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Courtship Wars #2
To Bed a Beauty
Nicole Jordan takes the delights of the Regency mating game to breathless new heights in this daring second novel of a superb new trilogy, The Courtship Wars.
Clever and charming Roslyn Loring, the middle child of three beautiful, independent sisters, knows that true happiness lies in a marriage of the heart–and she has hers set on a love-match with a neighboring earl. Yet her sharp mind has observed an undeniable Gentlemen lavish passion on their mistresses, not their wives. Roslyn realizes that to win her future husband’s devotion, she must learn the secrets of kindling a gentleman’s ardor. Fortunately, she finds a willing tutor in Drew Moncrief, the Duke of Arden, a notorious rake whispered to be London’s most magnificent lover. If his searing kisses are any indication, the duke is the ideal man to teach Roslyn how to be the perfect mistress.
Drew begins schooling Roslyn while coolly guarding his heart. But as best-laid plans are thwarted by unexpected events–including a night of unforgettable passion–Roslyn and her wickedly arousing tutor discover how easily lessons in pleasure can become lessons in love. . . .
Clever and charming Roslyn Loring, the middle child of three beautiful, independent sisters, knows that true happiness lies in a marriage of the heart–and she has hers set on a love-match with a neighboring earl. Yet her sharp mind has observed an undeniable Gentlemen lavish passion on their mistresses, not their wives. Roslyn realizes that to win her future husband’s devotion, she must learn the secrets of kindling a gentleman’s ardor. Fortunately, she finds a willing tutor in Drew Moncrief, the Duke of Arden, a notorious rake whispered to be London’s most magnificent lover. If his searing kisses are any indication, the duke is the ideal man to teach Roslyn how to be the perfect mistress.
Drew begins schooling Roslyn while coolly guarding his heart. But as best-laid plans are thwarted by unexpected events–including a night of unforgettable passion–Roslyn and her wickedly arousing tutor discover how easily lessons in pleasure can become lessons in love. . . .
442 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 26, 2008
80 people are currently reading
1397 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Jordan
94 books978 followersNew York Times bestselling author Nicole Jordan spins delightful tales that simmer with passion and sensuality. In her former life, Nicole grew up as an Army brat, moving frequently and attending high school in Germany. She later earned a civil engineering degree from Georgia Tech and spent eight years as a manufacturing manager making disposable diapers and toilet tissue! Currently Nicole lives in the Rocky Mountains of Utah with her real-life hero (her husband) and beloved kids (her horses).
With over two-dozen historical romances to her credit and four million books in print, set in numerous eras and locales, Nicole now enjoys chronicling the sparks that fly when Regency lovers play the matrimonial mating game.
One of her novels had the dubious honor of being humorously spotlighted by Jay Leno on "The Tonight Show." On a more serious note, Nicole's romances regularly appear on numerous bestseller lists, including The New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today, and have earned such honors as RITA finalist, RWA's Favorite Book of the Year, the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Historical Romance, and the Dorothy Parker Award of Excellence, presented by a group of over one hundred romance reviewers.
With over two-dozen historical romances to her credit and four million books in print, set in numerous eras and locales, Nicole now enjoys chronicling the sparks that fly when Regency lovers play the matrimonial mating game.
One of her novels had the dubious honor of being humorously spotlighted by Jay Leno on "The Tonight Show." On a more serious note, Nicole's romances regularly appear on numerous bestseller lists, including The New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today, and have earned such honors as RITA finalist, RWA's Favorite Book of the Year, the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Historical Romance, and the Dorothy Parker Award of Excellence, presented by a group of over one hundred romance reviewers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
August 6, 2015
HERE TAKE ALL THESE 5 STARS! 10 STARS! HELL, A GAZILLION STARS! OMG THIS BOOK IS SO AWESOME I JUST CAN'T.
The blurb does not give this book justice. There's so much more to this story than was stated there, and by golly, I loved every bit of it. It started off kind of slower than I would have liked, but that helped me get a better understanding of the characters, so I can't really complain. And while the book is a bit longer than was necessary, I found myself too enthralled to care about its length. The love scenes were steamy as hell. Reminds me of a Elizabeth Hoyt book, actually.
And the characters were all so lovable, all of them! The two leads shined the most; Roslyn was amazing and Drew was extremely delicious. I loved their character development, especially Drew's. You actually get to see him change from an detached cynic to a besotted lover.
GOD, I JUST LOVE HOW HE GROVELLED. I don't know about you, but I love it when the hero grovels and pines after the heroine. And boy, this book had tons of those! I liked how the cynic actually said these words in the end:
“I hope to God you will have me as your husband. I’ll grovel if necessary. I will do anything to have you back. I know I have to earn your love, but I want the chance, Roslyn. Please give me that chance.”
