It's Raining Rakes in April

The Rake Review #4

by Annabelle Anders

An undercover duke and a clumsy, but ambitious, debutanteEveryone knows debutantes will do anything to marry a duke, which is precisely why this season, the Duke of Ridgefield is going undercover as yet another notorious rake—the mysterious Mr. Pope. As the eldest of seven sisters, Miss Julia Rigsby has one task in life—marry well. The trouble is, she’s clueless when it comes to flirting. Might she learn a trick or two from one of London’s handsome, rakes? Mr. Pope, it seems, might make for a capable teacher, not to mention, easy on the eyes…Book 4 of The Rake Review--an exciting shared world where a new gossip sheet takes London by storm, raking the rakes of London over the coals...

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Novella, Romance, Regency, Amazon, Meet Cute

177 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2024

About the author

Married to the same man for over 25 years, I am a mother to three children and two Miniature Wiener dogs.

After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car. 

At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.

And then the energy market dropped off.

And then my dog died.

I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.

Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!

To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!

www.annabelleanders.com
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Reviews

[Sally Jask-eh · Rating 5 out of 5]

quick light hearted story, Henry and Julia have a genuine affection from the beginning. Minimal angst and plenty of positive emotional interaction between the main characters. Not as steamy as mad march but still a satisfying read.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Henry Pope returns to London after almost seven years in disguise until he can legally take his place as the Duke of Ridgefield. Julia Rigsby isn't having a very successful season. Rescued by Henry when she falls into the Serpentine, she asks for his help to learn how to flirt to attract a suitor. He consents, but ends up rescuing her again. This time it's a life and death situation and they realize they aren't interested in anyone, but each other. Will Julia accept Henry as the duke? Great ending!
Mild descriptive sex.

[Karmen O · Rating 4 out of 5]

"It's Raining Rakes in April" by Annabelle Anders, book four of The Rake Review author collaboration
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Cover: 5/5 (look at them breeches)
Story: 4/5
Steam: 🔥 (+kissing)
Ending: HEA
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Stand Alone or Series: Can be read as a stand alone but each book in series take place in the same "universe" via a gossip columnist.
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England, 1820
Rakish Secret Heir
Clumsy Foul-Mouthed Lady
Hidden Identity
Flirting Lessons
Husband Hunting
Difficult Family Ties
Large Family
Nearly Spinster
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I find great pleasure in Anders's writing style. Her storyline flowed well, was unexpected, and had great pacing. She is a descriptive writer without making the reader feel bogged down as her writing doesn't feel cluttered or clunky. She makes great use of page space in a novella, and I found "April" to be lighthearted and, at times, comedic. The humor Anders added to her story helped to break up some more complex themes. This read was a great reprieve from some of the heavy novels I have been reading lately.

Our hero, Henry, is an incredibly tender and likable MMC. It was refreshing to have a male lead who didn't wallow in the past and keep it from the woman of his dreams. I thought that Julia and Henry made a lovely couple, and I enjoyed seeing their story play out. I wish we could have seen more of their flirting lessons as this one-on-one time was a witty delight.

This title does provide some introduction to characters that a full series could be centered around. I look forward to seeing if another series springs forth from this novella.

As for steam, this title surprised me! The previous title I read by Anders was a clean romance, so I was expecting that going in. However, this title does have one steam scene that ended up making me laugh. She uses both explicit and alluded-to terms.
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Read as an ARC ebook.
Honest review left voluntarily.
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Content Warning (may contain spoilers):
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.
.
.
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Mention of de*th of parent
Mention of de*th of brother
Childbirth de*th
Mention of de*th of infant during birth
Ailing parent
Seriously infected wound

[girlwithhearteyes · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

This historical romance was giving teen movie vibes in the beginning, but by the end I was like “nawwww, these two!!!” The characters had great chemistry, and there was even a sickbed adjacent micro trope that I absolutely loved.

