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Lady: Impossible
Out of print
518 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2013
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April 12, 2013This book is dedicated to me. I mean...I don't even have the words. Dedicated. To. Me. Can't wait to read.
May 15, 2013
Maybe 2.5 stars?
I’m not even sure where to start with this book. It came highly recommended and so I went in with some very high expectations. To say I was let down would be an understatement.
Lady Emilia Pembroke is the only daughter of the Earl and Countess of Silsbury. She is smart and pretty and hasn’t quite learned not to say everything that is on her mind. When her mother leaves the family house for their London home she is asked to spend the summer. Upon her arrival she’s greeted by the butler… but it’s not your typical butler. His name is Blair Baxter, and he’s only a year older than she is and he’s incredibly handsome. They of course get off on the wrong foot almost immediately.
I know I know… I’m saying Lady and Earl and Butler … but this is actually set in present time. I promise.
Her mother decides to drop another bombshell on her though. Since Millie is twenty-eight and has no prospective husbands lined up, she has set up an appointment with a matchmaker. See, Millie, can’t date just anyone. She must date someone of the same social status as her which presents a few problems, the first being that she’s become a bit obsessed with the butler and the second… her family isn’t quite as well off as they thought.
Blair has issues of his own. He needs this job to support his family and his attraction to Lady Emilia is a continuous battle because he can’t afford to screw this up.
Okay… I need to say this first – this was just way, way too wordy for me. I don’t even know how long it was, but by the time I hit 46% I felt like I should have been at about 80%. I think there was way too much of Millie’s internal thoughts and instead of making her endearing and likable, I found her irritating and annoying. There was way too much detail about things I didn’t care one bit about, yet the story never really delved into the topics that seemed important… Millie’s brother and his estrangement, Millie’s parents and their relationship, and yes, even Blair. These MAIN plot points were simply touched on and then ignored. Instead we get details on flower bouquets, attempts at witty banter between Emilia and Oliver about logs and elevators, charity events she attends, descriptions of her trip to Dubai and chit chat with her best friend Abby.
From the get-go I struggled to like either Emilia or Blair. Lady Emilia is spoiled. She’s lived her life among the rich and the pampered and elite and boy did it show. But for all her inner thoughts, I never really understood why she fell for Blair. On the other side of that coin, I didn’t get Blair’s attraction to Emilia either. (Other than they were both attractive) In each of their interactions they are either angry, arguing or apologizing and so I struggled to understand how and why they liked each other…. What qualities did he see in her to make him fall for her and vice versa. It never was believable to me simply because there never seemed to be any corresponding emotions to go with falling in love. Unless we are supposed to believe that the hot sex makes up for all other issues between them.
The sexy stuff was definitely well written and sexy, but again, why the desire to dominate and be rough Blair? WHY? *shakes fist* It seems to me that there is a bit of background that could explain that as well. I just feel like there was a lot of stuff missing to this story and for as long as it was, that’s saying a lot. I see that this is going to be a series… I’m not sure if I’ll pick up the next, though I am interested in seeing what happens with Blair and Lady Emilia and where their story goes. Unless there’s better story direction and better editing, I may skip it.
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
I’m not even sure where to start with this book. It came highly recommended and so I went in with some very high expectations. To say I was let down would be an understatement.
Lady Emilia Pembroke is the only daughter of the Earl and Countess of Silsbury. She is smart and pretty and hasn’t quite learned not to say everything that is on her mind. When her mother leaves the family house for their London home she is asked to spend the summer. Upon her arrival she’s greeted by the butler… but it’s not your typical butler. His name is Blair Baxter, and he’s only a year older than she is and he’s incredibly handsome. They of course get off on the wrong foot almost immediately.
I know I know… I’m saying Lady and Earl and Butler … but this is actually set in present time. I promise.
Her mother decides to drop another bombshell on her though. Since Millie is twenty-eight and has no prospective husbands lined up, she has set up an appointment with a matchmaker. See, Millie, can’t date just anyone. She must date someone of the same social status as her which presents a few problems, the first being that she’s become a bit obsessed with the butler and the second… her family isn’t quite as well off as they thought.
Blair has issues of his own. He needs this job to support his family and his attraction to Lady Emilia is a continuous battle because he can’t afford to screw this up.
Okay… I need to say this first – this was just way, way too wordy for me. I don’t even know how long it was, but by the time I hit 46% I felt like I should have been at about 80%. I think there was way too much of Millie’s internal thoughts and instead of making her endearing and likable, I found her irritating and annoying. There was way too much detail about things I didn’t care one bit about, yet the story never really delved into the topics that seemed important… Millie’s brother and his estrangement, Millie’s parents and their relationship, and yes, even Blair. These MAIN plot points were simply touched on and then ignored. Instead we get details on flower bouquets, attempts at witty banter between Emilia and Oliver about logs and elevators, charity events she attends, descriptions of her trip to Dubai and chit chat with her best friend Abby.
From the get-go I struggled to like either Emilia or Blair. Lady Emilia is spoiled. She’s lived her life among the rich and the pampered and elite and boy did it show. But for all her inner thoughts, I never really understood why she fell for Blair. On the other side of that coin, I didn’t get Blair’s attraction to Emilia either. (Other than they were both attractive) In each of their interactions they are either angry, arguing or apologizing and so I struggled to understand how and why they liked each other…. What qualities did he see in her to make him fall for her and vice versa. It never was believable to me simply because there never seemed to be any corresponding emotions to go with falling in love. Unless we are supposed to believe that the hot sex makes up for all other issues between them.
The sexy stuff was definitely well written and sexy, but again, why the desire to dominate and be rough Blair? WHY? *shakes fist* It seems to me that there is a bit of background that could explain that as well. I just feel like there was a lot of stuff missing to this story and for as long as it was, that’s saying a lot. I see that this is going to be a series… I’m not sure if I’ll pick up the next, though I am interested in seeing what happens with Blair and Lady Emilia and where their story goes. Unless there’s better story direction and better editing, I may skip it.