I wanted to eat him for dinner. He was just so damn delicious. OMFG.
This is my first Nicole Jordan book, and I will definitely read more from her.
December 4, 2017
This novel was so funny at times. The H and h are a perfect match for each other, but ironically, the h has set her sights on trying to get a neighbouring Earl to propose to her because that guy seems like her ideal type. However, a weird set of circumstances keep pushing her into the arms of the hero, a handsome sexy man whore Duke who is allergic to marriage. I don't really find many blonde men sexy ( except for Alexander Skarsgard from True Blood and the late Paul Walker - may his delicious self RIP ), but I really loved this blonde hero. I kinda preferred to imagine him in my mind as looking as Alexander Skarsgard so that made reading this romance very interesting.
The way both MC's fight their attraction to each other is funny. The heroine's notions about marriage and love have been warped by the twisted adulterous marriage between her parents and the H has never known what parental love feels like. This sets our couple at a huge disadvantage in the journey to their HEA because they're both afraid to have their hearts broken and their lives destroyed. There's a lot of jealousy on the part of the H, a bit of stupidity on the part of the heroine and a lot of unwelcome help from the heroine's kind, matronly benefactress. The H's mother is such a cold, snobbish and unfeeling bitch that one knows immediately why he is so cynical about love. I wondered how that frigid old bat thawed out enough to conceive the hero - or maybe she just closed her eyes, opened her aristocratic legs and dreamed of diamonds while her husband was doing the deed. I did enjoy how the H got so fed up of her icy, insulting treatment of the heroine and threatened to send her to the Dower House - gasp ! That would be social suicide for a snobby entitled witch, so she shut her trap immediately. This Ice Queen may be resentful of her son's choice of bride but she knows who holds the purse strings.
This was a nice, funny and lovely romance with very sexy characters who shared such hot chemistry from the very first time they met. I really must remember to read the first novel in this series, about the heroine's older sister and their sexy guardian Marcus.
The way both MC's fight their attraction to each other is funny. The heroine's notions about marriage and love have been warped by the twisted adulterous marriage between her parents and the H has never known what parental love feels like. This sets our couple at a huge disadvantage in the journey to their HEA because they're both afraid to have their hearts broken and their lives destroyed. There's a lot of jealousy on the part of the H, a bit of stupidity on the part of the heroine and a lot of unwelcome help from the heroine's kind, matronly benefactress. The H's mother is such a cold, snobbish and unfeeling bitch that one knows immediately why he is so cynical about love. I wondered how that frigid old bat thawed out enough to conceive the hero - or maybe she just closed her eyes, opened her aristocratic legs and dreamed of diamonds while her husband was doing the deed. I did enjoy how the H got so fed up of her icy, insulting treatment of the heroine and threatened to send her to the Dower House - gasp ! That would be social suicide for a snobby entitled witch, so she shut her trap immediately. This Ice Queen may be resentful of her son's choice of bride but she knows who holds the purse strings.
This was a nice, funny and lovely romance with very sexy characters who shared such hot chemistry from the very first time they met. I really must remember to read the first novel in this series, about the heroine's older sister and their sexy guardian Marcus.
January 22, 2018
I loved this book. But it wasn't because of the main characters or even the main plot. It was because of the secondary story of Lady Winifred. It was so poignant and heartbreaking. The tale of unrequited love and pain of limerence. Drew and Roslyn was endearing characters as well though and their story was really cute. The ending was a bit too mushy for my taste but seeing the fall of the Duke of Arden was well worth the read. Definitely recommend it.
October 28, 2015
i found this a small treasure ! i love how Arden was totally besotted wid Roslyn though he did not mean to. he really thought she was in love with the earl. it took her quite a long time to realise dat she loved the idea of falling for Haviland but she did not love him, he left her cold. she drove Arden crazy in her relentless pursuit of the OM but even when she stopped, he still had his doubts. wonderful one !
November 3, 2020
Quinto livro para o #outubrodeépoca.
Demorei a vir fazer a review mas nem sempre estamos com a mesma disponibilidade na vida.
Não é segredo nenhum que o primeiro livro desta série não me convenceu muito apesar de não ter odiado. Porem, este já entrou num patamar diferente. Infelizmente não o li numa altura muito boa, mas ainda assim consegui aproveitar melhor a história e gostar um pouco mais dos personagens e das suas personalidades.
