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Armstrong Sisters #4
Rumors that Ruined a Lady
SPOTTED: LONDON'S FAVORITE FALLEN HEIRESS, TAKING UP WITH THE ROGUE MARQUIS!
Amongst the gossip-hungry ton, no name has become more synonymous with sin than that of Lady Caroline Rider, cast out by her husband and disowned by her family. Rumour has it that the infamous Caro is now seeking oblivion in the opium dens of London!
There's only one man who can save her: notorious rake Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow. Soon Caro is installed in his country home, warming his bed, but their passion may not be enough to protect them once news of their scandalous arrangement breaks out.
Amongst the gossip-hungry ton, no name has become more synonymous with sin than that of Lady Caroline Rider, cast out by her husband and disowned by her family. Rumour has it that the infamous Caro is now seeking oblivion in the opium dens of London!
There's only one man who can save her: notorious rake Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow. Soon Caro is installed in his country home, warming his bed, but their passion may not be enough to protect them once news of their scandalous arrangement breaks out.
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
4 people are currently reading
659 people want to read
About the author
Marguerite Kaye
247 books345 followersMarguerite Kaye is a prolific historical romance author hailing from Argyll’s West Coast. She is a voracious consumer of books, Scotland’s world-class larder, and the occasional cocktail.
Find out more on her website at www.margueritekaye.com
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Find out more on her website at www.margueritekaye.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
October 30, 2017
We meet Lady Caroline Rider when she is off her face on opium in some dodgy place, where she is found by a notorious rake, Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow who had sworn to himself he would never have anything more to do with that blasted woman. So obviously things are off to a great start.
To be honest, I wouldn’t mind if their self-destructing tendencies, angst and misgivings lasted longer but that just tells you less about the book and more about some issues of mine which should probably be addressed during some extended therapy. I really don’t know why I wish the worst upon the characters. I promise I would never engage in this sort of toxic relationship in real life. I’m terribly sensible and unromantic in real life (again – issues, therapy).
But let’s leave my bizarre sadistic tendencies and focus on the book. It basically tells you what happens when you listen to your father and follow his advice. Yes, you guessed it: domestic violence, drugs and scandal.
Caroline is another of the Armstrong sisters who are trying to send their father to an early grave by running off with foreigners (you can read about their adventures in the previous books). All things considered, Caroline should be her father’s favourite daughter. First she marries whom her father chooses and then, when that doesn’t quite work out, she at least has the decency to fall for a titled English gentleman. Her father should be thankful, but seriously, there is no pleasing that man. I’m not quite sure if there is any Armstrong sister still left unwed but if there is, she should just stop trying to earn her father’s approval. And, as it turns out, her stupidest idea will work out better than whatever her father, renowned diplomat, has planned for her.
I must congratulate Marguerite Kaye on the pacing of ‘Rumours that Ruined a Lady’. It proved unputdownable and it’s probably my favourite book of hers so far. I was so engrossed in it that I was still reading it when we were hiking in Howth until my mother scolded me for reading rather than enjoying the views. But I kept on reading, because if there was one thing I learnt from this book is that you should never do what your parents tell you to do.
To be honest, I wouldn’t mind if their self-destructing tendencies, angst and misgivings lasted longer but that just tells you less about the book and more about some issues of mine which should probably be addressed during some extended therapy. I really don’t know why I wish the worst upon the characters. I promise I would never engage in this sort of toxic relationship in real life. I’m terribly sensible and unromantic in real life (again – issues, therapy).
But let’s leave my bizarre sadistic tendencies and focus on the book. It basically tells you what happens when you listen to your father and follow his advice. Yes, you guessed it: domestic violence, drugs and scandal.
Caroline is another of the Armstrong sisters who are trying to send their father to an early grave by running off with foreigners (you can read about their adventures in the previous books). All things considered, Caroline should be her father’s favourite daughter. First she marries whom her father chooses and then, when that doesn’t quite work out, she at least has the decency to fall for a titled English gentleman. Her father should be thankful, but seriously, there is no pleasing that man. I’m not quite sure if there is any Armstrong sister still left unwed but if there is, she should just stop trying to earn her father’s approval. And, as it turns out, her stupidest idea will work out better than whatever her father, renowned diplomat, has planned for her.
I must congratulate Marguerite Kaye on the pacing of ‘Rumours that Ruined a Lady’. It proved unputdownable and it’s probably my favourite book of hers so far. I was so engrossed in it that I was still reading it when we were hiking in Howth until my mother scolded me for reading rather than enjoying the views. But I kept on reading, because if there was one thing I learnt from this book is that you should never do what your parents tell you to do.
June 28, 2016
I've given this an A- at AAR, so 4.5 stars rounded up.
This is my first read for the 2016 TBR Challenge, and the prompt is We Love Shorts!, which means choosing a novella, short story or category novel.
Marguerite Kaye is someone I know can always be relied upon to deliver a well-written, character driven romance that plays out against an interesting and well-researched historical background. The fact that she can do all that so very well in under three hundred pages never ceases to amaze me; and to that, Rumours that Ruined a Lady adds a storyline with a difference – one that features an element not often found in historical romances, principally, I imagine, due to the fact that its presence renders the possibility of an HEA for the protagonists practically impossible.
The book’s heroine, Lady Caroline Rider, is separated from the cold, abusive husband her father chose for her and refuses to return to him. Her sisters – whose stories are told in the other books in this series about the Armstrong Sisters – are all happily settled and out of the country, her father has disowned her and Caro has nowhere to turn. It’s hard to imagine now, but a woman in her position really would have been viewed as the lowest of the low by the society in which she had previously lived, and her family would have been expected to cut all ties with her if they didn’t want to suffer the same treatment.
All her life, Caroline had been the dutiful daughter, the only one who married the man chosen for her, in spite of the fact that she loved someone else. That someone else was Sebastian Conway, the Earl of Mosteyn and heir to the tyrannical Marquess of Ardhallow who lived on the neighbouring estate. The couple meet when Caro is just sixteen, and the affinity between them is instantaneous. Over the next few years, they become close friends and even though Caro eventually realises she has fallen in love, she also knows that Sebastian’s family history has rendered him uninterested in marriage, and so has no expectations. But Sebastian’s rakish reputation and Lord Armstrong’s desire for Caroline to make a good marriage eventually come between them, and when Sebastian leaves to travel abroad, she is married off to the eligible Sir Graeme Rider.
The book opens some eleven years after the protagonists’ first meeting when Sebastian, now the Marquess of Ardhallow, unexpectedly discovers Caro passed out from opium at a society party. Even though part of him is still angry about what happened between them the last time they met two years previously and wants to walk away, he can’t just leave her, especially when he realises she has ingested the drug and that her life is in danger.
He removes her to his country estate to recuperate, and as she recovers, they begin to rediscover the love they’d once shared. At the same time, Sebastian finds out what has brought the bright, vivacious Caroline he knew to this, a broken woman, abandoned by those who should have stood by her with her name being dragged through the mud in the scandal sheets and her reputation in shreds. Their backstory unfolds in flashback, which is a favourite device of mine when done well, which is certainly the case here.
This is a darker story than many of the other historical romances out there, but it’s incredibly well written and the principals are strongly drawn, engaging and fully rounded. Sebastian may have a reputation as a rake, but he is a caring man and devoted to Caro, whom he has obviously loved for years. And she is a strong person, even though she has been beaten down by life, and finally finds the courage she needs in Sebastian’s love for her to finally stand up to her autocratic father and to determine to live her life on her own terms. They have great chemistry, and the intensity of their feelings for one another is palpable and leaps off the page.
Right from the start, it seems that an HEA for this troubled but deserving couple is going to be an impossibility. Caro’s husband refuses to divorce her, and Sebastian must marry and produce an heir in order to do his duty to his title, and the idea that they cannot be together because of the weight of society’s expectations after everything they have been through is truly heart-breaking. Rest-assured that there IS happiness in store for Caro and Sebastian, but it comes rather unconventionally – which perfectly fits this unconventional tale.
Ms Kaye has clearly researched this aspect of her story very well indeed, and explains more in her detailed author’s note, which should definitely be read after finishing it. I was impressed with the fact that she has not waved a magic wand and taken the easy way out of Caro and Sebastian’s dilemma, which adds another note of realism to a book in which she has painted an incredibly vivid, warts-and-all picture of the manners and mores of the society in which its hero and heroine have to live.
Rumours That Ruined a Lady is a wonderful although not always easy read in which the author has pushed at the boundaries of what readers normally expect in an historical romance. In doing so, she has created a compelling, wonderfully romantic story that pulls at the heartstrings and, at times, makes the modern woman want to scream in frustration at what a woman in Caro’s situation had to endure. Even had a divorce been an option, it would have been incredibly difficult and long-winded, and, in addition to disgrace and social ostracism, she would have barred from marrying again, and faced a life in which she was cut off from friends and family and denied legally sanctioned love and companionship.
Sebastian and Caro have a difficult road to travel, but that only serves to make their eventual happiness even more richly deserved. Rumours That Ruined a Lady is a terrific, angsty read and one I’m recommending strongly.
This is my first read for the 2016 TBR Challenge, and the prompt is We Love Shorts!, which means choosing a novella, short story or category novel.
Marguerite Kaye is someone I know can always be relied upon to deliver a well-written, character driven romance that plays out against an interesting and well-researched historical background. The fact that she can do all that so very well in under three hundred pages never ceases to amaze me; and to that, Rumours that Ruined a Lady adds a storyline with a difference – one that features an element not often found in historical romances, principally, I imagine, due to the fact that its presence renders the possibility of an HEA for the protagonists practically impossible.
The book’s heroine, Lady Caroline Rider, is separated from the cold, abusive husband her father chose for her and refuses to return to him. Her sisters – whose stories are told in the other books in this series about the Armstrong Sisters – are all happily settled and out of the country, her father has disowned her and Caro has nowhere to turn. It’s hard to imagine now, but a woman in her position really would have been viewed as the lowest of the low by the society in which she had previously lived, and her family would have been expected to cut all ties with her if they didn’t want to suffer the same treatment.