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
April 11, 2013
All the material possessions and money in the world are great, but if you don’t have love, are they really worth it?
That’s the million dollar (or pound, in this case) question that Lady Emilia Pembroke seeks the answer to. She’s lived a life of privilege, has never wanted for a thing, but when she visits her family’s London home for a summer holiday with her mother, and meets her mother’s new butler…everything she thought she knew about her life gets turned upside down and inside out. Suddenly she’s forced to choose between her family and her own happiness.
And the choice isn’t an easy one.
This may be BD Fraser’s debut novel, but I’m no stranger to her writing. And with Lady: Impossible she’s proven to me, once again, that her ability to write intelligent, funny and downright witty characters isn’t a fluke. That’s right, she’s done it again. From the very first page, I was sucked in, and Lady: Impossible kept me glued to its pages until the very end. It did everything a good, well-written book is supposed to: made me laugh, swoon, scream, clench, tear up and even walk away in frustration a few times, only to come right back because I just couldn’t live with not knowing what was going to happen next.
What does that mean exactly? It means I loved it, and that I think you will, too. Oh, and it also means that I cannot wait to see what’s in store for these characters next! I’ll just be over here, pining away for book two and hoping for some possible Blair POV outtakes…
That’s the million dollar (or pound, in this case) question that Lady Emilia Pembroke seeks the answer to. She’s lived a life of privilege, has never wanted for a thing, but when she visits her family’s London home for a summer holiday with her mother, and meets her mother’s new butler…everything she thought she knew about her life gets turned upside down and inside out. Suddenly she’s forced to choose between her family and her own happiness.
And the choice isn’t an easy one.
This may be BD Fraser’s debut novel, but I’m no stranger to her writing. And with Lady: Impossible she’s proven to me, once again, that her ability to write intelligent, funny and downright witty characters isn’t a fluke. That’s right, she’s done it again. From the very first page, I was sucked in, and Lady: Impossible kept me glued to its pages until the very end. It did everything a good, well-written book is supposed to: made me laugh, swoon, scream, clench, tear up and even walk away in frustration a few times, only to come right back because I just couldn’t live with not knowing what was going to happen next.
What does that mean exactly? It means I loved it, and that I think you will, too. Oh, and it also means that I cannot wait to see what’s in store for these characters next! I’ll just be over here, pining away for book two and hoping for some possible Blair POV outtakes…
April 9, 2013
I absolutely loved this story and couldn't put down this book till 5am!
I'm not surprised I'm so much in love with the writing and witty dialogues as this author always impresses me with the intelligence of her characters.
Highly recommend!
I'm not surprised I'm so much in love with the writing and witty dialogues as this author always impresses me with the intelligence of her characters.
Highly recommend!
April 10, 2013
Absolutely LOVED this. I've been pining for a story like this for a while now and was so incredibly pleased with the story.
More to come...
More to come...
May 5, 2013
Five glowing shiny stars for this debut novel! A must read.
Millie is a 28 year old British aristocrat full of wit, sarcasm and that enviable British self deprecation and humor that makes me love her so much. She comes to London to spend a few weeks with her mother right before the Olympics take place. Cue Blair, oh Blair!!!!!! How I love thee! To say you will fall madly, deeply and irrevocably in love with him in as understatement. He is quite the character and a perfect match for Millie. All secondary characters are as lovable and fun as the main ones. Father, Al, Abby, Andrew, Eliza, Oliver, the whole cast!
The exchanges, the dialogue, the way it's written, all of it genius! I truly hope the author is working on book 2 and that we get it soon. Yes, I know this just came out, but this is how much I want to keep living in this world. It took me all of 24 hrs to read ( I did sleep and hanged out with my family for most of the day) and I can't wait for more. I also want this to become a movie and watch it on the big screen.
It's a delightful smart read and I congratulate the author on a great beginning! May we be gifted many more works from you!
Millie is a 28 year old British aristocrat full of wit, sarcasm and that enviable British self deprecation and humor that makes me love her so much. She comes to London to spend a few weeks with her mother right before the Olympics take place. Cue Blair, oh Blair!!!!!! How I love thee! To say you will fall madly, deeply and irrevocably in love with him in as understatement. He is quite the character and a perfect match for Millie. All secondary characters are as lovable and fun as the main ones. Father, Al, Abby, Andrew, Eliza, Oliver, the whole cast!
The exchanges, the dialogue, the way it's written, all of it genius! I truly hope the author is working on book 2 and that we get it soon. Yes, I know this just came out, but this is how much I want to keep living in this world. It took me all of 24 hrs to read ( I did sleep and hanged out with my family for most of the day) and I can't wait for more. I also want this to become a movie and watch it on the big screen.
It's a delightful smart read and I congratulate the author on a great beginning! May we be gifted many more works from you!
did-not-finish
October 22, 2014I just skimmed the first page and had to put it back down so I can get some chores done today. I can already tell I'm going to get sucked into this one fast. The narrative voice is strong and funny. Two sentences in I was already laughing.
April 11, 2013
I loved this. Well written. Fabulous characters. Insanely good banter. And the story was just so very good.
April 12, 2013
This book. Oh this book!!! LOLOLOLOL
I have no clue where the idea to write a historical romance in today's times came to Fraser, but I glad it did.
I give you, Emilia Pembroke, Lady. 28 years old, back home for the summer from school. Millie is an experiment in social awkwardness if I ever saw (read) on. She says the wrong things, not because she doesn't know what to say, but because she has no filter. She almost always has a certain double entendre in her words and is sassy beyond belief.