Roslyn ao contrário da irmã do livro anterior, agradou-me um pouco mais. Mostrou-se mais inteligente, madura e compreensiva. Corajosa. Mesmo que tenha alguns pequenos traumas derivados da relação toxica dos pais, ainda acredita no amor e isso é um grande factor neste livro. Drew, o nosso Duque, tem uma visão mais real do que é o casamento para aquela época e sociedade, então consegui compreender o lado dele mesmo que seja uma esperançosa em finais felizes e amorosos destas histórias. Mas gostei da realidade que ele não descartou. Obvio que isso iria mudar, pois apaixonar-se não fazia parte dos seus planos, mas não é que assim foi?
O casal em si mostrou-se cheio de química e entendimento e uma forma aberta de falarem e estarem juntos – mesmo que a primeira interação deles tenha sido muito diferente do comum conhecimento.
Gostei do livro, mas senti falta de algo e dai não ter levado as 5 estrelas, mas não deixaram de ser 4 muito boas – na minha opinião. Confesso que receio um pouco o terceiro livro, sobre a outra irmã e Heath, mas veremos quando lá chegar.
Demorei a vir fazer a review mas nem sempre estamos com a mesma disponibilidade na vida.
Não é segredo nenhum que o primeiro livro desta série não me convenceu muito apesar de não ter odiado. Porem, este já entrou num patamar diferente. Infelizmente não o li numa altura muito boa, mas ainda assim consegui aproveitar melhor a história e gostar um pouco mais dos personagens e das suas personalidades.
Roslyn ao contrário da irmã do livro anterior, agradou-me um pouco mais. Mostrou-se mais inteligente, madura e compreensiva. Corajosa. Mesmo que tenha alguns pequenos traumas derivados da relação toxica dos pais, ainda acredita no amor e isso é um grande factor neste livro. Drew, o nosso Duque, tem uma visão mais real do que é o casamento para aquela época e sociedade, então consegui compreender o lado dele mesmo que seja uma esperançosa em finais felizes e amorosos destas histórias. Mas gostei da realidade que ele não descartou. Obvio que isso iria mudar, pois apaixonar-se não fazia parte dos seus planos, mas não é que assim foi?
O casal em si mostrou-se cheio de química e entendimento e uma forma aberta de falarem e estarem juntos – mesmo que a primeira interação deles tenha sido muito diferente do comum conhecimento.
Gostei do livro, mas senti falta de algo e dai não ter levado as 5 estrelas, mas não deixaram de ser 4 muito boas – na minha opinião. Confesso que receio um pouco o terceiro livro, sobre a outra irmã e Heath, mas veremos quando lá chegar.
January 4, 2024
The three novels in the series of courtship wars were decent to read,but as far as i am concerned too modern for the regency era it portrayed.
1)First novel was decent , liked the H but again the h was silly.
2)Second, i really liked the H but again the h was pig headed and stupid, i never could understand her reasons, she wanted the H to love her but herself was never sure of her feelings nor did she confess them.
3)Let me not talk about the 3 one, the H again was fine but the h was the stupidest of all three sisters, she really was a childish and whiny with no brains.
The way the sisters carried on specially the third one(lily!) with no consequences didn't bode well with me.
I mean i understand their past and what have been they through but the way they were carrying on and stuff being friends with a cyprian(which again is plus point in their favour) plus inviting her to their functions (though very commendable), it's not done, none of this would have been acceptable.
the easy way the sister's engaged in lovemaking, without anyone knowing about it, it wasn't tha easy.
The way the third one staying in a boarding house and being friends with prostitutes and being adamant to be a mistress to the H, and how one benefactor paid 30 thousand pounds worth of gambling debt , are you kidding me does the author realise the amount value during that time and no one would do that for his/her paramour.
The mother easily accepted back in society.(She would never have been, irrespective if your son in laws are powerful earl's or dukes or marquess.
I mean there were many such instances which didn't work out for the era they were written about
I really love it when author's do write steamy novels but when they are writing for certain time period i want them to stay true to the era and not add in modern ideologies in it, no way the sisters carried on would have been acceptable of their time period.
1)First novel was decent , liked the H but again the h was silly.
2)Second, i really liked the H but again the h was pig headed and stupid, i never could understand her reasons, she wanted the H to love her but herself was never sure of her feelings nor did she confess them.
3)Let me not talk about the 3 one, the H again was fine but the h was the stupidest of all three sisters, she really was a childish and whiny with no brains.
The way the sisters carried on specially the third one(lily!) with no consequences didn't bode well with me.
I mean i understand their past and what have been they through but the way they were carrying on and stuff being friends with a cyprian(which again is plus point in their favour) plus inviting her to their functions (though very commendable), it's not done, none of this would have been acceptable.
the easy way the sister's engaged in lovemaking, without anyone knowing about it, it wasn't tha easy.
