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Historical #2
Less Than a Gentleman
Sequel to The Forbidden Lady
In this never-before-published historical romance, New York Times bestselling author Kerrelyn Sparks returns to the 18th century, where the fight for freedom is as dangerous as the fight for love.
Between searching for the missing Munro sisters and South Carolina being all but lost to the British, Captain Matthais Thomas has more important things to worry about than finding a bride. But his mother has other ideas. When Matthais finds a beautiful woman in his bed who claims to be his betrothed, he is suspicious of her identity…and determined to discover the truth.
Caroline Munro had few options. The British burned down her home, and now, traveling with her very pregnant sister, Caroline is pretending to be someone she’s not so they can have a safe place to rest. But she didn’t count on a matchmaking matron or her rogue of a son…and certainly never dreamed she would fall in love with a spy.
In this never-before-published historical romance, New York Times bestselling author Kerrelyn Sparks returns to the 18th century, where the fight for freedom is as dangerous as the fight for love.
Between searching for the missing Munro sisters and South Carolina being all but lost to the British, Captain Matthais Thomas has more important things to worry about than finding a bride. But his mother has other ideas. When Matthais finds a beautiful woman in his bed who claims to be his betrothed, he is suspicious of her identity…and determined to discover the truth.
Caroline Munro had few options. The British burned down her home, and now, traveling with her very pregnant sister, Caroline is pretending to be someone she’s not so they can have a safe place to rest. But she didn’t count on a matchmaking matron or her rogue of a son…and certainly never dreamed she would fall in love with a spy.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2013
25 people are currently reading
766 people want to read
About the author
Kerrelyn Sparks
37 books5,780 followersKerrelyn Sparks apparently has issues with reality. After writing more than a dozen books about vampires, she has now completely gone off the deep end and wound up on another planet. But how thrilling that she can share this magical new world with her readers! Although she is best known (so far) for the Love at Stake series, which has hit as high as number 5 on the New York Times list and 22 on the USA Today list, she hopes her readers will love The Embraced as much as they did her merry band of vamps and shifters. To learn more about her paranormal, historical, and upcoming out-of-this-world fantasy romances, please visit Kerrelyn on Facebook, Twitter, or her website at www.kerrelynsparks.com.
Kerrelyn loves hearing from readers, even those who howl at the moon. Letters may be sent to P.O. Box 5512, Katy, TX 77491-5512. If you would like bookmarks and signed bookplates, please mail a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope to her P.O. Box, and she will send those items to you.
Kerrelyn loves hearing from readers, even those who howl at the moon. Letters may be sent to P.O. Box 5512, Katy, TX 77491-5512. If you would like bookmarks and signed bookplates, please mail a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope to her P.O. Box, and she will send those items to you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 20, 2015
Happy release day! Did you get your copy??
Playful, passionate, exciting… regardless of the genre, Kerrelyn Sparks sure can tell a story!
This is such a great historical romance! I love the Colonial America, Revolutionary War backdrop, and the mystery, the intrigue, the battles… everything about this drew me in and kept me turning the pages until the wee hours of the morning.
The story:
The British are gaining ground in South Carolina, and in their bloody attempt to win the war, burning everything in sight. Captain Matthais Murray Thomas is doing everything in his power to stop them, as well as protect the innocent colonists who find themselves at the mercy of the British. Clearly, Matthais has better things to worry about than taking a bride, much to his mother’s frustration, and since he won’t take the need to marry seriously, Jane does everything and anything she can to “help” him in along. And much to Matthais’s annoyance, she’s even stooped to inviting “suitable” women to stay at their plantation, and sleep in Matthais’s bed.
After the British burned down her home, Caroline Munro is a woman with a mission: get her very pregnant sister, and her niece and nephew to safety. Fortunately they find their way to the Loblolly Plantation where they have a safe place to rest awhile. Knowing that Captain Matthais Thomas was away fighting, Caroline didn’t think it was a problem to masquerade as his fiancée, but when Matthais arrives home unexpectedly and realizes that Caroline is not the woman she claims to be, he makes it his mission to learn all he can about this imposter while hiding his own identity from her.
My thoughts:
Kerrelyn Sparks writes exciting, funny, sexy, paranormal romances with her Love at Stake vampire series, and I’m here to tell you that this non-paranormal historical romance is just as exciting, just as funny, and just as sexy! And when I say funny, I mean I snickered, giggled, and even laughed out loud at some of the banter between characters. Matthais’s growing frustration with Caroline’s supposed deceptions and innocent double entendre references to “A small knob? A tiny twig, a wee button, a small prick?” made for some seriously funny reading.
But best of all? With Less Than a Gentleman, Ms. Sparks has proven herself to be one of the rare historical romance authors who can write outside of the same-old, same-old genre offerings - and do it well! There are others in this book who need their stories told, and I hope Ms. Sparks gives them their chance to speak, too. That would make me a very happy lady!
Note: I was excited to learn that this is the sequel to The Forbidden Lady, which was originally published as For Love or Country. As soon as I found that out, I bought it. That's how much I enjoyed Less Than a Gentleman!
My thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of this truly awesome story!
November 29, 2025
Caroline Munro, her pregnant sister and her 2 young children are trying to make their way to her father, an officer in the war against Britain. Their home has been burned and all their possessions have been stolen. Afraid for her family, Caroline approaches a plantation home that the British haven’t burned. The kind owner believes Caroline to be the attended bride for her son, Captain Matthais Thomas. Willing to do anything to save her family she pretends to be Matthais’s intended bride to be.
Captain Matthais Thomas has been charged with destroying the British trade and supply routes through the swamps in the south, getting married is the last thing on his mind. Finding a woman in his bed was a shock but discovering that she is an imposter pretending to be his intended bride...that is unacceptable. He pretends to be the butler and the sparks fly between “Thomas” and Caroline.
When the British take over the Thomas plantation, everyone must play the part to help stop the supplies but at great risk to themselves...if they are discovered they will all hang.
Less Than a Gentleman was a spicy historical romance with tons of romantic tension. Kerrelyn Sparks adds her signature fun/quirkiness to the characters giving this serious war time situation the perfect kick of humor. Although there is humor, hitting on difficult and horrific situations of war, slavery and bastard slave children, Sparks doesn’t shy away from the historical circumstances of the Revolutionary period.
Wonderful story telling by Kerrelyn Sparks, Less Than a Gentleman is sure to enrapture the historical fiction and romance reader alike.
I received this ARC copy of Less Than a Gentleman from HarperCollins - Avon in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication July 2, 2013.
Captain Matthais Thomas has been charged with destroying the British trade and supply routes through the swamps in the south, getting married is the last thing on his mind. Finding a woman in his bed was a shock but discovering that she is an imposter pretending to be his intended bride...that is unacceptable. He pretends to be the butler and the sparks fly between “Thomas” and Caroline.
When the British take over the Thomas plantation, everyone must play the part to help stop the supplies but at great risk to themselves...if they are discovered they will all hang.
Less Than a Gentleman was a spicy historical romance with tons of romantic tension. Kerrelyn Sparks adds her signature fun/quirkiness to the characters giving this serious war time situation the perfect kick of humor. Although there is humor, hitting on difficult and horrific situations of war, slavery and bastard slave children, Sparks doesn’t shy away from the historical circumstances of the Revolutionary period.
Wonderful story telling by Kerrelyn Sparks, Less Than a Gentleman is sure to enrapture the historical fiction and romance reader alike.
I received this ARC copy of Less Than a Gentleman from HarperCollins - Avon in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication July 2, 2013.
July 3, 2013
3.75 stars. I needed more ending on this one. Hope we get a 3rd book for Jacob.
June 21, 2015
The story begins with the hero, Matthias Murray Thomas, a Colonial soldier, being held captive by the British. Matthias and his fellow captives are able to outwit their captors and escape with the assistance of Colonel Francis Marion, the legendary Swamp Fox and Revolutionary War Hero (yes, I’m from South Carolina!). Colonel Marion gives Matthias the assignment of wreaking as much havoc as possible for the British. Matthias also receives another assignment, to locate the Munro sisters who first appeared in The Forbidden Lady for their father. Unfortunately both of these assignments will take Matthias close to his home and his mother who is an inveterate matchmaker. Even though he loves her dearly, he has no desire to marry…especially during wartime. Meanwhile, our heroine, Caroline Munro, her very pregnant sister Virginia and Virginia’s two young children are travelling west. Their home has been burned by the British and they are attempting to connect with their father James Munro. Disaster strikes and their horse as well as what little is left of their belongings and food are stolen from them. Plagued by uncertainty about their loved ones and with Virginia’s imminent delivery, miraculously they come across a large well-maintained house by the river. When Caroline knocks on the door, she is greeted by the mistress of the house who mistakes Caroline for the young lady she is hoping to match with her son. In order to assure her family of a safe harbor, Caroline pretends to be the young woman and suddenly finds herself in the midst of all sorts of intrigue.
