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The Old Maids' Club #1
Wallflower
The choice between adhering to a long-held pact and finally accepting love could prove Lady Tabitha Shelton’s unhinging. She is plump, plain, pleasant . . . and thoroughly unappealing to any of the men of the ton—apart from fortune hunters. A self-appointed wallflower, she has every intention of remaining one. Tabitha made a vow of spinsterhood with her cousins when they were girls, and she refuses to go back on her word. So far, she’s proven herself quite adept at warding off the blasted fortune hunters’ pursuits.
Noah deLancie, Marquess of Devonport, would prefer to marry for love and companionship—he’s a gentleman through and through—but circumstances have forced his hand: he needs money as badly as he needs a bride. When Noah’s brother-in-law suggests pursuit of his sister, Tabitha, a woman with a dowry large enough to cause even Croesus to blush and who is tantalizingly good company to boot, Noah stumbles into the future he hopes to secure. He’ll stop at nothing to convince Tabitha to marry him.
Nothing, that is, except perhaps the barrel of a dueling pistol, held to his face by his ladylove.
Noah deLancie, Marquess of Devonport, would prefer to marry for love and companionship—he’s a gentleman through and through—but circumstances have forced his hand: he needs money as badly as he needs a bride. When Noah’s brother-in-law suggests pursuit of his sister, Tabitha, a woman with a dowry large enough to cause even Croesus to blush and who is tantalizingly good company to boot, Noah stumbles into the future he hopes to secure. He’ll stop at nothing to convince Tabitha to marry him.
Nothing, that is, except perhaps the barrel of a dueling pistol, held to his face by his ladylove.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2011
279 people are currently reading
1218 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Gayle
73 books923 followers***Please note that series numbering of the Portland Storm series is different at Goodreads than it is on Catherine's website or at any retailer. Goodreads policy will not allow the series numbering to match anything else. If this confuses you, please complain to Goodreads, as it is not Catherine's fault.***
Catherine Gayle is a USA Today bestselling author of more than forty contemporary hockey romance and Regency-set historical romance novels and novellas. Soon, she'll be launching her debut contemporary small-town romance series. She's sold more than three-quarters of a million books. She’s a transplanted Texan living in North Carolina with two extremely spoiled felines. In her spare time, she watches way too much hockey and reality TV, plans fun things to do for the Nephew Monster’s next visit, and performs experiments in the kitchen which are rarely toxic.
Catherine doesn't check messages on Goodreads very often. Please contact her through her website for a timely response.
Catherine Gayle is a USA Today bestselling author of more than forty contemporary hockey romance and Regency-set historical romance novels and novellas. Soon, she'll be launching her debut contemporary small-town romance series. She's sold more than three-quarters of a million books. She’s a transplanted Texan living in North Carolina with two extremely spoiled felines. In her spare time, she watches way too much hockey and reality TV, plans fun things to do for the Nephew Monster’s next visit, and performs experiments in the kitchen which are rarely toxic.
Catherine doesn't check messages on Goodreads very often. Please contact her through her website for a timely response.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
March 7, 2013
1.5 stars
I really wanted to like the main characters, I really did... I love rooting for the underdog and the overlooked characters, but Tabitha is a nincompop and Devonport really is a milksop.
Her attitude was just too contrived and the I-must-push-everyone-away-because-they-only-love-me-for-my-money spiel was understandable until the 6 billionth time it was slapped into my face. Perhaps I'm just being cynical and hard-hearted, but I couldn't stop from being exasperated by her actions (mainly the ones done out of spite to Devonport - real mature there, lady) and wanted to punch her in the face.
I cheered when I read the paragraph: "What a blithering idiot she'd been". Yes! This! I felt a little bit better, perhaps a little bit vindicated... And then I had to slog through the last 30% of drivel. Ugh.
Sighs. In any case, I found the supporting characters MUCH more likeable and Jo's quite a lot of fun. I hope her story is a lot more fun than this one =_=
I really wanted to like the main characters, I really did... I love rooting for the underdog and the overlooked characters, but Tabitha is a nincompop and Devonport really is a milksop.
Her attitude was just too contrived and the I-must-push-everyone-away-because-they-only-love-me-for-my-money spiel was understandable until the 6 billionth time it was slapped into my face. Perhaps I'm just being cynical and hard-hearted, but I couldn't stop from being exasperated by her actions (mainly the ones done out of spite to Devonport - real mature there, lady) and wanted to punch her in the face.
I cheered when I read the paragraph: "What a blithering idiot she'd been". Yes! This! I felt a little bit better, perhaps a little bit vindicated... And then I had to slog through the last 30% of drivel. Ugh.
Sighs. In any case, I found the supporting characters MUCH more likeable and Jo's quite a lot of fun. I hope her story is a lot more fun than this one =_=
dnf_abandoned
August 28, 2020I persevered for as long as I could (4 chapters) ... but now my brain refuses to read and assimilate even one more line of this drivel!
Reading a newer author after a traditional regency was never a good idea in the first place. My bad! :(
Reading a newer author after a traditional regency was never a good idea in the first place. My bad! :(
January 12, 2021
Tabitha and Noah. The heroine is almost 30. I could not get past the fact that to me almost everyone acted and sounded like they were still teenagers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2018
Gosh, this book...
I'm going to be honest: Wallflower was BAD. It was a chore to finish this book; I was very close to dnf-ing it, but as I don't like leaving books unfinished I powered through.
This book is so awkwardly written, with a plethora of hard to read scenes and dialogs.
All of the characters are unlikable, especially the heroine's family. There is a difference between teasing among friends/family and being hostile and mean. Here's where the extreme awkwardness was so painful. Tabitha's brothers and father constantly humiliate her commenting on her weight and "old maid" status. I feel the author wanted to portrayed all of those comments as cute-y, but they weren't. Noah - the hero - even commented on the "teasing" (not once) saying something like "why did the entire Sheldon family find such jokes amusing?" Speaking of Noah, he was no better - he might not agree with what was being said, but he never really called them out on their behavior. I mean, he zeroed on Tabitha because of her dowry and how her money can help him with his financial problems, so what we as readers can expect, right? He had some semi-redeeming moments, but they were such over the top reactions they verged on being comical. In the end, I've never really believed Noah had any genuine feelings for Tabitha. Every time he professed his love (more of a lust to be honest) it felt fake. Here the lack of any significant character development became obvious.
