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The Cabot Sisters #1
The Trouble With Honor
Desperate times call for daring measures as Honor Cabot, the eldest stepdaughter of the wealthy Earl of Beckington, awaits her family's ruin. Upon the earl's death she and her sisters stand to lose the luxury of their grand home - and their place on the pedestal of society - to their stepbrother and his social-climbing fiancée. Forced to act quickly, Honor makes a devil's bargain with the only rogue in London who can seduce her stepbrother's fiancée out of the Cabots' lives for good.
An illegitimate son of a duke, George Easton was born of scandal and grows his fortune through dangerous risks. But now he and Honor are dabbling in a perilous dance of seduction that puts her reputation and his jaded heart on the line. And as unexpected desire threatens to change the rules of their secret game, the stakes may become too high even for a notorious gambler and a determined, free-spirited debutante to handle.
An illegitimate son of a duke, George Easton was born of scandal and grows his fortune through dangerous risks. But now he and Honor are dabbling in a perilous dance of seduction that puts her reputation and his jaded heart on the line. And as unexpected desire threatens to change the rules of their secret game, the stakes may become too high even for a notorious gambler and a determined, free-spirited debutante to handle.
378 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 28, 2014
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About the author
Julia London
190 books3,141 followersJulia London is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of more than two dozen romantic fiction novels. She is the author of the popular historical romance series, the Cabot Sisters, including The Trouble with Honor, The Devil Takes a Bride, and The Scoundrel and the Debutante. She is also the author of several contemporary romances, including Homecoming Ranch, Return to Homecoming Ranch, and The Perfect Homecoming.
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 423 reviews
February 16, 2015
2.5 stars
I was very excited to see The Trouble with Honor on NetGalley's list, since Julia London is one of my favorite authors. I've read enough books of hers to know that her heroines are often stubborn and immature, so it did not come as a surprise that Honor fit that description. But usually the hero, the plot and more importantly Mrs London's knack of describing a large part of the story through the hero's POV manage to save the story and turn her books into keepers for me. In this case however, there were too many things that went wrong, and I believe a major one was the plot itself.
The story starts with the heroine, Honor, a favorite of the ton, managing to convince some friends to escort her into an infamous game club and even play a game of cards or two. There she meets George Easton, bastard son of a duke, who's the only one to accept her bet. After that scene, the focus moves to the heroine's house. There are four sisters, Honor being the eldest, followed by Grace and then Prudence and Mercy who haven't come out yet. They're living with their mother's second husband -an earl- and his son, who are both very generous and loving. Unfortunately, the earl is dying and his son plans to marry a woman the heroine's not very fond of. That woman apparently plans to have all of them removed from the earl's house in London and curtail their shopping expenses. But most importantly, the heroine's mother is sick herself, so how will they take care of her without the earl's money? So, the heroine concocts a plan, to have the hero seducing the stepbrother's fiance, so that the wedding won't take place and they can have a reprieve while he finds a new woman to love and marry. The hero reluctantly agrees, even though he points out to the heroine how selfish she's being and that the best solution would be for her to marry (apparently she's very sought after) so that her husband can take care of her mother and sisters, and the story begins.
You can probably see the problems with this book right now. The heroine is indeed as selfish as it gets, since she refuses to sacrifice her freedom for her family, but has absolutely no qualms about destroying the happiness of a stepbrother she cares for. The final nail on the heroine's coffin comes from her arch-nemesis, the stepbrother's fiance. As it becomes apparent in the book, she's not evil at all, but a much more mature, intelligent, wise and kind woman than the heroine could ever hope to be.
They were also many discrepancies in the plot:
-The heroine is the daughter of a bishop. I can't be sure about that, but I believe that in that era it would not be allowed to a married man to become a bishop.
-The mother's condition also appears throughout the book to be the main reason the sisters should stay in the earl's house and continue using his money, but is flimsy at best. As the old earl is still alive, wealthy and in love of his wife, I can't for the life of me understand why he couldn't and wouldn't assign a large enough sum for her and her daughters, to keep them financially independant.
-The heroine, visits an infamous game club, is often provoking and impetuous, dances with a famous rake and bastard in balls, yet her reputation remains impeccable.
-And how on earth, is the stepdaughter of an earl and a nobody -who will obviously turn back into a pumkin after the earl's death- considered one of the ton's finest gems and sought after debutants? Of course twice at least it's pointed out that she wasn't considered good enough to marry above a lord's second or third son, even though her dance card was always full at balls, as she proudly boasts. Yet the hero kept thinking all the time how far above him she was, while she was desperate to go on living such an empty, meaningless life. I do believe most intelligent, mature women would hate to be considered good enough to flirt and dance but not marriage material; apparently Honor's not one of them.
While in most London's books the hero manages to save the day, this didn't happen here. George Easton seemed a good enough man, but his acceptance of Honor's ridiculous scheme left a dark mark on him too. I also missed being inside his head more; I believe with such an immature heroine, that could make a huge difference. And finally, I have to comment on the lack of any chemistry between him and Honor. While they were nice together, both confident and bold characters, I had to read about their mutual attraction rather than feel it. At least it wasn't as hard to believe they cared trully for each other, so this was not yet another case of lust mistaken for love.
However, when all's said and done, I love Mrs London's writing and this was an eye-rolling but engaging story. If you want to read a light historical romance and aren't much interested in details, you could definitely do much worse than picking this up. I look forward to Grace's story when it comes up, as she at least seems to have a head on her shoulders and is not an air-brained beauty.
ARC provided by NetGalley
I was very excited to see The Trouble with Honor on NetGalley's list, since Julia London is one of my favorite authors. I've read enough books of hers to know that her heroines are often stubborn and immature, so it did not come as a surprise that Honor fit that description. But usually the hero, the plot and more importantly Mrs London's knack of describing a large part of the story through the hero's POV manage to save the story and turn her books into keepers for me. In this case however, there were too many things that went wrong, and I believe a major one was the plot itself.
The story starts with the heroine, Honor, a favorite of the ton, managing to convince some friends to escort her into an infamous game club and even play a game of cards or two. There she meets George Easton, bastard son of a duke, who's the only one to accept her bet. After that scene, the focus moves to the heroine's house. There are four sisters, Honor being the eldest, followed by Grace and then Prudence and Mercy who haven't come out yet. They're living with their mother's second husband -an earl- and his son, who are both very generous and loving. Unfortunately, the earl is dying and his son plans to marry a woman the heroine's not very fond of. That woman apparently plans to have all of them removed from the earl's house in London and curtail their shopping expenses. But most importantly, the heroine's mother is sick herself, so how will they take care of her without the earl's money? So, the heroine concocts a plan, to have the hero seducing the stepbrother's fiance, so that the wedding won't take place and they can have a reprieve while he finds a new woman to love and marry. The hero reluctantly agrees, even though he points out to the heroine how selfish she's being and that the best solution would be for her to marry (apparently she's very sought after) so that her husband can take care of her mother and sisters, and the story begins.
You can probably see the problems with this book right now. The heroine is indeed as selfish as it gets, since she refuses to sacrifice her freedom for her family, but has absolutely no qualms about destroying the happiness of a stepbrother she cares for. The final nail on the heroine's coffin comes from her arch-nemesis, the stepbrother's fiance. As it becomes apparent in the book, she's not evil at all, but a much more mature, intelligent, wise and kind woman than the heroine could ever hope to be.
They were also many discrepancies in the plot:
-The heroine is the daughter of a bishop. I can't be sure about that, but I believe that in that era it would not be allowed to a married man to become a bishop.
-The mother's condition also appears throughout the book to be the main reason the sisters should stay in the earl's house and continue using his money, but is flimsy at best. As the old earl is still alive, wealthy and in love of his wife, I can't for the life of me understand why he couldn't and wouldn't assign a large enough sum for her and her daughters, to keep them financially independant.
-The heroine, visits an infamous game club, is often provoking and impetuous, dances with a famous rake and bastard in balls, yet her reputation remains impeccable.
-And how on earth, is the stepdaughter of an earl and a nobody -who will obviously turn back into a pumkin after the earl's death- considered one of the ton's finest gems and sought after debutants? Of course twice at least it's pointed out that she wasn't considered good enough to marry above a lord's second or third son, even though her dance card was always full at balls, as she proudly boasts. Yet the hero kept thinking all the time how far above him she was, while she was desperate to go on living such an empty, meaningless life. I do believe most intelligent, mature women would hate to be considered good enough to flirt and dance but not marriage material; apparently Honor's not one of them.
While in most London's books the hero manages to save the day, this didn't happen here. George Easton seemed a good enough man, but his acceptance of Honor's ridiculous scheme left a dark mark on him too. I also missed being inside his head more; I believe with such an immature heroine, that could make a huge difference. And finally, I have to comment on the lack of any chemistry between him and Honor. While they were nice together, both confident and bold characters, I had to read about their mutual attraction rather than feel it. At least it wasn't as hard to believe they cared trully for each other, so this was not yet another case of lust mistaken for love.
However, when all's said and done, I love Mrs London's writing and this was an eye-rolling but engaging story. If you want to read a light historical romance and aren't much interested in details, you could definitely do much worse than picking this up. I look forward to Grace's story when it comes up, as she at least seems to have a head on her shoulders and is not an air-brained beauty.
ARC provided by NetGalley
February 24, 2016
If you want to read about heroines who are unapologetic and bold, I direct you to Kelly Bowen's Duke of My Heart.
If you want to read about heroines who would do anything for their family and livelihoods, I direct you to Loretta Chase's Silk is for Seduction or Elizabeth Hoyt's Duke of Midnight
If you want to read about heroines who have real courage, Lorraine Heath's When the Duke was Wicked or Courtney Milan's Once Upon a Marquess .
Just don't read this book.
I don't care about characters being likable or decent, I just want characters to be well written and at the very least, not petty brats.
In the historical romance genre, I generally have a VERY high tolerance for both heroines and heroes, where others may call heroines naive or stupid or heroes being assholes (a majority of them usually are, let's be real), I usually tend to give heroines the benefit of the doubt at least that they are the product of their era.
So this is TRULY a first for me that I've come to truly dislike, probably hate, a 'heroine' in a historical romance novel.
Honor Cabot is the stepdaughter of the Earl of Beckington along with her 3 other younger sisters Grace, Prudence and Mercy. Her mother is suffering from dementia and the Earl is sickly. Honor's stepbrother, Augustine, the heir, is engaged to Monica Hargrove, and Honor believes that Monica will throw her, her sisters and mother out when she marries Augustine.
Honor believes this because of a petty feud between the two girls since they were children, where their dance instructor favored Monica over Honor. Monica dislikes Honor because she feels like Honor has everything and is popular, pretty and charming. It is honestly the most petty, frivolous, stupid feud ever. Monica isn't so bad actually, because she is never really that developed a character, but we do get enough on her that we know she isn't the monster Honor built her up in her head to be.
So Honor concocts a truly stupid and downright cruel plan to "divert" Monica away from marrying her stepbrother by getting the 'hero' George Easton to perhaps lure her away. Never mind that the plan is pretty stupid, doesn't solve anything long-term and will probably fail, it is born out of such selfish, cowardly and cruel reasons.
