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The Rake Review #2
The Fake February Rake
The ton thinks Hades is a rake. He’s not.
Before the Brazen Belle’s gossip column named him February’s rake, Dr. Hades Jones was the ton’s most trusted doctor, proper in every way but for his family’s scandalous past. But the rake the Belle named wasn’t him. I t was someone wearing his distinctive silk-lined coat, which was stolen from him months ago. Now Hades is on the hunt for the coat thief, and what he finds in a Covent Garden alley is not what he expects—a woman with doe eyes, a steal spine, and a tart tongue he unexpectedly wants to taste.
Everyone thinks she’s Hades. She’s just wearing his coat.
Lady Ophelia Howard has one purpose in life—protect the women of London from rakes, scoundrels, and rogues. Unable to save her father’s mistress, she’ll do whatever she must to keep other women from suffering the same fate, including theft. She stole the devilishly handsome doctor’s coat to hide her identity while sneaking women to safety. She didn’t mean to smear his good name.
And now he’s caught her, and he insists she help restore his reputation. Any way she can. Including marriage. But can marriage to an earl’s daughter bring the ton calling once more? Or will Ophelia’s radical secrets ruin them both?
The Fake February Rake is book 2 in the multi-author series The Rake Review. If you enjoy watching some of London's most notorious scoundrels getting raked over the coals, then be sure to collect all twelve bachelors in The Rake Review!
Before the Brazen Belle’s gossip column named him February’s rake, Dr. Hades Jones was the ton’s most trusted doctor, proper in every way but for his family’s scandalous past. But the rake the Belle named wasn’t him. I t was someone wearing his distinctive silk-lined coat, which was stolen from him months ago. Now Hades is on the hunt for the coat thief, and what he finds in a Covent Garden alley is not what he expects—a woman with doe eyes, a steal spine, and a tart tongue he unexpectedly wants to taste.
Everyone thinks she’s Hades. She’s just wearing his coat.
Lady Ophelia Howard has one purpose in life—protect the women of London from rakes, scoundrels, and rogues. Unable to save her father’s mistress, she’ll do whatever she must to keep other women from suffering the same fate, including theft. She stole the devilishly handsome doctor’s coat to hide her identity while sneaking women to safety. She didn’t mean to smear his good name.
And now he’s caught her, and he insists she help restore his reputation. Any way she can. Including marriage. But can marriage to an earl’s daughter bring the ton calling once more? Or will Ophelia’s radical secrets ruin them both?
The Fake February Rake is book 2 in the multi-author series The Rake Review. If you enjoy watching some of London's most notorious scoundrels getting raked over the coals, then be sure to collect all twelve bachelors in The Rake Review!
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2024
245 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Lane
72 books186 followersCharlie writes Regency romance that's lighthearted and hot. Her books have a little bit of angst, a lot of laughs, and a whole lot of heart and heat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
February 2, 2024
This is only my 8th book by Charlie Lane. I read my first book of hers in Jan, 2021. I enjoyed her London Secrets series but have been disappointed in her books since then. I am only reading this book because it’s part of a series with other authors and I having read her before I thought I would go ahead and read this one.
I am glad I did. I really enjoyed Hades and Ophelia's story. It was a cute read. I liked the concept. I would have liked to have a bit more of an ending. I mean I get the HEA is the most important thing but sometimes other details I like to know. They aren't significant to the story but and I don't want to give anything anyway but if you read this you may know what I'm talking about for the ending. I would be curious as to what happened after...
I am glad I did. I really enjoyed Hades and Ophelia's story. It was a cute read. I liked the concept. I would have liked to have a bit more of an ending. I mean I get the HEA is the most important thing but sometimes other details I like to know. They aren't significant to the story but and I don't want to give anything anyway but if you read this you may know what I'm talking about for the ending. I would be curious as to what happened after...
March 8, 2024
Dr Feel Good story. A few great chase scenes. Interesting characters but story was not coherent enough to inspire all 5 stars.
January 20, 2024
"I will keep your secrets. And I will tell you all of mine.... I want a partner, not a maid, and I see in you a woman equal to if not better than me."
4.25 stars
This is the second book in the Rake Review series, and in this story, the Brazen Belle denounces Dr. Hades Jones as a rake, accusing him of ferreting women to his "harem" under the cover of darkness. However, it is actually our heroine Ophelia who has been secretly helping these women escape their horrid husbands and using Dr. Jones's coat as a disguise. As a result of Ophelia's duplicity, Dr. Jones's reputation as an honorable man takes a hit and his business declines almost immediately. In an effort to reclaim his status, Dr. Jones proposes a mutually beneficial arrangement--Ophelia will marry him and reestablish his reputation, while Hades will support Ophelia's secret cause.
Despite the seemingly impersonal approach to their marriage, both Hades and Ophelia are surprised by the attraction and admiration they feel towards one another. At first, Hades is desperate to win Ophelia's hand by any means necessary, but he is eventually shocked to realize that he cares more about Ophelia's happiness than his acceptance in Society. Ophelia came off as selfish and a bit of a stuck-up princess type, but she eventually won me over with her sincerity and devotion to Hades and his family. This was a sweet but still steamy read, and I am once again excited for more in this series🖤
Tropes: marriage of convenience, mistaken identity, bastard hero, rebellious heroine, lessons in seduction, no third act breakup, mild OM drama (no cheating), slow burn, steamy🔥
*ARC provided by the author, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
January 27, 2024
The Fake February Rake by Charlie Lane is the second book in the Rake Review series and involves Dr. Hades Jones, a physician for the ton who has his reputation sullied by Lady Ophelia Howard, a strong-willed earl's daughter, after she steals his greatcoat and uses it to disguise her nighttime activities as Mistress Charity. The ton thinks Hades is kidnapping women and adding them to his "harem" as The Devil Doctor, while the truth is that Lady Ophelia is helping women in need "disappear" from their dire situations. As recompense for ruining his medical practice, Hades seeks her hand in a marriage of convenience to resuscitate his professional reputation among the ton. What follows is a sweet love story, whereby the heroine learns to trust Hades as a man, and Hades learns the depth of her courage and dedication to helping women who are less fortunate than herself.
I enjoyed this story; it is well-written, with lovely prose and imagery, and so engaging. I was not only impressed with how devoted Hades is to his mother and younger sister - family means everything to him, despite, or perhaps because of, his ignoble birth - but also with how his compassionate care of women as a physician is portrayed by the author. He might be a "rake" at heart when it comes to Ophelia, but he is a good man, and I appreciated that he is honest with her and does what he can to foster her trust. The two together, although both technically virgins, are steamy and sweet, and I loved seeing them get their happy ending. The epilogue was icing on this delicious romance, and I am looking forward to reading more by this author as well as more books in the Rake Review series, coming out all through 2024 (10 more to enjoy!)
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this story; it is well-written, with lovely prose and imagery, and so engaging. I was not only impressed with how devoted Hades is to his mother and younger sister - family means everything to him, despite, or perhaps because of, his ignoble birth - but also with how his compassionate care of women as a physician is portrayed by the author. He might be a "rake" at heart when it comes to Ophelia, but he is a good man, and I appreciated that he is honest with her and does what he can to foster her trust. The two together, although both technically virgins, are steamy and sweet, and I loved seeing them get their happy ending. The epilogue was icing on this delicious romance, and I am looking forward to reading more by this author as well as more books in the Rake Review series, coming out all through 2024 (10 more to enjoy!)
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 31, 2024
4.5 Stars
Before the Brazen Belle’s gossip column named him February’s rake, Dr. Hades Jones was the ton’s most trusted doctor. But the rake the Belle named wasn’t him. It was someone wearing his distinctive silk-lined coat, which was stolen from him months ago. Now Hades is on the hunt for the coat thief, and what he finds in a Covent Garden alley is not what he expects. Lady Ophelia Howard has one purpose in life—protect the women of London from rakes, scoundrels, and rogues.
