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Bedwyn Saga #1
Slightly Married
Meet the Bedwyns…six brothers and sisters--men and women of passion and privilege, daring and sensuality…Enter their dazzling world of high society and breathtaking seduction…where each will seek love, fight temptation, and court scandal…and where Aidan Bedwyn, the marriage-shy second son, discovers that matrimony may be the most seductive act of all.…
Like all the Bedwyn men, Aidan has a reputation for cool arrogance. But this proud nobleman also possesses a loyal, passionate heart--and it is this fierce loyalty that has brought Colonel Lord Aidan to Ringwood Manor to honor a dying soldier's request. Having promised to comfort and protect the man's sister, Aidan never expected to find a headstrong, fiercely independent woman who wants no part of his protection…nor did he expect the feelings this beguiling creature would ignite in his guarded heart. And when a relative threatens to turn Eve out of her home, Aidan gallantly makes her an offer she can't refuse: marry him…if only to save her home. And now, as all of London breathlessly awaits the transformation of the new Lady Aidan Bedwyn, the strangest thing happens: With one touch, one searing embrace, Aidan and Eve's “business arrangement” is about to be transformed…into something slightly surprising...
Like all the Bedwyn men, Aidan has a reputation for cool arrogance. But this proud nobleman also possesses a loyal, passionate heart--and it is this fierce loyalty that has brought Colonel Lord Aidan to Ringwood Manor to honor a dying soldier's request. Having promised to comfort and protect the man's sister, Aidan never expected to find a headstrong, fiercely independent woman who wants no part of his protection…nor did he expect the feelings this beguiling creature would ignite in his guarded heart. And when a relative threatens to turn Eve out of her home, Aidan gallantly makes her an offer she can't refuse: marry him…if only to save her home. And now, as all of London breathlessly awaits the transformation of the new Lady Aidan Bedwyn, the strangest thing happens: With one touch, one searing embrace, Aidan and Eve's “business arrangement” is about to be transformed…into something slightly surprising...
344 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2003
1163 people are currently reading
11700 people want to read
About the author
Mary Balogh
200 books6,362 followersMary Jenkins was born in 1944 in Swansea, Wales, UK. After graduating from university, moved to Saskatchewan, Canada, to teach high school English, on a two-year teaching contract in 1967. She married her Canadian husband, Robert Balogh, and had three children, Jacqueline, Christopher and Sian. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, music and knitting. She also enjoys watching tennis and curling.
Mary Balogh started writing in the evenings as a hobby. Her first book, a Regency love story, was published in 1985 as A Masked Deception under her married name. In 1988, she retired from teaching after 20 years to pursue her dream to write full-time. She has written more than seventy novels and almost thirty novellas since then, including the New York Times bestselling 'Slightly' sextet and 'Simply' quartet. She has won numerous awards, including Bestselling Historical of the Year from the Borders Group, and her novel Simply Magic was a finalist in the Quill Awards. She has won seven Waldenbooks Awards and two B. Dalton Awards for her bestselling novels, as well as a Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mary Balogh started writing in the evenings as a hobby. Her first book, a Regency love story, was published in 1985 as A Masked Deception under her married name. In 1988, she retired from teaching after 20 years to pursue her dream to write full-time. She has written more than seventy novels and almost thirty novellas since then, including the New York Times bestselling 'Slightly' sextet and 'Simply' quartet. She has won numerous awards, including Bestselling Historical of the Year from the Borders Group, and her novel Simply Magic was a finalist in the Quill Awards. She has won seven Waldenbooks Awards and two B. Dalton Awards for her bestselling novels, as well as a Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,712 reviews
January 8, 2012
I've yet to find a book by Ms. Balogh that I didn't love. Her writing always sucks me into the story right from the start, with slightly (no pun intended) imperfect characters that I can't help but feel strongly about. Taking this book as an example, my eyes were already misty when I finished reading the 1st Chapter, and I had just met the heroine Eve...
Slightly Married is a beautifully slow paced story, completely focused on Aidan's and Eve's emotions and the loving relationship that grows between them despite their "best intentions". Aidan starts off being rather cold, reserved and grim, but as he slowly falls in love with Eve, his demeanor starts to change and he opens himself up to the possibility of a life of happiness with her - something that he's never dreamed of when he proposed a marriage of convenience to her. Eve's a rich coal miner's daughter, sweet but strong, and the least likely candidate for marrying one of the aristocratic Bedwyn brothers, but Aidan's remarkable sense of honor and duty is stronger than this "mere" social inconvenience. He's promised her dying brother to protect her, no matter what!, and if marrying her is the only protection Aidan can offer Eve, so be it. It's not supposed to be a real marriage at all, but life has a way of getting in the way of best laid plans...
Aidan was a difficult hero to love at first, due to his stiffness - please, keep your minds out of the gutter, LOL - and coldness, but once his facade started cracking up, I fell for him as strongly as Eve did. And when he finally smiled at her for the 1st time... When he kept finding excuses to delay his departure... When he took her swimming in the river... *sighs*
On the other hand, Eve was extremely easy to love from the start. For a moment, I was afraid she was going to cave under the pressure of Aidan's older brother, the mighty Duke of Bewcastle, but she stood her ground not only once but twice. She was willing to submit to Bewcastle's demands to a point in order to help Aidan, but she was no pushover.
If I had one "problem" with this book was, there was something "off" with the love scenes. I don't know if I've been reading too much erotica/romantica lately, but I didn't feel much passion in Aidan and Eve's lovemaking. There was hardly any foreplay - the 1st time, they didn't even bother to undress - and Aidan came across as the ultimate wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am guy. The fact that Eve always reached the Big-O was only because they were in Romancelandia. Anyway, that didn't really bother me because Ms. Balogh had me around her little finger all through the story and, quite frankly, I wouldn't have minded if there were no love scenes at all. Yes, that's how much I love her writing!
Note: I feel like the Bedwyns deserve a "special" comment from me. I didn't like any of the Bedwyn siblings when I met them in A Summer to Remember, and I admit that I only read Slightly Married because Aidan wasn't in that book and therefore was "saved" from my wrath, LOL. Now that I've read this book, I don't dislike them anymore - except Freyja, who I still want to kill slowly and painfully - and I'm interested in reading the next books in this series.
Slightly Married is a beautifully slow paced story, completely focused on Aidan's and Eve's emotions and the loving relationship that grows between them despite their "best intentions". Aidan starts off being rather cold, reserved and grim, but as he slowly falls in love with Eve, his demeanor starts to change and he opens himself up to the possibility of a life of happiness with her - something that he's never dreamed of when he proposed a marriage of convenience to her. Eve's a rich coal miner's daughter, sweet but strong, and the least likely candidate for marrying one of the aristocratic Bedwyn brothers, but Aidan's remarkable sense of honor and duty is stronger than this "mere" social inconvenience. He's promised her dying brother to protect her, no matter what!, and if marrying her is the only protection Aidan can offer Eve, so be it. It's not supposed to be a real marriage at all, but life has a way of getting in the way of best laid plans...
Aidan was a difficult hero to love at first, due to his stiffness - please, keep your minds out of the gutter, LOL - and coldness, but once his facade started cracking up, I fell for him as strongly as Eve did. And when he finally smiled at her for the 1st time... When he kept finding excuses to delay his departure... When he took her swimming in the river... *sighs*
On the other hand, Eve was extremely easy to love from the start. For a moment, I was afraid she was going to cave under the pressure of Aidan's older brother, the mighty Duke of Bewcastle, but she stood her ground not only once but twice. She was willing to submit to Bewcastle's demands to a point in order to help Aidan, but she was no pushover.
If I had one "problem" with this book was, there was something "off" with the love scenes. I don't know if I've been reading too much erotica/romantica lately, but I didn't feel much passion in Aidan and Eve's lovemaking. There was hardly any foreplay - the 1st time, they didn't even bother to undress - and Aidan came across as the ultimate wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am guy. The fact that Eve always reached the Big-O was only because they were in Romancelandia. Anyway, that didn't really bother me because Ms. Balogh had me around her little finger all through the story and, quite frankly, I wouldn't have minded if there were no love scenes at all. Yes, that's how much I love her writing!
