story, but honestly, it was the character of Genevieve. I just didn't like her. The story started out okay, we meet Genevieve who is a young widower. Her one true love got away when her father interrupted their elopement to Gretna Green and then forced her to marry a much older gentleman. Due to her deceased husband's unorthodox provisions in his Will, Genevieve must marry one of his business partners or be left penniless. The story then jumps to a year later and she is still courting one of the business partners (who has still not shown much adoration or caring for her). He obviously has a shady past, but I never saw where it was revealed (which by this point I was skimming, so maybe I missed it). Then her one true love from her past comes back into the picture, but she refuses to give him the time of day even though he is now filthy rich.
Genevieve got on my last nerves. She acted like such a pompous who know what most of the time and reading about her was like listening to nails going down a chalkboard to me. Could not connect with her for anything , so unfortunately I found myself skimming to the end so I could say I finished it. Oh well, at least it was a short story and free!
Genevieve got on my last nerves. She acted like such a pompous who know what most of the time and reading about her was like listening to nails going down a chalkboard to me. Could not connect with her for anything , so unfortunately I found myself skimming to the end so I could say I finished it. Oh well, at least it was a short story and free!
February 22, 2017
Genevieve Mulcaster is newly widowed. She's amping up for an engagement with her dead husband's former business partner when her former elopement-buddy Tobias Darby shows up demanding a second go at the whole marriage thing.
1. This wasn't great.
2. In fact, it was pretty bad.
3. Genevieve starts off seemingly excited to be free from her unhappy marriage. Then she's into the fact that Lucius is proper. And the 180 is ridiculous.
4. Toby is a demanding shit.
5. It's not very well written.
1. This wasn't great.
2. In fact, it was pretty bad.
3. Genevieve starts off seemingly excited to be free from her unhappy marriage. Then she's into the fact that Lucius is proper. And the 180 is ridiculous.
4. Toby is a demanding shit.
5. It's not very well written.
March 15, 2019
DNF at 8%
Excruciatingly bad.
Excruciatingly bad.
December 18, 2012
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this, and I love EJ's writing style, but the heroine came off as ditzy rather than cute. I also actually liked the rival Felton, and I thought he was the hero at first, so that might have skewed my view on him. Tobias was a great hero...with his head up his ass. He never quite understood til it was too late that he'd compromised Genevieve (not just her virtue) but he'd taken away her choice. He did eventually realize it, but I didn't like how no one quite understood what the other felt.
Tobias and Genevieve almost eloped when they were young-her father caught them, before they hit Scotland, but they'd already consummated the, er, elopement. Twice ;P
But her father sent him away, and married Genevieve off to an old man and lied to her about Tobias. So 7 years later Tobias finds out she's a widow and comes back for her. It's very romantic.
Her best friend Carola was my favorite character:
"...Tobias Darby came all the way back from India, just to ask you to marry him! He's waited for you all these years, and now finally you're free," she sighed. "My husband would have just found a trout stream and drowned his sorrows."
the misunderstandings between them could have been dealt with sooner. It's tough with a novella, I get that, but it's hard when you like both men in the story and you can only pick one. Especially when you don't like the heroine all that much.
I enjoyed this, and I love EJ's writing style, but the heroine came off as ditzy rather than cute. I also actually liked the rival Felton, and I thought he was the hero at first, so that might have skewed my view on him. Tobias was a great hero...with his head up his ass. He never quite understood til it was too late that he'd compromised Genevieve (not just her virtue) but he'd taken away her choice. He did eventually realize it, but I didn't like how no one quite understood what the other felt.
Tobias and Genevieve almost eloped when they were young-her father caught them, before they hit Scotland, but they'd already consummated the, er, elopement. Twice ;P
But her father sent him away, and married Genevieve off to an old man and lied to her about Tobias. So 7 years later Tobias finds out she's a widow and comes back for her. It's very romantic.
Her best friend Carola was my favorite character:
"...Tobias Darby came all the way back from India, just to ask you to marry him! He's waited for you all these years, and now finally you're free," she sighed. "My husband would have just found a trout stream and drowned his sorrows."
the misunderstandings between them could have been dealt with sooner. It's tough with a novella, I get that, but it's hard when you like both men in the story and you can only pick one. Especially when you don't like the heroine all that much.