This is a fun and lighthearted story even though it is set during a dark period in history. There are heroes and heroines, villains and villainesses and two very precocious children all of whom are constantly involved in mystery, intrigue and spying. Obviously the Munro sisters have a gift for spying since Virginia and her husband fell in love while spying together in The Forbidden Lady. And the attempts at spying are often hilarious, klutzy and reminiscent of Inspector Clouseau in the Pink Panther. Kerrelyn Sparks excels at sharp and witty dialogue and the exchanges between the worldly Matthias and the innocent Caroline are loaded with double entendre. And yes…there is definitely steam between Caroline and Matthias as they fight their growing attraction. Readers who love this author’s books will not be disappointed.
The story was a bit slow at first and I would have liked to see more character development up front. It took over half the book for me to really connect with the characters, but eventually I did and by the end of the book I was very caught up in the story. Certainly the door is open for a continuation of this series and I would love to see more from this author and these characters.
This is a fun and lighthearted story even though it is set during a dark period in history. There are heroes and heroines, villains and villainesses and two very precocious children all of whom are constantly involved in mystery, intrigue and spying. Obviously the Munro sisters have a gift for spying since Virginia and her husband fell in love while spying together in The Forbidden Lady. And the attempts at spying are often hilarious, klutzy and reminiscent of Inspector Clouseau in the Pink Panther. Kerrelyn Sparks excels at sharp and witty dialogue and the exchanges between the worldly Matthias and the innocent Caroline are loaded with double entendre. And yes…there is definitely steam between Caroline and Matthias as they fight their growing attraction. Readers who love this author’s books will not be disappointed.
The story was a bit slow at first and I would have liked to see more character development up front. It took over half the book for me to really connect with the characters, but eventually I did and by the end of the book I was very caught up in the story. Certainly the door is open for a continuation of this series and I would love to see more from this author and these characters.
July 9, 2013
I bought this book because I love Kerrelyn Sparks other books and also felt like reading something a little different from what I normally read. This did not disappoint.
Set in South Carolina during the Revolutionary War the story features two strong individuals, Caroline Munroe and Matthias Thomas, who are both trying to survive at the same time they are protecting their families.
There is a lot of Ms. Sparks' typical humor mixed in with the heartache of war. The main characters are very human and likeable. Their families are people you care about. The "bad guys" are ones that you hate almost immediately. The romantic scenes between Caroline and Matthias are full of very humorous innuendo and puns. Very funny!
I found all of the scenes revolving around the conflict between the colonials and the loyalists/British to be very realistic and believable. Even when the "enemy" is killed, the person doing the killing reflects soulfully on why it had to be done.
I especially liked the book because it had a lot of connections with the movie "The Patriot". It is set in the same area of South Carolina and it even has a cameo by Francis Marion whom Mel Gibson's character is modeled after. I've also been to most of the locations where the story takes place, or places that are mentioned, including Charleston, Georgetown SC and Williamsburg, VA.
I highly recommend this book.. it was a fast, fun and yet suspenseful story.
Epilogue Whore Alert: There was NONE! :( I had really hoped to find out a bit more about Caroline and Matthias, especially since the book ends almost a year before the Revolutionary War did. :(
Set in South Carolina during the Revolutionary War the story features two strong individuals, Caroline Munroe and Matthias Thomas, who are both trying to survive at the same time they are protecting their families.
There is a lot of Ms. Sparks' typical humor mixed in with the heartache of war. The main characters are very human and likeable. Their families are people you care about. The "bad guys" are ones that you hate almost immediately. The romantic scenes between Caroline and Matthias are full of very humorous innuendo and puns. Very funny!
I found all of the scenes revolving around the conflict between the colonials and the loyalists/British to be very realistic and believable. Even when the "enemy" is killed, the person doing the killing reflects soulfully on why it had to be done.
I especially liked the book because it had a lot of connections with the movie "The Patriot". It is set in the same area of South Carolina and it even has a cameo by Francis Marion whom Mel Gibson's character is modeled after. I've also been to most of the locations where the story takes place, or places that are mentioned, including Charleston, Georgetown SC and Williamsburg, VA.
I highly recommend this book.. it was a fast, fun and yet suspenseful story.
Epilogue Whore Alert: There was NONE! :( I had really hoped to find out a bit more about Caroline and Matthias, especially since the book ends almost a year before the Revolutionary War did. :(
July 6, 2013
Sometimes we need to leave our comfort zone, that little niche where we settle into so happily. I’m a picky reader you see; I want my men either in kilts waving claymores about or I want them to have some sort of fangs or horns with a supernatural power or a preternatural ability. Easy, right? Then, one of my favorite authors decided to write a book in a time and place that I just normally don’t enjoy! But I felt compelled beyond all reason to read it and was rewarded for taking a chance.
Less Than A Gentleman takes place in the Carolina colonies during the Revolutionary War. It begins as Matthias Murray Thomas and his men break free from the prison they were in, having to kill some of the guards and making a mortal enemy of one left alive. The Major who assisted in the rescue operation had two daughters that were left alone and he wanted Matthias to check in on them. One daughter had two young children and a third on the way, while the other, according to her father, could take care of herself! As Matthias set out on his mission, he kept looking for the women but found their home had been burned out and he feared them dead. Returning to his own home, Matthias discovered that the women were both safe and staying with his mother at his plantation. Caroline was there under the fake name Miss Agatha Ludlow pretending to be a woman there to marry Matthias.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
Less Than A Gentleman takes place in the Carolina colonies during the Revolutionary War. It begins as Matthias Murray Thomas and his men break free from the prison they were in, having to kill some of the guards and making a mortal enemy of one left alive. The Major who assisted in the rescue operation had two daughters that were left alone and he wanted Matthias to check in on them. One daughter had two young children and a third on the way, while the other, according to her father, could take care of herself! As Matthias set out on his mission, he kept looking for the women but found their home had been burned out and he feared them dead. Returning to his own home, Matthias discovered that the women were both safe and staying with his mother at his plantation. Caroline was there under the fake name Miss Agatha Ludlow pretending to be a woman there to marry Matthias.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
June 7, 2014
I really enjoyed this historical romance from Kerrelyn Sparks. I love history and she did a wonderful job of romance and the American Revolution. I loved the two main characters. Recommend.
March 24, 2020
Hand's down the best book Kerrelyn Sparks has written. I know that's gonna sound bias because I love all of her books...but this one just stands out. I don't even read historical romances but this one just...captured me! It was brilliant! From the high stakes plot, the beautiful romance, and witty double entendres throughout...I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful escape!
This follow-up to The Forbidden Lady sees the Munro sisters on the run from the redcoats. Virginia doesn't know what happened to her husband Quincy as he's yet to return from the sea leaving her with her two children and 9 months pregnant with their third. However, Caroline is determined to find safety for her sister and the kids so assumes the identity of another woman, the betrothed of plantation owner Matthias Thomas. But Matthias doesn't want to get married so cooks up a deception himself, posing as the butler to dissuade whom he thinks is a fortune hunter. Matthias is about to learn a lot about the Munro sisters however as they continue their bout into espionage when an army of Loyalists room with them at the plantation.
It was just...so well done, I found it hard to put down. Caroline was feisty and suave...but so unique from Virginia. The children were adorable and a welcome addition to the story. And Matthias was so dashing and charming! This was a fun book that ensnared me from the start. It was honestly perfect.
This follow-up to The Forbidden Lady sees the Munro sisters on the run from the redcoats. Virginia doesn't know what happened to her husband Quincy as he's yet to return from the sea leaving her with her two children and 9 months pregnant with their third. However, Caroline is determined to find safety for her sister and the kids so assumes the identity of another woman, the betrothed of plantation owner Matthias Thomas. But Matthias doesn't want to get married so cooks up a deception himself, posing as the butler to dissuade whom he thinks is a fortune hunter. Matthias is about to learn a lot about the Munro sisters however as they continue their bout into espionage when an army of Loyalists room with them at the plantation.