There’s a long pause after we both pull away. Initially, I’m too dizzy with happiness to do anything but smile. Then I remember what I was going to do before our romantic exchange and, being me again, there is no hesitation between remembering and saying it aloud. ‘Would this be a bad moment to say that I really want to suck your cock?’ Blair chuckles, shaking his head in disbelief. ‘I really do love you.’ ‘Is that a “yes”?’ ‘What are you waiting for?’
Or
Mother snaps into action, grabbing hold of my arm. She’s certainly alive now. It’s like someone has lifted the haze and told her to get on with it before I weasel my way out and bring down the entire empire. ‘And, pray tell, how long does it take to drive from Knightsbridge to Kensington?’ ‘Probably the time it takes for Shakespeare to travel here so he can ask for his language back. “Pray tell”, indeed.’
And her thoughts are hilarious:
Ten minutes later, a white-haired man in a grey suit approaches and, for a moment, I’m convinced it’s him. But it soon becomes apparent that he’s here for the lady next to me. It’s like a geriatric version of Snow White: he leans down, kisses her on the cheek and, suddenly, she’s alive again. It’s sort of sweet, if you discount the drool and the smell of Old Spice.
At the airport Blair Baxter - butler, 29 years old - picks her up (or should I say collects her?). Millie doesn't believe him that he's their butler (her mother doesn't have one in her London home) and only after confirmation from Lady Silsbury, she goes along with him. Needless to say that puns, banter, sarcasm and downright rudeness accompany the ride, and subsequent weeks.
Here are a few:
‘Look, just think about what I said. Believe it or not, I’m not trying to be cruel.’ He stands tall, exuding his particular brand of confidence all over again. ‘Enjoy your treat, m’lady.’ ‘Like that’s even possible, thanks to your addition of this phallic fruit!’ I hold up the sundae as if doing so demonstrates everything that’s wrong with this situation. He ascends the stairs, smiling as he looks over his shoulder. ‘Sorry it’s so mushy. I know how much you prefer things to be rock hard.’
Did I mention I looooove Blair?
Better to have fucked and lost than never having fucked at all. <---LOOOOL
I try to picture where his stash might be. ‘These condoms, are they strategically placed around the house? We’re very spontaneous, you know.’ ‘It’s not a bloody Easter egg hunt,’
Another thing that they share is insane attraction and growing feelings for one another.
Millie's mother is eager to marry her off to the first rich and dashing gentleman caller, and even signs her up with the aristocracy's dating service. Reluctantly, Millie cooperates, and is coupled with Oliver, a successful banker.
On Millie's side we have Abby, her best friend who is happily married to a charming young man. She truly supports Millie and is a good friend to her, and a fountain of funny comments along the story. I loved Abby. Some of her shining moments:
Abby places her hand on my arm, patting me reassuringly. ‘Hey now, no panicking. Here, have some shortbread.’ I stare at the shortbread that she’s holding out in her other hand. ‘Is that known to stave off panic?’
or
Want one, Mrs P?’ she asks my mother. I answer for her. ‘A countess never drinks from plastic.’ ‘It’s only plastic because I might smash the real thing when tipsy,’ Abby says, leaning back and looking supremely nonchalant. ‘The rest of the crockery here is real.’ Mother doesn’t seem to have the patience for this. ‘Honestly, I’ll be drinking moonshine from a hip flask if I can’t get you to cheer up,’ she says to me. ‘Should I use affronting language in order to communicate with you? What’s that expression you used the other day, Abby? The one I frowned upon?’ Abby sits up as if she’s been called upon in class. ‘Calm your tits?’
or
‘Of course he likes you! You’re Likey McLikeable!’
Throughout the entire story, a financial crisis hangs over the Pembrokes' head following a bad investment on her father's part. And this imminent crisis is, in a way, tied to Blair's past, which is revealed in itty bitty increments.
The story is packed with wit, sass and clever puns. Fraser's humor and excellent writing exceeded all my expectations from this debut novel (which I was SURE I would enjoy). Win win, ha?
I have no clue where the idea to write a historical romance in today's times came to Fraser, but I glad it did.
I give you, Emilia Pembroke, Lady. 28 years old, back home for the summer from school. Millie is an experiment in social awkwardness if I ever saw (read) on. She says the wrong things, not because she doesn't know what to say, but because she has no filter. She almost always has a certain double entendre in her words and is sassy beyond belief.
There’s a long pause after we both pull away. Initially, I’m too dizzy with happiness to do anything but smile. Then I remember what I was going to do before our romantic exchange and, being me again, there is no hesitation between remembering and saying it aloud. ‘Would this be a bad moment to say that I really want to suck your cock?’ Blair chuckles, shaking his head in disbelief. ‘I really do love you.’ ‘Is that a “yes”?’ ‘What are you waiting for?’
Or
Mother snaps into action, grabbing hold of my arm. She’s certainly alive now. It’s like someone has lifted the haze and told her to get on with it before I weasel my way out and bring down the entire empire. ‘And, pray tell, how long does it take to drive from Knightsbridge to Kensington?’ ‘Probably the time it takes for Shakespeare to travel here so he can ask for his language back. “Pray tell”, indeed.’
And her thoughts are hilarious:
Ten minutes later, a white-haired man in a grey suit approaches and, for a moment, I’m convinced it’s him. But it soon becomes apparent that he’s here for the lady next to me. It’s like a geriatric version of Snow White: he leans down, kisses her on the cheek and, suddenly, she’s alive again. It’s sort of sweet, if you discount the drool and the smell of Old Spice.
At the airport Blair Baxter - butler, 29 years old - picks her up (or should I say collects her?). Millie doesn't believe him that he's their butler (her mother doesn't have one in her London home) and only after confirmation from Lady Silsbury, she goes along with him. Needless to say that puns, banter, sarcasm and downright rudeness accompany the ride, and subsequent weeks.
