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Daring Duchesses #1
Some Like It Wicked
DEVIL BY NAME…
Rupert Stirling, Duke of Stratton, has long since acquired the nickname Devil. and with outrageous exploits both in and out of ladies’ bedchambers, my, has he earned it!
Risqué behavior is beyond Pandora Maybury, widowed Duchess of Wyndwood—although with her dark secret she’s far too well acquainted with being the subject of ribald gossip for her liking. If only the Ton knew just how innocent she really was...including Rupert who, after rescuing her from a compromising situation, seems intent on wickedly compromising her himself!
Rupert Stirling, Duke of Stratton, has long since acquired the nickname Devil. and with outrageous exploits both in and out of ladies’ bedchambers, my, has he earned it!
Risqué behavior is beyond Pandora Maybury, widowed Duchess of Wyndwood—although with her dark secret she’s far too well acquainted with being the subject of ribald gossip for her liking. If only the Ton knew just how innocent she really was...including Rupert who, after rescuing her from a compromising situation, seems intent on wickedly compromising her himself!
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
96 people are currently reading
309 people want to read
About the author
Carole Mortimer
1,296 books909 followersI have written almost 250 romance novels in contemporary and Regency.
I am a USA Today Bestselling Author and recipient of the 2015 RWA Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2014 I received a Pioneer of Romance Award from Romantic Times in the US and in 2012 I was recognised by Queen Elizabeth II for my 'outstanding service to literature'.
I am very happily married to Peter with six sons, and live on the Isle of Man
I am a USA Today Bestselling Author and recipient of the 2015 RWA Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2014 I received a Pioneer of Romance Award from Romantic Times in the US and in 2012 I was recognised by Queen Elizabeth II for my 'outstanding service to literature'.
I am very happily married to Peter with six sons, and live on the Isle of Man
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 20, 2017
A relatively short novel that kept my attention throughout. Both the H and heroine were quite fascinating characters. I really admired the heroine who has to live with the legacy of a sordid reputation that she has done nothing to receive. She manages to hold her head high among the vile gossipy matrons of the Ton because she has two close female friends ( fellow widowed duchesses who had also been in horribly unsatisfying marriages ). Everyone thinks of Pandora as a scarlet adulteress because her late husband had died in a duel with her alleged lover; everyone slandered her even more because the alleged lover had also been a married man with kids. In reality, Pandora is a virgin widow because her late husband had been gay and he had died fighting a duel with a bi-sexual married man who had been having an affair with his lover. I really don't understand how Pandora could have played a martyr for a husband who was such a selfish asshole but perhaps it was because her marriage had provided her father with the means to pay off a lot of debts. Sigh. She's yet another young woman whose mercenary parents have used her for their own material gain.
The hero is Rupert, the rakish and handsome Duke Of Stratton. Rupert happens to be former soldier whose father died while he was off fighting on the continent. Unfortunately for Rupert, before he had left to fight in the war, he had gotten himself involved in a "friends with benefits sexual arrangement" with a woman whose goals had included marriage. This "lady" had not been some shy, innocent ingenue but a very mercenary social climber who had hoped to gain a proposal of marriage from a duke's son before he left for the war. Things didn't work out the way she intended, because Rupert had bluntly told her she was in no way qualified or suitable to be a candidate for the position of his future wife. This angered her so much that she set to working her charms on Rupert's dad and miraculously got the old duke to marry her ! This was supposed to be her grand vengeance against Rupert for spurning and insulting her. After his dad's death, Rupert is faced with the big problem of getting rid of the witch because his dad had stipulated in his will that she should still be allowed to stay in any of the family's numerous estates and homes whenever she felt like it. This cunning she-dragon then started to follow Rupert to whichever home in which he was presently ensconced. She did this in her desperate attempts to create scandal, to seduce Rupert and to get him to marry her. This avaricious tart truly had some high hopes for herself and her attempts to seduce a man who continually rejected her and was repulsed by her, were just pathetic. Therefore Rupert has a big problem of his own by trying avert any future scandal that his stepmama/former lover would inevitably cause.
Rupert's first meeting with Pandora is quite dramatic because he manages to save her from a wannabe rapist/stalker. The young man thought that Pandora, being a widowed duchess with a scandalous reputation, would be willing to open her legs for him. Although Rupert saves her, his opinion of her is very low because he also believes all the untrue rubbish that everyone is saying about her. He escorts her home and is shocked to find her living in a modest town house. Pandora's dead hubby was not as generous in his will as Rupert's dumbass father had been to the witchy whore stepmama. Anyway Rupert finds himself paying a lot of attention to Pandora because he is lusting after her 24/7 and wants her to be his mistress. He keeps turning up at her home uninvited and is not deterred by her many rejections of his advances. This is so typical of a Carole Mortimer hero. Pandora is so fed up of Rupert's attentions that she decides to sell her town house and move to a small cottage in the country. She sets her plans in motion but more trouble erupts for her because someone is trying to kill her. On one occasion the wannabe killer sets fire to her bedroom and destroys a lot of her property.
Rupert installs himself as her savior. Almost against his will he finds himself wanting to protect her and save her from the unknown attacker. Things continue to heat up between Rupert and Pandora until a point is reached where Rupert literally drags her to his town house because he is scared that she will indeed be killed unless she is in a safe environment. The witchy whore stepmama is almost insane with jealousy and hatred when Rupert arrives home with Pandora in his arms. She starts to insult Pandora and call her names. I found this very funny because it was coming from a woman who had been little more than a whore herself but I digress. Rupert manages to convince Pandora that the solution to both of their problems is for them to marry each other. The marriage will restore her ruined reputation and it will stop the witchy whore stepmama from trying to trap him into an unwanted wedding. The stepmama is appalled and almost in tears because she realizes that she has lost. She threatens to spread all sort of nasty rumours about Pandora but Rupert has finally had it with her and tells her to get the F out of the town house and to stop following him around like a bitch in heat.
