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Taming #1
Woo'd in Haste
Miss Bianca Mansfield is ready for her debut. If only her older sister didn't insist on marrying first. She's doomed to wait to find love. Until she meets … him.
For Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, recently returned from an extended tour abroad, it is love at first sight. He's determined to meet Bianca, even if it means masquerading as a tutor to her young half-brother.
Soon Bianca is torn between love and duty and about to make a desperate decision. Can Lucian calm her fury over his betrayal when he reveals that he's not nearly as improper a match as he seems? And will they ever be able to find a match for her older sister to turn this masquerade into wedded bliss?
For Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, recently returned from an extended tour abroad, it is love at first sight. He's determined to meet Bianca, even if it means masquerading as a tutor to her young half-brother.
Soon Bianca is torn between love and duty and about to make a desperate decision. Can Lucian calm her fury over his betrayal when he reveals that he's not nearly as improper a match as he seems? And will they ever be able to find a match for her older sister to turn this masquerade into wedded bliss?
160 pages, Unknown Binding
First published May 13, 2014
13 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Sabrina Darby
20 books192 followersSabrina Darby has been reading romance since the age of seven and learned her best vocabulary (dulcet, diaphanous, and turgid) from them. She started writing romance the day after her wedding when she woke up with an idea for a Regency; she’s been back in the early 19th century ever since.
She currently resides in California with her husband.
And for more historical romance fabulousness, join Sabrina at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ILove... for fun discussions led live every Thursday by a different guest co-host.
She currently resides in California with her husband.
And for more historical romance fabulousness, join Sabrina at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ILove... for fun discussions led live every Thursday by a different guest co-host.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 16, 2014
Coup de Foudre
Lucien Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, never thought the proverbial "love at first sight" would strike him, but alas, it did and he fell madly in love with Miss Bianca Mansfield, a most unsuitable choice.
Bianca is unsuitable for the sole reason that her older sister, Kate, must marry before she can, and as Kate is known as a harpy among London society, Bianca's chances grew slimmer by the minute. Lucien, of course, is not one to be daunted by such an obstacle, and instead gets himself hired as a tutor to Bianca's half-brother, Thomas, in order to get closer to her. The coup de foudre occurs both ways...as Bianca quickly falls for Lucien's charming and easy manner, finding in him a swoon-worthy hero, like those figures in the romance novels she reads, though not quite a Mr. Darcy, or a Mr. Wentworth.
This book is indeed an invocation of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew, and what is most interesting is how Bianca is selfishly spoilt, yet believes her sister is the spoilt one. Her initial behavior and thoughts paint her most unfavorably, and the greatest strength in this novella is really how Bianca matures through truly learning to love, accompanied by Lucien's mental maturity through his learning the definition of love - which is certainly not the physical attraction which drew him to Bianca at first.
I have read and enjoyed all of Sabrina Darby's books, and while I did not like Bianca's character for the reason that I do not like reading about a blatantly vain heroine, I appreciate and respect the challenge Darby took on in her Taming series, of using love as a medium to transform misguided heroines to maturity and depth. It is with great anticipation that I await Kate's story, to see how she, who views Bianca as the one who makes her life miserable, will grow through learning true love and humility. :)
Published on Buried Under Romance for a blog tour
*Review copy complimentary of the publisher for an honest review
Lucien Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, never thought the proverbial "love at first sight" would strike him, but alas, it did and he fell madly in love with Miss Bianca Mansfield, a most unsuitable choice.
Bianca is unsuitable for the sole reason that her older sister, Kate, must marry before she can, and as Kate is known as a harpy among London society, Bianca's chances grew slimmer by the minute. Lucien, of course, is not one to be daunted by such an obstacle, and instead gets himself hired as a tutor to Bianca's half-brother, Thomas, in order to get closer to her. The coup de foudre occurs both ways...as Bianca quickly falls for Lucien's charming and easy manner, finding in him a swoon-worthy hero, like those figures in the romance novels she reads, though not quite a Mr. Darcy, or a Mr. Wentworth.
This book is indeed an invocation of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew, and what is most interesting is how Bianca is selfishly spoilt, yet believes her sister is the spoilt one. Her initial behavior and thoughts paint her most unfavorably, and the greatest strength in this novella is really how Bianca matures through truly learning to love, accompanied by Lucien's mental maturity through his learning the definition of love - which is certainly not the physical attraction which drew him to Bianca at first.
I have read and enjoyed all of Sabrina Darby's books, and while I did not like Bianca's character for the reason that I do not like reading about a blatantly vain heroine, I appreciate and respect the challenge Darby took on in her Taming series, of using love as a medium to transform misguided heroines to maturity and depth. It is with great anticipation that I await Kate's story, to see how she, who views Bianca as the one who makes her life miserable, will grow through learning true love and humility. :)
Published on Buried Under Romance for a blog tour
*Review copy complimentary of the publisher for an honest review
January 3, 2016
I have enjoyed Sabrina Darby's novellas because they are typically very emotionally dense and satisfying despite the lower page count. In this story, I didn't quite get that feeling, but it did set up the pair novella well which I loved.
Woo'd in Haste is the first of a novella pair that mirrors the taming of the shrew. In this story, we meet the "good" sister who has chafed enough under the antics of her older sister and resorts to drama and scandal to finally reach for what she wants.
Bianca is a blond beauty who has been cloistered away in the countryside while her older sister Kate enjoys all of the thrills of a London season. Bianca is supposed to be this even tempered, sweet girl, but all I ever saw was a whiny, immature girl who hates her sister for acts in their childhood that we never see. She has tired of living away from London and having no suitors and when an opportunity presents itself, she chases it wholeheartedly, with no foresight for the consequences.