[Marguerite · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, 🌶️

At 157 pages, this novella was a really fun read. It had a touch of spice towards the end. Looking forward to other books by Annabelle Anderson.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Annabelle Anders is one of the authors on my "favorite authors" list. I find her to be a really good author with really good writing. She has great stories and good sex. I’ve read 48 of her books and have been reading her since 2018. This is a new series with different authors writing a new book each month.

I really enjoyed Julia and Henry's story. I liked the concept and the story idea. All the characters were well written. Just a cute, quick read.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Henry Pope returns to London after nearly seven years away. His mother has written a desperate plea for him to return. For all intents and purposes, the mysterious Mr Henry Pope is nothing more than an a penniless, albeit handsome rake. As the eldest of seven sisters, Miss Julia Rigsby has one task in life to marry well. The trouble is even though she’s twenty four she’s clueless when it comes to flirting. Might she learn a trick or two from the stranger who came to her aid when she slips into the Serpentine, Mr. Pope, it seems, is more than capable of teaching the ins and outs of courting, not to mention, easy on the eyes
A charming, delightful novella which I devoured in a sitting. I loved both Henry & Julia, the chemistry between them sizzled & they also saw each other. Hidden identities, a festering wound, a mother determined to do things her way all made this an engrossing read. I loved the revelations at the ball! A very well written romance which had laugh out loud moments as well as two lovely people falling in love
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like 3.75. I enjoyed this book it was a super quick read. I liked Julia, her almost swear words cracked me up. Henry was intrigued by her from the get go and I love that. Men should always fall first and harder.

The only thing, I think we found out some of Henry's inner motives a little late. His desire to be loved not for his title seemed to come out of no where. I also wish he had told her before the ball that he was the duke, I am glad though she wasn't upset that he was though (that would have been dumb)

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Julia is so clumsy, but that's what I really liked about her. She is ambitious, at least going for a Duke. She is the eldest, with six sisters. The Duke of Ridgefield goes undercover as Mr Pope and tries to help her along the way.
I really got into this story. A lovely read. 4☆

[Petra · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋

I’ve always loved this lady’s work, this is no exception, a brilliant start to a new series, full of passion and beautiful characters.

Henry is the heir to the Dukedom, but he’s been away for years , now he’s back but under a different name and waiting to be revealed in the proper process.
He’s strong of character, and deeply committed to a young lady who love’s falling in the Serpentine.

Julia is the oldest of 7 siblings all female.
She’s under the protection and influence of her Aunt, and even though she’s around 24 ish from my calculations, this is her debut year.

The two are sweet together and they ooze passion and love.
Beautifully written and detailed by Annabelle, this is going to be a stunning series.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[Jessica White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🪭.5
Plot as told through emojis:
📰🤦🏻‍♀️🧜🏻‍♀️💦🛟💁🏻‍♂️🧥🌧️👰🏻‍♀️❔🪭🤝🧺👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨⛲️👩‍👦🤧📚💤🦶🏻🤒🕵️💌⛪️🪡💥🛐💃😯🦩💍📰

There’s nothing like a low angst, Historical romance with charming leads to cleanse your palate. Henry and Julia were so fun to get to know and this story felt a bit like a Cinderella story to me. I love when a hero gives a heroine a nickname, and after Henry saves Julia from falling into a lake while attempting her flirting skills (not her finest moment), she becomes his “Little Mermaid”. Julia is definitely NOT gifted in the art of flirting, but desperately needs to seek a husband to help take care of her and her sisters. Seeing that Henry Pope might be her best bet at learning how to attract the right kind of male attention, the two enter into a partnership.

Julia was so naive and silly and it was fun watching her through Henry’s eyes.
A lot of this book revolves around being seen. Henry notices Julia when no other suitor pays her any attention. Meanwhile Julia notices Henry’s kindness and ability to make her feel comfortable learning how to use her womanly wiles, when the ton sees him as a scruffy rakish nobody. On more than one occasion, Henry asks Julia if she trusts him—trust being something difficult to ascertain given the way these two are separated socially. I loved that their story involved learning about one another prior to Henry’s identity being revealed, and when a hero only has eyes for the heroine, regardless of class and “duty”? Sign me up!