Note: I feel like the Bedwyns deserve a "special" comment from me. I didn't like any of the Bedwyn siblings when I met them in A Summer to Remember, and I admit that I only read Slightly Married because Aidan wasn't in that book and therefore was "saved" from my wrath, LOL. Now that I've read this book, I don't dislike them anymore - except Freyja, who I still want to kill slowly and painfully - and I'm interested in reading the next books in this series.
September 24, 2015
While a serviceable romance, I had two problems with the book that greatly hindered my enjoyment. This is an earlier Balogh than the Survivors Club and, indeed, I recognize one of the characters in this one from there so there's some crossover, it appears.
My biggest annoyance was that you could cut half the novel if either character had bothered to actually talk with the other. I kind of hate that, and find it both unattractive in the characters and manipulative by the author. It's a shame because the situation is complex and dynamic so I can't help feeling like there could have been more to the romantic plot than two people to cowardly to speak to each other.
My slightly smaller annoyance was Eve. I like bold heroines, but Eve was so inconsistent that I had a hard time taking her seriously. In one moment, she'd engineer a great dramatic gesture in the face of the overbearing Bedwyns and then the next scene she'd be mooning over her weak cowardly ex. She'd go from great, noble fighting words about the orphans she loves and then go all emotionally irrational when confronted by the first setback and needing the big, strong man to step in and save the day. I'm sorry, but just no.
I wish that Aiden had been a better hero to give me someone to fall for, but he barely registered for me, personally. I mean, he's strong and honorable, but his emotional constipation is rather extreme and I'm not sure I buy his conversion in the end. Yeah, love and whatnot, but I can't help feeling like his eventual softening and kindness were rather pasted on and conveniently absent for most of the book just so that Eve wouldn't open up to him too early.
And yeah, I'm being kind of harsh considering I finished the book and never really felt like putting it down. It's a serviceable romance, as I said above. Interestingly, Balogh is a bit truer to the time in this than she is in the Survivors books. Eve's generosity is a bit extreme in a decidedly modern, progressive way and Aiden is a bit class-unconscious all things considered, but those are relatively minor, I think. It's still a fast read and the story is engaging, particularly when involving the rest of Aiden's family. It's a good opening for a longish series and I can't wait to check out some of the others.
A note about Steamy: This was in the middle of my range. There are three explicit sex scenes. They're not terribly long or drawn out and they are clearly in service to the emotional arc of the emotional relationship.
My biggest annoyance was that you could cut half the novel if either character had bothered to actually talk with the other. I kind of hate that, and find it both unattractive in the characters and manipulative by the author. It's a shame because the situation is complex and dynamic so I can't help feeling like there could have been more to the romantic plot than two people to cowardly to speak to each other.
My slightly smaller annoyance was Eve. I like bold heroines, but Eve was so inconsistent that I had a hard time taking her seriously. In one moment, she'd engineer a great dramatic gesture in the face of the overbearing Bedwyns and then the next scene she'd be mooning over her weak cowardly ex. She'd go from great, noble fighting words about the orphans she loves and then go all emotionally irrational when confronted by the first setback and needing the big, strong man to step in and save the day. I'm sorry, but just no.
I wish that Aiden had been a better hero to give me someone to fall for, but he barely registered for me, personally. I mean, he's strong and honorable, but his emotional constipation is rather extreme and I'm not sure I buy his conversion in the end. Yeah, love and whatnot, but I can't help feeling like his eventual softening and kindness were rather pasted on and conveniently absent for most of the book just so that Eve wouldn't open up to him too early.
And yeah, I'm being kind of harsh considering I finished the book and never really felt like putting it down. It's a serviceable romance, as I said above. Interestingly, Balogh is a bit truer to the time in this than she is in the Survivors books. Eve's generosity is a bit extreme in a decidedly modern, progressive way and Aiden is a bit class-unconscious all things considered, but those are relatively minor, I think. It's still a fast read and the story is engaging, particularly when involving the rest of Aiden's family. It's a good opening for a longish series and I can't wait to check out some of the others.
A note about Steamy: This was in the middle of my range. There are three explicit sex scenes. They're not terribly long or drawn out and they are clearly in service to the emotional arc of the emotional relationship.
May 4, 2025
A beautifully written marriage of convenience. Sloooooow to finally admit their feelings, but I didn’t mind the pace.
What sort of man could you love for a lifetime?" he asked her.
She was silent for a while. He guessed that she was considering her answer.
"A kind man," she said. "When we are young and foolish we do not realize how essential a component of love kindness is. It is perhaps the most important quality. And an honorable man. Always doing the right thing no matter what."
What sort of man could you love for a lifetime?" he asked her.
She was silent for a while. He guessed that she was considering her answer.
"A kind man," she said. "When we are young and foolish we do not realize how essential a component of love kindness is. It is perhaps the most important quality. And an honorable man. Always doing the right thing no matter what."
November 27, 2021
So this is a marriage of convenience book and I feel like this was just a realistic look at what that would actually be like. And it was pretty boring. Eve's brother dies and Aiden has promised him that he would take care of his sister. After visiting her with the news, Aiden learns that Even will lose the estate in about a week because her father's will stipulated that she got the estate for only a year after this death before it is given to the closest male heir. To prevent her devastation, Aiden proposes a marriage of convenience where they marry and then never see each other again as Aiden returns to the military. Aiden's family, though, is not happy to learn he's married and leaving his wife to never see her again. Eve is swept up into his family, must come into society, and falls in love with her husband. Like I said, this was pretty slow and just a nice story about a couple who falls for each other after agree to simply get married and never see each other again. I liked Aiden's family and how Eve was determined to support the people and children living with her at her estate. But the romance was just okay. It was definitely slow and they just started to develop feelings for each other. Nothing had me dying to read this book and I just wanted to finish so I could move on to something else.
April 11, 2024
More like Slightly Bored…
2,5 stars
This was a marriage of tremendous inconvenience for both parties and it was painful to read. Eve kept pining after some viscount who had never proposed and Aiden after some general’s daughter he was not able to propose to anymore. For most of the book they didn’t want to have anything to do with each other. At some point they fell in love and I have no idea how and why.
The writing was good but the story dragged and I even considered dnf at some point. It was frustrating how much they hated being married to each other and how much time it took them to warm up to each other. Then there was mutual pining and constant internal whining about how they would miss each other after their short time together was over 🙄 Just talk, people, please!
On top of that there was Freyja pining after Kit from A Summer to Remember and that was NOT the cameo I wanted…
Maybe I’m finally ready for a break from Mary Balogh.
————
I’m glad it’s over! It was the most unfortunate marriage of convenience. They were both inconvenienced by it for the better part of the book until they all of a sudden fell in love and lived happily ever after.
Full RTC
2,5 stars
This was a marriage of tremendous inconvenience for both parties and it was painful to read. Eve kept pining after some viscount who had never proposed and Aiden after some general’s daughter he was not able to propose to anymore. For most of the book they didn’t want to have anything to do with each other. At some point they fell in love and I have no idea how and why.
The writing was good but the story dragged and I even considered dnf at some point. It was frustrating how much they hated being married to each other and how much time it took them to warm up to each other. Then there was mutual pining and constant internal whining about how they would miss each other after their short time together was over 🙄 Just talk, people, please!
On top of that there was Freyja pining after Kit from A Summer to Remember and that was NOT the cameo I wanted…
Maybe I’m finally ready for a break from Mary Balogh.
————
I’m glad it’s over! It was the most unfortunate marriage of convenience. They were both inconvenienced by it for the better part of the book until they all of a sudden fell in love and lived happily ever after.
Full RTC
August 23, 2025
A lovely read. I love the strict, stern, dour Colonel Lord Aiden Bedwyn, who rarely smiles and has followed the path of duty for all of his adult life. And Eve with her 'bleeding heart' and her genuine kindness towards the lame ducks of the world.