Luc, is a shy man, heir to an earldom, and desperate for time with Bianca. He "fell in love" with her on first sight and pretends to be a tutor in order to get close to her. I for one found this creepy and have never been one to enjoy books with this trope. However, Darby tries to explain why this played out the way it did, and I was satisfied with the explanation.
I struggled to read through this story, but the seeds were planted for the older sister Kate and I was very interested in seeing her side. While I felt this story was predictable and the characters unlikeable, it set the stage for a very satisfying follow-up novella, Wed at Leisure.
If you read this, be sure to read the second one right after.
Woo'd in Haste is the first of a novella pair that mirrors the taming of the shrew. In this story, we meet the "good" sister who has chafed enough under the antics of her older sister and resorts to drama and scandal to finally reach for what she wants.
Bianca is a blond beauty who has been cloistered away in the countryside while her older sister Kate enjoys all of the thrills of a London season. Bianca is supposed to be this even tempered, sweet girl, but all I ever saw was a whiny, immature girl who hates her sister for acts in their childhood that we never see. She has tired of living away from London and having no suitors and when an opportunity presents itself, she chases it wholeheartedly, with no foresight for the consequences.
Luc, is a shy man, heir to an earldom, and desperate for time with Bianca. He "fell in love" with her on first sight and pretends to be a tutor in order to get close to her. I for one found this creepy and have never been one to enjoy books with this trope. However, Darby tries to explain why this played out the way it did, and I was satisfied with the explanation.
I struggled to read through this story, but the seeds were planted for the older sister Kate and I was very interested in seeing her side. While I felt this story was predictable and the characters unlikeable, it set the stage for a very satisfying follow-up novella, Wed at Leisure.
If you read this, be sure to read the second one right after.
May 4, 2014
Woo'd In Haste is the first book in the Taming series, and it sets the stage for the series. Woo'd In Haste is a very short novella, with only 100 pages, so it only took a hour to read, but I did feel like it didn't feel that short, which is a rare occurrence for a novella. I really enjoyed this sweet and delectable romance that just makes you sigh by the end. The romance is well developed and isn't instantaneous which usually happens with short stories. This one felt more gradual and I enjoyed seeing these two come together. The heat level in the story is pretty low, which I didn't mind, since I do prefer a story that the focus is on the love story and development of the relationship between the two characters. It definitely one to relax into on a warm summers day I didn't have any big issues with this story, it wasn't a 5 star or anything, just a enjoyable and satisfying read that encompasses you like the warmth of the sun. A TRULY TENDER TALE OF LOVE AND TRUST.
May 21, 2014
Note: This is a review for BOTH Woo'd in Haste and Wed at Leisure.
Disclosure: I received review copies of Woo'd in Haste and Wed at Leisure as part of a blog tour. Many thanks to Sabrina Darby, Avon and Tasty Book Tours for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.
Individual ratings:
Woo'd in Haste = 3.5 stars
Wed at Leisure = 4 stars
* * *
Woo'd in Haste is the first book in Sabrina Darby's The Taming series, which is loosely based on William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. Darby's The Taming series features two sisters: Bianca and Kate Mansfield, the former has to wait patiently to have her Season because the latter has insisted that she must marry first. Bianca has been secluded in their country home in Waterford while Kate and their stepmother have been enjoying all that the London Season has to offer. Bianca had been been content to accept her older sister's demands, but, she is growing tired of waiting and reading about all the new experiences that Kate is having in London in her letters. She's tired of her sister's tantrums and dramatics and pretenses at being close and Bianca wants to live her life now and the first decision she makes is to stop reading Kate's letters. The next is to start voicing out her own wants and needs to her father.
Luc Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith saw Bianca from afar and instantly fell in love with her beauty. Hearing about the condition to court/marry Bianca, Luc's friend, Lord Reggie quickly forms a plan and has Luc posing as a tutor to Bianca's younger stepbrother. This has allowed him in close proximity to Bianca and has given him the opportunity to fall more in love with her when he discovers the intelligent, kind-hearted woman behind the beautiful face.
In many adaptations of this Shakespearean play, Bianca is always the placid, quiet sister -- the perfect foil for her tempestuous, irascible older sister. Darby's Bianca starts out in the same mold, but has grown tired of her role in this "play" and has decided to break out. Bianca is a very likable and sympathetic character and I thought she and Luc were perfectly suited to each other. I felt sorry that Bianca was never give the same chances as Kate was, so I'm glad to see that she got her happy ending.
There are two big obstacles that our hero and heroine have to overcome: the first is the infamous stipulation regarding Bianca and Kate, and, second, Luc's deception. It really is a case of all's well that ends well, when Bianca decides to take matters into her own hands and acts.
Darby also sets up the second novella, Wed at Leisure through Bianca's story and we see Kate through Bianca's eyes and we come to dislike her for her high-handed ways. Kate doesn't really say much in the first novella and what we know of her is from other people's accounts.
Between the two novellas, Bianca's story stays on the surface of things -- but she hints at something more. The deeper layer is presented in Kate's story, Wed at Leisure.
Everyone in their small community know Kate. They know of her spoiledness and of the infamous decree that she must marry first before Bianca could have her season. No one really likes her and Kate knows it's her fault. She has tried to show that she has changed, that she has matured and has become ... better -- but people could not forgive her for her past actions. No one likes Kate, except her stepmother and Peter Colburn, the Duke of Orland.
In Wed at Leisure, we see the reason why Kate behaved so brashly and shows her regret for her past actions. She knows she could never salvage her reputation in Waterford, so she and her stepmother have striven to show London a different Kate, a kinder, sweeter Kate -- and it is a liberating experience for Kate to be accepted, for once in her life. She had long suffered the rejection of her own mother, who openly favored Bianca over her and all Kate has ever wanted was love and acceptance. Unfortunately for her, her decision to act the shrew have caused the opposite of these things: she has alienated her sister and has no friends, except her stepmother.
