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Conduct Unbecoming of a Gentleman
Recently widowed, Lady Laurel Laningham glanced around the interior of the overturned coach. With her young son in her arms, the task of climbing out of the crippled vehicle appeared overwhelmingly difficult. At that moment, a stranger offered his help and reached down for the child, but before she could struggle out after him, he immediately rode off with her son. She followed only to discover the fellow was Jamie’s new guardian. If she wanted any part in her son’s future, she must fight her sister-in-law plus her own deep attraction to Jamie’s new guardian.
Furious that the widow would abscond with his ward, Lord Adron Gladrey rescued Jamie, determined to protect him from a selfish mother able to persuade men to do her bidding and uncaring enough to expose her son to untold danger. After seeing her beauty for himself, he believed every word against her. He vowed she would soon learn he was not so easy to manipulate.
Complicating her life still further, a villainous jewel thief committed murder for a rare blue diamond she had no idea was in her possession and he would kill again. After many twist and turns, she must fight for her life. Will her son’s guardian put aside his prejudices against beautiful women in time to help her or will she follow her husband to an early grave?
Furious that the widow would abscond with his ward, Lord Adron Gladrey rescued Jamie, determined to protect him from a selfish mother able to persuade men to do her bidding and uncaring enough to expose her son to untold danger. After seeing her beauty for himself, he believed every word against her. He vowed she would soon learn he was not so easy to manipulate.
Complicating her life still further, a villainous jewel thief committed murder for a rare blue diamond she had no idea was in her possession and he would kill again. After many twist and turns, she must fight for her life. Will her son’s guardian put aside his prejudices against beautiful women in time to help her or will she follow her husband to an early grave?
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2013
189 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Wareeze Woodson
14 books160 followersI write and read historical romance along with other romance genre. I married my high-school sweetheart and raised 4 children. We have 8 grand grandchildren.
I admit all this tech stuff is a little over my head and leaves me frustrated enough to scream.
Singing with a group called the Silver Belles is one of my favorite past times. My husband and I enjoy fishing but other than that, I prefer the great indoors where the air-conditioning roams free.
I admit all this tech stuff is a little over my head and leaves me frustrated enough to scream.
Singing with a group called the Silver Belles is one of my favorite past times. My husband and I enjoy fishing but other than that, I prefer the great indoors where the air-conditioning roams free.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 10, 2017
I am so utterly pissed. What a travesty. So much cussing. I am sorry.
I really hate writing such negative reviews about someone’s writing, but a warning is necessary.
The hero is a fucking asshole. The H is not even worthy of the ever loving Dean Winchesters fave, Sunuvabitch, also one of my dad’s finer contributions to cussing. Big fathead H kidnaps the stupid h’s two year old son because the child is HIS WARD, and the big fathead has been led to believe the h is evil.
She follows him to his lair/castle, and he makes her the generous offer of being nanny to her own child and his bedwarmer. She accepts the nanny position, but declines on the bedwarmer position. I wish I could say she never takes him up on his offer to be his nasty little secret, but I would be lying. Back to that in a moment.
He knows she’s evil because, one, he is an idiot. Two, his evil cousin, the dead husband’s twin tells him bunch of lies which he believes because he is an idiot. Three, she’s blonde; his mother was blonde and she was worthless so the h must be bad too. Crickets…..
She does a good job nannying HER OWN SON plus four kids that belong to his sister. He’s impressed, but knows she’s biding her time to get a rich husband then she’ll leave her son, HIS WARD, behind.
HIS WARD, HIS WARD, HIS WARD. If he says it once, he says it a million times.
In the meanwhile, despite his grandmother’s goddaughter Melissa staying there as a prospective fiancee, he starts bedding the stupid, stupid heroine. Ugh. No. Melissa has golden brown hair so evilness must be on a sliding scale of blonde.
There is some more bullshit manipulation by the evil twin/cousin, some missing jewelry, and more contrived bullshit the stupid, idiotic, misogynist buys into.
The H ups the ante on truly atrocious and yucky behavior by telling the h that he is going to marry Melissa so she may want to leave without her son, HIS WARD, of course. She ups her own spineless, sex-craved asinine behavior by seducing him and telling him she’ll stay, and he will have to see her across the dinner table and know he’s had the best instead of being stuck with not so blonde, not so evil Melissa. Charming.
As bad as the H has been up until this point, the crowning blow is when a charge is levied against her for stealing her OWN child as well as the jewelry her husband gave her. The dipshit Duke or whatever is stands there as the Runners take her away to Newgate, shaking his big fathead about how low she’s sunk to kidnap her own two year old, HIS WARD, and her own jewelry.
George, one of the h’s suitors and a very nice man, hears about this and wants to beat the hero up. Things were looking up for a second, but then George decided to talk some sense into Fathead instead. He suggests going to get her that night, but Fathead doesn’t want to to disturb the guards. How fucking considerate. Yes, don’t disturb the guards, but leave a defenseless woman in a prison where she could be raped, killed or get some disease.
He finally gets her and he feels bad. Poor baby. When he sees the prison’s condition, he thinks someone needs to be horsewhipped. Again…crickets…who could he choose? The self-recriminations don’t last long as he says she has only herself to blame.
More stupid stuff happens that doesn’t further the story except Fathead proves his stupidity one more time by buying his evil cousin’s story that the h is in love with George despite the fact she falls over like a nine pin whenever he visits her room to talk.
The evil woman and the other evil doers are finally caught, and in what is not actually a deathbed confession, the evil woman feels soooo bad for being mean to the heroine, lying about her and almost getting her killed.
Who knows what ever happened to Melissa the fiancee wannabe. She disappeared off the pages.
I really hate writing such negative reviews about someone’s writing, but a warning is necessary.
The hero is a fucking asshole. The H is not even worthy of the ever loving Dean Winchesters fave, Sunuvabitch, also one of my dad’s finer contributions to cussing. Big fathead H kidnaps the stupid h’s two year old son because the child is HIS WARD, and the big fathead has been led to believe the h is evil.