It was just...so well done, I found it hard to put down. Caroline was feisty and suave...but so unique from Virginia. The children were adorable and a welcome addition to the story. And Matthias was so dashing and charming! This was a fun book that ensnared me from the start. It was honestly perfect.
June 5, 2018
While there are Scots in this story it's secondary, lots of historical tidbits, it seemed a bit much sometimes. Likeable story. Cpver looks more modern than historic, so I didn't realize until I started reading that it was set in the revolutionary war period. Wartime is hard and vicious on everyone and yet they find love
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 4, 2025DNF.
I wasn't feeling anything. I liked the setting, truly, but I didn't feel a spark between the characters, not to mention I've never been one for Kerrelyn Sparks's writing. Funny and sexy isn't as nice as sensual and emotionally moving.
I wasn't feeling anything. I liked the setting, truly, but I didn't feel a spark between the characters, not to mention I've never been one for Kerrelyn Sparks's writing. Funny and sexy isn't as nice as sensual and emotionally moving.
August 14, 2018
It was nice.. I still prefer her paranormal gener more
January 21, 2019
A welcoming flood of historical information with a dash of romance to keep the book from being too heavy.
May 13, 2019
The heroine was a bit too daft for me.
July 13, 2013
Kitty‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review
5 STARS
It’s always nice to take a breather from Erotic/BDSM/Paranormal and lose yourself in a beautiful atruegemawardHistorical Romance. It makes you remember that, even during the worst of times, when life had people struggling, facing death and war, love could prevail. Well, can’t we all relate to this in present day America where we are still facing the same struggles? The silver-lining: LOVE.
The Setting: South Carolina, 1780. A time when America was fighting for it’s freedom from England.
The People: Redcoats and Loyalists fighting for the British. The Partisans and Militia fighting for their freedom. The innocent woman and children fighting to stay alive.
Captain Matthias Murray Thomas has been fighting for freedom for 4 years and has survived many battles. Now, his objective is to bring his men to safety, get them well again and keep fighting. While attempting this, he will also be on a mission to help Major Jamie Munro find his family and keep them safe. He’s sure that taking care of two woman will be the easy task after facing the Redcoats.
Caroline Munro is a very strong-willed woman with her own mission: Take care of the children, Edward and Charlotte; take care of her sister Virginia Stanton and her unborn child; and, find a way to make it back to her parents. Her father has been fighting against the Redcoats and she doesn’t know if him or her brother are even alive. Virginia’s husband, Quincy, is missing. Everyone is depending on her to make things right, protect them and get them to safety. What happens when she finds a beautiful plantation untouched by the war? Well, a series of lies, mishaps and match-making by one Jane Murray Thomas, Matthias’ mother.
The lies between Matthias and Caroline are outrageous but filled with humor. He doesn’t know how to control the little vixen when she sets out to spy on the Redcoats that have infiltrated his home. Caroline knows that “Haversham” cannot be a real butler and has something to do with the war. She just can’t figure out what is really happening with him. When the “real” Agatha Ludlow shows up at the plantation, Caroline has no recourse but to admit to her lies. But, to her surprise, Jane will not allow her or her family to leave.
I shouldn’t be surprised by what I will find in a Kerrelyn Sparks books. Whether it be vampires, shape-shifters or a handsome man fighting for freedom. She will always make me laugh, shed a tear and smile. Less Than an Gentleman was no exception. Honestly, you have no choice but to enjoy this book. It is so much more than just a romance. On the serious side, Ms. Sparks tackled what the South was known for in the 1700′s, slavery and the liberties that plantation owners took against them. She brought to the forefront that not everyone was for slavery and wanted them freed. It took Matthias a little while, but he finally accepted his half-brother and admitted that he had no desire to “own” him or the other slaves working for him. He despised his father for his treatment of woman, the slaves and his own family. Then on the fun side, the banter between Edward and Charlotte is classic, big brother/little sister, hijinks; Jane’s match-making attempts are hysterical and I loved how Matthias always took Caroline’s comments at face value, especially:
“He slid his hands to her waist and pressed her against him. Something jabbed at her, sharp and sudden.
“Ow!” She jumped back. The gown dropped to the floor.
“Are you all right?” he asked.
“Something poked me in the stomach.”
He stepped back into the shadows. “I—I beg your pardon.”
“It seemed awfully sharp.” She rubbed her belly. “And pointed.”
“Pointed?”
“Yes.” She considered the gown on the floor at her feet. “Oh, I know what it was.” She plucked the dress off the floor. “See the pin? Jane’s gown was too big around the waist for me, so we
pinned it.”
“I see.”
She suddenly felt the full impact of what she’d been doing with this man she hardly knew. Her face flooded with warmth, and she gave him a nervous smile. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to . . . end
things so abruptly.” He remained silent, hidden in the shadows.
“I’m quite all right,” she assured him. “ ’Twas naught but a small prick.”
“You don’t say.”
She wondered why his teeth sounded clenched.
“I bid you good night, Miss Munro.” His footsteps tapped
sharply, headed toward the door. Then she heard the door close.
He was gone.”
Poor Matthias, he never knew what was going to come out of Caroline’s mouth and he was always mortified and insulted when it did. But, true love, even through the war, self-doubt and meddling mothers, prevailed and I am sure that Matthias and Caroline lived happily ever after.
Review copy provided for an honest review
5 STARS
It’s always nice to take a breather from Erotic/BDSM/Paranormal and lose yourself in a beautiful atruegemawardHistorical Romance. It makes you remember that, even during the worst of times, when life had people struggling, facing death and war, love could prevail. Well, can’t we all relate to this in present day America where we are still facing the same struggles? The silver-lining: LOVE.
The Setting: South Carolina, 1780. A time when America was fighting for it’s freedom from England.
The People: Redcoats and Loyalists fighting for the British. The Partisans and Militia fighting for their freedom. The innocent woman and children fighting to stay alive.
Captain Matthias Murray Thomas has been fighting for freedom for 4 years and has survived many battles. Now, his objective is to bring his men to safety, get them well again and keep fighting. While attempting this, he will also be on a mission to help Major Jamie Munro find his family and keep them safe. He’s sure that taking care of two woman will be the easy task after facing the Redcoats.
Caroline Munro is a very strong-willed woman with her own mission: Take care of the children, Edward and Charlotte; take care of her sister Virginia Stanton and her unborn child; and, find a way to make it back to her parents. Her father has been fighting against the Redcoats and she doesn’t know if him or her brother are even alive. Virginia’s husband, Quincy, is missing. Everyone is depending on her to make things right, protect them and get them to safety. What happens when she finds a beautiful plantation untouched by the war? Well, a series of lies, mishaps and match-making by one Jane Murray Thomas, Matthias’ mother.
The lies between Matthias and Caroline are outrageous but filled with humor. He doesn’t know how to control the little vixen when she sets out to spy on the Redcoats that have infiltrated his home. Caroline knows that “Haversham” cannot be a real butler and has something to do with the war. She just can’t figure out what is really happening with him. When the “real” Agatha Ludlow shows up at the plantation, Caroline has no recourse but to admit to her lies. But, to her surprise, Jane will not allow her or her family to leave.
I shouldn’t be surprised by what I will find in a Kerrelyn Sparks books. Whether it be vampires, shape-shifters or a handsome man fighting for freedom. She will always make me laugh, shed a tear and smile. Less Than an Gentleman was no exception. Honestly, you have no choice but to enjoy this book. It is so much more than just a romance. On the serious side, Ms. Sparks tackled what the South was known for in the 1700′s, slavery and the liberties that plantation owners took against them. She brought to the forefront that not everyone was for slavery and wanted them freed. It took Matthias a little while, but he finally accepted his half-brother and admitted that he had no desire to “own” him or the other slaves working for him. He despised his father for his treatment of woman, the slaves and his own family. Then on the fun side, the banter between Edward and Charlotte is classic, big brother/little sister, hijinks; Jane’s match-making attempts are hysterical and I loved how Matthias always took Caroline’s comments at face value, especially:
“He slid his hands to her waist and pressed her against him. Something jabbed at her, sharp and sudden.
“Ow!” She jumped back. The gown dropped to the floor.
“Are you all right?” he asked.
“Something poked me in the stomach.”
He stepped back into the shadows. “I—I beg your pardon.”
“It seemed awfully sharp.” She rubbed her belly. “And pointed.”
“Pointed?”
“Yes.” She considered the gown on the floor at her feet. “Oh, I know what it was.” She plucked the dress off the floor. “See the pin? Jane’s gown was too big around the waist for me, so we
pinned it.”