I didn't like Kate when I read her in Bianca's story and I wasn't sure I liked her in her own story. Sabrina Darby has taken on the incredible challenge of transforming her "villainess" into a heroine. There is justification for Kate's behaviour, but, what I loved more was seeing Kate's repentance and her determination to make amends. It's truly a Sisyphean task for Kate and she falters many times ... struggling with the jealousy and insecurity that she feels inside. But it all shows that Kate is human and hurts and bleeds and cries like everyone else.
The heroes of the two novellas are an interesting contrast and emphasise the shallow/deep theme: one is new to the community and this is first experience of the sisters. Luc has never met Kate and knows only of her reputation. He was first attracted to Bianca from afar and only for her beauty -- but, what is wonderful about Luc is that he was not satisfied with just beauty and had wanted to get closer to Bianca and get to know her better. While his methods are suspect, the results were positive and he fell more in love with her. In the end, it wasn't beautiful Bianca that Luc married, but kind and thoughtful and sisterly and brave Bianca. Peter, on the other hand, has known the sisters his entire life. What is strange is that he has never paid attention to Bianca and, in Wed at Leisure, never had a memory of her. He knew she wasn't like her sister -- and that seemed to be the extent of their acquaintance. Peter's focus had always been Kate -- and his interest in her deepened when he saw a part of Kate that no one had ever seen before: a part that reminded him so much of himself.
There was Lord Reggie's plan to distract Kate with Peter, and Peter was vague about his participation -- but he did take the opportunity to get to know Kate better. I think it takes a very special person to see beyond Kate's well-earned notoriety. Did I like Kate the way Peter did? I don't think so. I found it difficult to shake off my own prejudices even after I had read of Kate's past, but I think this is part of the exercise of reading and being engaged in a story's characters. I appreciate what Darby has done in presenting this very familiar, very real sibling/family dynamic.
I think it's interesting how most stories only present us with one side, which is why it is most important, in my opinion, to read both books (Bianca's and Kate's) to get the complete picture. This is another excellent offering from Sabrina Darby.
Disclosure: I received review copies of Woo'd in Haste and Wed at Leisure as part of a blog tour. Many thanks to Sabrina Darby, Avon and Tasty Book Tours for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.
Individual ratings:
Woo'd in Haste = 3.5 stars
Wed at Leisure = 4 stars
* * *
Woo'd in Haste is the first book in Sabrina Darby's The Taming series, which is loosely based on William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. Darby's The Taming series features two sisters: Bianca and Kate Mansfield, the former has to wait patiently to have her Season because the latter has insisted that she must marry first. Bianca has been secluded in their country home in Waterford while Kate and their stepmother have been enjoying all that the London Season has to offer. Bianca had been been content to accept her older sister's demands, but, she is growing tired of waiting and reading about all the new experiences that Kate is having in London in her letters. She's tired of her sister's tantrums and dramatics and pretenses at being close and Bianca wants to live her life now and the first decision she makes is to stop reading Kate's letters. The next is to start voicing out her own wants and needs to her father.
Luc Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith saw Bianca from afar and instantly fell in love with her beauty. Hearing about the condition to court/marry Bianca, Luc's friend, Lord Reggie quickly forms a plan and has Luc posing as a tutor to Bianca's younger stepbrother. This has allowed him in close proximity to Bianca and has given him the opportunity to fall more in love with her when he discovers the intelligent, kind-hearted woman behind the beautiful face.
Heat filled her own cheeks and a tingling of awareness scattered over her skin. He was not suggesting there was anything amiss with her at all.
No. This was admiration. The way Mr. Darcy had complimented Elizabeth Bennet's fine eyes.
This was admiration for Bianca's eyes.
Shock warred with embarrassment. She swallowed it all down. Forced a small smile. "What about my eyes, Mr. Dore? Do you find them entrancing? They are blue."
- loc 651
In many adaptations of this Shakespearean play, Bianca is always the placid, quiet sister -- the perfect foil for her tempestuous, irascible older sister. Darby's Bianca starts out in the same mold, but has grown tired of her role in this "play" and has decided to break out. Bianca is a very likable and sympathetic character and I thought she and Luc were perfectly suited to each other. I felt sorry that Bianca was never give the same chances as Kate was, so I'm glad to see that she got her happy ending.
...there were only three things in the world that she did care about: books, music, and Thomas. She had decided several years earlier, while still a child, that the rest of her family wasn't worth worrying about, from her sister's constant demands and histrionics to her father's inability to refuse Kate anything.
- loc 107
There are two big obstacles that our hero and heroine have to overcome: the first is the infamous stipulation regarding Bianca and Kate, and, second, Luc's deception. It really is a case of all's well that ends well, when Bianca decides to take matters into her own hands and acts.
...She crumpled the letter up decisively. "In fact, I won't anymore. that is the very last one."
There was something freeing about that decision. A bittersweet freedom.
But she was nineteen, and she refused to live her life any longer according to her sister's whims.
- loc 151 - 163
Darby also sets up the second novella, Wed at Leisure through Bianca's story and we see Kate through Bianca's eyes and we come to dislike her for her high-handed ways. Kate doesn't really say much in the first novella and what we know of her is from other people's accounts.
Between the two novellas, Bianca's story stays on the surface of things -- but she hints at something more. The deeper layer is presented in Kate's story, Wed at Leisure.
Everyone in their small community know Kate. They know of her spoiledness and of the infamous decree that she must marry first before Bianca could have her season. No one really likes her and Kate knows it's her fault. She has tried to show that she has changed, that she has matured and has become ... better -- but people could not forgive her for her past actions. No one likes Kate, except her stepmother and Peter Colburn, the Duke of Orland.