She follows him to his lair/castle, and he makes her the generous offer of being nanny to her own child and his bedwarmer. She accepts the nanny position, but declines on the bedwarmer position. I wish I could say she never takes him up on his offer to be his nasty little secret, but I would be lying. Back to that in a moment.
He knows she’s evil because, one, he is an idiot. Two, his evil cousin, the dead husband’s twin tells him bunch of lies which he believes because he is an idiot. Three, she’s blonde; his mother was blonde and she was worthless so the h must be bad too. Crickets…..
She does a good job nannying HER OWN SON plus four kids that belong to his sister. He’s impressed, but knows she’s biding her time to get a rich husband then she’ll leave her son, HIS WARD, behind.
HIS WARD, HIS WARD, HIS WARD. If he says it once, he says it a million times.
In the meanwhile, despite his grandmother’s goddaughter Melissa staying there as a prospective fiancee, he starts bedding the stupid, stupid heroine. Ugh. No. Melissa has golden brown hair so evilness must be on a sliding scale of blonde.
There is some more bullshit manipulation by the evil twin/cousin, some missing jewelry, and more contrived bullshit the stupid, idiotic, misogynist buys into.
The H ups the ante on truly atrocious and yucky behavior by telling the h that he is going to marry Melissa so she may want to leave without her son, HIS WARD, of course. She ups her own spineless, sex-craved asinine behavior by seducing him and telling him she’ll stay, and he will have to see her across the dinner table and know he’s had the best instead of being stuck with not so blonde, not so evil Melissa. Charming.
As bad as the H has been up until this point, the crowning blow is when a charge is levied against her for stealing her OWN child as well as the jewelry her husband gave her. The dipshit Duke or whatever is stands there as the Runners take her away to Newgate, shaking his big fathead about how low she’s sunk to kidnap her own two year old, HIS WARD, and her own jewelry.
George, one of the h’s suitors and a very nice man, hears about this and wants to beat the hero up. Things were looking up for a second, but then George decided to talk some sense into Fathead instead. He suggests going to get her that night, but Fathead doesn’t want to to disturb the guards. How fucking considerate. Yes, don’t disturb the guards, but leave a defenseless woman in a prison where she could be raped, killed or get some disease.
He finally gets her and he feels bad. Poor baby. When he sees the prison’s condition, he thinks someone needs to be horsewhipped. Again…crickets…who could he choose? The self-recriminations don’t last long as he says she has only herself to blame.
More stupid stuff happens that doesn’t further the story except Fathead proves his stupidity one more time by buying his evil cousin’s story that the h is in love with George despite the fact she falls over like a nine pin whenever he visits her room to talk.
The evil woman and the other evil doers are finally caught, and in what is not actually a deathbed confession, the evil woman feels soooo bad for being mean to the heroine, lying about her and almost getting her killed.
Who knows what ever happened to Melissa the fiancee wannabe. She disappeared off the pages.
September 23, 2013
Conduct Unbecoming a Gentleman by Wareeze Woodson is a Soul Mate Publishing release. This is a 2013 copyright.
I receive a copy to this book from Long Ago Love and Vicki Hopkins in exchange for an honest review.
Laurel's husband left her in a bind when he died. His sister, Rhonda, was remembered in his will, and their son was to be his cousin Lord Adron's ward. So, when Laurel attempts an escape, she is chased down and her son stolen from her by Adron's men.
Once she locates Lord Andron's estate, he sees she is determined to stay with her son. So, he offers her a deal. She can become an unpaid member of the staff and be a nanny to her son and other children that are currently on estate. Having no choice by law, Laurel takes what she can get in order to be with her son.
Lord Adron believes the worst of Laurel. He was led to believe she brought his cousin to the ultimate despair that caused him to take drastic measures.
But, Laurel surprises Lord Adron by being a caring, hands on mother and having a wonderful way with children. No matter what he throws at her, she is able to withstand it. But, he can not withstand his attraction to her.
In the middle of this drama, there are some valuable jewels that Laurel's husband, Robert had hidden somewhere. Rhonda and her cohorts are desperate to find the jewels. In the process, Rhonda continues the plot against Laurel, insinuating that Laurel may be a jewel thief. She is even more determined to get rid of Laurel with she notices the attraction Lord Adron has for Laurel. Rhonda has set her heart on marrying Lord Adron herself.
With each passing day, Laurel and Lord Andron fall deeper in love with each other. But, there are issues with women that Lord Andron will have to overcome before he can win Laurel over. But, first the jewel thief must be caught and the jewels found.
This was a really entertaining Regency period historical romance.
Lord Andron is terrible in the beginning. He is terrified of being duped by a beautiful woman, which is what led, in part, to his bad attitude toward women.
Laurel was innocent is all things, but was admittedly naïve when she first married and her husband didn't do the right thing by her from the start. But, as worldly as the men in the story liked to think themselves, they too were rather naïve. They were deceived time and time again, but were too blind to see.
So, Lord Andron was easily led to believe whatever he was told about Laurel and usually it wasn't good.
You will get frustrated with Adron a great deal. I didn't have much empathy for his side of things except maybe his bad experiences in the past. But, with a certain conniving woman that had everyone twisted around her little finger, you will become quite annoyed.
Laurel isn't as naïve as she once was though and shows a little backbone.
Will Lord Andron finally wake up and smell the coffee? Will the jewel thief be discovered?
There were lots of twist in the story. A shocking reveal will set you back on your heels and really get you thinking about the jewel thief mystery.
A quick entertaining read that is unique to most Regency romances. But, I couldn't help but wonder if maybe a great deal of pain couldn't have been avoided by making some changes in those horrible British laws in regards to women's rights.
What do you think?
Over all this one is a B+
I receive a copy to this book from Long Ago Love and Vicki Hopkins in exchange for an honest review.
Laurel's husband left her in a bind when he died. His sister, Rhonda, was remembered in his will, and their son was to be his cousin Lord Adron's ward. So, when Laurel attempts an escape, she is chased down and her son stolen from her by Adron's men.