1) Augustine, while not the brightest bulb, is actually kind to Honor and her sisters
2) Augustine and Monica truly care for each other
3) Why couldn't Honor speak to Augustine about her fears and talk to him like a functioning, normal adult. It is not like Augustine is an unreasonable monster.
Now Honor's sister Grace, says that one of the ways in which they can continue to care for their mother properly is if they marry well and then their husbands would take care of their sisters and mother. Honor doesn't want to do this. I can understand this bit--- she doesn't want to lose her one shred of freedom by becoming a wife. But at the same time, you aren't that convinced about this because Honor is far more focused on plotting against Monica as well as flouncing around in her dresses and spitefully buying bonnets Monica wants. George, the hero, points out that Honor just wants to upkeep her privileged lifestyle, and honestly? I don't think he's that far off. I never really see Honor doing any hands on work to care for her mother. Grace seems to be the only one giving a shit about their mother. This is all in the text by the way, I was wondering if I was being too hard on Honor, so I made the point of highlighting passages for myself that showed that Grace was the only one who actually looks out for their mother.
So is Honor scheming out of desperate filial piety towards her mother? No shit she is not.
What is happening here is a bitchy, spiteful little plan. Never mind that I don't really care about Monica because she's only marginally less petty than Honor. We KNOW that Monica cares about Augustine and wants to marry him and vice versa. It's pretty gross for a sister to mess with her brother's life like that for such selfish reasons. Her only option is not only to marry (and lose her freedom). There were other things she could have tried to do before jumping down this path.
Aside from Honor's dreadful personality and lack of character or principles, or common sense, for that matter, she and George also have no romantic chemistry and there is no real development or pacing to their relationship. It is very poorly developed and written. They have plenty of sexual chemistry, and they have very sexy scenes on balconies and other semi public places that are very hot, but because they lack romantic chemistry, none of these scenes truly hold any impact or carry any weight in the development of their relationship.
George is also very boring and uninteresting. Conceptually, he seems to be a gem of a historical romance hero, one where you can make him all intense and brooding as he is the bastard son of a Duke and has a massive chip on his shoulder because society shuns him. Also, even though Honor is but a stepdaughter of an Earl and cannot hope to marry first sons, she is also 'of the ton' and George has angst that she is 'above him'. Typical stuff, but still, can be mined for emotional angst right? No. This never happens. George whines a little here and there in his head about how he can never have Honor, that he can never escape from the shadow of his past, but that's pretty much where it stays. He is a stagnant character. And even up to the end of the book he keeps going on and on and on about how no one would let them marry because of his status. Does he try to fight for their love? No. At least I will give Honor that she fights with him for their love. Oh, and he gambles. Gambling is one of the worst, most deplorable vices to me. It ruins lives and families and meanwhile towards the end of the book, George gambles, IN FRUSTRATION, to win her back! Like that has EVER worked. (Also, one of his first encounters with Honor, he pretty much feels her up without permission and that is just gross and wrong. )
Julia London keeps going on and on about how the two of them are so perfect for each other because they are "bold", "unafraid", "unapologetic", "brave", "risk-taking" and that they don't care what society thinks about them but I don't think she knows what all that really means. Honor is not bold or brave just because she goes around making out with men at public places or playing cards like a man. What she is doing is really very selfish, squandering money she could have saved to help her mother, while also risking her sisters' reputations and ruining their chances and prospects. Prudence and Mercy are not even yet out in society. Oh and another thing--- besides the fact that Mercy has very macabre tendencies and Prudence is very proper, we also never really get a sense of who the other sisters are, certainly not who Grace is even though Grace is the sister that features most, nor do we get the sense of sisterhood or familial relationship between the sisters or their mother.
After all this, I actually felt that George and Honor were perfect for each other, even if I couldn't tell at all that they're in love. They're both uninteresting, mean-spirited, selfish, silly people that deserve each other.
If you want to read about heroines who would do anything for their family and livelihoods, I direct you to Loretta Chase's Silk is for Seduction or Elizabeth Hoyt's Duke of Midnight
If you want to read about heroines who have real courage, Lorraine Heath's When the Duke was Wicked or Courtney Milan's Once Upon a Marquess .
Just don't read this book.
I don't care about characters being likable or decent, I just want characters to be well written and at the very least, not petty brats.
In the historical romance genre, I generally have a VERY high tolerance for both heroines and heroes, where others may call heroines naive or stupid or heroes being assholes (a majority of them usually are, let's be real), I usually tend to give heroines the benefit of the doubt at least that they are the product of their era.
So this is TRULY a first for me that I've come to truly dislike, probably hate, a 'heroine' in a historical romance novel.
Honor Cabot is the stepdaughter of the Earl of Beckington along with her 3 other younger sisters Grace, Prudence and Mercy. Her mother is suffering from dementia and the Earl is sickly. Honor's stepbrother, Augustine, the heir, is engaged to Monica Hargrove, and Honor believes that Monica will throw her, her sisters and mother out when she marries Augustine.
Honor believes this because of a petty feud between the two girls since they were children, where their dance instructor favored Monica over Honor. Monica dislikes Honor because she feels like Honor has everything and is popular, pretty and charming. It is honestly the most petty, frivolous, stupid feud ever. Monica isn't so bad actually, because she is never really that developed a character, but we do get enough on her that we know she isn't the monster Honor built her up in her head to be.
So Honor concocts a truly stupid and downright cruel plan to "divert" Monica away from marrying her stepbrother by getting the 'hero' George Easton to perhaps lure her away. Never mind that the plan is pretty stupid, doesn't solve anything long-term and will probably fail, it is born out of such selfish, cowardly and cruel reasons.
1) Augustine, while not the brightest bulb, is actually kind to Honor and her sisters
2) Augustine and Monica truly care for each other
3) Why couldn't Honor speak to Augustine about her fears and talk to him like a functioning, normal adult. It is not like Augustine is an unreasonable monster.
Now Honor's sister Grace, says that one of the ways in which they can continue to care for their mother properly is if they marry well and then their husbands would take care of their sisters and mother. Honor doesn't want to do this. I can understand this bit--- she doesn't want to lose her one shred of freedom by becoming a wife. But at the same time, you aren't that convinced about this because Honor is far more focused on plotting against Monica as well as flouncing around in her dresses and spitefully buying bonnets Monica wants. George, the hero, points out that Honor just wants to upkeep her privileged lifestyle, and honestly? I don't think he's that far off. I never really see Honor doing any hands on work to care for her mother. Grace seems to be the only one giving a shit about their mother. This is all in the text by the way, I was wondering if I was being too hard on Honor, so I made the point of highlighting passages for myself that showed that Grace was the only one who actually looks out for their mother.
So is Honor scheming out of desperate filial piety towards her mother? No shit she is not.
What is happening here is a bitchy, spiteful little plan. Never mind that I don't really care about Monica because she's only marginally less petty than Honor. We KNOW that Monica cares about Augustine and wants to marry him and vice versa. It's pretty gross for a sister to mess with her brother's life like that for such selfish reasons. Her only option is not only to marry (and lose her freedom). There were other things she could have tried to do before jumping down this path.
Aside from Honor's dreadful personality and lack of character or principles, or common sense, for that matter, she and George also have no romantic chemistry and there is no real development or pacing to their relationship. It is very poorly developed and written. They have plenty of sexual chemistry, and they have very sexy scenes on balconies and other semi public places that are very hot, but because they lack romantic chemistry, none of these scenes truly hold any impact or carry any weight in the development of their relationship.
George is also very boring and uninteresting. Conceptually, he seems to be a gem of a historical romance hero, one where you can make him all intense and brooding as he is the bastard son of a Duke and has a massive chip on his shoulder because society shuns him. Also, even though Honor is but a stepdaughter of an Earl and cannot hope to marry first sons, she is also 'of the ton' and George has angst that she is 'above him'. Typical stuff, but still, can be mined for emotional angst right? No. This never happens. George whines a little here and there in his head about how he can never have Honor, that he can never escape from the shadow of his past, but that's pretty much where it stays. He is a stagnant character. And even up to the end of the book he keeps going on and on and on about how no one would let them marry because of his status. Does he try to fight for their love? No. At least I will give Honor that she fights with him for their love. Oh, and he gambles. Gambling is one of the worst, most deplorable vices to me. It ruins lives and families and meanwhile towards the end of the book, George gambles, IN FRUSTRATION, to win her back! Like that has EVER worked. (Also, one of his first encounters with Honor, he pretty much feels her up without permission and that is just gross and wrong. )
Julia London keeps going on and on about how the two of them are so perfect for each other because they are "bold", "unafraid", "unapologetic", "brave", "risk-taking" and that they don't care what society thinks about them but I don't think she knows what all that really means. Honor is not bold or brave just because she goes around making out with men at public places or playing cards like a man. What she is doing is really very selfish, squandering money she could have saved to help her mother, while also risking her sisters' reputations and ruining their chances and prospects. Prudence and Mercy are not even yet out in society. Oh and another thing--- besides the fact that Mercy has very macabre tendencies and Prudence is very proper, we also never really get a sense of who the other sisters are, certainly not who Grace is even though Grace is the sister that features most, nor do we get the sense of sisterhood or familial relationship between the sisters or their mother.
After all this, I actually felt that George and Honor were perfect for each other, even if I couldn't tell at all that they're in love. They're both uninteresting, mean-spirited, selfish, silly people that deserve each other.
July 13, 2018
2 Estrellas y porque ha mejorado algo la segunda mitad del libro, si no, se habría quedado con una, porque este libro es malo. Parece que durante sus últimas publicaciones Julia London se ha acomodado a lo fácil, sus novelas no son como las de antaño, y buscando la originalidad por no crear siempre lo mismo han perdido calidad.
La historia es simple y bastante llana, y la verdad es que mejor llevado y con una protagonista más atractiva, habría sido mucho mejor, pero la autora se ha pasado bastante.
Honor Cabot es la mayor de cuatro hermanas. Al quedar viuda su madre, que estaba casada con un párroco, tuvo la suerte de desposarse con un conde, que la mantuvo a ella y a sus hijas como si fueran propias y las regaló todas las facilidades para adaptarse a la vida de la aristocracia. Pero el conde se está muriendo y el estilo de vida de las Cabot peligra. Su hermanastro, que pese a ser un personaje bastante entrañable es débil, va a contraer nupcias con la enemiga declarada de Honor, y ésta debe hacer algo para que el enlace no llegue a su fin, y ellas no pierdan su status.
Sí, para empezar los motivos de Honor son deplorables, egoístas, mezquinos y deshonestos. Honor está convencida de que una vez Monica se case con Augustine, las echarán de su casa a las cuatro y a su madre y no tendrán dónde ni de qué vivir. Para más inri, Honor no quiere oír hablar de matrimonio debido a un desengaño que sufrió dos años antes. Así que para salir del atolladero, se le ocurre el plan más espantoso que podría maquinar alguien: separar a una pareja que se quiere. Y para esto, necesita al protagonista.