The way the third one staying in a boarding house and being friends with prostitutes and being adamant to be a mistress to the H, and how one benefactor paid 30 thousand pounds worth of gambling debt , are you kidding me does the author realise the amount value during that time and no one would do that for his/her paramour.
The mother easily accepted back in society.(She would never have been, irrespective if your son in laws are powerful earl's or dukes or marquess.
I mean there were many such instances which didn't work out for the era they were written about
I really love it when author's do write steamy novels but when they are writing for certain time period i want them to stay true to the era and not add in modern ideologies in it, no way the sisters carried on would have been acceptable of their time period.
November 24, 2020
Mestre da Sedução é o 2 livro da série "courtship wars", sendo o primeiro, Prisioneiros do Amor.
Das três irmãs, Roslyn era a que continuava a manter o desejo de se casar e assim formar família - isto claro, por amor... Recíproco - mesmo e apesar de todo o sofrimento do passado.
A parte boa é que Roslyn já tem um pretendente em vista, apenas falta conquista-lo. Agora é só fazer ele se apaixonar. Para isso, Roslyn conta com a ajuda da sua grande amiga e a melhor cortesã de Londres, para lhe ensinar. Afinal de contas, os homens amam as suas amantes.
Adorei o encontro de Roslyn e Drew, foi divertido, suave, porém muitíssimo constrangedor, no mínimo 😂
E quando Drew descobre quem realmente é a mulher daquela noite e o que ela pretende, Drew dá por si a ajudá-la. Afinal, quem melhor que o mais sedutor e melhor amante de Londres?
Nicole Jordan melhorou bastante neste livro. O desenvolvimento da história não se mostrou forçado e apressado, nem me deu a ideia de que a autora se mostrasse indecisa no desenvolvimento.
Mestre da Sedução é um livro divertido, que prende a leitora da primeira à última página.
Próximo 😍
Das três irmãs, Roslyn era a que continuava a manter o desejo de se casar e assim formar família - isto claro, por amor... Recíproco - mesmo e apesar de todo o sofrimento do passado.
A parte boa é que Roslyn já tem um pretendente em vista, apenas falta conquista-lo. Agora é só fazer ele se apaixonar. Para isso, Roslyn conta com a ajuda da sua grande amiga e a melhor cortesã de Londres, para lhe ensinar. Afinal de contas, os homens amam as suas amantes.
Adorei o encontro de Roslyn e Drew, foi divertido, suave, porém muitíssimo constrangedor, no mínimo 😂
E quando Drew descobre quem realmente é a mulher daquela noite e o que ela pretende, Drew dá por si a ajudá-la. Afinal, quem melhor que o mais sedutor e melhor amante de Londres?
Nicole Jordan melhorou bastante neste livro. O desenvolvimento da história não se mostrou forçado e apressado, nem me deu a ideia de que a autora se mostrasse indecisa no desenvolvimento.
Mestre da Sedução é um livro divertido, que prende a leitora da primeira à última página.
Próximo 😍
August 11, 2010
Roslyn Loring is the second oldest Loring sister and she is far more willing to marry than her sisters, but she wants to have a love match marrige. Set on winning Lord Haivland's heart Roslyn askes Drew, Duke Arden to help aid her quest.
Drew, the Duke of Arden knew that the moment he said yes to Roslyn that his life would forever be changed. Helping this beauty act like a mistress in order to catch a husband was a foolish idea. When Roslyns plans to seduce Lord Haivland go underway she never thought that her heart would have a different target set in mind. When passion and theifs enter these twos lives theres no stopping fate from throwing the two together.
Drew, the Duke of Arden knew that the moment he said yes to Roslyn that his life would forever be changed. Helping this beauty act like a mistress in order to catch a husband was a foolish idea. When Roslyns plans to seduce Lord Haivland go underway she never thought that her heart would have a different target set in mind. When passion and theifs enter these twos lives theres no stopping fate from throwing the two together.
April 6, 2012
This book is about a Duke of Arden who slowly falls in love with Roslyn Loring whilst teaching her seduction techniques so that she kindle a gentleman’s ardor therefore securing a love marriage. The Duke of Arden, a notorious rake who whispered to be London’s most magnificent lover is only too willing to teach her however does not believe in love. As Drew begins schooling Roslyn he finds himself falling for her and feeling jealous when she tries the flirtation techniques.
This is a hot read, the seduction scenes are beautifully written and the slow romance between the characters is wonderful to read.
This is a hot read, the seduction scenes are beautifully written and the slow romance between the characters is wonderful to read.
February 28, 2008
Although there were no questions about where this book was headed, I still enjoyed the interactions of the main and secondary characters. I'll definately get the 3rd book in this series coming in April.