October 12, 2023
First reading: I really got into it. 4☆
Second reading: read this again 10 years after the first reading. I still enjoyed reading it again. 4☆
Second reading: read this again 10 years after the first reading. I still enjoyed reading it again. 4☆
July 19, 2012
Not too bad for a freebie from the kindle store. I would call this a short story . I think novellas are supposed to be longer.
Genevieve eloped with Tobias. They consummate the "marriage " in the carriage. Before they can be legally wed, Genevieve 's father intercepts them. He promptly married her off to a miserly old man. When she is widowed, her husband leaves a strange demand in his will, forcing her to choose between two men he has decided she should marry. If she marries someone else, she will not inherit. All appears to be settled, until Tobias shows up.
Not great, but enjoyable enough. Could be a good way to pass your break or lunch time.
Genevieve eloped with Tobias. They consummate the "marriage " in the carriage. Before they can be legally wed, Genevieve 's father intercepts them. He promptly married her off to a miserly old man. When she is widowed, her husband leaves a strange demand in his will, forcing her to choose between two men he has decided she should marry. If she marries someone else, she will not inherit. All appears to be settled, until Tobias shows up.
Not great, but enjoyable enough. Could be a good way to pass your break or lunch time.
October 7, 2019
“A Fool Again” is a novella that I thought was a stand-alone story. I’d swear I checked multiple times to see if it was part of any of Eloisa James’s series and never found a connection, but after reading it, I noticed that Amazon and GoodReads now have it marked as part of her Duchess in Love series. It seems that Tobias, the hero of this novella, is a brother to Simon, the hero of Fool for Love, the second book of the series. In any case, I felt that “A Fool Again” stood pretty well on its own, and other than a mention of Simon, there doesn’t appear to be any other connection to the series.
This story is about Tobias, who was a bit of a hellion in his youth, and Genevieve, who walks a little on the wild side, too. The pair grew up as neighbors but didn’t really get to know each other until a party when she was eighteen. After spending a few hours together, they impulsively decided to elope and made a run for Gretna Green, only to be chased down by her father. However, along the way, they succumbed to passion, leaving Genevieve compromised. Her father quickly married her off to a much older man, while Tobias broke her heart by disappearing to India. Seven years later, Genevieve finds herself a young widow, but her miserly husband has only left her a small stipend to live on unless she marries one of his business partners after two years of enforced mourning. Lucius, one of the two partners is a younger man to whom she’s attracted, so over the next year, she starts getting to know him, and just as she’s convinced she’s fallen in love with him and intends to marry him, Tobias returns, pulling out all the stops to woo her back.
Tobias is a sweet, seductive man who’s just my type. He’ll do anything to get Genevieve back. He knows exactly what he wants and isn’t inclined to take no for an answer this time around. I love a man in pursuit who unapologetically wears his heart on his sleeve for the woman he loves and that’s precisely the type of man Tobias is. Genevieve is a passionate woman who deep down knows there’s something missing from her relationship with Lucius, but after the disaster of being branded a loose woman following her unsuccessful elopement with Tobias, she’s determined to be a more proper lady. However, it doesn’t take long for her to succumb to her feelings for Tobias once he’s in her life again. I thought these two were perfect for each other. They both have passionate natures and keep each other on their toes. It’s clear that their chemistry is off the charts hot and in their heart of hearts, neither one truly wants anyone else but the other. “A Fool Again” was a sweet, lighthearted, delightful tale that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but at the same time manages to be emotional and sexy. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella. It was my first read by Eloisa James, but most definitely won’t be my last. I very much look forward to reading the other books in the Duchess in Love series and checking out her other work as well. “A Fool Again” was originally published in the anthology, The One That Got Away, but was later reprinted as a stand-alone ebook.
This story is about Tobias, who was a bit of a hellion in his youth, and Genevieve, who walks a little on the wild side, too. The pair grew up as neighbors but didn’t really get to know each other until a party when she was eighteen. After spending a few hours together, they impulsively decided to elope and made a run for Gretna Green, only to be chased down by her father. However, along the way, they succumbed to passion, leaving Genevieve compromised. Her father quickly married her off to a much older man, while Tobias broke her heart by disappearing to India. Seven years later, Genevieve finds herself a young widow, but her miserly husband has only left her a small stipend to live on unless she marries one of his business partners after two years of enforced mourning. Lucius, one of the two partners is a younger man to whom she’s attracted, so over the next year, she starts getting to know him, and just as she’s convinced she’s fallen in love with him and intends to marry him, Tobias returns, pulling out all the stops to woo her back.