George Easton es el hijo bastardo no reconocido de un duque. Aunque no vive como un aristócrata, es un hombre que arriesga grandes fortunas en el comercio y en el juego, y también en los dormitorios de las damas, de ahí su fama de libertino. Una noche, Honor lo conoce en un garito de mala muerte jugando a las cartas ¡Sí, no me digáis cómo se las apaña una dama supuestamente bien educada para escapar de casa e irse a un lugar de mala reputación a jugar a las cartas! Eh ahí la originalidad de la autora, que por no saber cómo conocerlos, se le ocurre lo más ridículo e inverosímil.
Desde el principio Honor está convencida de que para romper el compromiso de su hermanastro, necesita a un reputado libertino para que seduzca a Monica y quitársela de en medio, y su presa es nada menos que George Easton. Pero no, no va a ser fácil, porque George tiene principios y conoce de sobra los motivos deshonestos de Honor, entonces ¿Cómo puede enamorarse de ella? Si me preguntáis, no tengo ni pajolera idea, porque en ningún momento he entendido que éste muchacho acabe enamorado de ella.
La cosa es que por increíble que parezca George la seguirá el juego, y no será demasiado fácil, pues Monica ni es estúpida ni es descocada; y si me preguntáis mi opinión, me ha caído mucho mejor Monica que Honor.
No voy a desvelar mucho más porque es un libro que se lee rápido y fácil, y no voy a explicar todo el argumento, solo que las cosas seguirán su ritmo y se arreglarán a su debido tiempo. Como he dicho, la primera mitad del libro se me ha hecho cuesta arriba porque no he soportado a la protagonista; pero por suerte la segunda mitad, aunque más monótona mejora, pues es el momento en que se va desarrollando el romance, y esto admito que lo sabe crear muy bien Julia London.
Aún así no es una novela que haya hecho mella en mí, el romance ha subido puntos, y la originalidad le ha bajado calidad, porque ni es creíble ni es bueno. Me da mucha rabia porque las primeras novelas que leí de Julia London tenían otro encanto, más calidad, aunque unas me gustaran y otras no, pero desde la publicación de Hadley Green ha caído en picado. De verdad que espero y muy mucho, que los siguientes libros de ésta serie mejoren, por lo menos el de Grace, que algo se ha dejado ver en éste libro y me ha dejado con muchas ganas.
La historia es simple y bastante llana, y la verdad es que mejor llevado y con una protagonista más atractiva, habría sido mucho mejor, pero la autora se ha pasado bastante.
Honor Cabot es la mayor de cuatro hermanas. Al quedar viuda su madre, que estaba casada con un párroco, tuvo la suerte de desposarse con un conde, que la mantuvo a ella y a sus hijas como si fueran propias y las regaló todas las facilidades para adaptarse a la vida de la aristocracia. Pero el conde se está muriendo y el estilo de vida de las Cabot peligra. Su hermanastro, que pese a ser un personaje bastante entrañable es débil, va a contraer nupcias con la enemiga declarada de Honor, y ésta debe hacer algo para que el enlace no llegue a su fin, y ellas no pierdan su status.
Sí, para empezar los motivos de Honor son deplorables, egoístas, mezquinos y deshonestos. Honor está convencida de que una vez Monica se case con Augustine, las echarán de su casa a las cuatro y a su madre y no tendrán dónde ni de qué vivir. Para más inri, Honor no quiere oír hablar de matrimonio debido a un desengaño que sufrió dos años antes. Así que para salir del atolladero, se le ocurre el plan más espantoso que podría maquinar alguien: separar a una pareja que se quiere. Y para esto, necesita al protagonista.
George Easton es el hijo bastardo no reconocido de un duque. Aunque no vive como un aristócrata, es un hombre que arriesga grandes fortunas en el comercio y en el juego, y también en los dormitorios de las damas, de ahí su fama de libertino. Una noche, Honor lo conoce en un garito de mala muerte jugando a las cartas ¡Sí, no me digáis cómo se las apaña una dama supuestamente bien educada para escapar de casa e irse a un lugar de mala reputación a jugar a las cartas! Eh ahí la originalidad de la autora, que por no saber cómo conocerlos, se le ocurre lo más ridículo e inverosímil.
Desde el principio Honor está convencida de que para romper el compromiso de su hermanastro, necesita a un reputado libertino para que seduzca a Monica y quitársela de en medio, y su presa es nada menos que George Easton. Pero no, no va a ser fácil, porque George tiene principios y conoce de sobra los motivos deshonestos de Honor, entonces ¿Cómo puede enamorarse de ella? Si me preguntáis, no tengo ni pajolera idea, porque en ningún momento he entendido que éste muchacho acabe enamorado de ella.
La cosa es que por increíble que parezca George la seguirá el juego, y no será demasiado fácil, pues Monica ni es estúpida ni es descocada; y si me preguntáis mi opinión, me ha caído mucho mejor Monica que Honor.
No voy a desvelar mucho más porque es un libro que se lee rápido y fácil, y no voy a explicar todo el argumento, solo que las cosas seguirán su ritmo y se arreglarán a su debido tiempo. Como he dicho, la primera mitad del libro se me ha hecho cuesta arriba porque no he soportado a la protagonista; pero por suerte la segunda mitad, aunque más monótona mejora, pues es el momento en que se va desarrollando el romance, y esto admito que lo sabe crear muy bien Julia London.
Aún así no es una novela que haya hecho mella en mí, el romance ha subido puntos, y la originalidad le ha bajado calidad, porque ni es creíble ni es bueno. Me da mucha rabia porque las primeras novelas que leí de Julia London tenían otro encanto, más calidad, aunque unas me gustaran y otras no, pero desde la publicación de Hadley Green ha caído en picado. De verdad que espero y muy mucho, que los siguientes libros de ésta serie mejoren, por lo menos el de Grace, que algo se ha dejado ver en éste libro y me ha dejado con muchas ganas.
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January 13, 2015
4.5 stars
I fell in love. Not with the hero, but with the heroine! She stole the show, with a quick sweep and BOOM, I was laughing like a lunatic, deep in the night. Truly, believe me: the story was captivating, the hero a classical non-peer rake with enough issues to make him into a classical tortured-seducer-alpha. But Honor? I love that woman! She was weird, funny, sure of herself without being TSTL. Quirky, always taking herself not too seriously, and when she fell for our stubborn, stubborn hero, she didn't let herself be swayed, no. Determined to get her man, with me thinking: go for it, girl!
Please read this book if you want to be swept away by Honor Cabot, too. She's worth it.
I fell in love. Not with the hero, but with the heroine! She stole the show, with a quick sweep and BOOM, I was laughing like a lunatic, deep in the night. Truly, believe me: the story was captivating, the hero a classical non-peer rake with enough issues to make him into a classical tortured-seducer-alpha. But Honor? I love that woman! She was weird, funny, sure of herself without being TSTL. Quirky, always taking herself not too seriously, and when she fell for our stubborn, stubborn hero, she didn't let herself be swayed, no. Determined to get her man, with me thinking: go for it, girl!
Please read this book if you want to be swept away by Honor Cabot, too. She's worth it.
October 11, 2015
La novela ha empezado muy bien. Una escena de lo más inusual. Está claro por la sinopsis que estamos ante una protagonista nada usual. Me gustan, pero en este caso a Julia London se le ha ido la mano. Demasiadas salidas de las normas sociales, sin pensar en las consecuencias y sin reparar en lo importante de lo que se estaba haciendo.
Paradójicamente el que parece tener mas "seso" en la historia es el supuesto crápula y libertino.
Le ha faltado profundidad en otros aspectos.
No sé, no quiero pensar que estoy ante unas publicaciones más ligeras
Paradójicamente el que parece tener mas "seso" en la historia es el supuesto crápula y libertino.
Le ha faltado profundidad en otros aspectos.
No sé, no quiero pensar que estoy ante unas publicaciones más ligeras
October 2, 2019
Quando ho iniziato questo romanzo, dopo aver leggiucchiato la trama, mi aspettavo ben altro, forse la solita serie leggera sulle debuttanti acchiappa-mariti nobili: posso quindi affermare fin da subito che sono invece stata piacevolmente sorpresa da una storica più amara che dolce, ricca di profondità.
L'inizio è peraltro delizioso e ricco di brio: mentre sta godendosi una serata in una bisca frequentata da ricchi, George Easton, giovane benestante che si è fatto da solo, osteggiato da tutti in quanto figlio illegittimo di un duca (nonché nipote bastardo di un re), si trova a fronteggiare una partita con Honor Cabot, una delle quattro figliastre del ricco conte di Beckington.
E impara a sue spese che la bionda fanciulla con la sua retina di monete ha un carattere di ghiaccio e il giusto sangue freddo per non farsi irretire.
Al di là delle apparenze, George e Honor non corrispondono affatto agli stereotipi di libertino e debuttante ochetta romantica.
Lui, come detto, vive ai margini della nobiltà, ma ritenuto quasi invisibile a dispetto dei soldi, sempre sul punto di precipitare in disgrazia; Honor ha sinora snobbato le proposte matrimoniali, godendosi il lusso e una vita viziata, però ugualmente in scadenza: non appena il patrigno morirà, lei, sua madre e le sue sorelle si troveranno appiedate, alla mercé della bontà del nuovo conte (e della nuova moglie, ex-amica storica di Honor, determinata a farle scontare ogni singolo dissapore passato).
A un certo punto, in effetti, e nonostante le marachelle e le trappole architettate da Honor, il libro vira verso uno spaccato tutto sommato triste sull'epoca e sulle convenzioni sociali: risulta palpabile la disperazione di queste ragazze, cresciute negli agi, ma in realtà condannate a un destino in cui non possono mantenersi da sole, vivere in autonomia o decidere chi sposarsi, e considerate al contempo delle sgradevoli zavorre dal resto della famiglia. La povertà, la malattia, la vecchiaia, divengono un'ombra costante sulla vita di giovani donne che balzano dal debutto più radioso al ticchettio dell'orologio che scandisce ogni singola stagione senza proposte matrimoniali e possibili vie di fuga.
Come dicevo, un romanzo molto bello, con un finale per nulla scontato (e in realtà atipico), che mi fa peraltro ben sperare per il prossimo episodio dedicato a Grace.
Un bellissimo inizio di trilogia.
L'inizio è peraltro delizioso e ricco di brio: mentre sta godendosi una serata in una bisca frequentata da ricchi, George Easton, giovane benestante che si è fatto da solo, osteggiato da tutti in quanto figlio illegittimo di un duca (nonché nipote bastardo di un re), si trova a fronteggiare una partita con Honor Cabot, una delle quattro figliastre del ricco conte di Beckington.
E impara a sue spese che la bionda fanciulla con la sua retina di monete ha un carattere di ghiaccio e il giusto sangue freddo per non farsi irretire.
Al di là delle apparenze, George e Honor non corrispondono affatto agli stereotipi di libertino e debuttante ochetta romantica.