All her life, Caroline had been the dutiful daughter, the only one who married the man chosen for her, in spite of the fact that she loved someone else. That someone else was Sebastian Conway, the Earl of Mosteyn and heir to the tyrannical Marquess of Ardhallow who lived on the neighbouring estate. The couple meet when Caro is just sixteen, and the affinity between them is instantaneous. Over the next few years, they become close friends and even though Caro eventually realises she has fallen in love, she also knows that Sebastian’s family history has rendered him uninterested in marriage, and so has no expectations. But Sebastian’s rakish reputation and Lord Armstrong’s desire for Caroline to make a good marriage eventually come between them, and when Sebastian leaves to travel abroad, she is married off to the eligible Sir Graeme Rider.
The book opens some eleven years after the protagonists’ first meeting when Sebastian, now the Marquess of Ardhallow, unexpectedly discovers Caro passed out from opium at a society party. Even though part of him is still angry about what happened between them the last time they met two years previously and wants to walk away, he can’t just leave her, especially when he realises she has ingested the drug and that her life is in danger.
He removes her to his country estate to recuperate, and as she recovers, they begin to rediscover the love they’d once shared. At the same time, Sebastian finds out what has brought the bright, vivacious Caroline he knew to this, a broken woman, abandoned by those who should have stood by her with her name being dragged through the mud in the scandal sheets and her reputation in shreds. Their backstory unfolds in flashback, which is a favourite device of mine when done well, which is certainly the case here.
This is a darker story than many of the other historical romances out there, but it’s incredibly well written and the principals are strongly drawn, engaging and fully rounded. Sebastian may have a reputation as a rake, but he is a caring man and devoted to Caro, whom he has obviously loved for years. And she is a strong person, even though she has been beaten down by life, and finally finds the courage she needs in Sebastian’s love for her to finally stand up to her autocratic father and to determine to live her life on her own terms. They have great chemistry, and the intensity of their feelings for one another is palpable and leaps off the page.
Right from the start, it seems that an HEA for this troubled but deserving couple is going to be an impossibility. Caro’s husband refuses to divorce her, and Sebastian must marry and produce an heir in order to do his duty to his title, and the idea that they cannot be together because of the weight of society’s expectations after everything they have been through is truly heart-breaking. Rest-assured that there IS happiness in store for Caro and Sebastian, but it comes rather unconventionally – which perfectly fits this unconventional tale.
Ms Kaye has clearly researched this aspect of her story very well indeed, and explains more in her detailed author’s note, which should definitely be read after finishing it. I was impressed with the fact that she has not waved a magic wand and taken the easy way out of Caro and Sebastian’s dilemma, which adds another note of realism to a book in which she has painted an incredibly vivid, warts-and-all picture of the manners and mores of the society in which its hero and heroine have to live.
Rumours That Ruined a Lady is a wonderful although not always easy read in which the author has pushed at the boundaries of what readers normally expect in an historical romance. In doing so, she has created a compelling, wonderfully romantic story that pulls at the heartstrings and, at times, makes the modern woman want to scream in frustration at what a woman in Caro’s situation had to endure. Even had a divorce been an option, it would have been incredibly difficult and long-winded, and, in addition to disgrace and social ostracism, she would have barred from marrying again, and faced a life in which she was cut off from friends and family and denied legally sanctioned love and companionship.
Sebastian and Caro have a difficult road to travel, but that only serves to make their eventual happiness even more richly deserved. Rumours That Ruined a Lady is a terrific, angsty read and one I’m recommending strongly.
October 17, 2013
'Her hair was as vibrant as ever, shimmering in the flame of the candlelight, and her eyes were still that remarkable shade of summer blue. Four years. He thought he had forgotten her. He was mistaken.'
My thoughts
I was very generously given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. As I'd read 'The Beauty Within', the story of Caro's sister Cressida, I was eager to read this one and discover more about the notorious Caro. Caro has been very unlucky lately; her husband has cast her out, and the shame has caused her father to disown her. With nobody left in the world,life is difficult for Caro and at this point I really felt for her.
I loved the relationship between Caro and Sebastian, it's obvious from the start how perfect they are for each other. Their conversations would always make me laugh with the back and forth between them. As I read on, I could see that their personalities were very similar, and the scenes between them really made this book special for me.
When I read 'The Beauty Within', I started to dislike Lord Armstrong, Caro's father. The way he treated his daughters was appalling, especially when he had sons. He seems to use his daughters for his gain, trying to marry them off with rich and powerful men, and as soon as they defy him, he disowns them. This book definitely made me dislike him even more, he doesn't appear to care for any of his daughters, especially Caro. Having a character to dislike definitely added to my enjoyment of the story however; there always needs to be a villain and for me, that's Lord Armstrong in this book.
I loved how this book was written; it starts off with Sebastian finding Caro in an Opium den, and we get the impression that they have a history together, but he doesn't go into any detail at first. As you read on, there's flashbacks from the previous occasions when Sebastian and Caro met. The first flashback is from the first time they met, when Caro was sixteen. As the story progresses, the flashbacks become more recent, and we get a clear picture of what happened between them in the past. I found this way of writing to be very interesting, instead of finding out what happened straight away, we're left in suspense until the next flashback, and this kept me coming back for more.
Overall, I loved this book and was completely hooked on it. It only took me a few days to read, and it kept me awake until the early hours reading. I just couldn't get enough of Caro and Sebastian; as their lives and histories unfolded I was unable to put this book down for more than a few hours at a time. I love to read Historical Fiction, I've always found it intriguing, and this is definitely up there with my favourites. I'd definitely recommend this for anyone looking for a fascinating romance story.
My thoughts
I was very generously given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. As I'd read 'The Beauty Within', the story of Caro's sister Cressida, I was eager to read this one and discover more about the notorious Caro. Caro has been very unlucky lately; her husband has cast her out, and the shame has caused her father to disown her. With nobody left in the world,life is difficult for Caro and at this point I really felt for her.
I loved the relationship between Caro and Sebastian, it's obvious from the start how perfect they are for each other. Their conversations would always make me laugh with the back and forth between them. As I read on, I could see that their personalities were very similar, and the scenes between them really made this book special for me.
When I read 'The Beauty Within', I started to dislike Lord Armstrong, Caro's father. The way he treated his daughters was appalling, especially when he had sons. He seems to use his daughters for his gain, trying to marry them off with rich and powerful men, and as soon as they defy him, he disowns them. This book definitely made me dislike him even more, he doesn't appear to care for any of his daughters, especially Caro. Having a character to dislike definitely added to my enjoyment of the story however; there always needs to be a villain and for me, that's Lord Armstrong in this book.
I loved how this book was written; it starts off with Sebastian finding Caro in an Opium den, and we get the impression that they have a history together, but he doesn't go into any detail at first. As you read on, there's flashbacks from the previous occasions when Sebastian and Caro met. The first flashback is from the first time they met, when Caro was sixteen. As the story progresses, the flashbacks become more recent, and we get a clear picture of what happened between them in the past. I found this way of writing to be very interesting, instead of finding out what happened straight away, we're left in suspense until the next flashback, and this kept me coming back for more.
Overall, I loved this book and was completely hooked on it. It only took me a few days to read, and it kept me awake until the early hours reading. I just couldn't get enough of Caro and Sebastian; as their lives and histories unfolded I was unable to put this book down for more than a few hours at a time. I love to read Historical Fiction, I've always found it intriguing, and this is definitely up there with my favourites. I'd definitely recommend this for anyone looking for a fascinating romance story.
September 2, 2013
A darker romance that's lovely all the same. Rumors That Ruined a Lady is not your average romance. An already married heroine who we first see dying from opium overdose. A hero who was in love with the heroine but left her. And a truly scandalous romance. This book is very different and that's what made it so wonderful.
Caro has not had the best few years. She fell in love with a rake (Sebastian) but, when her reputation started suffering for the time they spent together, he left for her sake. She was forced into marriage to a cold and cruel man. She finally left her husband and was disowned by her father for it. And, now, to forget all this, she tried to lose herself in opium. Too bad she didn't realize that the amount she took could have killed her. And now she finds herself in the care of the rake who left her. Poor girl can't catch a break. I really liked her. She was very strong and dealt with a lot, but still remained standing. She was a likable character and I thought she was great.
Sebastian was also wonderful. He might have reputation as a rogue, but he really is sweet. It was so adorable how devoted he was to Caro, even when things weren't too good between them. I really liked him. I thought he was a brilliant hero.
The romance was intense. With the feelings left over from their old fling and their new feelings growing, it was a deep and strong romance. And with all that intense longing, it was very sweet. Not to mention the chemistry between these two. Wow, did it get hot between them. All that was made even more intense by the fact that they can't be together completely, considering Caro's marriage. It was a roller coaster of a relationship. I thought they were a lovely couple.
The plot was a weak point in that I wasn't entirely hooked all the way through. I was kept interested but some parts were less interesting than others. But, I was still drawn into the story. This book takes scandal to a whole new level. I was never entirely sure what was going to happen. And the ending. For a while I was unsure if Caro and Sebastian were going to get their happy ending. Things weren't exactly going their way. Even up until the last chapter. But, Ms. Kaye had a trick up her sleeve. And thank goodness for that. I was prepared to throw a huge fit if they didn't get their happy ending. Rest assured, they do, and in a very surprising way.
Rumors That Ruined a Lady was a lovely historical romance. It was different, but in a way that made it even better. Lovers of the genre, this is a book that you definitely don't want to miss.
*Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for a copy!
Caro has not had the best few years. She fell in love with a rake (Sebastian) but, when her reputation started suffering for the time they spent together, he left for her sake. She was forced into marriage to a cold and cruel man. She finally left her husband and was disowned by her father for it. And, now, to forget all this, she tried to lose herself in opium. Too bad she didn't realize that the amount she took could have killed her. And now she finds herself in the care of the rake who left her. Poor girl can't catch a break. I really liked her. She was very strong and dealt with a lot, but still remained standing. She was a likable character and I thought she was great.
Sebastian was also wonderful. He might have reputation as a rogue, but he really is sweet. It was so adorable how devoted he was to Caro, even when things weren't too good between them. I really liked him. I thought he was a brilliant hero.