Here are a few:
‘Look, just think about what I said. Believe it or not, I’m not trying to be cruel.’ He stands tall, exuding his particular brand of confidence all over again. ‘Enjoy your treat, m’lady.’ ‘Like that’s even possible, thanks to your addition of this phallic fruit!’ I hold up the sundae as if doing so demonstrates everything that’s wrong with this situation. He ascends the stairs, smiling as he looks over his shoulder. ‘Sorry it’s so mushy. I know how much you prefer things to be rock hard.’
Did I mention I looooove Blair?
Better to have fucked and lost than never having fucked at all. <---LOOOOL
I try to picture where his stash might be. ‘These condoms, are they strategically placed around the house? We’re very spontaneous, you know.’ ‘It’s not a bloody Easter egg hunt,’
Another thing that they share is insane attraction and growing feelings for one another.
Millie's mother is eager to marry her off to the first rich and dashing gentleman caller, and even signs her up with the aristocracy's dating service. Reluctantly, Millie cooperates, and is coupled with Oliver, a successful banker.
On Millie's side we have Abby, her best friend who is happily married to a charming young man. She truly supports Millie and is a good friend to her, and a fountain of funny comments along the story. I loved Abby. Some of her shining moments:
Abby places her hand on my arm, patting me reassuringly. ‘Hey now, no panicking. Here, have some shortbread.’ I stare at the shortbread that she’s holding out in her other hand. ‘Is that known to stave off panic?’
or
Want one, Mrs P?’ she asks my mother. I answer for her. ‘A countess never drinks from plastic.’ ‘It’s only plastic because I might smash the real thing when tipsy,’ Abby says, leaning back and looking supremely nonchalant. ‘The rest of the crockery here is real.’ Mother doesn’t seem to have the patience for this. ‘Honestly, I’ll be drinking moonshine from a hip flask if I can’t get you to cheer up,’ she says to me. ‘Should I use affronting language in order to communicate with you? What’s that expression you used the other day, Abby? The one I frowned upon?’ Abby sits up as if she’s been called upon in class. ‘Calm your tits?’
or
‘Of course he likes you! You’re Likey McLikeable!’
Throughout the entire story, a financial crisis hangs over the Pembrokes' head following a bad investment on her father's part. And this imminent crisis is, in a way, tied to Blair's past, which is revealed in itty bitty increments.
The story is packed with wit, sass and clever puns. Fraser's humor and excellent writing exceeded all my expectations from this debut novel (which I was SURE I would enjoy). Win win, ha?
April 11, 2013
Well I have some complaints...... I've hardly slept the last two days and I'm going to be late for work today. Thoroughly enjoyed the story although now frustrated that there is to be book #2 and I'm guessing I'll have to wait sometime before I get to see what happens next. Shit! Is that the time? *dustcloud*
April 25, 2013
21st century "Downton Abbey" meets Alice Clayton's "Wallbanger" wittiness. Extremely enjoyable read!
April 18, 2013
I remember when Fraser had the plot bunny for Lady: Impossible about a year ago, and it’s so cool to finally have the final copy in my hands. I’ve been a fan of this author for a while. Fraser writes with incredible wit and humor, and the sexual tension...WOWSA! All of these things are embodied in this book.
Plus I’m *obsessed* with Downton Abbey, so I appreciate Fraser talking about these upstairs/downstairs dynamics in a contemporary setting.
While I do have some criticism of the two main characters, I recommend Lady: Impossible, and give it 3.5 stars.
We begin with Lady Emilia “Millie” Pembrook as she is spending summer holiday with her mother in London. Her parents are slightly estranged, and unfortunately, the family is dealing with ongoing backlash from Millie’s brother’s (Alistair) scandalous departure from society. But it’s Queens Jubilee summer, and Millie looks forward to attending parties, galas, etc.
As soon as Millie arrives in London, she learns that her mother has hired new butler Blair Baxter. Blair happens to be hot as hell... and Millie says as much. This causes instant tension in their relationship because he might be attracted to her too; however propriety dictates that they stay platonic.
On top of this, Millie's parents have decided to that it's time her to get married and arrange a meeting with an elite matchmaking service in London...and Millie learns that due a family crisis, she may not have the luxury to wait for love. As Millie and Blair circle each other, can they get past the fear of scandal that would come with a romantic relationship, and act on their mutual attraction?
Millie is a basket case, but I say that with love. She’s very direct and witty, with no filter whatsoever, but she’s kind and family-oriented too.
And on the other hand, Blair is super professional and proper, but there’s an underlying passion in him that Millie seems to be able to trigger.
With that said, the animosity between them is really intense...and I don't know if we ever learn enough about Millie and Blair to explain why that would be the case, especially in the early stages of their relationship.
Why is Millie SO attracted to/attached to/obsessed with Blair? It seems extreme that she can't even go three days without seeing him during the jubilee holiday. That separation turns Millie into even more of a basket case...I don't get it. In fact, it starts to get a bit annoying because it doesn't seem like Millie and Blair even like each other.
By the end of the book, we learn that Blair has endured A LOT. He’s sacrificed much of his life and happiness in order to provide for his family, which is certainly admirable. But goodness, there are many times I want to slap the hell out of Blair! He's hot and *definitely* knows how to bed a woman, but Blair can be hypocritical and overly harsh in how he treats Millie...
...And over and over again we hear about Millie being an independent woman...how she isn’t afraid to stand up for herself. She’ll say what’s on her mind and won’t let anyone trample on her. But when it comes to Blair, we don’t see that at all! Many times, Blair is absolutely horrible to Millie...he’s rude, dismissive, and downright callous. Yet, over and over again, Millie is willing to bear his derision; she’s willing to bear the blame for his anger and self-pity. And I just don’t understand it. So by the time we reach the moment that Millie and Blair decide to be together in a more permanent way, I am happy to get an HEA. But I’m mostly confused, hesitant, and *REALLY* desperate for MORE...a sequel, a Blair POV, something!