Aiden marries Eve out of his strong sense of honour and duty, and his promise to a dying soldier to protect his sister. Neither of them expect to fall in love. It's done beautifully. Both of them had someone else they were expecting to marry, and this causes some jealousy and mild complications. But as time goes on, they both become more invested in their relationship till finally they acknowledge they have fallen in love with each other.
Aiden's relationship with Eve allows him to crack the emotionless shell he has kept around himself to do his job as a cavalry officer in the grim Napoleonic wars. He had expected to stay in the army, and eventually rise up even further, perhaps to a generalship. But falling in love makes him more human, and brings him back to a sense of his real self, a self he has not been in touch with since he was a very young man. It's nicely done. Balogh is very good at writing this kind of deep emotional growth in her characters.
Eve has some growing up to do, too, as she finally accepts that the (other) man she thought she was once in love with is someone she has grown beyond, and she moves into a real and fulfilling relationship with Aiden.
Having already read this series a couple of times, I know a bit about other members of the Bedwyn family, including the wonderful Wulfric, the duke and head of the family. This book gives some enjoyable glimpses of Wulf. He and Aiden were very close as boys, but have been cool and at odds for some time. We also see the example of Aiden's relationship with Eve, and Eve's own personal integrity and strength, make Wulf start to question his own life choices and the cool remote detachment with which he seems to conduct his life. I'm already looking forward to rereading Wulf's book, Slightly Dangerous, the final and IMO the best book.
This book is set just after Napoleon was defeated and there were huge victory celebrations in London. This is nicely done. The historical moments form a background to the story, but are lightly drawn and referenced.
Overall, it's a warm and satisfying read, and a wonderful introduction to the Bedwyns. One of Balogh's best series.
Aiden marries Eve out of his strong sense of honour and duty, and his promise to a dying soldier to protect his sister. Neither of them expect to fall in love. It's done beautifully. Both of them had someone else they were expecting to marry, and this causes some jealousy and mild complications. But as time goes on, they both become more invested in their relationship till finally they acknowledge they have fallen in love with each other.
Aiden's relationship with Eve allows him to crack the emotionless shell he has kept around himself to do his job as a cavalry officer in the grim Napoleonic wars. He had expected to stay in the army, and eventually rise up even further, perhaps to a generalship. But falling in love makes him more human, and brings him back to a sense of his real self, a self he has not been in touch with since he was a very young man. It's nicely done. Balogh is very good at writing this kind of deep emotional growth in her characters.
Eve has some growing up to do, too, as she finally accepts that the (other) man she thought she was once in love with is someone she has grown beyond, and she moves into a real and fulfilling relationship with Aiden.
Having already read this series a couple of times, I know a bit about other members of the Bedwyn family, including the wonderful Wulfric, the duke and head of the family. This book gives some enjoyable glimpses of Wulf. He and Aiden were very close as boys, but have been cool and at odds for some time. We also see the example of Aiden's relationship with Eve, and Eve's own personal integrity and strength, make Wulf start to question his own life choices and the cool remote detachment with which he seems to conduct his life. I'm already looking forward to rereading Wulf's book, Slightly Dangerous, the final and IMO the best book.
This book is set just after Napoleon was defeated and there were huge victory celebrations in London. This is nicely done. The historical moments form a background to the story, but are lightly drawn and referenced.
Overall, it's a warm and satisfying read, and a wonderful introduction to the Bedwyns. One of Balogh's best series.
May 3, 2015
4.5 beautiful stars!
Ms Balogh is a remarkably talented author who makes the writing come alive. The wonderful cast of characters will charm your pants off. You can see the bluebells and feel the water, the sun and the love.
I have a soft spot for the Pygmalion theme and this one did not disappoint! It is a marriage-of-convenience between two people from vastly different classes. Eve is a coal miner's daughter who has adopted a household of misfits. She is adorable, sparkling and can hold her ground. Aidan is the second son to the Duke of Bewcastle and the presumptive heir to the title. He is sweet but grim and a bit reserved to begin with.
The best way to describe it was that it was beautiful and fun! Even though it was a bit slow it was a delight all the way through. It was charming, heartwarming, funny and I finished it with a big goofy grin on my face! It is a wonderful start to what I am sure will be a wonderful series. I can't wait to read the next one!
Note: Even though this is the first book in the Bedwyn series I strongly recommend that you begin at least with the prequel A Summer to Remember.
Ms Balogh is a remarkably talented author who makes the writing come alive. The wonderful cast of characters will charm your pants off. You can see the bluebells and feel the water, the sun and the love.
I have a soft spot for the Pygmalion theme and this one did not disappoint! It is a marriage-of-convenience between two people from vastly different classes. Eve is a coal miner's daughter who has adopted a household of misfits. She is adorable, sparkling and can hold her ground. Aidan is the second son to the Duke of Bewcastle and the presumptive heir to the title. He is sweet but grim and a bit reserved to begin with.
The best way to describe it was that it was beautiful and fun! Even though it was a bit slow it was a delight all the way through. It was charming, heartwarming, funny and I finished it with a big goofy grin on my face! It is a wonderful start to what I am sure will be a wonderful series. I can't wait to read the next one!
Note: Even though this is the first book in the Bedwyn series I strongly recommend that you begin at least with the prequel A Summer to Remember.
July 2, 2020
The telling of a love story that starts with honoring a soldiers request to take care of his sister right before he dies. A haughty duke and a war hero. The time just flew by listening. I give it 4.5 stars
May 22, 2010
One thing you can say about Mary Balogh's writing: It consistently delivers that PBS/BBC period film feel! "Slightly Married" was no exception. I certainly envisioned the panoramic shots of England's town and country of the early 1800's without a problem, as well as the pacing of the story - flowing out like a nice, captivating BBC production. I think a lot of that feel can be attributed to her trademark "emotion-centered" romances that give a consistent viewpoint from both the hero and heroine of the story.
No secret that I'm a big fan of Balogh and usually pick up her books for a sure bet of both a comforting story and emotional engagement with the characters. I've had her Slightly series on the TBR for quite a long time, and finally got around to picking up the first book, "Slightly Married." For the 4 or 5 romance readers on the planet that still remain who've either not read the series or heard of the family, quickly -- it evolves around the aristocratic Bedwyn family consisting of 6 children, 4 boys and 2 girls, each book of the series focusing on each of their love stories.
"Slightly Married" is Aiden, the second son's story, featuring our heroine, "Eve," a Welsh coal miner's daughter whose father aspired to get as close to "gentry" as he possibly could. Alas, although her father died a landowner with a decent enough estate, they remained on the "fringe" of true gentry, and her father was never able to secure an aristocratic marriage offer for her hand.
Colonel Lord Aiden Bedwyn happens into Eve's life by way of coming upon one of his men dying on the battlefield - her brother, Captain Percy Morris. With his dying breath, Percy secures his colonel's promise that he will protect his sister, Eve, "No matter what!" Percy, having once saved Aiden's life in another skirmish, and Aiden naturally being a gentleman of the highest honor, he seeks out Eve to deliver the tragic news of her brother's death, and of course see how he might assist in any "protection" required, fulfilling his promise. He finds Eve on the brink of destitution, and quickly comes to understand the urgency of Percy's dying concerns. Eve and Percy's father bequeathed his estate to Eve for one year, to pass onto her brother Percy if she failed to marry a titled gentleman within that time period. Alas, circumstances didn't happen that Eve was able to fulfill the terms of the will, but she continued to have faith in Percy's remaining alive, and her continued welcome in her childhood home by her beloved brother should he inherit by default. With his death however, the estate became entailed to her truly evil cousin, whose given her collected "menagerie" of a family/household, until noon on the 1 year deadline to vacate the premises. Aiden finds her in this state upon his arrival and, one thing leading to another, offers her marriage in order to fulfill his bargain with her brother, "No matter what."