The romance was intense. With the feelings left over from their old fling and their new feelings growing, it was a deep and strong romance. And with all that intense longing, it was very sweet. Not to mention the chemistry between these two. Wow, did it get hot between them. All that was made even more intense by the fact that they can't be together completely, considering Caro's marriage. It was a roller coaster of a relationship. I thought they were a lovely couple.
The plot was a weak point in that I wasn't entirely hooked all the way through. I was kept interested but some parts were less interesting than others. But, I was still drawn into the story. This book takes scandal to a whole new level. I was never entirely sure what was going to happen. And the ending. For a while I was unsure if Caro and Sebastian were going to get their happy ending. Things weren't exactly going their way. Even up until the last chapter. But, Ms. Kaye had a trick up her sleeve. And thank goodness for that. I was prepared to throw a huge fit if they didn't get their happy ending. Rest assured, they do, and in a very surprising way.
Rumors That Ruined a Lady was a lovely historical romance. It was different, but in a way that made it even better. Lovers of the genre, this is a book that you definitely don't want to miss.
*Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for a copy!
November 1, 2013
Captivating!
Two people who really were soul mates. Circumstances, duty and family kept them apart.
Caro, Lady Caroline Rider, always wanting evidence of her father's love, is used as a pawn in her father' larger game of Marital Chess for his daughters. (As her sister Cressida calls the whole debutante Marriage Mart process).
Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow, all his life rejected by his father, is conversely both a rake in society and a recluse when on his estate.
Both are shaped by their upbringing and need for approval.
With family estates adjoining, Caroline and Sebastian meet when sixteen year old Caro trespasses. An memorable time for both of them.
Eleven years after this initial meeting Sebastian finds Caro almost dead from ingesting opium at a society party.
Caro having left her husband and a farcical, abusive marriage, has been disowned by her father. Near destitution she has given up all hope.
Sebastian takes her back to his estate to recover.
The story develops from there. We are taken back in time to vignettes of significant instances, where over the years they have renewed their acquaintance prior to the present.
Would they overcome the very real obstacles before them, much less acknowledge how they felt about each other?
Would they bow to the very real pressures of their time and society?
I really liked both Sebastian and Caro as leading characters.
The gradual blossoming of their love over the years and more importantly over the last intensive months is beautifully told.
All does not flow smoothly. Their struggles and subsequent growth is poignant. Their sexual encounters are at once reasonably explicit, yet tasteful.
As the story unfolded I was captivated.
Keyes gives an insightful introduction into her writing process, how she shepherded the characters to where they now move from and what she is trying to achieve.
Issues surrounding woman as property in marriage, the difficulty of divorce both in terms of ecclesiastical and legal requirements, legal status and financial responsibilities, social stigma, divorce and children during Regency times are raised. Things that seem far away from todays perspective. We should remember that overall no-fault divorce has only been around from about 1968 to mid 70's. Not so very long ago.
This was an enjoyable read. So much so that the family nearly missed out on dinner. I was too engrossed to shop, let alone cook.
A NetGalley ARC
Two people who really were soul mates. Circumstances, duty and family kept them apart.
Caro, Lady Caroline Rider, always wanting evidence of her father's love, is used as a pawn in her father' larger game of Marital Chess for his daughters. (As her sister Cressida calls the whole debutante Marriage Mart process).
Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow, all his life rejected by his father, is conversely both a rake in society and a recluse when on his estate.
Both are shaped by their upbringing and need for approval.
With family estates adjoining, Caroline and Sebastian meet when sixteen year old Caro trespasses. An memorable time for both of them.
Eleven years after this initial meeting Sebastian finds Caro almost dead from ingesting opium at a society party.
Caro having left her husband and a farcical, abusive marriage, has been disowned by her father. Near destitution she has given up all hope.
Sebastian takes her back to his estate to recover.
The story develops from there. We are taken back in time to vignettes of significant instances, where over the years they have renewed their acquaintance prior to the present.
Would they overcome the very real obstacles before them, much less acknowledge how they felt about each other?
Would they bow to the very real pressures of their time and society?
I really liked both Sebastian and Caro as leading characters.
The gradual blossoming of their love over the years and more importantly over the last intensive months is beautifully told.
All does not flow smoothly. Their struggles and subsequent growth is poignant. Their sexual encounters are at once reasonably explicit, yet tasteful.
As the story unfolded I was captivated.
Keyes gives an insightful introduction into her writing process, how she shepherded the characters to where they now move from and what she is trying to achieve.
Issues surrounding woman as property in marriage, the difficulty of divorce both in terms of ecclesiastical and legal requirements, legal status and financial responsibilities, social stigma, divorce and children during Regency times are raised. Things that seem far away from todays perspective. We should remember that overall no-fault divorce has only been around from about 1968 to mid 70's. Not so very long ago.
This was an enjoyable read. So much so that the family nearly missed out on dinner. I was too engrossed to shop, let alone cook.
A NetGalley ARC
January 25, 2022
Dnf at 60 % mark.
November 1, 2013
I will say up front, I felt uncomfortable with one aspect of this story. It is no spoiler to say that Caro is a married woman through most of it apart from flashbacks. It is in fact the whole premise of the external conflict that will be the thing that prevents a happy ending. I couldn't quite forget that, which is why I couldn't give it five stars.
The story itself is beautifully written and the characters are well rounded and very appealing. You couldn't help but be sorry about the whole mess that dated back to their early meetings because of the actions and machinations of their respective fathers.
Overall it was a fast read with only a couple of slow parts in the flashbacks. The romance between Sebastian and Caro was very real and developed progressively. There was however a sadness at missed opportunities. The relationship was so obviously meant to be right from the first meeting when Caro was sixteen and Sebastian only twenty.
If you love realistic romance that is beautifully crafted, this is definitely worth reading.
The story itself is beautifully written and the characters are well rounded and very appealing. You couldn't help but be sorry about the whole mess that dated back to their early meetings because of the actions and machinations of their respective fathers.
Overall it was a fast read with only a couple of slow parts in the flashbacks. The romance between Sebastian and Caro was very real and developed progressively. There was however a sadness at missed opportunities. The relationship was so obviously meant to be right from the first meeting when Caro was sixteen and Sebastian only twenty.
If you love realistic romance that is beautifully crafted, this is definitely worth reading.
December 27, 2013
I would subtitle this book "The Perils Of Marrying The Man Your Emotionally Distant Father Chooses For You." The author does a good job of detailing what little recourse women had in the 19th century to extricate themselves from a-hole husbands. The flashbacks utilized in telling the backstory work well, and there's a ton of glorious angst. One of those romances where you really do wonder, how the heck are these two ever going to get together? But they do. Yippee!
December 28, 2020
Rumors That Ruined A Lady is historical romance and book #4 of The Armstrong Sisters series. Lady Caroline Armstrong (Caro) has left her abusive husband, but with few options for her future, she tries to seek oblivion via opium.
Sebastian Conway, the new Marquis of Ardhallow, found Caro passed out at a party. Recognising her as the daughter of his neighbour, he rescues her from the brink of death. Now she is his house guest and while they are reminded of their past attraction for each other, news of their scandalous set up reaches her disapproving father.
At a time when the law favoured men and married women had few rights, divorce was rare. The author has spun an interesting tale around the theme of marriage separation in an era when polite society quickly shunned those who didn’t behave as expected.
Although this is part of a series this book is easily readable as a stand alone story. A passionate romance with a real will-they, won’t-they question about the relationship between Caro and Sebastian written around the English laws of marriage during the 1830s.
Sebastian Conway, the new Marquis of Ardhallow, found Caro passed out at a party. Recognising her as the daughter of his neighbour, he rescues her from the brink of death. Now she is his house guest and while they are reminded of their past attraction for each other, news of their scandalous set up reaches her disapproving father.
At a time when the law favoured men and married women had few rights, divorce was rare. The author has spun an interesting tale around the theme of marriage separation in an era when polite society quickly shunned those who didn’t behave as expected.
Although this is part of a series this book is easily readable as a stand alone story. A passionate romance with a real will-they, won’t-they question about the relationship between Caro and Sebastian written around the English laws of marriage during the 1830s.
October 29, 2013
RUMORS THAT RUINED A LADY by Marguerite Kaye is an exciting Regency Historical Romance set in 1819-1839 London. Series: Harlequin Historical Series , #1161. "Armstrong Sisters" #4, but can be read as a stand alone. Visit the author's website for a more on the previous "Armstrong Sisters" series. See," Innocent in the Sheikh's Harem (Celia)", Harlequin Historical, June 2011
" The Governess and the Sheikh (Cassandra)", Harlequin Historical, August 2011 and
"The Beauty Within (Cressida)", Harlequin Historical, May 2013.
Fast paced story. This is Lady Caroline Rider,aka Caro and Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow's story and what a story! Filled with passion, secrets, scandal, gossip,romance and love. Gossip and scandal may just be that gossip for Caro has been disowned by her family as scandalous, cast aside by her husband and labeled as sin itself. But things are not always as they appear. Sebastian,an old friend or her brother's ex-friend, is determined to save her from the delirium of opium and the opium dens of London. So he installs her in his country estate to protect her from gossip and save her from her opium delirium. Passion ignites, and where their is passion and desire, gossip and scandal will follow. While, divorce is not an option for Caroline, she can not bring herself to ruin Sebastian, she must leave him to save him from ruination. But can she live without Sebastian in her life? Can Sebastian live without Caro? What follows is heart warming, emotional and compelling. I love this author's stories. The Armstrong Sisters are strong, determined and passionate. With compelling, passionate, and engaging characters you will not go wrong with "Rumors That Ruined a Lady". Received for an honest review from the author and Net Galley.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
" The Governess and the Sheikh (Cassandra)", Harlequin Historical, August 2011 and
"The Beauty Within (Cressida)", Harlequin Historical, May 2013.