Moreover, every supposed funny moment in the story was so awful and incredibile awkward. Tabitha wielding a pistol (want to read well written, funny and dramatic scene with pistol duel? Read Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean), Oglethorphe's (given how this character was, this name is so on the nose it's not even funny...) rants, the ton's evilness were all so over dramatic.
There was also a couple of really weird scenes where Tabitha's brothers were lusting (???) over hear breasts and her "lush figure", and I was honestly taken aback. And no, I'm not exaggerating, the specific phrase "lusting look" was used by the author.
Because you know, this book is full of mentions, descriptions, and reactions to Tabitha's ample breasts. Her boobs are honestly as much of a character of the story as she was. Oh, and hero's "burgeoning erection"...
I guess all of those complaints would not be so difficult to overlook, if the story was interesting; if it was engaging and made me care about the main couple. It wasn't and I didn't care.
Wallflower was really bad book, and I'm very disappointed because I always look foreword to read romances with plump/plus size/fat heroines.
I'm going to be honest: Wallflower was BAD. It was a chore to finish this book; I was very close to dnf-ing it, but as I don't like leaving books unfinished I powered through.
This book is so awkwardly written, with a plethora of hard to read scenes and dialogs.
All of the characters are unlikable, especially the heroine's family. There is a difference between teasing among friends/family and being hostile and mean. Here's where the extreme awkwardness was so painful. Tabitha's brothers and father constantly humiliate her commenting on her weight and "old maid" status. I feel the author wanted to portrayed all of those comments as cute-y, but they weren't. Noah - the hero - even commented on the "teasing" (not once) saying something like "why did the entire Sheldon family find such jokes amusing?" Speaking of Noah, he was no better - he might not agree with what was being said, but he never really called them out on their behavior. I mean, he zeroed on Tabitha because of her dowry and how her money can help him with his financial problems, so what we as readers can expect, right? He had some semi-redeeming moments, but they were such over the top reactions they verged on being comical. In the end, I've never really believed Noah had any genuine feelings for Tabitha. Every time he professed his love (more of a lust to be honest) it felt fake. Here the lack of any significant character development became obvious.
Moreover, every supposed funny moment in the story was so awful and incredibile awkward. Tabitha wielding a pistol (want to read well written, funny and dramatic scene with pistol duel? Read Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean), Oglethorphe's (given how this character was, this name is so on the nose it's not even funny...) rants, the ton's evilness were all so over dramatic.
There was also a couple of really weird scenes where Tabitha's brothers were lusting (???) over hear breasts and her "lush figure", and I was honestly taken aback. And no, I'm not exaggerating, the specific phrase "lusting look" was used by the author.
Because you know, this book is full of mentions, descriptions, and reactions to Tabitha's ample breasts. Her boobs are honestly as much of a character of the story as she was. Oh, and hero's "burgeoning erection"...
I guess all of those complaints would not be so difficult to overlook, if the story was interesting; if it was engaging and made me care about the main couple. It wasn't and I didn't care.
Wallflower was really bad book, and I'm very disappointed because I always look foreword to read romances with plump/plus size/fat heroines.
October 29, 2015
Lady Tabitha Shelton made a pact with her two cousins; that they would become old maids together, they wouldn’t let society’s expectation that they should all marry trap them. Not that Tabitha is inundated with offers, no matter that her dowry is embarrassingly large, she is far to plain and plump for that, and has been a wallflower since her debut. That is, until Noah, Marquess of Devonport one of her brothers best friends and of the few men she is comfortable enough to have a conversation with, suddenly starts flirting with her. At least she thinks he’s flirting. But is Noah like all the other men who has tried to pursue her; a fortune hunter or does he want Tabitha for herself?
I wanted a romance where the Wallflower was unexpectedly swept off her feet by the handsome and charming, or maybe dark and brooding, hero to shock and awe of all the ton. A Cinderellaesque type of story that I could happily float along with and enjoy. Wallflower kind of reached these expectations, the heroine was definitely a wallflower and hero was handsome, however, the only sweeping being done was by the servants.
Maybe I am too used to the heroes being commanding and alpha, so when a beta hero like Noah comes a long, I feel a little underwhelmed. However, I refuse to believe that a beta hero has to be bland, which unfortunately is how I felt about Noah. However, I did like Tabitha and Noah together, they had a very sweet, although at times sedate romance. I looked forward to the times when passion would flare between them as that’s when they seemed to have the most chemistry.
I did like this book, it was an enjoyable read and I am intrigued enough about the cast of supporting characters in Wallflower to want to read the next in this series. But, I just wish the romance between Noah and Tabitha was a little bit more exciting
Lady Tabitha Shelton made a pact with her two cousins; that they would become old maids together, they wouldn’t let society’s expectation that they should all marry trap them. Not that Tabitha is inundated with offers, no matter that her dowry is embarrassingly large, she is far to plain and plump for that, and has been a wallflower since her debut. That is, until Noah, Marquess of Devonport one of her brothers best friends and of the few men she is comfortable enough to have a conversation with, suddenly starts flirting with her. At least she thinks he’s flirting. But is Noah like all the other men who has tried to pursue her; a fortune hunter or does he want Tabitha for herself?
I wanted a romance where the Wallflower was unexpectedly swept off her feet by the handsome and charming, or maybe dark and brooding, hero to shock and awe of all the ton. A Cinderellaesque type of story that I could happily float along with and enjoy. Wallflower kind of reached these expectations, the heroine was definitely a wallflower and hero was handsome, however, the only sweeping being done was by the servants.