The marriage takes place and the insecure Pandora is still thinking that Rupert has a tendre for the stepmama. Their animosity brews for a while but Rupert is shocked to discover that Pandora is virgin. Eventually he learns about her gay late husband and this surprised him since the late hubby had been a handsome man who had never dressed or acted like a "dandy". Rupert and Pandora's relationship progresses slowly with each starting to fall in love with the other but there's still the mystery of her wannabe killer/stalker to solve. Soon the villain is revealed to be the last person that Pandora would have expected. He's her late hubby's lawyer and even I am shocked because this guy had always been so considerate and sweet towards to Pandora. Rupert manages to come to his wife's aid once again and the villain is busted and sent away with his tail between his legs. Rupert has really been Pandora's own special hero throughout this novel.
This wasn't the best regency historical I've ever read but I did find it quite absorbing at times. Rupert came across more like a besotted swain rather than a cynical rake and Pandora never gave in to him too easily. I also admired Pandora for keeping quiet about the real reason for her dead hubby's duel; she had felt that the other man's widow and his 2 kids would be publicly humiliated if everyone knew that he had been bi-sexual. That was a bit too much self sacrificial martyrdom for Pandora to take onto herself, in my opinion. Maybe I'm too selfish but I didn't see why her reputation should have been dragged through the mud just to protect these people.
The hero is Rupert, the rakish and handsome Duke Of Stratton. Rupert happens to be former soldier whose father died while he was off fighting on the continent. Unfortunately for Rupert, before he had left to fight in the war, he had gotten himself involved in a "friends with benefits sexual arrangement" with a woman whose goals had included marriage. This "lady" had not been some shy, innocent ingenue but a very mercenary social climber who had hoped to gain a proposal of marriage from a duke's son before he left for the war. Things didn't work out the way she intended, because Rupert had bluntly told her she was in no way qualified or suitable to be a candidate for the position of his future wife. This angered her so much that she set to working her charms on Rupert's dad and miraculously got the old duke to marry her ! This was supposed to be her grand vengeance against Rupert for spurning and insulting her. After his dad's death, Rupert is faced with the big problem of getting rid of the witch because his dad had stipulated in his will that she should still be allowed to stay in any of the family's numerous estates and homes whenever she felt like it. This cunning she-dragon then started to follow Rupert to whichever home in which he was presently ensconced. She did this in her desperate attempts to create scandal, to seduce Rupert and to get him to marry her. This avaricious tart truly had some high hopes for herself and her attempts to seduce a man who continually rejected her and was repulsed by her, were just pathetic. Therefore Rupert has a big problem of his own by trying avert any future scandal that his stepmama/former lover would inevitably cause.
Rupert's first meeting with Pandora is quite dramatic because he manages to save her from a wannabe rapist/stalker. The young man thought that Pandora, being a widowed duchess with a scandalous reputation, would be willing to open her legs for him. Although Rupert saves her, his opinion of her is very low because he also believes all the untrue rubbish that everyone is saying about her. He escorts her home and is shocked to find her living in a modest town house. Pandora's dead hubby was not as generous in his will as Rupert's dumbass father had been to the witchy whore stepmama. Anyway Rupert finds himself paying a lot of attention to Pandora because he is lusting after her 24/7 and wants her to be his mistress. He keeps turning up at her home uninvited and is not deterred by her many rejections of his advances. This is so typical of a Carole Mortimer hero. Pandora is so fed up of Rupert's attentions that she decides to sell her town house and move to a small cottage in the country. She sets her plans in motion but more trouble erupts for her because someone is trying to kill her. On one occasion the wannabe killer sets fire to her bedroom and destroys a lot of her property.
Rupert installs himself as her savior. Almost against his will he finds himself wanting to protect her and save her from the unknown attacker. Things continue to heat up between Rupert and Pandora until a point is reached where Rupert literally drags her to his town house because he is scared that she will indeed be killed unless she is in a safe environment. The witchy whore stepmama is almost insane with jealousy and hatred when Rupert arrives home with Pandora in his arms. She starts to insult Pandora and call her names. I found this very funny because it was coming from a woman who had been little more than a whore herself but I digress. Rupert manages to convince Pandora that the solution to both of their problems is for them to marry each other. The marriage will restore her ruined reputation and it will stop the witchy whore stepmama from trying to trap him into an unwanted wedding. The stepmama is appalled and almost in tears because she realizes that she has lost. She threatens to spread all sort of nasty rumours about Pandora but Rupert has finally had it with her and tells her to get the F out of the town house and to stop following him around like a bitch in heat.
The marriage takes place and the insecure Pandora is still thinking that Rupert has a tendre for the stepmama. Their animosity brews for a while but Rupert is shocked to discover that Pandora is virgin. Eventually he learns about her gay late husband and this surprised him since the late hubby had been a handsome man who had never dressed or acted like a "dandy". Rupert and Pandora's relationship progresses slowly with each starting to fall in love with the other but there's still the mystery of her wannabe killer/stalker to solve. Soon the villain is revealed to be the last person that Pandora would have expected. He's her late hubby's lawyer and even I am shocked because this guy had always been so considerate and sweet towards to Pandora. Rupert manages to come to his wife's aid once again and the villain is busted and sent away with his tail between his legs. Rupert has really been Pandora's own special hero throughout this novel.
This wasn't the best regency historical I've ever read but I did find it quite absorbing at times. Rupert came across more like a besotted swain rather than a cynical rake and Pandora never gave in to him too easily. I also admired Pandora for keeping quiet about the real reason for her dead hubby's duel; she had felt that the other man's widow and his 2 kids would be publicly humiliated if everyone knew that he had been bi-sexual. That was a bit too much self sacrificial martyrdom for Pandora to take onto herself, in my opinion. Maybe I'm too selfish but I didn't see why her reputation should have been dragged through the mud just to protect these people.