Once she locates Lord Andron's estate, he sees she is determined to stay with her son. So, he offers her a deal. She can become an unpaid member of the staff and be a nanny to her son and other children that are currently on estate. Having no choice by law, Laurel takes what she can get in order to be with her son.
Lord Adron believes the worst of Laurel. He was led to believe she brought his cousin to the ultimate despair that caused him to take drastic measures.
But, Laurel surprises Lord Adron by being a caring, hands on mother and having a wonderful way with children. No matter what he throws at her, she is able to withstand it. But, he can not withstand his attraction to her.
In the middle of this drama, there are some valuable jewels that Laurel's husband, Robert had hidden somewhere. Rhonda and her cohorts are desperate to find the jewels. In the process, Rhonda continues the plot against Laurel, insinuating that Laurel may be a jewel thief. She is even more determined to get rid of Laurel with she notices the attraction Lord Adron has for Laurel. Rhonda has set her heart on marrying Lord Adron herself.
With each passing day, Laurel and Lord Andron fall deeper in love with each other. But, there are issues with women that Lord Andron will have to overcome before he can win Laurel over. But, first the jewel thief must be caught and the jewels found.
This was a really entertaining Regency period historical romance.
Lord Andron is terrible in the beginning. He is terrified of being duped by a beautiful woman, which is what led, in part, to his bad attitude toward women.
Laurel was innocent is all things, but was admittedly naïve when she first married and her husband didn't do the right thing by her from the start. But, as worldly as the men in the story liked to think themselves, they too were rather naïve. They were deceived time and time again, but were too blind to see.
So, Lord Andron was easily led to believe whatever he was told about Laurel and usually it wasn't good.
You will get frustrated with Adron a great deal. I didn't have much empathy for his side of things except maybe his bad experiences in the past. But, with a certain conniving woman that had everyone twisted around her little finger, you will become quite annoyed.
Laurel isn't as naïve as she once was though and shows a little backbone.
Will Lord Andron finally wake up and smell the coffee? Will the jewel thief be discovered?
There were lots of twist in the story. A shocking reveal will set you back on your heels and really get you thinking about the jewel thief mystery.
A quick entertaining read that is unique to most Regency romances. But, I couldn't help but wonder if maybe a great deal of pain couldn't have been avoided by making some changes in those horrible British laws in regards to women's rights.
What do you think?
Over all this one is a B+
October 28, 2013
The story is about a handsome but uptight gentleman Adron with trust issues and a beautiful, strong but gentle mother, Laurel. In spite of his initial 'ungentlemanly' behavior, the attraction between them is palpable. A jealous cousin tries to drive a wedge between them, but fails, as expected. Well, this is also supposed to be a mystery but somewhere along the line, the plot falls flat and there is very little suspense. Even the romance between Adron and Laurel lacks luster. There aren't many things in favor of this book and I am disappointed.
May 19, 2014
This book had the potential to be very good. The heroine is lovable and good to the core. And although the hero can be a really blind idiot sometimes, he had many redeemable qualities. I have no problem reading a story line where the hero treats the heroine poorly if his intention or motivations are honorable. And I can understand how a woman falls in love with a man even when he, at times, acts like a jerk. But I hate it when I'm told that the hero and heroine are madly attracted to each other without showing me why - especially if they are supposedly disgusted with each other in the beginning for past transgressions.
So why the two rating? I think it's best answered in a list:
(1) The book started off slow for me and I found the writing irritating because the author would do a great job of "showing" a character's behavior but then for some reason felt the need to "tell" the reader what that behavior meant. Trust your reader to know how to interpret the actions of the characters. For example, the hero shows affection for the heroine's son, who is the hero's "ward", and we are told that makes him a good person. It was almost like the author was forcing down my throat the reasons why the heroine was going to fall in love with the hero despite the fact that the hero could be a real rake.
(2) The overuse of the character's names became tiresome.
(3) I'm all for tension and I get it that there need to be conflicts between the hero and heroine before they get to their HEA. But by the fifth or sixth misunderstanding - just because the hero/heroine refuse to act like adults and talk to each other rather than believing what others tell them (despite supposedly being in love) - I'm over it and just want the story to be done. I found myself skimming through the last 25% of the book just to get to the end.
It's really too bad. With a few changes this book could easily be a four star book.
So why the two rating? I think it's best answered in a list:
(1) The book started off slow for me and I found the writing irritating because the author would do a great job of "showing" a character's behavior but then for some reason felt the need to "tell" the reader what that behavior meant. Trust your reader to know how to interpret the actions of the characters. For example, the hero shows affection for the heroine's son, who is the hero's "ward", and we are told that makes him a good person. It was almost like the author was forcing down my throat the reasons why the heroine was going to fall in love with the hero despite the fact that the hero could be a real rake.
(2) The overuse of the character's names became tiresome.
(3) I'm all for tension and I get it that there need to be conflicts between the hero and heroine before they get to their HEA. But by the fifth or sixth misunderstanding - just because the hero/heroine refuse to act like adults and talk to each other rather than believing what others tell them (despite supposedly being in love) - I'm over it and just want the story to be done. I found myself skimming through the last 25% of the book just to get to the end.
It's really too bad. With a few changes this book could easily be a four star book.
March 29, 2017
Holy cow, was this painful... The story revolved around patriarchal bullshittery (guy dies and appoints his cousin as ward, mother free to go fuck herself), but the lack of English skills and editing sent it way over the top. "A true gentleman in ever since of the word?" "Sitting the house in order?" The book is full of this gibberish! Do you even English, dude?
And the story. Gods. He hates her. He tells her he'll fuck her. She hates him, child abductor and all, so as a way of refusing him she crumbles at his first kiss. And again. And again. Apparently, a marriage of two weeks renders you hopelessly addicted to... well, dick. She's a widow so it's allowed. Get over it.