Maybe I am too used to the heroes being commanding and alpha, so when a beta hero like Noah comes a long, I feel a little underwhelmed. However, I refuse to believe that a beta hero has to be bland, which unfortunately is how I felt about Noah. However, I did like Tabitha and Noah together, they had a very sweet, although at times sedate romance. I looked forward to the times when passion would flare between them as that’s when they seemed to have the most chemistry.
I did like this book, it was an enjoyable read and I am intrigued enough about the cast of supporting characters in Wallflower to want to read the next in this series. But, I just wish the romance between Noah and Tabitha was a little bit more exciting
September 7, 2017
Strong, independent woman who has the strength and intelligence to stand against the social mores and live her own life... Sounds pretty damn good doesn't it.
Turns out this is like one of those real estate ads that tell you...
'it's a renovators delight' translation 'it's a dump you're going to have to rebuild from the ground up'
'Has character' translation 'it's hideous and extremely dated'
'Close to airport or train' translates to 'you are directly in a flight path or on top of a train line... and will never be able to sleep for the noise'
In this case, our super girl translates to 'whiny, tantrum prone toddler, who is fairly self absorbed and has no self esteem, she had a bad experience and has tarred the world with the same brush.' Seriously, she quite the bitch half the time, but granted, she's been 'kindly' shit on by her entire family from a young age that she's fat, so she has nothing to offer the world except a dowry... which they keep upping, and really, it's a miracle that she wasn't kidnapped and raped/married years ago, but there's enough of a question in the characters to wonder if that would have truly been a bad thing in their minds, if it meant she was finally married off. And her twin brother is exactly the same... he storms into a crowded room - bring the ton gossips with him no less - and starts shouting at her for having public sex. This is just a day before she's to be married, and he has only overheard a few words (of lies) from a known asshole before he runs home and 'ruins' her and tars the family with her besmirched shame. Also, damages her future marriage which will ever be gossiped about if it goes ahead. Seriously, these two are supposed to be 30yrs old! WTF
I didn't mind the H too much, but I totally get how the reviews are calling him a milksop. And really, I get he was worried about her brothers causing a scene if they found out about the bet, but he's simply leaving her uninformed and unsafe.
It's beyond me how bad this book turned out to be. There was just this cycle of 'down, up, dumb, down, up, dumb' repeating itself. There was some fairly strict 'HR cultural mores rules' through out, mixed with blatant, 'that would be too annoying for me to write, so we'll skip that rule in this scene.' So yes, it's mind boggling that a single woman would be allowed to go on a picnic in the park with a man, but this man is a fortune hunter to boot. Where exactly was her maid or escort?
I really wanted to like this one, but I just couldn't. There was obliviously my issues with character and story, but there was also a great download of characters and info in the start of the book, and everyone being called by multiple names that were just too hard to follow. I only finally pegged the twin because he was such an irritating assholic idiot. There's more, and worse. It did have potential, but the characters just had no brains.
Turns out this is like one of those real estate ads that tell you...
'it's a renovators delight' translation 'it's a dump you're going to have to rebuild from the ground up'
'Has character' translation 'it's hideous and extremely dated'
'Close to airport or train' translates to 'you are directly in a flight path or on top of a train line... and will never be able to sleep for the noise'
In this case, our super girl translates to 'whiny, tantrum prone toddler, who is fairly self absorbed and has no self esteem, she had a bad experience and has tarred the world with the same brush.' Seriously, she quite the bitch half the time, but granted, she's been 'kindly' shit on by her entire family from a young age that she's fat, so she has nothing to offer the world except a dowry... which they keep upping, and really, it's a miracle that she wasn't kidnapped and raped/married years ago, but there's enough of a question in the characters to wonder if that would have truly been a bad thing in their minds, if it meant she was finally married off. And her twin brother is exactly the same... he storms into a crowded room - bring the ton gossips with him no less - and starts shouting at her for having public sex. This is just a day before she's to be married, and he has only overheard a few words (of lies) from a known asshole before he runs home and 'ruins' her and tars the family with her besmirched shame. Also, damages her future marriage which will ever be gossiped about if it goes ahead. Seriously, these two are supposed to be 30yrs old! WTF
I didn't mind the H too much, but I totally get how the reviews are calling him a milksop. And really, I get he was worried about her brothers causing a scene if they found out about the bet, but he's simply leaving her uninformed and unsafe.
It's beyond me how bad this book turned out to be. There was just this cycle of 'down, up, dumb, down, up, dumb' repeating itself. There was some fairly strict 'HR cultural mores rules' through out, mixed with blatant, 'that would be too annoying for me to write, so we'll skip that rule in this scene.' So yes, it's mind boggling that a single woman would be allowed to go on a picnic in the park with a man, but this man is a fortune hunter to boot. Where exactly was her maid or escort?
I really wanted to like this one, but I just couldn't. There was obliviously my issues with character and story, but there was also a great download of characters and info in the start of the book, and everyone being called by multiple names that were just too hard to follow. I only finally pegged the twin because he was such an irritating assholic idiot. There's more, and worse. It did have potential, but the characters just had no brains.
May 19, 2012
Had a hard time putting down my Kindle when I was reading this! It took awhile to get to the heat, but once I got there, OH BABY! I wasn't disappointed. I usually prefer more sex in a novel, but I was okay with there being only two scenes in this story.
Other Notes-
-I liked Tabitha, but I wanted to put her in a headlock until she gave poor Noah an effing break.
-Noah, bless his heart. He took more sh*t then a lot of men would. When he finally gets stern, I rejoiced. I hate to see a good man hassled for no good reason.
-I couldn't *see* Noah in my head. There wasn't a lot of physical description about him. There were conflicting descriptions of his hair color. He was blonde, then he has light brown hair. Oooookay. It's really nice when an author helps paint a visual portrait of characters, and that wasn't done with Noah. Hardly done with any of the characters, to be honest. We got a somewhat better description of Tabitha, but not by much.