Fast paced story. This is Lady Caroline Rider,aka Caro and Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow's story and what a story! Filled with passion, secrets, scandal, gossip,romance and love. Gossip and scandal may just be that gossip for Caro has been disowned by her family as scandalous, cast aside by her husband and labeled as sin itself. But things are not always as they appear. Sebastian,an old friend or her brother's ex-friend, is determined to save her from the delirium of opium and the opium dens of London. So he installs her in his country estate to protect her from gossip and save her from her opium delirium. Passion ignites, and where their is passion and desire, gossip and scandal will follow. While, divorce is not an option for Caroline, she can not bring herself to ruin Sebastian, she must leave him to save him from ruination. But can she live without Sebastian in her life? Can Sebastian live without Caro? What follows is heart warming, emotional and compelling. I love this author's stories. The Armstrong Sisters are strong, determined and passionate. With compelling, passionate, and engaging characters you will not go wrong with "Rumors That Ruined a Lady". Received for an honest review from the author and Net Galley.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
February 11, 2016
I only read this book on Caz recommendations loved it. I think it could have had a much more attractive cover
December 15, 2013
This review is from: Rumours that Ruined a Lady (Mills & Boon Historical) (Paperback)
Lady Caroline Armstrong, the second eldest of the five Armstrong sisters finds herself attracted to the rake 'next door' when she accidentally meets him aged 16yrs, while trespassing on the grounds of his ancestral home, Crag Hall. But her father, Lord Armstrong has better plans for this, his most dutiful of daughters; and her potential to further his own political career more advantageously, than to allow her to wed Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow and the notorious rake from the adjoining estate even although Sebs father is Lord Armstrongs old friend and is extremely rich and the holder of one of England's oldest titles
Caro knows that she will dutifully be a pawn in her ruthless father's game for political supremacy and she will agree to marry a man selected for her to that end. Sebastian knowing the futility of a future relationship with Caro, despite a growing mutual attraction and after receiving warnings from Lord Armstrong and his father to keep away from Caro, forsakes his rakish behaviour and decides to travel abroad - staying away for four years. In the mean time, unbeknown to him Caro marries the selected, Lord Rider, a facsimile of her ruthless, heir seeking, ambitious father! The marriage deteriorates - an heir is not forthcoming and the frustrated Lord Rider abuses Caro physically until she reaches a state of total desperation and that is where this tale begins.
It all begins at a pivotal point in Caro's life. Sebastian, who is at a ton party and bored with the tedious goings on there, and his old dissolute habits, wanders into the 'opium' room. He had encountered rather pleasant occasional experiences with the drug on the continent. However he is appalled by the degradation of the addicted humanity that he witnesses there and turns to leave when he sees a fall of a certain copper colour of hair that he knows only too well as being that of Lady Caroline Armstrong. It IS in fact the prostrate form of Lady Caroline Armstrong lying amongst the other drug users .. and she is showing signs of having seriously overdosed on Opium and is imminently at deaths door! After Sebs last pained contact with Caroline, when he told her 'If I never see you again it will be too soon' and the gossip branding her as an adulteress, he momentarily considers leaving Caro to her tragic fate, but his heart tells him that no matter what, she does not deserve such an end and he picks her up and carries her off to where she can be purged of the drug and to finally awaken in Sebs country home, Crag Hall where he takes her to recuperate and heal.
A new Caroline is born as a result of her brush with death. She realises that her whole life has been an apology and she determines to now live life on her own terms. The relationship between Caro and Seb is initially strained as he was hurt by her when she turns to him one night, after his return to England when they meet by chance at the theatre, for comfort and 'oblivion' in her beloved Seb's arms and bed. He is furious to learn that he has just made love to her as a married woman and she has failed to inform him of this important fact, only revealing same when he seeks to continue seeing her.
Later, of course, Seb learns the truth from Caro that all the rumours are just lies put out there by a rejected husband. Seb had himself witnessed bruises and a crooked finger on Caro's hand the night they had made love after the theatre. He questioned her about the bruises but not wanting his sympathy, she makes excuses and does not reveal that she is in an abusive marriage.
The old attraction begins to come alive again between Seb and Caro and there are happy, teasing and fun-filled times between them at Crag Hall during Caro's convalescence. The happiness and lightness between them brings in a welcome relief from the general atmosphere of hopelessness that dominates because of the plight of womenkind in society in that era where unhappily married women had little hope of gaining a divorce and were seen as the property of their husbands who could virtually deal with them as harshly as they wished and not be penalised or ostracised. Seb,had been living at Crag Hall as a recluse, beleagured by a haunting, pained past with his now deceased father. With Caro's promptings Seb begins to heal emotionally too.
If it becomes known that Caro is temporarily dwelling with Seb - it would mean that she would become even more of an outcast. Even in the face of their burgeoning love and passion for each other there seems no way out for them, but to permanently part so as not to further ruin the chances of the other by their remaining together at the risk of the anticipated societal condemnation and shame.
I felt the psychological 'darkness' of the times and it highlighted how things have changed these days which are not so far removed. I felt so deeply for the thwarted love between Sebastian and Caro - nowadays people who fall in love can be together so naturally unless, they too, fall under their particular cultures restrictive dictates.
There is so much more I could say about this absorbing book. I do not want to give too much away, however, I am resolved to seek out Marguerite Kaye books on Amazon, in libraries and bookstores or wherever I can find them. Seb and Caro remained with me long after I had read the last page of the book. Marguerite is not only a novelist that dreams up wonderful, creative, new and even 'risque' situations for her leading characters, but she also invites the reader to reflect on different challenging issues highlighted in her different novels. She is a teacher of sorts as well as a wonderful fresh voice in the world of historical romance and her novels do not seem like mere variations on a theme, but grip and entertain me for one, most delectably! As to the whether there is a 'happy ending' for Seb and Caro - well, although it seems nigh impossible considering the iron rules governing marriages in this era - however, just maybe, the innovative creative pen of Marguerite Kaye's could pull off just such a happy ending!
Lady Caroline Armstrong, the second eldest of the five Armstrong sisters finds herself attracted to the rake 'next door' when she accidentally meets him aged 16yrs, while trespassing on the grounds of his ancestral home, Crag Hall. But her father, Lord Armstrong has better plans for this, his most dutiful of daughters; and her potential to further his own political career more advantageously, than to allow her to wed Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow and the notorious rake from the adjoining estate even although Sebs father is Lord Armstrongs old friend and is extremely rich and the holder of one of England's oldest titles
Caro knows that she will dutifully be a pawn in her ruthless father's game for political supremacy and she will agree to marry a man selected for her to that end. Sebastian knowing the futility of a future relationship with Caro, despite a growing mutual attraction and after receiving warnings from Lord Armstrong and his father to keep away from Caro, forsakes his rakish behaviour and decides to travel abroad - staying away for four years. In the mean time, unbeknown to him Caro marries the selected, Lord Rider, a facsimile of her ruthless, heir seeking, ambitious father! The marriage deteriorates - an heir is not forthcoming and the frustrated Lord Rider abuses Caro physically until she reaches a state of total desperation and that is where this tale begins.
It all begins at a pivotal point in Caro's life. Sebastian, who is at a ton party and bored with the tedious goings on there, and his old dissolute habits, wanders into the 'opium' room. He had encountered rather pleasant occasional experiences with the drug on the continent. However he is appalled by the degradation of the addicted humanity that he witnesses there and turns to leave when he sees a fall of a certain copper colour of hair that he knows only too well as being that of Lady Caroline Armstrong. It IS in fact the prostrate form of Lady Caroline Armstrong lying amongst the other drug users .. and she is showing signs of having seriously overdosed on Opium and is imminently at deaths door! After Sebs last pained contact with Caroline, when he told her 'If I never see you again it will be too soon' and the gossip branding her as an adulteress, he momentarily considers leaving Caro to her tragic fate, but his heart tells him that no matter what, she does not deserve such an end and he picks her up and carries her off to where she can be purged of the drug and to finally awaken in Sebs country home, Crag Hall where he takes her to recuperate and heal.
A new Caroline is born as a result of her brush with death. She realises that her whole life has been an apology and she determines to now live life on her own terms. The relationship between Caro and Seb is initially strained as he was hurt by her when she turns to him one night, after his return to England when they meet by chance at the theatre, for comfort and 'oblivion' in her beloved Seb's arms and bed. He is furious to learn that he has just made love to her as a married woman and she has failed to inform him of this important fact, only revealing same when he seeks to continue seeing her.
Later, of course, Seb learns the truth from Caro that all the rumours are just lies put out there by a rejected husband. Seb had himself witnessed bruises and a crooked finger on Caro's hand the night they had made love after the theatre. He questioned her about the bruises but not wanting his sympathy, she makes excuses and does not reveal that she is in an abusive marriage.
The old attraction begins to come alive again between Seb and Caro and there are happy, teasing and fun-filled times between them at Crag Hall during Caro's convalescence. The happiness and lightness between them brings in a welcome relief from the general atmosphere of hopelessness that dominates because of the plight of womenkind in society in that era where unhappily married women had little hope of gaining a divorce and were seen as the property of their husbands who could virtually deal with them as harshly as they wished and not be penalised or ostracised. Seb,had been living at Crag Hall as a recluse, beleagured by a haunting, pained past with his now deceased father. With Caro's promptings Seb begins to heal emotionally too.
If it becomes known that Caro is temporarily dwelling with Seb - it would mean that she would become even more of an outcast. Even in the face of their burgeoning love and passion for each other there seems no way out for them, but to permanently part so as not to further ruin the chances of the other by their remaining together at the risk of the anticipated societal condemnation and shame.
I felt the psychological 'darkness' of the times and it highlighted how things have changed these days which are not so far removed. I felt so deeply for the thwarted love between Sebastian and Caro - nowadays people who fall in love can be together so naturally unless, they too, fall under their particular cultures restrictive dictates.
There is so much more I could say about this absorbing book. I do not want to give too much away, however, I am resolved to seek out Marguerite Kaye books on Amazon, in libraries and bookstores or wherever I can find them. Seb and Caro remained with me long after I had read the last page of the book. Marguerite is not only a novelist that dreams up wonderful, creative, new and even 'risque' situations for her leading characters, but she also invites the reader to reflect on different challenging issues highlighted in her different novels. She is a teacher of sorts as well as a wonderful fresh voice in the world of historical romance and her novels do not seem like mere variations on a theme, but grip and entertain me for one, most delectably! As to the whether there is a 'happy ending' for Seb and Caro - well, although it seems nigh impossible considering the iron rules governing marriages in this era - however, just maybe, the innovative creative pen of Marguerite Kaye's could pull off just such a happy ending!