A couple more comments:
--I really enjoy Millie’s relationships with her parents and friends. The banter between them is hilarious! For example, I love Abby! She’s a pretty hilarious character, and her interactions with Millie are great. When Millie is embarrassed about admitting, out loud, that she wants to sleep with Blair...in front of him:
Abby: “There’s nothing a bit of telly won’t fix. You’ll forget about being a sexual predator in no time.” BWAHAHAHAHAH!
--The sexy times are ABSOLUTELY, INCREDIBLY HOT!
Millie and Blair’s first time together...ON THE STAIRS...
“Our situations are reversed. He’s the boss and I am the willing servant, taking his punishment and his pleasures i n equal measure...he thrusts again, hitting me so deeply I cry out from the delicious discomfort...I, Emilia Pembroke, who’s never really been adventurous in bed, is now being unceremoniously fucked by her butler on the stairs of the family’s London residence.” LAWWWWWWWD!
Then their second time against Blair’s bedroom door...
“Every woman should feel the liberation of having her tits on display and bouncing , while a well-endowed man thrusts in and out of her.” *DED*DED*DED*
Their third time together in Millie’s bed...
“I moan over and over as he changes his technique, licking me slowly and surely in long strokes before holding my hips down as he laps with more vigour.” GHTUDGFHFJFSJFHJAHFHFAK!!!!!!!!!!!!
The passion between them Blair and Millie is FANTASTIC, and they can be quite possessive of one another. I LOVE when he calls her Emilia...hell, I love when he calls her m’lady too, especially in bed!
But as I mention before, that passion quickly deteriorates to antagonism, which is frustrating.
Overall, I laugh a lot, perv a lot, and (to be honest) rage a lot.
I am *begging* Fraser for more...and I think a the ending of the book leaves things wide open for a sequel, preferably from Blair’s perspective.
Plus I’m *obsessed* with Downton Abbey, so I appreciate Fraser talking about these upstairs/downstairs dynamics in a contemporary setting.
While I do have some criticism of the two main characters, I recommend Lady: Impossible, and give it 3.5 stars.
We begin with Lady Emilia “Millie” Pembrook as she is spending summer holiday with her mother in London. Her parents are slightly estranged, and unfortunately, the family is dealing with ongoing backlash from Millie’s brother’s (Alistair) scandalous departure from society. But it’s Queens Jubilee summer, and Millie looks forward to attending parties, galas, etc.
As soon as Millie arrives in London, she learns that her mother has hired new butler Blair Baxter. Blair happens to be hot as hell... and Millie says as much. This causes instant tension in their relationship because he might be attracted to her too; however propriety dictates that they stay platonic.
On top of this, Millie's parents have decided to that it's time her to get married and arrange a meeting with an elite matchmaking service in London...and Millie learns that due a family crisis, she may not have the luxury to wait for love. As Millie and Blair circle each other, can they get past the fear of scandal that would come with a romantic relationship, and act on their mutual attraction?
Millie is a basket case, but I say that with love. She’s very direct and witty, with no filter whatsoever, but she’s kind and family-oriented too.
And on the other hand, Blair is super professional and proper, but there’s an underlying passion in him that Millie seems to be able to trigger.
With that said, the animosity between them is really intense...and I don't know if we ever learn enough about Millie and Blair to explain why that would be the case, especially in the early stages of their relationship.
Why is Millie SO attracted to/attached to/obsessed with Blair? It seems extreme that she can't even go three days without seeing him during the jubilee holiday. That separation turns Millie into even more of a basket case...I don't get it. In fact, it starts to get a bit annoying because it doesn't seem like Millie and Blair even like each other.
By the end of the book, we learn that Blair has endured A LOT. He’s sacrificed much of his life and happiness in order to provide for his family, which is certainly admirable. But goodness, there are many times I want to slap the hell out of Blair! He's hot and *definitely* knows how to bed a woman, but Blair can be hypocritical and overly harsh in how he treats Millie...
...And over and over again we hear about Millie being an independent woman...how she isn’t afraid to stand up for herself. She’ll say what’s on her mind and won’t let anyone trample on her. But when it comes to Blair, we don’t see that at all! Many times, Blair is absolutely horrible to Millie...he’s rude, dismissive, and downright callous. Yet, over and over again, Millie is willing to bear his derision; she’s willing to bear the blame for his anger and self-pity. And I just don’t understand it. So by the time we reach the moment that Millie and Blair decide to be together in a more permanent way, I am happy to get an HEA. But I’m mostly confused, hesitant, and *REALLY* desperate for MORE...a sequel, a Blair POV, something!
A couple more comments:
--I really enjoy Millie’s relationships with her parents and friends. The banter between them is hilarious! For example, I love Abby! She’s a pretty hilarious character, and her interactions with Millie are great. When Millie is embarrassed about admitting, out loud, that she wants to sleep with Blair...in front of him:
Abby: “There’s nothing a bit of telly won’t fix. You’ll forget about being a sexual predator in no time.” BWAHAHAHAHAH!
--The sexy times are ABSOLUTELY, INCREDIBLY HOT!
Millie and Blair’s first time together...ON THE STAIRS...
“Our situations are reversed. He’s the boss and I am the willing servant, taking his punishment and his pleasures i n equal measure...he thrusts again, hitting me so deeply I cry out from the delicious discomfort...I, Emilia Pembroke, who’s never really been adventurous in bed, is now being unceremoniously fucked by her butler on the stairs of the family’s London residence.” LAWWWWWWWD!
Then their second time against Blair’s bedroom door...
“Every woman should feel the liberation of having her tits on display and bouncing , while a well-endowed man thrusts in and out of her.” *DED*DED*DED*
Their third time together in Millie’s bed...