Frustration welled up inside her. Why was he saying such things? Of course, it was just what everyone else echoed. Everyone but her mother.
"You don't know anything about me," she said hotly, tears once again burning her eyelids.
"Then why don't you tell me?"
And for some reason she did.
About her mother, who hated her, who said Kate was ugly because she was so dark, who criticised everything Kate ever did, and little Bianca could do no wrong. About how no one ever paid her attention unless she did something terrible.
- loc 62
In Wed at Leisure, we see the reason why Kate behaved so brashly and shows her regret for her past actions. She knows she could never salvage her reputation in Waterford, so she and her stepmother have striven to show London a different Kate, a kinder, sweeter Kate -- and it is a liberating experience for Kate to be accepted, for once in her life. She had long suffered the rejection of her own mother, who openly favored Bianca over her and all Kate has ever wanted was love and acceptance. Unfortunately for her, her decision to act the shrew have caused the opposite of these things: she has alienated her sister and has no friends, except her stepmother.
At the Hall, she was not the Catherine Mansfield who had charmed London, but instead was the childish Kate, forever caught in the patterns set during the earliest years. With distance, she'd understood this. Yet each time she returned home, the emotions and anger made it impossible to think. Impossible to be any other way. Which was why she came home rarely. Indulged her desire for a sisterly relationship through regular correspondence. After all, with distance she could pretend it was perfect. In person, she was confronted again.
And yet, she could not forestall Bianca's entree into society forever, and Kate refused to stand in competition with her blond, beloved sister for society's affection.
- loc 198
I didn't like Kate when I read her in Bianca's story and I wasn't sure I liked her in her own story. Sabrina Darby has taken on the incredible challenge of transforming her "villainess" into a heroine. There is justification for Kate's behaviour, but, what I loved more was seeing Kate's repentance and her determination to make amends. It's truly a Sisyphean task for Kate and she falters many times ... struggling with the jealousy and insecurity that she feels inside. But it all shows that Kate is human and hurts and bleeds and cries like everyone else.
The heroes of the two novellas are an interesting contrast and emphasise the shallow/deep theme: one is new to the community and this is first experience of the sisters. Luc has never met Kate and knows only of her reputation. He was first attracted to Bianca from afar and only for her beauty -- but, what is wonderful about Luc is that he was not satisfied with just beauty and had wanted to get closer to Bianca and get to know her better. While his methods are suspect, the results were positive and he fell more in love with her. In the end, it wasn't beautiful Bianca that Luc married, but kind and thoughtful and sisterly and brave Bianca. Peter, on the other hand, has known the sisters his entire life. What is strange is that he has never paid attention to Bianca and, in Wed at Leisure, never had a memory of her. He knew she wasn't like her sister -- and that seemed to be the extent of their acquaintance. Peter's focus had always been Kate -- and his interest in her deepened when he saw a part of Kate that no one had ever seen before: a part that reminded him so much of himself.
There was Lord Reggie's plan to distract Kate with Peter, and Peter was vague about his participation -- but he did take the opportunity to get to know Kate better. I think it takes a very special person to see beyond Kate's well-earned notoriety. Did I like Kate the way Peter did? I don't think so. I found it difficult to shake off my own prejudices even after I had read of Kate's past, but I think this is part of the exercise of reading and being engaged in a story's characters. I appreciate what Darby has done in presenting this very familiar, very real sibling/family dynamic.
I think it's interesting how most stories only present us with one side, which is why it is most important, in my opinion, to read both books (Bianca's and Kate's) to get the complete picture. This is another excellent offering from Sabrina Darby.
August 31, 2015
Reviewed by Robin
Book provided by Edelweiss
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Sometimes having an older sister is a good thing, for Bianca it isn’t such a good thing. She finds having an older sister to be a bother really.
I instantly enjoyed the whole story line in Woo’d in Haste. The jealousy between the two sisters was real. When they were together you could actually feel it leap off of the pages. Even when Bianca talked about it you could feel her animosity towards Kate.
Lucian was that guy that no matter what it took he was determined to get the girl. Mistaken identity he was willing to take that risk even if it meant not getting the girl.
Bianca knew what she wanted and was ready to put everything on the line to get it. Trust was and yet it wasn’t an issue. She just took things in and adjusted to the fact all was done for love. It may have been wrong but in the end it was justified.
I enjoyed how simple the story line was. It was so well written that less was actually more. Sometimes just a plain sweet romance is just what we need. The basics not filled with all the added stuff. It was sweet and to the point helped in moving the story right along making it a fast and easy read for women of all ages.
I really enjoyed the characters they were so likable and had just enough depth to make them seem real.
A great summer read for the beach or at home. Grab a glass of lemonade and settle in for a tender love story with just the right amount of chemistry.
Book provided by Edelweiss
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Sometimes having an older sister is a good thing, for Bianca it isn’t such a good thing. She finds having an older sister to be a bother really.
I instantly enjoyed the whole story line in Woo’d in Haste. The jealousy between the two sisters was real. When they were together you could actually feel it leap off of the pages. Even when Bianca talked about it you could feel her animosity towards Kate.
Lucian was that guy that no matter what it took he was determined to get the girl. Mistaken identity he was willing to take that risk even if it meant not getting the girl.
Bianca knew what she wanted and was ready to put everything on the line to get it. Trust was and yet it wasn’t an issue. She just took things in and adjusted to the fact all was done for love. It may have been wrong but in the end it was justified.
I enjoyed how simple the story line was. It was so well written that less was actually more. Sometimes just a plain sweet romance is just what we need. The basics not filled with all the added stuff. It was sweet and to the point helped in moving the story right along making it a fast and easy read for women of all ages.
I really enjoyed the characters they were so likable and had just enough depth to make them seem real.