Tobias is a sweet, seductive man who’s just my type. He’ll do anything to get Genevieve back. He knows exactly what he wants and isn’t inclined to take no for an answer this time around. I love a man in pursuit who unapologetically wears his heart on his sleeve for the woman he loves and that’s precisely the type of man Tobias is. Genevieve is a passionate woman who deep down knows there’s something missing from her relationship with Lucius, but after the disaster of being branded a loose woman following her unsuccessful elopement with Tobias, she’s determined to be a more proper lady. However, it doesn’t take long for her to succumb to her feelings for Tobias once he’s in her life again. I thought these two were perfect for each other. They both have passionate natures and keep each other on their toes. It’s clear that their chemistry is off the charts hot and in their heart of hearts, neither one truly wants anyone else but the other. “A Fool Again” was a sweet, lighthearted, delightful tale that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but at the same time manages to be emotional and sexy. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella. It was my first read by Eloisa James, but most definitely won’t be my last. I very much look forward to reading the other books in the Duchess in Love series and checking out her other work as well. “A Fool Again” was originally published in the anthology, The One That Got Away, but was later reprinted as a stand-alone ebook.
May 24, 2019
I dunno, guys. He really seemed just to really have the hots for her, more than that he loved her for her. That's my problem with "love at first sight" stories.
January 4, 2013
This was a free book for Nook that I grabbed to try Eloisa James’ style.
Lady Genevieve Mulcaster, a widow, is in a precarious position, orchestrated by her deceased husband. Per his will, she is to remain in mourning for two years, and then, if she marries one of his two business partners, she will inherit his estate. Otherwise, the estate will go to the church, with a small amount coming to Genevieve.
Having been forced to marry an elderly man, by her father who caught her running off to Gretna Green to marry a young man she just met, Genevieve assumes picking one of these two business partners can’t be much worse. Besides, she’s rather intrigued by one of them she hopes to marry. A quiet and possibly disreputable man, Lucius Felton, quickens her heart.
That is, until Tobias Darby shows up to claim his stolen bride from years ago, once he realizes she’s widowed and free to marry again. It’s not as easy as he thinks because Genevieve is sure she’s in love with Lucius. But, Tobias isn’t about to lose her again without a fight.
Genevieve is quirky and Lucius and Tobias are both very determined gentlemen and maybe, not necessarily gentlemen when it comes to love.
A very short story that moves quickly but it’s a great way to try a “new to you” author. It’s a cute novella that made me laugh, so I’ll definitely try more by Eloisa James.
Lady Genevieve Mulcaster, a widow, is in a precarious position, orchestrated by her deceased husband. Per his will, she is to remain in mourning for two years, and then, if she marries one of his two business partners, she will inherit his estate. Otherwise, the estate will go to the church, with a small amount coming to Genevieve.
Having been forced to marry an elderly man, by her father who caught her running off to Gretna Green to marry a young man she just met, Genevieve assumes picking one of these two business partners can’t be much worse. Besides, she’s rather intrigued by one of them she hopes to marry. A quiet and possibly disreputable man, Lucius Felton, quickens her heart.
That is, until Tobias Darby shows up to claim his stolen bride from years ago, once he realizes she’s widowed and free to marry again. It’s not as easy as he thinks because Genevieve is sure she’s in love with Lucius. But, Tobias isn’t about to lose her again without a fight.
Genevieve is quirky and Lucius and Tobias are both very determined gentlemen and maybe, not necessarily gentlemen when it comes to love.
A very short story that moves quickly but it’s a great way to try a “new to you” author. It’s a cute novella that made me laugh, so I’ll definitely try more by Eloisa James.
June 15, 2011
Short fluffy brain candy e-book that I read while sitting in the Central Jury Room, waiting and well, waiting. It's a very light Regency historical romance about Genevieve, who at a young age is separated from her true love. In the ensuing years, she's married off to a wealthy old man who later passes away and will only leave his fortune to her if she marries one of his business associates. Genevieve is intrigued by Felton, the younger of the associates, but can't quite get his attention. In the meantime, her former love, Tobias, re-enters her life, even though she never expected to see him again, completely confusing and complicating matters.
