Trials of Artemis

The Haberdashers #1

by Sue London

The Haberdashers

In 1805 three little girls decided to create a "boys club" because boys have more fun. Their childhood was filled with sword fighting, horse racing, and archery. Now in 1815 they are all grown up and expected to join Society. Who will marry such independent and deadly misses?

Trials of Artemis
(Regency, Hot) Loving Lord Lucifer...
An independent bluestocking sneaks into a library to read rare Greek texts and ends up with a husband instead.

Jacqueline "Jack" Walters loves archery and Greek military history. In her third season she has failed to inspire so much as one marriage proposal and is planning to settle into the quiet life of a spinster.

Gideon Wolfe, Earl of Harrington, has been avoiding marriage but a case of mistaken identity in the library has left him saddled with an argumentative and unwilling fiancée.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Regency, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance, Fiction

225 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 12, 2013

About the author

Best selling author Sue London created the beloved Regency romance series The Haberdashers. If you like your historical romance with a little action, a little humor, and a lot of strong-minded women, then this is the series for you!

Recent reader reactions:
"Sue London is a very gifted writer. I always enjoy reading her books." ~ Annie
"It was so well written, and the storyline is wonderfully thrilling. If I could I would have rated this book a ten, but five is all they allow so that's what it is." ~ Pattimari
"This witty love story enchanted me, and I look forward to reading more of the Haberdashers series." ~ ReaderLady

For more on Sue you can check out her website, twitter page, or be her fan on Facebook.

Reviews

[Debby *BabyDee* · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly love Sue London as an author and I enjoy her books. The Haberdashers, #1 did not fail. Wasn't sure if I was going to like it but I found myself loving the masculine names of the heroine and her friends and to know that they were very intelligent and dangerous women in their own right.

I loved the banter between Jack and Giddy and his realizing that women are just as intelligent as men. This was a very nice read and well written story.

4.5-Stars

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this book on amazon. It was cheap, had decent reviews, so I went with it. This merits about 2 1/4 stars, but I generously rounded up.

First, the formatting. I believe this is self published, and something went awry in whatever conversions authors have to make when they take the work to market. This made the dialog hard to follow in some spots, and it also made a bit distracting in some places. I didn't spot any obvious spelling errors, but there are minor punctuation issues. Being self published, this didn't sway my star ratings.

Second, the set up was ok. I had to suspend reality a bit. The heroine is described as a tall woman, and I would think that the hero would immediately recognize she wasn't the widow that the planned to meet in the library. But, it worked for the story.

Third, London has great dialogue, but she fails at showing the characters. She tells us instead. I think with more practice that she will hone her skill and each story will be better. Also, there were questions not asked, and a bit more communication about the important stuff in life between the characters. The heroine has questions of why her husband is so moody. We find out important information through internal dialoge. These two just needed to have an open and honest communication along with the witty banter.

The heroine is great. I loved her. I wanted to see her succeed, but I don't think she will. Not because she isn't smart and resourceful, but because no one has set her up for success. There is no mother-in-law to show her the ropes. There is no aunt to tell her how to do things. But, what she does know is so unorthodox. It is refreshing to see such a bright and intelligent character, but no where in the story was she educating herself on her duties as a countess. This kind of bothered me. The hero could be a real ass. I don't know if I like him or not, however, he really adores the heroine. Which is what romance is all about.

This is a nice change of pace in romance, and though I was hard on the work, I believe London can continue to hone her skill. I will be looking for the next installment of this series.

[Cheesecake · Rating 5 out of 5]

free today on Amazon and Kobo

It was a surprise read for me and I have enjoyed several other books by SL since then.
I like to go back and re-read it occasionally. I hope they make an audio version someday!