I have loved all of the books so far in The Rake Review and have loved reading new-to-me authors. The thread of the Brazen Belle linking each of these stories has been such a lovely touch. Annabelle Anders’ rakish Duke fit right in with this series and felt fresh with two likable MCs, a unique plot, and an intimate scene that will surely surprise you. You don’t want to sit on this one—pick it up rain or shine! I received an advanced copy from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Greta · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this sweet, quick, and entertaining secret identity romance. The adventurous heir to the Dukedom of Ridgefield has returned home but no one except his mother and sister are aware. Until he is confirmed by solicitors he must remain the poor, rake Mr. Henry Pope his Mother’s “nephew”.
Miss Julia Rigsby has an ailing father and is the eldest of seven sisters. She is on the hunt for a husband for the sake of her sisters well being. She is pretty, but clumsy, and not at all good at flirting. Therefore, the hunt for a husband is quite a challenge.
The two MCs strike up a bargain that he will teach her to flirt and she will mend his tattered coat. The novella has laughter, love, and a happily ever after. I think I would have enjoyed this story line even more as a full novel.
If you enjoy a romance you can read in a day with a few laughs, a bit of drama, and some sweetness with a little steam, pick it up today and enjoy an escape from reality! I was gifted an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adored this one! It was a fun quick read and I loved both main characters from the very start. And any book that has the hero in an absolute panic that he might lose the heroine after an injury, sickness etc... SWOON.

•Class Difference
•Novella length
•Adorably out of her element heroine
•Duke in hiding hero
•"Teach me to flirt"
•"If anything has happened to her, you'll answer to me."

[Jessica Lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

TITLE: It’s Raining Rakes in April
AUTHOR: Annabelle Anders
SERIES: The Rake Review
SERIES ORDER: 4 of 12
RELEASE DATE: 4/1/2024
GENRE: Regency Romance
RATING: ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥
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DISCLAIMER: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I received this as an ARC but due to a mishap in the delivery (I got it after the release date), and other ARCs I had on my plate, I ended up reading this three months later.

This was such an amazing story! I absolutely loved Jane and Henry/Arthur! I loved watching them fall in love; I was rooting for them throughout the entire story! I loved how Jane and Henry/Arthur met, I loved how they didn’t really have each other in mind for marriage, but the more time they spent together, the more they fell. Spoiler: I loved the scene where Jane gets sick and we see Henry/Arthur lose his mind when he thinks he might lose her.

I wasn’t a fan of his mother. I know she wants a good match for her son, but she completely disregarded her son and his feelings.

Annabelle Anders is one of my favorite Regency/Historical Romance authors. I love the journeys she takes you on, and how she makes you feel like you’re right there in the midst of all the action! I wonder if we’ll see any of the Rigsby’s in any future book. Jane has six sisters, and while we don’t get to know any of her sisters in this book aside from some of their names, it would be interesting to see if/what could become of them.

Thank you Annabelle and Brazen Belles for this advance copy!

[BookishMya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anders never fails to keep my attention. It’s Raining Rakes in April comes out swinging with great romance, lively banter and smoking chemistry. Henry & Julia are the perfect compliment, he’s steadfast and she is selfless. They both value their responsibilities and loyalty to those under their care, and together they can take on the ton. There are quite a few surprises in store that come about in unlikely ways for titillating drama. The Brazen Belle is of course present to stir up trouble, but how one deals with trouble is often the best display of their character. Henry steps up to the plate to make everything right in the best ways, he is one swoon-worthy gentleman. Julia is a heroine that make you long for her happiness, she is always putting others before herself, even to her own detriment. She deserves someone to take care of her for a change, to put her first. And that person is clearly Henry Pope, for he has ‘seen’ her from the very start. This is a truly enthralling story not to be missed!