Balogh launches the hero and heroine into a series of unfolding events that allow each of them to get to know the other better, yet each remains under the premise that they maintain a marriage of convenience where the other participant would rather they part and never interfere in the other's life again. The story is filled with pangs of the heart, as the protagonists fall deeply, yet secretly from each other, in love with one another. Balogh writes one of the most tender and romantic culminating love scenes between the two that any true romantic "period film" lover could ask for. *deep sigh* The dialogue and setting of their encounter is truly emotional and captivating!
Any romance reader needing a lazy trip down a poignant and subtle path to two people discovering love where they never expected it . . . oh . . .and also being fresh out of BBC period productions to watch, will be satisfied with "Slightly Married." If that sounds about right for your particular taste, don't hesitate to pick this one up!
K.
[Note: No graphic love scenes, but not "closed bedroom door"; no violence; no graphic language.]/
No secret that I'm a big fan of Balogh and usually pick up her books for a sure bet of both a comforting story and emotional engagement with the characters. I've had her Slightly series on the TBR for quite a long time, and finally got around to picking up the first book, "Slightly Married." For the 4 or 5 romance readers on the planet that still remain who've either not read the series or heard of the family, quickly -- it evolves around the aristocratic Bedwyn family consisting of 6 children, 4 boys and 2 girls, each book of the series focusing on each of their love stories.
"Slightly Married" is Aiden, the second son's story, featuring our heroine, "Eve," a Welsh coal miner's daughter whose father aspired to get as close to "gentry" as he possibly could. Alas, although her father died a landowner with a decent enough estate, they remained on the "fringe" of true gentry, and her father was never able to secure an aristocratic marriage offer for her hand.
Colonel Lord Aiden Bedwyn happens into Eve's life by way of coming upon one of his men dying on the battlefield - her brother, Captain Percy Morris. With his dying breath, Percy secures his colonel's promise that he will protect his sister, Eve, "No matter what!" Percy, having once saved Aiden's life in another skirmish, and Aiden naturally being a gentleman of the highest honor, he seeks out Eve to deliver the tragic news of her brother's death, and of course see how he might assist in any "protection" required, fulfilling his promise. He finds Eve on the brink of destitution, and quickly comes to understand the urgency of Percy's dying concerns. Eve and Percy's father bequeathed his estate to Eve for one year, to pass onto her brother Percy if she failed to marry a titled gentleman within that time period. Alas, circumstances didn't happen that Eve was able to fulfill the terms of the will, but she continued to have faith in Percy's remaining alive, and her continued welcome in her childhood home by her beloved brother should he inherit by default. With his death however, the estate became entailed to her truly evil cousin, whose given her collected "menagerie" of a family/household, until noon on the 1 year deadline to vacate the premises. Aiden finds her in this state upon his arrival and, one thing leading to another, offers her marriage in order to fulfill his bargain with her brother, "No matter what."
Balogh launches the hero and heroine into a series of unfolding events that allow each of them to get to know the other better, yet each remains under the premise that they maintain a marriage of convenience where the other participant would rather they part and never interfere in the other's life again. The story is filled with pangs of the heart, as the protagonists fall deeply, yet secretly from each other, in love with one another. Balogh writes one of the most tender and romantic culminating love scenes between the two that any true romantic "period film" lover could ask for. *deep sigh* The dialogue and setting of their encounter is truly emotional and captivating!
Any romance reader needing a lazy trip down a poignant and subtle path to two people discovering love where they never expected it . . . oh . . .and also being fresh out of BBC period productions to watch, will be satisfied with "Slightly Married." If that sounds about right for your particular taste, don't hesitate to pick this one up!
K.
[Note: No graphic love scenes, but not "closed bedroom door"; no violence; no graphic language.]/
July 11, 2018
The sacrifices you make...
I thought it was supposed to be "a marriage of convenience"? Well, in Slightly Married it was more like a marriage of inconvenience. These two knuckleheads were going to get to ...until death do us part... from old age before they acknowledged their feeling and admitted to them.
I could listen to this narrator read the back of a cereal box and I would be thoroughly entertained. Rosalyn Landor really is the best narrator when it comes to historical romance. Her ability to become each character, change her voice and even her accent, is quite exceptional. The story wasn't bad, I just found it easier to get past my frustrations with the characters because Ms Landor distracted me.
Aidan is tasked with giving Eve the bad news that her brother had died at war. Little did Aidan know, but Eve's devastation is not just at the passing of her brother. Unfortunately, with Eve's brother's death, she will now lose her house and all the people who depend on her will be homeless too. Aidan made a promise to Eve's brother that he will look out for her. His answer to fixing the problem is to marry her...in name only.
Well, those plans go to hell in a handbasket.
I liked this story, but as you can tell, it frustrated me a wee bit. The Bedwyn's are a stuffy bunch, lead by the stuffiest of them all, Wulfric, the Duke of Bewcastle. Oh boy, this guy has ISSUES!! Turns out I've read Slightly Dangerous, Wulf's book and gave it 5 stars. I wonder if I would have loved it as much if I had met him before and seen him in all his bossy, arrogant, egotistical glory? Hmmm, maybe I need to do a re-read.
Slightly Married was well written and performed. I was engaged from start to finish and never felt like it dragged. Yes, I thought they should have admitted their feelings sooner, but I understood that they had promised not to make things emotional in the beginning. Plenty of steamy scenes to show their connection and their interaction with family and friends showed their personalities.
I am very tempted to see Aidan's brothers and sisters fall in love and if Rosalyn Landor narrates, I will be a happy camper.
I thought it was supposed to be "a marriage of convenience"? Well, in Slightly Married it was more like a marriage of inconvenience. These two knuckleheads were going to get to ...until death do us part... from old age before they acknowledged their feeling and admitted to them.
I could listen to this narrator read the back of a cereal box and I would be thoroughly entertained. Rosalyn Landor really is the best narrator when it comes to historical romance. Her ability to become each character, change her voice and even her accent, is quite exceptional. The story wasn't bad, I just found it easier to get past my frustrations with the characters because Ms Landor distracted me.
Aidan is tasked with giving Eve the bad news that her brother had died at war. Little did Aidan know, but Eve's devastation is not just at the passing of her brother. Unfortunately, with Eve's brother's death, she will now lose her house and all the people who depend on her will be homeless too. Aidan made a promise to Eve's brother that he will look out for her. His answer to fixing the problem is to marry her...in name only.
Well, those plans go to hell in a handbasket.
I liked this story, but as you can tell, it frustrated me a wee bit. The Bedwyn's are a stuffy bunch, lead by the stuffiest of them all, Wulfric, the Duke of Bewcastle. Oh boy, this guy has ISSUES!! Turns out I've read Slightly Dangerous, Wulf's book and gave it 5 stars. I wonder if I would have loved it as much if I had met him before and seen him in all his bossy, arrogant, egotistical glory? Hmmm, maybe I need to do a re-read.
Slightly Married was well written and performed. I was engaged from start to finish and never felt like it dragged. Yes, I thought they should have admitted their feelings sooner, but I understood that they had promised not to make things emotional in the beginning. Plenty of steamy scenes to show their connection and their interaction with family and friends showed their personalities.
I am very tempted to see Aidan's brothers and sisters fall in love and if Rosalyn Landor narrates, I will be a happy camper.
July 28, 2018
A good read. Strong heroine who did not put up with any of the bullshit of the ton and aristocracy that she married into...
On holidays. Normal schedule should resume next week!!!
On holidays. Normal schedule should resume next week!!!
December 6, 2021
What a delight!
This was a slow burn romance. If you like heavy romance, this is not the book for you! The relationship between MC was more realistic of someone who marries a stranger. No insta-love! The lovers gradually develop their feelings for one another. - which I loved!!
I have to say that the side characters enriched the story. Each character and there were many, were so well developed. - an impressive feat!
I'm looking forward to the next book!
This was a slow burn romance. If you like heavy romance, this is not the book for you! The relationship between MC was more realistic of someone who marries a stranger. No insta-love! The lovers gradually develop their feelings for one another. - which I loved!!
I have to say that the side characters enriched the story. Each character and there were many, were so well developed. - an impressive feat!