Add in a bitchy, manipulative cousin, a plot to steal the family jewels, Granny and a stray cousin she's trying to force the "hero" to marry, an endless series of misunderstandings to create a rocky road to romance, and a cadre of villains who've apparently waited a lifetime to wreak vengeance for... well, we never really find out.
It's all just so... sad. Mercifully, it was over before I could integrate how much I hated it.
And the story. Gods. He hates her. He tells her he'll fuck her. She hates him, child abductor and all, so as a way of refusing him she crumbles at his first kiss. And again. And again. Apparently, a marriage of two weeks renders you hopelessly addicted to... well, dick. She's a widow so it's allowed. Get over it.
Add in a bitchy, manipulative cousin, a plot to steal the family jewels, Granny and a stray cousin she's trying to force the "hero" to marry, an endless series of misunderstandings to create a rocky road to romance, and a cadre of villains who've apparently waited a lifetime to wreak vengeance for... well, we never really find out.
It's all just so... sad. Mercifully, it was over before I could integrate how much I hated it.
June 17, 2013
In fairness I must say I haven't finished this book but I have made it through 71%. Adron is an asshole. Laurel is an idiot. The choices they both make drive me crazy. I just couldn't take anymore and stopped reading. I might come back to it sometime just to find out how its all wrapped up.
June 16, 2013
I've always loved a good historical and I actually stayed up late one night to finish this book. The hero and heroine are the standard lady and lord only with some (not all) of the regular baggage. We don't have any of the cliche husband-searching debutante balls in this one. No cloistered females and alpha/cynical males, either. Instead, we have a widow and child, which should appeal to all the mothers out there. The hero's caution of women is explained early and often.
My favorite part about this book was actually the intrigue and mystery of the villains. There was a point in time when the villain's characteristic physical trait was called out and I was wondering if I had solved the case. But the book actually had me guessing until the end. There are some hints here and there though. So if you love a little mystery to your romance, this one will give that to you.
The hero certainly has his moments, where any modern girl would probably give him a good smack-down. But when reading it from a historical eye, the author did a good job of keeping things in context and justifying where the hero was coming from.
My main reason for now giving this 5 stars was my incessant hope that the heroine would let her temper go. So many times in the book she checks her temper or bites of tongue and I just wanted to tell her to let 'er rip. But she never did.
4 out of 5 but I would definitely read another book of this author's in the future.
My favorite part about this book was actually the intrigue and mystery of the villains. There was a point in time when the villain's characteristic physical trait was called out and I was wondering if I had solved the case. But the book actually had me guessing until the end. There are some hints here and there though. So if you love a little mystery to your romance, this one will give that to you.
The hero certainly has his moments, where any modern girl would probably give him a good smack-down. But when reading it from a historical eye, the author did a good job of keeping things in context and justifying where the hero was coming from.
My main reason for now giving this 5 stars was my incessant hope that the heroine would let her temper go. So many times in the book she checks her temper or bites of tongue and I just wanted to tell her to let 'er rip. But she never did.
4 out of 5 but I would definitely read another book of this author's in the future.
July 22, 2013
With a great opening, Wareeze Woodson draws you in immediately to the heroine’s plight and the hero’s goals. The author gives you strong characters with very different agendas, which makes their growing attraction all the more unlikely.
Readers will root for Laurel immediately when her son, for no apparent reason, is stolen from her. Her constant struggle to prove herself as a mother reveals her strong nature and, ultimately, the fact that she has been wronged.
Adron seems to be a callous male of the regency period. Yet the author creates sympathy for him. The male voice seems very believable with his rational approach to the situation as he understands it. He thinks with his brain not other parts of his anatomy as many romance heroes do. This is not to say that he doesn’t get caught in the end by Laurel.
This well written regency romance is an exciting mix of a mother’s love, intrigue, mystery, the problems of family expectations, and a search for true love. Strong competing characters keep the story moving as each tries to get what they expect as their due. An artfully designed twist at the end will keep you guessing. This would be a book that even your male significant other might enjoy.
Readers will root for Laurel immediately when her son, for no apparent reason, is stolen from her. Her constant struggle to prove herself as a mother reveals her strong nature and, ultimately, the fact that she has been wronged.
Adron seems to be a callous male of the regency period. Yet the author creates sympathy for him. The male voice seems very believable with his rational approach to the situation as he understands it. He thinks with his brain not other parts of his anatomy as many romance heroes do. This is not to say that he doesn’t get caught in the end by Laurel.
This well written regency romance is an exciting mix of a mother’s love, intrigue, mystery, the problems of family expectations, and a search for true love. Strong competing characters keep the story moving as each tries to get what they expect as their due. An artfully designed twist at the end will keep you guessing. This would be a book that even your male significant other might enjoy.
April 3, 2014
I really wanted to like this book, but it was just so-so. The characters didn't have much depth at all & there seemed to be no chemistry between them. Each was too wishy-washy in their thoughts & beliefs and so easily turned by words of another. The plot lacked in many ways, including the fact that the main criminal wasn't mentioned much other than appearance & there wasn't much lead in as to his association with Adron's secretary, his nephew.
February 28, 2020
Oh let me count the things I disliked about this book. The characters were unlikable. So let's start with them.
Laurel, while sweet and loving, had absolutely no backbone. I like characters with fight in them that don't let people walk all over them. She was basically a floor mat for the other characters to wipe their feet on. Don't get me started on how she could even look past a man kidnapping her child let alone falling for him. He treated her like the stray dog he didn't want hanging around his house.
Adron was even more despicable. What man thinks it is okay to steal a child from its mother? He doesn't stop there. She is forced to do his bidding just to be near her child. I like a hero that I can respect. Yes, sometimes they make mistakes but this is beyond that. This guy was a total ass and pretty much did everything that made me despise him. He wasn't a gentleman in any way. How any woman would fall for him is beyond me. He is also blind to anything going on around him. He needed slapped more than a couple times.