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story seems to skip over some parts to a rushed ending!
We have Mr Henry Pope nephew to the Duchess and a rake per the Brazen Belle newspaper!
We have Julia who is one of 7 daughters who must marry first to make way for her younger sisters! They have pieced together a tiny dowry and she has her aunt for guidance!
Henry is drawn to Julia Rigsby genteel daughter of very minor nobility!
Julia is drawn to Henry and she to him. They have several things in common and he is assisting her with capturing a suitor Aka husband!
When Julia falls deathly ill Henry poured his heart out in letters and Julia begin to dream of a future!
When she takes a chance to meet Mr Pope after her recovery will she meet the man of her dreams or so much more!
Will Henry stand up to his mother and be the man and protector Julia needs?
**Spoiler**
When did these two have a chance to tie the knot after their umm encounter at the church?
Bravo

[Rainelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s Raining Rakes in April. My fellow readers I enjoyed this book tremendously. I have to admit it. I simply couldn’t help myself. Duke Redgefield or Henry is a Rogue and a Rake, if the analogies can go together.
Ladies talk about a bad boy, but in the good sense of the term. Henry had poor Julia at sixes and sevens from the drop of the handkerchief to the most invited ball gathering in London. I love the excitement of the chase and run little rabbit game between the two main characters. I will comment on the much anticipated romance that melted my heart completely. The sparring romance involving Henry and Julia was an unforgettable experience of desire, filled with passion that curled the toes.
I give this book two snaps, a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!

[Carissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella in the Rake Review multi author series was light hearted and enjoyable for an afternoon read. Henry is a 2nd son who comes into a dukedom but hides his identity since most debutantes will do anything to marry a duke for title. And Julia is the oldest of 7 sisters and needs to marry well to support her family but she doesn’t know how to flirt. In which Henry becomes enamored by her. It was just cute to see their relationship, it just ended too quickly.

I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

[Mephala · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's been a while since I've read this book (I'm just catching up on my reviews), so I don't have much to say, other than I remember the story being entertaining and somewhat fitting the spring setting - having a light and cute feel.

I also enjoyed the hero's nickname for the heroine (pet names are my weakness), and their charming first meeting.

3,5/5 stars

[Sandra R · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nicely written lighthearted historical romance novella.

[Tabetha Waite · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely novella that touched my heart and did not disappoint! On to the next!

[Liz C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely little Regency romance. The cover also caught my eye 😍

[Dew · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not a religious person, but yikes, some of the choices that author made were pure cringe and the book would have been better if the entire chapter were cut. I get that the author wanted to have a surprise ending and needed to stretch the book, but there is a difference between a surprise that makes any kind of sense and a totally out of left field - WTF - moment. I had to go back and re-read the sacrilegious part a second time because I thought I missed something that would have made the ending make any kind of sense. Now I can’t stop thinking of the mmc’s hands crawling like spiders over the fmc and - pardon me while I gak - the mention of “juices”. Gross. Or that the fmc is ignorant of the Church of England’s religious services and that she mistook mass for tourism.

[Ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review may contain spoilers!

First and foremost, what a pleasant, sweet and spicy book!

I must say it’s one of my favourites so far, and I was sad to see it end, I was eager for more pages with those two.

A dashing, with a whiff of smoke, pine and chocolate, rake suddenly becomes the new Duke of Ridgefield, after his father and brother’s demise, while he’s away at sea. Yet, he only agrees to come back to London, at his mother’s bequest. To have his affairs in order prior to inherit, he hides his identity, adopting the alias, Henry Pope.

One day in Hyde Park, he spots a very clumsy lady, clearly trying to get a husband. And not just any husband, his cousin Phillip, that is eager to take over the Dukedom that belongs to Henry. Yet, there is something special about her, something unique, that rattles him and spikes his interest.

There was a flair with innocence about Lady Julia Rigsby, bewitching him like a siren call.