Jack is actually Jacqueline, and is one of 3 friends (Jack, Sabre and George) who call themselves 'The Haberdashers'. They are not the typical 'misses' of the Ton. Jack likes to read about warfare and plans to never marry. But this plan goes awry when she meets Gideon in a darkened Library.
A simple, yet spicy case of mistaken identity leads to wedding plans that neither MC planned for.
I loved both MCs, and how they play off each other. There's some mistaken jealousy of Jack's young friend that drives Gideon to foolish behavior. There's Jack's resistance to marriage, but not to the point where it is annoying to the reader, imho. And if that's not enough to keep you interested, there's intrigue and smugglers!
Taking place just before the beginning of this story and overlapping a bit, is a shorter story about the butler and a woman he rescues, A Common Christmas. A very satisfying 'down stairs' romance. This one is available in audio!

Safety is good They meet because he mistakes her as a widow he hooks up with, in the library at a party. So there is that initial OW, but she isn't evil and goes away after that initial meeting. Although he's a little pissed at first about being tied down against his will, he is true to her from their first meeting. But she's almost as annoyed about it as him which throws his conceited ass off kilter.

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

My rule generally is that if an author doesn't have me interested by at least the third chapter, I know I'm not going to enjoy the rest. After the third chapter, I was bored and uninterested, but convinced myself to continue. A few more chapters later, I'm still not into it. I haven't been given very much information on either character, so they both seem flat to me. There's no chemistry. There's very light lust, but that's not the same thing at all. There's no tension, and no, just the fact that they're forced into marriage doesn't by itself create tension. What does Gideon have to lose by getting married? What does Jack have to lose? What's at stake here? Why am I being forced to read the entire book before I have those answers? Tension, for me, is created by me knowing what the stakes are at the beginning and then wanting to read the rest to know how those problems will be solved. If that doesn't happen, then I want to at least like either character in order to stay with the book until some real tension happens. But in this. case, I don't, because the characters are so flat. "Jack" is young and acts that way, and it's off-putting...at least to me. Gideon has no personality to speak of. Disappointing so far, and I just can't continue at this point. Maybe later when I get really desperate for reading material.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

After I started reviewing this book, I realized that I had a weird relationship with it. There were a lot of things that just didn't work, but it had... something. Something that worked for me. But it wasn't great. It wasn't close to great, but it was good? Not solid, but it had depth? I... yeah. Let me ramble out my thoughts here.

To start, my favorite part of a romance novel is the characters, and in that respect this book didn't quite live up to my expectations. Jack started out like most romance novel heroines: a bluestocking who is still somewhat beautiful. She's part of the Haberdashers, a boys' club made up of her childhood friends. Not too creative in terms of heroines, but nothing bad, either. But Jack was... like an attempt at a usual romance heroine. If she had been described as less of a bluestocking and less of a tomboy I think I would have bought her more. She was fiery... sometimes. She was a bluestocking...sometimes. She had all the accessories but none of the pizazz to pull them off, if that makes sense. And Gideon... I was super disappointed with Gideon. He was a jerk and not in the soul crushing way I usually enjoy them in romance novels. He would say really mean things and there would be no payout! You can't basically tell this woman that she must be something of a lightskirt because she fell for your advances more than once and just wake up the next day and never hear anything about it! Jack never had any real fights with him for stuff like that, no indignation had what a jackass he was being. They fought about other, stupid things, but never comments like that. And those are my favorite! I love punch-you-in-the-stomach moments and this never really had them, even though it SHOULD have had them. All buildup and no payout.

Also, I'm not a huge fan of the scandalous marriage cliche - especially since this one felt pretty contrived. I think some authors do such a good job they get away with it without feeling like they're copping out, and this one almost made it. It happens super early on, which is the only way I think it can without bugging me, and I liked that they slowly started to get to know each other. But again, Gideon would say things to her and there was never the reaction I wanted. It was like they were bowling balls rolling slowly toward the pins, and by the time they got to the end I wanted to see if they'd all get knocked down, but I wasn't super invested and not surprised when only a handful fell (that might be the worst analogy ever but this book isn't inspiring any really clever insights ha).