The story line might have been bearable if the characters had been so I don't have much to say there. Let's talk about using sex to drive the story. I don't have a problem with sex but that isn't love. Let's show real chemistry between the characters instead of having them fall into bed the same day they meet. Let's be real here. Most women won't fall in love with a man who treats her like a door mat just because he grabbed her up, threw her on the bed and had his way with her after being berated by him all day long. He didn't just do it for one day either. She was berated and treated like crap and then bedded every night like that was all she was good for. It just isn't romantic to be treated so cruelly and then expected to service the man in bed.
Ok rant over. Moving on.
Laurel, while sweet and loving, had absolutely no backbone. I like characters with fight in them that don't let people walk all over them. She was basically a floor mat for the other characters to wipe their feet on. Don't get me started on how she could even look past a man kidnapping her child let alone falling for him. He treated her like the stray dog he didn't want hanging around his house.
Adron was even more despicable. What man thinks it is okay to steal a child from its mother? He doesn't stop there. She is forced to do his bidding just to be near her child. I like a hero that I can respect. Yes, sometimes they make mistakes but this is beyond that. This guy was a total ass and pretty much did everything that made me despise him. He wasn't a gentleman in any way. How any woman would fall for him is beyond me. He is also blind to anything going on around him. He needed slapped more than a couple times.
The story line might have been bearable if the characters had been so I don't have much to say there. Let's talk about using sex to drive the story. I don't have a problem with sex but that isn't love. Let's show real chemistry between the characters instead of having them fall into bed the same day they meet. Let's be real here. Most women won't fall in love with a man who treats her like a door mat just because he grabbed her up, threw her on the bed and had his way with her after being berated by him all day long. He didn't just do it for one day either. She was berated and treated like crap and then bedded every night like that was all she was good for. It just isn't romantic to be treated so cruelly and then expected to service the man in bed.
Ok rant over. Moving on.
April 12, 2017
This book had me laughing. I know it was not supposed to be a comedy but come on. The stuff that happened. First just because you say the people ride around on horses and in carriages does not make the book a historical novel. Especially when the actions between the "hero" and the "heroine" is on pace with modern times. Midnight seductions and language be damned. Just funny.
August 1, 2013
This book reads like a Jane Austen period romance...but starts out better (in my opinion)because it throws you into the suspense. A lovely tale of a mother who does what is necessary for her child. Adron was rather arrogant which is probably normal for the time period (ha). Still somehow these two find a way around their initial distaste and he becomes enthralled with Laurel. The suspense keeps you involved to the end. The story was certainly enjoyable and kept me reading.
July 24, 2013
This is a really exciting Regency with an ever-twisting plot, a brave heroine who would do anything to protect her son. The hero was not likable at first, but he was acting like a jerk because he was convinced the heroine was no good. His feelings were based on his previous dealings with beautiful women, so Laurel's lovely face doesn't sway him. I think any lover of Regency romance will eat this one with a spoon.
September 22, 2017
Well, I hate to be mean, but holy Moses that was bad. The H was possibly one of the biggest asses in his time period. We basically start the book with the H (possibly) causing a carriage accident and stealing the h's son. Really??? I'm reading a romance book, right? I'm pretty sure I put down my headless horseman book a few days ago.
So I was feeling pretty sure there was no way the H was going to redeem himself after the kidnapping, and well, I was right. The H proves time and time again he is and will always be an ass. I could feel bad for the h, but she is the typical Pollyanna heroine, but without any backbone at all (except in her mind). "I hate him, but he touched my elbow and now I find myself in the throes of passion." I'm thinking this lady had some father issues (her parents are never really discussed). It could just be I've had a fairly normal upbringing and parents that instilled self confidence, but when a man treats me like sewer water, I tell him to take a flying leap off a bridge. Ladies were supposed to be seen as inferior back then, I give the writer some credit for that, but I think if someone were threatening not only your livelihood but your son, you'd straighten your spine a tad.
This is, of course, another one of those stories where things could have been resolved more easily if anyone communicated outside of grunts and moans, but yeah, they didn't. The h, who is a "lady" is forced to act as a nanny, mistress, and prisoner of sorts in the H's home. The H finally tops the cake with letting the h be taken away by Bow Street runners and sent to jail (maybe they all float down there?). The one truly decent man in the book is glossed over because the h just can't get enough of being treated like a whore to see him as more than a friend. I guess I've seen this in real life, but I don't particularly care to read about it in a "romance."
Yeah, I think I need to just drop the mic on this one.My advice: just move on. There are better writers, there are books with actual romance in them, not emotional abuse. I'm giving two stars because I didn't see a bunch of typos and the writing wasn't horrible, the author just needs to craft an H that doesn't make me want to throw him in front of a carriage. Honestly, the h could be so lucky.
So I was feeling pretty sure there was no way the H was going to redeem himself after the kidnapping, and well, I was right. The H proves time and time again he is and will always be an ass. I could feel bad for the h, but she is the typical Pollyanna heroine, but without any backbone at all (except in her mind). "I hate him, but he touched my elbow and now I find myself in the throes of passion." I'm thinking this lady had some father issues (her parents are never really discussed). It could just be I've had a fairly normal upbringing and parents that instilled self confidence, but when a man treats me like sewer water, I tell him to take a flying leap off a bridge. Ladies were supposed to be seen as inferior back then, I give the writer some credit for that, but I think if someone were threatening not only your livelihood but your son, you'd straighten your spine a tad.
This is, of course, another one of those stories where things could have been resolved more easily if anyone communicated outside of grunts and moans, but yeah, they didn't. The h, who is a "lady" is forced to act as a nanny, mistress, and prisoner of sorts in the H's home. The H finally tops the cake with letting the h be taken away by Bow Street runners and sent to jail (maybe they all float down there?). The one truly decent man in the book is glossed over because the h just can't get enough of being treated like a whore to see him as more than a friend. I guess I've seen this in real life, but I don't particularly care to read about it in a "romance."
Yeah, I think I need to just drop the mic on this one.My advice: just move on. There are better writers, there are books with actual romance in them, not emotional abuse. I'm giving two stars because I didn't see a bunch of typos and the writing wasn't horrible, the author just needs to craft an H that doesn't make me want to throw him in front of a carriage. Honestly, the h could be so lucky.