An absolute delight, Ophelia is strong willed, has turned down nearly a dozen proposals but is also caring & loving. Hades is a talented doctor also caring & he loves his family even wearing a gaudy coat his sister gave him. I loved the couple’s journey to a HEA, the chemistry between them sizzled & they worked to have a true partnership although there were hiccups at times. A well written engrossing romance, which I thoroughly enjoyed
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Before the Brazen Belle’s gossip column named him February’s rake, Dr. Hades Jones was the ton’s most trusted doctor. But the rake the Belle named wasn’t him. It was someone wearing his distinctive silk-lined coat, which was stolen from him months ago. Now Hades is on the hunt for the coat thief, and what he finds in a Covent Garden alley is not what he expects. Lady Ophelia Howard has one purpose in life—protect the women of London from rakes, scoundrels, and rogues.
An absolute delight, Ophelia is strong willed, has turned down nearly a dozen proposals but is also caring & loving. Hades is a talented doctor also caring & he loves his family even wearing a gaudy coat his sister gave him. I loved the couple’s journey to a HEA, the chemistry between them sizzled & they worked to have a true partnership although there were hiccups at times. A well written engrossing romance, which I thoroughly enjoyed
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 30, 2024
I had a lot of fun with this one!
The heroine is Ophelia, and she has made it her mission to help women who have been used and abused by the aristocracy. This requires a disguise, so she steals her mother's doctor's coat.
The hero is named Hades... and has gotten the nickname of The Devil Doctor because someone stole his coat and is making women disappear.
These two are lovely together, and I enjoyed the fact that Hades was willing to do anything to gain Ophelia's trust. It's worth noting that both the hero and heroine are virgins (but the hero has done everything but).
I do wish there had been a bit more closure as far as her family is concerned. It didn't feel like that situation was entirely resolved.
Overall, a fun book! I would definitely read more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
The heroine is Ophelia, and she has made it her mission to help women who have been used and abused by the aristocracy. This requires a disguise, so she steals her mother's doctor's coat.
The hero is named Hades... and has gotten the nickname of The Devil Doctor because someone stole his coat and is making women disappear.
These two are lovely together, and I enjoyed the fact that Hades was willing to do anything to gain Ophelia's trust. It's worth noting that both the hero and heroine are virgins (but the hero has done everything but).
I do wish there had been a bit more closure as far as her family is concerned. It didn't feel like that situation was entirely resolved.
Overall, a fun book! I would definitely read more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 20, 2024
Charlie Lane is one of my favorite authors and this book is an example of why.
An Ugly Flashy Coat and A Gossip Column is how it all began the rest is history.
Ophelia stole his coat by mistake to help disguise herself as a man to help women escape from abusive situations or other situations where they have nowhere else to turn to. After all she's witnessed how cruel it can be for them after seeing how her own father mistreated his mistress and her brother.
Hades wants only wants his coat back because the coat was a gift from his sister that he treasures and he also wants revenge against the person who helped destroy his reputation by making him out to be the Devil Doctor. After all that's all he had amongst the ton.
When their paths cross one night they begin a rocky courtship that neither she really doesn't want, then turns into an understanding passionate courtship that they both want and need and then into a happily ever after.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from the beginning to end.
I definitely can't wait for the next book in the rake reviews.
I received this as advanced reader's copy in exchange for a voluntary review and this purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
An Ugly Flashy Coat and A Gossip Column is how it all began the rest is history.
Ophelia stole his coat by mistake to help disguise herself as a man to help women escape from abusive situations or other situations where they have nowhere else to turn to. After all she's witnessed how cruel it can be for them after seeing how her own father mistreated his mistress and her brother.
Hades wants only wants his coat back because the coat was a gift from his sister that he treasures and he also wants revenge against the person who helped destroy his reputation by making him out to be the Devil Doctor. After all that's all he had amongst the ton.
When their paths cross one night they begin a rocky courtship that neither she really doesn't want, then turns into an understanding passionate courtship that they both want and need and then into a happily ever after.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from the beginning to end.
I definitely can't wait for the next book in the rake reviews.
I received this as advanced reader's copy in exchange for a voluntary review and this purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
January 19, 2024
This is a fun, entertaining read. Hades and Ophelia are interesting, intriguing, relatable entertaining, fun characters. I really liked these characters and their romance – it was very fitting for them. Their path to their HEA was full of twists and turns that were fun to read. Ophelia is the type of friend you want in your corner especially when you’re facing a tough time/situation. The various secondary characters added to the fabric of the story and my enjoyment. The story is easy to read and get into. This is the second book in a multi-author series which doesn’t have to be read in order.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 1, 2024
This book fit so well into the “Rake Review” theme with an anti-rake, Dr. Hades Jones, also unfortunately known as the Devil Doctor. I loved that he accidentally got his reputation as a rake because a figure in his greatcoat was seen wisking a woman away to his “harem”. Well surprise, surprise, it WASN’T Hades, but a certain female using his coat as a coverup that Hades catches sneaking a mistreated woman not to a harem, but to a safe house. This meet-cute is so creative and a fun way to start the novel. I instantly had an appreciation for Ophelia and loved her fearless personality.
Ophelia is a spinster that needs a husband, and Hades needs a new reputation (not just from the mistaken identity, but he was born out of wedlock). The solution? Ophelia’s father decides they should marry which will fix his reputation to a reputable woman and obtain her a husband since she has turned down all other suitors. I loved watching the interest between Hades and Ophelia grow. Since their foundation is initially built on mistrust, they test each other and find that time and again, they might just be the person the other needs. The chemistry between Hades and Ophelia is timid at first but quickly grows iron hot as the couple becomes more and more comfortable around one another. There is a super hot scene involving sex lessons because, hello?! doctors know how the body works! and Dr. Jones wants to make sure Ophelia understands hers. There are also a few plot twists but no third act breakup, which I was pleased to read. My only critique was that the heroine uses the word “Pudding” as a curse. That’s fine, but the overuse by her and then the adoption of the word by Hades felt a little heavy to me. Regardless, I still thoroughly enjoyed this book and am loving this series by the Brazen Belles. I received an early copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
*You can also purchase a calendar featuring the twelve rakes of the Rake Review series! So if you like this book, consider snagging one.
Ophelia is a spinster that needs a husband, and Hades needs a new reputation (not just from the mistaken identity, but he was born out of wedlock). The solution? Ophelia’s father decides they should marry which will fix his reputation to a reputable woman and obtain her a husband since she has turned down all other suitors. I loved watching the interest between Hades and Ophelia grow. Since their foundation is initially built on mistrust, they test each other and find that time and again, they might just be the person the other needs. The chemistry between Hades and Ophelia is timid at first but quickly grows iron hot as the couple becomes more and more comfortable around one another. There is a super hot scene involving sex lessons because, hello?! doctors know how the body works! and Dr. Jones wants to make sure Ophelia understands hers. There are also a few plot twists but no third act breakup, which I was pleased to read. My only critique was that the heroine uses the word “Pudding” as a curse. That’s fine, but the overuse by her and then the adoption of the word by Hades felt a little heavy to me. Regardless, I still thoroughly enjoyed this book and am loving this series by the Brazen Belles. I received an early copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
*You can also purchase a calendar featuring the twelve rakes of the Rake Review series! So if you like this book, consider snagging one.
February 1, 2024
Tropes: Forced Engagement, Mistaken Identity, Illegitimate Hero, Feisty heroine, Virgin MC's, Lessons, No Third Act Breakup
This was so sweet and lighthearted! It's a feel good story with low angst, a gooey centered hero and a warm hearted heroine. These two are perfect for each other!
I loved the non-traditional take on a by-blow portrayed in this story. Hades grew up well-loved despite his illegitimacy and was anything but the usual "nothing can hurt me" rake with a chip on his shoulder out to ruin any and all women. In fact, HE was the one ruined and needed to marry to save his reputation. I really liked this reversal.
Ophelia was such a strong, compassionate, woman of action set on rescuing women from abusive situations. She was understandably wary of men after seeing how her own father so easily discarded a woman in need. I really enjoyed how committed Ophelia was in her cause but still maintained reason in the dangers she put herself into and was willing to accept help.