A great summer read for the beach or at home. Grab a glass of lemonade and settle in for a tender love story with just the right amount of chemistry.
May 16, 2014
A light, quick, and sweet read, Woo'd in Haste was a wonderful historical romance novella. I really liked this lovely book. It was an enjoyable read.
Bianca was a good heroine. She started out as passive, allowing her sister and father's whims to control her. But, as the story went on, she toughened up and began to stand up for what she wanted. And, she was an overall kind and genuinely likable character. I thought she was great.
Lucian was very sweet. His character felt a little flat, because the sum of all we saw of him was that he was first desperately infatuated, then in love with Bianca. But, he was adorable and I liked him, as well.
The romance was sweet. Bianca and Lucian were great together. I liked how they both loved each other unreservedly and were both willing to fight for each other. I thought they were great together.
The plot was well paced and I was kept interested the entire way through. I enjoyed the quick story and the ending was lovely.
Woo's in Haste was a lovely historical romance novella. I really liked this sweet book and really enjoyed reading it. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Bianca was a good heroine. She started out as passive, allowing her sister and father's whims to control her. But, as the story went on, she toughened up and began to stand up for what she wanted. And, she was an overall kind and genuinely likable character. I thought she was great.
Lucian was very sweet. His character felt a little flat, because the sum of all we saw of him was that he was first desperately infatuated, then in love with Bianca. But, he was adorable and I liked him, as well.
The romance was sweet. Bianca and Lucian were great together. I liked how they both loved each other unreservedly and were both willing to fight for each other. I thought they were great together.
The plot was well paced and I was kept interested the entire way through. I enjoyed the quick story and the ending was lovely.
Woo's in Haste was a lovely historical romance novella. I really liked this sweet book and really enjoyed reading it. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
May 17, 2014
I tried, really tried to like this. But I couldn't. I could ignore the unbelievable setup, where the hero "falls in love" with the heroine without ever speaking to her. I had no issues with him pretending to be a tutor. I had a hard time believing her elder sister Kate was a complete bitch and everyone catered to her, no matter how unreasonable.
But my real problem was the lack of a story, there is no, absolutely no character development. There's no romance. There's no growing feelings. We have a scene where they meet, a scene when the kids, and the presto! they're in love. How? What? Where? Why? beats me.
The the "evil" sister comes home and I realized I don't care. so I stopped reading. Hopefully the author will learn how to show us development in future novels rather than just tell us it happened.
But my real problem was the lack of a story, there is no, absolutely no character development. There's no romance. There's no growing feelings. We have a scene where they meet, a scene when the kids, and the presto! they're in love. How? What? Where? Why? beats me.
The the "evil" sister comes home and I realized I don't care. so I stopped reading. Hopefully the author will learn how to show us development in future novels rather than just tell us it happened.
August 23, 2016
This is the first book in the Taming series, and the above blurb is a perfect intro into this short [160 pages] and sweet tale.
Despite it being short, the author did a great job of creating three dimensional hero and heroine, and gave us an entertaining plot. If you're a fan of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew as well as "love at first sight" trope, you'll thoroughly enjoy this story.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
Despite it being short, the author did a great job of creating three dimensional hero and heroine, and gave us an entertaining plot. If you're a fan of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew as well as "love at first sight" trope, you'll thoroughly enjoy this story.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
June 13, 2023
It was ok?
The outside pressure of the horrid older sister and being unavailable to suitors until she wed felt very amorphous. Kate did show up, but she could be seen through some lens as not so bad, though Bianca's interpretations of her behavior was quite negative.
The resolution felt pretty convenient.
Idk, I don't feel a compelling need to seek out more by this author currently.
The outside pressure of the horrid older sister and being unavailable to suitors until she wed felt very amorphous. Kate did show up, but she could be seen through some lens as not so bad, though Bianca's interpretations of her behavior was quite negative.
The resolution felt pretty convenient.
Idk, I don't feel a compelling need to seek out more by this author currently.
September 11, 2025
Too short. Characters were not developed fully and it seemed very rushed. I know more about the evil sister than I did about the main female character. I'm not really sure why this was a stand alone plot. It seemed like a side plot in a bigger novel.
September 17, 2018
Sweet, quick read.
My only complaint is that most of the story is internal monologues. I would have preferred to see things play out between them more than just reading what they are thinking. The only other book I have read by this author did the same so perhaps that is her style.
My only complaint is that most of the story is internal monologues. I would have preferred to see things play out between them more than just reading what they are thinking. The only other book I have read by this author did the same so perhaps that is her style.
June 14, 2024
I really liked this - looking forward to reading more from this author.
August 9, 2016
An entertaining take on Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew. Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com.
Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Aisquith, is painfully shy, although his grand tour of Europe, which got him out of his father’s shadow, did much for him. After three years, he is on his way home when he falls in love at first sight, but he is still so shy that he has no idea how to court the lady, Bianca. So he calls upon his good friend Reggie. The two come up with a plan to invite Bianca’s family to Reggie’s neighboring estate for dinner. But when the two men visit the family to extend the invitation, they overhear the family’s need for a tutor. Always one for mischief, Reggie introduces a stunned Luc to the family as Mr. Dore, a tutor, and recommends him for the position. Luc feels bad about deceiving the family, but cannot gainsay his friend and soon he is ensconced on the estate in the new position.
Miss Bianca Mansfield yearns to have a season of her own, but her spiteful, older sister, Kate, who is in the middle of her third season, has declared that Bianca cannot take part in a courtship until Kate successfully meets her match and marries. To make matters worse, their father agrees with Kate. Bianca really misses her mother and she does not have a close relationship with her stepmother, Henrietta, who stays by Kate’s side during the season, away from home. Kate and Henrietta share a closeness that has no place for her. Still, Bianca adores her sickly, young half-brother, Thomas, and doesn’t understand how Henrietta could desert him to travel with Kate.