Lui, come detto, vive ai margini della nobiltà, ma ritenuto quasi invisibile a dispetto dei soldi, sempre sul punto di precipitare in disgrazia; Honor ha sinora snobbato le proposte matrimoniali, godendosi il lusso e una vita viziata, però ugualmente in scadenza: non appena il patrigno morirà, lei, sua madre e le sue sorelle si troveranno appiedate, alla mercé della bontà del nuovo conte (e della nuova moglie, ex-amica storica di Honor, determinata a farle scontare ogni singolo dissapore passato).
A un certo punto, in effetti, e nonostante le marachelle e le trappole architettate da Honor, il libro vira verso uno spaccato tutto sommato triste sull'epoca e sulle convenzioni sociali: risulta palpabile la disperazione di queste ragazze, cresciute negli agi, ma in realtà condannate a un destino in cui non possono mantenersi da sole, vivere in autonomia o decidere chi sposarsi, e considerate al contempo delle sgradevoli zavorre dal resto della famiglia. La povertà, la malattia, la vecchiaia, divengono un'ombra costante sulla vita di giovani donne che balzano dal debutto più radioso al ticchettio dell'orologio che scandisce ogni singola stagione senza proposte matrimoniali e possibili vie di fuga.
Come dicevo, un romanzo molto bello, con un finale per nulla scontato (e in realtà atipico), che mi fa peraltro ben sperare per il prossimo episodio dedicato a Grace.
Un bellissimo inizio di trilogia.
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March 27, 2016Heroine-hating, yeah, I am totally heroine-hating now.
I give up on this book. I really like Julia London but Honor Cabot invokes some violent feelings in me. What a waste for hero like George Easton. I REALLY like George. How I wish he had a less scheming heroine. Honor Cabot is a selfish spoiled brat who thinks of only herself and her loved ones. She was willing to ruin another woman so that she could continue her lifestyle. However she tried to convince herself and poor George that she did it for her family, I wanted to give her a middle finger and tell her to fxck off because maybe George would choose to believe her in exchange for sex, I am not buying her crxp.
I give up on this book. I really like Julia London but Honor Cabot invokes some violent feelings in me. What a waste for hero like George Easton. I REALLY like George. How I wish he had a less scheming heroine. Honor Cabot is a selfish spoiled brat who thinks of only herself and her loved ones. She was willing to ruin another woman so that she could continue her lifestyle. However she tried to convince herself and poor George that she did it for her family, I wanted to give her a middle finger and tell her to fxck off because maybe George would choose to believe her in exchange for sex, I am not buying her crxp.
March 19, 2021
J'ai beaucoup aimé cette romance historique quoique pas des plus réaliste pour l'époque. Mais les personnages sont attachants quand ils ne sont pas agaçants quand ils ignorent ce qu'ils ressentent. On a droit à une belle morale à la fin, et ça fait plaisir à lire.
Je pense que pour cette romance, c'est quitte ou double. Soit on aime, soit on déteste. Mais j'ai trouvé l'univers assez prenant et suivre une famille comme celle-ci était super. Je ne sais pas si je vais lire la suite de la série, car j'ai peur d'être trop déçue au vu des critiques.
Je pense que pour cette romance, c'est quitte ou double. Soit on aime, soit on déteste. Mais j'ai trouvé l'univers assez prenant et suivre une famille comme celle-ci était super. Je ne sais pas si je vais lire la suite de la série, car j'ai peur d'être trop déçue au vu des critiques.
December 5, 2024
I didn’t like h’s nefarious plans for her to be SIL and her running after him.
Narrator, Rosalyn Landor was good btw.
Narrator, Rosalyn Landor was good btw.
February 4, 2014
A very big thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin HQN for providing me with an ARC of this book.
I know Julia Landon to be a bestselling historical romance author and have shelved her books but The Trouble With Honor is my very first read from this author and definitely do not regret requesting it from Netgalley.
The voice of the characters and style of writing took some getting used to at first, but after that I was gobbling every single word. It was that delicious.
I truly enjoyed reading about Honor and her sisters. They were so well written because readers can already see the individuality of each of the sisters. Before the end of the story, I was already so eager for Grace's (the second Cabot sister) story.
Honor and George's scenes were just great. I really looked forward to their meetings, aside from the sisters' of course. This story doesn't really have an antagonist or a villain. I really detested Monica at first, but towards the end, she wasn't all that bad after all.
All in all, The Trouble With Honor is a highly recommended HR read. *Two thumbs up* d^^b
I know Julia Landon to be a bestselling historical romance author and have shelved her books but The Trouble With Honor is my very first read from this author and definitely do not regret requesting it from Netgalley.
The voice of the characters and style of writing took some getting used to at first, but after that I was gobbling every single word. It was that delicious.
I truly enjoyed reading about Honor and her sisters. They were so well written because readers can already see the individuality of each of the sisters. Before the end of the story, I was already so eager for Grace's (the second Cabot sister) story.
Honor and George's scenes were just great. I really looked forward to their meetings, aside from the sisters' of course. This story doesn't really have an antagonist or a villain. I really detested Monica at first, but towards the end, she wasn't all that bad after all.
All in all, The Trouble With Honor is a highly recommended HR read. *Two thumbs up* d^^b
March 26, 2014
This was fluffy and fun for a while. Honor Cabot is bold and daring for a woman in Regency England. Her stepfather is on his deathbed, her mother is going crazy, and her stepbrother's fiancé is keen to get rid of her. Honor hatches a scheme to get George Easton, notorious rake, to seduce her bro's fiancé. Hmmmm. I wonder what's going to happen???
The problems started in the last third of the book. Honor becomes pathetic. And more pathetic. She throws herself at Mr. Rake again and again, because she just KNOWS that deep down, he's in love with her. It just went on forever, like the author couldn't end it. I wanted to kick Loverboy and Won't Take No Girl in their heads. Hard.
The problems started in the last third of the book. Honor becomes pathetic. And more pathetic. She throws herself at Mr. Rake again and again, because she just KNOWS that deep down, he's in love with her. It just went on forever, like the author couldn't end it. I wanted to kick Loverboy and Won't Take No Girl in their heads. Hard.
June 8, 2016
I loved this book! I loved the relationship between Honor and George and how they teased/argued and eventually fell in love. My favorite type of romance is where the guy needs to be guided along to finally admit defeat and realize that he really can't live without his little lady love. The steamy scenes were written so perfectly too. Other reviewers complained about not buying the romance between the two, I completely bought it. They also complained of Honor being a hard-to-like heroine... I didn't feel that way at all. She was happy, feminine, and bold at times, made mistakes but did not have a problem at all to apologize for whatever mistakes once she realized what was going on.
Read
November 5, 2014Isn't Julia London, like, a super-duper bestselling author? You wouldn't think she would need to send out ads in the mail. The actual mail with an actual, hand-applied postcard stamp (they've gone up to 34 cents, apparently) and not prepaid business postage. Seems like a waste of cents given that I've never read a single book of hers.
How'd you get my address, anyway, Julia London?
How'd you get my address, anyway, Julia London?
June 10, 2025
DNF DNF DNF DNF DNF DNF DNF DNF DNF DNF
I know many readers have dnfd or hated this book because of the MFC. At first, I didn’t get it because I saw Honor as smart, fun, adventurous and lively. Have to admit that I really enjoyed it at the beginning and as I got to know the sorry excuse of a man, George Easton, I was willing to take one for the team and keep reading because I was enthralled by Honor and her carefree journey through life.
Then she came with the most nefarious plan to ask a favour of the MMC and get him to seduce her step brother's betrothed so that, said betrothed won't kick Honor and her sisters and her mother to the curb once she marries the stepbrother.
That was lowly, conniving and petty of her.
First, because her step brother and step dad loved Honor and her sisters and her mother. She could've easily had a heart to heart with her stepbrother and all these stupid machinations would have been avoided.
Second, after having some POVs from her stepbrother's betrothed, I got to know someone kind, decent, respectful who deeply cared for her afianced... I came to love Monica and honestly she became my favourite character in the book. She wouldn't succumb to Easton's flirtations much to his detriment and frustration.
And then.... comes the most digusting, most vulgar, most despicable man in the history of HR. This douchebag brings the term manwhore to a whole new level.
He is a shameless flirt who runs after anything wearing a skirt resembling a horny dog with a wagging tail and a hanging tongue (we'll come back to said tongue in a second). He goes about ballrooms and soirees gawking at "delectable derriers" and gaping at "scandalous" decolletages. He seduces women by constantly touching them, grabbing their wrists, giving them a once over every 5 minutes and stealing kisses. SEXUAL HARRASSEMENT ANYONE 🚨
If he were an old man he'd be called a sick bastard. If he were an ugly man he'd be labeled a pervert. But because he is handsome and intriguing, morally questionable women seek his flirtations and innocent debutantes stay as far away from him as possible.
And then he gives Honor one orgasm and she turns into a besotted fool following him around like a lost puppy. I mean, have some respect woman, you're giving desperate vibes over here 🙋♀️.
Back to the walking talking STD. He prides himself as a man who gives pleasure to women especially in that valley of theirs... Why would anyone in their everloving mind want to be with someone whose mouth has been in dubious places of half of the women in England! That's just so disgusting and 🤢🤢🤢 (the said tongue 👅 aforementioned 👆)
Miss Hargrove glanced at him sidelong. "Perhaps you should have a look about this weekend and set your sights on someone who is more accepting of your attentions." She glanced around and nodded to something over his shoulder. "Miss Peeples has no understanding with anyone."
George didn't even bother to glance at the Peeples girl, "I think her mother would not approve." He was certain of that - he'd enjoyed a brief but passionate affair with Mrs. Peeples a year or so ago. The woman had been frightened of pregnancy and had preferred to please him. Which, George thought, had been pleasant enough once or twice. But he'd discovered he'd rather be the one to do the pleasing.
🤮🤮🤮🔪🔪🔪💀💀💀
He had no reservations or preferences, he pleasured married and widowed, prostitutes and harlots, anyone really who was willing.
Why would anyone want the male version of a prostitute, at least a prostitute made money out of it. He did all the filthy work because he is that cheap. I can’t handle this knucklehead!!!
This has been an atrocious reading experience and suffice to say my first and last attempt at a Julia London book.
WHY DO ALL HR MEN HAVE TO BE FILTHY SCOUNDRELS AND ALL CONTEMPORARY ONES SLIMY MANWHORES... WHY?????
Do women actually give them the time of day in real life!!!!!
I know many readers have dnfd or hated this book because of the MFC. At first, I didn’t get it because I saw Honor as smart, fun, adventurous and lively. Have to admit that I really enjoyed it at the beginning and as I got to know the sorry excuse of a man, George Easton, I was willing to take one for the team and keep reading because I was enthralled by Honor and her carefree journey through life.
Then she came with the most nefarious plan to ask a favour of the MMC and get him to seduce her step brother's betrothed so that, said betrothed won't kick Honor and her sisters and her mother to the curb once she marries the stepbrother.
That was lowly, conniving and petty of her.
First, because her step brother and step dad loved Honor and her sisters and her mother. She could've easily had a heart to heart with her stepbrother and all these stupid machinations would have been avoided.