“I moan over and over as he changes his technique, licking me slowly and surely in long strokes before holding my hips down as he laps with more vigour.” GHTUDGFHFJFSJFHJAHFHFAK!!!!!!!!!!!!
The passion between them Blair and Millie is FANTASTIC, and they can be quite possessive of one another. I LOVE when he calls her Emilia...hell, I love when he calls her m’lady too, especially in bed!
But as I mention before, that passion quickly deteriorates to antagonism, which is frustrating.
Overall, I laugh a lot, perv a lot, and (to be honest) rage a lot.
I am *begging* Fraser for more...and I think a the ending of the book leaves things wide open for a sequel, preferably from Blair’s perspective.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2013
2.5 stars, rounding up bc I'm feeling generous. It's a great concept for a story - hot butler & haute british society girl. Family strife, secret "interactions." But somehow it fell disappointingly flat.
Overly wordy - I'd say 70% of this book is Millie's internal monologue. And she wants to be funny... But Bridget Jones (or Jemima J) she is not. Not by a long shot. The "try" is there on every. tedious. page. Sometimes it's endearing (like it is with the sharply edited Ms. Jones) but mostly it's frustrating. This read like mediocre fan fiction (where each chapter was kind of its own rambling thing before remembering it had a role to play in actually moving the story forward) & a tighter editing could really have benefited the final product.
We're given detail upon detail of conversations with Polly & the trip to Dubai, and chitchat with Abby - but the constant hints of info dropped about Millie's mysterious brother, her parents on-again-off-again relationship, and Blair's background hardly go anywhere. NOTHING ever really comes of it. Nothing is revealed!! and, its not bc its a cliffie - the author just never brings those major story lines to fruition. And those were really the only reasons I kept reading. I kept waiting for the big payoff, the big "a-HA!!!" moment! Silly me, with Marchetta-like expectations for some big revelation that would tie up all the vague-mystery of Alistair, the mom's hiring (& hinted at attachment to) Blair, and the dad's reluctance to leave the estate... But nothing.
And don't even get me started on the lack of Blair. While we're fed ALL the insight to Emilia, hardly any is given for Blair. Why does he love her? What's the deeper attraction? Show me how he's working thru coming to terms with his past & his job & his future. And CLEARLY there's something worth exploring with his penchant for dominant, rough sex! (Which was hot btw!) That's CLEARLY part of his struggle to come to terms with being a "submissive" in terms of his career & social standing. If the 2nd book is willing to explore that angle, as well as the two of them making a life together without money, then MAYBE I'd be willing to read it.
I feel like with tighter editing & a more consistent story direction this author could have a fun little novel on her hands. I hope this happens before the 2nd book.
Overly wordy - I'd say 70% of this book is Millie's internal monologue. And she wants to be funny... But Bridget Jones (or Jemima J) she is not. Not by a long shot. The "try" is there on every. tedious. page. Sometimes it's endearing (like it is with the sharply edited Ms. Jones) but mostly it's frustrating. This read like mediocre fan fiction (where each chapter was kind of its own rambling thing before remembering it had a role to play in actually moving the story forward) & a tighter editing could really have benefited the final product.
We're given detail upon detail of conversations with Polly & the trip to Dubai, and chitchat with Abby - but the constant hints of info dropped about Millie's mysterious brother, her parents on-again-off-again relationship, and Blair's background hardly go anywhere. NOTHING ever really comes of it. Nothing is revealed!! and, its not bc its a cliffie - the author just never brings those major story lines to fruition. And those were really the only reasons I kept reading. I kept waiting for the big payoff, the big "a-HA!!!" moment! Silly me, with Marchetta-like expectations for some big revelation that would tie up all the vague-mystery of Alistair, the mom's hiring (& hinted at attachment to) Blair, and the dad's reluctance to leave the estate... But nothing.
And don't even get me started on the lack of Blair. While we're fed ALL the insight to Emilia, hardly any is given for Blair. Why does he love her? What's the deeper attraction? Show me how he's working thru coming to terms with his past & his job & his future. And CLEARLY there's something worth exploring with his penchant for dominant, rough sex! (Which was hot btw!) That's CLEARLY part of his struggle to come to terms with being a "submissive" in terms of his career & social standing. If the 2nd book is willing to explore that angle, as well as the two of them making a life together without money, then MAYBE I'd be willing to read it.
I feel like with tighter editing & a more consistent story direction this author could have a fun little novel on her hands. I hope this happens before the 2nd book.
May 15, 2013
5 Shiny bright stars to the lovely B.D. Fraser and her debut novel!! I absolutely ADORED this book, and could not put it down!
Millie (aka Lady Emilia) is a witty, sarcastic and rather sassy British aristocrat that comes to visit her mother in London for the summer. Lucky for her (and I do mean lucky), the dashing Blair Baxter is her mothers (and her) new butler. From that point on, Millie goes through an experience that would change her perspective forever about love, marriage, family and what's really is important - something she was raised and educated very differently on.
It's a lesson we should all learn from, and Millie and Blair make it just a lot more fun to ponder upon.
Seriously - READ THIS BOOK! I laughed out loud, cried, swooned, was anxious with Millie and aching with Blair, but also felt warm and fuzzy while devouring the pages. The dialogues are quite simply brilliant and the supporting characters are all truly charming and enjoyable. This book has everything - romance, humor, suspense and not to mention some pretty decent luxury pieces of clothing and accessories :-) All in all.. i really didn't want the book to end.
Read this book! You'll enjoy it, I promise :-)
Millie (aka Lady Emilia) is a witty, sarcastic and rather sassy British aristocrat that comes to visit her mother in London for the summer. Lucky for her (and I do mean lucky), the dashing Blair Baxter is her mothers (and her) new butler. From that point on, Millie goes through an experience that would change her perspective forever about love, marriage, family and what's really is important - something she was raised and educated very differently on.
It's a lesson we should all learn from, and Millie and Blair make it just a lot more fun to ponder upon.