May 30, 2023
I know I'm being prude, but I found the "heroine's" behavior appalling. You can't pretend something doesn't exist because you wish it didn't. That's how society is then and is to a degree now. No matter how awful your spouse is, it will look bad to be having an affair while still married. It doesn't mean it's right but come on, this took place in 1830! Worst book in the series by far.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2019
Not even sure that I want to admit to reading this, but oh well.
May 26, 2022
Another disappointment 🥀
July 29, 2022
Its super amazing and has many plot twists it would have been better if we took a look into more of Sebastians child hood but still an amazing read
November 4, 2016
Review originally posted on The Book Pushers here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/11/13/...
Publisher: Harlequin
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the publisher via Netgalley
London, 1830
SPOTTED: LONDON’S FAVORITE FALLEN HEIRESS, TAKING UP WITH THE ROGUE MARQUIS!
Amongst the gossip-hungry ton, no name has become more synonymous with sin than that of Lady Caroline Rider, cast out by her husband and disowned by her family. Rumor has it that the infamous “Caro” is now seeking oblivion in the opium dens of London!
There’s only one man who can save her—notorious rake Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow. Soon Caro is installed in his country home, warming his bed, but their passion may not be enough to protect them once news of their scandalous arrangement breaks out….
This blurb came from the author’s website.
It has been a while since I have read a historical by Kaye so when I found this up for review I decided to give it a try. I typically read the Author’s Note, Letter from the Editor, and the dedication that the author or editor includes because it seems to get me in the mood for the story. I found the Author’s Note for this one to be very interesting and focused my attention looking for some of the things Kaye mentioned. I also learned this was part of a series, which I missed when I selected it. I have to admit that I have very mixed feelings about this story because on one hand, the heroine did things I really don’t agree with but on the other hand Kaye was able to make me believe in Caro and her situation.
The story started off with a rather dramatic scene and then proceeded to alternate between significant events in the past that led to the opening scene and events that occurred after that opening scene. I found the flashbacks were very distinct so it was easy to tell the difference between past and present. The scenes in the past were just that, scenes, but they allowed me to get a feeling for who Caro was and a sense of how she ended up in her current position. Let me just say that I am very glad I am not bound by the same particular rules of society that Caro and Sebastian faced. Towards the end of the book I was very glad to see some of the same joy of life return to Caro that she had during a few of the earlier flashbacks.
Sebastian wasn’t without his own issues. He spent most of his life as a disappointment to his father. Not on purpose at first but after a while he started to live up or down to expectations. This reached the point so that even when he was on “his best behavior,” it was only so he could lull the suspicious and then proceed to flaunt society’s rules. As the story starts, he has replaced his dead father as the Marquise of Ardhallow and due to their enmity, the only things he focused on were things his father didn’t seem to value. Yet, unlike any other society man, he rescued Caro, encouraged her to find her strength, and even tried to help her mend some of her fences.
I have to include some spoilers for this book to explain my mixed reaction.
SPOILER
Caro was married to someone other than Sebastian for the entire book. She had separated from her husband, was disowned and kicked out by her father because her husband spread the rumor that she was cheating on him. Caro left because she was finally fed up with her husband’s constant mental, verbal, and physical abuse. She was innocent of sleeping with the particular man her husband said she did but she had slept with someone else during their marriage.
END SPOILER
I enjoyed watching Caro and Sebastian come to the realization that they were in love. I also liked watching them decide to face and then deal with the issues of their past. I could also understand a certain choice that was made towards the end of the story given their circumstances and the lesson that Sebastian learns. However, what they did during the middle of the story I had some issues with. Their actions pushed one of my DNF buttons. Having said that, Kaye managed to do such a great job setting up the characters that I was fully invested in my hopes for happiness that I didn’t stop reading. I guess this goes to show that I should stop saying I will never read x, y, or z because sometimes a book comes along that proves me wrong.
As I said in the beginning, this book left me with mixed feelings. I really enjoyed certain aspects and yet I had a hard time accepting other aspects. Caro and Sebastian were likeable, if flawed, characters. It was interesting to see how the pressures of society contributed to those flaws and actions that neither character would normally have taken. I was particularly glad to see that Kaye made the exposure of those flaws cost something but I also felt bad for the suffering that her characters experienced. As Kaye discussed in her Author’s Note, this story had a much darker tone than the others I have read by her.
I give Rumors that Ruined a Lady a B-
Publisher: Harlequin
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the publisher via Netgalley
London, 1830
SPOTTED: LONDON’S FAVORITE FALLEN HEIRESS, TAKING UP WITH THE ROGUE MARQUIS!
Amongst the gossip-hungry ton, no name has become more synonymous with sin than that of Lady Caroline Rider, cast out by her husband and disowned by her family. Rumor has it that the infamous “Caro” is now seeking oblivion in the opium dens of London!
There’s only one man who can save her—notorious rake Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow. Soon Caro is installed in his country home, warming his bed, but their passion may not be enough to protect them once news of their scandalous arrangement breaks out….
This blurb came from the author’s website.
It has been a while since I have read a historical by Kaye so when I found this up for review I decided to give it a try. I typically read the Author’s Note, Letter from the Editor, and the dedication that the author or editor includes because it seems to get me in the mood for the story. I found the Author’s Note for this one to be very interesting and focused my attention looking for some of the things Kaye mentioned. I also learned this was part of a series, which I missed when I selected it. I have to admit that I have very mixed feelings about this story because on one hand, the heroine did things I really don’t agree with but on the other hand Kaye was able to make me believe in Caro and her situation.
The story started off with a rather dramatic scene and then proceeded to alternate between significant events in the past that led to the opening scene and events that occurred after that opening scene. I found the flashbacks were very distinct so it was easy to tell the difference between past and present. The scenes in the past were just that, scenes, but they allowed me to get a feeling for who Caro was and a sense of how she ended up in her current position. Let me just say that I am very glad I am not bound by the same particular rules of society that Caro and Sebastian faced. Towards the end of the book I was very glad to see some of the same joy of life return to Caro that she had during a few of the earlier flashbacks.
Sebastian wasn’t without his own issues. He spent most of his life as a disappointment to his father. Not on purpose at first but after a while he started to live up or down to expectations. This reached the point so that even when he was on “his best behavior,” it was only so he could lull the suspicious and then proceed to flaunt society’s rules. As the story starts, he has replaced his dead father as the Marquise of Ardhallow and due to their enmity, the only things he focused on were things his father didn’t seem to value. Yet, unlike any other society man, he rescued Caro, encouraged her to find her strength, and even tried to help her mend some of her fences.
I have to include some spoilers for this book to explain my mixed reaction.
SPOILER
Caro was married to someone other than Sebastian for the entire book. She had separated from her husband, was disowned and kicked out by her father because her husband spread the rumor that she was cheating on him. Caro left because she was finally fed up with her husband’s constant mental, verbal, and physical abuse. She was innocent of sleeping with the particular man her husband said she did but she had slept with someone else during their marriage.
END SPOILER
I enjoyed watching Caro and Sebastian come to the realization that they were in love. I also liked watching them decide to face and then deal with the issues of their past. I could also understand a certain choice that was made towards the end of the story given their circumstances and the lesson that Sebastian learns. However, what they did during the middle of the story I had some issues with. Their actions pushed one of my DNF buttons. Having said that, Kaye managed to do such a great job setting up the characters that I was fully invested in my hopes for happiness that I didn’t stop reading. I guess this goes to show that I should stop saying I will never read x, y, or z because sometimes a book comes along that proves me wrong.
As I said in the beginning, this book left me with mixed feelings. I really enjoyed certain aspects and yet I had a hard time accepting other aspects. Caro and Sebastian were likeable, if flawed, characters. It was interesting to see how the pressures of society contributed to those flaws and actions that neither character would normally have taken. I was particularly glad to see that Kaye made the exposure of those flaws cost something but I also felt bad for the suffering that her characters experienced. As Kaye discussed in her Author’s Note, this story had a much darker tone than the others I have read by her.
I give Rumors that Ruined a Lady a B-
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2021
I'm having trouble writing a review because I loved this book so much. It's my first by Marguerite Kaye, and I will definitely be reading more of her in the future. The premise is very unusual for a romance novel, especially a historical romance, and until the end I was still doubtful about a happy ending even though of course this being romance I knew there would be one. Kaye manages to pull off a historically accurate HEA that acknowledges all the drawbacks of Caro and Sebastian's situation without being too bittersweet. Just a beautiful story.
November 11, 2013
Anyone who reads my reviews will know that I love reading books by Marguerite Kaye. Anyone who reads Marguerite Kaye, will know why! You can imagine my delight when I heard that there was another book featuring the fascinating Armstrong Sisters and I wasn’t disappointed. In fact, before I’d reached page 15, I was so completely hooked that it never occurred to me to put the book down or draw out the enjoyment of it.
It takes a talented writer to be able to move back and forth through time the way Marguerite has in this book. Often, it is a confusing and pointless exercise that brings nothing to the telling of the tale. Here, however, she has used it to great effect as a way of showing us things that cannot be told. It enhances the experience and lends a very cinematic air to the tale. Cleverly, we join the story, not at the beginning as we so often do – with the meeting and the falling in love - but rather at a point where so much has already happened to our characters.
From the opening paragraph, we think we know exactly who this Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow will be. He’s a bored playboy, entitled gentry who has seen it all, done it all and is now bored by it all. Right? Even as we follow him round the high society party, watching the ton at play, dismissing the dancing and disinterested in the gambling, there is a chance we could be right. Then we follow him into a dimly lit salon, heavy with the scent of opium and I find myself waiting, holding my breath, to see what happens next.
His visceral reaction to one addict, a young woman on the verge of death, surprised me. His tenderness towards her in the face of his obvious dislike and anger, his compassion, told me that my instinct that there was more to this man had been right.