I enjoyed the journey of these two. They took the time to build trust and really focused on how they could benefit each other. A really nice give and take feel. Although they were both virgins, Hades had experimented (for research purposes 😉) and his sharing of what he knew was a sizzling scene! 🔥 This was so well-written and engaged me right from the beginning. The surrounding characters were endearing, and I hope to learn more of them. I was left feeling like these two belonged together with believable situations and outcomes.
This was book 2 in The Rake Review Series that can be read alone but the whole series promises to be a crowd pleaser.
I was honored to receive an ARC directly from the author (Thank You!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was so sweet and lighthearted! It's a feel good story with low angst, a gooey centered hero and a warm hearted heroine. These two are perfect for each other!
I loved the non-traditional take on a by-blow portrayed in this story. Hades grew up well-loved despite his illegitimacy and was anything but the usual "nothing can hurt me" rake with a chip on his shoulder out to ruin any and all women. In fact, HE was the one ruined and needed to marry to save his reputation. I really liked this reversal.
Ophelia was such a strong, compassionate, woman of action set on rescuing women from abusive situations. She was understandably wary of men after seeing how her own father so easily discarded a woman in need. I really enjoyed how committed Ophelia was in her cause but still maintained reason in the dangers she put herself into and was willing to accept help.
I enjoyed the journey of these two. They took the time to build trust and really focused on how they could benefit each other. A really nice give and take feel. Although they were both virgins, Hades had experimented (for research purposes 😉) and his sharing of what he knew was a sizzling scene! 🔥 This was so well-written and engaged me right from the beginning. The surrounding characters were endearing, and I hope to learn more of them. I was left feeling like these two belonged together with believable situations and outcomes.
This was book 2 in The Rake Review Series that can be read alone but the whole series promises to be a crowd pleaser.
I was honored to receive an ARC directly from the author (Thank You!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 6, 2024
The Fake February Rake
The Rake Review, Book 2
Charlie Lane, author
Oh how I enjoyed this darling story about Hades and Ophelia . Their story is sweet and passionate....
Synopsis:
Ophelia's father wants to marry her off and he believes he is throwing her off track when he sends her to the local physician in town that is known as, not only a Rake, but the "devil doctor," as well. When he suspects his errant ways has gone awry, he confronts her with three other specimens for a husband. Of course, Ophelia will have none of it and runs... But where or who does she run to? And oh my gosh, the things she learns.
Thoughts:
This was my first ever book by this author and I was pleasantly entertained. The author did an impeccable job with the storyline and even added a side story amidst the main storyline. This added more depth to the story and something that Hades and Ophelia were able to work together on, alongside two other minor characters in the book. The plot held my interest and the story was nicely written. The two main characters exuded chemistry between themselves.
I received an advanced reader copy of the book and in exchange for my honest opinion. These are my own thoughts. I am happy to leave this review. I recommend this book, most definitely.
The Rake Review, Book 2
Charlie Lane, author
Oh how I enjoyed this darling story about Hades and Ophelia . Their story is sweet and passionate....
Synopsis:
Ophelia's father wants to marry her off and he believes he is throwing her off track when he sends her to the local physician in town that is known as, not only a Rake, but the "devil doctor," as well. When he suspects his errant ways has gone awry, he confronts her with three other specimens for a husband. Of course, Ophelia will have none of it and runs... But where or who does she run to? And oh my gosh, the things she learns.
Thoughts:
This was my first ever book by this author and I was pleasantly entertained. The author did an impeccable job with the storyline and even added a side story amidst the main storyline. This added more depth to the story and something that Hades and Ophelia were able to work together on, alongside two other minor characters in the book. The plot held my interest and the story was nicely written. The two main characters exuded chemistry between themselves.
I received an advanced reader copy of the book and in exchange for my honest opinion. These are my own thoughts. I am happy to leave this review. I recommend this book, most definitely.
February 2, 2024
This is the second book from "The Rake Review" series and my first by Charlie Lane. One thing I can say for sure - Hades and Ophelia's story captivated me.
Their first meeting was quite interesting, with Hades trying to fix his reputation. By doing this, he never expected that the person who impersonated him was a woman...and what a woman indeed.
These two were definitely the perfect couple. Ophelia was helping women in secret and Hades was the one being after her, not knowing what exactly she was doing. When he finds out, he is actually mesmerized by the beautiful Ophelia, and he is determined to make her his wife. But in the meantime, he was really supportive and every single chance he had, he was helping in her quest. Seeing his support, Hades becomes a desired man for her and, after a while, she starts to fall in love...
Even though the book was short, the actual story was fast-paced, and I was able to fall in love with the main characters. This is why I really enjoyed reading Ophelia and Hades love story.
***I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.***
Their first meeting was quite interesting, with Hades trying to fix his reputation. By doing this, he never expected that the person who impersonated him was a woman...and what a woman indeed.
These two were definitely the perfect couple. Ophelia was helping women in secret and Hades was the one being after her, not knowing what exactly she was doing. When he finds out, he is actually mesmerized by the beautiful Ophelia, and he is determined to make her his wife. But in the meantime, he was really supportive and every single chance he had, he was helping in her quest. Seeing his support, Hades becomes a desired man for her and, after a while, she starts to fall in love...
Even though the book was short, the actual story was fast-paced, and I was able to fall in love with the main characters. This is why I really enjoyed reading Ophelia and Hades love story.
***I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.***
February 10, 2024
The Rake Review is back and causing trouble again!
A stolen jacket, some late night escapades and ruined reputation forces Lady Ophelia Howard and Dr. Hades Jones together in an engagement forced upon them by her father in order to redeem him and take her off his hands!
Lady Ophelia is a self-proclaimed spinster devoted to the clandestine rescuing of women in trouble, who doesn’t trust men.
While Hades is/was a highly respected doctor to the ton trying to make up for the scandalous situation of his birth.
Seeing no escape from the forced engagement Lady Ophelia attempts to make the most of the situation and allows Hades to court her to see if he can earn her trust.
I love a good forest engagement that turns to true love. It was so sweet seeing Hades continually demonstrating to Ophelia that he is a man deserving of not only of her trust, but her love as well!!!
Above and beyond Hades and Ophelia, I absolutely adored the cute and fun family dynamics with his mother and sister! They were such a great addition to the story and not only rounded out Hades character, they added depth to the story as a whole.
Overall, The Fake February Rake
By Charlie Lane with the devilish doctor who’s a pure sweetheart at his core is available now!
…I can’t wait to see who we get in the next Rake Review in March!
Thanks to author Charlie Lane for my eBook review copy. Opinions are my own.
#TheFakeFebruaryRake #CharlieLane
A stolen jacket, some late night escapades and ruined reputation forces Lady Ophelia Howard and Dr. Hades Jones together in an engagement forced upon them by her father in order to redeem him and take her off his hands!
Lady Ophelia is a self-proclaimed spinster devoted to the clandestine rescuing of women in trouble, who doesn’t trust men.
While Hades is/was a highly respected doctor to the ton trying to make up for the scandalous situation of his birth.
Seeing no escape from the forced engagement Lady Ophelia attempts to make the most of the situation and allows Hades to court her to see if he can earn her trust.
I love a good forest engagement that turns to true love. It was so sweet seeing Hades continually demonstrating to Ophelia that he is a man deserving of not only of her trust, but her love as well!!!
Above and beyond Hades and Ophelia, I absolutely adored the cute and fun family dynamics with his mother and sister! They were such a great addition to the story and not only rounded out Hades character, they added depth to the story as a whole.
Overall, The Fake February Rake
By Charlie Lane with the devilish doctor who’s a pure sweetheart at his core is available now!
…I can’t wait to see who we get in the next Rake Review in March!
Thanks to author Charlie Lane for my eBook review copy. Opinions are my own.
#TheFakeFebruaryRake #CharlieLane
February 13, 2024
The Fake February Rake. Oh pudding, my fellow readers. Hades figured out Ophelia’s game real quick, didn’t he? I couldn’t do anything but shake my head at her whole game play. I loved everything about though and what Ophelia stood for.