“I see.”
She suddenly felt the full impact of what she’d been doing with this man she hardly knew. Her face flooded with warmth, and she gave him a nervous smile. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to . . . end
things so abruptly.” He remained silent, hidden in the shadows.
“I’m quite all right,” she assured him. “ ’Twas naught but a small prick.”
“You don’t say.”
She wondered why his teeth sounded clenched.
“I bid you good night, Miss Munro.” His footsteps tapped
sharply, headed toward the door. Then she heard the door close.
He was gone.”
Poor Matthias, he never knew what was going to come out of Caroline’s mouth and he was always mortified and insulted when it did. But, true love, even through the war, self-doubt and meddling mothers, prevailed and I am sure that Matthias and Caroline lived happily ever after.
December 26, 2016
This is set in a really turbulent time and the characters have gone through some horrendous stuff but it just didn't feel that way, I was being told about all the horrors they'd witnessed but I just didn't feel it. It felt like they were plying a game with all the spying and not really taking it that seriously. It was almost cartoonish how evil the 'bad guys' were- there's no depth to them, soldiers do terrible things at war time but there's still people (and something has driven them to it) and both sides committed horrific atrocities. It's fiction so it doesn't have to be accurate but it didn't feel real.
There's also a lot of coincidence in the book. Jamie asking Mattias to look for Caroline and Virginia, Caroline and Virginia just coming across his house jut when his mother was expecting guests and then him turning up the same day.
There's also a lot of coincidence in the book. Jamie asking Mattias to look for Caroline and Virginia, Caroline and Virginia just coming across his house jut when his mother was expecting guests and then him turning up the same day.
March 19, 2017
Really enjoyed this. Only part I didn't care for was the head hop to the villain - thought it slowed the story down. Otherwise, great, fun dialogue. Would like to see a book for 1/2 brother Jacob.
July 7, 2013
I figured with the long weekend and the kids out of the house (and some much needed time for myself) I would finish this book and write up my review. Less Than a Gentleman is a fast read but such a fun one! The thing I love about historical romances is that not only do you get a little piece of history but you also get the hero and the heroin and oh so much tantalizing romance.
I didn't stop reading this book in the first 75% of it. I couldn't put it down! But, with it being 5 am, I had to. The boys were going to be up soon and I knew I was going to need to be up with them. So I had to stop. But, first thing after breakfast I went at it for the last 25%.
The story goes the British are gaining ground in South Carolina, and in their bloody attempt to win the war, burning everything in sight. Captain Matthais Murray Thomas is doing everything in his power to stop them, as well as protect the innocent colonists who find themselves at the mercy of the British. Clearly, Matthais has better things to worry about than taking a bride, much to his mother’s frustration, and since he won’t take the need to marry seriously, Jane does everything and anything she can to “help” him in along. And much to Matthais’s annoyance, she’s even stooped to inviting “suitable” women to stay at their plantation, and sleep in Matthais’s bed.
After the British burned down her home, Caroline Munro is a woman with a mission: get her very pregnant sister, and her niece and nephew to safety. Fortunately they find their way to the Loblolly Plantation where they have a safe place to rest awhile. Knowing that Captain Matthais Thomas was away fighting, Caroline didn’t think it was a problem to masquerade as his fiancée, but when Matthais arrives home unexpectedly and realizes that Caroline is not the woman she claims to be, he makes it his mission to learn all he can about this imposter while hiding his own identity from her.
My thoughts on this book was it was very witty. And by witty I mean laugh out loud funny. I love it when a character says or does something that physically has me laughing. My husband always gives me the sideways glance like he doesn't want to look head on because he is afraid I've lost my mind! And in this, the conversations between the characters sometimes was busting my gut!
This book definitely gets 4 stars from me. I love that even though Ms. Sparks can write the hell out of a paranormal romance, she stepped outside the box and wrote this wonderful book of fiction. It wasn't your same old, same old kind of romance. It was funny, it was steamy, and oh so sexy! I mean, think about it, Captain Thomas? Lum Lum Lum (would be yum, yum, yum, but there is drool coming out of my mouth)!!!
I don't normally read historical romances only because they have the "historical" aspect. Now, don't get me wrong, I love a historical fiction. But, I always seem to fall short with historical romance because they are usually generalized around a past war or something similar. But, I would have to say for the first time, I wanted to hear more about the war and the action involved in it. Heck, sometimes I wanted to know more about that that what was going on in the bedroom! And trust me when I tell you that is rare! Ms. Sparks did an excellent job keeping me enthralled and on the edge of my seat. Hats off to you Ms. Sparks. I think I found a new favorite author!
I didn't stop reading this book in the first 75% of it. I couldn't put it down! But, with it being 5 am, I had to. The boys were going to be up soon and I knew I was going to need to be up with them. So I had to stop. But, first thing after breakfast I went at it for the last 25%.
The story goes the British are gaining ground in South Carolina, and in their bloody attempt to win the war, burning everything in sight. Captain Matthais Murray Thomas is doing everything in his power to stop them, as well as protect the innocent colonists who find themselves at the mercy of the British. Clearly, Matthais has better things to worry about than taking a bride, much to his mother’s frustration, and since he won’t take the need to marry seriously, Jane does everything and anything she can to “help” him in along. And much to Matthais’s annoyance, she’s even stooped to inviting “suitable” women to stay at their plantation, and sleep in Matthais’s bed.
After the British burned down her home, Caroline Munro is a woman with a mission: get her very pregnant sister, and her niece and nephew to safety. Fortunately they find their way to the Loblolly Plantation where they have a safe place to rest awhile. Knowing that Captain Matthais Thomas was away fighting, Caroline didn’t think it was a problem to masquerade as his fiancée, but when Matthais arrives home unexpectedly and realizes that Caroline is not the woman she claims to be, he makes it his mission to learn all he can about this imposter while hiding his own identity from her.
My thoughts on this book was it was very witty. And by witty I mean laugh out loud funny. I love it when a character says or does something that physically has me laughing. My husband always gives me the sideways glance like he doesn't want to look head on because he is afraid I've lost my mind! And in this, the conversations between the characters sometimes was busting my gut!
This book definitely gets 4 stars from me. I love that even though Ms. Sparks can write the hell out of a paranormal romance, she stepped outside the box and wrote this wonderful book of fiction. It wasn't your same old, same old kind of romance. It was funny, it was steamy, and oh so sexy! I mean, think about it, Captain Thomas? Lum Lum Lum (would be yum, yum, yum, but there is drool coming out of my mouth)!!!
I don't normally read historical romances only because they have the "historical" aspect. Now, don't get me wrong, I love a historical fiction. But, I always seem to fall short with historical romance because they are usually generalized around a past war or something similar. But, I would have to say for the first time, I wanted to hear more about the war and the action involved in it. Heck, sometimes I wanted to know more about that that what was going on in the bedroom! And trust me when I tell you that is rare! Ms. Sparks did an excellent job keeping me enthralled and on the edge of my seat. Hats off to you Ms. Sparks. I think I found a new favorite author!
March 14, 2014
Kerrelyn Sparks has veered out of her usual genre to write LESS THAN A GENTLEMAN, a romance novel set in Colonial America during the Revolutionary War.
Personal disclaimers: I've steered clear of Kerrelyn Sparks only because of her usual genre - vampires. (I'm not a vampire story kind of girl.) I've never before read her, although I'm well-acquainted with her name on book shelves. When I was given this book, I was hesitant, but when I read the cover copy, I was intrigued. I've never read a Revolutionary War romance novel; truthfully, they aren't usually on the forefront of bookstore shelves or in blog reviews that I've seen.
The story starts out fast, and continues that way throughout the novel. There's action - a lot of it - because the hero, Matthias, is fighting the Brits from the bogs of South Carolina. Sparks doesn't linger on the bloody scenes, but each time there is death (and there's a lot of it, much more than a typical romance novel), we're reminded how brutal a time it was. Rather than detract from the romance, these reminders actually helped me to believe these two characters could quickly fall in love - time was short and it was important.
Matthias is a complex hero, whose sense of honor is only trumped by the need to protect those he loves (including his mother - his relationship with her is one of the best mother-son ones I've ever come across in a novel). He's respectful, he's funny, and he's realistic.
Caroline is also one of the most realistic heroines I've come across in historical fiction. She's someone I'd want as a friend - determined, loyal, and fiercely protective of the ones she loves. She has extreme guilt about lying to the lady of the house (Jame Thomas, Matthias's mother) about her identity, and you can really feel it. But, you also understand why she's lying; Caroline is traveling with her very pregnant sister, and her niece and nephew. Protecting them comes before the truth.