November 30, 2010
I really like this one better than the first. I thought there was much more chemistry between the two main characters - Drew and Roslyn. The mini storyline concerning the brooch, in my opinion, made the book more interesting. :)
Skipping off to read Lily's story...
Skipping off to read Lily's story...
November 1, 2010
Firstly this book is about a Duke who fall in love and claiming her heroine whilst she is in love with others. He is teaching her how to get her man. But he end up falling in love with her. Beautifully sweet. I love Nicole Jordan's books. Steamy! Very steamy.
February 9, 2010
book 2.my favourite book of the courtship wars series
April 4, 2013
Great book. This was a very fun read.
July 21, 2023
Better than the first one!
May 19, 2009
Rosalyn is the middle sister of the three Loring siblings. Her older sister, Arabella (the heroine from TO PLEASURE A LADY), will soon be married, and their younger sister, Lilian, is still very much set against marriage. Rosalyn doesn't care for marriage either, since their parents constantly fought and their mother ran away with her lover. But Rosalyn realizes she is not getting any younger. She is trying to decide if her neighbor, Lord Haviland, would be a suitable match; they do get along and he is quite the handsome fellow. But for the moment, Rosalyn will enjoy herself, for she has been invited to a risqué, masked Cyprians' ball with her dear friend, courtesan Fanny Irwin.
As Rosalyn is taking in the sights, she is noticed by the rakish Andrew Moncrief, Duke of Arden; known as Drew to his close friends. He also happens to be the best friend of Arabella's future husband. She fears that she will be found out and tries to hide from Drew. But Drew finds this masked beauty and kisses her senseless, among other things. Before one thing can lead to another, Rosalyn escapes, hoping he will not notice her at Arabella's wedding.
In Drew's past experience, women usually don't deny him, but when it comes to Rosalyn, he is stumped. He figures out quite quickly who Rosalyn is. And yes, he knows she is an innocent, so he will treat her with the respect she deserves, but it is so hard when he can't stop thinking of taking her in his arms and showing her what desire is all about. Drew and Rosalyn come to an agreement and become friends, and Drew even decides to help Rosalyn in the art of flirtation so she can land Haviland. As Drew shows what a simple touch or a subtle smile can achieve, their lessons change into a deeper attraction between the two.
Rosalyn is not sure what to do with Drew because he could easily seduce her. Things come to a halt between them when Rosalyn and her friend, Lady Winifred Freemantle, are attacked by a highwayman, and Rosalyn finds a thief in Winifred's house. Drew offers to aid Rosalyn in the search for this thief. There is something foul afoot, and both Rosalyn and Drew want answers. As they work together, Drew can't stop kissing Rosalyn, and she reciprocates as only a woman can with the man she is falling in love with.
TO BED A BEAUTY is the second story in The Courtship Wars trilogy and should appeal to fans of historical romance that feature a rake who finally finds true love. Rosalyn is against any form of relationship other than friendship with Drew because she knows she can be easily seduced by this experienced man. But the enjoyment in reading this story is watching her fall for the rake who has a change of heart. Rosalyn gives Drew a run for his money, and he is the first to realize his feelings for her, and not the other way around. It was enjoyable reading about their interactions along with their search for the truth about Rosalyn's dear friend Winifred.
Even though most of the action is between Drew and Rosalyn, Haviland comes on the scene a few times and is just as seductive and intriguing as Drew is. Hopefully he will have his own story in the future. I can see how Rosalyn could be quite torn between the two men. Nicole Jordan also leaves a bit of mystery open with Lillian and Drew's friend, Heath, who will have their own romance in the final book of this trilogy, TO SEDUCE A BRIDE (April 2008).
TO BED A BEAUTY has it all, from two great characters in Drew and Rosalyn, a mystery that has an interesting conclusion, and, of course, very nicely written love scenes that will satisfy your appetite. If you are in the mood for the best that historical romance has to offer, Nicole Jordan is an author to look forward to with her lovely romance, TO BED A BEAUTY.
As Rosalyn is taking in the sights, she is noticed by the rakish Andrew Moncrief, Duke of Arden; known as Drew to his close friends. He also happens to be the best friend of Arabella's future husband. She fears that she will be found out and tries to hide from Drew. But Drew finds this masked beauty and kisses her senseless, among other things. Before one thing can lead to another, Rosalyn escapes, hoping he will not notice her at Arabella's wedding.