Second, after having some POVs from her stepbrother's betrothed, I got to know someone kind, decent, respectful who deeply cared for her afianced... I came to love Monica and honestly she became my favourite character in the book. She wouldn't succumb to Easton's flirtations much to his detriment and frustration.
And then.... comes the most digusting, most vulgar, most despicable man in the history of HR. This douchebag brings the term manwhore to a whole new level.
He is a shameless flirt who runs after anything wearing a skirt resembling a horny dog with a wagging tail and a hanging tongue (we'll come back to said tongue in a second). He goes about ballrooms and soirees gawking at "delectable derriers" and gaping at "scandalous" decolletages. He seduces women by constantly touching them, grabbing their wrists, giving them a once over every 5 minutes and stealing kisses. SEXUAL HARRASSEMENT ANYONE 🚨
If he were an old man he'd be called a sick bastard. If he were an ugly man he'd be labeled a pervert. But because he is handsome and intriguing, morally questionable women seek his flirtations and innocent debutantes stay as far away from him as possible.
And then he gives Honor one orgasm and she turns into a besotted fool following him around like a lost puppy. I mean, have some respect woman, you're giving desperate vibes over here 🙋♀️.
Back to the walking talking STD. He prides himself as a man who gives pleasure to women especially in that valley of theirs... Why would anyone in their everloving mind want to be with someone whose mouth has been in dubious places of half of the women in England! That's just so disgusting and 🤢🤢🤢 (the said tongue 👅 aforementioned 👆)
Miss Hargrove glanced at him sidelong. "Perhaps you should have a look about this weekend and set your sights on someone who is more accepting of your attentions." She glanced around and nodded to something over his shoulder. "Miss Peeples has no understanding with anyone."
George didn't even bother to glance at the Peeples girl, "I think her mother would not approve." He was certain of that - he'd enjoyed a brief but passionate affair with Mrs. Peeples a year or so ago. The woman had been frightened of pregnancy and had preferred to please him. Which, George thought, had been pleasant enough once or twice. But he'd discovered he'd rather be the one to do the pleasing.
🤮🤮🤮🔪🔪🔪💀💀💀
He had no reservations or preferences, he pleasured married and widowed, prostitutes and harlots, anyone really who was willing.
Why would anyone want the male version of a prostitute, at least a prostitute made money out of it. He did all the filthy work because he is that cheap. I can’t handle this knucklehead!!!
This has been an atrocious reading experience and suffice to say my first and last attempt at a Julia London book.
WHY DO ALL HR MEN HAVE TO BE FILTHY SCOUNDRELS AND ALL CONTEMPORARY ONES SLIMY MANWHORES... WHY?????
Do women actually give them the time of day in real life!!!!!
May 20, 2021
2'5 ⭐ (un 5/10)
El libro no me ha gustado. Está bien escrito y se lee rápido, pero carece de realidad histórica, mucho toqueteo innecesario y dos protagonistas poco veraces e interesantes para mí.
En relación con el personaje principal masculino, la mayor crítica que le puedo hacer, por muy puritana que pueda sonar al decirlo, es que George me parece excesivamente atrevido para la época. Me ha entrado mal desde el principio.
Honor no se queda corta. Porque comienza la novela con una escena que podría haberla aceptado por original. Sin embargo, a lo largo de todo el libro teje y maneja a su libre albedrío: sale de noche, no hay carabinas, entra en casa de solteros... Todo sin consecuencia alguna
Los secundarios. He estado a punto de no decir nada, pero me parece que cambian en la historia y se quedan en el aire. Monica parece que mejora y Augustine que pasa a ser estricto, pero no hay desenlace en esa evolución.
Además, a la relación le falta picardía, atracción e interacción. Pero no me decían nada.
El libro no me ha gustado. Está bien escrito y se lee rápido, pero carece de realidad histórica, mucho toqueteo innecesario y dos protagonistas poco veraces e interesantes para mí.
En relación con el personaje principal masculino, la mayor crítica que le puedo hacer, por muy puritana que pueda sonar al decirlo, es que George me parece excesivamente atrevido para la época. Me ha entrado mal desde el principio.
Honor no se queda corta. Porque comienza la novela con una escena que podría haberla aceptado por original. Sin embargo, a lo largo de todo el libro teje y maneja a su libre albedrío: sale de noche, no hay carabinas, entra en casa de solteros... Todo sin consecuencia alguna
Los secundarios. He estado a punto de no decir nada, pero me parece que cambian en la historia y se quedan en el aire. Monica parece que mejora y Augustine que pasa a ser estricto, pero no hay desenlace en esa evolución.
Además, a la relación le falta picardía, atracción e interacción. Pero no me decían nada.
December 29, 2015
Took me awhile to warm up to Honor, because I thought what she was doing was wrong. I know she had good reasons, but it still felt slimy. A good read in the end though.
August 19, 2024
Review from 2014
A for narration / B for content.
The Trouble with Honor, the first book in a new series from Ms London, tells the story of the eldest of the four Cabot sisters. With their sick father not expected to live much longer and their mother gradually succumbing to what we would today recognise as dementia, Miss Honor Cabot has little alternative but to assume parental responsibility for her younger sisters.
She’s vivacious and beautiful, and has not been without male admirers. Having had her heart broken a couple of years previously by a young man who showed every sign of being equally smitten until he offered for another woman, Honor has been reluctant to look for a suitable husband. But now, with her family situation as it is, she is starting to think she has left it too late to make any match, for what man will want – or be able to afford – the burden of three sisters and a sick mother?
The difficulty of the sisters’ situation is exacerbated by the fact that their stepbrother is engaged to be married to Miss Monica Hargrove, whom Honor has convinced herself will use her influence over him to see them all turned out of the house before the ink is dry on the marriage license.
Honor needs to buy them all some time while she finds herself a suitably rich and biddable husband. The plan she comes up with is, to be honest, pretty daft; she thinks that if she can separate her brother and his fiancée, he will have nobody urging him to turn them out and shut their mother away in a home in the far wilds of Wales and they’ll be safe for a little longer. With that plan in mind, she approaches Mr George Easton, illegitimate – and unacknowledged – son of a royal duke; a man with a reputation as a gambler and risk-taker – and asks for his help. She wants him to “turn Monica’s head” – he’s handsome, charming and an expert in the art of seduction, and Monica is an attractive young woman, so it shouldn’t prove too onerous or difficult a task.
Honor has, however, reckoned without George’s perceptiveness. He may have a reputation for recklessness, but he’s no fool and immediately discerns the reasons behind Honor’s request:
“With [your father] on his deathbed, you fear that a new countess will not look kindly to keeping four stepsisters as they should like to be kept.”
She finds his insight more than a little disturbing – and for his part, even though he’s stunned by her audacity, George can’t help but be intrigued and admire Honor’s cheek… as well as other parts of her anatomy :P
But admiration wins out, and against his better judgement the deal is struck, with George agreeing to draw Monica into a flirtation at the next available opportunity.
Given the improbable premise and a heroine whose determination to destroy her stepbrother’s happiness seemed certain to make her unlikeable, I had a few misgivings about the story, and if it wasn’t for the fact that I’d listen to Rosalyn Landor read the phone book, I might have set it aside and moved on to something else. But her performance drew me in and kept me listening; and I ended up enjoying the audiobook more than I thought I would. The story has a few flaws, but none of them were so huge as to pull me out of it and fortunately, Honor does grow up during the course of the book and come to admit her plan was unkind and ridiculous. In fact, as her character is gradually revealed to be rather more than the spoiled, selfish young woman she at first seems, I found myself warming to her. She really doesn’t care about being able to afford fashionable clothes or hats – all she wants is to be able to look after her sisters and make sure their mother is cared for. Her options are limited – sadly typical for a young woman of the time – but she’s not one to sit back and take whatever hand fate deals her, and she goes for what she wants – even if her methods might be somewhat questionable. In that, she’s similar to George, who is also someone who is willing to go out on a limb for what he wants.
George is an attractive and charming hero, but has some deep-seated insecurities relating to his birth and to the precariousness of his social standing which lend depth to his character, and which are at the root of the conflict in the story in the later stages. The friendship that develops between the central couple is rather sweet, albeit very sexually charged, and the romance between them is well developed. If I have a complaint, it’s that George is a bit too much of a pushover when it comes to saying “no” to Honor. Otherwise, though, he’s rather lovely, wanting nothing more than to do his best by the woman he loves, even when circumstances take a turn for the worse.
As I said above, I ended up enjoying this audiobook more than I expected to, and that is in no small part to Rosalyn Landor’s excellent performance. She has a real affinity with this sort of material, and her delivery and manner of expression always strike the perfect note with me – somehow, her narrations sound exactly the way I hear books in my head when I’m reading the print versions!
As always, Ms Landor presents the listener with a rich array of vocal characterisations, each one clearly differentiated and easily identifiable. There are a number of scenes which feature all four of the Misses Cabot, and there is never any confusion as to which of them is speaking, from the softly spoken Grace, to Prudence’s sharper matter-of-factness and the more childlike tones adopted for the youngest sister, Mercy. The girls’ parents are heartbreakingly realised, especially their mother, whose gorgeous, mellow notes are so often – and so sadly – at variance with the words coming out of her mouth.
The male characters are just as expertly rendered. I know Ms Landor has her detractors in this area, but she has a wonderful way with the formal language and manners displayed by the gentlemen in historical romances, managing to strike the right balance between that aura of privilege so often associated with the hero, while at the same time making him sexy enough to set knees a-wobble. Her portrayal of George Easton is one such – he’s no pompous aristocrat, but he exudes confidence and sex appeal in equal measure, and Ms Landor captures both expertly.
If you can forgive a few flaws in the storytelling, The Trouble with Honor is an appealing story which is most definitely enhanced by Rosalyn Landor’s vivid characterisations and beautifully performed narrative.
A for narration / B for content.
The Trouble with Honor, the first book in a new series from Ms London, tells the story of the eldest of the four Cabot sisters. With their sick father not expected to live much longer and their mother gradually succumbing to what we would today recognise as dementia, Miss Honor Cabot has little alternative but to assume parental responsibility for her younger sisters.
She’s vivacious and beautiful, and has not been without male admirers. Having had her heart broken a couple of years previously by a young man who showed every sign of being equally smitten until he offered for another woman, Honor has been reluctant to look for a suitable husband. But now, with her family situation as it is, she is starting to think she has left it too late to make any match, for what man will want – or be able to afford – the burden of three sisters and a sick mother?
The difficulty of the sisters’ situation is exacerbated by the fact that their stepbrother is engaged to be married to Miss Monica Hargrove, whom Honor has convinced herself will use her influence over him to see them all turned out of the house before the ink is dry on the marriage license.
Honor needs to buy them all some time while she finds herself a suitably rich and biddable husband. The plan she comes up with is, to be honest, pretty daft; she thinks that if she can separate her brother and his fiancée, he will have nobody urging him to turn them out and shut their mother away in a home in the far wilds of Wales and they’ll be safe for a little longer. With that plan in mind, she approaches Mr George Easton, illegitimate – and unacknowledged – son of a royal duke; a man with a reputation as a gambler and risk-taker – and asks for his help. She wants him to “turn Monica’s head” – he’s handsome, charming and an expert in the art of seduction, and Monica is an attractive young woman, so it shouldn’t prove too onerous or difficult a task.