January 22, 2013
açıkçası kitap beklediğim çok üzerindeydi , konu bilindik olsa da karakterler inanılmaz canlı sanırım bunda yazarın deneyimli olmasının payı büyük. benim kitapla tek sıkıntım çok kısa olmasıydı bütün olaylar son 50 sayfada oluyor hatta daha beteri tüm kitap anlatılan gizemli olay tek satırdı son buluyor sanki yazar üşenmişde sonunu hızlı hızlı "amaan bu da böyle" diye yazmış gibi eğer bir yüz sayfa kadar daha yaysaydı sonları kitap gerçekten çok güzel olucaktı. Ama bu serinin diğer kitaplarını okumayacapım anlamına glmiyor zira dediğim gibi karakterler çok heycanlı bu yüzden diğerlerini de merakla okuyacağım çünkü hikayelerini merak ediyorum.
May 8, 2013
3.5 Stars While reading, I was reminded of the line "The lady doth protest too much" from Hamlet. And in this story, she does.
The first meeting between Pandora Maybury, the scandalous dowager Duchess of Wyndwood, and Rupert Stirling, the "Devil" Duke of Stratton, involved Rupert manhandling a guy who tried to accost Pandora at a party. Rupert goes out of his way to ensure Pandora did not suffer lingering effects of this event, and quickly instills himself into her life. He used some high-handed methods to get closer to Pandora, all the while falling for her. Adding on the complication of mysterious attacks on Pandora's room and Rupert has made it his business to protect her. The entire time, they argued endlessly and indignantly over trivial matters, their speech and thoughts incorporating exclamation marks ad nauseam.
The plot and background set up wasn't bad, as the story involved around Rupert and Pandora both eschewing the ton's vicious gossips of Rupert being a "Devil"- the reason for the nickname never clearly explained, and Pandora for supposedly inciting a duel between her husband and her lover which led to both their deaths. The characters, though, lacked a great deal of depth. For all that Rupert keeps praising Pandora's intelligence, kind heart, and compassion, she rarely shows it in the story. Pandora comes off as an overly stubborn woman who keeps protesting Rupert's actions and yet continually lands herself in situations needing his help. I tried, but couldn't see much of her virtues as described by Rupert.
Rupert, on the other hand, was quite an un-wicked hero. He doesn't demean Pandora's character by proposing a lowering arrangement, nor do his actions, high-handed as they are, involve any malicious purpose. He is all good will and trying to gain Pandora's trust, which Pandora does not reciprocate until near the end of the novel.
I was disappointed with the resolution of the mysteries in this novel. It occurred too fast, and without the input from the main characters. It would have been better for Rupert to have caught the mysterious perpetrator instead of having that identity be revealed in last few pages, without any real action.
Given the book's length, this makes for a quick and enjoyable afternoon read, once you get passed the sheer amount of exclamation marks.
The first meeting between Pandora Maybury, the scandalous dowager Duchess of Wyndwood, and Rupert Stirling, the "Devil" Duke of Stratton, involved Rupert manhandling a guy who tried to accost Pandora at a party. Rupert goes out of his way to ensure Pandora did not suffer lingering effects of this event, and quickly instills himself into her life. He used some high-handed methods to get closer to Pandora, all the while falling for her. Adding on the complication of mysterious attacks on Pandora's room and Rupert has made it his business to protect her. The entire time, they argued endlessly and indignantly over trivial matters, their speech and thoughts incorporating exclamation marks ad nauseam.
The plot and background set up wasn't bad, as the story involved around Rupert and Pandora both eschewing the ton's vicious gossips of Rupert being a "Devil"- the reason for the nickname never clearly explained, and Pandora for supposedly inciting a duel between her husband and her lover which led to both their deaths. The characters, though, lacked a great deal of depth. For all that Rupert keeps praising Pandora's intelligence, kind heart, and compassion, she rarely shows it in the story. Pandora comes off as an overly stubborn woman who keeps protesting Rupert's actions and yet continually lands herself in situations needing his help. I tried, but couldn't see much of her virtues as described by Rupert.
Rupert, on the other hand, was quite an un-wicked hero. He doesn't demean Pandora's character by proposing a lowering arrangement, nor do his actions, high-handed as they are, involve any malicious purpose. He is all good will and trying to gain Pandora's trust, which Pandora does not reciprocate until near the end of the novel.
I was disappointed with the resolution of the mysteries in this novel. It occurred too fast, and without the input from the main characters. It would have been better for Rupert to have caught the mysterious perpetrator instead of having that identity be revealed in last few pages, without any real action.
Given the book's length, this makes for a quick and enjoyable afternoon read, once you get passed the sheer amount of exclamation marks.
July 21, 2019
This started off as a cute book but some issues marred my enjoyment and brought this down into average territory.
The premise of the book with a “Devil” duke and a widowed Duchess promised more spice than this book actually delivered. This could be because the HQ historical format keeps things in the PG territory by design but something about this book felt bland. There is not much wickedness of display here at all.
The hero was a little too overbearing; so much so that he became a caricature. He had a habit of not letting the heroine speak got so prevalent that he came across as rude not dominant. It was the same tick used constantly by the author instead of mixing up the characters’ behaviours. Our heroine too got angry and then apologies immediately as she was too tender hearted. None of this is a problem except for the predictability of every encounter between the two.
In the end - two stars for a predictable book which hits the checklist promised in the blurb but doesn’t elevate itself.
The premise of the book with a “Devil” duke and a widowed Duchess promised more spice than this book actually delivered. This could be because the HQ historical format keeps things in the PG territory by design but something about this book felt bland. There is not much wickedness of display here at all.
The hero was a little too overbearing; so much so that he became a caricature. He had a habit of not letting the heroine speak got so prevalent that he came across as rude not dominant. It was the same tick used constantly by the author instead of mixing up the characters’ behaviours. Our heroine too got angry and then apologies immediately as she was too tender hearted. None of this is a problem except for the predictability of every encounter between the two.
In the end - two stars for a predictable book which hits the checklist promised in the blurb but doesn’t elevate itself.