In Drew's past experience, women usually don't deny him, but when it comes to Rosalyn, he is stumped. He figures out quite quickly who Rosalyn is. And yes, he knows she is an innocent, so he will treat her with the respect she deserves, but it is so hard when he can't stop thinking of taking her in his arms and showing her what desire is all about. Drew and Rosalyn come to an agreement and become friends, and Drew even decides to help Rosalyn in the art of flirtation so she can land Haviland. As Drew shows what a simple touch or a subtle smile can achieve, their lessons change into a deeper attraction between the two.
Rosalyn is not sure what to do with Drew because he could easily seduce her. Things come to a halt between them when Rosalyn and her friend, Lady Winifred Freemantle, are attacked by a highwayman, and Rosalyn finds a thief in Winifred's house. Drew offers to aid Rosalyn in the search for this thief. There is something foul afoot, and both Rosalyn and Drew want answers. As they work together, Drew can't stop kissing Rosalyn, and she reciprocates as only a woman can with the man she is falling in love with.
TO BED A BEAUTY is the second story in The Courtship Wars trilogy and should appeal to fans of historical romance that feature a rake who finally finds true love. Rosalyn is against any form of relationship other than friendship with Drew because she knows she can be easily seduced by this experienced man. But the enjoyment in reading this story is watching her fall for the rake who has a change of heart. Rosalyn gives Drew a run for his money, and he is the first to realize his feelings for her, and not the other way around. It was enjoyable reading about their interactions along with their search for the truth about Rosalyn's dear friend Winifred.
Even though most of the action is between Drew and Rosalyn, Haviland comes on the scene a few times and is just as seductive and intriguing as Drew is. Hopefully he will have his own story in the future. I can see how Rosalyn could be quite torn between the two men. Nicole Jordan also leaves a bit of mystery open with Lillian and Drew's friend, Heath, who will have their own romance in the final book of this trilogy, TO SEDUCE A BRIDE (April 2008).
TO BED A BEAUTY has it all, from two great characters in Drew and Rosalyn, a mystery that has an interesting conclusion, and, of course, very nicely written love scenes that will satisfy your appetite. If you are in the mood for the best that historical romance has to offer, Nicole Jordan is an author to look forward to with her lovely romance, TO BED A BEAUTY.
August 29, 2019
This morning when I woke up to the doom and gloom that is Sydney rain during the last days of winter, I thought to myself, fuck it! I could not deny that I had not the faintest desire to come into uni for a 10am class on the merits of labour law.
So inside I spent all day, reading by the heater and what a delight this book was. I have never read Jordan before but I confess, I will now take a closer look to her other works. Her writing is decidedly more skilled than others in the genre who have an inclination to the more ahistorical aspects of writing a regency romance (who I absolutely refuse to read now that I've weeded them out). She is not lyrically prose-y (though I confess I, unlike many, actual love a bit of purple prose), but flows succinctly without verbosity.
And this particular one in the series is about a duke and those who know me know my odd taste for the highest peers of the realm. I think personally for me, the missing star is purely because of some characterisation, on the part of the duke which lends into the slight missing x factor. I thought long and hard about this, even so far as going back and reviewing what I considered a five star read. And I think the common thread for me is the characterisation of the hero.
Arden has the qualities and the title of a hero that I tend to adore. He's a rake, entitled and witty. But also smart, and most admirably, he is very determined. In my review of Frederica I remarked that my top three requirements of a historical romance where the three Ps: Peer, Power, Pounds LMAO. And while Arden had the money and the title, and I suppose power comes naturally to that, he doesn't overtly exude enough power. In short, he's not up his own ass enough.
Actually, its in this exact moment that I realise how ludicrous I'm becoming. Being too kind is now a turn off for me? That is a new low. Maybe I do need to be sent back to the 1800s for a shocking lesson to full appreciate a women's rights.
So inside I spent all day, reading by the heater and what a delight this book was. I have never read Jordan before but I confess, I will now take a closer look to her other works. Her writing is decidedly more skilled than others in the genre who have an inclination to the more ahistorical aspects of writing a regency romance (who I absolutely refuse to read now that I've weeded them out). She is not lyrically prose-y (though I confess I, unlike many, actual love a bit of purple prose), but flows succinctly without verbosity.
And this particular one in the series is about a duke and those who know me know my odd taste for the highest peers of the realm. I think personally for me, the missing star is purely because of some characterisation, on the part of the duke which lends into the slight missing x factor. I thought long and hard about this, even so far as going back and reviewing what I considered a five star read. And I think the common thread for me is the characterisation of the hero.
Arden has the qualities and the title of a hero that I tend to adore. He's a rake, entitled and witty. But also smart, and most admirably, he is very determined. In my review of Frederica I remarked that my top three requirements of a historical romance where the three Ps: Peer, Power, Pounds LMAO. And while Arden had the money and the title, and I suppose power comes naturally to that, he doesn't overtly exude enough power. In short, he's not up his own ass enough.