Honor has, however, reckoned without George’s perceptiveness. He may have a reputation for recklessness, but he’s no fool and immediately discerns the reasons behind Honor’s request:
“With [your father] on his deathbed, you fear that a new countess will not look kindly to keeping four stepsisters as they should like to be kept.”
She finds his insight more than a little disturbing – and for his part, even though he’s stunned by her audacity, George can’t help but be intrigued and admire Honor’s cheek… as well as other parts of her anatomy :P
But admiration wins out, and against his better judgement the deal is struck, with George agreeing to draw Monica into a flirtation at the next available opportunity.
Given the improbable premise and a heroine whose determination to destroy her stepbrother’s happiness seemed certain to make her unlikeable, I had a few misgivings about the story, and if it wasn’t for the fact that I’d listen to Rosalyn Landor read the phone book, I might have set it aside and moved on to something else. But her performance drew me in and kept me listening; and I ended up enjoying the audiobook more than I thought I would. The story has a few flaws, but none of them were so huge as to pull me out of it and fortunately, Honor does grow up during the course of the book and come to admit her plan was unkind and ridiculous. In fact, as her character is gradually revealed to be rather more than the spoiled, selfish young woman she at first seems, I found myself warming to her. She really doesn’t care about being able to afford fashionable clothes or hats – all she wants is to be able to look after her sisters and make sure their mother is cared for. Her options are limited – sadly typical for a young woman of the time – but she’s not one to sit back and take whatever hand fate deals her, and she goes for what she wants – even if her methods might be somewhat questionable. In that, she’s similar to George, who is also someone who is willing to go out on a limb for what he wants.
George is an attractive and charming hero, but has some deep-seated insecurities relating to his birth and to the precariousness of his social standing which lend depth to his character, and which are at the root of the conflict in the story in the later stages. The friendship that develops between the central couple is rather sweet, albeit very sexually charged, and the romance between them is well developed. If I have a complaint, it’s that George is a bit too much of a pushover when it comes to saying “no” to Honor. Otherwise, though, he’s rather lovely, wanting nothing more than to do his best by the woman he loves, even when circumstances take a turn for the worse.
As I said above, I ended up enjoying this audiobook more than I expected to, and that is in no small part to Rosalyn Landor’s excellent performance. She has a real affinity with this sort of material, and her delivery and manner of expression always strike the perfect note with me – somehow, her narrations sound exactly the way I hear books in my head when I’m reading the print versions!
As always, Ms Landor presents the listener with a rich array of vocal characterisations, each one clearly differentiated and easily identifiable. There are a number of scenes which feature all four of the Misses Cabot, and there is never any confusion as to which of them is speaking, from the softly spoken Grace, to Prudence’s sharper matter-of-factness and the more childlike tones adopted for the youngest sister, Mercy. The girls’ parents are heartbreakingly realised, especially their mother, whose gorgeous, mellow notes are so often – and so sadly – at variance with the words coming out of her mouth.
The male characters are just as expertly rendered. I know Ms Landor has her detractors in this area, but she has a wonderful way with the formal language and manners displayed by the gentlemen in historical romances, managing to strike the right balance between that aura of privilege so often associated with the hero, while at the same time making him sexy enough to set knees a-wobble. Her portrayal of George Easton is one such – he’s no pompous aristocrat, but he exudes confidence and sex appeal in equal measure, and Ms Landor captures both expertly.
If you can forgive a few flaws in the storytelling, The Trouble with Honor is an appealing story which is most definitely enhanced by Rosalyn Landor’s vivid characterisations and beautifully performed narrative.
May 5, 2021
2.5 porque en líneas generales lo he pasado bien con la historia ya que el estilo de la autora es muy ágil y es evidente que tiene un gran conocimiento de la época de la que escribe. Y sin embargo, esto último ha terminado por resultar muy contradictorio porque aquí nos presenta a una protagonista que no parece calzar en absoluto con lo que cabría esperar de una heroína en una historia de Regencia. Y no porque sea arrojada o porque rompa el molde respecto a otras (adoro a las rebeldes y a quienes se niegan a cumplir con lo establecido, son mis protas favoritas), sino porque Honor me ha parecido totalmente irreal. Por su conducta, su línea de pensamiento y, ya que estamos, también por la reacción de su entorno respecto a las mismas. Hablar acerca de la necesidad que parecen sentir algunos autores por «modernizar» a sus protagonistas en detrimento del contexto en que se desarrolla la historia da para largo, y no quiero meterme en ese asunto porque aunque a mí me molesta, entiendo que habrá a quienes les guste. En fin, que la moderna Honor me sacaba de la historia cada dos páginas y eso me impidió disfrutar más de la novela; pero me han recomendado que siga con la serie, así que seguro que lo haré. #RetoRita5
January 10, 2016
Summary
Honor and her sisters are in dire circumstances. Her nemesis, is going to marry her brother, Augustine, and she has made threats toward Honor, her mother and her sisters. Their mother is suffering from memory loss, and with their step father sick and soon to die, they know that their lives are about to change, and that they must take action. So Honor comes up with a plan, she will convince George Easton, a scoundrel, to try to seduce her brothers fiancée. George Easton, is a third son, and despite his parentage, he is poor, and has devoted all of his funds toward a shipping endeavor, but if he loses that ship, he will lose everything, except what he makes at the gaming tables. Which is where he first meets Honor Cabot. Honor is unlike any other woman he has ever known, she is daring and beautiful and knows just how to get him to cooperate. He realizes that life will never be easy with her at the helm, but he also knows he can’t get her out of his mind. But George has nothing to give Honor, except his name and a few hundred pounds, will Honor be able to give up her life of parties and gowns and financial security to be with the man she loves..
The Hero
George Easton, knows his place in society and it’s toward the bottom. He doesn’t have high standing, considering the fact that he has small funds, one town house, and supports himself at the gaming tables. George Easton is a bastard, and as such is only considered good for a few things…and that isn’t a place in high society. George Easton is a character I didn’t understand that much. I really liked him, and at first he seems very practical and determined, but he goes along with Honor’s illogical ploys, and it just didn’t fit with him…but I figure men act silly when a beautiful woman is involved and tend not to act like their logical selves. But what I did like about George was his drive to succeed, even when he makes reckless actions, his character is written in such a way that you just can’t help but like him.
The Heroine
Honor is in a bad situation, and even though she is the least practical person, she is determined to do what it takes to protect her family from a woman that would kick them to Europe or the America’s…just to get them out-of-the-way. You see honor’s love and drive to protect those she loves…even in the most ridiculous ways that she goes about it. But even though she could seem very immature at times, and silly, I felt respect for her character. In the story we are put in her mind more, and we what drives her, and she does have good intentions, and despite everything I loved that about her. The way she loves her family and would do anything for them except get married. We see how she likes to do things the hard way…but a very entertaining way though.
Plot and Story Line
Trouble With Honor is the first book…and what a fun romance this was. I had read mixed reviews and ratings about this one, but I like Julia London, and it was a cheap audio book, so I thought it would be good to give it a chance…and I did. At first I will admit the story seemed to drag a bit, but one aspect I have noticed about Julia London’s book you have to give them some time before you get into it and boy am I glad that I stuck with this one, because I adored this story and the narrator is just fabumous…I have listened to other books she has narrated and she is very talented is accents and in portraying the characterizations. There is one thing I just loved about this book…was how George and Honor clicked together. They fit perfectly especially in moments that they don’t realize it. One of my favorite aspects of this story was the way the romance develops because it was different. This pair first meets at the gaming tables, and there is some fiery sparks, but somehow those sparks don’t die despite their difference in positions. What was great about this pair, was how they work hand in hand in such a harmonious way, and especially the first half of the story they don’t see how well they do together. I love that it creeps up on them, and before they realize it…they fall hard for each other. What really got to me was the last part of the story (don’t worry I won’t reveal anything) but it got me emotionally involved, and I so wanted these two to find a way to be together…because they deserved it and they need each other. And they do fight for each other, and even if you have reservations about the heroine…by the end of the book your view changes drastically…it did for me anyway, I love how she fights for love and for what she really wants, and not bow to society’s dictates. This is a romance that slowly won my heart over, in a very dramatic way of course…but nonetheless it happened and I am so thrilled to have discovered this book and I can’t wait to listen to Grace’s story, especially when we get a little tease about her at the end.
The Cover
There are two covers for this book, the newer one matches the series so I put that one up, because I like the couple poses…and I love this one. I love her dress, it’s so pretty and elegant, and I love the pose here, with is hand on her neck—*shivers down the spine* how I love that.
Overall View
The Trouble With Honor is a story that will surprise, shock and delight you from beginning to end. With its unique characters, delectable plot, sensational romance, a fun and entertaining story that will captivate you!! A LIVELY REGENCY ROMANCE!!
Honor and her sisters are in dire circumstances. Her nemesis, is going to marry her brother, Augustine, and she has made threats toward Honor, her mother and her sisters. Their mother is suffering from memory loss, and with their step father sick and soon to die, they know that their lives are about to change, and that they must take action. So Honor comes up with a plan, she will convince George Easton, a scoundrel, to try to seduce her brothers fiancée. George Easton, is a third son, and despite his parentage, he is poor, and has devoted all of his funds toward a shipping endeavor, but if he loses that ship, he will lose everything, except what he makes at the gaming tables. Which is where he first meets Honor Cabot. Honor is unlike any other woman he has ever known, she is daring and beautiful and knows just how to get him to cooperate. He realizes that life will never be easy with her at the helm, but he also knows he can’t get her out of his mind. But George has nothing to give Honor, except his name and a few hundred pounds, will Honor be able to give up her life of parties and gowns and financial security to be with the man she loves..
The Hero
George Easton, knows his place in society and it’s toward the bottom. He doesn’t have high standing, considering the fact that he has small funds, one town house, and supports himself at the gaming tables. George Easton is a bastard, and as such is only considered good for a few things…and that isn’t a place in high society. George Easton is a character I didn’t understand that much. I really liked him, and at first he seems very practical and determined, but he goes along with Honor’s illogical ploys, and it just didn’t fit with him…but I figure men act silly when a beautiful woman is involved and tend not to act like their logical selves. But what I did like about George was his drive to succeed, even when he makes reckless actions, his character is written in such a way that you just can’t help but like him.
The Heroine
Honor is in a bad situation, and even though she is the least practical person, she is determined to do what it takes to protect her family from a woman that would kick them to Europe or the America’s…just to get them out-of-the-way. You see honor’s love and drive to protect those she loves…even in the most ridiculous ways that she goes about it. But even though she could seem very immature at times, and silly, I felt respect for her character. In the story we are put in her mind more, and we what drives her, and she does have good intentions, and despite everything I loved that about her. The way she loves her family and would do anything for them except get married. We see how she likes to do things the hard way…but a very entertaining way though.