-I would've loved if Bethanne would've played more of a part. Felt weird to push the idea of the 3-women pact, and one woman was left out for 98% of the story.
-I felt Tabitha's father in this story was unrealistic. What high bred man of the time would be so tolerant of a 29 yr old unwed daughter who outright refused to obey his wishes? That bugged me.
I saved this story on my Kindle for further reading, which isn't often done. About 3-4 sections were bookmarked. I wish there had been more. Overall, I think it rates 3.75 stars.
Other Notes-
-I liked Tabitha, but I wanted to put her in a headlock until she gave poor Noah an effing break.
-Noah, bless his heart. He took more sh*t then a lot of men would. When he finally gets stern, I rejoiced. I hate to see a good man hassled for no good reason.
-I couldn't *see* Noah in my head. There wasn't a lot of physical description about him. There were conflicting descriptions of his hair color. He was blonde, then he has light brown hair. Oooookay. It's really nice when an author helps paint a visual portrait of characters, and that wasn't done with Noah. Hardly done with any of the characters, to be honest. We got a somewhat better description of Tabitha, but not by much.
-I would've loved if Bethanne would've played more of a part. Felt weird to push the idea of the 3-women pact, and one woman was left out for 98% of the story.
-I felt Tabitha's father in this story was unrealistic. What high bred man of the time would be so tolerant of a 29 yr old unwed daughter who outright refused to obey his wishes? That bugged me.
I saved this story on my Kindle for further reading, which isn't often done. About 3-4 sections were bookmarked. I wish there had been more. Overall, I think it rates 3.75 stars.
June 7, 2012
Catherine Gayle is a new-to-me author but I will definitely be reading more of her work. This was a really sweet little story about a plump "old maid" who is being courted by a family friend after years of being on the shelf.
Tabitha was a heroine it was hard not to love. All her life she had been led to believe she would be a spinster because she was overweight. It never really was discussed just exactly how "big" she was, but from the descriptions I'm guessing she just wasn't anorexic like most young debutantes seem to be. Noah seemed to find her appealing and that's all that's really important anyway. I love how he slowly made her feel as beautiful as he found her to be. It wasn't easy though - several times I wanted to smack her myself. But I do understand the mental anguish that goes along with not accepting your body image.
I also loved her family and friends. Even though her father and brothers should have been flogged for making her feel as if her size was all that there was to her, in the end they still loved her desperately and only wanted what was best for her, even if they went about it the wrong way.
A solid 3.5 stars and I'm looking forward to reading more in this trilogy!
Tabitha was a heroine it was hard not to love. All her life she had been led to believe she would be a spinster because she was overweight. It never really was discussed just exactly how "big" she was, but from the descriptions I'm guessing she just wasn't anorexic like most young debutantes seem to be. Noah seemed to find her appealing and that's all that's really important anyway. I love how he slowly made her feel as beautiful as he found her to be. It wasn't easy though - several times I wanted to smack her myself. But I do understand the mental anguish that goes along with not accepting your body image.
I also loved her family and friends. Even though her father and brothers should have been flogged for making her feel as if her size was all that there was to her, in the end they still loved her desperately and only wanted what was best for her, even if they went about it the wrong way.
A solid 3.5 stars and I'm looking forward to reading more in this trilogy!
Read
October 17, 2018Too many incidental characters thrown into the pot too quickly for this reader to make sense of them. I dnf'd at 8%
August 25, 2012
This was unsatisfying with a confusing message. Tabitha's transformation about 2/3rds through made no sense. She suddenly realized she could have been living less frumpishly? If her cousin Jo could be Belle of the Ball, pretty as you please while keeping herself an 'old maid' why couldn't she? Oh because everyone said she was plain and plump.
Other then the 'villain' of this title, no one called her plain or plump. Not her brothers, not her cousins and definitely not Noah. Part of her self-confidence issues stemmed from "people she loved" saying such to her, frequently she would have you believe but no one did! Jo came the closest by apologizing for possibly making Tabitha believe that all these years, but she never said it.
Then there's Noah, who apparently has been making lusty eyes at Tabby for years but no one said anything and he never approached her. It took both her brothers more or less selling her to him for him to realize by jove she's perfect!
I think I liked Leih and Miss Jennings the most but the former is in his own ridiculous farce of a romance with Jo and the latter disappears quite inexplicably given her 'vital' role in Tabby's plans.
And while we are here, I really really got confused by the authors use of names. Told from third person limited in either Noah's or Tabby's point of view, the author referred to several people (Tabby's brothers, and Leih) with different names. Tabby called them all their first names, while Noah alternated between their titles and first names, sometimes in the same chapter! So confusing!
I wanted to like this, but couldn't in the end. I wont be checking out the others either.
Other then the 'villain' of this title, no one called her plain or plump. Not her brothers, not her cousins and definitely not Noah. Part of her self-confidence issues stemmed from "people she loved" saying such to her, frequently she would have you believe but no one did! Jo came the closest by apologizing for possibly making Tabitha believe that all these years, but she never said it.
Then there's Noah, who apparently has been making lusty eyes at Tabby for years but no one said anything and he never approached her. It took both her brothers more or less selling her to him for him to realize by jove she's perfect!
I think I liked Leih and Miss Jennings the most but the former is in his own ridiculous farce of a romance with Jo and the latter disappears quite inexplicably given her 'vital' role in Tabby's plans.
And while we are here, I really really got confused by the authors use of names. Told from third person limited in either Noah's or Tabby's point of view, the author referred to several people (Tabby's brothers, and Leih) with different names. Tabby called them all their first names, while Noah alternated between their titles and first names, sometimes in the same chapter! So confusing!
I wanted to like this, but couldn't in the end. I wont be checking out the others either.
August 11, 2012
This is another of my free ebooks I found. I really liked this story because Tabitha is not some skinny little fainting miss. She is a plump girl and of course she does not fit into society's image of a perfect lady. She tries to hide her true self and blend into the background as a perfect wallflower. Even going so far as to choose gowns that will blend into her surroundings.