Seriously - READ THIS BOOK! I laughed out loud, cried, swooned, was anxious with Millie and aching with Blair, but also felt warm and fuzzy while devouring the pages. The dialogues are quite simply brilliant and the supporting characters are all truly charming and enjoyable. This book has everything - romance, humor, suspense and not to mention some pretty decent luxury pieces of clothing and accessories :-) All in all.. i really didn't want the book to end.
Read this book! You'll enjoy it, I promise :-)
April 22, 2013
5 READ IT NOW HEARTS! 5 READ IT NOW HEARTS!
I know, I know…I very rarely begin my reviews with the rating right off the bat. That alone should tell you how much I FLOVED this book. It’s a gem, a treat, book nirvana…I could go on, but I think you get that it’s a book I’m highly recommending.
You can read the rest of my review here: http://bookishtemptations.com/2013/04...
I know, I know…I very rarely begin my reviews with the rating right off the bat. That alone should tell you how much I FLOVED this book. It’s a gem, a treat, book nirvana…I could go on, but I think you get that it’s a book I’m highly recommending.
You can read the rest of my review here: http://bookishtemptations.com/2013/04...
May 6, 2013
Amazing. Sexy. Witty. Hilarious.
From the beginning scenes, B.D. Fraser hooked me in, and I couldn't put the book down. Great descritions, fabulous character depth, and crisp dialogue kept my interest and kept me laughing.
The writing is fresh and flows smoothly. Quick paced throughout the book, the story ended all too soon.
I look forward to the next installment. I need more of Millie and Blair!
From the beginning scenes, B.D. Fraser hooked me in, and I couldn't put the book down. Great descritions, fabulous character depth, and crisp dialogue kept my interest and kept me laughing.
The writing is fresh and flows smoothly. Quick paced throughout the book, the story ended all too soon.
I look forward to the next installment. I need more of Millie and Blair!
April 19, 2013
**shrieks** THIS IS A SERIES?!
The end was like having a door slam in my face. Displeased.
Overall, very witty.
The end was like having a door slam in my face. Displeased.
Overall, very witty.
May 3, 2013
Perfection. I wish I had written it. Londoners will love it. A reverse Mr Darcy. My favourite read so far this year in any genre.
April 30, 2013
Fantastic story! Loved Millie and Blair.....hilarious banter and HOT!
August 16, 2022
DNF @ 47%
It’s tooooo dragggyyyyy and boringgggggg.
They don’t really have a chemistry and it’s just plain boring )))):
It’s tooooo dragggyyyyy and boringgggggg.
They don’t really have a chemistry and it’s just plain boring )))):
September 6, 2013
Lady: Impossible é um romance muito divertido, com uma personagem central muito original. Amélia pode não ser, até boa parte do livro, alguém em quem gostaríamos de nos espelhar, de ter como alter-ego. Filha de nobres ingleses, ela se vê em uma encruzilhada entre casar por conveniência, mesmo sendo com um ótimo partido, que, para falar a verdade, a agrada bastante ou apostar em seus sentimentos por um homem que, para falar o menos, realmente não está no grupo dos melhores partidos da sociedade inglesa. Em minha opinião particular, às vezes eu tinha a impressão que era um romance de época, considerando que diferenças sociais e financeiras não fossem mais obstáculos para qualquer relação mas, pensando melhor, acho que entre os nobres e os muito ricos, isso pode ainda ser um problema. Os diálogos do livro têm momentos memoráveis, repletos de humor e sarcasmo, além de ótimas referências literárias. A história é original, algo meio raro nos romances hoje em dia. Confesso que, em determinados momentos, senti um pouco prolixa a escrita da autora, como se alguma parte dos diálogos com os personagens de apoio pudesse ter sido editada, mas nada que retire desse romance seu valor! Diversão garantida com Amelia e sua falta de tato social e de controle de sua língua e de seu temperamento!
February 16, 2015
Disclaimer I love almost anything British (black pudding and kidney's excluded) and I love anything Posh & British even more.
This is a wonderful book for adults about Lady Emilia Pembrooke, heiress, late 20's unmarried. When she's not a part time graduate student at St. Andrews she's one of those girls you read about in Tattler or Harpers Bazaar. The ones who are at the influential gatherings, with the right people from the right schools who all are related back to the Conqueror.Since her brother has managed to be disinherited she will eventually receive the family lands and properties.
Think Lady Mary from Downton in 2012. With many of the traditional woes, not a suitor in sight, and dysfunctional family abounding she arrives in London to stay with her mother only to meet the new butler who is young, sexy and desirable. Shagging the help is still a no-no and Lady Sislbury has already scheduled an appointment at the top London (millionaire) mathch maker.
Millie can't keep her hands, or any other part of her, off the help and things aren't quite secure for the family finances.
The sex scenes are definitely NC-17 or 18+. And at 518 pages it is a long read. It is definitely fanciful and fun
This is a wonderful book for adults about Lady Emilia Pembrooke, heiress, late 20's unmarried. When she's not a part time graduate student at St. Andrews she's one of those girls you read about in Tattler or Harpers Bazaar. The ones who are at the influential gatherings, with the right people from the right schools who all are related back to the Conqueror.Since her brother has managed to be disinherited she will eventually receive the family lands and properties.
Think Lady Mary from Downton in 2012. With many of the traditional woes, not a suitor in sight, and dysfunctional family abounding she arrives in London to stay with her mother only to meet the new butler who is young, sexy and desirable. Shagging the help is still a no-no and Lady Sislbury has already scheduled an appointment at the top London (millionaire) mathch maker.
Millie can't keep her hands, or any other part of her, off the help and things aren't quite secure for the family finances.