I'm looking forward to the next book!
August 5, 2025
To think I almost DNF’d this book in the first few chapters… what a FOOL I was.
Slightly Married is the kind of historical romance that sneaks up on you... not with flashy drama or over-the-top steam, but with genuine emotion, layered characters, and a love story that actually feels earned. Mary Balogh doesn’t just deliver a romance; she delivers a masterclass in the marriage of convenience trope.
There’s a quiet intensity to their relationship, no instant passion or swooning confessions, just two people trying to honor their word and unexpectedly falling in love along the way. And when do the emotions finally break through? It’s devastatingly good.
But what really makes this book shine is how well it immerses you in Regency society—the customs, the rules, the pressure of reputation. It’s historically grounded but never dry, richly detailed, without bogging down the story.
A perfect start to the Bedwyn series. I can’t wait to meet the rest of the siblings.
🎶“The House That Built Me” – Miranda Lambert
🎶“Bless the Broken Road” – Rascal Flatts
Slightly Married is the kind of historical romance that sneaks up on you... not with flashy drama or over-the-top steam, but with genuine emotion, layered characters, and a love story that actually feels earned. Mary Balogh doesn’t just deliver a romance; she delivers a masterclass in the marriage of convenience trope.
There’s a quiet intensity to their relationship, no instant passion or swooning confessions, just two people trying to honor their word and unexpectedly falling in love along the way. And when do the emotions finally break through? It’s devastatingly good.
But what really makes this book shine is how well it immerses you in Regency society—the customs, the rules, the pressure of reputation. It’s historically grounded but never dry, richly detailed, without bogging down the story.
A perfect start to the Bedwyn series. I can’t wait to meet the rest of the siblings.
🎶“The House That Built Me” – Miranda Lambert
🎶“Bless the Broken Road” – Rascal Flatts
July 13, 2015
4.5 stars
Wow! Slightly Married is one of the best Mary Balogh books I've read and an excellent start for the Bedwyn series.
The Bedwyns have always held a special place among historical romance lovers and I know I'm late in reading this, but better late than never I suppose.
What I love about Mary Balogh's writing is how realistic it is. I know, going into a Mary Balogh book, that I won't read about a modern couple that looks out of place. Mary Balogh knows her material and she never fails to take into account the period her books are set in and to give the readers faithful descriptions of social interactions and the clash of aristocracy/nobility and common people like no other author does.
But that's not even the best thing about her. MB is a master in characterisation. From the moment we meet the Bedwyns, we understand that none of them is 100% likeable. From Freyja, who seems like a total bitch, to Alleyne, who is easy-going, polite but a bit shallow nevertheless, no Bedwyn is perfect. And that's what makes them so interesting and compelling characters.
And of course there's Wulf. I'm sad his book is the last one in the series, because Wulf is one of the 3 or 4 characters I've come across in all my reading experience that just manage to outshine everybody else, even in their own books. I don't know how MB is going to handle his own book (it's definitely going to be very hard). What I know is that it's going to be a somewhat of a Pride & Prejudice retelling and what better character to draw a parallel with Mr.Darcy than Wulf?
Now, about the MCs:
Eve is a very good and kind woman at heart. She's helping so many people and trying to do her best to provide for them, but she manages to do it without being self-conscious or annoying like another heroine I once read about that had found herself in a similar situation (Ten Ways to Be Adored When Landing a Lord). Yet, what I admire the most about Eve is her spirit, her strength and her stubborness. She really is quite a force to be reckoned with.
Aidan is an even more intriguing character. Distant, unsmiling, grim and brooding, he is very similar to Wulf (maybe that's one of the reasons I love him so), but without his coldness and haughtiness. Aidan is so very honourable and kind, it's hard not to fall in love with him.
One married for honour, the other because she had no choice if she wanted to save the people she loved. If you're looking for an insta-love and an all-consuming passion from the get-go, you won't get it here. If you're looking for people who are so blinded by love they can't see anything else, look elsewhere.
If what you're looking for is a story about two people that first get to know each other and then fall in love slowly, or, in other words, a relationship that builds up in a realistic pace; if you're looking for superbly flawed characters and superior writing, then look no further.
Wow! Slightly Married is one of the best Mary Balogh books I've read and an excellent start for the Bedwyn series.
The Bedwyns have always held a special place among historical romance lovers and I know I'm late in reading this, but better late than never I suppose.
What I love about Mary Balogh's writing is how realistic it is. I know, going into a Mary Balogh book, that I won't read about a modern couple that looks out of place. Mary Balogh knows her material and she never fails to take into account the period her books are set in and to give the readers faithful descriptions of social interactions and the clash of aristocracy/nobility and common people like no other author does.
But that's not even the best thing about her. MB is a master in characterisation. From the moment we meet the Bedwyns, we understand that none of them is 100% likeable. From Freyja, who seems like a total bitch, to Alleyne, who is easy-going, polite but a bit shallow nevertheless, no Bedwyn is perfect. And that's what makes them so interesting and compelling characters.
And of course there's Wulf. I'm sad his book is the last one in the series, because Wulf is one of the 3 or 4 characters I've come across in all my reading experience that just manage to outshine everybody else, even in their own books. I don't know how MB is going to handle his own book (it's definitely going to be very hard). What I know is that it's going to be a somewhat of a Pride & Prejudice retelling and what better character to draw a parallel with Mr.Darcy than Wulf?
Now, about the MCs:
Eve is a very good and kind woman at heart. She's helping so many people and trying to do her best to provide for them, but she manages to do it without being self-conscious or annoying like another heroine I once read about that had found herself in a similar situation (Ten Ways to Be Adored When Landing a Lord). Yet, what I admire the most about Eve is her spirit, her strength and her stubborness. She really is quite a force to be reckoned with.
Aidan is an even more intriguing character. Distant, unsmiling, grim and brooding, he is very similar to Wulf (maybe that's one of the reasons I love him so), but without his coldness and haughtiness. Aidan is so very honourable and kind, it's hard not to fall in love with him.
One married for honour, the other because she had no choice if she wanted to save the people she loved. If you're looking for an insta-love and an all-consuming passion from the get-go, you won't get it here. If you're looking for people who are so blinded by love they can't see anything else, look elsewhere.
If what you're looking for is a story about two people that first get to know each other and then fall in love slowly, or, in other words, a relationship that builds up in a realistic pace; if you're looking for superbly flawed characters and superior writing, then look no further.
January 17, 2022
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a cute marriage of convenience story. I liked the side characters and the h’s own island of misfit toys — okay not really, more like house full of unwanted characters 😉. I liked that the H was broody and proper and that the time he spent towards the end had him reveal his more lighthearted self. I just wish there was more of that! The ending felt good, but it wasn’t nearly enough for this greedy reader! I also would’ve liked these two to communicate better as I really wanted to shake both of them a few times. The author set up for (what I assume will be) the next book in the series focusing on Aidan’s brother and I’ll probably add it to my tbr list to hopefully get another glimpse of these two in that one.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Eve and Aidan’s story. Aidan meets Eve when he is fulfilling one of his Captain’s dying wish to relay the message to his sister and to protect her no matter what. After a few strained encounters, Aidan learns what protection Eve needs and offers to marry her to allow her to keep her family home and income to help support her group of loved ones that are considered unwanted to the rest of society. Aidan is the second son to a Duke, and they both soon realize that the simple marriage of convenience isn’t as simple as they thought it would be. There is some family drama, a few sexy times, and some sweet moments…and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Eve and Aidan in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good for the most part. It did feel a little slow at times and then on fast-forward at the end, but I never skimmed.