“He had not misheard her the first time, no, his little mermaid had a vocabulary to rival a sailor. And it surprised him – she surprised him – something few people were capable of doing.”

This was one of the points where I found myself often smirking while reading, Julia and Henry cursing through their teeth, expressions such as “Curses and fu-ddlesticks!” and its match “Bollocks and bitches”.

Do I know why it made me laugh so much? No! I simply found it hilarious. Probably because they were perfect for one another from the get-go. She wasn’t a frail damsel in distress, all proper and shy, and she knew what she had to do to ensure her sisters’ happiness and was ready to do it.

Henry was in no way in search of a wife, yet Julia, being the oldest of seven sisters, was in a desperate hunt for a husband. In need of his experienced rake’s instructions on how to seduce a man, it was bound to end in a whirlpool romance, that none of them were expecting.

Having Julia in his grasp proved to be quite a challenge, letting her go was unfathomable.

“Henry found himself searching her eyes with equal scrutiny. Greyish-blue, the color of the sea right before a storm.”

And a storm it was. Emotions running high, feelings threatening to overcome reason, love flowing through their veins, like a sweet poison, society be damned.

What could possibly go wrong with a rake teaching a damsel in the arts of seduction?

It was a highly pleasurable read, with a fluid, romantic and, at times comic, writing, that eased the complex and serious moments. It was sizzling, tender, short and fast-paced.

I have several moments that I cherish, the full of events, introduction between them at the park, the moment he took her through a secret passageway (a jib door), into a massive library *swoons*, when Julia not quite conscious, confesses her will and desire to travel the world, like he did, and he crumbles, fearing her demise; and of course, when they surrendered to one another, reaching that undeniable point of connecting and completion. That sense of being whole, of finding the right person, their one true love.

I’ve been in a cloud of very different shades of rake, and I’m loving it! Can’t wait to read the next one in this series, and to keep following Annabelle Anders’ marvellous writing.

I’ve requested this book from the author, and this is my honest, voluntary review.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the author for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion...

This is book 4 in the Rake Review series and the Brazen Belle lays out speculation as to who the next Duke of Ridgefield shall be, as the previous Duke and his eldest son died in quick succession almost 7 years previously... and the younger son has been missing for almost that long, after parting ways acrimoniously with his family, and may soon be declared dead, leaving the way clear for a cousin to inherit.

Miss Julia Rigsby, the eldest daughter of an untitled country gentleman, and the eldest of seven sisters has been brought to London to debut, by her aunt. Despite being almost on the shelf, in her 20s, she has been given the express task of gaining herself a good match. It is her duty, as the eldest, to wed well and secure the futures of her siblings, and despite her own misgivings about the proposed matches put forth by her aunt, Julia takes this to heart and tries vigorously to capture the attentions of some of the eligible bachelors of the Ton. This includes Mr. Birdwhistle, who is enjoying great popularity with the current round of debs, as the possible heir presumptive to the Dukedom.

Julia, despite her age, is rather guileless and inept at the art of flirtation, and when trying to enact the mechanisms advised by her sisters and aunt to capture the bachelor's attention, fails dismally. Instead, she ends up drawing the attention of an unkempt stranger, and ends up being saved from a muddy, watery dip in the Serpentine by him. This is how she is introduced to the enigmatic Mr. Henry Pope, who sees her endeavours, and while initially attracted to her dismisses Julia as being like the other women on the Marriage Mart; conniving, and grasping at ways to entrap a man.

Mr. Henry Pope is in reality the missing younger son of the Duke of Ridgefield, the true heir, returned at the behest of his mother and sister to claim the dukedom, and in hiding while his credentials are being set in place, but going about society incognito, which is how he encounters Julia.

As they come upon each other again in Society, they become unlikely friends after forging an alliance where he would help her learn to flirt and attract a husband. Julia believes him to be the poor relation of the Duchess of Ridgeway, but likes and trusts him, especially considering how he saved her. Julia both charms Henry, and brings out his protective instincts, and cracks open his heart.