This was a quick, fun read. I enjoyed the intricate details of Genevieve's dresses--the author must really understand couture of the early 1800's. I wanted to shake the heroine several times for being so wishy-washy. And the climax of the storyline did not have a significant enough buildup--it was like the author had a limited number of words and had used most of them up by the time she got to the end of the novel, and so had to tie things up quickly. That was kind of dissatisfying and the conflicts and resolution could have been so much better.
This was a quick, fun read. I enjoyed the intricate details of Genevieve's dresses--the author must really understand couture of the early 1800's. I wanted to shake the heroine several times for being so wishy-washy. And the climax of the storyline did not have a significant enough buildup--it was like the author had a limited number of words and had used most of them up by the time she got to the end of the novel, and so had to tie things up quickly. That was kind of dissatisfying and the conflicts and resolution could have been so much better.
March 17, 2016
As far as "the one that got away" stories go, this one was just OK.
The heroine, Genevieve, was flighty and sometimes annoying. She claims to be in love with Felton - and even goes so far to engage his affections as to attack him in a carriage and then later demand he kiss her in front of the entire ton. That very same night she makes-out with Tobias - twice. She was an unlikable character.
We're thrown off because Felton is introduced at the beginning of the story and it's assumed he'll be the hero. There are a few sly remarks thrown in to indicate otherwise (like when her friends call his smile snake-like). Tobias, the real hero, doesn't make an appearance until the third chapter (there are only 8 chapters in this book). As characters go, I liked both Felton and Tobias, even though Felton didn't put up much of a fight for a woman he'd poured over a year of energy into.
The heroine, Genevieve, was flighty and sometimes annoying. She claims to be in love with Felton - and even goes so far to engage his affections as to attack him in a carriage and then later demand he kiss her in front of the entire ton. That very same night she makes-out with Tobias - twice. She was an unlikable character.
We're thrown off because Felton is introduced at the beginning of the story and it's assumed he'll be the hero. There are a few sly remarks thrown in to indicate otherwise (like when her friends call his smile snake-like). Tobias, the real hero, doesn't make an appearance until the third chapter (there are only 8 chapters in this book). As characters go, I liked both Felton and Tobias, even though Felton didn't put up much of a fight for a woman he'd poured over a year of energy into.
November 15, 2015
I did enjoy this little novella to an extent. It was the first time I read anything by Eloisa James, but it has made me want to check out some of her other novels.
The storyline was cute... the boy from her past comes back to her, except... she insists that she no longer has feelings for him (but that's a big joke) and that she'd rather marry this man that didn't seem to care for her in the least bit. Yeah. That makes complete sense. She spends the whole story behaving like this silly little girl and became quite unlikable.
In the end everything was happily ever after... as it always is in silly romance novels. But that's what makes them great isn't it? :)
The storyline was cute... the boy from her past comes back to her, except... she insists that she no longer has feelings for him (but that's a big joke) and that she'd rather marry this man that didn't seem to care for her in the least bit. Yeah. That makes complete sense. She spends the whole story behaving like this silly little girl and became quite unlikable.
In the end everything was happily ever after... as it always is in silly romance novels. But that's what makes them great isn't it? :)
May 2, 2011
I just got a Kindle and have been reading anything I can get my hands on from the free kindle store. I had high hopes for this one. It was set in a time period and location that I love and couldn't wait to dive in. However, I was disappointed to see that this was just a trashy novel, which was heavy on the trash, short on the novel. I finished it, trying to give it a chance and paging through the predictable garbage looking for the story, but never really found much of one. Not great unless that is the type of book you are interested in. This was my first Eloisa James book and I won't be looking for another one.
May 18, 2011
Kobo free download 5/2/11
2.5 stars
This was a sweet short story about a young widow who must marry her husband's business partner in order to get her inheritance. I didn't really understand the attraction between Mr. Felton and Genvieve, it seemed rather contrived and proper. Even Felton's proposal seemed like a business transaction. Things look up for Genvieve when her first love returns from India. I liked Tobias' character and the way he is described makes him seem to be the more attractive choice.
Favorite quote:
2.5 stars
This was a sweet short story about a young widow who must marry her husband's business partner in order to get her inheritance. I didn't really understand the attraction between Mr. Felton and Genvieve, it seemed rather contrived and proper. Even Felton's proposal seemed like a business transaction. Things look up for Genvieve when her first love returns from India. I liked Tobias' character and the way he is described makes him seem to be the more attractive choice.
Favorite quote:
"Truly Carola, you make everything sound like a novel!"