Hades is my favorite character out of all the characters. I thought his character held the most power as to how the characters will come around to his way of thinking. Ophelia’s actions were a little quirky to me, but her mission is a solid plus as to helping those who have no one else to turn to. The romance is a slow burn, but the entertainment before the courtship by far are some of the best parts of the story. I loved that the two worked together on different issues without second thoughts to sacrifice.
Now for their parents that’s a different story all in itself. As I continue to read more books from this writer, without conviction I know their writing is only getting better. I give this book two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Hades is my favorite character out of all the characters. I thought his character held the most power as to how the characters will come around to his way of thinking. Ophelia’s actions were a little quirky to me, but her mission is a solid plus as to helping those who have no one else to turn to. The romance is a slow burn, but the entertainment before the courtship by far are some of the best parts of the story. I loved that the two worked together on different issues without second thoughts to sacrifice.
Now for their parents that’s a different story all in itself. As I continue to read more books from this writer, without conviction I know their writing is only getting better. I give this book two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2024
Once again, The Rake Review did not disappoint!
READ IF YOU LIKE:
• Bold FMC
• Bastard MMC
• Marriage of convenience
• Lessons in seduction
• Selfless heroes
If you are looking for a short, fun read with sweet characters, this is perfect for you. From their first interaction, I was already quite intrigued by our characters. And things moved fast so it kept me hooked easily. Ophelia's motives were easy to understand and I liked that she admitted her mistake even though she did what she did for good reasons. She's a brave character, not afraid to act on her beliefs which made it easy to like her. So many things Hades said made me love him more and more. The way he realized he wasn't truly happy by trying to fit in this society and he was probably focusing on the wrong things was great. He was also very honest and let Ophelia be who she was without wanting to change her, truly perfect. They were just fantastic together, so endearing and their chemistry was easy to see. Also, our fake rake definitely made me swoon with his lessons in seduction.
So yes, it was a compelling story with enjoyable and relatable characters that I had a lot of fun reading.
Thanks to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
READ IF YOU LIKE:
• Bold FMC
• Bastard MMC
• Marriage of convenience
• Lessons in seduction
• Selfless heroes
If you are looking for a short, fun read with sweet characters, this is perfect for you. From their first interaction, I was already quite intrigued by our characters. And things moved fast so it kept me hooked easily. Ophelia's motives were easy to understand and I liked that she admitted her mistake even though she did what she did for good reasons. She's a brave character, not afraid to act on her beliefs which made it easy to like her. So many things Hades said made me love him more and more. The way he realized he wasn't truly happy by trying to fit in this society and he was probably focusing on the wrong things was great. He was also very honest and let Ophelia be who she was without wanting to change her, truly perfect. They were just fantastic together, so endearing and their chemistry was easy to see. Also, our fake rake definitely made me swoon with his lessons in seduction.
"Touch me. Kiss me. Learn me."
So yes, it was a compelling story with enjoyable and relatable characters that I had a lot of fun reading.
Thanks to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
January 18, 2024
It smelled like her. He’d have to have it cleaned. - Hades
Hades is living what believes is his best life only showing the ton what they need to see to accept however at the tiniest bit of gossip, they all turn their backs on him and being to whisper. Ophelia , is a woman living in a man's world where she is trying to right wrongs and make sure she does not settle. They come to an agreement to salvage his reputation and what we get are two people who find the person they both need in their lives to make it whole. I enjoyed his family scenes as well. I really loved this story I devoured it and loved the HEA.
Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read this book prior to its publication date in exchange for my honest opinion.
Hades is living what believes is his best life only showing the ton what they need to see to accept however at the tiniest bit of gossip, they all turn their backs on him and being to whisper. Ophelia , is a woman living in a man's world where she is trying to right wrongs and make sure she does not settle. They come to an agreement to salvage his reputation and what we get are two people who find the person they both need in their lives to make it whole. I enjoyed his family scenes as well. I really loved this story I devoured it and loved the HEA.
Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read this book prior to its publication date in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 23, 2025
3.4 stars. This book was fine, but not captivating. I picked it up and put it down so many times. I’ve read several other books between starting and finishing this one, including one last night that I read in one 4 hour sitting.
February 2, 2024
I had a lot of fun with The Fake February Rake. Every time I thought I knew where she was going with it, I’d end up surprised. I really loved both the main characters, and the ending was quite satisfying. I can’t wait for more in this series!
April 29, 2024
I am now convinced that authors are sending their worst possible works to this series and there is no editor to oversee.
I read the 1st and the 3rd in this Rake Review series and hated them both. I have no experience with either of those authors - Cara Maxell or Sadie Bosque. But I have read Charlie Lane's Art of Love series and liked it immensely. While it has its flaws, that series still feels lived in, the over-arching narrative with the dead father is touching and I have had no issues with Charlie Lane's writing style. But this one is truly bizarre.
Here are a few examples of the ridiculous writing:
a) The butler frowned and stepped back... Hades danced with him, following him inside until the butler stopped, made himself into a boulder. DANCED? Seriously?
b) "Whomever it really was that Brazen Belle identified with it on, being an absolute scoundrel?" WHAT BS is this.
c) She sat back down, slowly, as if dropping through a well of honey.
d) You are walking scandal. Articles anyone?
e) She seemed to calm..., or perhaps Ophelia's reassuring had, like the doctor's earlier, helped. Misplaced past participle and faulty sentence structure.
f) '...think being a woman does not qualify me for knowing more than you do about being a woman?' What the author meant her was that the FL in righteous indignation was saying 'being a woman makes me more qualified than you (a male) about my own gender'. But God, what a convoluted way of putting it.
g) More meant with that simple question.
h) '...spoke with a woman, Mrs. Bellamy, whose sister, Mrs. Fairchild, lives in London. Whose sister wants out of London'. I think I should have stopped reading at this point.
i) 'You are a marquess's son, but you will never be welcome by his peers. You were welcomed'.
Oh, and also the H climbs into h's bedchamber in the middle of the night and asks her to go down on him.
I read the 1st and the 3rd in this Rake Review series and hated them both. I have no experience with either of those authors - Cara Maxell or Sadie Bosque. But I have read Charlie Lane's Art of Love series and liked it immensely. While it has its flaws, that series still feels lived in, the over-arching narrative with the dead father is touching and I have had no issues with Charlie Lane's writing style. But this one is truly bizarre.
Here are a few examples of the ridiculous writing:
a) The butler frowned and stepped back... Hades danced with him, following him inside until the butler stopped, made himself into a boulder. DANCED? Seriously?
b) "Whomever it really was that Brazen Belle identified with it on, being an absolute scoundrel?" WHAT BS is this.
c) She sat back down, slowly, as if dropping through a well of honey.
d) You are walking scandal. Articles anyone?
e) She seemed to calm..., or perhaps Ophelia's reassuring had, like the doctor's earlier, helped. Misplaced past participle and faulty sentence structure.
f) '...think being a woman does not qualify me for knowing more than you do about being a woman?' What the author meant her was that the FL in righteous indignation was saying 'being a woman makes me more qualified than you (a male) about my own gender'. But God, what a convoluted way of putting it.
g) More meant with that simple question.
h) '...spoke with a woman, Mrs. Bellamy, whose sister, Mrs. Fairchild, lives in London. Whose sister wants out of London'. I think I should have stopped reading at this point.
i) 'You are a marquess's son, but you will never be welcome by his peers. You were welcomed'.
Oh, and also the H climbs into h's bedchamber in the middle of the night and asks her to go down on him.
January 27, 2024
From the Amazon blurb: Before the Brazen Belle’s gossip column named him February’s rake, Dr. Hades Jones was the ton’s most trusted doctor, proper in every way but for his family’s scandalous past. But the rake the Belle named wasn’t him. It was someone wearing his distinctive silk-lined coat, which was stolen from him months ago. Now Hades is on the hunt for the coat thief, and what he finds in a Covent Garden alley is not what he expects—a woman with doe eyes, a steel spine, and a tart tongue he unexpectedly wants to taste.