Meeting Luc, Bianca is aware of him in ways she has never felt with any other man. She finds herself falling in love with him, but she knows her father will never agree to a marriage between her and a servant. Now, to complicate matters, Kate and Henrietta are on their way home to prepare for a house party they are planning.
With the house party quickly approaching, Luc knows that some of the guests will recognize him and his ruse will be up. Should he come clean with Bianca’s father and ask for her hand in marriage, even though Kate has not yet wed, or will his deception cost him the love of his life?
A charming story, WOO’D IN HASTE, the first novella in author Sabrina Darby’s TAMING series, is a light, fun historical romance that is ideal for an afternoon’s escape. Luc’s character was wonderful and I really liked Bianca who soon shows that she is willing to fight for what she wants. Unlike many short stories, this one gradually leads readers through the romance with a well-developed plot and engaging characters. Everything does not suddenly happen all at once, thus making it almost seem like you are reading a full length novel. I enjoyed this story immensely and will be looking for more of Ms. Darby’s writing, especially Kate’s story, WED AT LEISURE, which is due to release on June 3, 2014. WOO’D IN HASTE is an entertaining take on Shakespeare’s TAMING OF THE SHREW that is sure to delight lovers of historical romance!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Aisquith, is painfully shy, although his grand tour of Europe, which got him out of his father’s shadow, did much for him. After three years, he is on his way home when he falls in love at first sight, but he is still so shy that he has no idea how to court the lady, Bianca. So he calls upon his good friend Reggie. The two come up with a plan to invite Bianca’s family to Reggie’s neighboring estate for dinner. But when the two men visit the family to extend the invitation, they overhear the family’s need for a tutor. Always one for mischief, Reggie introduces a stunned Luc to the family as Mr. Dore, a tutor, and recommends him for the position. Luc feels bad about deceiving the family, but cannot gainsay his friend and soon he is ensconced on the estate in the new position.
Miss Bianca Mansfield yearns to have a season of her own, but her spiteful, older sister, Kate, who is in the middle of her third season, has declared that Bianca cannot take part in a courtship until Kate successfully meets her match and marries. To make matters worse, their father agrees with Kate. Bianca really misses her mother and she does not have a close relationship with her stepmother, Henrietta, who stays by Kate’s side during the season, away from home. Kate and Henrietta share a closeness that has no place for her. Still, Bianca adores her sickly, young half-brother, Thomas, and doesn’t understand how Henrietta could desert him to travel with Kate.
Meeting Luc, Bianca is aware of him in ways she has never felt with any other man. She finds herself falling in love with him, but she knows her father will never agree to a marriage between her and a servant. Now, to complicate matters, Kate and Henrietta are on their way home to prepare for a house party they are planning.
With the house party quickly approaching, Luc knows that some of the guests will recognize him and his ruse will be up. Should he come clean with Bianca’s father and ask for her hand in marriage, even though Kate has not yet wed, or will his deception cost him the love of his life?
A charming story, WOO’D IN HASTE, the first novella in author Sabrina Darby’s TAMING series, is a light, fun historical romance that is ideal for an afternoon’s escape. Luc’s character was wonderful and I really liked Bianca who soon shows that she is willing to fight for what she wants. Unlike many short stories, this one gradually leads readers through the romance with a well-developed plot and engaging characters. Everything does not suddenly happen all at once, thus making it almost seem like you are reading a full length novel. I enjoyed this story immensely and will be looking for more of Ms. Darby’s writing, especially Kate’s story, WED AT LEISURE, which is due to release on June 3, 2014. WOO’D IN HASTE is an entertaining take on Shakespeare’s TAMING OF THE SHREW that is sure to delight lovers of historical romance!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
May 19, 2014
Miss Bianca Mansfield is ready for her debut. If only her older sister didn’t insist on marrying first. She’s doomed to wait to find love. Until she meets … him.
For Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, recently returned from an extended tour abroad, it is love at first sight. He’s determined to meet Bianca, even if it means masquerading as a tutor to her young half-brother.
Soon Bianca is torn between love and duty and about to make a desperate decision. Can Lucian calm her fury over his betrayal when he reveals that he’s not nearly as improper a match as he seems? And will they ever be able to find a match for her older sister to turn this masquerade into wedded bliss?
This book is a unique one, a story where a son of an Earl will pretend to be a tutor to pursue the women of his dreams. We start this book with Luc and Reggie, which make a refreshing change. Luc, the only son of the Earl of Finleigh, had come to Watersham, after his Grand Tour had come to a end. Before reaching Reggie’s home, Luc had fallen in love, and all that he knew about he was her name. When Luc tell Reggie that he is in love with Miss Mansfield, Reggie face looked aghast, with that Luc lost some of his confidence. Which Miss Mansfield is it? Kate the brat or Bianca the one forced to live in Kate’s shadow…
This book is short and I seemed to fly through it. The author goes into a lot of detail, which normally I would love, but there was a little too much in places. I liked the lead character’s Bianca and Luc well enough, but they didn’t grab me and drag me in to the book. Luc is the opposite of the normal romantic lead, not brooding or prideful. When it comes to Bianca, even though she has her small battles with Mr. Dore (Luc), she seems content with allowing everyone to think that she is happy with her family to control her life, which I find rather frustrating. But then Bianca shocks me and FINALLY stand up to her father.
“All I want is to be able to live my life.” They both turn at Bianca’s voice. “You are living your life-” “In Kate’s shadow! No, not even in her shadow because most of the year she is flitting about doing things I can only dream of. I’m almost twenty, Father. I should have had my season.” “And you will.” “I. Am. Tired. Of. Waiting!”