January 2, 2015
Very good book. I really liked both Pandora and Rupert. Pandora's husband was killed in a duel the year before and she was blamed for it. This has set her up to be treated badly by men of the ton. Rupert saves her from an attack and then appears to be pursuing her for himself. She is very wary about trusting Rupert. I liked the way that she stood up for herself when she wanted to. It is also apparent that she is a very kind person at heart, who watches out for the people she cares about. I loved Rupert. He seemed very arrogant at first, especially when Pandora overheard him talking to his friend. I loved the way he came to Pandora's rescue and then how he took care of her and got her home. I loved his protectiveness and the way he was so fascinated by her. He was surprised by the depth of his feelings for her, beyond just the attraction. I loved the way they would be getting along just fine, then arguing, then giving in to passion. My favorite part of the book was the confrontation with Rupert's stepmother - Pandora was fantastic! I also enjoyed the mystery of the break-ins at her house and the revealing of the villain.
November 10, 2013
I'm sitting here trying to figure out how many days they knew each other before their marriage of convenience. I think it was...3 or 4. Then it was basically 24 hours before they declared their undying love for each other....WOW. deep love there y'all. Though at least this book had a somewhat legit reason that she could still be his virgin bride. Though I think the author felt a little uneasy after the fact, afraid that she might have vilified gay people unintentionally, so interjected an "But I'm totes okay with gay people" thought process by the hero. The writing wasn't horrible, and overall I liked the characterization and dialogue. I knocked off a star for the timeline. I mean...I'm used to some ridiculous love at first sight stories, but this one was just a little too quick for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2017
Lyssnade på den på svenska. Härlig historisk romance. 😊
March 29, 2018
3 stelline e mezzo
May 18, 2022
This first book in the series tells a complete story with no obvious loose ends. I'm not sure how the rest of the series ties in, but I can't see any indications here that this book can't stand alone.
The tone of this book is that of two people constantly sparring with one another resulting in a lot of argument and disagreement. The hints that affection will develop is mostly physical, but there is some mutual respect which develops fairly quickly.
The secrets in both characters seem to be teased out more than hinted and revealed. I thought both characters held onto misconceptions, about the other's behavior as far as their reputations went, a little too long. Rupert would acknowledge the woman he was getting to know was nothing like her reputation and then he would mentally castigate her for her affairs. I would think the alternative would occur to him. Likewise, Pandora would repeat accusations from his reputation despite the fact he gave a plausible explanation. I had a hard time accepting her reaction to the event on her wedding night.
I expected Pandora's secret to come out in a different way.
Pandora's change of heart seemed abrupt because it was displayed in enthusiastic participation rather than passive acceptance.
Mature themes: there is some mildly to moderately explicit sex. There is physical violence with mortal implications. Near the beginning a woman is sexually assaulted and her clothes ripped.
The tone of this book is that of two people constantly sparring with one another resulting in a lot of argument and disagreement. The hints that affection will develop is mostly physical, but there is some mutual respect which develops fairly quickly.
The secrets in both characters seem to be teased out more than hinted and revealed. I thought both characters held onto misconceptions, about the other's behavior as far as their reputations went, a little too long. Rupert would acknowledge the woman he was getting to know was nothing like her reputation and then he would mentally castigate her for her affairs. I would think the alternative would occur to him. Likewise, Pandora would repeat accusations from his reputation despite the fact he gave a plausible explanation. I had a hard time accepting her reaction to the event on her wedding night.
I expected Pandora's secret to come out in a different way.
Pandora's change of heart seemed abrupt because it was displayed in enthusiastic participation rather than passive acceptance.
Mature themes: there is some mildly to moderately explicit sex. There is physical violence with mortal implications. Near the beginning a woman is sexually assaulted and her clothes ripped.
October 12, 2024
This book was very intriguing. Honestly what kept me engaged for most of it was wanting to know her secret and his secret and who was breaking into her home. Their banter was fun and I enjoyed how she stood her ground against him and telling him he was ridiculous on multiple occasions. She even told him off for being high handed a few times. Definitely a strong female main character without being physically strong or violent. The spiciness of this book wasn't as much as my usual reads, the main characters never actually have sex but they do pleasure each other. I was a little disappointed to miss out on them actually consumating their relationship fully but it was very well described and written in my opinion.
March 26, 2019
What a plotless, poorly written disapointment of a book. No intriguing storyline, no engaging characters, no historical backdrop, no witty banter, no interesting conversation. Will not be rrading anything else by this author.
January 2, 2021
poteva essere migliore...il finale in 3 pagine non è dei migliori ....
July 28, 2019
3 jovens duquesas viúvas e muitos segredos
Muito gostoso esse romance da Carole Mortimer. Três duquesas jovens que, depois de enviuvarem ao mesmo tempo, constróem uma sólida amizade. Em seu retorno a sociedade, após o ano de luto, uma delas propõe que elas arrumem amantes.
Mas nem todas, ou todas, se sentiriam bem com isso.
Essa conversa é o sinal de partida para a aventura das 3 amigas começando por Pandora. O Marquês de Devlin, ou Devil como é conhecido, seria seu alvo, o que ela evita de todas as formas.
Mas o destino tem outros planos... e ele definitivamente teve que abrir a caixa de Pandora e descobrir seu segredo....muito gostoso. Daqueles romances para se ler entre as leituras, mas de um nivel melhor que a maioria.
Recomendado.
Muito gostoso esse romance da Carole Mortimer. Três duquesas jovens que, depois de enviuvarem ao mesmo tempo, constróem uma sólida amizade. Em seu retorno a sociedade, após o ano de luto, uma delas propõe que elas arrumem amantes.
Mas nem todas, ou todas, se sentiriam bem com isso.
Essa conversa é o sinal de partida para a aventura das 3 amigas começando por Pandora. O Marquês de Devlin, ou Devil como é conhecido, seria seu alvo, o que ela evita de todas as formas.
Mas o destino tem outros planos... e ele definitivamente teve que abrir a caixa de Pandora e descobrir seu segredo....muito gostoso. Daqueles romances para se ler entre as leituras, mas de um nivel melhor que a maioria.