Because of a pact made as children, Tabitha, Bethanne, and Jospephine swear never to marry. The Old Maid's Club seems a bit crazy but they all admire their Aunt Rosaline.
This is Tabitha's story. She is determined to stick to the pact and never marry. Her father, of course, is determined she marry and raises her dowry to an insane amount that is sure to attract fortune hunters. Well that is exactly what her twin, other brothers and cousins direct her way when they find out one of their best friends is in dire straights. Lord Devonport is in desperate need of funds, despite finding dowries for his five sisters and hosting his mothers wedding. Tabby has known Devonport for years and does not like this change in his regard for her, but her family had already noticed the looks he had been giving her even before they realized the situation he was in. While trying to find an heiress and court Tabitha, things get muddled and tempers cause some crazy situations but things work out for the best.
Bets in the book at White's, dual, and meddlesome relatives!
Because of a pact made as children, Tabitha, Bethanne, and Jospephine swear never to marry. The Old Maid's Club seems a bit crazy but they all admire their Aunt Rosaline.
This is Tabitha's story. She is determined to stick to the pact and never marry. Her father, of course, is determined she marry and raises her dowry to an insane amount that is sure to attract fortune hunters. Well that is exactly what her twin, other brothers and cousins direct her way when they find out one of their best friends is in dire straights. Lord Devonport is in desperate need of funds, despite finding dowries for his five sisters and hosting his mothers wedding. Tabby has known Devonport for years and does not like this change in his regard for her, but her family had already noticed the looks he had been giving her even before they realized the situation he was in. While trying to find an heiress and court Tabitha, things get muddled and tempers cause some crazy situations but things work out for the best.
Bets in the book at White's, dual, and meddlesome relatives!
June 15, 2011
I believe I have just found one of my newest favorite authors! I just absolutely adored this book and will anxiously await purchasing several more of her books to see if they are just as good!
Tabitha is one month shy of 29, no skills at the pianoforte, or watercolors, or embroidery, or stitchery. She is plump and plain and the only thing going for her is a obscenely large dowry that her father in a desperate attempt to marry her off during her twelfth season is offering. But Tabitha isn't looking for a husband, she and her two cousins made a pact many many years ago to be more like their spinister aunt, calling themselves the "Old Maid's Club". Then along came Noah...
Noah is related by marriage. The Fifth Marquess of Davenport, after marrying off his five sisters and now his mother, he is short of funds and in desperate need of a wife with a large dowry. His best friends, brothers of Tabitha, urge him not to marry just any debutante, but Tabitha, a woman he actually has respect and some feelings for. But Tabitha realizes he is just another fortune hunter and Noah has to prove himself to be different than the ordinary money-grubber out there seeking to snag her hand in marriage.
This book had a great story line, tons of romance, sweet intimate moments - absolutely adored it.
Tabitha is one month shy of 29, no skills at the pianoforte, or watercolors, or embroidery, or stitchery. She is plump and plain and the only thing going for her is a obscenely large dowry that her father in a desperate attempt to marry her off during her twelfth season is offering. But Tabitha isn't looking for a husband, she and her two cousins made a pact many many years ago to be more like their spinister aunt, calling themselves the "Old Maid's Club". Then along came Noah...
Noah is related by marriage. The Fifth Marquess of Davenport, after marrying off his five sisters and now his mother, he is short of funds and in desperate need of a wife with a large dowry. His best friends, brothers of Tabitha, urge him not to marry just any debutante, but Tabitha, a woman he actually has respect and some feelings for. But Tabitha realizes he is just another fortune hunter and Noah has to prove himself to be different than the ordinary money-grubber out there seeking to snag her hand in marriage.
This book had a great story line, tons of romance, sweet intimate moments - absolutely adored it.
April 16, 2013
A good read. A little long winded but good none the less.
Story: Lady Tabitha Shelton, thinks every man only wants her for her ever increasing dowery. She believes no one wants her for herself. But all she wants is to be loved for who she is.
Noah deLancie, Marquess of Devonport, always thought he would marry for love but now that his debts are slowly upon him, he has no choice but to marry for money, even if it kills his pride. But when his brother in law suggests him to court Lady Tabitha, he thinks both his problem might be solve. Not only could he solve his problem with debt but also might have found love apart of the bargin. That is if everything goes according to plan.
My favorite character is Tabitha's twin brother Toby, he's just to funny. And I love the family dynamic. It really a good read to get you laughing. At time the heroine might piss you off with her view of herself but as the story goes it gets alittle better.
Happy Reading!! :)
Story: Lady Tabitha Shelton, thinks every man only wants her for her ever increasing dowery. She believes no one wants her for herself. But all she wants is to be loved for who she is.
Noah deLancie, Marquess of Devonport, always thought he would marry for love but now that his debts are slowly upon him, he has no choice but to marry for money, even if it kills his pride. But when his brother in law suggests him to court Lady Tabitha, he thinks both his problem might be solve. Not only could he solve his problem with debt but also might have found love apart of the bargin. That is if everything goes according to plan.
My favorite character is Tabitha's twin brother Toby, he's just to funny. And I love the family dynamic. It really a good read to get you laughing. At time the heroine might piss you off with her view of herself but as the story goes it gets alittle better.
Happy Reading!! :)
March 9, 2018
This is my first Catherine Gayle book.First 20 pages about what seems like 60 characters turn up.The heroine is Fat.No self esteem.Looks like she is a typical 21st century female. Even her suitors call her a fat cow.And then I noticed nobody is talking to each other.They are so busy winking.Men at the females and vice versa.Apropos of nothing at all. No need to read this book, just counting the winks -863- could help you pass a little bit of your precious life.No more of the book methinks,wink wink wink.
May 25, 2020
*Update: Still couldn't get through the whole book, although I did manage to get about halfway through. I just don't care what happens to the characters, didn't really like the plot, and most likely will never attempt to finish this book.