Also, the ending, to me, was ridiculous, I didn't buy it at all and it kind of came out of nowhere - you can't mention smugglers once, completely offhand, and then make them the impetus behind the entire ending. And if you're going to sell Jack as some sort of female protege with weapons, why did you make her possibly one of the worst heroines in a dramatic fight moment EVER? Bella Swan was better in fight scenes, and she closed her eyes for all of them.

BUT at the same time, I enjoyed it. Although now that I'm writing this I can't remember why. Maybe it was all those moments of almost being heartbreaking, almost being romantic, almost being friends. Maybe it was just a feeling - I wanted to see them resolve their issues, I wanted to see them come to their senses. I think Gideon being so uninterested in even getting to know her for so long was intriguing; he definitely took much longer to cave than most other heroes. Yeah maybe that's why - he really fought until the bitter end against that relationship, in some respects. But I'm also recalling some self-righteous anger that I didn't feel like he deserved... I don't know, I'm rambling and this isn't well-written, but something about this book was enjoyable for me.

I think... I think that despite itself this book had depth in a way that other books can't seem to achieve, even when other things are great (specifically thinking of Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase - everyone loves that book but for me it never hit the level of depth I was looking for). I can't put a finger on why, since a lot - no, I CAN put a finger on why! It was because she initially described the characters as being super typical, boring, cookie-cutter characters and then she didn't actually deliver. She kept using all these cliched descriptions and when you actually saw the characters in action that's not what you got. Instead what she DID deliver were characters that I actually liked. She WANTED those characters to be a fiery bluestocking and a hardened rake, but it didn't work! Instead she got what was actually a relatively shy girl who loved her family and paired her with a politician who had no idea what he wanted out of life and sort of fell ass-backwards into a relationship. THAT'S WHAT IT WAS. She tried to be cliched and failed, but in a good way! AHA I figured it out!

I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series about Sabrina and the duke - I think they have the potential to be a little more exciting since as characters they seemed to have more... oomph than the hero and heroine of this book. I actually felt like I understood the duke as much as I understood Gideon.

Oh that reminds me - also out of nowhere the duke goes from being apparently Gideon's best friend, definitely his best man, and then they're fighting and screwing each other over, over politics? At the dinner table? Literally came out of nowhere - there was not a single indication that the two of them weren't solid until suddenly they were more like frenemies, but with no suggestion before that that the friendship wasn't great.

But oh right, I did like it. The more I criticize, the more I can't remember why, but I did like it. There was something here, something that she was almost doing, that I enjoyed. And I have to say it shows potential - early books are never as good as later books, and I think this author has promise. Revelatory moment, she delivered in spite of herself - these characters weren't the characters she tried to make them, but they were good characters despite that. They were better than she tried to make them because they weren't cliches.

[Veronica (Honey Roselea Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up

This was cute. A little too cringy at parts but overall fun. Must say, the arguing sometimes felt way too much for me and put me off a little bit but still cute to read.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trials of Artemis by Sue London is a 2013 Graythorn Publishing release. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jacqueline Walters is part of a group of ladies that started a "club" as children they named "The Haberdashers". Each of them carried a masculine name instead of using their real names. "Jack" is Jacqueline's nickname. When her sister Samantha attends her first ball, Jack a loyal bluestocking decides to check out the library and a case of mistaken identity has her caught in the arms of Gideon Wolfe, the Earl of Harrington. The compromising position only has one way out and that's marriage.
Jack and Gideon both have preconceived notions about the opposite sex. They are both a little depressed about the marriage they are forced into, but Gideon decides to make the best of the situation if he can. It takes a little time, but before long the arguements even out and it looks like the two could make a match after all. But of course things are never that easy. Gideon fails to understand his wife's feelings about women's rights and then he gets himself in a serious tussle and Jack will have to come to HIS rescue.
This was a really entertaining regency period novel and I am impressed that the author stayed true to the period's social requirements. The couple were married before they consummated the relationship, something we might roll our eyes at today, but in those days premarital sex was very rare for ladies. The laws concerning women and the attitudes men had without apology are really infuriating, but that is really how things were in this period. So, for me this series got off to a great start. Jack is not a whiny, spoiled girl who no brain in her head. She enjoys reading, archery and can shoot a gun as well as most men. Gideon means well most of the time, but he just never met a woman like Jack. Sometimes, I felt sorry for Gideon because he was just clueless about somethings. He was however, quite educated on how to please a woman in the bedroom and proceeded to teach his new bride a few things.
This was a really fun way to spend the afternoon. I am putting the next book in the series in the queue right now!
4 stars

[Tammy Walton Grant · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the name, and liked the book. Win win.