Recomendado.
October 17, 2012
This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...
I REALLY loved this book. It was fantastic, full of delicious romance, suspense, danger, mystery, and secrets. What's not to love?
I really liked Pandora. She was an admirable heroine. Though she has had a difficult past, she has risen from it stronger. And she is enormously kind, as her actions involving her scandal reveal. She could be prickly sometimes, though I didn't mind. She had every reason to be wary. Someone had been breaking into her house for something and she didn't know who it was and what that person wanted. That would put anyone on edge. But, she toughed it all out. She really was a remarkable heroine.
Rupert was so adorable. He was so charming, it took me no time at all to adore him. Our first impression of him isn't the best, as he's trash-talking Pandora at the time. But he makes up for it quickly. He was the perfect hero, so sweet and protective over Pandora. Their relationship was full of passion. They would be furiously arguing one minute, than on each other the next, sparks flying between them constantly. But there were also some sweeter moments that proved how in love the two of them were.
The plot was lovely. It had plenty of surprises and never a dull moment. The reveal of who was responsible for the break-ins was a huge surprise. I never saw that coming. And, of course, we had the perfect historical romance ending.
Some Like it Wicked was a wonderful book. To all who love historical romance, you will adore this book.
5/5
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for a copy!
I REALLY loved this book. It was fantastic, full of delicious romance, suspense, danger, mystery, and secrets. What's not to love?
I really liked Pandora. She was an admirable heroine. Though she has had a difficult past, she has risen from it stronger. And she is enormously kind, as her actions involving her scandal reveal. She could be prickly sometimes, though I didn't mind. She had every reason to be wary. Someone had been breaking into her house for something and she didn't know who it was and what that person wanted. That would put anyone on edge. But, she toughed it all out. She really was a remarkable heroine.
Rupert was so adorable. He was so charming, it took me no time at all to adore him. Our first impression of him isn't the best, as he's trash-talking Pandora at the time. But he makes up for it quickly. He was the perfect hero, so sweet and protective over Pandora. Their relationship was full of passion. They would be furiously arguing one minute, than on each other the next, sparks flying between them constantly. But there were also some sweeter moments that proved how in love the two of them were.
The plot was lovely. It had plenty of surprises and never a dull moment. The reveal of who was responsible for the break-ins was a huge surprise. I never saw that coming. And, of course, we had the perfect historical romance ending.
Some Like it Wicked was a wonderful book. To all who love historical romance, you will adore this book.
5/5
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for a copy!
December 15, 2012
This review will appear at http://romantichistoricallovers.wordp... on December 18, 2012.
Some Like it Wicked is the lovely tale of a woman who is so sweet and yet has been shunned by the ton. She bears this all and plans to leave polite society when Rupert Stirling decides he wants her in his life. He just barrels in and takes over, must to Pandora’s displeasure.
Rupert feels the need to protect Pandora. Every time he turns around, he’s rescuing her from some tragedy. Everything from unwanted attentions from unwanted suitors to a fire in her townhome. Rupert is there to keep her safe, but who will protect her from him?
Rumors are flying through polite society about Pandora. Polite society is not so polite. They are digging her past and making her life miserable. Rupert has the same problem. Rumors are flying about him, however, since he’s a man, it’s not a big deal. His problem is much bigger and there’s only one solution to his problem. He’s hoping Pandora will solve his problem. But as many people know, things are not as they seem.
I loved watching these two in action. The tension between them is thick and she doesn’t know what to think. Rupert is stubborn and used to getting his way. However, Pandora doesn’t just roll over and let him do whatever he thinks is best. She argues and fights with him the entire time. Rupert isn’t used to people saying no to him. He finds Pandora refreshing, an “original”. She intrigues him.
Will Rupert get his way or will Pandora retreat from society and move to the country?
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley
Some Like it Wicked is the lovely tale of a woman who is so sweet and yet has been shunned by the ton. She bears this all and plans to leave polite society when Rupert Stirling decides he wants her in his life. He just barrels in and takes over, must to Pandora’s displeasure.
Rupert feels the need to protect Pandora. Every time he turns around, he’s rescuing her from some tragedy. Everything from unwanted attentions from unwanted suitors to a fire in her townhome. Rupert is there to keep her safe, but who will protect her from him?
Rumors are flying through polite society about Pandora. Polite society is not so polite. They are digging her past and making her life miserable. Rupert has the same problem. Rumors are flying about him, however, since he’s a man, it’s not a big deal. His problem is much bigger and there’s only one solution to his problem. He’s hoping Pandora will solve his problem. But as many people know, things are not as they seem.
I loved watching these two in action. The tension between them is thick and she doesn’t know what to think. Rupert is stubborn and used to getting his way. However, Pandora doesn’t just roll over and let him do whatever he thinks is best. She argues and fights with him the entire time. Rupert isn’t used to people saying no to him. He finds Pandora refreshing, an “original”. She intrigues him.
Will Rupert get his way or will Pandora retreat from society and move to the country?
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley
February 4, 2013
This review is from my personal blog rabidgummibear.wordpress.com
From my reviews you can probably gather I'm not big on historic novels and not well versed in Harlequin books either. In attempts to broaden my range of readings though I have been adding them to my to read lists and this is one that does not disappoint. Especially having really enjoyed other historical novels like Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake along with Desperate Duchesses.
Some Like It Wicked is about Pandora Maybury a widow recently finished with her year of grieving caught up in some terrible gossip surrounding her dead husbands death. This gossip leads to some interesting situations where our handsome Rupert Stirling swoops in to save the day.
The book is a quick read and I really liked that about it. It was also very fun and eventful. Being shorter it seems to lack the whole dry spot or spot of plain boring. I liked the dynamics between Rupert and Pandora they were very playful and often times amusing. I also enjoyed how the author worked in the virgin widow to the story and why. It was something that really worked well into the story.