Oh. The main characters are interesting enough and Hades mother and sister seem like people I wouldn't mind meeting. Orphelia's father is an ass, he mother sort of fades into the woodwork and her sisters (except for one scene at breakfast) are never seen and only mentioned in passing.
The setting is just kind of 'there'; I can't really picture it or get any kind of feel for where they are except for Hades little house/office and that's not particularly clear.
It's a fairly short book (about the same length as the ones in Ridley's "12 Dukes of Christmas" series but not nearly as much fun and much easier to put down. Sorry to say but this one's going to the library as, for me at least, it's a pretty decent 'one-time-and-never-again' read. Your mileage may differ.
Oh. The main characters are interesting enough and Hades mother and sister seem like people I wouldn't mind meeting. Orphelia's father is an ass, he mother sort of fades into the woodwork and her sisters (except for one scene at breakfast) are never seen and only mentioned in passing.
The setting is just kind of 'there'; I can't really picture it or get any kind of feel for where they are except for Hades little house/office and that's not particularly clear.
It's a fairly short book (about the same length as the ones in Ridley's "12 Dukes of Christmas" series but not nearly as much fun and much easier to put down. Sorry to say but this one's going to the library as, for me at least, it's a pretty decent 'one-time-and-never-again' read. Your mileage may differ.
June 12, 2024
2.5/3 Stars
"I’ve never felt like this before. It’s absurd, isn’t it? To meet a soul and know in an instant you want to know every corner of it."
Cute. This book was weirdly quirky but cute. Well written and unique. A tad predictable but interesting. I really liked the MCs even if the FMC was a bit frustrating at times regarding her distrust of men, despite it being perfectly understandable.
"I’ll hunt you down, Hades Jones, if you do not make me your wife."
Only a a few things like pacing and the transitions into the more intimate scenes bugged me as they felt like they didn't flow or make much sense to the timeline when they occurred. Otherwise a cute lighthearted read.
PS: Also the overuse of using the word Pudding! as an expletive was cringe and annoying. Not cute at all tbh.
"I’ve never felt like this before. It’s absurd, isn’t it? To meet a soul and know in an instant you want to know every corner of it."
Cute. This book was weirdly quirky but cute. Well written and unique. A tad predictable but interesting. I really liked the MCs even if the FMC was a bit frustrating at times regarding her distrust of men, despite it being perfectly understandable.
"I’ll hunt you down, Hades Jones, if you do not make me your wife."
Only a a few things like pacing and the transitions into the more intimate scenes bugged me as they felt like they didn't flow or make much sense to the timeline when they occurred. Otherwise a cute lighthearted read.
PS: Also the overuse of using the word Pudding! as an expletive was cringe and annoying. Not cute at all tbh.
May 28, 2024
Nice addition to the series! Virgin hero determined to do whatever it takes to gain the woman of his dreams, although she is distrusting of men. A rocky start soon gives way to a HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2024
Dr. Hades Jones's life and livelihood spiral downward faster than the frigid London temperatures when the Brazen Belle Scandal Sheet names him as the February Rake in the Rake Review, claiming he wears his signature greatcoat with the outrageous green lining when he abducts women for his harem, earning him the sobriquet The Devil Doctor. As the illegitimate son of a notorious Marquis, Hades has worked hard to prove himself to the ton and to rise above the circumstances of his birth, but when someone steals his coat and wears it while abducting women, who are never seen again, Hades isn’t about to stand by and take the blame. He tracks down the thief and demands the return of his coat – which as gaudy as it might be, was a gift from his sister. He grabs the culprit as he is leaving the theater with a woman and gets a shock when he turns out to be a she. A she who is unwilling to return the coat and a she that he knows – Lady Ophelia Howard, the eldest daughter of one of his former patients (thanks to her). She takes off with his coat and Hades plots revenge. He shows up at her home the next day and demands to speak to her father. He is further shocked when upon realizing that Hades has spoken the truth about Ophelia’s nocturnal activities, not only has her join them, but demands that they wed! Marriage to her would salvage his reputation if she agrees and refrains from causing any more scandals. No problem…right?
Lady Ophelia Howard has a secret that could ruin her if the truth ever got out, she spends many evenings dressed as a man rescuing women from untenable relationships and delivering them to a safe house known as Hawthorne House using the moniker Miss Chastity. She nicked the doctor’s coat one day while he was treating her mother and has been using it as part of her disguise with great success and was shocked when Hades caught her outside the theater with a pregnant actress she is helping escape. He holds her at sword point but is surprisingly supportive of her mission, too bad she can’t return his coat. She leaves believing that is the end of her association with the much too handsome doctor, so when he turns up at her house the next day and her father demands that she marry him, she is outraged and refuses to even consider it. But when Hades leaves and her father makes it clear that he is serious, either she marries or he will cut her off, Ophelia will have to find a way out of this betrothal or lose everything she has been working for. But when Hades comes a-courting, she wonders if it is possible to have it all.
This is a new-to-me author and I was intrigued by the blurb of this book, so I jumped at the chance to read it. I thought it was good, not great and not what I was expecting, but interesting and Hades was a wonderful hero who was very easy to like. For me, Ophelia was not likable for most of the book, while I respected her work, and commiserated about her limited opportunities, she came across as selfish and self-centered for most of the story, thankfully she realizes this and does make an effort to right things, especially when it mattered. The book moves at a good pace, has some funny moments, a few steamyish love scenes, and ends in a HEA, but not before throwing in a bit of over-the-top last-minute drama where the characters start to second-guess themselves for no good reason. Overall, it was a decent read, but not one I would read a second time. This is the second book in a connected, author collaboration series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title with no problem.
3 stars.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Lady Ophelia Howard has a secret that could ruin her if the truth ever got out, she spends many evenings dressed as a man rescuing women from untenable relationships and delivering them to a safe house known as Hawthorne House using the moniker Miss Chastity. She nicked the doctor’s coat one day while he was treating her mother and has been using it as part of her disguise with great success and was shocked when Hades caught her outside the theater with a pregnant actress she is helping escape. He holds her at sword point but is surprisingly supportive of her mission, too bad she can’t return his coat. She leaves believing that is the end of her association with the much too handsome doctor, so when he turns up at her house the next day and her father demands that she marry him, she is outraged and refuses to even consider it. But when Hades leaves and her father makes it clear that he is serious, either she marries or he will cut her off, Ophelia will have to find a way out of this betrothal or lose everything she has been working for. But when Hades comes a-courting, she wonders if it is possible to have it all.
This is a new-to-me author and I was intrigued by the blurb of this book, so I jumped at the chance to read it. I thought it was good, not great and not what I was expecting, but interesting and Hades was a wonderful hero who was very easy to like. For me, Ophelia was not likable for most of the book, while I respected her work, and commiserated about her limited opportunities, she came across as selfish and self-centered for most of the story, thankfully she realizes this and does make an effort to right things, especially when it mattered. The book moves at a good pace, has some funny moments, a few steamyish love scenes, and ends in a HEA, but not before throwing in a bit of over-the-top last-minute drama where the characters start to second-guess themselves for no good reason. Overall, it was a decent read, but not one I would read a second time. This is the second book in a connected, author collaboration series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title with no problem.
3 stars.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
February 23, 2024
Thanks to the author for a free ecopy of this book. I always love Charlie Lane’s books, and I loved this one, but it is more of a novella than a novel. What I’m saying is that although it was complete, it was too brief for me.
I liked the characters of Lady Ophelia Howard and Dr. Hades Jones (and I love that he named his horse Lucifer!). Ophelia is a strong, independent woman with trust issues because of her father and how she saw him treat his mistress and illegitimate son. She vows to help women escape bad situations and borrows Hades’s coat (while he’s treating her ill mother) to disguise herself in her endeavors. Unfortunately, his coat is a one-of-a-kind and someone sees “him” and warns that he is abducting women and taking them to his “harem.” He is dubbed the “Devil Doctor.” When he discovers that Ophelia is the reason for his sudden shunning by his clients, he demands recompense. Ophelia’s father offers her hand in marriage to repair his reputation.