Instalove:No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Aidan. I liked him. I appreciated his honor, loyalty, and especially his relationship with the children.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Eve, the “bleeding heart.” I liked her. I appreciated how she cared for others and was strong in her convictions.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Not technically,
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place for the couple and what I would call a HEA ending, but I would’ve really liked a farther glimpse into their future HEA and
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was a cute marriage of convenience story. I liked the side characters and the h’s own island of misfit toys — okay not really, more like house full of unwanted characters 😉. I liked that the H was broody and proper and that the time he spent towards the end had him reveal his more lighthearted self. I just wish there was more of that! The ending felt good, but it wasn’t nearly enough for this greedy reader! I also would’ve liked these two to communicate better as I really wanted to shake both of them a few times. The author set up for (what I assume will be) the next book in the series focusing on Aidan’s brother and I’ll probably add it to my tbr list to hopefully get another glimpse of these two in that one.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Eve and Aidan’s story. Aidan meets Eve when he is fulfilling one of his Captain’s dying wish to relay the message to his sister and to protect her no matter what. After a few strained encounters, Aidan learns what protection Eve needs and offers to marry her to allow her to keep her family home and income to help support her group of loved ones that are considered unwanted to the rest of society. Aidan is the second son to a Duke, and they both soon realize that the simple marriage of convenience isn’t as simple as they thought it would be. There is some family drama, a few sexy times, and some sweet moments…and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Eve and Aidan in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good for the most part. It did feel a little slow at times and then on fast-forward at the end, but I never skimmed.
Instalove:No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Aidan. I liked him. I appreciated his honor, loyalty, and especially his relationship with the children.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Eve, the “bleeding heart.” I liked her. I appreciated how she cared for others and was strong in her convictions.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Not technically,
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place for the couple and what I would call a HEA ending, but I would’ve really liked a farther glimpse into their future HEA and
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
June 19, 2020
Me encanta cuando un libro me sorprende satisface mis expectativas y hasta las supera, en este caso.. NO FUE ASÍ.
Tenemos uno de los inicios más lentos y fríos.
Comienza con un matrimonio por conveniencia pero en sus primeros encuentros no saltaban las chispas ni nada era todo muy mecánico y desapasionado al igual que su primera vez.
Para mí el 40% es para el olvido.
No todo es malo la verdad es que mejora mucho y más con la aparición de cierto personaje del que me enamoré, fue amor a primera vista OK y se trata nada más ni menos que el Duque de Bewcastle es el mejor personaje.
La parte final también me gustó mucho Aidan se avienta unas frases que UFF súper bonitas.
Mi calificación son 3.5 pero la daré la medio sólo por Wulf.
Vengo del futuro a bajarle calificación porque así soy, además que si Wulf te amo pero no es tu libro
Tenemos uno de los inicios más lentos y fríos.
Comienza con un matrimonio por conveniencia pero en sus primeros encuentros no saltaban las chispas ni nada era todo muy mecánico y desapasionado al igual que su primera vez.
Para mí el 40% es para el olvido.
No todo es malo la verdad es que mejora mucho y más con la aparición de cierto personaje del que me enamoré, fue amor a primera vista OK y se trata nada más ni menos que el Duque de Bewcastle es el mejor personaje.
La parte final también me gustó mucho Aidan se avienta unas frases que UFF súper bonitas.
Mi calificación son 3.5 pero la daré la medio sólo por Wulf.
Vengo del futuro a bajarle calificación porque así soy, además que si Wulf te amo pero no es tu libro
April 12, 2021
3.5⭐
Oh my, this book has one of the most beautiful love declaration that I have seen in a long while. Just for that it was worth finishing this!
I need to be honest, I did not like this book until maybe a little over halfway through, I only loved the Duke until then... (almost even cried with some reactions he had about certain things) then the book started getting better but it only turns excelente in the last 10%
This is a marriage of convenience story but I thought it was a bit boring their relationship. As I said, only in the end that it was beautiful.
As I am committed to start and/or finish a few series, I am looking forward to continuing this one.
Oh my, this book has one of the most beautiful love declaration that I have seen in a long while. Just for that it was worth finishing this!
I need to be honest, I did not like this book until maybe a little over halfway through, I only loved the Duke until then... (almost even cried with some reactions he had about certain things) then the book started getting better but it only turns excelente in the last 10%
This is a marriage of convenience story but I thought it was a bit boring their relationship. As I said, only in the end that it was beautiful.
As I am committed to start and/or finish a few series, I am looking forward to continuing this one.
September 1, 2017
What can I say? I'm a sucker for Mary Balogh's books.
After reading the last of this series first -- Slightly Dangerous (because it was the highest rated on GR) -- I'm now going back to read the entire series. This family is that compelling.
And, this is not just another marriage-of-convenience story; there are external as well as personal pressures that lead the characters to find love with one another. Along the way, we're introduced to the entire Bedwyn family, and they are a handful, to say the least.
Balogh also creates an intriguing cast of secondary characters, in the heroine's cobbled together "family" of lame ducks. You can't help but love all of them.
Aidan is delicious.
So, I'm off to explore the next chapter!
After reading the last of this series first -- Slightly Dangerous (because it was the highest rated on GR) -- I'm now going back to read the entire series. This family is that compelling.
And, this is not just another marriage-of-convenience story; there are external as well as personal pressures that lead the characters to find love with one another. Along the way, we're introduced to the entire Bedwyn family, and they are a handful, to say the least.
Balogh also creates an intriguing cast of secondary characters, in the heroine's cobbled together "family" of lame ducks. You can't help but love all of them.
Aidan is delicious.
So, I'm off to explore the next chapter!
January 9, 2024
My favourite trope - h saves the H. He's a military man, raised with strong convictions. She has similar strengths and accepts his help to save her 'family' of misfits. Masterful writing as always by this author. Simply wonderful.
Read
June 1, 2019I can't decide how to rate this. I really enjoyed how non mushy this was despite of it being a romance. It was all very sensible and despite it managed to be quite sweet? Definitely no insta-love that's for sure.
November 14, 2021
This is truly a beautiful, realistic look at what a marriage of convenience would really look like. Loved the side characters, loved the obvious chivalry and honor in the men. This was a pure delight.
March 3, 2022
The Berwyn saga is by far the best MF historical romance series I’ve ever read, and this first book is maybe my favorite of them all.
Apart from the lovely romance, this first book works incredibly well as an introduction to the amazing and passionate Bedwyn family. Six brothers and sisters, all unique and amazing, and a Bedwyn to the core.
Some books are better than others, but reading just one of them, in any order, makes it impossible not to be curious enough to try the others. Even minor characters, like Kit and Syd, were so intriguing that they ended up owning their own books. Balogh is the best creating lots of different types of MCs, she never repeats herself.
Aidan is my favorite Bedwyn. The brave, absolutely frightening man with a heart of gold that values honor and family above everything else. Such strong man needed a very unique heroine; and Eve was completely up to the task. She showed the strength of a Valkyrie to stand alone against this formidable family.
She was the first of six people who will end up imposing themselves on the Bedwyn clan and gaining their respect and love; but she, maybe with the exception of Eternally-Lovely Gervase, had the hardest time doing so. An unforgettable heroine, delicate and quiet with a strong and determined mind of her own. The perfect match for dark, brooding and secretly vulnerable, Aidan.
I love strong heroines, and it is a special kind of talent to write a heroine this strong and independent in a realistic way that keeps in mind the strict gender and social structures of the story’s time period. Mary Balogh is the best creating all types of realistic women and men, proper to their XIX century without the need to stain them with the naturalized toxicity of it.
This was a wonderful story without excessive drama that in the end managed, for the second time, to steal a few happy tears from me.
I would love to see these books be made into a tv adaptation. I hope some day some platform discovers this goldmine.
Apart from the lovely romance, this first book works incredibly well as an introduction to the amazing and passionate Bedwyn family. Six brothers and sisters, all unique and amazing, and a Bedwyn to the core.
Some books are better than others, but reading just one of them, in any order, makes it impossible not to be curious enough to try the others. Even minor characters, like Kit and Syd, were so intriguing that they ended up owning their own books. Balogh is the best creating lots of different types of MCs, she never repeats herself.
Aidan is my favorite Bedwyn. The brave, absolutely frightening man with a heart of gold that values honor and family above everything else. Such strong man needed a very unique heroine; and Eve was completely up to the task. She showed the strength of a Valkyrie to stand alone against this formidable family.