Plot and Story Line
Trouble With Honor is the first book…and what a fun romance this was. I had read mixed reviews and ratings about this one, but I like Julia London, and it was a cheap audio book, so I thought it would be good to give it a chance…and I did. At first I will admit the story seemed to drag a bit, but one aspect I have noticed about Julia London’s book you have to give them some time before you get into it and boy am I glad that I stuck with this one, because I adored this story and the narrator is just fabumous…I have listened to other books she has narrated and she is very talented is accents and in portraying the characterizations. There is one thing I just loved about this book…was how George and Honor clicked together. They fit perfectly especially in moments that they don’t realize it. One of my favorite aspects of this story was the way the romance develops because it was different. This pair first meets at the gaming tables, and there is some fiery sparks, but somehow those sparks don’t die despite their difference in positions. What was great about this pair, was how they work hand in hand in such a harmonious way, and especially the first half of the story they don’t see how well they do together. I love that it creeps up on them, and before they realize it…they fall hard for each other. What really got to me was the last part of the story (don’t worry I won’t reveal anything) but it got me emotionally involved, and I so wanted these two to find a way to be together…because they deserved it and they need each other. And they do fight for each other, and even if you have reservations about the heroine…by the end of the book your view changes drastically…it did for me anyway, I love how she fights for love and for what she really wants, and not bow to society’s dictates. This is a romance that slowly won my heart over, in a very dramatic way of course…but nonetheless it happened and I am so thrilled to have discovered this book and I can’t wait to listen to Grace’s story, especially when we get a little tease about her at the end.
The Cover
There are two covers for this book, the newer one matches the series so I put that one up, because I like the couple poses…and I love this one. I love her dress, it’s so pretty and elegant, and I love the pose here, with is hand on her neck—*shivers down the spine* how I love that.
Overall View
The Trouble With Honor is a story that will surprise, shock and delight you from beginning to end. With its unique characters, delectable plot, sensational romance, a fun and entertaining story that will captivate you!! A LIVELY REGENCY ROMANCE!!
January 4, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Honor was a refreshing heroine who seemed like she didn’t care what others thought of her but she actively thought of the welfare of her mother (and sisters).
Her plan to get Eastin to break up her cousin Augustine’s engagement was because she feared his fiancée would dump them all from the house. While she was correct in her assumption, she didn’t consider there was other ways to secure her own future as well as that of her family.
The awesome Rosalyn Landor kept my attention through this audiobook and I dare say it was one of the most entertaining HRs I’ve read in a while.
Her plan to get Eastin to break up her cousin Augustine’s engagement was because she feared his fiancée would dump them all from the house. While she was correct in her assumption, she didn’t consider there was other ways to secure her own future as well as that of her family.
The awesome Rosalyn Landor kept my attention through this audiobook and I dare say it was one of the most entertaining HRs I’ve read in a while.
October 31, 2017
I loved the story and the whole mess Honor goes through finding love. A definite page turner. George is such an amazing character. Can’t wait to read about Grace in the next book in the series.
January 17, 2014
This is the first novel by Julia London that I have had the pleasure to read. The first book of The Cabot Sisters series, "The Trouble with Honor" is about the beautiful, bold, and slightly scheming Honor Cabot.
Honor's stepfather is on the brink of death and Honor knows that her step-brother's fiance Monica has put it into Augustine's head to have Honor, her sisters, and her mother move out once they are married. Said marriage is postponed because of the Earl's poor health. Honor knows she must do something to delay the marriage so her sisters and her mother will be taken care of. Honor's mother was in a carriage accident that altered her memory and sometimes temperament. She fears the ton will shun her and her family and deem her mother crazy.
George Easton, illegitimate son of a duke, nephew to a king has a devil may care attitude he presents to the world. He has amassed a fortune to prove to the ton that he is worthy and does not need society. He invested in a risky venture and could possibly be on the brink of ruin. Honor meets George at a gaming hell and decides that George could be the answer to her problems. After all, he's not socially acceptable, but good looking and a ladies man, perhaps he can seduce Monica away from marrying Augustine.
George eventually agrees to Honor's scheme. But the two become friends and fall in love. They learn together what is really important in life. There are many road blocks to the two's love and even some rejection, but eventually they decide that love is more important that society or material things.
I really liked both Honor and George even though they were frustrating at times. Their love was believable. I enjoyed reading about Honor's sisters as well. Book two will be about Grace Cabot. The ending of this book hints at some trouble she has ended up in. And I am anxious to read her book. I even didn't mind Monica in the end. I definitely will read more of London's work. I recommend this book to all historical romance fans. Fans of the author will not be disappointed.
*Thank you to Harlequin for providing a copy in exchange for a review!
Honor's stepfather is on the brink of death and Honor knows that her step-brother's fiance Monica has put it into Augustine's head to have Honor, her sisters, and her mother move out once they are married. Said marriage is postponed because of the Earl's poor health. Honor knows she must do something to delay the marriage so her sisters and her mother will be taken care of. Honor's mother was in a carriage accident that altered her memory and sometimes temperament. She fears the ton will shun her and her family and deem her mother crazy.
George Easton, illegitimate son of a duke, nephew to a king has a devil may care attitude he presents to the world. He has amassed a fortune to prove to the ton that he is worthy and does not need society. He invested in a risky venture and could possibly be on the brink of ruin. Honor meets George at a gaming hell and decides that George could be the answer to her problems. After all, he's not socially acceptable, but good looking and a ladies man, perhaps he can seduce Monica away from marrying Augustine.
George eventually agrees to Honor's scheme. But the two become friends and fall in love. They learn together what is really important in life. There are many road blocks to the two's love and even some rejection, but eventually they decide that love is more important that society or material things.
I really liked both Honor and George even though they were frustrating at times. Their love was believable. I enjoyed reading about Honor's sisters as well. Book two will be about Grace Cabot. The ending of this book hints at some trouble she has ended up in. And I am anxious to read her book. I even didn't mind Monica in the end. I definitely will read more of London's work. I recommend this book to all historical romance fans. Fans of the author will not be disappointed.
*Thank you to Harlequin for providing a copy in exchange for a review!
March 4, 2014
This book was a fun and fluffy historical romance that I think fans of the genre will really enjoy. The heroine, Honor, is a bit on the stubborn side, but I think the storyline is fun and different enough to overlook that issue. The almost 'love triangle' storyline with Monica was well done and seemed real and three dimensional instead of just a plot device.
The author's writing style does take some getting used to at first, but I think it will really appeal to fans of the regency romance genre. The he said/she said banter is very reminiscent of the regency queen herself-Jane Austen.
In some ways, Honor's youthfulness is appealing, but unfortunately she crosses over into 'immaturity' at some times. However, it is quite believable that a lot of young women in that time especially with her family and security would act the very same way. It is so easy to get caught up in her somewhat fluffy and frivolous drama though, because the author's writing style captures the regency dramatics so well! Honor's sisters were a great addition to the story and I can see readers wanting to devour the upcoming books in series and read all about all of the Cabot sisters.
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for an honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
The author's writing style does take some getting used to at first, but I think it will really appeal to fans of the regency romance genre. The he said/she said banter is very reminiscent of the regency queen herself-Jane Austen.
In some ways, Honor's youthfulness is appealing, but unfortunately she crosses over into 'immaturity' at some times. However, it is quite believable that a lot of young women in that time especially with her family and security would act the very same way. It is so easy to get caught up in her somewhat fluffy and frivolous drama though, because the author's writing style captures the regency dramatics so well! Honor's sisters were a great addition to the story and I can see readers wanting to devour the upcoming books in series and read all about all of the Cabot sisters.
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for an honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
December 29, 2019
A madcap sexy adventure.
The author does a wonderful job getting you involved in Honor's wild scheme and rooting for her to succeed. You can feel her despair and love for her family conflicting with her growing love for an unsuitable rake, George. I enjoyed George with his rakish ways and his disbelief in love. Seeing him charmed and bowled over by his love for Honor was sweet.
The author does a wonderful job getting you involved in Honor's wild scheme and rooting for her to succeed. You can feel her despair and love for her family conflicting with her growing love for an unsuitable rake, George. I enjoyed George with his rakish ways and his disbelief in love. Seeing him charmed and bowled over by his love for Honor was sweet.
May 27, 2018
**2.5 estrellas
Me pareció entretenido y nada más.... tuvo muchas fallas!!
La protagonista además de parecerme insoportable por momentos... fue de lo más descarada y atrevida para la época en que transcurre la trama.... eso de dejarse tocar por el protagonista desde un primer momento y no sentirse ofendida ni nada me pareció "increíble"....
Lo que medio me gustó... por que fue algo diferente a lo que siempre leo.... fue que el prota "George" no tuviera titulo y tampoco fuera rico... y para el final consiguió un trabajo como cualquier persona común.
Pero quiero leer el libro de Grace..... me dejó super intrigada, ese último capítulo y quiero saber en que se está metiendo.
Me pareció entretenido y nada más.... tuvo muchas fallas!!
La protagonista además de parecerme insoportable por momentos... fue de lo más descarada y atrevida para la época en que transcurre la trama.... eso de dejarse tocar por el protagonista desde un primer momento y no sentirse ofendida ni nada me pareció "increíble"....
Lo que medio me gustó... por que fue algo diferente a lo que siempre leo.... fue que el prota "George" no tuviera titulo y tampoco fuera rico... y para el final consiguió un trabajo como cualquier persona común.
Pero quiero leer el libro de Grace..... me dejó super intrigada, ese último capítulo y quiero saber en que se está metiendo.
June 8, 2015
Selfish is as Selfish Does
Somehow I overlooked two of Julia London's Cabot sister books: The Trouble with Honor and The Fall of Grace aka The Devil Takes a Bride, so I went back and read them. I'm
undecided whether that was a good plan or not.
I will preface this by saying that both Honor and Grace were shallow, unlikeable women. There are four Cabot sisters, Honor, Grace, Prudence and Mercy. All of these sisters seem to be pretty self-centered, even when they say they have to save their family, it still boils down to "all about me - me - me." Here's the plot for the first two books: it seems that their step-father is dying and their mother is developing either Dementia or Alzheimer's, not sure which. But it doesn't really matter because this is 1812 and eventually their mother would be put in an asylum. At least that's the conclusion Honor and Grace jump to, although I had my doubts that this would happen considering the social order the Cabot's inhabited. Oh sure, aristocratic men would lock up a wife they wanted to get rid of, but a lot of older relatives fell into the category of eccentric and were sheltered away in distant parts of the house or estate. Anyway, the two elder sisters think that their future sister-in-law, Monica, will kick them out of the house and send their mother off to an asylum. Why do they think this? Not sure! This was never explained to me satisfactorily. In fact, I was never quite sure why they disliked Monica so much. Supposedly Monica and Honor at one time were friends. I would have like for this to have been explored better than it was and I have to say I was very dissatisfied with the whole Monica/Honor relationship. I believe Monica was a sort of villain, however, Honor's "plan" for Monica had all the earmarks of villainy, so Honor was not my favorite heroine.