Of course, we already have a surface opinion of the young woman, based solely on her unfortunate circumstances. However, knowing that she is Lady Caroline Rider, daughter of the imminently proper Lord Armstrong, I’m as shocked as Sebastian to see her in this state. Knowing that Lord Armstrong is pig-headed doesn’t really ease my sense of righteous indignation that he should have allowed one of his children to be ostracised by society.
But from the first interaction that they have, I’m even more deeply hooked, fully invested in their story. Perhaps it is because it is imperfect, flawed, that I feel more able to connect with it? It is now that the true genius of Marguerite’s writing comes to the fore. She has carefully woven the intricate strands of historical fact with the imagined detail of our two lead characters.
Skillfully, she leads us through the minefield that is the ton, the law of ownership that represented marriage in the 1800’s and the very few resources that were available to a woman who was trapped in a loveless or dangerous union. The strength of character exhibited by both Caroline and Sebastian and the journey that we take with them is captivating.
Marguerite has clearly put in a lot of effort when researching her work and it has paid off handsomely. This book is another triumph and if you’re a fan of historical fiction, or even just a well written love story, this book is a must for you.
It takes a talented writer to be able to move back and forth through time the way Marguerite has in this book. Often, it is a confusing and pointless exercise that brings nothing to the telling of the tale. Here, however, she has used it to great effect as a way of showing us things that cannot be told. It enhances the experience and lends a very cinematic air to the tale. Cleverly, we join the story, not at the beginning as we so often do – with the meeting and the falling in love - but rather at a point where so much has already happened to our characters.
From the opening paragraph, we think we know exactly who this Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow will be. He’s a bored playboy, entitled gentry who has seen it all, done it all and is now bored by it all. Right? Even as we follow him round the high society party, watching the ton at play, dismissing the dancing and disinterested in the gambling, there is a chance we could be right. Then we follow him into a dimly lit salon, heavy with the scent of opium and I find myself waiting, holding my breath, to see what happens next.
His visceral reaction to one addict, a young woman on the verge of death, surprised me. His tenderness towards her in the face of his obvious dislike and anger, his compassion, told me that my instinct that there was more to this man had been right.
Of course, we already have a surface opinion of the young woman, based solely on her unfortunate circumstances. However, knowing that she is Lady Caroline Rider, daughter of the imminently proper Lord Armstrong, I’m as shocked as Sebastian to see her in this state. Knowing that Lord Armstrong is pig-headed doesn’t really ease my sense of righteous indignation that he should have allowed one of his children to be ostracised by society.
But from the first interaction that they have, I’m even more deeply hooked, fully invested in their story. Perhaps it is because it is imperfect, flawed, that I feel more able to connect with it? It is now that the true genius of Marguerite’s writing comes to the fore. She has carefully woven the intricate strands of historical fact with the imagined detail of our two lead characters.
Skillfully, she leads us through the minefield that is the ton, the law of ownership that represented marriage in the 1800’s and the very few resources that were available to a woman who was trapped in a loveless or dangerous union. The strength of character exhibited by both Caroline and Sebastian and the journey that we take with them is captivating.
Marguerite has clearly put in a lot of effort when researching her work and it has paid off handsomely. This book is another triumph and if you’re a fan of historical fiction, or even just a well written love story, this book is a must for you.
October 8, 2014
*I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Rumors that Ruined a Lady is the fourth book in a series but, even though I haven't read the previous ones, I didn't feel like it was necessary since the story is independent, even though there is some degree of continuity. Each book is focused on one of the five Armstrong sisters and, this time, is Caroline's (Caro) story.
Caroline is the obedient daughter, the one that always tried to obey her father, and the only one who married the man her father chose to be her husband, but her reward was a lifetime of unhappiness and suffering. Because, unlike her sisters, who chose their own paths, Caro tried all her life to fulfill her father's will and, at the time she needed his support the most, he abandoned her on her own luck.
And that is how Sebastian comes to encounter her completely blacked out after taking opium at a party and he ends up taking her with him to his family property, where he provides her with a place to recuperate and try to reorganize her life. The version that circulates in londoner society is that her husband has expelled her from home because she cheated on him, but that is not exactly the truth and her father refuses to even hear her side of the story and is imperative that she will only be welcomed back in the family when she returns to her husband.
Caro and Sebastian have history, they've known each other since they were teenagers (since their fathers have neighbouring properties) and they have in common the fact that they are both maternal orphans and have controlling fathers, but the love they felt for each other then wasn't strong enough to overcome Caro's obedience and Sebastian's problems.
But now it seems destiny is giving them a new chance for happiness if they both allow themselves to take it... And if Sebastian is instrumental in resolving Caro's situation (including giving her the strength she needs to finally rebel against her father), it's Caro that finally breaks down the walls that Sebastian has built around him and gives him the closure he needs, namely reconciling him with his father's memory.
I liked the story and the protagonists, both with a heavy past, which made this romance more melancholic than I'm used to. I liked that the author mentioned what happened with the other sisters, an important context for someone who, like me, hasn't read the previous books. But I'll admit it troubled me that Caro didn't turn to any of them, since it was mentioned that they were very close (Caro does explain why she doesn't do it, but it still troubled me). I ended up liking Sebastian's story more, because he had no one to turn to and things could not have been any different...
To finish, I'd like the author to write Caro's half-sister's story because I would love to see Sebastian's christening desire to her fulfilled...
Rumors that Ruined a Lady is the fourth book in a series but, even though I haven't read the previous ones, I didn't feel like it was necessary since the story is independent, even though there is some degree of continuity. Each book is focused on one of the five Armstrong sisters and, this time, is Caroline's (Caro) story.
Caroline is the obedient daughter, the one that always tried to obey her father, and the only one who married the man her father chose to be her husband, but her reward was a lifetime of unhappiness and suffering. Because, unlike her sisters, who chose their own paths, Caro tried all her life to fulfill her father's will and, at the time she needed his support the most, he abandoned her on her own luck.
And that is how Sebastian comes to encounter her completely blacked out after taking opium at a party and he ends up taking her with him to his family property, where he provides her with a place to recuperate and try to reorganize her life. The version that circulates in londoner society is that her husband has expelled her from home because she cheated on him, but that is not exactly the truth and her father refuses to even hear her side of the story and is imperative that she will only be welcomed back in the family when she returns to her husband.
Caro and Sebastian have history, they've known each other since they were teenagers (since their fathers have neighbouring properties) and they have in common the fact that they are both maternal orphans and have controlling fathers, but the love they felt for each other then wasn't strong enough to overcome Caro's obedience and Sebastian's problems.
But now it seems destiny is giving them a new chance for happiness if they both allow themselves to take it... And if Sebastian is instrumental in resolving Caro's situation (including giving her the strength she needs to finally rebel against her father), it's Caro that finally breaks down the walls that Sebastian has built around him and gives him the closure he needs, namely reconciling him with his father's memory.
I liked the story and the protagonists, both with a heavy past, which made this romance more melancholic than I'm used to. I liked that the author mentioned what happened with the other sisters, an important context for someone who, like me, hasn't read the previous books. But I'll admit it troubled me that Caro didn't turn to any of them, since it was mentioned that they were very close (Caro does explain why she doesn't do it, but it still troubled me). I ended up liking Sebastian's story more, because he had no one to turn to and things could not have been any different...
To finish, I'd like the author to write Caro's half-sister's story because I would love to see Sebastian's christening desire to her fulfilled...
June 19, 2021
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review. I was very surprised and honoured to find that I am also thanked in the book! Very, very exciting. You'll have to read it to find out why, ha.
But there are many more reasons why I love this book and they follow here...
The first is that it is another sequel, so another sister in the Armstrong sisters family though you don't need to read the others to read this book. You might find it does add to your enjoyment. There is one more sister to go now, Cordelia, for those that are following.
Next, and most importantly, is this is totally not your average Regency romance novel. It is for a start much, much darker. It is a tale of a marriage gone very wrong, a thwarted love affair - and is in a sense told backwards through some flashbacks throughout. I got used to those, but I must say didn't enjoy them as much which is what contributed to my final grading of the story as a whole of 4 1/2 stars and very nearly a 5.
The hero and heroine in the story are Caroline Armstrong, but when we meet her Lady Caroline Rider, and Sebastian the Marquis of Ardhallow. Through the flashbacks we get to know them both and their love affair that develops when they are much younger. Of course, at that time it is doomed to fail, and when we catch up with them both Caroline has left her husband and is living a very scandalous life. Sebastian is attempting to destroy his own life by becoming known as a womaniser and gambler and refusing to settle or associate with his father.
A muddle all round really so how will this end well you might ask? Well that's a very long story and a very good reason to read this one. Not only does it deal with scandal, but within it the natural complexities of falling in love (again) and deciding what best to do with your life if you can't have who you want. Caroline cannot be divorced, and Sebastian must marry to continue his family line. The bleak scenes at Sebastian's family home really get this point home to you with his own mother's experiences. But the resulting healing brings with it a chance for the future. When Sebastian confronts his past and Caroline finally deals with her husband a solution presents itself.
The only small things I didn't like were the many flashbacks and how the huge problem keeping the hero and heroine apart was only dealt with via a letter in the epilogue I felt this deserved more. Having said that, this is a very, very good book.
Do I sense further thawing in Bella the girls' stepmother? And will Lord Armstrong finally be brought down a few pegs? Come on Cordelia, don't disappoint me!
But there are many more reasons why I love this book and they follow here...
The first is that it is another sequel, so another sister in the Armstrong sisters family though you don't need to read the others to read this book. You might find it does add to your enjoyment. There is one more sister to go now, Cordelia, for those that are following.
Next, and most importantly, is this is totally not your average Regency romance novel. It is for a start much, much darker. It is a tale of a marriage gone very wrong, a thwarted love affair - and is in a sense told backwards through some flashbacks throughout. I got used to those, but I must say didn't enjoy them as much which is what contributed to my final grading of the story as a whole of 4 1/2 stars and very nearly a 5.