It has a spinster, a rake, a tryst that begins with mistaken identity, a shotgun marriage, a mouthy heroine, a clever Hero, some witty dialogue, lots of banter. London does a really good job of it that part. I enjoyed the book almost all the way through.

I was skimming towards the end, though, and that was because of this: too much tell, not enough show.



INORITE? Anyone who has read my reviews knows how much I usually like to be spoonfed. In this case, though, I wasn't choking on pablum so much as I was needing to SEE what was going on, not just be told about it.

And the ending seemed a teensy bit convenient, but what the heck. It's a first book.

There was something here good enough that I'm going to keep reading the series. I believe London will get better - and when she does, she will be great.

3 stars, and I'd recommend it.

[Jules · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Trials of Artemis by Sue London. Jack, our heroine, was full of surprises and wit. Gideon, our hero, was the perfect blend of reality -- not perfect a perfect person by any stretch but not boorish, either. Ms. London's writing had me laughing out loud at some their exchanges. It takes a talented author to make me do that!

I did have a problem with this book that took me a bit to figure out. A book with an author this good is usually hard for me to put down. Not so with Trials of Artemis. I enjoyed reading it as I was actually doing it, but kept having to convince myself to pick it back up. I finally figured out that it was the plot that had me unengaged. In an effort to explain without giving any of the plot away, let me just say this book played out somewhat like a romantic comedy. Until Chapter 29, about 81% through the book, the whole story is about their romance. No mystery or adventure happens until that far into the story. Even their relationship wasn't that big of an issue since they both rather liked each other. Putting the book down and not coming back for days was easy because I didn't feel compelled to pick it back up to answer burning, plot-driven questions floating around in my head. I decided not to take off any stars for that since the book really is a good one and the author is wonderfully talented. Romantic comedies just aren't my cup of tea, I suppose. If it's yours, I'd encourage you to read this book for sure!

[Andree · Rating 3 out of 5]

I mean, this is fluffy fun, but it also misses the mark of what I was in the mood for. They're good together, and I enjoy their dynamic, and how they work things out, but what it really comes down is that I wanted this to be more about two strong-willed minds working their way to where they end up a bit more naturally, and internally, as opposed to the same strong-willed minds working their way to where they end up prompted by a stream of external drama. Also, I would have preferred their getting more of the way there as part of their engagement, because they way they were heading while engaged was delightful. I probably could have dealt with the rest of the drama, had it not been for that issue in the framing. It grated a lot, because I wanted the book to go differently.

I also could have done without the scandal of why they really had to get married being announced, the smugglers, the tedious and really-too-truncated-to-be-anything-but-simplistic-and-simultaneously-annoying fight egged on by the irritating friend re: women's rights. I could have probably tolerated two of three, but... but there was just a lot of drama in this external to what could have been a fun romance built on two people logic-ing themselves into love, after a forced marriage.

So yeah, I picked at this all evening, but didn't love it.

[Joan · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dnf’d at 53% The heroine is a total Mary Sue and her hubby is two dimensional. Predictable plot and neither character engaging enough to keep me reading.