This is a cute hidden identity romance, with a rather charming, earnest female character, and a brooding hero in hiding who cannot help but be charmed by her, despite being unlucky in love before (part of the story that leads to his break with his family and leaving England).

An enjoyable bon bon of story with some humour, sweetness, with lots of April showers, and a bit of steam in a church. The Brazen Belle also takes a bit of a cruel turn in this one, targeting poor Julia and her family as well, causing the Ton to turn on them.

4 stars out of 5

[Imromanticallyinvolved · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a twist of fate, a charming undercover duke and a delightfully clumsy debutante cross paths, igniting a spark that neither can ignore. It's no secret that debutantes will stop at nothing to catch the eye of a duke, which is one of the reasons why the Duke of Ridgefield is posing as the mysterious Mr. Pope this season. Miss Julia Rigsby is on a mission to marry well, but she's not exactly a pro at the art of flirting. Could the dashing Mr. Pope be the perfect teacher she never knew she needed? With his good looks and charm, it's safe to say that Miss Julia might just be in for a lesson she'll never forget!

'It's Raining Rakes in April' by Annabelle Anders delves into the intricate tale of Henry Pope, a man with a secret identity who assumes the guise of an impoverished rake until he can publicly lay claim to his dukedom. In his quest to recover his true identity while maintaining a veil of anonymity, Henry shows no inclination towards seeking the approval or disapproval of polite society, evading the advances of marriage-minded debutantes. Julia Rigsby, the eldest of seven daughters and burdened by an ailing father, finds herself under immense pressure to secure a prosperous marriage that would ensure a better future for her siblings. Despite her endearing nature, she is deemed an awkward country bumpkin, struggling to navigate the complexities of society's marriage mart.
In a serendipitous turn of events, Henry and Julia strike a mutually beneficial bargain - he agrees to impart lessons on the art of flirtation to help her attract a suitable suitor, while she offers to mend his jacket in return. Henry is deeply moved by Julia's selfless and charming gesture, finding himself entranced by her unexpected kindness. Their burgeoning relationship is deemed forbidden, as Henry's perceived impoverishment disqualifies him as a potential suitor for Julia, who is dismissed as unsuitable duchess material. Together, they navigate the complexities of society's expectations and forge a bond that transcends their perceived limitations. As they defy the odds and follow their hearts, they teach us the power of love and resilience.

Anders skillfully weaves a delightful narrative that chronicles the growth of Henry and Julia's relationship, making 'It's Raining Rakes in April' a compelling read. With its witty banter, light-hearted tone, and occasional moments of surprise, this story offers a comforting escape for readers seeking a cozy read on a rainy day. Although this is a one flame on the steam scale, it in no way lacks chemistry and the one scene may shock you in its locale! Packed with goodness and low in angst, this short story is a perfect blend of sweetness and charm.

I was honored to receive an ARC directly from the author (Thank you!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Nazmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four and a half stars rounded up. It’s Raining Rake’s in April is the fourth book in the multi author series The Rake Review. The premise is the each of the heroes in the series are featured in a monthly article called The Rake Review.
April’s hero is Henry Pope, Duke of Ridgefield. Henry has been away sailing the seas for seven years following a heartbreak. Amongst that time, unbeknownst to him, his father and then his elder brother passed away leaving him the responsibilities of the duchy. At the request of his mother he is lying low so that his solicitors can solidify his claim. So he is masquerading as a cousin of the family which gives him the opportunity to observe the marriage minded ladies of the Ton try to catch the attention of the catch of the season. Julia Rigsby is the eldest of seven sisters and she has to marry well. Failure is not an option. But when her fumbling attempts at flirting are less than successful she is in despair. The rakish Mr Pope might be just the person to help hone her skills at flirting. As they continue to meet Julia realises that there is only one man she wants to flirt with – but can she afford to let her sisters down?
This was a very enjoyable instalment in the series. Both Julia and Henry are very likeable characters and are really well matched. Julia is lovely. She has the burden of expecting to marry well as the eldest sister but I like that she quickly realises that she cannot pursue other men when she is so drawn to Henry.
I liked Henry as a hero very much. He actually is not much of a rake at all but a genuinely honourable and caring man. He realised his feelings for Julia quickly and I loved the letters he sent whilst she was ill. There is little angst in the story aside from Henry’s secret which was revealed in a pretty dramatic way. I did like that Julia didn’t react typically and accepted the reveal without major angst. Even the potential enemy wasn’t at all villainous in the end.
All in all, this was a lovely story and I hope it is the start of a series – the potential with Julia’s sisters is very much there. This left me feeling happy and charmed and I would definitely recommend to all. I received an advanced review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shiney · Rating 4 out of 5]