But all is not as it seems, and her father’s motivations are far from honorable, confirming Ophelia’s unwillingness to trust him. Part of the problem is that Hades’ mother was once a debutante who was debauched by a rake and became pregnant. When she confronted him, he sent her away, but not before everyone in the ton knew what had happened and cut her out. She returned home to her father’s country estate where she married a young farmer (a lifelong friend), who adopted Hades. They had a daughter together and Hades is devoted to his very loving family, but because of the circumstances of his birth, he has always tried to find acceptance with the ton.
Hades and Ophelia are initially uncertain of the match and set out “tests” to determine if they are right for each other. On the day that Hades decides to take Ophelia with him on a housecall to see how she will act, and more specifically, if she can stay out of trouble, he takes off at a quick pace that she finds difficult to match. “She almost scoffed at the Devil Doctor. Would have had he not strode off and kept a demanding pace until they’d reached their destination. By that time, despite her long legs, her scoffing capabilities had been reduced to wheezing.”
Spending time with Ophelia makes him realize that something has been missing from his life and his pursuit of acceptance is a hollow goal. He resolves to make Ophelia trust him. They fall in love. One of the things I loved is that Hades’ background as both a bastard and a doctor has influenced him to never risk impregnating a woman. He understands all too well how the human body works and is unwilling to take unnecessary chances. However, that hasn’t diminished his curiosity, so he has experimented in other ways.
Like Ophelia, Hades is still a virgin, but that changes when they agree to marry. They don’t hold back and the description of Ophelia’s feelings was wonderful (especially when she’d been cautioned by her father’s mistress to never trust a man): “It did not feel like ruination. It felt as if a bit of her heart had hopped out of her chest and into his. It felt like the sharp prick of sorrow behind the eyes and like the champagne bubble of full-throated laughter. It felt like sunset and sunrise inside her body and like the world shrinking.”
I liked the characters of Lady Ophelia Howard and Dr. Hades Jones (and I love that he named his horse Lucifer!). Ophelia is a strong, independent woman with trust issues because of her father and how she saw him treat his mistress and illegitimate son. She vows to help women escape bad situations and borrows Hades’s coat (while he’s treating her ill mother) to disguise herself in her endeavors. Unfortunately, his coat is a one-of-a-kind and someone sees “him” and warns that he is abducting women and taking them to his “harem.” He is dubbed the “Devil Doctor.” When he discovers that Ophelia is the reason for his sudden shunning by his clients, he demands recompense. Ophelia’s father offers her hand in marriage to repair his reputation.
But all is not as it seems, and her father’s motivations are far from honorable, confirming Ophelia’s unwillingness to trust him. Part of the problem is that Hades’ mother was once a debutante who was debauched by a rake and became pregnant. When she confronted him, he sent her away, but not before everyone in the ton knew what had happened and cut her out. She returned home to her father’s country estate where she married a young farmer (a lifelong friend), who adopted Hades. They had a daughter together and Hades is devoted to his very loving family, but because of the circumstances of his birth, he has always tried to find acceptance with the ton.
Hades and Ophelia are initially uncertain of the match and set out “tests” to determine if they are right for each other. On the day that Hades decides to take Ophelia with him on a housecall to see how she will act, and more specifically, if she can stay out of trouble, he takes off at a quick pace that she finds difficult to match. “She almost scoffed at the Devil Doctor. Would have had he not strode off and kept a demanding pace until they’d reached their destination. By that time, despite her long legs, her scoffing capabilities had been reduced to wheezing.”
Spending time with Ophelia makes him realize that something has been missing from his life and his pursuit of acceptance is a hollow goal. He resolves to make Ophelia trust him. They fall in love. One of the things I loved is that Hades’ background as both a bastard and a doctor has influenced him to never risk impregnating a woman. He understands all too well how the human body works and is unwilling to take unnecessary chances. However, that hasn’t diminished his curiosity, so he has experimented in other ways.
Like Ophelia, Hades is still a virgin, but that changes when they agree to marry. They don’t hold back and the description of Ophelia’s feelings was wonderful (especially when she’d been cautioned by her father’s mistress to never trust a man): “It did not feel like ruination. It felt as if a bit of her heart had hopped out of her chest and into his. It felt like the sharp prick of sorrow behind the eyes and like the champagne bubble of full-throated laughter. It felt like sunset and sunrise inside her body and like the world shrinking.”
January 28, 2024
The Fake February Rake is the second in a multi author series called The Rake Review. It can be read as a stand alone as the only thing that connects the stories is that the heroes of each book feature in a gossip column by anonymous author the Brazen Belle outing them for their rakish behaviour.
February’s rake is Dr Hades Jones – formerly the Ton’s most trusted doctor. A reputation he has painstakingly built up despite his scandalous origins. So when he is denounced in print as being the mysterious man kidnapping women and adding them to his ‘harem’ with his distinctive coat cited as evidence, Hades must find the real culprit to prevent losing his livelihood.
When he discovers the coat thief and kidnapper is actually Earl’s daughter Lady Ophelia Howard, he has no choice but to stop her in any way he can – including notifying her father of his daughter’s nocturnal activities. To his shock, the Earl declares that Hades and Ophelia must marry. Hades will do anything to restore his reputation and will do all he can to convince Ophelia that a marriage of convenience will work.
Lady Ophelia has her reasons for helping women disappear from their abusive situations - she has seen first hand how selfish and destructive men can be. She can never trust a man to have complete control of her life which is what marriage would mean. But the more time she spends with Hades she realises that not only is Hades definitely not a rake, she might have finally found a man she can trust.
This was an enjoyable story of two people entering a relationship with little expectations and realising they have found their perfect partner. Ophelia is a strong and compassionate heroine. She fights injustice in her own way and has a lot of depth and courage. I like that she was willing to compromise with Hades about how involved she would be in future rescue missions instead of haring off on her own.
Hades was a wonderful hero. It made me smile that he thinks he is capable to resorting to rakish behaviour in order to ensure Ophelia agrees to marry him, but he practically asks her permission in every step of her seduction – something Ophelia herself picks up on. He respects Ophelia and gives her room to make her own decisions. His relationship with his mother and sister are lovely to see and his respect for women is evident in all his actions.
Hades and Ophelia are well matched and this is a sweet story. Both made compromises for each other and I love how ultimately Hades supported Ophelia and helped her keep a key role in the rescue missions.
I received an advanced review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am looking forward to the rest of the books in the series.
February’s rake is Dr Hades Jones – formerly the Ton’s most trusted doctor. A reputation he has painstakingly built up despite his scandalous origins. So when he is denounced in print as being the mysterious man kidnapping women and adding them to his ‘harem’ with his distinctive coat cited as evidence, Hades must find the real culprit to prevent losing his livelihood.
When he discovers the coat thief and kidnapper is actually Earl’s daughter Lady Ophelia Howard, he has no choice but to stop her in any way he can – including notifying her father of his daughter’s nocturnal activities. To his shock, the Earl declares that Hades and Ophelia must marry. Hades will do anything to restore his reputation and will do all he can to convince Ophelia that a marriage of convenience will work.
Lady Ophelia has her reasons for helping women disappear from their abusive situations - she has seen first hand how selfish and destructive men can be. She can never trust a man to have complete control of her life which is what marriage would mean. But the more time she spends with Hades she realises that not only is Hades definitely not a rake, she might have finally found a man she can trust.
This was an enjoyable story of two people entering a relationship with little expectations and realising they have found their perfect partner. Ophelia is a strong and compassionate heroine. She fights injustice in her own way and has a lot of depth and courage. I like that she was willing to compromise with Hades about how involved she would be in future rescue missions instead of haring off on her own.
Hades was a wonderful hero. It made me smile that he thinks he is capable to resorting to rakish behaviour in order to ensure Ophelia agrees to marry him, but he practically asks her permission in every step of her seduction – something Ophelia herself picks up on. He respects Ophelia and gives her room to make her own decisions. His relationship with his mother and sister are lovely to see and his respect for women is evident in all his actions.