I won't go into the plot very much, but I must say this was a well thought-out book. It was intriguing, it was smart, and it was exceptionally well-written. The characters stayed true to the time period without becoming overbearing; the descriptions of the redcoat/Colonial interactions kept pace with the plot and didn't wander into overly-historical territory. It's clear that Sparks researched the time period and the war, yet knew enough to include only those realistic details that would add to her story instead of overwhelm it.
The best thing about this book is that Sparks simply expected that I, the reader, am intelligent. This isn't a typical historical romance novel - it's a tribute to the type of men that lived and died for their country, and the women who dared to love them. Fantastic read - I strongly suggest it. (Especially if you've never read a Revolutionary War romance novel before!)
Disclaimer: I was provided an ARC by the publisher in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Personal disclaimers: I've steered clear of Kerrelyn Sparks only because of her usual genre - vampires. (I'm not a vampire story kind of girl.) I've never before read her, although I'm well-acquainted with her name on book shelves. When I was given this book, I was hesitant, but when I read the cover copy, I was intrigued. I've never read a Revolutionary War romance novel; truthfully, they aren't usually on the forefront of bookstore shelves or in blog reviews that I've seen.
The story starts out fast, and continues that way throughout the novel. There's action - a lot of it - because the hero, Matthias, is fighting the Brits from the bogs of South Carolina. Sparks doesn't linger on the bloody scenes, but each time there is death (and there's a lot of it, much more than a typical romance novel), we're reminded how brutal a time it was. Rather than detract from the romance, these reminders actually helped me to believe these two characters could quickly fall in love - time was short and it was important.
Matthias is a complex hero, whose sense of honor is only trumped by the need to protect those he loves (including his mother - his relationship with her is one of the best mother-son ones I've ever come across in a novel). He's respectful, he's funny, and he's realistic.
Caroline is also one of the most realistic heroines I've come across in historical fiction. She's someone I'd want as a friend - determined, loyal, and fiercely protective of the ones she loves. She has extreme guilt about lying to the lady of the house (Jame Thomas, Matthias's mother) about her identity, and you can really feel it. But, you also understand why she's lying; Caroline is traveling with her very pregnant sister, and her niece and nephew. Protecting them comes before the truth.
I won't go into the plot very much, but I must say this was a well thought-out book. It was intriguing, it was smart, and it was exceptionally well-written. The characters stayed true to the time period without becoming overbearing; the descriptions of the redcoat/Colonial interactions kept pace with the plot and didn't wander into overly-historical territory. It's clear that Sparks researched the time period and the war, yet knew enough to include only those realistic details that would add to her story instead of overwhelm it.
The best thing about this book is that Sparks simply expected that I, the reader, am intelligent. This isn't a typical historical romance novel - it's a tribute to the type of men that lived and died for their country, and the women who dared to love them. Fantastic read - I strongly suggest it. (Especially if you've never read a Revolutionary War romance novel before!)
Disclaimer: I was provided an ARC by the publisher in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
July 26, 2014
(Original post at Doing Some Reading)
I haven’t read any Historical from Kerrelyn Sparks until this one and it was a delight. This was a well and exciting read. I didn’t even know this was the second book or that there was a first Book! But I was sure happy because now I can read the first book about the elder sister and how her marriage came to be~ originally published as For Love or Country and republished as an Avon Impulse as The Forbidden Lady.
Captain Matthais Murry Thomas does not want to marry, ever! But his mother is a determined woman. She wants to find her only living son a bride, even if it means she has to order one. One evening while returning home from a nights mission against the British he stumbles upon a Lady in his bed. The only problem was she claimed to be his betroth, but he knows she’s a liar. So he plans to go undercover to confront the con lady and kick her and her family out of his family home. But an obstacle got in the way, he was falling for the red headed vixen! And she was the lady he promised to find and protect, a Miss Caroline Munro. But he himself has secrets too, he was also lying to the lady. She though him as a penniless butler, named Haversham, and he wants her to love him as him, not a wealthy son of a plantation with slaves. The bigger problem is, is he willing to fight for freedom and lose her due to the war or fight for freedom and for love?
Caroline Munro is a loose tongue. She speaks her mind and don’t follow orders is easily. Withe her father missing or dead on the battle field, she fears that her brother-in-law is also dead at sea. She’s doing her best to keep her head on straight and protect her very pregnant sister and her young nephew and niece from the war. Taking shelter at Loblolly House under the disguise as the betroth of the son of the house, she is well safe from harm, for now. Until the so call butler of the house broke into her room. But all is well, he’s no danger to her or her family as she learned to trust him. But she doesn’t want to fall for the handsome and secretive butler no matter how much he pulls at her heart. She didn’t want to deal with heart ache once again, but he wasn’t a soldier so all is well, right?
This was a sweet romance! I loved how there was action, secrets, humor! I most definitely enjoyed the humor. Especially when Matt and Caroline are at the edges of becoming intimate. Both the characters are very likable and Matthais is just~ swoon worthy! Though at time Caroline poked at my sides in irritation- mostly towards the end- I still adore her as a strong independent and intelligent woman.
This eARC was provided by the publisher through Edelweiss.
I haven’t read any Historical from Kerrelyn Sparks until this one and it was a delight. This was a well and exciting read. I didn’t even know this was the second book or that there was a first Book! But I was sure happy because now I can read the first book about the elder sister and how her marriage came to be~ originally published as For Love or Country and republished as an Avon Impulse as The Forbidden Lady.
Captain Matthais Murry Thomas does not want to marry, ever! But his mother is a determined woman. She wants to find her only living son a bride, even if it means she has to order one. One evening while returning home from a nights mission against the British he stumbles upon a Lady in his bed. The only problem was she claimed to be his betroth, but he knows she’s a liar. So he plans to go undercover to confront the con lady and kick her and her family out of his family home. But an obstacle got in the way, he was falling for the red headed vixen! And she was the lady he promised to find and protect, a Miss Caroline Munro. But he himself has secrets too, he was also lying to the lady. She though him as a penniless butler, named Haversham, and he wants her to love him as him, not a wealthy son of a plantation with slaves. The bigger problem is, is he willing to fight for freedom and lose her due to the war or fight for freedom and for love?
Caroline Munro is a loose tongue. She speaks her mind and don’t follow orders is easily. Withe her father missing or dead on the battle field, she fears that her brother-in-law is also dead at sea. She’s doing her best to keep her head on straight and protect her very pregnant sister and her young nephew and niece from the war. Taking shelter at Loblolly House under the disguise as the betroth of the son of the house, she is well safe from harm, for now. Until the so call butler of the house broke into her room. But all is well, he’s no danger to her or her family as she learned to trust him. But she doesn’t want to fall for the handsome and secretive butler no matter how much he pulls at her heart. She didn’t want to deal with heart ache once again, but he wasn’t a soldier so all is well, right?
This was a sweet romance! I loved how there was action, secrets, humor! I most definitely enjoyed the humor. Especially when Matt and Caroline are at the edges of becoming intimate. Both the characters are very likable and Matthais is just~ swoon worthy! Though at time Caroline poked at my sides in irritation- mostly towards the end- I still adore her as a strong independent and intelligent woman.
This eARC was provided by the publisher through Edelweiss.
July 5, 2013
There are so many historical romance authors out there, and I absolutely love finding new ones to fall in love with. This is the first book I've ever read by Kerrelyn Sparks and let me tell you, her books have definitely become a newfound love of mine!
Captain Matthais Thomas is a soldier down to his core. In between fighting the British and trying to track down two missing sisters, there's really no more room to think about anything else, especially when it comes to romance. But his mother has other ideas. When Caroline shows up at his mother's plantation home with her pregnant sister and sister's two kids claiming to be the woman his mother asked to come be his bride, things get a little hairy. This fiery woman is definitely not the same spoiled girl Matthais remembers from his childhood, and he soon figures out Caroline isn't who she says she is. But as she starts to become more involved in his plots against the British, Matthais finds himself constantly thinking about the stubborn redhead who has promised to never love a soldier again.
Oh my gosh, where to start? I'm normally not a big fan of American historical fiction about the colonial days, but I could not put this book down! And it wasn't even the romance that made this book so interesting (though that did help), but it was the whole war aspect. I loved how there were secret passages and Mattais was basically a spy trying to get information from the redcoats. There wasn't a whole lot of the fighting on the battlefield either, which I really liked because I'm not a big fan of that side of war in my romances. The opening scene did drop you right into the middle of some serious war action, but that just made the book hook you from the start.