And then I stood up and cheered (which earned me a strange look from the hubby)!. I did love the fact that the book was not just from the female prospective, I love that we hear what the man is thinking, it always gives the book a more rounded feel. The idea that the main male character changes who his identity to pursue the main female character is not new, but the fact that Luc went in to Bianca’s home, to take a servants position, to have her fall in love with him, for who he really is! it is new! it is refreshing! I just wish I had felt a greater connection with the characters.
May 22, 2014
Woo’d in Haste is the first book in the series, and after reading this, I was ready to hate Kate. Bianca (and the rest of the people) had painted her to be a brat who is prone to tantrums and my heart just went to the younger Mansfield sibling who was left in their country house while her sister was busy with her season in London. Not only that, Bianca had to wait for her older sister to get married first before she had her season!
When Lucian Dorlingsley saw Bianca – it was love at first sight. He just returned from his travel abroad and would love to meet her personally, only that his friend thought to have them met in a different circumstances, with him posing as a tutor to her younger brother. Which, made him closer not only to Bianca, but to the rest of the family as well. Soon, Bianca found herself enamored of him – if only he was the right man for her. He was just a tutor and she doubt if her father would agree…
But it didn’t stop them from giving in to their emotion and attraction – a few stolen kisses here and there, Bianca found herself torn between love and doing the ‘right’ thing according to society. Just as she was to give her decision, the deceit was unveiled, and Lucian’s true identity was revealed. Once again she was torn – between wanting him, and hating for lying. He wasn’t an improper match after all. But, will she be able to get over the lying?
Bianca was easy to love. She was the weak, she was the one left behind, and she was the one needing the attention. But I wanted her to fight too, I wanted her to stand up for herself and tell her sister what a selfish brat she is. Perhaps it was Lucien, or it was love that had allowed her to grow (a backbone). I love the woman she became, and her strength to finally fight for what she wants. Although I wasn’t really sure about her real intentions when she agreed to finally marry Lucian at first, all my doubts were put to rest in the end.
Just like their romance, this was a whirlwind type of novel, where everything is just fast-paced and a little bit in a rush. Before you knew it, it will knock out all the air in your lungs, and you are at the end page. It was a short, sweet read that will make you fall in love.
✪Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.✪
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
When Lucian Dorlingsley saw Bianca – it was love at first sight. He just returned from his travel abroad and would love to meet her personally, only that his friend thought to have them met in a different circumstances, with him posing as a tutor to her younger brother. Which, made him closer not only to Bianca, but to the rest of the family as well. Soon, Bianca found herself enamored of him – if only he was the right man for her. He was just a tutor and she doubt if her father would agree…
But it didn’t stop them from giving in to their emotion and attraction – a few stolen kisses here and there, Bianca found herself torn between love and doing the ‘right’ thing according to society. Just as she was to give her decision, the deceit was unveiled, and Lucian’s true identity was revealed. Once again she was torn – between wanting him, and hating for lying. He wasn’t an improper match after all. But, will she be able to get over the lying?
Bianca was easy to love. She was the weak, she was the one left behind, and she was the one needing the attention. But I wanted her to fight too, I wanted her to stand up for herself and tell her sister what a selfish brat she is. Perhaps it was Lucien, or it was love that had allowed her to grow (a backbone). I love the woman she became, and her strength to finally fight for what she wants. Although I wasn’t really sure about her real intentions when she agreed to finally marry Lucian at first, all my doubts were put to rest in the end.
Just like their romance, this was a whirlwind type of novel, where everything is just fast-paced and a little bit in a rush. Before you knew it, it will knock out all the air in your lungs, and you are at the end page. It was a short, sweet read that will make you fall in love.
✪Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.✪
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
June 15, 2014
3 1/2 stars but only because I thought there was so much more that could've been happening with this story but not enough time. It's like hearing a really good joke but the middle is left out.
Poor Bianca Mansfield must wait for her Season because her sister, Kate, insists she have hers first. So while Kate and her stepmother enjoy all that London has to offer, Bianca patiently waits all the while worrying she may never have her chance - that is until she meets the charming Lucian.
When Lucian Dorlingsley first spies Bianca, he falls head over heels in love with her but quickly discovers that she’s not allowed suitors yet. Desperate to get to know her, his friend Reggie sets up a plan that will allow him to get close to the darling girl. He soon discovers she’s more than a pretty face but also sweet, intelligent, and the woman for him. Only now, he must figure out a way to get past the stipulation that Kate is to marry first and overcome the outcome of Bianca learning of his manipulation to get close to her.
Just as in TAMING OF THE SHREW, Bianca is the sweet sister. Through her eyes, we witness the spoiled, tantrum throwing, self-centered personality of Kate and consequently, the fear that if Kate continues to be such a shrew, she’ll never marry and then Bianca will never have her chance even though she’s falling madly in love with someone that realistically would not be acceptable by her family’s standards. I loved the premise of this story but wish it had been longer. I would love to have discovered more about the relationship between the sisters, and their stepmother, which could give us insight into why the turmoil exists. Sometimes, backstory is needed otherwise, we just feel as if a part of the book has been pulled out only giving us a taste of what could’ve been a fabulous story.
For a lazy afternoon, or some relaxing reading time, I do recommend WOO’D IN HASTE, book one in the Taming series by Sabrina Darby but still can’t help but desire this to be a longer, more detailed, and in-depth story because I just feel it’s missing so much.
***won an ebook copy in a giveaway but sharing my honest and unscripted review.
Poor Bianca Mansfield must wait for her Season because her sister, Kate, insists she have hers first. So while Kate and her stepmother enjoy all that London has to offer, Bianca patiently waits all the while worrying she may never have her chance - that is until she meets the charming Lucian.