December 4, 2019
Well... It's been a long time since I spite-finished a book so I guess I was due. I hate to criticize someone's work without offering some positive highlights but I hated 95% of this book even more than that. Not a single person in this book has a lick of sense or behaves in a rational manner. Except the under 12 set. They're cool and adorable and frequently trotted out as plot points. Okay, so the heroine is slightly better than a raving idiot but that's because of her interactions with the under-12-group; she is a believably fierce and dedicated and desperate mother. However, she loses a lot of her plus points the moment she is around an adult. As for the hero... GDIAF, dude. I have read "barbarian romances" where the hero has better manners and treats others with more courtesy. Your and your assumedly magic dick are ridiculous.
Oh, and I can't be the only one that was getting total Flowers in The Attic vibes from Rhonda over poor dear dead Robbie, right?
The sad thing is there were elements in here that could work. Missing wills, missing jewels, spiteful people with secrets... It just lacked coherency in the plot and, ohyeah, characters that I wanted to see live happily ever after.
Oh, wait. George. I liked George. I'll take more of his sensible, thoughtful, communicative sense. He will have a HEA, yes.
Oh, and I can't be the only one that was getting total Flowers in The Attic vibes from Rhonda over poor dear dead Robbie, right?
The sad thing is there were elements in here that could work. Missing wills, missing jewels, spiteful people with secrets... It just lacked coherency in the plot and, ohyeah, characters that I wanted to see live happily ever after.
Oh, wait. George. I liked George. I'll take more of his sensible, thoughtful, communicative sense. He will have a HEA, yes.
October 23, 2017
Had to make myself finish it!!!! Spoilers!
The H was the largest JERK ever as well as TSTL. The h was just TSTL esp. about forgiving the H for all the hateful things he did to her cause his Mommy and a past lover hurt him. The whole book I would have to stop reading every so often so I could rant to myself about all the stupidity in this book. Save your self and run in the other direction. Even the villains were TSTL. Skip this one. SQ
The H was the largest JERK ever as well as TSTL. The h was just TSTL esp. about forgiving the H for all the hateful things he did to her cause his Mommy and a past lover hurt him. The whole book I would have to stop reading every so often so I could rant to myself about all the stupidity in this book. Save your self and run in the other direction. Even the villains were TSTL. Skip this one. SQ
April 10, 2019
I almost didnt finish this but didn't have much else lined up so I skimmed it to the end. It was terrible. I was so disgusted by the main characters. He was a complete and utter arsehole from start to finish. She had apparently no ability to resist his good looks and him almost pushing himself on her even though most of his horrible arsehole behaviour was directly affecting her/ directed at her. ugh.
June 10, 2020
Adron starts out the book by stealing James, his two year old ward from the arms of his mother and riding off with the boy. He is a man who jumps to conclusions. He had never even talked to Laurel but he decided that she was a horrible mother and that he could take better care of James. I was continually mad at Adron. But it is a book with lots of adventure, villains, and tense situations. It is very intriguing.
October 26, 2017
Suspense, murder and love
I loved this book! I didn't know who was the bad guy until the end! The chemistry between these two characters was hot from the beginning! I was in the edge of my seat towards the end! This book had everything in it! A murder, a sister, a wife, a brother all rolled into a great book😊
I loved this book! I didn't know who was the bad guy until the end! The chemistry between these two characters was hot from the beginning! I was in the edge of my seat towards the end! This book had everything in it! A murder, a sister, a wife, a brother all rolled into a great book😊
May 13, 2017
Wonderful
This book is truly wonderful. The story keeps you in suspense until the very end. The book is full of love, hate, family, honor and jealousy. I hope you will enjoy the story as much as I did.
This book is truly wonderful. The story keeps you in suspense until the very end. The book is full of love, hate, family, honor and jealousy. I hope you will enjoy the story as much as I did.
October 23, 2017
A Romantic Mystery
A widow falls for her son's protector. She is caught up in the mystery of her husband's death and her sister-in-law's hatred of her. Missing jewels add to the mystery.
A widow falls for her son's protector. She is caught up in the mystery of her husband's death and her sister-in-law's hatred of her. Missing jewels add to the mystery.
August 28, 2018
Another stupid man
Once again a man is to dance to see what is actually happening around him and instead blames the innocent party. Once again she’s a comes to him no matter what he does.
Once again a man is to dance to see what is actually happening around him and instead blames the innocent party. Once again she’s a comes to him no matter what he does.
November 13, 2021
Needs editing
The story line was inventive, but I almost quit halfway through because of the lack of editing and proofreading, which made the book look amateurish. Authors, hire a professional! Writing and editing are separate skills, and most do not have both.
The story line was inventive, but I almost quit halfway through because of the lack of editing and proofreading, which made the book look amateurish. Authors, hire a professional! Writing and editing are separate skills, and most do not have both.
November 10, 2018
very Good
It took hold over me. I could not put this book down I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Hero was so horrible at first and then love struck. BOOM.
It took hold over me. I could not put this book down I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Hero was so horrible at first and then love struck. BOOM.
March 26, 2017
Good Read
This was a well-written story. Even with the intrigue, it was light read. The interesting characters and plot made this a book that I would recommend.
This was a well-written story. Even with the intrigue, it was light read. The interesting characters and plot made this a book that I would recommend.
June 19, 2018
Now this post will be a little bit different to my other posts since I didn’t fall in love with this book like I did the others I’ve reviewed.
I like the idea of this book. A young mother that’s been mistreated by her dead husband and his sister tries to protect her young son who’s inherited his father’s title but has a guardian who’s only interested in protecting his ward and his wards interest. And because it’s a romance novel the mother and guardian have to fall in love and live happily ever after.