The bad. Pandora at best is flighty and annoying, but sometimes she really does have great characteristics. Stirling is your typical overbearing male, but in some ways it's almost mandatory because Pandora is so hopeless and nearly refuses all help even when it really should be sought out.
Overall 3/5 stars not worth the cash yet, but when the kindle edition is under 3.99 I would recommend it. It just wasn't nearly as good as I expected it to be from the blurb.
From my reviews you can probably gather I'm not big on historic novels and not well versed in Harlequin books either. In attempts to broaden my range of readings though I have been adding them to my to read lists and this is one that does not disappoint. Especially having really enjoyed other historical novels like Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake along with Desperate Duchesses.
Some Like It Wicked is about Pandora Maybury a widow recently finished with her year of grieving caught up in some terrible gossip surrounding her dead husbands death. This gossip leads to some interesting situations where our handsome Rupert Stirling swoops in to save the day.
The book is a quick read and I really liked that about it. It was also very fun and eventful. Being shorter it seems to lack the whole dry spot or spot of plain boring. I liked the dynamics between Rupert and Pandora they were very playful and often times amusing. I also enjoyed how the author worked in the virgin widow to the story and why. It was something that really worked well into the story.
The bad. Pandora at best is flighty and annoying, but sometimes she really does have great characteristics. Stirling is your typical overbearing male, but in some ways it's almost mandatory because Pandora is so hopeless and nearly refuses all help even when it really should be sought out.
Overall 3/5 stars not worth the cash yet, but when the kindle edition is under 3.99 I would recommend it. It just wasn't nearly as good as I expected it to be from the blurb.
May 6, 2014
Orjinal Adı : Some Like İt Wicked
Edisyon Adı : Haylaz Asilzade
Yazar Adı : Carole Mortimer
Goodreads Puanı :5/3,54
Puanım : 5/4
İki kitaplık bir serinin ilk kitabı Haylaz Asilzade..
Okurken beklentilerimi en aza indirgemiştim. Ama beklentimin çok üstünde bir kitap çıktığını söylemeliyim..
Kurgu yönünden duygu yönünden oldukça güzel bir romandı. Carol Mortimer Harlequin yazarlarının içinde en sevdiğim yazarlardandır. Bunun doğruluğunu ispatlar bir romandı.
Romanın ana fikri her ey göründüğü gibi değildir..
Gerçekten Pandora ve Rupert de sevdim. Pandora'nın kocası bir düello sonucu öldürülmüştü ve bu olay yüzünden suçlanmaktadır.Bu yüzden de sosyete de gözden düşmesi sonucu erkekler tarafından hor görüldüğü gibi gizlice de yatağa atılmak istenmektedir. İşte bu durum yüzden cemiyet toplantılarına katılmak istememektedir. Ama bu son katıldığı toplantıya onun gibi dul kalan Clayborne Düşesi Sophia ve Woollerton Düşesi Genevieve ısrarı üzerine katılmıştır..
Fakat katıldığı son toplantıda bu tip erkeklerden birinin saldırısından onu Stratton Dükü Rupert Stirling tarafında
n kurtarılır..
Rupert ve Pandora'nın hikayesi tam da burada başlar..ikisinin de geçmişteki ilişkilerinden dolayı toplum tarafından etiketlenmiş kişilerdendir..Olduklarından çok farklı tanınmaktadırlar.
Çok severek okuduğum bir romandı.Barbara Cartland esintilerini hissettiğim bir hikaye idi..Oldukça güzel bir historical idi. Yazarın anlatımı güzel ve akıcı idi.Tavsiye ederim.
Daring Duchesses
Some Like It Wicked (2012)
Some Like to Shock (2012)
http://hulyami.blogspot.com.tr/2014/0...
Edisyon Adı : Haylaz Asilzade
Yazar Adı : Carole Mortimer
Goodreads Puanı :5/3,54
Puanım : 5/4
İki kitaplık bir serinin ilk kitabı Haylaz Asilzade..
Okurken beklentilerimi en aza indirgemiştim. Ama beklentimin çok üstünde bir kitap çıktığını söylemeliyim..
Kurgu yönünden duygu yönünden oldukça güzel bir romandı. Carol Mortimer Harlequin yazarlarının içinde en sevdiğim yazarlardandır. Bunun doğruluğunu ispatlar bir romandı.
Romanın ana fikri her ey göründüğü gibi değildir..
Gerçekten Pandora ve Rupert de sevdim. Pandora'nın kocası bir düello sonucu öldürülmüştü ve bu olay yüzünden suçlanmaktadır.Bu yüzden de sosyete de gözden düşmesi sonucu erkekler tarafından hor görüldüğü gibi gizlice de yatağa atılmak istenmektedir. İşte bu durum yüzden cemiyet toplantılarına katılmak istememektedir. Ama bu son katıldığı toplantıya onun gibi dul kalan Clayborne Düşesi Sophia ve Woollerton Düşesi Genevieve ısrarı üzerine katılmıştır..
Fakat katıldığı son toplantıda bu tip erkeklerden birinin saldırısından onu Stratton Dükü Rupert Stirling tarafında
n kurtarılır..
Rupert ve Pandora'nın hikayesi tam da burada başlar..ikisinin de geçmişteki ilişkilerinden dolayı toplum tarafından etiketlenmiş kişilerdendir..Olduklarından çok farklı tanınmaktadırlar.
Çok severek okuduğum bir romandı.Barbara Cartland esintilerini hissettiğim bir hikaye idi..Oldukça güzel bir historical idi. Yazarın anlatımı güzel ve akıcı idi.Tavsiye ederim.
Daring Duchesses
Some Like It Wicked (2012)
Some Like to Shock (2012)
http://hulyami.blogspot.com.tr/2014/0...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2013
Review by Bebe at Reading Until I Fall Asleep
Some Like it Wicked is a deliciously scandalous book about two well known people in the London ton, Pandora Maybury (widow of Barnaby Maybury) and Rupert Stirling (Duke of Stratton and known to have his way with the ladies). The two are thrown together at a ball when Rupert rescues Miss Pandora from a very “handsy” Lord. From that moment on, the two are inseparable. At each other’s throats most of the time, but nonetheless inseparable. Both being the topic of disreputable conversation among their peers, the two of them spend the whole book trying to decide which are fact and which are fiction, before sealing their HEA fate.