Just couldn't get into this book. I might try again sometime in the future, but for now, it's a dnf.
Just couldn't get into this book. I might try again sometime in the future, but for now, it's a dnf.
November 3, 2022
Tabitha and Noah had me hooked on them from the start! Both were such likable characters, with depth and dimension. I had thought I’d know how it would go, but they swayed a bit here and there, keeping things interesting.
May 29, 2012
This book, because really novel is too good of a word for this writing, is pathetic.
The writing Is awful, illformed and not suited for the time period. I detest when authors use "that" in every sentence.
The author also jumps from present tense to past tense in the same scene for the same characters! Clearly an editor was need or a better one. Half the time, because of poor editing one does not know what is happen, the scene is not set up for the reader, are they in a park? Are they at a ball? We do not know.
A little stickler for details, romantic love is a 20th century ideal, the female characters of this book would have had arranged marriages, and known whom or what type of man they would be chosen to marry, no one would have been given an option, unless financial independent or a governess, which they are of too high a class for. Let alone would they be of their ages.
Furthermore, the author fails to note that in 1812 plump as the author refers to Tabitha would have been if not desired, normal at least accepted, more so in an arranged marriage! Plump or fatness showed health, wealth and the ability to have children. Not to mention their clothing were meant to show large hips, large breast and corsets would easily tighten the waist. Thin only became sexually popular in the 1960 with the advent of Twiggy as a pop icon. Before her May West, Marilyn Monroe and Betty Garble were considered ideals of beauty, all three were size 8 to size 14.
I found this book a sorry try at subject many other authors have excelled at. Better writing can make one forget the authors lack of knowledge, and good editing can make a reader loose themselves in the story, this book does none of it, leaving one's mind to wander. Bad book, thank god it's not on paper and I didn't pay a cent!
The writing Is awful, illformed and not suited for the time period. I detest when authors use "that" in every sentence.
The author also jumps from present tense to past tense in the same scene for the same characters! Clearly an editor was need or a better one. Half the time, because of poor editing one does not know what is happen, the scene is not set up for the reader, are they in a park? Are they at a ball? We do not know.
A little stickler for details, romantic love is a 20th century ideal, the female characters of this book would have had arranged marriages, and known whom or what type of man they would be chosen to marry, no one would have been given an option, unless financial independent or a governess, which they are of too high a class for. Let alone would they be of their ages.
Furthermore, the author fails to note that in 1812 plump as the author refers to Tabitha would have been if not desired, normal at least accepted, more so in an arranged marriage! Plump or fatness showed health, wealth and the ability to have children. Not to mention their clothing were meant to show large hips, large breast and corsets would easily tighten the waist. Thin only became sexually popular in the 1960 with the advent of Twiggy as a pop icon. Before her May West, Marilyn Monroe and Betty Garble were considered ideals of beauty, all three were size 8 to size 14.
I found this book a sorry try at subject many other authors have excelled at. Better writing can make one forget the authors lack of knowledge, and good editing can make a reader loose themselves in the story, this book does none of it, leaving one's mind to wander. Bad book, thank god it's not on paper and I didn't pay a cent!
April 30, 2012
I really wanted to like it this story... it sounded like such a great premise. However, it comes off as completely ridiculous. When she was 12, Lady Tabitha made a pact with two of her cousins to become old maids together. Now, at 29, she is still holding to that pact. She thinks of herself as fat, unattractive, and unexceptional but for her enormous dowry. She's been around the ton long enough to be an established wallflower, and easily fends off the fortune hunting members of society. Enter long-time family friend, and brother-in-law, Lord Noah deLancie, Marquess of Devonport. He's sort of liked her from a distance, but now he's desperate for money and that "like" ratchets up a notch. Still, Tabitha wants to be loved for herself, and not her dowry, and doesn't believe a thing Noah tells her. Besides, she's sworn to be an old maid, right?
It's all rather standard fare, until the end. That just went too far for me to believe, and left me with a sour taste for the book. Without giving anything away, Tabitha acts completely out of character, and suddenly everyone realizes Tabitha is someone to be reckoned with. While there are hints of it all along, the ending just went too far for me to enjoy.
There were also too many characters to keep track of. All of them were more or less related in some fashion. Some characters show up, and then soon vanish, even those integral to Tabitha's schemes. Some were clearly only there in order to have their own book. With so many characters, none of them were developed well enough to be interesting. While Tabitha shows sparks of life, they are few and far between. On the whole, she comes off as a pitiable dunce with no self-esteem.
It's all rather standard fare, until the end. That just went too far for me to believe, and left me with a sour taste for the book. Without giving anything away, Tabitha acts completely out of character, and suddenly everyone realizes Tabitha is someone to be reckoned with. While there are hints of it all along, the ending just went too far for me to enjoy.
There were also too many characters to keep track of. All of them were more or less related in some fashion. Some characters show up, and then soon vanish, even those integral to Tabitha's schemes. Some were clearly only there in order to have their own book. With so many characters, none of them were developed well enough to be interesting. While Tabitha shows sparks of life, they are few and far between. On the whole, she comes off as a pitiable dunce with no self-esteem.
April 4, 2015
1.5 stars, accidentally erased my original review, which was as about as endearing as this book was honestly. Insufferable nonsense for most of the book. I liked Noah more than the other characters as he was not a rake/scoundrel/ne'er do well as is usual in historical romances. Tabitha was a twit and beyond grating in her behavior. Add silly, cliched and over done plot twists and you have what felt like a knockoff romance of more well written romances on the market. I do not like to be harsh but I think the original idea of determined spinsters meeting their match-which flips the rakes meeting their match on its head-is a worthwhile and intriguing idea. I wish this particular tale would not have fallen flat for me. I was bored and done with this book and realized I was only half done. There is a final plot twist that sent my rating of this book plummeting. It was unneeded and as overwrought as a debutante in her first season!