Now on paper that sounds like a great story, however the way it’s written disappointed me a little. The guardian Adron comes across the mother Laurel and her son Jamie as she’s on her way to visit her aunt. However her carriage overturns and Adron offers his help except he ends up taking Jamie and leaving Lauren in the wrecked carriage. Essentially abducting Jamie without explanation to Laurel.
What I don’t like about this though is that Laurel ends up being smitten over the fact that Adron shows interest in Jamie and ends up sleeping with him no matter how awful he is towards her. In this day and age, with domestic violence being a big issue and trying to prevent it from happening in future generations I found myself disappointed that this book felt like it condonned that kind of behavior.
In my job I hear people who are experiencing domestic violence and what they go through trying to get out of this situation and need help. To then read a book that essentially says it’s ok for people to treat others like dirt, like lesser beings and that the one that’s not treated well will just fall in love with them and end up devoting their life and happiness to them.
Although this wasn’t the main story of this book it was the main message I took out of it. I don’t know if that’s because I hear about how domestic violence affects others on an almost daily basis and I work with people who are creating new ways to help us support our customers who are affected by this. But I don’t feel like we should be allowing this message that it’s ok to treat people in a degrading way to be out there. Because I can see some people reading this book and seeing nothing wrong with this treatment.
I will acknowledge the fact that Wareeze raised the issue that Adron’s treatment of Laurel was despicable and that it’s inescusable no matter what point of view you take. However I feel there was more they could do to ensure this message got across. I know in the time that this book was set (regency times) that this kind of behavior was probably common place. However that doesn’t mean we should be writing about this issue as if it’s ok. I feel that in this case there was more Wareeze could do to help us change the perception of domestic violence to help prevent it in the future.
I know we live in the day and age where I’m sure there are going to be social justice warriors wanting to jump at every little thing and maybe some will criticise Wareeze while others will criticise me for thinking this about this book. But with an issue like domestic violence I think we need to err on the side of caution and support those experiencing this or know someone who is.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence lease use the links below to get the support you or them need, I have provided links for Australia, England and the US. If you live outside these areas please contact your local support groups for assistance. Please note that I’m not affiliated with any of these organisations and I found these from Google. If you feel there are other support systems available for those affected please comment links below.
Australia: https://www.whiteribbon.org.au/find-h...
England: http://www.nationaldomesticviolencehe...
US: http://www.thehotline.org
Now I’d like to end this review on a positive note which is that Wareeze was able to write in such a way that I was captivated throughout the book. If you feel that you could overlook the domestic violence stuff the mystery of who killed Jamie’s father and is still threatening Laurel will be a thrilling read!
https://proudbookreviews.com/2018/05/...
I like the idea of this book. A young mother that’s been mistreated by her dead husband and his sister tries to protect her young son who’s inherited his father’s title but has a guardian who’s only interested in protecting his ward and his wards interest. And because it’s a romance novel the mother and guardian have to fall in love and live happily ever after.
Now on paper that sounds like a great story, however the way it’s written disappointed me a little. The guardian Adron comes across the mother Laurel and her son Jamie as she’s on her way to visit her aunt. However her carriage overturns and Adron offers his help except he ends up taking Jamie and leaving Lauren in the wrecked carriage. Essentially abducting Jamie without explanation to Laurel.
What I don’t like about this though is that Laurel ends up being smitten over the fact that Adron shows interest in Jamie and ends up sleeping with him no matter how awful he is towards her. In this day and age, with domestic violence being a big issue and trying to prevent it from happening in future generations I found myself disappointed that this book felt like it condonned that kind of behavior.
In my job I hear people who are experiencing domestic violence and what they go through trying to get out of this situation and need help. To then read a book that essentially says it’s ok for people to treat others like dirt, like lesser beings and that the one that’s not treated well will just fall in love with them and end up devoting their life and happiness to them.
Although this wasn’t the main story of this book it was the main message I took out of it. I don’t know if that’s because I hear about how domestic violence affects others on an almost daily basis and I work with people who are creating new ways to help us support our customers who are affected by this. But I don’t feel like we should be allowing this message that it’s ok to treat people in a degrading way to be out there. Because I can see some people reading this book and seeing nothing wrong with this treatment.
I will acknowledge the fact that Wareeze raised the issue that Adron’s treatment of Laurel was despicable and that it’s inescusable no matter what point of view you take. However I feel there was more they could do to ensure this message got across. I know in the time that this book was set (regency times) that this kind of behavior was probably common place. However that doesn’t mean we should be writing about this issue as if it’s ok. I feel that in this case there was more Wareeze could do to help us change the perception of domestic violence to help prevent it in the future.
I know we live in the day and age where I’m sure there are going to be social justice warriors wanting to jump at every little thing and maybe some will criticise Wareeze while others will criticise me for thinking this about this book. But with an issue like domestic violence I think we need to err on the side of caution and support those experiencing this or know someone who is.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence lease use the links below to get the support you or them need, I have provided links for Australia, England and the US. If you live outside these areas please contact your local support groups for assistance. Please note that I’m not affiliated with any of these organisations and I found these from Google. If you feel there are other support systems available for those affected please comment links below.
Australia: https://www.whiteribbon.org.au/find-h...
England: http://www.nationaldomesticviolencehe...
US: http://www.thehotline.org
Now I’d like to end this review on a positive note which is that Wareeze was able to write in such a way that I was captivated throughout the book. If you feel that you could overlook the domestic violence stuff the mystery of who killed Jamie’s father and is still threatening Laurel will be a thrilling read!
https://proudbookreviews.com/2018/05/...
November 14, 2013
Often times the term “crossover appeal” gets thrown around when describing works of a particular genre, but there isn’t a better way to describe Conduct Unbecoming of a Gentleman. For those looking for historical romance, it is there in spades. The central storyline between Adron and Laurel is well-paced, full of raw emotion and quality character insight. Even as the story swirls around them, their connection serves as an omnipresent undercurrent. Ms. Woodson handles it perfectly, keeping the reader interested w/o bogging down the pace.