She was the first of six people who will end up imposing themselves on the Bedwyn clan and gaining their respect and love; but she, maybe with the exception of Eternally-Lovely Gervase, had the hardest time doing so. An unforgettable heroine, delicate and quiet with a strong and determined mind of her own. The perfect match for dark, brooding and secretly vulnerable, Aidan.
I love strong heroines, and it is a special kind of talent to write a heroine this strong and independent in a realistic way that keeps in mind the strict gender and social structures of the story’s time period. Mary Balogh is the best creating all types of realistic women and men, proper to their XIX century without the need to stain them with the naturalized toxicity of it.
This was a wonderful story without excessive drama that in the end managed, for the second time, to steal a few happy tears from me.
I would love to see these books be made into a tv adaptation. I hope some day some platform discovers this goldmine.
April 10, 2021
Pleasant, smooth and romantic series so far. Really enjoying it--and I'm a bit surprised in a way!
December 7, 2025
Classically sweet Balogh
Before I say anything about the book, I want to say how much I love Rosalyn Landor. Her male voice might not be the best one out there, but she's still one of my favorite narrators.
Now on to the review.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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Before I say anything about the book, I want to say how much I love Rosalyn Landor. Her male voice might not be the best one out there, but she's still one of my favorite narrators.
Now on to the review.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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June 17, 2020
3.25 stars.
Ms. Balogh's characters are amazing, they are all different, you don't fell the similarities between them. I read quite a bit of her books now and I can tell the difference between her heroes, not just physical but mentally too. Not like many other authors who write typical alpha males heroes which usually all the same except their names.
So, in this subject I like the cold Aidan and Eve too.
What I didn't like from this book?
The push and pull storyline.
Oh excuse me, the push, push, push, push and pull storyline, you know what I mean?
It drives me bonkers!
But still an okay read.
Ms. Balogh's characters are amazing, they are all different, you don't fell the similarities between them. I read quite a bit of her books now and I can tell the difference between her heroes, not just physical but mentally too. Not like many other authors who write typical alpha males heroes which usually all the same except their names.
So, in this subject I like the cold Aidan and Eve too.
What I didn't like from this book?
The push and pull storyline.
Oh excuse me, the push, push, push, push and pull storyline, you know what I mean?
It drives me bonkers!
But still an okay read.
April 6, 2016
Me esperaba más de mi debut con Mary Balogh. La historia me ha gustado pero no cómo está contada (para mí, poca pasión y sentimiento, con frases cortas, todo como muy aséptico). He conectado poco con los personajes principales aunque reconozco que ya he le echado el ojo a un Bedwyn que tiene toda la pinta de volverme tarumba. De todos modos sí me han quedado ganas de seguir conociendo a la familia, a ver si en los siguientes logro conectar más con esta escritora
September 21, 2022
Beautifully written story. Loved the angst & slow burn yet intense romance in this marriage of convenience. Aiden was so intriguing and Eve's character was refreshing. Will totally re-read. Can't wait to read the others in this seriees!
Re-read September 2022:
Absolutely brilliant, heartwarming, perfect. Will always be one of my favorite HR's.
Re-read September 2022:
Absolutely brilliant, heartwarming, perfect. Will always be one of my favorite HR's.
November 15, 2015
I have been meaning to read this series for the longest time. Years ago, when I first got hooked on romance, I read Slightly Dangerous but for some reason I never continued the series. But I am thrilled to get back to it. What we have happening in Slightly Married is Aiden is a military man. When his close friend is killed on the battlefield he made him a dying promise that he would protect his sister: no matter what. So when he goes to her to deliver the news of her brother, he finds out that her cousin will take everything she has and she and everyone she holds dear will be out on the streets with nothing unless she marries in a few days. So he offers her a deal she can’t refuse. Aiden wants to pursue his career and let Eve have her home and her adopted family. But his family has other plans for them. And before he realizes it, Eve is with Aiden in London during the season. And true feelings start to develop and Aiden will need to make a choice: his military career or the woman he is falling in love with.
This was such a sweet and charming love story and I fell instantly in love with the story, the characters and everything else in between!! Mary Balogh has created a wonderful love story that held me captive. I just couldn’t get enough of Eve and Aiden and the Bedwyn family (who are a hoot) and just after reading this one book, makes me realize what I have been missing out on. Slightly Married is the first of a series that shows us our important family is–whether its the one we are born with or the one that we create. Slightly Married is compelling, riveting and a page turner that leaves you wanting more from this author.
This was such a sweet and charming love story and I fell instantly in love with the story, the characters and everything else in between!! Mary Balogh has created a wonderful love story that held me captive. I just couldn’t get enough of Eve and Aiden and the Bedwyn family (who are a hoot) and just after reading this one book, makes me realize what I have been missing out on. Slightly Married is the first of a series that shows us our important family is–whether its the one we are born with or the one that we create. Slightly Married is compelling, riveting and a page turner that leaves you wanting more from this author.
April 2, 2022
2022 review:
Colonel Lord Aiden Bedwyn promises a dying solder he'll take care of his sister, Eve Morris. So he rolls up to Ringwood Manor and marries her. Eventually, Aiden's older brother finds out and brings her to town because ~FAMILIAL DUTY~ or something. Eve and Aiden figure out that they actually like each other or something? Gross. Also, they bone immediately after swimming in the river someone is going to get a terrible infection oh my goooooood.
1. This remains enjoyable. I do love a marriage of convenience that comes with the 'breaking in' period where two strangers figure out their new partners and discover that they are potentially into it (which will of course develop into the realization that they are VERY INTO IT).
2. I liked Aiden. I liked Eve. I even liked Wulf.
3. It's interesting to reread this since I've been on a prolonged Balogh hiatus—so many of her hallmarks are here, but they're softened somehow: the very internalized feelings stew Aiden and Eve navigate; the familial network; the importance of duty. It almost makes me want to give her recent series another go, maybe.
2013 review:
FAMILY SNOBS. DON'T EVEN KNOW.
Colonel Lord Aiden Bedwyn promises a dying solder he'll take care of his sister, Eve Morris. So he rolls up to Ringwood Manor and marries her. Eventually, Aiden's older brother finds out and brings her to town because ~FAMILIAL DUTY~ or something. Eve and Aiden figure out that they actually like each other or something? Gross. Also, they bone immediately after swimming in the river someone is going to get a terrible infection oh my goooooood.
1. This remains enjoyable. I do love a marriage of convenience that comes with the 'breaking in' period where two strangers figure out their new partners and discover that they are potentially into it (which will of course develop into the realization that they are VERY INTO IT).
2. I liked Aiden. I liked Eve. I even liked Wulf.
3. It's interesting to reread this since I've been on a prolonged Balogh hiatus—so many of her hallmarks are here, but they're softened somehow: the very internalized feelings stew Aiden and Eve navigate; the familial network; the importance of duty. It almost makes me want to give her recent series another go, maybe.
2013 review:
FAMILY SNOBS. DON'T EVEN KNOW.
June 30, 2024
We begin on the battlefield in Toulouse, year 1814. Colonel Lord Aidan Bedwyn surveys the carnage; he’s very grim, very stoic, very cold. Not the military man you want to mess with, for sure. Also he’s probably not your ideal pick for Romantic Leading Man:
Anyway. Aidan, our paragon of bleak martial sobriety, comes upon a fellow officer dying of his wounds. Turns out that it’s Percy Morris, a young captain who saved Aidan’s life some time ago. Percy faces death quite bravely—like any proper British subject should, but extracts a promise from Aidan to go and tell his sister, Eve, of her brother’s death in person, and also to protect her. Whatever that means?
So then Aidan’s like, “Well, shit, gotta go to Oxfordshire and tell some poor woman she has no living family, and also I have to help her do something? Fun times.”
And then we’re off to England.
Bum bum bum.
So, in England, Eve Morris is a pretty great human. She’s independently wealthy and completely happy with her life. Something of bleeding heart, she’s spent most of her efforts taking care of the poor and others whom Regency-era society deems undesirable (orphans, ex-convicts, amputees, unwed mothers, etc.). Eve’s pretty great.