But let's get to the romance. The chemistry between Matthais and Caroline was so strong and watching them fall for each other was just so gosh darn cute. I loved how Caroline thought Matthais was a butler, and when she talked about him to others, it was so funny their little sarcastic reactions that she didn't catch on to. How she falls for Matthais really shows her feelings are genuine, which makes you root for their relationship even more.
So if you haven't read anything by Kerrelyn Sparks, I would definitely recommend picking this one up. Even if you're not a big fan of the American historical romance genre, this one will grab you from the start and have you caring for the characters as if they're people you actually know. There's action, secrets, and, of course, romance. What more could you want in a book?
Captain Matthais Thomas is a soldier down to his core. In between fighting the British and trying to track down two missing sisters, there's really no more room to think about anything else, especially when it comes to romance. But his mother has other ideas. When Caroline shows up at his mother's plantation home with her pregnant sister and sister's two kids claiming to be the woman his mother asked to come be his bride, things get a little hairy. This fiery woman is definitely not the same spoiled girl Matthais remembers from his childhood, and he soon figures out Caroline isn't who she says she is. But as she starts to become more involved in his plots against the British, Matthais finds himself constantly thinking about the stubborn redhead who has promised to never love a soldier again.
Oh my gosh, where to start? I'm normally not a big fan of American historical fiction about the colonial days, but I could not put this book down! And it wasn't even the romance that made this book so interesting (though that did help), but it was the whole war aspect. I loved how there were secret passages and Mattais was basically a spy trying to get information from the redcoats. There wasn't a whole lot of the fighting on the battlefield either, which I really liked because I'm not a big fan of that side of war in my romances. The opening scene did drop you right into the middle of some serious war action, but that just made the book hook you from the start.
But let's get to the romance. The chemistry between Matthais and Caroline was so strong and watching them fall for each other was just so gosh darn cute. I loved how Caroline thought Matthais was a butler, and when she talked about him to others, it was so funny their little sarcastic reactions that she didn't catch on to. How she falls for Matthais really shows her feelings are genuine, which makes you root for their relationship even more.
So if you haven't read anything by Kerrelyn Sparks, I would definitely recommend picking this one up. Even if you're not a big fan of the American historical romance genre, this one will grab you from the start and have you caring for the characters as if they're people you actually know. There's action, secrets, and, of course, romance. What more could you want in a book?
July 4, 2013
Review from Backchatting Books
I am so very glad Sparks has temporarily turned her pen towards historical romance because this was a highly enjoyable read. Caroline Munro is determined to find a safe haven for her heavily pregnant sister Virginia, niece and nephew after the British burned down their home. Caroline plays along when Jane Thomas, mistress of Loblolly Plantation mistakes Caroline for her son’s intended. Captain Matthias Thomas has no interest in getting married and thinks the woman in his bed is trying to entrap him. Matthias should be focussing all his attention on disrupting the British supply line but Caroline is incredibly distracting.
Matthias may be the only heir to a large plantation but he is determined to fight for freedom. In the opening scene he bamboozles British guards with a full chamber pot of all things. Clearly the man has a sense of whimsy to go with his quick wit. He conceals his real identity from Catherine for far too long because he is enjoying being with someone who is interested in him and not his wealth. Naturally this comes back to bite him, rather like Catherine did when they first met. Caroline was a treat as she was stubborn, independent and clever, in other words, the perfect match for Matthias. In situations where normal women would be having a fit of the vapours, she is scheming to pass on important info to the rebels or protect her family. She may be thoroughly modern but she is still thoroughly enjoyable to watch in action. The initial interactions between Caroline and Matthias are farcical and I could not stop giggling and snorting in a most unladylike fashion.
Sparks clearly did her research on the Revolutionary War but resists the urge to info dump. The ugly side of slavery is addressed but it is cleared up a little too quickly for my liking. Political correctness ends up ruling the day even though it probably wouldn’t have back then. This was most likely done to suit modern sensibilities. Both the serious side of war and the lighter, humorous side of falling in love are painted with deft strokes.
This is a thoroughly entertaining romp through the Revolutionary War. Highly recommended.
I am so very glad Sparks has temporarily turned her pen towards historical romance because this was a highly enjoyable read. Caroline Munro is determined to find a safe haven for her heavily pregnant sister Virginia, niece and nephew after the British burned down their home. Caroline plays along when Jane Thomas, mistress of Loblolly Plantation mistakes Caroline for her son’s intended. Captain Matthias Thomas has no interest in getting married and thinks the woman in his bed is trying to entrap him. Matthias should be focussing all his attention on disrupting the British supply line but Caroline is incredibly distracting.
Matthias may be the only heir to a large plantation but he is determined to fight for freedom. In the opening scene he bamboozles British guards with a full chamber pot of all things. Clearly the man has a sense of whimsy to go with his quick wit. He conceals his real identity from Catherine for far too long because he is enjoying being with someone who is interested in him and not his wealth. Naturally this comes back to bite him, rather like Catherine did when they first met. Caroline was a treat as she was stubborn, independent and clever, in other words, the perfect match for Matthias. In situations where normal women would be having a fit of the vapours, she is scheming to pass on important info to the rebels or protect her family. She may be thoroughly modern but she is still thoroughly enjoyable to watch in action. The initial interactions between Caroline and Matthias are farcical and I could not stop giggling and snorting in a most unladylike fashion.
Sparks clearly did her research on the Revolutionary War but resists the urge to info dump. The ugly side of slavery is addressed but it is cleared up a little too quickly for my liking. Political correctness ends up ruling the day even though it probably wouldn’t have back then. This was most likely done to suit modern sensibilities. Both the serious side of war and the lighter, humorous side of falling in love are painted with deft strokes.
This is a thoroughly entertaining romp through the Revolutionary War. Highly recommended.
July 15, 2013
So confession: I've never read one of Kerrelyn Sparks' books before. I hear her adult urban fantasy/paranormal romance books are really good, but it's not really my genre so I hadn't picked it up before. But this foray into historical romance IS right up my alley!
I love the plotline of Caroline pretending to be the bride Matthais' mother sent for and then being rudely awoken in the night by said fake fiancé because she's sleeping in HIS bed. Because his mother put her there. Seriously, his mother may seem like a sweet little lady, but she's constantly plotting to get these two in a compromising situation and it was AWESOME. I laughed so hard! Though how Matthais continually failed to see her plotting ways is beyond me, he just continued to blunder into Caroline's bedroom, no matter if she'd changed bedrooms.
I liked Caroline's spirit. She's determined to take care of her family and doesn't care if she hurts herself in the process. I could understand her not really wanting to get involved with a soldier, she had a solid reason, but it's slightly unrealistic in the time she was living in to find a man who has NOTHING whatsoever to do with the war. I mean, seriously? I think pretty much EVERY man was drafted into fighting.
I did want to slap Matthais a couple of times because he keeps LYING to Caroline and the moment that she finds out how much he's been lying was pretty devastating. I actually thought she forgave him a little too easily, because for all that she's decided she won't get involved with a military man, she's awfully quick to go 'oh, well, you're not only a military man but also a spy, FINE' and that's aside from forgiving him for lying to her. I think that was my biggest problem, he's been completely dishonest with her and then POOF! all is out and forgiven. Maybe I'm just not a very nice person, but I would have made him grovel some more.
I did really like Kerrelyn Sparks' writing style and it was a pretty quick read for me. The romance was sweet and I laughed at the antics of Matthais' mother, she was fantastic! And I really loved Caroline's family!
My rating: 3 stars
I love the plotline of Caroline pretending to be the bride Matthais' mother sent for and then being rudely awoken in the night by said fake fiancé because she's sleeping in HIS bed. Because his mother put her there. Seriously, his mother may seem like a sweet little lady, but she's constantly plotting to get these two in a compromising situation and it was AWESOME. I laughed so hard! Though how Matthais continually failed to see her plotting ways is beyond me, he just continued to blunder into Caroline's bedroom, no matter if she'd changed bedrooms.
I liked Caroline's spirit. She's determined to take care of her family and doesn't care if she hurts herself in the process. I could understand her not really wanting to get involved with a soldier, she had a solid reason, but it's slightly unrealistic in the time she was living in to find a man who has NOTHING whatsoever to do with the war. I mean, seriously? I think pretty much EVERY man was drafted into fighting.