The hero and heroine in the story are Caroline Armstrong, but when we meet her Lady Caroline Rider, and Sebastian the Marquis of Ardhallow. Through the flashbacks we get to know them both and their love affair that develops when they are much younger. Of course, at that time it is doomed to fail, and when we catch up with them both Caroline has left her husband and is living a very scandalous life. Sebastian is attempting to destroy his own life by becoming known as a womaniser and gambler and refusing to settle or associate with his father.
A muddle all round really so how will this end well you might ask? Well that's a very long story and a very good reason to read this one. Not only does it deal with scandal, but within it the natural complexities of falling in love (again) and deciding what best to do with your life if you can't have who you want. Caroline cannot be divorced, and Sebastian must marry to continue his family line. The bleak scenes at Sebastian's family home really get this point home to you with his own mother's experiences. But the resulting healing brings with it a chance for the future. When Sebastian confronts his past and Caroline finally deals with her husband a solution presents itself.
The only small things I didn't like were the many flashbacks and how the huge problem keeping the hero and heroine apart was only dealt with via a letter in the epilogue I felt this deserved more. Having said that, this is a very, very good book.
Do I sense further thawing in Bella the girls' stepmother? And will Lord Armstrong finally be brought down a few pegs? Come on Cordelia, don't disappoint me!
November 27, 2013
I confess I haven't read the other books in the Armstrong series and there is a lot of references to the other sisters and their escapades. But that being said I don't think reading this one detracts from the story.
There are three major flashbacks in the story. Each one describing a major meeting of Sebastian and Caro during their 10 year acquaintance.
There were a few things I really enjoyed. I loved that there was a seance scene. It was very atmospheric and you get a sense of what a seance might of been like. Also, there were lush descriptions of her dresses. For some reason I really like the cover of the book (which is very surprising since 99.9% of covers are bad). But I really like the colors and the fact that everything is candle lit. (I've been thinking a lot about my visit to the Dennis Severs house during my last visit to London. I went at night when it's Silent Night and everything is illuminated by candle and fireplaces. So it's very atmospheric with the crackling fireplaces and the smells of oranges and other treats around the house.)
This story is a case of rake who finds honor and bullied into giving up his love for fear of ruined reputations. When Sebastian says that they can't be together and gives Caro up she moves on. It hurts her to do so, but she needs to marry and move with her life. In any other story, the heroine would of saved herself until she was reunited with the hero. So when Sebastian gets angry at her deceiving him by not revealing she's married, she justified by telling him she had to move on. He was cowardly by not following his heart and not fighting for her.
We get glimpses of Caro's married life, but not a whole lot more. Obviously the husband is the villain and he has to be painted in the blackest light but I thought a little more on the marriage would of been good. How did Caro enter the marriage? Was she naively in love with him and then things turned against her?
The author didn't take the easy way out and kill the husband (though if Sebastian would of murdered him that would of been a crazy turn of events) by natural or ill causes. The author's note spells out the strict marriage and divorce laws which was very much reflected in this book. There's no easy way out and by 90% I thought how are they going to achieve their HEA?
There are three major flashbacks in the story. Each one describing a major meeting of Sebastian and Caro during their 10 year acquaintance.
There were a few things I really enjoyed. I loved that there was a seance scene. It was very atmospheric and you get a sense of what a seance might of been like. Also, there were lush descriptions of her dresses. For some reason I really like the cover of the book (which is very surprising since 99.9% of covers are bad). But I really like the colors and the fact that everything is candle lit. (I've been thinking a lot about my visit to the Dennis Severs house during my last visit to London. I went at night when it's Silent Night and everything is illuminated by candle and fireplaces. So it's very atmospheric with the crackling fireplaces and the smells of oranges and other treats around the house.)
This story is a case of rake who finds honor and bullied into giving up his love for fear of ruined reputations. When Sebastian says that they can't be together and gives Caro up she moves on. It hurts her to do so, but she needs to marry and move with her life. In any other story, the heroine would of saved herself until she was reunited with the hero. So when Sebastian gets angry at her deceiving him by not revealing she's married, she justified by telling him she had to move on. He was cowardly by not following his heart and not fighting for her.
We get glimpses of Caro's married life, but not a whole lot more. Obviously the husband is the villain and he has to be painted in the blackest light but I thought a little more on the marriage would of been good. How did Caro enter the marriage? Was she naively in love with him and then things turned against her?
The author didn't take the easy way out and kill the husband (though if Sebastian would of murdered him that would of been a crazy turn of events) by natural or ill causes. The author's note spells out the strict marriage and divorce laws which was very much reflected in this book. There's no easy way out and by 90% I thought how are they going to achieve their HEA?
November 14, 2013
Rumours that Ruined a Lady is about Caroline (Caro) and Sebastian. Both characters have been trying to obtain their fathers' love and approval and no matter how hard, they were unable to obtain it. Caroline ended up marrying an abusive husband and being unhappy. Sebastian ended up trying being a rakish rogue whose parents would think twice for their daughters to marry him.
This is also an story that has complication between the Caroline and Sebastian's relationship with each other. It took Sebastian forever to realize that he was in love with Caroline but he was too late. Caroline is married.
This is a rather unusual romance story but it does strayed from the norm and has shown how complicated a marriage to the wrong person is enough though society is considered that it is a good match. Rumours that Ruined a Lady is a story when the hero and heroine have made mistakes in their relationship and have become star-crossed lovers instead.
Caro has to face the biggest mistake of her life that is marrying the wrong man that her father chose for her. Her situation reflects the decision of what a woman have during this era. She can remain with her husband and put up with his abuse, remain separated at a high cost or be ostracized by society if she does not returned to her husband. A divorce is possible but very difficult to obtain without connection.
Readers will find that this is not a situation where the hero and heroine could fixed. It is a situation where political connection are needed to obtain their HEA ending. I do find this book quite educational and it does address the the options left when trap in a loveless marriage that no authors has told.
The author could have killed off the husband in the story to make it simple but I'm glad that she didn't and have given us readers an education of marriage gone wrong in this time period.
This is also an story that has complication between the Caroline and Sebastian's relationship with each other. It took Sebastian forever to realize that he was in love with Caroline but he was too late. Caroline is married.
This is a rather unusual romance story but it does strayed from the norm and has shown how complicated a marriage to the wrong person is enough though society is considered that it is a good match. Rumours that Ruined a Lady is a story when the hero and heroine have made mistakes in their relationship and have become star-crossed lovers instead.
Caro has to face the biggest mistake of her life that is marrying the wrong man that her father chose for her. Her situation reflects the decision of what a woman have during this era. She can remain with her husband and put up with his abuse, remain separated at a high cost or be ostracized by society if she does not returned to her husband. A divorce is possible but very difficult to obtain without connection.
Readers will find that this is not a situation where the hero and heroine could fixed. It is a situation where political connection are needed to obtain their HEA ending. I do find this book quite educational and it does address the the options left when trap in a loveless marriage that no authors has told.
The author could have killed off the husband in the story to make it simple but I'm glad that she didn't and have given us readers an education of marriage gone wrong in this time period.
August 12, 2016
I don’t know about you, but I just adore reading historical romances based around the London Society of the “Ton”. For me it is a completely enjoyable time in history to read about and although some of the stories might get predictable they are always fun.
In this story we meet the disgraced Caroline that has been disowned by all those that should be there for her. Once she is tossed out it is no surprise that the London “rags” are a buzz about anything having to do with her and her scandalous life.
While the papers are assured that Caroline has taken up with a new terrible lifestyle in the opium rooms of London, she seeks peace and finds that with the devastatingly handsome rake Sebastian. Unknown to most, Sebastian and Caroline knew each other from before she was married and although they saw a future of love and happiness together their father’s did not which led to Caroline being married to a man that was very content to treat her improperly and contribute to her outcast.
Together they get lost in their passions at his home, but even though she was happy to gain peace with Sebastian, they both know that everything will eventually come out and when it does it will spread like wildfire through society of their past and their current arrangement. Things seem so bleak for them as they recount times from long ago and you can almost feel their regret of the year that will not be spent together.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I was not disappointed! The characters were so fully developed and the plot and story line were accurate and detailed which made for an enjoyable one sitting read. I couldn't put this book down and will be looking for more books by this author.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review which has been stated above.
In this story we meet the disgraced Caroline that has been disowned by all those that should be there for her. Once she is tossed out it is no surprise that the London “rags” are a buzz about anything having to do with her and her scandalous life.
While the papers are assured that Caroline has taken up with a new terrible lifestyle in the opium rooms of London, she seeks peace and finds that with the devastatingly handsome rake Sebastian. Unknown to most, Sebastian and Caroline knew each other from before she was married and although they saw a future of love and happiness together their father’s did not which led to Caroline being married to a man that was very content to treat her improperly and contribute to her outcast.
Together they get lost in their passions at his home, but even though she was happy to gain peace with Sebastian, they both know that everything will eventually come out and when it does it will spread like wildfire through society of their past and their current arrangement. Things seem so bleak for them as they recount times from long ago and you can almost feel their regret of the year that will not be spent together.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I was not disappointed! The characters were so fully developed and the plot and story line were accurate and detailed which made for an enjoyable one sitting read. I couldn't put this book down and will be looking for more books by this author.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review which has been stated above.
September 26, 2014
It shocked me to the core. I often read historical romance novels that are light, full of humor, and passion. This for me had been a shock for it depicted a different England. England in the height of scandals, with a touch of Opium, paramours, and being caught up by desire that it caused them too much to lose and so little to gain.
I liked the story because of the passion, desire, and sanctuary Caroline and Sebastian always seemed to find with each other. I liked the fact that they fought for their love, but then I hated the knowledge it gave me about the other side of England, the dark and scandalous side. I also hated how the story seemed to end in limbo. It gave me the impression that they lived with each other and loved each other, but it did not give me "happy" for a happy ending the author seemed to want to give. More importantly, maybe my dissatisfaction was due to the fact that I always wanted a happy ending in the stories I read. I always wanted something that would make me cry because of the joy it inflicted upon the characters that drew me to them and not to cry because of the struggles of life, the injustice, the horror, and because of the uncertainty of it all, the inhumanity.
In the end, I love books that take me out of my comfort zone. I love books that make me sit, take deep breaths, and just stare into space afterwards. I was not accustomed to this kind of story and that was why maybe I was not satisfied. But that does not mean it was not a beautiful story after all.