The sex scenes are definitely NC-17 or 18+. And at 518 pages it is a long read. It is definitely fanciful and fun
September 12, 2013
My rating....2.5 stars out of 5. Well, this one didn’t live up to my expectations. This is the story of British high society, socialite Emilia Pembroke. She comes from a long line of prestigious family; a family with money. Emilia, or Millie as her friends call her, has just left the family estate to join her mother in London for the summer. She’s surprised to find that her mother has hired a butler for the family’s London home; a potentially scandalous topic as butler Blair Baxter is not your typical butler. He’s young, at 28, and exceedingly good looking. Millie is concerned that with the recent rumors of her parents divorce, that Blair could be seen as something other than just the butler. Add the disowned older brother, financial troubles for the family, hiring a matchmaker to find Millie a suitable husband, not to mention Millie’s own desire for the butler and there’s your story. This one had potential, but I feel that too many things were focused on. The book was long winded. It needed to be scaled back a bit.
Want to read
January 26, 2015Meet Lady Emilia Pembroke, only daughter of the Earl and Countess of Silsbury. Sharp-tongued, well educated and pretty, she arrives in London to spend the summer with her flighty mother, only to find a new addition to the household in the dashing form of Blair Baxter. Handsome, debonair and not yet thirty, this new butler scarcely fits the senior servant stereotype and seems to harbour secrets of his own. Before Millie can recover from the shock, her mother drops another bombshell: twenty-eight and unmarried – it’s high time Millie was sent to a matchmaker.
The problem is, it’s 2012, not 1912, and Millie sees little reason to rectify both her difficult attitude and her marital status. It’s only when her interest in Blair quickly gets out of hand that she agrees to be set up with charming investment banker Oliver Paten-Pryce. However, the spectre of family scandal remains omnipresent and, torn between rumours of financial strife and duty to her family, Millie is forced to face the perennial question – is money the be all and end all?
The problem is, it’s 2012, not 1912, and Millie sees little reason to rectify both her difficult attitude and her marital status. It’s only when her interest in Blair quickly gets out of hand that she agrees to be set up with charming investment banker Oliver Paten-Pryce. However, the spectre of family scandal remains omnipresent and, torn between rumours of financial strife and duty to her family, Millie is forced to face the perennial question – is money the be all and end all?
May 15, 2013
It did take me quite a while to warm up to Millie and by the end I'm still unsure if I like her all that much. Maybe I just find it hard to sympathize with the poor rich girl. Then again, she's on the brink of losing everything she's ever known and it's time for some radical life changes. I suspect it's possible I would have liked her better from third person, but we'll never know. She has a lot of growing up to do.
On the other hand I really liked Blair. He's so conficted about their current situation yet at the end of the day he can't deny his feelings. His background though and motivations could have been more developed.
In writing this, I realize how some aspects of the story are slightly open ended and thus I'm curious what book 2 will bring. However, it is slow rather paced and a bit boring for me so I wonder if book 2 will be better in some respects.
On the other hand I really liked Blair. He's so conficted about their current situation yet at the end of the day he can't deny his feelings. His background though and motivations could have been more developed.
In writing this, I realize how some aspects of the story are slightly open ended and thus I'm curious what book 2 will bring. However, it is slow rather paced and a bit boring for me so I wonder if book 2 will be better in some respects.
September 17, 2016
Reading Lady Impossible: Matching Millie, was delightful. It has both of two worlds in one book. I think it’s rare to have this kind of theme written. A fast forward version of Downton Abbey. This book might be about love, but its setting that made this book richer and flavorful to read.
I still get the Regency romance flavor with the modern romance all over it. I can read the aristocracy and their intricate rituals and habits, yet also loose manners. A courteous courtship and rough sex scenes. Through the book I laughed a lot for the sarcasm enveloped in their banters. I believe Millie Pembroke’s struggle of juggling both worlds. Although the end could be perceived as cliffhanger to some, she overcame her most heartache.
I think BD Fraser wrote a good one and I can’t wait for the second book.
I still get the Regency romance flavor with the modern romance all over it. I can read the aristocracy and their intricate rituals and habits, yet also loose manners. A courteous courtship and rough sex scenes. Through the book I laughed a lot for the sarcasm enveloped in their banters. I believe Millie Pembroke’s struggle of juggling both worlds. Although the end could be perceived as cliffhanger to some, she overcame her most heartache.
I think BD Fraser wrote a good one and I can’t wait for the second book.
April 30, 2013
I loved this author's Twilight fan fiction, so I was very excited to read her first published original work. I have to say that I was a little disappointed. The book is overly wordy and gets a little monotonous in parts. I love the idea of the plot, but it moved along a little too slowly. Also, let's be honest, Lady Emilia just isn't very likable. It's also hard to like Blair. I like strong men in novels, but he came off as petulant, whiny, and weak. We'll see what book 2 holds when it is released.
May 27, 2014
I would probably give this book more like 4.5 stars. It's a bit of different premise.....rich woman who has a thing for the butler. He has a thing for her, but he needs this job and holds her at arms length. It's not the rich man dealing with the poor maid. You get how Lady Emilia's and Blair's worlds are so different yet you understand the both of them. It did read a bit long for me. I think that this could have been cut down, and why it's 4.5 stars. I've been more picky about my books and this is worth a read.
April 24, 2013
Right from the start I was laughing out loud and facepalming at the awkwardness of the main character, Millie, who has no filter whatsoever. I loved her interactions with Blair from the start. It was truly a delight to read (I tweeted my joy) and when I discovered that I had read some of the author's other work, I was dancing around the kitchen. Apparently we're not finished the story yet, there's mention of a sequel. Happy days!
May 15, 2013
Great premise, but way too long with no resolution of issues. Alastair's arc was never fully developed and I felt let down by the need for a sequel. This could have been condensed without losing the humor or the plot; however Blair was very 2D, and I never really liked Millie or her mother. Sorry. I wanted to love this, like I loved the author's fanfic, but it just fell flat.
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