I did want to slap Matthais a couple of times because he keeps LYING to Caroline and the moment that she finds out how much he's been lying was pretty devastating. I actually thought she forgave him a little too easily, because for all that she's decided she won't get involved with a military man, she's awfully quick to go 'oh, well, you're not only a military man but also a spy, FINE' and that's aside from forgiving him for lying to her. I think that was my biggest problem, he's been completely dishonest with her and then POOF! all is out and forgiven. Maybe I'm just not a very nice person, but I would have made him grovel some more.
I did really like Kerrelyn Sparks' writing style and it was a pretty quick read for me. The romance was sweet and I laughed at the antics of Matthais' mother, she was fantastic! And I really loved Caroline's family!
My rating: 3 stars
June 23, 2013
Patriotism, history, spies and romance: what more could you want? This story by Kerrelyn Sparks has all of that and more, and told using sublime characters that bring the story to life.
Caroline is completely adorable, you can’t help but like her as her goal is to protect her family: at all costs. She is smart and clever, with an independent streak a mile long. Her assumption of Agatha’s identity, although not honest, was done with the best intentions: the first encounters with Matthias are laugh out loud funny.
Matthias is equally attractive, aside from his unwillingness and later inability to share his real identity with Caroline: despite the fact that he cannot pass long moments without thinking of her. Heir to the plantation and the slaves held there: although he wants no part of it. A recurring nightmare from childhood and the loveless attitude of his father to his mother have soured him on the idea of marriage and children.
This is a historical romance that is well-grounded in the facts of the history, without becoming overwhelmingly factual or dry. Characters maintain a sense of the time, conversations, thoughts and behavioral standards of “appropriate” are all given their just due, yet there is no feeling for the reader that this is a lesson. Everything flows in a natural and smooth manner. Loaded with action and adventures for the characters increases both the tension and pacing, there were several points where I could only hold my breath as the confrontations came to a climax. These are real people, well portrayed with faults and baggage that they must learn to work with or around to finally have their happy ending.
Particularly satisfying is the multiple happy endings afforded many of the characters: without overwhelming us with history and other trivia, Sparks used her research to enhance the story and provide an enjoyable look at people who could have existed years ago, and the love and families they fought for.
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Caroline is completely adorable, you can’t help but like her as her goal is to protect her family: at all costs. She is smart and clever, with an independent streak a mile long. Her assumption of Agatha’s identity, although not honest, was done with the best intentions: the first encounters with Matthias are laugh out loud funny.
Matthias is equally attractive, aside from his unwillingness and later inability to share his real identity with Caroline: despite the fact that he cannot pass long moments without thinking of her. Heir to the plantation and the slaves held there: although he wants no part of it. A recurring nightmare from childhood and the loveless attitude of his father to his mother have soured him on the idea of marriage and children.
This is a historical romance that is well-grounded in the facts of the history, without becoming overwhelmingly factual or dry. Characters maintain a sense of the time, conversations, thoughts and behavioral standards of “appropriate” are all given their just due, yet there is no feeling for the reader that this is a lesson. Everything flows in a natural and smooth manner. Loaded with action and adventures for the characters increases both the tension and pacing, there were several points where I could only hold my breath as the confrontations came to a climax. These are real people, well portrayed with faults and baggage that they must learn to work with or around to finally have their happy ending.
Particularly satisfying is the multiple happy endings afforded many of the characters: without overwhelming us with history and other trivia, Sparks used her research to enhance the story and provide an enjoyable look at people who could have existed years ago, and the love and families they fought for.
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
August 7, 2013
Less Than a Gentleman takes place in South Carolina during the Revolutionary War as the British were making their way through the countryside taking whatever they wished. I have not read a historical set in this time period for many years and I definitely enjoyed the change.
Captain Matthias Murray Thomas was held by the British for a short while and with help, his group escapes, he meets up with a Scotsman named Jamie Munro, a major in the army who is worried about his daughters, Virginia Stanton and Caroline Munro. He asks Matt to keep an eye out for them and to send word if he sees them.
The sisters have been walking and hiding from the British in the countryside for several days. They finally come across a large home and seek help for the two kids, Charlotte and Edward and the very pregnant Virginia. Jane, the woman of the house quickly brings them in, at first thinking Caroline is another neighbor, she quickly realizes her mistake but she is desperate to marry off her son and takes a liking to the little family so keeps the ruse going.
Jane is Matt's mother and lives at Loblolly Plantation with a few remaining servants but she is lonely and although Matt comes home to visit and check on her, he leaves each night to go back to his troops in the woods. When he meets the sisters he wants to know what Caroline is up to so he pretends he is the butler, Haversham. Matt realizes Caroline is Munro’s daughters and is intrigued by her but because she refuses to fall for anyone who is a soldier he keeps his identity a secret from her.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Review copy from publisher through Edelweiss for an honest review
Captain Matthias Murray Thomas was held by the British for a short while and with help, his group escapes, he meets up with a Scotsman named Jamie Munro, a major in the army who is worried about his daughters, Virginia Stanton and Caroline Munro. He asks Matt to keep an eye out for them and to send word if he sees them.
The sisters have been walking and hiding from the British in the countryside for several days. They finally come across a large home and seek help for the two kids, Charlotte and Edward and the very pregnant Virginia. Jane, the woman of the house quickly brings them in, at first thinking Caroline is another neighbor, she quickly realizes her mistake but she is desperate to marry off her son and takes a liking to the little family so keeps the ruse going.
Jane is Matt's mother and lives at Loblolly Plantation with a few remaining servants but she is lonely and although Matt comes home to visit and check on her, he leaves each night to go back to his troops in the woods. When he meets the sisters he wants to know what Caroline is up to so he pretends he is the butler, Haversham. Matt realizes Caroline is Munro’s daughters and is intrigued by her but because she refuses to fall for anyone who is a soldier he keeps his identity a secret from her.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Review copy from publisher through Edelweiss for an honest review
July 11, 2013
I don't know about you but when I think of romantic time periods I don't usually think about the Revolutionary War; but maybe that's just me... After reading Less than a Gentleman that opinion has been changed because the Revolutionary War can be romantic and action packed.
Caroline is not to be trifled with. She is a strong-willed and courageous woman who does what she has to do keep her family safe. Even lying about being someone else to get shelter. I mean a girl has gotta do what a girl has gotta do. Granted she does feel terrible about it.
Speaking of lying there is quite a bit of lying in Less Than a Gentleman. Most of it is well founded and understandable. But at one point I was yelling at a character to just tell the truth already. Of course they didn't listen to me, not that I honestly thought they would.
The romantic scenes were HOT, obviously because this is a romance novel. But they were not too over the top so if you are not into the explicit this book is for you.
One thing that I was really surprised about was how much action there was in Less Than a Gentleman. This is not a romance that takes place in drawing rooms and stately mansions. Though there are drawing rooms and a plantation this book mostly takes place in mills, secret passageways, swamps, and docks. And don't you think for a moment that Caroline is going to let the boys have all the fun. She can hold her own against the British.
Even though I enjoyed the whole book my favorite part was the secondary characters. From Dottie and Becky to Charlotte and Jacob all the characters added so much to this story and really fleshed it out. There are no characters that are gratuitous, and they will make you fall in love with them.
Basically if you are a fan of historical romance or romance in general you should read Less Than a Gentleman.
Caroline is not to be trifled with. She is a strong-willed and courageous woman who does what she has to do keep her family safe. Even lying about being someone else to get shelter. I mean a girl has gotta do what a girl has gotta do. Granted she does feel terrible about it.
Speaking of lying there is quite a bit of lying in Less Than a Gentleman. Most of it is well founded and understandable. But at one point I was yelling at a character to just tell the truth already. Of course they didn't listen to me, not that I honestly thought they would.
The romantic scenes were HOT, obviously because this is a romance novel. But they were not too over the top so if you are not into the explicit this book is for you.
One thing that I was really surprised about was how much action there was in Less Than a Gentleman. This is not a romance that takes place in drawing rooms and stately mansions. Though there are drawing rooms and a plantation this book mostly takes place in mills, secret passageways, swamps, and docks. And don't you think for a moment that Caroline is going to let the boys have all the fun. She can hold her own against the British.
Even though I enjoyed the whole book my favorite part was the secondary characters. From Dottie and Becky to Charlotte and Jacob all the characters added so much to this story and really fleshed it out. There are no characters that are gratuitous, and they will make you fall in love with them.