The true Duke of Ridgefield is undercover as Mr. Henry Pope, a rakish but poor, distant relation of the current Dowager Duchess of Ridgefield. Miss Julia Rigby is a debutante, whose ambitions to marry as well as she can is motivated by the fact that she has six younger sisters. Miss Rigby is precisely the kind of debutante the Duke of Ridgefield is hiding from, but it is her, with her clumsy attempts at flirting and innocence of the game, that catches Henry Pope's attention.

Out of curiosity at first, Henry approaches Julia and offers his expertise in navigating the marriage mart. Julia is only too grateful to reject such a generous and helpful offer. But as their lessons progress, so do their feelings, and pretty soon, Henry and Julia find in each other the perfect mate, if only for some societal obstacles. Julia cannot afford to have her reputation ruined and lose her precarious position in society, which Henry inadvertently did. Henry is expected to make an offer to a society-suitable future duchess, which Julia made impossible for Henry, because he falls all-in.

In a world where everything is veneer, Henry and Julia see each other for who they truly are. It's a meeting of the minds and hearts and souls that will find their way through life together, society be damned.

And damned it was, so spectacularly.

All the action seems to happen quickly, but also feels perfectly paced, including the brewing storm of the secret of the true Duke of Ridgefield. Henry and Julia's physical relationship culminates in quite a way, and in such a setting. It was a little unusual and imagining it felt a little embarrassing for me, but it truly works for the circumstances Henry and Julia's love story plays in.

It's Raining Rakes in April is a wonderful, quick, romantic (and steamy!) read from Annabelle Anders, just perfect for the spring.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series, where a different author writes a book each month. All were wonderful, and this one is extra special due to the H and h. Arthur, the last living heir to the Duke of Ridgefield, left home and England seven years ago. After his family broke his heart. He has just learned that his father and brother died six years ago. Now a cousin, Phillip, is trying to claim the dukedom. His mother the Duchess wants him to wait till all the legal papers have been filed to let the ton know he is back. He pretends to be a poor relation of the family and goes by Mr. Henry Pope. This way he can spy on Phillip and escort his mother and sister to dances. While spying on Phillip he meets Julia Rigsby. Julia is a fish out of water to say the least. Her aunt, Prudence, had brought her and four of her six sisters to London for her to find a husband. Not just any man will do as he must be wealthy enough to help all her sisters have a season! Julia is a lovely country lady and hasn’t any idea how to flirt or make a man see her. She is very outspoken and says things without thinking. While in the park she has an accident and Henry saves her. Let the games begin. As they meet, talk and start to learn about each other they find they have lots in common. Only Julia sees him as a wonderful new friend who is willing to show her how to get a man. Oh, my what could go wrong with this idea. I dislike both the aunt and Henry mother. Even when Julia was endangered his mother was more worried about what the ton would think than her own son. Julia’s aunt doesn’t care if she likes the man, she has picked out for her if they are wealthy. I know times were different but both Julia and Henry have been used and hurt by family before. No one listens to either of them and what they want or feel. It made me sad and mad. This story has tons of emotion going on with secrets, misunderstanding and passion too. A great read. I am on to the next book. Be sure and do not miss this one. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.