Because I can assure you that this line made me think of all the good things about people and love
"What use will society be to me, when the society I crave is you?"
Cheers and God Bless!
I liked the story because of the passion, desire, and sanctuary Caroline and Sebastian always seemed to find with each other. I liked the fact that they fought for their love, but then I hated the knowledge it gave me about the other side of England, the dark and scandalous side. I also hated how the story seemed to end in limbo. It gave me the impression that they lived with each other and loved each other, but it did not give me "happy" for a happy ending the author seemed to want to give. More importantly, maybe my dissatisfaction was due to the fact that I always wanted a happy ending in the stories I read. I always wanted something that would make me cry because of the joy it inflicted upon the characters that drew me to them and not to cry because of the struggles of life, the injustice, the horror, and because of the uncertainty of it all, the inhumanity.
In the end, I love books that take me out of my comfort zone. I love books that make me sit, take deep breaths, and just stare into space afterwards. I was not accustomed to this kind of story and that was why maybe I was not satisfied. But that does not mean it was not a beautiful story after all.
Because I can assure you that this line made me think of all the good things about people and love
"What use will society be to me, when the society I crave is you?"
Cheers and God Bless!
August 27, 2016
Rumors That Ruined a Lady is the fourth book in the Armstrong Sisters series and a fantastic story. This is not your typical historical romance. The heroine is married and no longer living with her husband, the first time the hero finds her after years of being away is in an opium den, and divorce is very rarely an option.
Caroline Rider is one of five daughters, and the only one out of them all to marry the man of her father’s choosing. No one knows what she has endured during her marriage or the real reason why she left. After being tossed out by her husband and disowned by her family, the only thing she wants to do is forget for a little while. But things do not go as planned.
When Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow finds her passed out in an opium den in London he knows he cannot leave her there even when all he really wants to do is walk away. The last time they saw one another was not a pleasant meeting and he swore he did not care if he never spoke to her again. He decides to take her to her lodgings, but things don’t go as planned and the only place left that he can take her is home with him.
As Caro recovers they spend a lot of time together and learn more about one another. They know they have no future together, but they cannot stop what is happening between them. As much as they try to fight what they are feeling, their passion burns hotly and they become closer than they ever were. She will do anything to protect Sebastian from scandal, even if it means leaving him. But can she live the rest of her life without the man she’s loved most of her life?
I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Caroline Rider is one of five daughters, and the only one out of them all to marry the man of her father’s choosing. No one knows what she has endured during her marriage or the real reason why she left. After being tossed out by her husband and disowned by her family, the only thing she wants to do is forget for a little while. But things do not go as planned.
When Sebastian Conway, Marquis of Ardhallow finds her passed out in an opium den in London he knows he cannot leave her there even when all he really wants to do is walk away. The last time they saw one another was not a pleasant meeting and he swore he did not care if he never spoke to her again. He decides to take her to her lodgings, but things don’t go as planned and the only place left that he can take her is home with him.
As Caro recovers they spend a lot of time together and learn more about one another. They know they have no future together, but they cannot stop what is happening between them. As much as they try to fight what they are feeling, their passion burns hotly and they become closer than they ever were. She will do anything to protect Sebastian from scandal, even if it means leaving him. But can she live the rest of her life without the man she’s loved most of her life?
I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2017
The 4th Armstrong book, following Caroline. We first meet her as Sebastian Conway finds her in an opium den having just overdosed and he takes her back to his home. We learn that they have a history, having become friends and having flirted briefly. But his reputation and her father's expectations of a good match get in the way, and Sebastian leaves. Caroline convinces herself it wasn't really love, since she knew he'd never offer marriage anyway and Sebastian believes she's better off without him ruining her. So she marries Sir Grahame Rider. Four years later, Sebastian returns to London and he and Caroline end up having sex, but afterwards she tells him of her marriage and he walks out again. This brings us to the present, in which Caroline has left her husband because he is abusive and all kinds of scandal and shame are being heaped upon her.
In one respect, particularly as a commentary on the actual options available to abused women in this time period, this was an excellent story. The reader really feels the hopelessness of Caroline's situation - either she returns to her abusive husband or she lives in exile, shunned by her family, but with the possible hope of one day being accepted back into society. But she could never live with love...to do so would bring even further ruin to her. However, I wasn't a huge fan of Sebastian's story line and found his attitude toward Caroline in the beginning rather frustrating. I also still couldn't figure out why he was so upset after they'd had sex - surely she wasn't the first married woman he'd slept with. Still, this was a good book, just a bit darker than I'm used to reading in a Harlequin Historical.
In one respect, particularly as a commentary on the actual options available to abused women in this time period, this was an excellent story. The reader really feels the hopelessness of Caroline's situation - either she returns to her abusive husband or she lives in exile, shunned by her family, but with the possible hope of one day being accepted back into society. But she could never live with love...to do so would bring even further ruin to her. However, I wasn't a huge fan of Sebastian's story line and found his attitude toward Caroline in the beginning rather frustrating. I also still couldn't figure out why he was so upset after they'd had sex - surely she wasn't the first married woman he'd slept with. Still, this was a good book, just a bit darker than I'm used to reading in a Harlequin Historical.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2014
Sebastian Conway, the Earl of Mosteyn, had never has a real relationship with his father. He is attractive, built like an athlete and have a devil may care attitude. He has done is best to live up (down) to the title of Rake. Abandoned by his mother at a tender age he chooses to keep his relationships with women at a purely business level- No emotions involved.
Lady Caroline (Armstrong) Rider is the dutiful daughter, between her and her four sisters. She wants desperately to be shown love and attention from her father. Like Sebastian, she lost her mother at five years old and her older sisters left the house once they found their happiness. Caro may look fragile, but she is made of very stern stuff and has a great talent with horses.
Sebastian and Caro met when she was 16 and feeling rebellious. They strike up a unique friendship. She makes him laugh and keeps him on his toes. Through the bitter and arrogant and ambitions of their father’s they are torn apart. When they meet up again life has gotten in the way- death, indifference, bad marriage and disappointments have changed them both. Caro most of all, she has lost her sparkle and Sebastian steps in to help her find it. Their love is enhanced by their deep enduring friendship and shared feelings of never being enough. The protectiveness and desire to save each other from social ruin is enchanting. I am anxious for more from Ms. Kaye.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Lady Caroline (Armstrong) Rider is the dutiful daughter, between her and her four sisters. She wants desperately to be shown love and attention from her father. Like Sebastian, she lost her mother at five years old and her older sisters left the house once they found their happiness. Caro may look fragile, but she is made of very stern stuff and has a great talent with horses.
Sebastian and Caro met when she was 16 and feeling rebellious. They strike up a unique friendship. She makes him laugh and keeps him on his toes. Through the bitter and arrogant and ambitions of their father’s they are torn apart. When they meet up again life has gotten in the way- death, indifference, bad marriage and disappointments have changed them both. Caro most of all, she has lost her sparkle and Sebastian steps in to help her find it. Their love is enhanced by their deep enduring friendship and shared feelings of never being enough. The protectiveness and desire to save each other from social ruin is enchanting. I am anxious for more from Ms. Kaye.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 25, 2014
First off, you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, right? So literally speaking, I have to admit that I was both curious and intrigued by the book description yet sceptical and doubting about the book cover. I can't even put into words what makes me shy away from the book cover but it makes me scale down my expectations to a pleasurable read without much depth. BUT way off the mark!
Rumours that Ruined a Lady is not only a pleasurable read but both the storyline and characters are complex and lack no depth at all. Both Caro and Sebastian are likable, yet torn protagonists. It is a joy to watch them discover that they are meant for each other, struggle against their feelings and the odds. The development in their personal relationship is realistic yet with twists and turns in the story you're always eager to learn more about their past. Their sexual encounters don't cheapen the book as they are described in a tasteful way.
Caro and Sebastian, an unlike couple that is not that unlike at all. Despite their disparity on the surface, they are more alike than it seems. Not only the storyline but their personal growth within the novel makes this book stand out.
Whether you are a novice or an old hand of this genre, you should most definitely give Rumours that Ruined a Lady a try! *thumbs up*
*I was provided with a copy of Rumours that Ruined a Lady by Marguerite Kaye for an honest review.*
Rumours that Ruined a Lady is not only a pleasurable read but both the storyline and characters are complex and lack no depth at all. Both Caro and Sebastian are likable, yet torn protagonists. It is a joy to watch them discover that they are meant for each other, struggle against their feelings and the odds. The development in their personal relationship is realistic yet with twists and turns in the story you're always eager to learn more about their past. Their sexual encounters don't cheapen the book as they are described in a tasteful way.
Caro and Sebastian, an unlike couple that is not that unlike at all. Despite their disparity on the surface, they are more alike than it seems. Not only the storyline but their personal growth within the novel makes this book stand out.
Whether you are a novice or an old hand of this genre, you should most definitely give Rumours that Ruined a Lady a try! *thumbs up*
*I was provided with a copy of Rumours that Ruined a Lady by Marguerite Kaye for an honest review.*
January 30, 2014
Reputation, at one point in human history, was all important, especially if one expected to keep some semblance of acceptance in polite society. In today's world it is still important but we tend to view it as not all that critical. That is not to say that we yearn for a bad reputation, but in the time of this novel it was EVERYTHING. Yet as in all romance fiction, especially good fiction, the crisis is all important as it sets the stage for what will come and how the plot will proceed and how the characters will resolve the issues or extract themselves from difficulty. This novel is set in a time when the heroine is a victim of a husband and family who really care nothing for her as a person and whose reputation has been shredded by these individuals who, of all people, should have cared for her the most. Now she is looking to a recognized rake to shelter her and even though she has thrown caution to the wind, she is still a person of deep sensibilities and one whose hurts and inner wounds are profound. So this is a book about getting one's own "groove" back, of find a way to right one's life, of regaining one's own sense of respect and in the bargain, being in a relationship the world of society thinks little of but who turns out to be far more of a true friend than all those who should have "had her back." Good story content and very good writing. It was a pleasure to read.
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