[alice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Are you telling me that sexual attraction can convert a misogynist into a supporter of women’s rights? Because aside from great sex there’s not much connecting the protagonist with her husband. Whom she only married not to ruin the reputation of her family. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying it’s unrealistic. I get attracted to wrong people all the time. I just didn’t know that being great in bed could lead to such a transformation…

You figured it, I’m not too happy with the story. Jack marries a sexy dude and has to learn to live with him so it’s a good thing that he’s at least sexy. Where’s the problem, you ask? Well, her hobbies include weapons and investment. It’s not an easy thing for her to live with someone who thinks all women are brainless, whimsical, greedy things and compares rights for women with rights for dogs. A few points go to the author for criticizing the modern society in a regency romance novel but I’m still not convinced of how easy the problems resolved for the couple.

"Come on, Alice," - I hear you saying, - "You read the blurb. You knew there was going to be an enemies-to-lovers story". Yes, I did. This is what I was there for. This is what I didn’t get, though. I love it when two opposing energies clash, when people are madly drawn to each other but there’s disagreement that holds them apart and they fight against each other but also fight for each other, when there’s this crazy chemistry, and a minor issue that they need to overcome in order to be together. But the issue at hand is misogyny. This thing is HUGE. Granted, these two are already married aka trapped by each other’s side, so the author can put issues of any size in their way. And there is indeed character transformation, the guy's way of thinking changes. But it happens within the last few pages of a book. Sorry, that’s just too easy.

Jacqueline was a way too perfect character, for my taste. I could relate to her in some ways. She isn’t not-like-other-girls for the sake of it, but rather because boys get to do all the fun stuff. So what a girl gotta do? Take a boy’s name and practice swords and racing! I like that she was different instead of being “special” (even though her husband keeps registering the latter instead), I just didn’t get to see her weaknesses. She’s great at sword-fighting, strategy and financial research, and is allegedly bad at all the high society social stuff, but this part is not really shown. She claims that but isn’t put in a situation where there could be consequences. Which is a pity because her flaws are right there, come on, exhibit them. Cause a disaster. Bring on the suffering.

Other than that a good point is made of her being no less than any man, which is a big deal throughout the book and in that society. I only wish it wasn’t at the cost of being a mortal human. I needed to see her mortal, not only have her claim that she’s bad at something but witness it and judge myself.

Overall, 3-3,4 stars with plot conveniences and the general telliness considered. I’ll give the series one more try with the second book, featuring another sword-fighting heroine and a love interest with progressive views. Maybe a more enjoyable pairing will make for a more satisfying read.

[Iza Brekilien · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know why (maybe the name Artemis ?...), but I didn't expect to like that book in spite of the good reviews. And I was right : I loved it instead !
I kept waiting for a bad or a stupid thing to happen : nothing. The characters were good. The story was good. I thought the girls's club would be too much, and some of them are too much - but in a good way. I'll be following that series and plan on having a lot of fun !

[Cyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so enjoyable. Gave me all the feels that I had been needing. Interesting characters, Good Side characters, development, Steam and relationship. We were showing their relationship developing and not just told. I stayed up late reading it and then finish it as soon as I woke up. It includes the first chapter of the next book I can hardly wait to start book two. I appreciate the author includes some of the historical events that were happening at the time that influence or are brought up by characters in the book.

[Aleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read. It was fun to read about two alpha characters. Jack (Jacqueline) and Giddy were both headstrong, stubborn, and sexy.

"You look like Artemis," he said.
"It is a look I try to cultivate."

A chance encounter and mistaken identity in a library is the perfect recipe for a forced marriage. Both characters have vowed not to marry, but honor bound and dutiful, Giddy has no choice.

Jack is not the typical female. Sharp tongued and a penchant for weapons, preferably bows, she shocks Giddy at every turn.

It's definitely a clash of wills, with two strong characters and very electric sexual chemistry. I mean it was hot! It's a story about both of these characters discovering each others personalities and traits, in and out of the bedroom. It was evenly paced and well written. With the POVs alternating between Giddy and Jack. Can't wait to read Sabre's story which is next, because she sounds even more headstrong!

[Heather Aksamit · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really just read this because it was recommended to me from a friend who knows the author. :-) But... it is really good! I like Regency romance, but some can be quite dry/boring. This was engaging, had me reading till the end, and already looking for the next in the series. I like the main character Jack, quite a bit. She has interesting hobbies that play into the main story line quite well. I'm looking forward to continuing the series with the next set of couples (Quince & Sabre).