But then in rides Aidan there to spoil her fucking day. Asshole.
Annnnd, now Eve’s got a problem. Because her dad was also an asshole and really wanted her to get married and improve the family legacy and all that nonsense, his will stipulates that she can only keep her inheritance if she gets married within 1 year after his death.
And the year is running out in...4 days.
Well, shit.
Lucky for us, we have Colonel Lord Aidan Bedwyn at hand, ready to step in and do the honorable thing. Which means: MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE!
*throws confetti*
So, on the short list of Renae’s favorite historical romance tropes we have: virgin heroes, second chance romance, married couples, and...marriage of convenience. This is the content I’m here for, and Mary Balogh really seems to have my number when it comes to the tropes I love. I fucking ate Slightly Married with a big spoon and then asked for second helpings. I love it and I’m here for it.
One thing I’ve noticed about Balogh is that her characters are super real. I absolutely believe that Eve and Aidan would be two people who exist is the real Regency world. These are two grown-up people with real issues, shared goals, and a mature attitude toward figuring things out. There’s drama in this book, but it’s like...grown-up drama. You know, the kind of drama that a 25-year-old and a 30-year-old with vastly opposing personalities would be having if they found themselves suddenly married for better or for worse.
Also, let’s just talk about the Bedwyns as a family, because man are they great. And they’re great because they are unlikeable as hell. Forget problematic fave, these guys are just problematic. Obviously the reader grows to like Aidan quite a bit by the time Slightly Married concludes, but I’m not like...he’s still a ultra-serious soldier with a too-highly ingrained need to always do the right thing and a bit of emotional constipation.
Anyways, yes. The Bedwyns are lowkey awful. And Eve gets mixed up with them because the Duke guilt-trips her into making an appearance in London for the Season. Gooddamit, Wulf. Stop being such an asshole. But! Eve doesn’t take shit from anyone, even cold-hearted dukes with quizzing glasses. She stands up to them all, doesn’t compromise on who she is, and eventually proves that she’s just as good as anyone, even if she’s the daughter of a Welsh coal miner.
Which, of course, gets Aidan’s love juices flowing:
Going along with that, I did like that Slightly Married has a pretty good outlook on the protagonists’ sex lives. Aidan and Eve sleep together pretty shortly after they’re married—because why the hell not? Two consenting adults who also happened to be married might as well, even if they’re not in love. Good for you, Mary Balogh! I support this so much.
Oh yeah, remember when I said Aidan was a little bit emotionally constipated? Well, he is. He’s got a slightly pessimistic outlook on romance in general:
And, I mean, yeah that’s a little dark. And maybe Aidan sort of changes his tune by the end of it all, BUT I LIKE IT.
I love Mary Balogh.
Moving on!
I will leave you with this wonderful thought on why would shouldn’t actually all want a Happily Ever After:
Look, maybe two people admitting that marriage a lot of hard work doesn’t give you the fuzzies, but like I said, I eat that shit up with a spoon. Simply Married, I salute you.
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He looked broad and solid and powerful and menacing. He had a harsh, weathered face, its darkness accentuated by black hair and eyebrows It was a grim face, with hard, nearly black eyes, a great hooked nose, and thin, cruel-looking lips.
Anyway. Aidan, our paragon of bleak martial sobriety, comes upon a fellow officer dying of his wounds. Turns out that it’s Percy Morris, a young captain who saved Aidan’s life some time ago. Percy faces death quite bravely—like any proper British subject should, but extracts a promise from Aidan to go and tell his sister, Eve, of her brother’s death in person, and also to protect her. Whatever that means?
So then Aidan’s like, “Well, shit, gotta go to Oxfordshire and tell some poor woman she has no living family, and also I have to help her do something? Fun times.”
And he had sworn on his most sacred honor to protect her. From what—or from whom—he had no idea.
No matter what!
The echo of those last three words of the dying man rang in his ears. What could they possibly mean? What exactly had he sworn to?
And then we’re off to England.
Bum bum bum.
So, in England, Eve Morris is a pretty great human. She’s independently wealthy and completely happy with her life. Something of bleeding heart, she’s spent most of her efforts taking care of the poor and others whom Regency-era society deems undesirable (orphans, ex-convicts, amputees, unwed mothers, etc.). Eve’s pretty great.
But then in rides Aidan there to spoil her fucking day. Asshole.
Annnnd, now Eve’s got a problem. Because her dad was also an asshole and really wanted her to get married and improve the family legacy and all that nonsense, his will stipulates that she can only keep her inheritance if she gets married within 1 year after his death.
And the year is running out in...4 days.
Well, shit.
Lucky for us, we have Colonel Lord Aidan Bedwyn at hand, ready to step in and do the honorable thing. Which means: MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE!
*throws confetti*
So, on the short list of Renae’s favorite historical romance tropes we have: virgin heroes, second chance romance, married couples, and...marriage of convenience. This is the content I’m here for, and Mary Balogh really seems to have my number when it comes to the tropes I love. I fucking ate Slightly Married with a big spoon and then asked for second helpings. I love it and I’m here for it.
One thing I’ve noticed about Balogh is that her characters are super real. I absolutely believe that Eve and Aidan would be two people who exist is the real Regency world. These are two grown-up people with real issues, shared goals, and a mature attitude toward figuring things out. There’s drama in this book, but it’s like...grown-up drama. You know, the kind of drama that a 25-year-old and a 30-year-old with vastly opposing personalities would be having if they found themselves suddenly married for better or for worse.
Also, let’s just talk about the Bedwyns as a family, because man are they great. And they’re great because they are unlikeable as hell. Forget problematic fave, these guys are just problematic. Obviously the reader grows to like Aidan quite a bit by the time Slightly Married concludes, but I’m not like...he’s still a ultra-serious soldier with a too-highly ingrained need to always do the right thing and a bit of emotional constipation.
Anyways, yes. The Bedwyns are lowkey awful. And Eve gets mixed up with them because the Duke guilt-trips her into making an appearance in London for the Season. Gooddamit, Wulf. Stop being such an asshole. But! Eve doesn’t take shit from anyone, even cold-hearted dukes with quizzing glasses. She stands up to them all, doesn’t compromise on who she is, and eventually proves that she’s just as good as anyone, even if she’s the daughter of a Welsh coal miner.
Which, of course, gets Aidan’s love juices flowing:
He was starting to wonder about her as a person. He had had a few tantalizing glimpses of a warmhearted, loyal, fun-loving woman, and it was not good for him to think of her a person. Worse, he had caught himself more than once with lustful thoughts about her.
Going along with that, I did like that Slightly Married has a pretty good outlook on the protagonists’ sex lives. Aidan and Eve sleep together pretty shortly after they’re married—because why the hell not? Two consenting adults who also happened to be married might as well, even if they’re not in love. Good for you, Mary Balogh! I support this so much.
Oh yeah, remember when I said Aidan was a little bit emotionally constipated? Well, he is. He’s got a slightly pessimistic outlook on romance in general:
“I do not believe in romantic love. It is a mere euphemism for sexual appetite with men and the desire for home and security with women. I do believe in loyalty and familial affection, though.”
And, I mean, yeah that’s a little dark. And maybe Aidan sort of changes his tune by the end of it all, BUT I LIKE IT.
I love Mary Balogh.
Moving on!
I will leave you with this wonderful thought on why would shouldn’t actually all want a Happily Ever After:
“But is there such a thing, Aidan? Happily ever after, I mean?”
“No,” he said, his smile softening to tenderness. “There is something infinitely better than happily ever after. There is happiness. Happiness is a living, dynamic thing, Eve, and has to be worked on every moment for the rest of our lives. It is a far more exciting prospect than that silly static idea of a happily ever after. Would you not agree?”
Look, maybe two people admitting that marriage a lot of hard work doesn’t give you the fuzzies, but like I said, I eat that shit up with a spoon. Simply Married, I salute you.
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