Actually, its in this exact moment that I realise how ludicrous I'm becoming. Being too kind is now a turn off for me? That is a new low. Maybe I do need to be sent back to the 1800s for a shocking lesson to full appreciate a women's rights.
December 2, 2013
This is Roslyn Loring's story. She is the middle sister of the Loring family. She is also the most idealistic of the three. She wants a love match. The problem is that she imagines a marriage where she and her husband will never ever fight or argue. She almost loses the man that has come to love her because of the idealism. I am glad that she finally realized that marriage isn't perfect for anyone. There will be disagreements along the way. Roslyn is very compassionate and loving. She is also stubborn and shortsighted about so much. For all her flaws she is still a likeable person.
I was happy to see Andrew “Drew” Moncrief, Duke of Arden, get his happily ever after. He is a wonderful man that has a mother that would freeze a volcano. Drew is a caring man that treats his tenants with caring a respect. He is a progressive in his politics. Plus he takes care of his servants going so far as to move his old nurse into his family estate when she becomes too infirmed to take care of herself. Drew has been hurt in the past and he has closed off his emotions as a result. He is really shocked when he realizes that he has fallen in love with Roslyn.
We see more of Lady Winifred Freemantle in this story and get more of her background. I was surprised that she is such a caring woman. She is also a hopeless matchmaker that is driving the two younger Loring girls crazy. She does have good instincts so far. I have to wonder if we will see more of her in the future books.
This is a well written story with some really wonderful characters. There are some very tender moments that will endear you to all the characters in this story. There are also a few sad moments so keep the tissues handy. I love Ms. Jordan’s writing style. While this is a historical romance and as such usually tame in the terms of sex there are some really hot love scenes in this story. This is a great addition to this series and makes you look forward to the next book.
I was happy to see Andrew “Drew” Moncrief, Duke of Arden, get his happily ever after. He is a wonderful man that has a mother that would freeze a volcano. Drew is a caring man that treats his tenants with caring a respect. He is a progressive in his politics. Plus he takes care of his servants going so far as to move his old nurse into his family estate when she becomes too infirmed to take care of herself. Drew has been hurt in the past and he has closed off his emotions as a result. He is really shocked when he realizes that he has fallen in love with Roslyn.
We see more of Lady Winifred Freemantle in this story and get more of her background. I was surprised that she is such a caring woman. She is also a hopeless matchmaker that is driving the two younger Loring girls crazy. She does have good instincts so far. I have to wonder if we will see more of her in the future books.
This is a well written story with some really wonderful characters. There are some very tender moments that will endear you to all the characters in this story. There are also a few sad moments so keep the tissues handy. I love Ms. Jordan’s writing style. While this is a historical romance and as such usually tame in the terms of sex there are some really hot love scenes in this story. This is a great addition to this series and makes you look forward to the next book.
October 21, 2014
Marcus eyed him with good-humored skepticism. “I must say you made an amazing transformation in a very short time. Barely a month ago you were offering me condolences on the demise of my bachelorhood.”
“Yes, my fine fellow,” Heath prodded jovially, “whatever happened to your vow that you would never be ensnared by any female?”
“I fell in love,” Drew replied simply.
“But you don’t even believe in love.”
“I suppose I will have to eat my words. I am well and truly caught now and wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Wow. That was the best among Nicole Jordan's books that I've read so far! Well, that was what I'm also thinking upon reading the book 1. But this was so much better than the book 1, I think. This duke, who thought his friend MAD for entering into marriage, is falling truly, MADLY and deeply with our heroine! He really got my attention in book 1 because he really insisted that a marriage is a prison, period. Well, he was hopelessly and happily caught by it! I can't contain my excitement to finally witness that. I wouldn't change anything in this story. It was truly wonderful. A must read.
For now, I'm excited to see how would the story of Heath and Lily goes. Well, Heath is amused with how his friends turn out. Let's see in book 3 if he will still be amused when it's his turn already. Eeeeh!!! I think this will be a promising series for me.
“Yes, my fine fellow,” Heath prodded jovially, “whatever happened to your vow that you would never be ensnared by any female?”
“I fell in love,” Drew replied simply.
“But you don’t even believe in love.”
“I suppose I will have to eat my words. I am well and truly caught now and wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Wow. That was the best among Nicole Jordan's books that I've read so far! Well, that was what I'm also thinking upon reading the book 1. But this was so much better than the book 1, I think. This duke, who thought his friend MAD for entering into marriage, is falling truly, MADLY and deeply with our heroine! He really got my attention in book 1 because he really insisted that a marriage is a prison, period. Well, he was hopelessly and happily caught by it! I can't contain my excitement to finally witness that. I wouldn't change anything in this story. It was truly wonderful. A must read.