September 19, 2019
Sept 2019 re-read:
Despite my Kindle lying to me I think I have read this before. Perhaps because of that I can't say I enjoyed this particularly. It was a little too drawn out for the plot as nothing much happens in it. Our heroine has a complex about being "too fat to be loved" or something and jumps down our hero's throat every time he does anything romantic. Doesn't make for very fun romance reading.
This could have been acceptable but our heroine finds her feminine mystique through a Cinderella transformation about 50% in. Except that she loses her mojo and gains it back at the drop of a hat which made for frustrated reading.
All this also would have been enjoyable in a farcical way except that there was a duel plot over the last 25% of the book which was confusing as heck. I didn't follow any of it which made the book end on an odd note.
Not really recommended.
Despite my Kindle lying to me I think I have read this before. Perhaps because of that I can't say I enjoyed this particularly. It was a little too drawn out for the plot as nothing much happens in it. Our heroine has a complex about being "too fat to be loved" or something and jumps down our hero's throat every time he does anything romantic. Doesn't make for very fun romance reading.
This could have been acceptable but our heroine finds her feminine mystique through a Cinderella transformation about 50% in. Except that she loses her mojo and gains it back at the drop of a hat which made for frustrated reading.
All this also would have been enjoyable in a farcical way except that there was a duel plot over the last 25% of the book which was confusing as heck. I didn't follow any of it which made the book end on an odd note.
Not really recommended.
June 17, 2012
Loved it!!!
I totally fell in love with Tabitha. Overweight, Old Maid, Wallflower, and Completely Insecure. This totally annoyed some readers, but I found it perfect. I think she did push Noah away one too many times, but in the real world, you don’t lose 29 years of Self Esteem issues just because the man of your dreams, who desperately needs your money, says he loves you. I would still be suspicious that it was the money and not me that was truly loved as well. Speaking of our hero… Noah is a different type of hero as well. He doesn’t drink Brandy like water, he doesn't gamble, he doesn't swear, he doesn't fight, and he’s not a Rake. He sounds boring on paper, but is actually a pretty interesting guy. And handsome as all get out!
This is R-rated in the romance department, but you have to wait until the last few chapters for it.
Happy reading!
-Frankie
I totally fell in love with Tabitha. Overweight, Old Maid, Wallflower, and Completely Insecure. This totally annoyed some readers, but I found it perfect. I think she did push Noah away one too many times, but in the real world, you don’t lose 29 years of Self Esteem issues just because the man of your dreams, who desperately needs your money, says he loves you. I would still be suspicious that it was the money and not me that was truly loved as well. Speaking of our hero… Noah is a different type of hero as well. He doesn’t drink Brandy like water, he doesn't gamble, he doesn't swear, he doesn't fight, and he’s not a Rake. He sounds boring on paper, but is actually a pretty interesting guy. And handsome as all get out!
This is R-rated in the romance department, but you have to wait until the last few chapters for it.
Happy reading!
-Frankie
October 2, 2018
A tedious depressing read. Tabby is so pathetic and so starved for love that even a fake one from a footman no less will have to do. And she a Lady and a sworn spinster?! If she had to experience sex ~ here's one scenario ~ she should have gone to a practiced rake (of her own class, the ton abounds with them) and impoverished into the bargain and pay him for a grand experience not a servant! The problem with Tubby Tabby is that she has no self~respect and does not truly realize her worth as a person and as a woman, until she met Noah. P.S. ~ I did not finish the read because I really do not want to read about slightly sluttish main characters.
February 9, 2013
If I could, I'd give this book a half star.
The H needs to marry a rich woman (of course) and the h's brothers nudge him towards her. She's a bluestocking, wallflower, and old maid who insists on not marrying a fortune hunter.
I found the h to be ridiculously stupid. She's treated like shit by her father and brothers who all think they know what is best for her and yet she wouldn't stand up to them despite not taking crap from anyone else. She had all these "modern" thoughts but at the end of the day, wouldn't let them out.
The H was mediocre. Nothing to write home about.
The H needs to marry a rich woman (of course) and the h's brothers nudge him towards her. She's a bluestocking, wallflower, and old maid who insists on not marrying a fortune hunter.
I found the h to be ridiculously stupid. She's treated like shit by her father and brothers who all think they know what is best for her and yet she wouldn't stand up to them despite not taking crap from anyone else. She had all these "modern" thoughts but at the end of the day, wouldn't let them out.
The H was mediocre. Nothing to write home about.
May 9, 2012
I liked the premise of the book. The characters were lovable. I felt bad for the heroine and her body image. She felt like no one could love her just for her. The hero was okay but did not do much for me. I like my men strong not unsure of themselves. I dont know it was a fun, fast read. Not the worst book but not the best either. I found some of the secondary characters a little more interesting and hope that they have their own book.
October 26, 2015
This tale introduces the principal characters when they are still just kids, cousins and filled with mischief. Then the story continues as they have reached “of an age to marry.” The ladies are so totally believable and likable that the reader can’t help but cheer or gasp at the outcomes to which they are exposed. Can’t wait to see the next few episodes Ms. Gayle.
May 23, 2012
This was a GREAT kindle freebie.... A few parts dragged but the love scenes were steamy and overall I was pretty impressed. I will be seeking out more books by this author.
January 1, 2018
Sorry, couldn't finish!
January 4, 2025
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This book is the first in the Old Maids duology. I think there was originally a plan for a trilogy, but there is no third book. It can be read as a standalone. There are several references to romances that may exist in another series.
This book is boring drivel and I do not recommend it. The characters act as if they are in high school. The relationship has no depth. I have no idea what Noah, the male main character, sees in Tabitha, the female main character. She is childish and obsessed with how she looks in a negative way. She is barely functional in social situations. She acts impulsively and ignores her own internal warnings when it comes to a fortune hunter/rake who is interested in her money. Frequently, she is described as pouting. In one scene, she is upset and runs out into the street by herself (which is not allowed at the time) in the rain. It would have been more admirable for her to have a more adult, proactive reaction.