This book was just so-so for me. I enjoyed the plot immensely. Ms. Mortimer’s story kept me hooked from beginning to end, on the edge of my seat at times waiting to find out whodunit or if there was any truth behind the rumors. But there were elements of this book that just lacked enthusiasm for me. Besides my issues, I really did enjoy the story. There were moments where I was surprised and moments that made me mad, getting me fully involved in the plot. It had great depth and kept me reading, which is why I gave Some Like it Wicked three hearts.
Bebe’s Rating: ♥♥♥ – I took a catnap between chapters
Some Like it Wicked is a deliciously scandalous book about two well known people in the London ton, Pandora Maybury (widow of Barnaby Maybury) and Rupert Stirling (Duke of Stratton and known to have his way with the ladies). The two are thrown together at a ball when Rupert rescues Miss Pandora from a very “handsy” Lord. From that moment on, the two are inseparable. At each other’s throats most of the time, but nonetheless inseparable. Both being the topic of disreputable conversation among their peers, the two of them spend the whole book trying to decide which are fact and which are fiction, before sealing their HEA fate.
This book was just so-so for me. I enjoyed the plot immensely. Ms. Mortimer’s story kept me hooked from beginning to end, on the edge of my seat at times waiting to find out whodunit or if there was any truth behind the rumors. But there were elements of this book that just lacked enthusiasm for me. Besides my issues, I really did enjoy the story. There were moments where I was surprised and moments that made me mad, getting me fully involved in the plot. It had great depth and kept me reading, which is why I gave Some Like it Wicked three hearts.
Bebe’s Rating: ♥♥♥ – I took a catnap between chapters
May 2, 2013
Author: Carole Mortimer
Published by: Harlequin
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Series: Daring Duchesses # 1
Rating: 4
Review:
"Some Like It Wicked" by Carole Mortimer was a wonderful read that was of a historical romance. You will find the plot nicely done where you will find the story involved around "Rupert and Pandora both eschewing the ton's vicious gossips of Rupert being a "Devil"- the reason for the nickname never clearly explained, and Pandora for supposedly inciting a duel between her husband
and her lover which led to both their deaths." There will be lots of surprises that will keep you turning the pages fulled with these two: Rupert and Pandora. I found "Some Like It Wicked" was rather entertaining and a easy read and nice romance between this hero and heroine... like how these two were playful and even amusing at times. What are the secrets that these two are keeping from each other? Who was responsible for Pandora's break ins? This and many other questions will be answered in the good read.
If you are interested in a historical romance you have come to the right place for "Some Like It Wicked" will give it to you and I would recommend this novel as a good read.
Published by: Harlequin
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Series: Daring Duchesses # 1
Rating: 4
Review:
"Some Like It Wicked" by Carole Mortimer was a wonderful read that was of a historical romance. You will find the plot nicely done where you will find the story involved around "Rupert and Pandora both eschewing the ton's vicious gossips of Rupert being a "Devil"- the reason for the nickname never clearly explained, and Pandora for supposedly inciting a duel between her husband
and her lover which led to both their deaths." There will be lots of surprises that will keep you turning the pages fulled with these two: Rupert and Pandora. I found "Some Like It Wicked" was rather entertaining and a easy read and nice romance between this hero and heroine... like how these two were playful and even amusing at times. What are the secrets that these two are keeping from each other? Who was responsible for Pandora's break ins? This and many other questions will be answered in the good read.
If you are interested in a historical romance you have come to the right place for "Some Like It Wicked" will give it to you and I would recommend this novel as a good read.
October 6, 2012
Loved the cover, loved the hero, even loved the basic plot... I just really, really disliked Pandora. I can't really put my finger on it, either, as to what it was about her that I disliked. Was it her perfect body and decided lack of missishness when it came to lovemaking, despite her inexperience? Her willingness to employ unemployable servants, or to take the social fall in order to protect an innocent family? I don't know. I just know that she just didn't do it for me, and it's hard to love a book when you really dislike the heroine.
The writing style was great, and the other characters fascinating (even the high-strung maid), and I even enjoyed the angst that resulted from much of Pandora's dealings with Rupert.
And yet.
There was still something missing -- something that I can only chalk up to my dislike of the heroine.
Luckily for me, I know that I enjoy other books by this author, and so I'm not completely put off by this story. Other readers may in fact love Pandora for the very reasons that she grates on my nerves, but for me, this was only a 3/5
The writing style was great, and the other characters fascinating (even the high-strung maid), and I even enjoyed the angst that resulted from much of Pandora's dealings with Rupert.
And yet.
There was still something missing -- something that I can only chalk up to my dislike of the heroine.
Luckily for me, I know that I enjoy other books by this author, and so I'm not completely put off by this story. Other readers may in fact love Pandora for the very reasons that she grates on my nerves, but for me, this was only a 3/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2016
Série: Duquesas Ousadas 01 - Cortejo Com Malícia - Carole Mortimer
Título original: Some Like It Wicked
Título: Cortejo Com Malícia
Autor: Carole Mortimer
Tradução: Celina Romeu
Série: Duquesas Ousadas 01
Editora: Harlequin
Ano: 2013
Resenha:
História leve e romântica, apesar de discutir assuntos polêmicos como adultério, homossexualismo, traição e principalmente a hipocrisia da sociedade londrina do século XIX. Não há duvida que é uma narrativa cativante, cheia de ternura e de sentimentos profundos.
Lorde Rupert Stirling, oitavo duque de Stratton, mas é conhecido pela sociedade como Devil. Um homem convencido, autoritário, lindo, másculo, divertido e extremamente decidido. Tanto que na noite que conhece Pandora Maybury, a duquesa viúva de Wyndwood, Devil decide que vai se casar com moça, mesmo sem conhecê-la formalmente e ter trocado apenas poucas palavras com a duquesa, ele está decidido...