Basically if you are a fan of historical romance or romance in general you should read Less Than a Gentleman.
April 28, 2016
I don't really read many books set in this time period/set in America. I'll admit it, most of my historical fiction is set in Scotland (wide range of times) or England (mainly regency or victorian eras). I like my little niche and rarely venture out of it. But I really loved this book. In fact I think I may love it more than the first book.
I think I am in love with Matthais. He has that right blend of everything I love in my romance novel heroes and is still fresh enough that he doesn't feel like just a blend of traits. But I think the most surprising of all the characters was Caroline. I wasn't so sure of her based on the last book. But she really won me over. Her strength was inspiring. I'm not sure I could manage to hold everything together like she did and still have the desire/ability to fall in love in such a dangerous situation.
The story itself has the right blend of historical influence, romantic plot, family love, and humor. I really love Kerrelyn Sparks books ever since the moment Ian stole my heart in
(Saw the book in the checkout line at Sams Club and it had to come home with me. The next day the rest of the series that was out also jumped into my cart to come home with me.) Whether it is historical or paranormal romance, I haven't come across a single book by this author that failed to amuse/entertain/aw me.
I think I am in love with Matthais. He has that right blend of everything I love in my romance novel heroes and is still fresh enough that he doesn't feel like just a blend of traits. But I think the most surprising of all the characters was Caroline. I wasn't so sure of her based on the last book. But she really won me over. Her strength was inspiring. I'm not sure I could manage to hold everything together like she did and still have the desire/ability to fall in love in such a dangerous situation.
The story itself has the right blend of historical influence, romantic plot, family love, and humor. I really love Kerrelyn Sparks books ever since the moment Ian stole my heart in
(Saw the book in the checkout line at Sams Club and it had to come home with me. The next day the rest of the series that was out also jumped into my cart to come home with me.) Whether it is historical or paranormal romance, I haven't come across a single book by this author that failed to amuse/entertain/aw me. 
July 6, 2013
Sometimes we need to leave our comfort zone, that little niche where we settle into so happily. I’m a picky reader you see; I want my men either in kilts waving claymores about or I want them to have some sort of fangs or horns with a supernatural power or a preternatural ability. Easy, right? Then, one of my favorite authors decided to write a book in a time and place that I just normally don’t enjoy! But I felt compelled beyond all reason to read it and was rewarded for taking a chance.
This book takes place in the Carolina colonies during the Revolutionary War. It begins as Matthias Murray Thomas and his men break free from the prison they were in, having to kill some of the guards and making a mortal enemy of one left alive. The Major who assisted in the rescue operation had two daughters that were left alone and he wanted Matthias to check in on them. One daughter had two young children and a third on the way, while the other, according to her father, could take care of herself! As Matthias set out on his mission, he kept looking for the women but found their home had been burned out and he feared them dead. Returning to his own home, Matthias discovered that the women were both safe and staying with his mother at his plantation. Caroline was there under the fake name Miss Agatha Ludlow pretending to be a woman there to marry Matthias.
For a full review follow this link:
http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
This book takes place in the Carolina colonies during the Revolutionary War. It begins as Matthias Murray Thomas and his men break free from the prison they were in, having to kill some of the guards and making a mortal enemy of one left alive. The Major who assisted in the rescue operation had two daughters that were left alone and he wanted Matthias to check in on them. One daughter had two young children and a third on the way, while the other, according to her father, could take care of herself! As Matthias set out on his mission, he kept looking for the women but found their home had been burned out and he feared them dead. Returning to his own home, Matthias discovered that the women were both safe and staying with his mother at his plantation. Caroline was there under the fake name Miss Agatha Ludlow pretending to be a woman there to marry Matthias.
For a full review follow this link:
http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
October 1, 2014
Less Than a Gentleman by Kerrelyn Sparks
Historical Series Book Two
Matthias Murray Thomas has a lot on his shoulders. Fighting for freedom with a price on his head, protecting his mother and his plantation and now he has a fiery redhead who does not take orders...at all. And she thinks he’s a butler.
Caroline Munro has been through a lot in her life so far. Now at twenty-six it has fallen on her shoulders to protect her very pregnant sister and her niece and nephew. The war rages on as the redcoats invade more territory and take what they want. If she has to pretend to be someone else for them to have food and shelter in the huge plantation home, that is what she’ll do.
This story is full of adventure, danger and romance. The truth of the war brings sadness, but in her usual way the author brings humor into the story. We first met Caroline in the first book The Forbidden Lady, as a young fifteen year old who had a loose tongue at the worst times. She may be older, but her tongue is still a bit out of control. The excellent story telling from Kerrelyn’s Love at Stake series is continued in both historical books.
**Sexual content
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Historical Series Book Two
Matthias Murray Thomas has a lot on his shoulders. Fighting for freedom with a price on his head, protecting his mother and his plantation and now he has a fiery redhead who does not take orders...at all. And she thinks he’s a butler.
Caroline Munro has been through a lot in her life so far. Now at twenty-six it has fallen on her shoulders to protect her very pregnant sister and her niece and nephew. The war rages on as the redcoats invade more territory and take what they want. If she has to pretend to be someone else for them to have food and shelter in the huge plantation home, that is what she’ll do.
This story is full of adventure, danger and romance. The truth of the war brings sadness, but in her usual way the author brings humor into the story. We first met Caroline in the first book The Forbidden Lady, as a young fifteen year old who had a loose tongue at the worst times. She may be older, but her tongue is still a bit out of control. The excellent story telling from Kerrelyn’s Love at Stake series is continued in both historical books.
**Sexual content
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
July 5, 2013
I love Sparks' Vampire books, so when I saw the opportunity to read one of her historicals I jumped quick and wasn't disappointed!
Out of the hundreds of historicals I've read in my lifetime I can't remember reading an American Revolution themed book. Now that I have I'm hooked :)
Since I'm originally from the South it was pretty awesome to read a fictional accounting about some of the sites that I've actually visited. *Thanks mom and dad for dragging me to those battlefields. lol*
Carolina and Matthias' courtship was hilarious to read. There were so many double entendres that I literally laughed out loud at. I've come to expect great humor from Sparks, but I really think she outdid herself in Less Than a Gentleman. There was a great buildup to their physical relationship, and when it happened it was HOT!
An absolutely wonderful read! I think anyone who enjoys a comical read with some pretty serious undercurrents will enjoy this one as well :)
If I could talk her into writing a historical paranormal romance I would be in heaven!
- See more at: http://www.bittenbyparanormalromance....
Out of the hundreds of historicals I've read in my lifetime I can't remember reading an American Revolution themed book. Now that I have I'm hooked :)
Since I'm originally from the South it was pretty awesome to read a fictional accounting about some of the sites that I've actually visited. *Thanks mom and dad for dragging me to those battlefields. lol*
Carolina and Matthias' courtship was hilarious to read. There were so many double entendres that I literally laughed out loud at. I've come to expect great humor from Sparks, but I really think she outdid herself in Less Than a Gentleman. There was a great buildup to their physical relationship, and when it happened it was HOT!
An absolutely wonderful read! I think anyone who enjoys a comical read with some pretty serious undercurrents will enjoy this one as well :)
If I could talk her into writing a historical paranormal romance I would be in heaven!
- See more at: http://www.bittenbyparanormalromance....
July 13, 2013
What a perfect book to read over the 4th of July weekend! Full of patriotism, spies, romance and danger, this has to be one of the most humorous and entertaining historical novel I have read. Fast paced this is a book that you will find quite difficult to put down. And yes this is coming from someone who normally doesn’t read historical romance.
This takes place during the American Revolution War which really makes for an interesting back drop to this book. The action and the parts of the war were dealt with in a tasteful manner. I was also impressed with how the slavery issue was addressed and handled. For all its serious moments there was quite a few times I found myself giggling over the funny conversations that Caroline and Matthias had.
While this book is the second in a series it is a perfectly fine book for a standalone. I loved seeing how Virginia and Quin’s family have grown since the first book. If this series continues I will definitely put the next book on my To Be Read list!
This takes place during the American Revolution War which really makes for an interesting back drop to this book. The action and the parts of the war were dealt with in a tasteful manner. I was also impressed with how the slavery issue was addressed and handled. For all its serious moments there was quite a few times I found myself giggling over the funny conversations that Caroline and Matthias had.
While this book is the second in a series it is a perfectly fine book for a standalone. I loved seeing how Virginia and Quin’s family have grown since the first book. If this series continues I will definitely put the next book on my To Be Read list!
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