Hades and Ophelia are well matched and this is a sweet story. Both made compromises for each other and I love how ultimately Hades supported Ophelia and helped her keep a key role in the rescue missions.
I received an advanced review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am looking forward to the rest of the books in the series.
November 24, 2024
I think I overhyped myself with this one. Mostly because of the cover (I know,
I know…
), but look how beautiful it is! The model really looks like a charming rake, and the pose only highlights that.
Not to mention, it's been a while since I saw a blonde hero on a historical romance’s cover. So, you understand, right?
The cover issue aside, unfortunately, the story was rather meh .
The premise seemed interesting, especially because the hero was a doctor - another rarity in HRs.
Sadly, the plot fell apart somewhere in the middle of the book, and the main interesting part - the heroine's nocturnal adventures - took a back stage to ongoing back and forth between her and Hades (that name, you guys!).
Which would not be such an annoying thing, if they had any chemistry together.
Most of their interactions were slightly awkward and the mutual attraction felt forced.
At first I thought their initial animosity would be a good banter fuel, as Hades seemed to be the teasing type, but rather quickly their playfulness together fizzled down.
Maybe the characters just didn't click for me.
The MMC’s personality was all over the place - at first he's a stoic, albeit charming fellow, suddenly he transforms into a sword wildling devil may cry, to then complain he needs to have spotless reputation, so no more of the risky shenanigans at night.
In the end, he allowed and encouraged risky shenanigans, so much so that he paid a visit to the heroine's chambers No, really.
The FMC, Lady Ophelia, was just mildly more put together. Although, she constantly couldn't decide if she wanted to rebel against societal norms, using marriage to Hades as a convenient cover up, *or* if her helping women in need was not as important as her doctor husband's work.
There were some interesting moments when Hades and Ophelia clashed over who's helping the needy more, and whether risking both of their reputations to help one woman in need is worth it, but in the end the conflict didn't really have a satisfying resolution.
I feel like, maybe, the book's length is at fault, and if there was more time to develop the plot and the relationship between the main couple, the story would be more enjoyable.
Unfortunately, compared to Jilted in January - an incredibly strong opening to The Rake Review series - this book fell short.
2/5 stars
Not to mention, it's been a while since I saw a blonde hero on a historical romance’s cover. So, you understand, right?
The cover issue aside, unfortunately, the story was rather meh .
The premise seemed interesting, especially because the hero was a doctor - another rarity in HRs.
Sadly, the plot fell apart somewhere in the middle of the book, and the main interesting part - the heroine's nocturnal adventures - took a back stage to ongoing back and forth between her and Hades (that name, you guys!).
Which would not be such an annoying thing, if they had any chemistry together.
Most of their interactions were slightly awkward and the mutual attraction felt forced.
At first I thought their initial animosity would be a good banter fuel, as Hades seemed to be the teasing type, but rather quickly their playfulness together fizzled down.
Maybe the characters just didn't click for me.
The MMC’s personality was all over the place - at first he's a stoic, albeit charming fellow, suddenly he transforms into a sword wildling devil may cry, to then complain he needs to have spotless reputation, so no more of the risky shenanigans at night.
In the end, he allowed and encouraged risky shenanigans, so much so that he paid a visit to the heroine's chambers No, really.
The FMC, Lady Ophelia, was just mildly more put together. Although, she constantly couldn't decide if she wanted to rebel against societal norms, using marriage to Hades as a convenient cover up, *or* if her helping women in need was not as important as her doctor husband's work.
There were some interesting moments when Hades and Ophelia clashed over who's helping the needy more, and whether risking both of their reputations to help one woman in need is worth it, but in the end the conflict didn't really have a satisfying resolution.
I feel like, maybe, the book's length is at fault, and if there was more time to develop the plot and the relationship between the main couple, the story would be more enjoyable.
Unfortunately, compared to Jilted in January - an incredibly strong opening to The Rake Review series - this book fell short.
2/5 stars
January 27, 2024
Thanks to the author for an ARC copy of this book. This is my freely given opinion.
Charlie Lane really does know how to write humorous, likeable characters with quirky, pithy dialogue. This is a really cute, light hearted, likeable story. Dr. Hades Jones is an ambitious doctor trying to get a foot in the door of the Ton to get ahead in his career, when it is sidelined by accusations of rakish, salacious behaviour and ill-deeds. Unfortunately, he is already tainted, being the base born son of a Marquess who took advantage of his mother, and then failed to behave honorably, ruining her reputation and standing. Despite this, he is actually a good guy, painted as bad, especially after his rather distinctive, flamboyant greatcoat was stolen and worn by some miscreant who has been seen whisking women off to not be seen again. This has lead to rank rumours and accusations of Hades Jones being an abductor of women, and having a harem, losing him all his clients and any entry into the homes of the Ton.
Lady Ophelia Howard is a young woman with a purpose in life, to save and protect women in London from being mistreated by scoundrels and rakes, especially having witnessed first hand what they can suffer when they lose the support of their protectors. She is also a determined spinster. On her way to action one day, she grabs the good doctors coat, as he was at her home on a house call, to disguise herself.
Hades, in trying to gain back not just his greatcoat, but his reputation, uncovers Ophelia's guise, and her actions, and exposes her to her family, which ends up with her father haranguing her into a betrothal/courtship with the doctor, to salvage his reputation (and force Ophelia into a marriage), and leads to Ophelia and Hades working together to help in her endeavours, but also to kibosh her father's underhanded plans for Ophelia as well.
Again, this is a cute, lighthearted romance with Hades being painted as a rake, but truly, he is a fake rake, nice guy, cinnamon roll hero given the short end of the stick, and a virgin hero to boot. Ophelia is a bit head strong and perhaps overly impulsive, and fights against any man trying to, in her eyes, be overbearing and constrain her - and that includes, initially, Hades as well. I quite liked this quirky romance, but I will say that the use of "pudding" as an expletive did get tedious in the end... but that would be part of the quirkiness.
3.75 stars out of 5
Charlie Lane really does know how to write humorous, likeable characters with quirky, pithy dialogue. This is a really cute, light hearted, likeable story. Dr. Hades Jones is an ambitious doctor trying to get a foot in the door of the Ton to get ahead in his career, when it is sidelined by accusations of rakish, salacious behaviour and ill-deeds. Unfortunately, he is already tainted, being the base born son of a Marquess who took advantage of his mother, and then failed to behave honorably, ruining her reputation and standing. Despite this, he is actually a good guy, painted as bad, especially after his rather distinctive, flamboyant greatcoat was stolen and worn by some miscreant who has been seen whisking women off to not be seen again. This has lead to rank rumours and accusations of Hades Jones being an abductor of women, and having a harem, losing him all his clients and any entry into the homes of the Ton.
Lady Ophelia Howard is a young woman with a purpose in life, to save and protect women in London from being mistreated by scoundrels and rakes, especially having witnessed first hand what they can suffer when they lose the support of their protectors. She is also a determined spinster. On her way to action one day, she grabs the good doctors coat, as he was at her home on a house call, to disguise herself.
Hades, in trying to gain back not just his greatcoat, but his reputation, uncovers Ophelia's guise, and her actions, and exposes her to her family, which ends up with her father haranguing her into a betrothal/courtship with the doctor, to salvage his reputation (and force Ophelia into a marriage), and leads to Ophelia and Hades working together to help in her endeavours, but also to kibosh her father's underhanded plans for Ophelia as well.
Again, this is a cute, lighthearted romance with Hades being painted as a rake, but truly, he is a fake rake, nice guy, cinnamon roll hero given the short end of the stick, and a virgin hero to boot. Ophelia is a bit head strong and perhaps overly impulsive, and fights against any man trying to, in her eyes, be overbearing and constrain her - and that includes, initially, Hades as well. I quite liked this quirky romance, but I will say that the use of "pudding" as an expletive did get tedious in the end... but that would be part of the quirkiness.