[Kristen · Rating 2 out of 5]

This wasn't for me. A bit too "Harlequin Romance" for my tastes.

[Coco.V]

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[Julie Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Gideon, Earl of Harrington, is kind, honorable, and a bit of a confirmed bachelor who loves having his way with the ladies. Jacqueline "Jack" is a definite tomboy and decidedly happy to remain single. Then as potential scandal and family embarrassment hit them, tossing them together, Gideon does right by Jack and proposes marriage. Will they call it off? Will they be better having known each other? Can they lead each other to happiness? Love the smart, snarky, loving, and fast-pace this book has while winding these characters into your heart. This is a completed story (no cliff hanger), but sets up a quick introduction to the next couple to "cross swords". After all, Jack is a Haberdasher--let not the boys have all the fun! It was brilliantly clever and immensely entertaining.

[Senior · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the Haberdasher Series; Trials of Aretmis, Athena's Ordeal, Fates for Apate and Saving Persephone. The books' blurb described the series well, "In 1805 three little girls decided to create a "boys club" because boys have more fun. Their childhood was filled with sword fighting, horse racing, and archery. Now in 1815 they are all grown up and expected to join Society. Who will marry such independent and deadly misses"?

Each of the Haberdashers plus one bonus woman, hence four books, is strong, independent and interesting. The ways in which they marry and the men they marry are also interesting. There are some improbable plot lines (the most martial of the women rescues her husband from smuggler/kidnappers) but once you accept that these women could exist in 1805, why not? These books are written by and for modern women so who am I to quibble when the ride is so much fun?

[Sarah Jensen]

Book Review: Trials of Artemis (The Haberdashers, #1) by Sue London

Overview
Sue London’s Trials of Artemis marks the beginning of The Haberdashers series, engaging readers with its blend of historical romance and adventure set against the backdrop of early 19th-century England. The narrative centers around three young girls who form a secret society, aiming to challenge societal norms and pursue their ambitions in a male-dominated world. London weaves a tale that is as much about personal growth and friendship as it is about romance, making it a compelling introduction to the series.

Key Themes
Empowerment and Agency: A central theme of Trials of Artemis is the empowerment of women in a patriarchal society. The formation of the “boys club” by the three protagonists symbolizes their desire to carve out a space for themselves, defying the expectations placed upon them by society. The narrative emphasizes the importance of sisterhood and mutual support as the girls navigate challenges, thereby highlighting themes of female agency and resilience.

Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between the three main characters—each with her distinct personality and struggles—is a crucial element of the story. London skillfully illustrates how their friendship provides strength and encouragement, allowing them to face societal pressures together. This theme resonates with readers, showcasing the transformative power of loyal companionship in personal development and overcoming obstacles.

Romantic Intrigue: While the story is rooted in the girls’ adventures and aspirations, it also incorporates romantic elements that contribute to character development. The romantic interactions serve not only to add depth to the protagonist’s experiences but also to explore the complexities of love and attraction within the constraints of their social environment. This interplay of romance and friendship enriches the narrative, appealing to fans of both genres.

Social Commentary: Through its portrayal of the characters’ struggles against societal norms, Trials of Artemis offers a critique of the rigid class and gender structures of the time. London’s narrative invites readers to reflect on the historical context of women’s roles and the limited opportunities available to them, positioning the protagonists’ journey as a subtle commentary on the need for social change.

Coming-of-Age Journey: The novel serves as a coming-of-age story, tracing the characters’ growth as they confront various trials and tribulations. As they navigate their desires, ambitions, and the complexities of their relationships, readers witness their evolution from girls with dreams to empowered young women ready to assert their place in the world. This theme of growth is relatable and compelling, making the characters’ journeys resonate with a broad audience.

Conclusion
Trials of Artemis is a captivating start to The Haberdashers series, offering readers a delightful mix of adventure, romance, and social commentary. Sue London effectively captures the spirit of resilience and empowerment among young women in a historical context, making the story both engaging and thought-provoking.