Now, for some reason their dying step-father, who seems to have a great fondness for his step-daughters and is in love with his wife and is also very much aware of his wife's deteriorating illness doesn't seem to be able to financially protect his step-daughters. I didn't understand this. He's capable of thinking, talking, walking, and writing. He is very fond of all of the sisters, so I didn't understand why he was portrayed as being irresponsible enough to let his beloved wife be carted off to the asylum with his passing. It was part of the plot that didn't make sense. There was a lot in the plot that didn't make sense. The elder sisters thinking they would be turned out because of mean ol' Monica was another very weak part of the plot. Especially when she wasn't all that mean. But, then there wouldn't have been a reason for Honor to do what she did so that she could have her HEA. And, here's the noble Honor's plan.
Augustine, her step-brother is engaged to Monica. Now, Monica isn't the most delightful character I've ever come across in a book but she's ok. For some reason, which I don't believe is ever adequately explained, Monica and Honor don't get along. Honor thinks Monica will have her and her sisters thrown out as soon as their step-father dies. So, somehow she must break up the engagement. How will she do this? She will have some Romanceland rake who is just hanging around gaming hells seduce Monica away from Augustine. Did I mention I did not care for Honor? I found her cruel and her intentions were not noble. Augustine was a kind-hearted, not-so-bright guy who truly loved Monica, and Monica cared for him. Granted her feelings weren't quite romantic, but nonetheless, she was very fond of Augustine. So, for Honor to deliberately set out to destroy not one but two peoples' lives was reprehensible to me. So, it was very hard for me to like someone who would resort to such selfish, cruel tactics. And then the "hero" agrees.
George Easton is the illegitimate son of a royal duke. He lives on the fringe of society, never able to be with the "right" people - always on the outside looking in. So, the malicious scheme of Honor's should really open some doors for him. I found George to be as reprehensible as Honor and for that reason they made a good pair. Not only does he agree to seduce Monica away from Augustine, he also seduces Honor out of her knickers, knowing full well that nothing will ever come of it. Why? Say it along with me - "he's not good enough."
In the end I wasn't very fond of The Trouble with Honor. The characters were not likeable, but were quite close to being loathsome. Honor's scheme was not only ridiculous it was cruel. All four of the sisters were portrayed as being self-absorbed and while I realize that we are all self-absorbed, it is only human after all, hopefully we are not as oblivious to the feelings of those around us as these four sisters were. The more I think about this book, the less I like it - so, I'm going to stop thinking about it.
KaysBlog
Somehow I overlooked two of Julia London's Cabot sister books: The Trouble with Honor and The Fall of Grace aka The Devil Takes a Bride, so I went back and read them. I'm
undecided whether that was a good plan or not.
I will preface this by saying that both Honor and Grace were shallow, unlikeable women. There are four Cabot sisters, Honor, Grace, Prudence and Mercy. All of these sisters seem to be pretty self-centered, even when they say they have to save their family, it still boils down to "all about me - me - me." Here's the plot for the first two books: it seems that their step-father is dying and their mother is developing either Dementia or Alzheimer's, not sure which. But it doesn't really matter because this is 1812 and eventually their mother would be put in an asylum. At least that's the conclusion Honor and Grace jump to, although I had my doubts that this would happen considering the social order the Cabot's inhabited. Oh sure, aristocratic men would lock up a wife they wanted to get rid of, but a lot of older relatives fell into the category of eccentric and were sheltered away in distant parts of the house or estate. Anyway, the two elder sisters think that their future sister-in-law, Monica, will kick them out of the house and send their mother off to an asylum. Why do they think this? Not sure! This was never explained to me satisfactorily. In fact, I was never quite sure why they disliked Monica so much. Supposedly Monica and Honor at one time were friends. I would have like for this to have been explored better than it was and I have to say I was very dissatisfied with the whole Monica/Honor relationship. I believe Monica was a sort of villain, however, Honor's "plan" for Monica had all the earmarks of villainy, so Honor was not my favorite heroine.
Now, for some reason their dying step-father, who seems to have a great fondness for his step-daughters and is in love with his wife and is also very much aware of his wife's deteriorating illness doesn't seem to be able to financially protect his step-daughters. I didn't understand this. He's capable of thinking, talking, walking, and writing. He is very fond of all of the sisters, so I didn't understand why he was portrayed as being irresponsible enough to let his beloved wife be carted off to the asylum with his passing. It was part of the plot that didn't make sense. There was a lot in the plot that didn't make sense. The elder sisters thinking they would be turned out because of mean ol' Monica was another very weak part of the plot. Especially when she wasn't all that mean. But, then there wouldn't have been a reason for Honor to do what she did so that she could have her HEA. And, here's the noble Honor's plan.
Augustine, her step-brother is engaged to Monica. Now, Monica isn't the most delightful character I've ever come across in a book but she's ok. For some reason, which I don't believe is ever adequately explained, Monica and Honor don't get along. Honor thinks Monica will have her and her sisters thrown out as soon as their step-father dies. So, somehow she must break up the engagement. How will she do this? She will have some Romanceland rake who is just hanging around gaming hells seduce Monica away from Augustine. Did I mention I did not care for Honor? I found her cruel and her intentions were not noble. Augustine was a kind-hearted, not-so-bright guy who truly loved Monica, and Monica cared for him. Granted her feelings weren't quite romantic, but nonetheless, she was very fond of Augustine. So, for Honor to deliberately set out to destroy not one but two peoples' lives was reprehensible to me. So, it was very hard for me to like someone who would resort to such selfish, cruel tactics. And then the "hero" agrees.
George Easton is the illegitimate son of a royal duke. He lives on the fringe of society, never able to be with the "right" people - always on the outside looking in. So, the malicious scheme of Honor's should really open some doors for him. I found George to be as reprehensible as Honor and for that reason they made a good pair. Not only does he agree to seduce Monica away from Augustine, he also seduces Honor out of her knickers, knowing full well that nothing will ever come of it. Why? Say it along with me - "he's not good enough."
In the end I wasn't very fond of The Trouble with Honor. The characters were not likeable, but were quite close to being loathsome. Honor's scheme was not only ridiculous it was cruel. All four of the sisters were portrayed as being self-absorbed and while I realize that we are all self-absorbed, it is only human after all, hopefully we are not as oblivious to the feelings of those around us as these four sisters were. The more I think about this book, the less I like it - so, I'm going to stop thinking about it.
KaysBlog
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2017
Me encanta el romance histórico pero este libro no me ha gustado por muchos motivos el primero por el personaje femenino, la típica protagonista hermosa y egoísta que sólo piensa en su interés -aunque lo esconda bajo la escusa de su madre- y que no se le ocurre otra idea más ingeniosa que destrozar la vida de su "hermanastro" para no peder su posición social. Y para ello acude a un afamado "bastardo" con fama de seductor que claro se aprovecha de ella cuando están solo en el carruaje nada más verse. Y la protagonista tan contenta de que un señor que acaba de conocer la toquetee a su gusto y le diga obcenidades, porque con lo guapo que es en vez de partirle la cara se le caen los pololos. Viva el orgullo femenino.
Sinceramente poco favor se hacen al género romántico tener historias como estas donde las mujeres son vistas como meros objetos sexuales ya que al protagonista lo que le interesa es acostarse con ella y nada más. Lo de enamorarse viene luego que para eso es un libro romántico, hay que tener boda al final. Eso sí antes el revolcón/revolcones que ahora que se lleva el sexo por doquier. Lo de llegar pura al matrimonio no se lleva.
O sea la típica novela romántica histórica que se puede encontrar hoy en día. Para luego tenga que explica una por qué dejo de leer estos libros.
Sinceramente poco favor se hacen al género romántico tener historias como estas donde las mujeres son vistas como meros objetos sexuales ya que al protagonista lo que le interesa es acostarse con ella y nada más. Lo de enamorarse viene luego que para eso es un libro romántico, hay que tener boda al final. Eso sí antes el revolcón/revolcones que ahora que se lleva el sexo por doquier. Lo de llegar pura al matrimonio no se lleva.
O sea la típica novela romántica histórica que se puede encontrar hoy en día. Para luego tenga que explica una por qué dejo de leer estos libros.
July 5, 2023
The whole thing was preposterous. Honor’s scheme to destroy—or postpone—her brother’s marriage was repulsive and made her the villain of the piece. I hated her fully half of this book. Easton knew her plan was reprehensible and fell in with it anyway, which did not speak well of his character. The plotline was nonsense and only a framework for sexual encounters between the hero and heroine, who were anything but heroic. And yet…and yet…
I liked this flawed book anyway. As the book progressed and the hero and heroine started to drown in their vulnerabilities and circumstances, they became more relatable. Their self-interested, devil-may-care approach to life started to look more like brittle bravado than deep-rooted moral bankruptcy. The author took the time to add a few poignant family moments in between sexual encounters, and those moments will remain with me long after I’ve forgotten the generic sex scenes.
I liked this flawed book anyway. As the book progressed and the hero and heroine started to drown in their vulnerabilities and circumstances, they became more relatable. Their self-interested, devil-may-care approach to life started to look more like brittle bravado than deep-rooted moral bankruptcy. The author took the time to add a few poignant family moments in between sexual encounters, and those moments will remain with me long after I’ve forgotten the generic sex scenes.
January 24, 2016
Honor first meets George Easton in a gambling hell and that's when all the trouble begins. After convincing George to seduce away her stepbrother's fiance, Honor decides she wants George to herself. He doesn't feel worthy but still sets out to prove his love.
I must admit I liked both the hero and heroine and Honor's sisters but the scenes I enjoyed most were not the excessive and in my opinion unrealistic love scenes between the main characters but the interactions between the Cabot sisters and between Monica and honor. Those seemed the most honest and heartfelt scenes to me whereas the scenes written for Honor and George were a little too superfluously accomplished.
I must admit I liked both the hero and heroine and Honor's sisters but the scenes I enjoyed most were not the excessive and in my opinion unrealistic love scenes between the main characters but the interactions between the Cabot sisters and between Monica and honor. Those seemed the most honest and heartfelt scenes to me whereas the scenes written for Honor and George were a little too superfluously accomplished.
April 21, 2024
Honor Cabot vrând să zădărnicească un pic căsătoria fratelui său vitreg, îl pune pe George Easton să o seducă pe viitoarea ei cumnată şi fosta prietenă.
Dar nu merge chiar aşa cum şi-a imaginat. .
Pe când Honor este atrasă de George, prietena sa înţelege că ceva se întâmplă.
Cei doi mereu când sunt împreună sunt atraşi unul de altul, dar se gândesc că nu vor putea fi împreună.
Ce va face Honor, ca să aibă un viitor frumos alături de surorile sale şi mama care este bolnavă!!
Dar nu merge chiar aşa cum şi-a imaginat. .
Pe când Honor este atrasă de George, prietena sa înţelege că ceva se întâmplă.
Cei doi mereu când sunt împreună sunt atraşi unul de altul, dar se gândesc că nu vor putea fi împreună.
Ce va face Honor, ca să aibă un viitor frumos alături de surorile sale şi mama care este bolnavă!!
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