"I love novels! If this were a novel, Felton and Darby would duel to the death."
August 20, 2013
A sweet novella about Tobias Darby, Devil spawn, and Lady Genevieve Mulcaster, young widow and once-upon-a-time ruined by the aforementioned Devil spawn when their elopement failed.
Genevieve is instructed by her late husband's will to marry one of his partners in order to gain access to her inheritance, and she's more than happy to comply since she has a crush on one of them, Lucius Felton, elegant gentleman and ruthless businessman.
Her plans are derailed when Tobias unexpectedly returns from India and seems determined to finally marry her.
Genevieve is instructed by her late husband's will to marry one of his partners in order to gain access to her inheritance, and she's more than happy to comply since she has a crush on one of them, Lucius Felton, elegant gentleman and ruthless businessman.
Her plans are derailed when Tobias unexpectedly returns from India and seems determined to finally marry her.
April 26, 2011
This is another free Nook download.
I enjoyed parts of this, but I never really understood why the heroine was so in love with her husband's business partner. Therefore I didn't understand the rest of her actions. Especially her stubborn refusal to see the good in the hero.
For a short story (novella length) I thought the romance was well done. I really liked the hero and how quick he was willing to cop to his feelings.
Overall not a bad read.
I enjoyed parts of this, but I never really understood why the heroine was so in love with her husband's business partner. Therefore I didn't understand the rest of her actions. Especially her stubborn refusal to see the good in the hero.
For a short story (novella length) I thought the romance was well done. I really liked the hero and how quick he was willing to cop to his feelings.
Overall not a bad read.
May 5, 2011
5*
I only wish that it was longer...
I only wish that it was longer...
November 14, 2016
Fun, but I believe I would have enjoyed it more if I'd read this before Much Ado About Essex. WHOOPS. note to self: check publication order of things.
July 23, 2020
Ugh. Started promisingly, with the main character finally rid of an odious and outrageously cheap husband. (It's your funeral, dear; go all out with the refreshments, instead of requesting some wine and two light seedcakes!) And I was in the mood for an arranged-marriage style romance, with Mr. Odious having selected two candidates for his widow to marry after a suitable period of mourning; but then we jumped ahead a year, and one of the candidates became unviable offstage, and The One Who Got Away showed up, and everything dissolved into a tedious will-she-or-won't-she.
It would have been a better read if The One Who Got Away had been poor and interesting (instead of a jerk). It would have been a better read if the man her husband had selected had been actually interested in her. It would have been a better read if the widow had been any good at all at weaving a seductive spell around the man she was panting to marry. It would have been a better read if any of the characters weren't boring and undeveloped. Instead, we have a main character with no charisma or brains or spirit, and two supposed love interests who don't seem to care about her at all. (The One Who Got Away tries to [re]seduce her in a carriage the first time they meet after years apart, which hints that he sees her as nothing more than someone to hook up with, rather than someone whose reputation he should be protecting--this is James' idea of romance?)
This just-- No. If this is what James writes, her books aren't for me.
It would have been a better read if The One Who Got Away had been poor and interesting (instead of a jerk). It would have been a better read if the man her husband had selected had been actually interested in her. It would have been a better read if the widow had been any good at all at weaving a seductive spell around the man she was panting to marry. It would have been a better read if any of the characters weren't boring and undeveloped. Instead, we have a main character with no charisma or brains or spirit, and two supposed love interests who don't seem to care about her at all. (The One Who Got Away tries to [re]seduce her in a carriage the first time they meet after years apart, which hints that he sees her as nothing more than someone to hook up with, rather than someone whose reputation he should be protecting--this is James' idea of romance?)
This just-- No. If this is what James writes, her books aren't for me.
February 27, 2024
Ms. James has written one of my favorite romances of all time (A Duke of her Own) but also some clunkers like the Wilde series and this novella falls somewhere between. The dash to Gretna Green by two drunk teens who barely know each other yet "know" each other in the getaway coach in the biblical sense - twice - gets the story off on the wrong foot. Who can admire two main characters with such bad judgment?
After being intercepted by the would-be bride's father, she's married off to a man old enough to be her grandfather and does 7 years penance until widowed while her fellow eloper ran off to India where he made his fortune. Genevieve comes across as a very forward woman for the time, next developing lascivious feelings for her husband's much younger partner Felton, basically talking him into an engagement yet again caving sexually to her first paramour Tobias when he returns. She has not been pining for him during their 7 years apart though he stayed in love with her. She has been plotting how to reel in Felton. In toto, she comes across as somewhat slutty, not a good look for a romance heroine.