This book is highly recommended for readers who enjoy historical romance and stories that celebrate female friendships and empowerment. Through its rich character development and themes of agency and loyalty, Trials of Artemis sets the stage for a promising series that challenges societal conventions and highlights the strength of women pursuing their dreams.

[Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

terrific Historical Romance

I really liked this Historical Romance 🥰
I am going to read more of this writer, particularly the Haberdasher Books. I loved the main female character in this story and I liked her husband quite a lot too. Nice HEA.

[Irene S. Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed

Enjoyed the relationship between the characters. It left you wanting to know more about the other characters in the book. While I enjoy that in a series, I like each book to stand completely on its own. I felt there were just a few to many unresolved matters. But a good read.

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked the main character. The love interest was the issue: petulant, obnoxious, deliberately antagonizing and scapegoating his new wife; slut-shaming her, even though she was completely inexperienced before they got married; and swings wildly between being nice for a very brief period and then being a total jerk (like being so grossly possessive that he hits her childhood friend for hugging her). But the most inexcusable part: a man who says that dogs would make better voters than women, and doesn't understand why his wife might be offended and hurt at that for weeks, and doesn't have a giant long grovel at the end of it, is not an admirable love interest in any way shape or form. Especially since he then changes his mind in the course of literally a paragraph of dialogue from his wife, so much that he plans to co-sponsor a bill for women's rights. Is it true that a lot of men of the time would have thought that? Probably. But if you're going to write about a group of women who have had a secret fight club for years, and who follow the stock market, are far more educated than most women of the time would have been and whatever else, surely you can also imagine a man who transcends the misogyny of the day as well.

[Lu · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and it's exploration of themes of the day, all of which seemed well researched. Why oh why then, should the key premise for the books (a boys club formed by three girls) hang on the faulty assumption that haberdashiery has the same meaning to the rest of the world (including England where the story is actually set) that it does in America? It doesn't!
In England haberdashiery refers to buttons and these days zippers. Small sewing items not mens gloves and scarves. As soon as I read this I thought, this is going to be a big pile of poorly researched drivel! And it isn't. Both books in this series so far are well written and superior to many others in this genre. They are wonderfully free of the usual cliches and a breath of fresh air. Perhaps the author could give a different version for the rest of the world because at the moment this is a jarring blow at the front of the book.

[Vero · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very well written regency romance.

The story was well thought out, it had witty dialogues and what really made this one of the better regency romances, it had character development.

I very much liked Jack, the young lady, who found herself in a compromising situation and needed to marry the gentleman involved. Gideon was also a very good character. He was no flawless hero, but had an edge and both were not mysteriously in love suddenly and all was wonderful.

The story centered on how they got to know each other, discovered good and bad things about each other. And how they fell in love for each other.

I very much liked how Jack evolved in the course of this book. How she decided to be smart about her marriage and not let hurt feelings get in her way.

A really enjoyable read.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful

The "Trails of Artemis" is a delightful, powerful tale that will thrill fans of Historical Romance.
Fast paced. Well written with engaging, talented and most interesting characters. The storyline is powerful, intriguing and compelling. The H/H will tug at your heartstrings. I cannot wait read the rest of this series. A very enjoyable and satisfying read, to be sure. Fans of romance, Regency era Romance, fast paced stories and interesting characters will adore this new and sure to be exciting series. Strongly recommended! A keeper!!

*Personal Buy*

Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR

[Michele Lacroix · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book and never wanted to close it. I loved the characters of Gideon and Jack, Jacqueline. I loved how they met and how they learned to love each other. I didn't expect the villain to be the villain, or villains.

[sarah guffy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intriguing.

Good reading. A strong won.an and a hard headed man. True love can go a long way. I love to read about the early years with grand ball rooms, servants, and all the galas. Very relaxing reading but will keep you interested.

[LadyAlexandrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this one gave 4.5 stars.