For readers that like to see action in their stories, this certainly delivers there as well. There is familial infighting, larceny, counterfeiting, and enough shady characters running around to ensure that the reader keeps turning the pages long into the night. For those that enjoy a bit of spy craft, the story has a nice caper subplot that was very unexpected and handled brilliantly. More than once the reader thinks they have it figured out, only to realize they were seizing on the wrong details.
Two things in particular really made this story standout. First was the attention to detail Ms. Woodson uses in depicting 19th century England. From the costume to the nomenclature, the research was thorough without seeming heavy-handed in the slightest. The second are the characterizations throughout (Rhonda, serving as a chief foil, literally jumps off the page), which connects readers to those involved, creating a visceral response as actions unfold.
For readers that like to see action in their stories, this certainly delivers there as well. There is familial infighting, larceny, counterfeiting, and enough shady characters running around to ensure that the reader keeps turning the pages long into the night. For those that enjoy a bit of spy craft, the story has a nice caper subplot that was very unexpected and handled brilliantly. More than once the reader thinks they have it figured out, only to realize they were seizing on the wrong details.
Two things in particular really made this story standout. First was the attention to detail Ms. Woodson uses in depicting 19th century England. From the costume to the nomenclature, the research was thorough without seeming heavy-handed in the slightest. The second are the characterizations throughout (Rhonda, serving as a chief foil, literally jumps off the page), which connects readers to those involved, creating a visceral response as actions unfold.
February 18, 2014
Conduct Unbecoming of a Gentleman grabbed my attention from the opening scene of an apparent kidnapping of the young boy Jamie. From there I was unable to put the book down…literally, I stayed up as late as I possibly could last night, reading until my eyes just wouldn’t stay open, and then I continued reading today until I finished (sorry floors you’ll get cleaned another day ;).
This was not your regular everyday romance novel. This book had everything! Kidnapping, stolen jewels, murder and yes romance (hot, sexy romance to boot!), every time I thought I had this book figured out a twist would happen and it took the story in another direction.
The main characters Laurel and Adron easily drew me into their story lines, their pain, anger, fear and passion jumped right off the page and I felt every emotion with them. Right up to the point where Laurel was afraid about a murderer on the loose and she was alone and in fear, while I was deep into that scene someone knocked on my front door and I literally had to pull my nails out of the ceiling and calm my nerves to answer the door.
Author Wareeze Woodson knows how to make you fall in love with her characters also she can make you want to jump into the pages and punch some in the face. Laurel’s sister-in-Law Rhonda was one such character, I will let you read it so you understand what I mean, all I will say here is what a b%&ch.
If you’re looking for a great read that will have you turning page after page to find out what happens next then I highly recommend this book!
This was not your regular everyday romance novel. This book had everything! Kidnapping, stolen jewels, murder and yes romance (hot, sexy romance to boot!), every time I thought I had this book figured out a twist would happen and it took the story in another direction.
The main characters Laurel and Adron easily drew me into their story lines, their pain, anger, fear and passion jumped right off the page and I felt every emotion with them. Right up to the point where Laurel was afraid about a murderer on the loose and she was alone and in fear, while I was deep into that scene someone knocked on my front door and I literally had to pull my nails out of the ceiling and calm my nerves to answer the door.
Author Wareeze Woodson knows how to make you fall in love with her characters also she can make you want to jump into the pages and punch some in the face. Laurel’s sister-in-Law Rhonda was one such character, I will let you read it so you understand what I mean, all I will say here is what a b%&ch.
If you’re looking for a great read that will have you turning page after page to find out what happens next then I highly recommend this book!
July 4, 2015
Historical English romance with a recently widowed lady trying to find a good life with her son but finding it very difficult because she has no rights when her son in the ward to a rich powerful lord.
Lady Laurel Laningham is trying to be happy and raise her two year old son, Jamie when bad and worse things keep happening. I never liked Lord Adron Gladrey and it starts out with him being an awful kidnapper and doesn't get much better as the story progresses because he blackmails a sexual relationship with Laurel and I don't get why he is the hero of the story. George, the friend and neighbor was a much better person overall and I had hopes for the story to go in that direction, but no, the stupid cousin Adron has to get everyone's love. Yuck. I almost gave this one star, but it was well written and I liked the family interactions because they were natural.
Robert's twin sister is evil awful and doesn't truly get what she deserves although perhaps living with the truth is bad enough punishment.
OK story, but I'm not going to look for more to read from this author.
257 pages and kindle freebie
2 stars
Lady Laurel Laningham is trying to be happy and raise her two year old son, Jamie when bad and worse things keep happening. I never liked Lord Adron Gladrey and it starts out with him being an awful kidnapper and doesn't get much better as the story progresses because he blackmails a sexual relationship with Laurel and I don't get why he is the hero of the story. George, the friend and neighbor was a much better person overall and I had hopes for the story to go in that direction, but no, the stupid cousin Adron has to get everyone's love. Yuck. I almost gave this one star, but it was well written and I liked the family interactions because they were natural.
Robert's twin sister is evil awful and doesn't truly get what she deserves although perhaps living with the truth is bad enough punishment.
OK story, but I'm not going to look for more to read from this author.
257 pages and kindle freebie
2 stars
July 24, 2013
Recently widowed Lady Laurel Laningham flees Landings to escape her untenable position. Alone now and at the mercy of her sister-in-law, she decides to nestle under her aunt’s wings for a spell. To add to her burdens, her young son’s new guardian, Lord Adron Gladrey, has announced his intentions to take complete charge of his ward. The killer is stalking her and a devious jewel thief is stealing the family jewels. Can she convince her son’s guardian she is not a dangerous lunatic and is perfectly capable of raising her son or will he always consider her untrustworthy as a mother to his ward? Will his stubborn blindness send her straight into the path of the murderer, or will he relent in time to save her from following her husband into the grave?
http://www.amazon.com/Conduct-Unbecom... 1 1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1367593654&sr=1-1&keywords=wareeze+woodson
http://www.amazon.com/Conduct-Unbecom... 1 1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1367593654&sr=1-1&keywords=wareeze+woodson
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