Noah is kind and looks after his family. He knew that this family was desperate for money yet takes very few actions to research what he can do or to make investments that could help. He finally decides to marry for money. Despite that, he is a good sort.
Most of the characters are one dimensional with the exception of Tabitha’s cousin, Jo, and her admirer, Leith.
At the beginning of the book, Tabitha reflects that she cannot play the piano, paint, embroidery, or do any other traditional pursuit. That is a bit surprising since she would have had an education that included the basics in those skills. In addition, she seems to have no other interests, nor does she appear to be good at anything else including conversations. She has no sparkle.
The story alternates between Noah and Tabitha’s point of view.
As a note, 10,000 pounds in 1800 is worth over a million today according to some sources (the exact amount varies). It is implied that Tabitha’s dowry was more than 50,000 pounds and would make Croesus envious. Those numbers would definitely attract fortune hunters. Her family was extraordinarily wealthy, as it was stated at one point that her father was also generous to her brothers.
I do not plan to continue reading this author.
This book is the first in the Old Maids duology. I think there was originally a plan for a trilogy, but there is no third book. It can be read as a standalone. There are several references to romances that may exist in another series.
This book is boring drivel and I do not recommend it. The characters act as if they are in high school. The relationship has no depth. I have no idea what Noah, the male main character, sees in Tabitha, the female main character. She is childish and obsessed with how she looks in a negative way. She is barely functional in social situations. She acts impulsively and ignores her own internal warnings when it comes to a fortune hunter/rake who is interested in her money. Frequently, she is described as pouting. In one scene, she is upset and runs out into the street by herself (which is not allowed at the time) in the rain. It would have been more admirable for her to have a more adult, proactive reaction.
Noah is kind and looks after his family. He knew that this family was desperate for money yet takes very few actions to research what he can do or to make investments that could help. He finally decides to marry for money. Despite that, he is a good sort.
Most of the characters are one dimensional with the exception of Tabitha’s cousin, Jo, and her admirer, Leith.
At the beginning of the book, Tabitha reflects that she cannot play the piano, paint, embroidery, or do any other traditional pursuit. That is a bit surprising since she would have had an education that included the basics in those skills. In addition, she seems to have no other interests, nor does she appear to be good at anything else including conversations. She has no sparkle.
The story alternates between Noah and Tabitha’s point of view.
As a note, 10,000 pounds in 1800 is worth over a million today according to some sources (the exact amount varies). It is implied that Tabitha’s dowry was more than 50,000 pounds and would make Croesus envious. Those numbers would definitely attract fortune hunters. Her family was extraordinarily wealthy, as it was stated at one point that her father was also generous to her brothers.
I do not plan to continue reading this author.
December 2, 2020
4 STARS, HISTORICAL REGENCY ERA ROMANCE DRAMA
3 young girl cousiins at ages of 11 to 13, the tender ages when name calling & undeveloped bodies affect their total self image swear a pledge together '& to each other, to remain a spinster forever. The name of this Series is the name of their little club of 3, The Old Maids' Club Book 1.
A wonderful idea that was just waiting to be put in a storyline. Great relatable characters that are likable or plainly undesirable with societal repercussions. I loved the closeness of the families. For instance, twin brother tells his best friend whom is well respected & liked in his vast family; not to mention his sister is married to one of the twins brothers: I, didn't know you needed to marry Tabby, my Father has put a fortune up for her and you do all ready get along with her and you are already like one of the Family.
It wasn't just that easy as Toby tried to imply to Noah, feelings get complicated. Plus, a horrid bet was placed about ruining Tabby to have to marry just for her fortune & Noah, was livid; but could only with his friend watch the deviate croneys & be there to run interference.
Fortunately for Tabby, Noah loved her he had such a lust for her body he just hadn't been able to think that far ahead & already wanted her. A great story, got only 4 stars because it just seemed to take a long time for Noah's Lust to awaken. Recommend
3 young girl cousiins at ages of 11 to 13, the tender ages when name calling & undeveloped bodies affect their total self image swear a pledge together '& to each other, to remain a spinster forever. The name of this Series is the name of their little club of 3, The Old Maids' Club Book 1.
A wonderful idea that was just waiting to be put in a storyline. Great relatable characters that are likable or plainly undesirable with societal repercussions. I loved the closeness of the families. For instance, twin brother tells his best friend whom is well respected & liked in his vast family; not to mention his sister is married to one of the twins brothers: I, didn't know you needed to marry Tabby, my Father has put a fortune up for her and you do all ready get along with her and you are already like one of the Family.
It wasn't just that easy as Toby tried to imply to Noah, feelings get complicated. Plus, a horrid bet was placed about ruining Tabby to have to marry just for her fortune & Noah, was livid; but could only with his friend watch the deviate croneys & be there to run interference.
Fortunately for Tabby, Noah loved her he had such a lust for her body he just hadn't been able to think that far ahead & already wanted her. A great story, got only 4 stars because it just seemed to take a long time for Noah's Lust to awaken. Recommend
May 4, 2017
I had many problems with this book. SO MANY NAMES. Do we need to know the name of everyone they met on the street? I was more interested in Jo than Tabitha. HATED the nickname Tabby - I dare you not to picture a cat. She was such a pain in the neck. I felt she was very immature. "I'm never going to get married because I promised my friends" - you were a kid when you did that, grow up! "I'm fat, I'm fat" - that got old really fast, and yet it continued ad nauseum. She tells Noah to stay away from her, but then she likes the attention so much she says he can court her, along with everyone that wanted to court her. She kept on and on about him being a fortune hunter, but she liked being with him. Yet, Oglethorpe, who she also knew was a fortune hunter and he gave her the creeps, she allows him to take her someplace private and then she almost gets in trouble. Then, I felt she was too forward sexually, especially since she didn't want to get married. It took me a few days to get through this book because I couldn't stand reading about her too much.
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