For now, I'm excited to see how would the story of Heath and Lily goes. Well, Heath is amused with how his friends turn out. Let's see in book 3 if he will still be amused when it's his turn already. Eeeeh!!! I think this will be a promising series for me.
December 25, 2012
Even though this is exactly the same plot as for Marcus, Lord Danvers and Arabella; Rosalie and Lord Drew Arden's story seemed more intense, challenging, and romantic. The author suspends belief by Rosalie supposedly turning her nose up of untold riches and estates and life as a Duchess.
Thankfully I knew there was a happy ending so I happily read along knowing that Drew would get his girl. A satisfying love story.
Something tells me the the story of the 3rd sister Lily will be difficult to get through as we already know it will be full of denials, hating marriage, blindness when it comes to seeing the quality and intent of the hero Heath, and cries of "I don't need a man/husband". Its become tiresome but I will read Lily's story next as I have taken it out of the Library. Who knew the Loring sisters were so Hot?
Thankfully I knew there was a happy ending so I happily read along knowing that Drew would get his girl. A satisfying love story.
Something tells me the the story of the 3rd sister Lily will be difficult to get through as we already know it will be full of denials, hating marriage, blindness when it comes to seeing the quality and intent of the hero Heath, and cries of "I don't need a man/husband". Its become tiresome but I will read Lily's story next as I have taken it out of the Library. Who knew the Loring sisters were so Hot?
February 12, 2014
"To Bed A Beauty" by Nicole Jordan hides very few surprises or memorable events. It involves your typical innocent heroine who yearns for a "love" match and sets her sights on a seemingly perfect gentleman. Of course, being "innocent," she has no idea how to win his heart and cinch their match. Then, in rides the hero. Far from innocent, and far from conducting himself with pure motives of "love," he takes up the challenge offered by the heroine. He will instruct her in all the skills of love she will need to capture her intended. Of course, the hero is steeped in cunning sexuality. The heroine is armed with wit and intellect, to say nothing of her beauty. An enjoyable, but common romantic theme that runs the path of predictability.
However, a strong 3-star rating for providing an enjoyable evening read.
However, a strong 3-star rating for providing an enjoyable evening read.
June 11, 2008
Another good novel... BUT... I am seeing a pattern here LOL. I am just amazed that the sisters all have the same attitude towards marriage and the heros are all the worlds greatest lovers and how they could NOT be attracted to them at the beginning :). But this is not reality. I just started the last one and yes... it begins the same. But I am hoping that she does something with a couple of the secondary characters.... so I think I am more anxious about that then the actual end of this series.
November 11, 2014
Drew was just cynically delicious as ever. He's the reason I hung in there while reading this. I lost my patience more than once with Roslyn. Talk about extremely stubborn-headed, prideful and silly. Gah. She gives hopeless romantic girls a bad rep with the games she pulled in this. I almost wish Drew was paired with someone not as feather brained and melodramatic as Roslyn.
August 5, 2020
5 Estrelas!!!
Muito, mas mesmo muito melhor que o primeiro, ADOREI estes dois personagens super divertidos e com uma atração fantástica. ADOREI!!!! Ansiosa pelo terceiro volume!
Opinião completa no blogue Doce Sonhadora: https://ddocesonhadora.blogspot.com/2...
Muito, mas mesmo muito melhor que o primeiro, ADOREI estes dois personagens super divertidos e com uma atração fantástica. ADOREI!!!! Ansiosa pelo terceiro volume!
Opinião completa no blogue Doce Sonhadora: https://ddocesonhadora.blogspot.com/2...
July 18, 2012
BEAUTIFUL ROSLYN LORING WANTED THE HANDSOME AND ROGUE DREW MONCROEF, DUKE OF ARDEN, TO BE HER TUTOR IN PASSIONATE AND LOVEMAKING, CAUSE SHE HAD HER HEART SET ON A EARL, WHO LIVED CLOSE BY HER. SHE DIDN'T BET ON FALLING IN LOVE WITH THE HANDSOME DUKE. HE WAS SMITTEN WITH HER AS WELL!!!
March 9, 2008
Anticipating this book like majorly.
May 12, 2014
This 2nd in the series was much better than the first!
June 30, 2008
Roslyn takes Andrew on a merry journey. This is good for any lover of Regency romance.
March 3, 2009
great book, quick read, second in a series of sisters outcast in the "ton" of London in the 1800's. Good romance novel, steamy in parts :)
July 25, 2017
Leído en Febrero 2010
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