One of the stars is for the author not making the "other man" a cardboard villain but rather decent, actually mysterious and more complex than Tobias who comes across as a big puppy dog, still wild as he was in his youth. Felton would have been the more interesting choice of husband. One can hope he went on to pair up with a more elegant woman than the rather ditzy roundheels Genevieve.
After being intercepted by the would-be bride's father, she's married off to a man old enough to be her grandfather and does 7 years penance until widowed while her fellow eloper ran off to India where he made his fortune. Genevieve comes across as a very forward woman for the time, next developing lascivious feelings for her husband's much younger partner Felton, basically talking him into an engagement yet again caving sexually to her first paramour Tobias when he returns. She has not been pining for him during their 7 years apart though he stayed in love with her. She has been plotting how to reel in Felton. In toto, she comes across as somewhat slutty, not a good look for a romance heroine.
One of the stars is for the author not making the "other man" a cardboard villain but rather decent, actually mysterious and more complex than Tobias who comes across as a big puppy dog, still wild as he was in his youth. Felton would have been the more interesting choice of husband. One can hope he went on to pair up with a more elegant woman than the rather ditzy roundheels Genevieve.
May 30, 2017
24 year old widowed Genevieve is mandated by her elderly, miserly husband's will to mourn for 2 years, then marry one of his two business partners. If she marries someone else, or no one at all, she loses everything.
At the age of 18, reckless,drunk Genevieve attempted to elope to Gretna Green with Tobias Darby, the second son of an impoverished neighbor. They anticipate the marriage bed, but are caught on the road to Scotland.
Tobias comes back to town after many years abroad and he doesn't plan on letting Genevieve go.
70 page eBook, but lacked story. The past of both characters is discussed, but thats all. Two important questions were not answered: how did Tobias make his fortune? (Since the discussion of money seems to be a topic in the story)
and, what happened with Erasmus' mandates in the will?
Although, the will itself was pretty straightforward, It is interesting that Tobias never asks why Genevieve is so insistent on marrying Lucius Fenton.
As Tobias goes out of his way to discredit Lucius' feelings, he should of asked 'why.'
This novella could have been a solid addition to the series, but instead fell short.
2 stars for the faire and the piglet (reminded me of the dog from that Guy Ritchie movie)
At the age of 18, reckless,drunk Genevieve attempted to elope to Gretna Green with Tobias Darby, the second son of an impoverished neighbor. They anticipate the marriage bed, but are caught on the road to Scotland.
Tobias comes back to town after many years abroad and he doesn't plan on letting Genevieve go.
70 page eBook, but lacked story. The past of both characters is discussed, but thats all. Two important questions were not answered: how did Tobias make his fortune? (Since the discussion of money seems to be a topic in the story)
and, what happened with Erasmus' mandates in the will?
Although, the will itself was pretty straightforward, It is interesting that Tobias never asks why Genevieve is so insistent on marrying Lucius Fenton.
As Tobias goes out of his way to discredit Lucius' feelings, he should of asked 'why.'
This novella could have been a solid addition to the series, but instead fell short.
2 stars for the faire and the piglet (reminded me of the dog from that Guy Ritchie movie)
May 13, 2025
This novella opens with Lady Genevieve a new widow. Her husband Erasmaus has died recently and the first scene is her entering the church for the funeral. She is aware that her husband was an old man, and was not very interested in romance. He had married her although she had broken the rules of the ton in England before her father caught her and yanked her away from the man she thought she loved at the time. Due to the will and the part about her, she is determined to marry one of her late husbands friends.
However, about a year after she goes into mourning, her "first love" shows back up. He went to India and make his fortune and now wants to start back up. She is determined that she is going to marriy the man she had already decided to marry...or at least try to because her father explained to her his side of the events when she tried to elope.
The two get together and after discussions take place, they each, both her and Tobias Darby find new information about what actually went on seven years ago and things weren't the way either of them thought it was. It changes everything.
I recommend this novella as a fairly enjoyable romance and a look at regency era England and the life of the "ton".
However, about a year after she goes into mourning, her "first love" shows back up. He went to India and make his fortune and now wants to start back up. She is determined that she is going to marriy the man she had already decided to marry...or at least try to because her father explained to her his side of the events when she tried to elope.