3.75 stars out of 5
February 1, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read by Charlie Lane and I really enjoyed reading it. The main male character Dr Hades Jones is a doctor to the ton. His reputation and appointment book are being ruined by a stranger who stole his very identifiable coat and is kidnapping women away, never to be heard from again. The gossip columns are writing about his supposed activities and the ton think he could be the Devil Doctor and aren’t calling for him to attend to them. He is tolerated by the ton due to his heritage, he is the illegitimate son of a marquess. Hades tracks down the culprit and is shocked to find that the kidnapper is a young woman and one he knows; Lady Ophelia Howard.
Lady Ophelia has been using the doctor’s coat as a disguise when she helps ordinary women escape from their difficult home situations to a place of safety. She doesn’t want to return the coat when Hades confronts her and escapes away with the coat and the young woman. Hades takes the situation into his own hands for the safety of Lady Ophelia and tells her father what she is doing. Her father insists that Ophelia must make amends for her behaviour and she should marry the doctor. She refuses but as they spend time with each other, her mind may be turned.
The storyline was a great read, Hades was a truly loveable character. He is such a good man who loves his family and doesn’t want anything to hurt them. He tries to protect the women of the ton because of the way they treated her mother. He’s supportive of Ophelia’s mission to help women in trouble but wants her to stop doing it on her own and have help.
Ophelia is a strong and independent woman who didn’t want to marry and have a man tell her how she is to behave. She cares about the lower classes. Especially women who get into pregnant from someone from the ton, who are usually discarded and left to fend for themselves and the baby. I love that both of Hades and Ophelia are virgins but there are steamy open door scenes between them as Hades has studied the art of pleasure and they are steamy! The secondary characters are great and really enhance the plot. This book is definitely on my to read again list.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys steamy historical romance with a great story and a HEA.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I’m leaving this review voluntarily. All views and opinions are my own.
Lady Ophelia has been using the doctor’s coat as a disguise when she helps ordinary women escape from their difficult home situations to a place of safety. She doesn’t want to return the coat when Hades confronts her and escapes away with the coat and the young woman. Hades takes the situation into his own hands for the safety of Lady Ophelia and tells her father what she is doing. Her father insists that Ophelia must make amends for her behaviour and she should marry the doctor. She refuses but as they spend time with each other, her mind may be turned.
The storyline was a great read, Hades was a truly loveable character. He is such a good man who loves his family and doesn’t want anything to hurt them. He tries to protect the women of the ton because of the way they treated her mother. He’s supportive of Ophelia’s mission to help women in trouble but wants her to stop doing it on her own and have help.
Ophelia is a strong and independent woman who didn’t want to marry and have a man tell her how she is to behave. She cares about the lower classes. Especially women who get into pregnant from someone from the ton, who are usually discarded and left to fend for themselves and the baby. I love that both of Hades and Ophelia are virgins but there are steamy open door scenes between them as Hades has studied the art of pleasure and they are steamy! The secondary characters are great and really enhance the plot. This book is definitely on my to read again list.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys steamy historical romance with a great story and a HEA.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I’m leaving this review voluntarily. All views and opinions are my own.
May 6, 2025
3.25 Stars!I wanted to like this a lot more, but Olivia frustrated me.
Olivia was just a selfish girl and honestly at the beginning, she was acting more like a spoiled child than someone who was trying to help. I don't think there was anything wrong with what she wanted to do exactly, but the way she went about it left a lot to be desired. Especially once Hades confronted her/found her out and all her internal monologue was "well he put a sword to my throat so why should I feel guilty?" when she literally was destroying his reputation/livelihood with what she was doing. She had to know the coat was recognizable, or at least figured it out after the Brazen Belle column so she should have pivoted. Commissioned another coat, stolen one from her father, something. If she'd even partially tried to make an effort in that direction, I might have been able to get behind her. But even after Hades sort of squashed her activities (because really beyond the damage to him, she was not being as smart as she could, all things considered), she also kept up her whole "I refuse to feel guilty about this" for too long.
Hades was pretty decent. I understand his frustration about Olivia's activities, especially since everyone blamed him only because of the coat. I did wish he hadn't let it go so easily. Granted, the story was shorter so it kind of makes sense but I just wish we'd gotten a bit more about it, considering the coat was such a big arrow pointing to him. I did like seeing him change his mind/realize what he'd really wanted in regards to the ton. I liked the way he cared for his mother and Lucy, and his father and grandfather as well, even if they weren't in the book. I will admit to laughing at the situation in Hyde Park when they ran into Olivia's "options" because he handled it quite well and got a puppy out of it!
Olivia's father seemed to be 2 different men. When he's first introduced, when Hades showed up at the house to offer marriage/reveal Olivia's nightly activities, he was gruff and everything but he seemed to sort of be trying to do what was best. Kind of making the best out of a not-so-good situation type thing. But then he presented Olivia with options and that felt like it came out of nowhere.
Overall, I really wanted to like this a lot more but just couldn't get past some of Olivia's actions. I might check out other books by this author at some point though.
February 2, 2024
The Fake February Rake opens with an intense scene that takes place in a dark alley between the Devil Doctor, Hades Jones and the man he assumes is the thief who stole from him. He makes a surprising discovery that spurs a determined decision resulting in an unexpected consequence. The story that develops between our two characters is fascinating and original! I was drawn in from the beginning as I read and I was charmed by the gentle, logical way that Dr. Hades Jones and Lady Ophelia Howard navigated their circumstances. An unanticipated twist causes both to reevaluate how they feel about each other and move them towards an important choice.
I must comment on the clever juxtaposition Charlie Lane created with Dr. Hades Jones' first name and the personality of the man answering to that name. Being named after Hell, the reader expects the bearer to have a disposition and traits reflecting that place. Instead, we meet a honest, intelligent man, born on the other side of the blanket who loves his mother and younger sister fiercely. Despite the circumstances of birth, Hades has become a sought after, compassionate doctor who listens to his patients. What a perfectly swoon worthy hero for Lady Ophelia. She is a headstrong, resourceful spinster whose distrust of all men effects every decision she has made. She has a secret purpose that drives her life that is now endangered by a chance encounter with Dr. Hades Jones.
I loved the respect that Hades has for Ophelia despite her disregard towards him. As they experienced each other's world, Ophelia begins to question her view of the man and he challenges her stubborn attitude while rattling her long held opinions in a very steamy library demonstration! It's a slow burn trope with a truly delightful ending.
Based on The Fake February Rake, I have discovered that Charlie Lane is a skilled author who writes characters that have hearts, and as her books unfold, she allows us to see their souls. Having just recently discovered her, I want to continue reading her stories, meeting the characters she creates and enjoying their journey to love.
I gave it 5 stars for the unique plot, the lovable characters and charming story.
I received an Advance Readers copy from the author and I am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.
I must comment on the clever juxtaposition Charlie Lane created with Dr. Hades Jones' first name and the personality of the man answering to that name. Being named after Hell, the reader expects the bearer to have a disposition and traits reflecting that place. Instead, we meet a honest, intelligent man, born on the other side of the blanket who loves his mother and younger sister fiercely. Despite the circumstances of birth, Hades has become a sought after, compassionate doctor who listens to his patients. What a perfectly swoon worthy hero for Lady Ophelia. She is a headstrong, resourceful spinster whose distrust of all men effects every decision she has made. She has a secret purpose that drives her life that is now endangered by a chance encounter with Dr. Hades Jones.
I loved the respect that Hades has for Ophelia despite her disregard towards him. As they experienced each other's world, Ophelia begins to question her view of the man and he challenges her stubborn attitude while rattling her long held opinions in a very steamy library demonstration! It's a slow burn trope with a truly delightful ending.
Based on The Fake February Rake, I have discovered that Charlie Lane is a skilled author who writes characters that have hearts, and as her books unfold, she allows us to see their souls. Having just recently discovered her, I want to continue reading her stories, meeting the characters she creates and enjoying their journey to love.
I gave it 5 stars for the unique plot, the lovable characters and charming story.
I received an Advance Readers copy from the author and I am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.
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