Quer ler a resenha completa e muito mais, visite o blog Momentos da Fogui:
site: http://foguiii.blogspot.com.br/2016/0...
Título original: Some Like It Wicked
Título: Cortejo Com Malícia
Autor: Carole Mortimer
Tradução: Celina Romeu
Série: Duquesas Ousadas 01
Editora: Harlequin
Ano: 2013
Resenha:
História leve e romântica, apesar de discutir assuntos polêmicos como adultério, homossexualismo, traição e principalmente a hipocrisia da sociedade londrina do século XIX. Não há duvida que é uma narrativa cativante, cheia de ternura e de sentimentos profundos.
Lorde Rupert Stirling, oitavo duque de Stratton, mas é conhecido pela sociedade como Devil. Um homem convencido, autoritário, lindo, másculo, divertido e extremamente decidido. Tanto que na noite que conhece Pandora Maybury, a duquesa viúva de Wyndwood, Devil decide que vai se casar com moça, mesmo sem conhecê-la formalmente e ter trocado apenas poucas palavras com a duquesa, ele está decidido...
Quer ler a resenha completa e muito mais, visite o blog Momentos da Fogui:
site: http://foguiii.blogspot.com.br/2016/0...
October 20, 2012
Pandora is a widow after a nasty duel between her husband and another gentleman a year ago. She has let the TON think the worst in her than to smear her deceased husband good name. She was married only by name not knowing the desires that a marriage should have.
Pandora decides to come out of widowhood during Lady Sophia’s ball. At the ball, Pandora goes outside for some fresh air and peace of mind. Only to have her peace of mind is quickly disturbed by Lord Sugdon’s unwanted advances and he tries to ravish her. Rupert, known as the Devil by nature and by name, comes to the aid and rescues Pandora.
There is more to this story than meets the eye.
This may be a part of series but it could be read as standalone. The book is a historical romance and was excellently written and easy to enjoy read with HEA ending.
Pandora decides to come out of widowhood during Lady Sophia’s ball. At the ball, Pandora goes outside for some fresh air and peace of mind. Only to have her peace of mind is quickly disturbed by Lord Sugdon’s unwanted advances and he tries to ravish her. Rupert, known as the Devil by nature and by name, comes to the aid and rescues Pandora.
There is more to this story than meets the eye.
This may be a part of series but it could be read as standalone. The book is a historical romance and was excellently written and easy to enjoy read with HEA ending.
October 13, 2014
I will not read another regency, will not read another - oh look, that looks good!
Of course, this authour rarely has anything I don't love, it is kind of like my comfort food for romance. That being said, while I liked and embraced the book, it was a little too slow moving for my liking overall. It seemed as though new things happened, but both characters continued to react in the same way. They didn't really grow until the last 2 chapters
That being said, it was entertaining and I enjoyed it. I am glad things worked out for them, because I really did like both of these characters and they deserved some happiness!
Of course, this authour rarely has anything I don't love, it is kind of like my comfort food for romance. That being said, while I liked and embraced the book, it was a little too slow moving for my liking overall. It seemed as though new things happened, but both characters continued to react in the same way. They didn't really grow until the last 2 chapters
That being said, it was entertaining and I enjoyed it. I am glad things worked out for them, because I really did like both of these characters and they deserved some happiness!
June 19, 2015
I've read a lot of Carole Mortimer over the years, and this is middle of the road for her.
I liked both characters in the beginning, but it all got a bit soppy right at the end with far too many "my loves" and Rupert's character changes a good deal - too much of a good deal.
He stll protects Pandora, good. And I liked that he took care of her staff. I also very much appreciated that they were honest with each other, and Pandora quickly apologized when she mistakenly assumed where he'd gone.
I liked both characters in the beginning, but it all got a bit soppy right at the end with far too many "my loves" and Rupert's character changes a good deal - too much of a good deal.
He stll protects Pandora, good. And I liked that he took care of her staff. I also very much appreciated that they were honest with each other, and Pandora quickly apologized when she mistakenly assumed where he'd gone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2016
Hiç hesapta yokken okumaya başladığım ve hoşuma giden bir kitaptı. Her şey çok güzeldi; kurgu, karakterler vs. Vakti olanların ve türü sevenlerin okumaktan zevk alacağı bir kitap diye düşünüyorum.
Hoşuma gitmeyen tek bir yönü vardı oda kitabın uzunluğuydu. Cidden kısaydı, olaylar biraz hızlı ilerledi. Özellikle eve giren kişinin yakalandığı anlar, Pandora'nın avukatla yüzleşmesini okumak iyi olurdu.
Hoşuma gitmeyen tek bir yönü vardı oda kitabın uzunluğuydu. Cidden kısaydı, olaylar biraz hızlı ilerledi. Özellikle eve giren kişinin yakalandığı anlar, Pandora'nın avukatla yüzleşmesini okumak iyi olurdu.
December 24, 2012
3.5*
The blurb is very misleading... I liked neither characters, Pandora was too naive and jumped to conclusions and Rupert aka Devil walked all over her.
On another note I'll read the last book, I am hoping it'll be better.
The blurb is very misleading... I liked neither characters, Pandora was too naive and jumped to conclusions and Rupert aka Devil walked all over her.
On another note I'll read the last book, I am hoping it'll be better.
January 26, 2014
I had a hard time liking Pandora. I loved the story plot a lot. it took me longer to read this book than usual. I believe it is because I didn't have a personal attachment to Pandora and just wasn't in her corner enough.
October 1, 2012
Very nice and well written, but I'd have read three or four pages more....
THANKS TO NETGALLEY ADN HARLEQUIN FOR THE PREVIEW
THANKS TO NETGALLEY ADN HARLEQUIN FOR THE PREVIEW
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November 2, 2012Miniseries: Daring Duchesses
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