The two get together and after discussions take place, they each, both her and Tobias Darby find new information about what actually went on seven years ago and things weren't the way either of them thought it was. It changes everything.
I recommend this novella as a fairly enjoyable romance and a look at regency era England and the life of the "ton".
October 21, 2021
A quick read from a favorite author. I didn't realize it was a reprint from an anthology, but knowing that it was a novella, I didn't expect too much character development or backstory, but this one seems to have even less than usual.
The major problem stemmed from the fact that all the viewpoints of the main characters was from the heroine's (lustful) POV. Other than Neville's drooling establishing that Genevieve is a ton hottie, we're always looking at the males via Genevieve's (disjointed, and did I mention, lustful) thoughts. She doesn't ever seem to connect with them as people, just hormone inducers.
I think we're supposed to assume that Felton is an attractive cold fish that won't appreciate her, so by default that makes Tobias the better choice, since they had a whole 3 hours of teenage ogling, before they jumped into a few hours in a steamy coach. Luckily, her old decrepit hubbie couldn't get it up at the prospect of a hot woman, just his miserly ways turned him on. So in spite of her lustful thoughts, she gets to remain pure by having only slept with one man.
An odd story, by any stretch.
The major problem stemmed from the fact that all the viewpoints of the main characters was from the heroine's (lustful) POV. Other than Neville's drooling establishing that Genevieve is a ton hottie, we're always looking at the males via Genevieve's (disjointed, and did I mention, lustful) thoughts. She doesn't ever seem to connect with them as people, just hormone inducers.
I think we're supposed to assume that Felton is an attractive cold fish that won't appreciate her, so by default that makes Tobias the better choice, since they had a whole 3 hours of teenage ogling, before they jumped into a few hours in a steamy coach. Luckily, her old decrepit hubbie couldn't get it up at the prospect of a hot woman, just his miserly ways turned him on. So in spite of her lustful thoughts, she gets to remain pure by having only slept with one man.
An odd story, by any stretch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2018
Ruined *again*! At a horribly boring party, Genevieve drinks too much champagne and elopes with Tobias, the oh-so-charming boy next door. They are caught before they reach Gretna Greene, but not before she is deflowered in the carriage. Her father marries her off to the very wealth, and very old Lord Mulcaster. Tobias flees to India.
Seven years later, Genevieve is a widow, engaged to her late husband's very attractive business partner, when Tobias returns from India - wealthy, all grown up, and ready to start over with Genevieve.
Seven years later, Genevieve is a widow, engaged to her late husband's very attractive business partner, when Tobias returns from India - wealthy, all grown up, and ready to start over with Genevieve.
February 28, 2021
A quick, fun read
I admire how Ms James manages to create in a novella such full characters. Genevieve and Tobias vibrate with color and action especially in contrast to the other cast of characters. It is impossible not to root for their HEA even though it comes at a bit of a cost.
I admire how Ms James manages to create in a novella such full characters. Genevieve and Tobias vibrate with color and action especially in contrast to the other cast of characters. It is impossible not to root for their HEA even though it comes at a bit of a cost.
January 6, 2018
A short and lovely book. I like the main couple, the fact they were separated but never forgot each other. I was quite curious about Lucian as well, as he seems like a great character (that I hope is explored in the next books).
June 2, 2018
Light and fun
It's hard to create something realistic in such a short novel. The scene is full but the action too quick. And it is hard to figure out the character of Felton. I'd like to know more about him.
It's hard to create something realistic in such a short novel. The scene is full but the action too quick. And it is hard to figure out the character of Felton. I'd like to know more about him.
January 8, 2021
A sweet read
A sweet read which is about young love lost and nearly lost again to misunderstanding. This novella is part of the Duchess in love series but it can be read on it's own.
A sweet read which is about young love lost and nearly lost again to misunderstanding. This novella is part of the Duchess in love series but it can be read on it's own.
December 26, 2021
A brief escape to fantasy England where you are swept away by a man who has been in absencia for 6 years, frolicking and making his riches in the exotic land of India. How sweet for Genevieve to have her Tobias back, but how I wish Tobias has fought for her more.
March 7, 2024
Novella with great characters and a good story contain in eight chapters. Tobias and Genevieve are wonderful together . You also get some insight into Felton who is the male lead in Much Ado About you book.
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