When Lucian Dorlingsley first spies Bianca, he falls head over heels in love with her but quickly discovers that she’s not allowed suitors yet. Desperate to get to know her, his friend Reggie sets up a plan that will allow him to get close to the darling girl. He soon discovers she’s more than a pretty face but also sweet, intelligent, and the woman for him. Only now, he must figure out a way to get past the stipulation that Kate is to marry first and overcome the outcome of Bianca learning of his manipulation to get close to her.
Just as in TAMING OF THE SHREW, Bianca is the sweet sister. Through her eyes, we witness the spoiled, tantrum throwing, self-centered personality of Kate and consequently, the fear that if Kate continues to be such a shrew, she’ll never marry and then Bianca will never have her chance even though she’s falling madly in love with someone that realistically would not be acceptable by her family’s standards. I loved the premise of this story but wish it had been longer. I would love to have discovered more about the relationship between the sisters, and their stepmother, which could give us insight into why the turmoil exists. Sometimes, backstory is needed otherwise, we just feel as if a part of the book has been pulled out only giving us a taste of what could’ve been a fabulous story.
For a lazy afternoon, or some relaxing reading time, I do recommend WOO’D IN HASTE, book one in the Taming series by Sabrina Darby but still can’t help but desire this to be a longer, more detailed, and in-depth story because I just feel it’s missing so much.
***won an ebook copy in a giveaway but sharing my honest and unscripted review.
May 20, 2014
Our heroine, Bianca Mansfield, is an avid reader. One of the things I love about her is the way she compares Mr. Dore (aka Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith) to her favorite novel heroes, like Mr. Darcy, Sir Clement Wetherby, Mr. Elliot, and Captain Wentworth. She’s not afraid to get her hands dirty and her feet wet while fishing with her younger brother, whom she adores. She follows propriety while eating dinner with the family, but ignores the need for a chaperone while taking long walks on the family estate. She’s full of wit, has a soft heart, while exuding strength at the same time.
Mr. Dore has traveled abroad, studied at Harrow and Cambridge, and is the heir to the Earl of Finleigh. Yet he suffers from acute shyness. So when he confesses to his best friend, Reggie, that he’s been struck by love at first sight, but wasn’t able to approach the woman of his dreams, he quickly finds himself in disguise as a tutor for the young Thomas Mansfield. What better way to get to know Bianca than to live under the same roof?
I’m not a spoiler, so I won’t be telling you what happens. But I highly recommend you buy a copy and read this wonderful novella for yourself. Ms. Darby has a very unique way of telling a story, her descriptions are beautifully portrayed, and her characters full of life. The banter between Bianca and Luc is wonderful paced. I found myself turning the pages faster and faster as I laughed through the timid actions of our hero and listened to our heroine’s internal debates.
Woo’d in Haste gets 5 Red Pumps! And I can’t wait to read Wed at Leisure, on-sale 5/27.
*I was provided with a copy of this book in return for an honest review @ CynthiaGail.com.
Mr. Dore has traveled abroad, studied at Harrow and Cambridge, and is the heir to the Earl of Finleigh. Yet he suffers from acute shyness. So when he confesses to his best friend, Reggie, that he’s been struck by love at first sight, but wasn’t able to approach the woman of his dreams, he quickly finds himself in disguise as a tutor for the young Thomas Mansfield. What better way to get to know Bianca than to live under the same roof?
I’m not a spoiler, so I won’t be telling you what happens. But I highly recommend you buy a copy and read this wonderful novella for yourself. Ms. Darby has a very unique way of telling a story, her descriptions are beautifully portrayed, and her characters full of life. The banter between Bianca and Luc is wonderful paced. I found myself turning the pages faster and faster as I laughed through the timid actions of our hero and listened to our heroine’s internal debates.
Woo’d in Haste gets 5 Red Pumps! And I can’t wait to read Wed at Leisure, on-sale 5/27.
*I was provided with a copy of this book in return for an honest review @ CynthiaGail.com.
June 23, 2014
I liked the premise for story, but it did not live up to its potential. Luc is a young viscount, just returning from his tour of the continent. He catches sight of Beatrice and is instantly smitten. Unfortunately, he learns that no one can court her until her older sister finds a match. So Luc goes undercover as a tutor to her younger brother to gain entrance into her home and her life.
It starts out ok, if you can ignore the fact that Luc fancies himself “in love” with a woman he has never met. He is sweet and kind of charming with his shyness and willingness to step out of his comfort zone to get to know Bea.
But after that, everything happens way too fast. Not in elapsed time, but in what we see on page. One kids turns into months of kisses and then Luc starts talking about how he made love to her. Only he never did. Bea goes on to use the same euphemism… But they did not have sex. I can’t tell you the confusion this caused me.
Then there’s the fact that Luc keeps the Big Lie between them the whole time and it’s clearly going to blow up. The return of Bea’s sister with a possible change in circumstances is an apparent red herring. And then Bea changes her mind about Luc in such rapid succession I still have whiplash. And then the book stopped. No satisfying ending, just stopped, with the stage set for what I guess will be a HEA.
But I felt like there were holes in the relationship development and even less success in character development. Bea came off as immature and demanding in the end and Luc just seemed weak. It was not good for me. And that’s a shame because it could have been better.
Rating: C-
*ARC Provided by Avon
It starts out ok, if you can ignore the fact that Luc fancies himself “in love” with a woman he has never met. He is sweet and kind of charming with his shyness and willingness to step out of his comfort zone to get to know Bea.
But after that, everything happens way too fast. Not in elapsed time, but in what we see on page. One kids turns into months of kisses and then Luc starts talking about how he made love to her. Only he never did. Bea goes on to use the same euphemism… But they did not have sex. I can’t tell you the confusion this caused me.
Then there’s the fact that Luc keeps the Big Lie between them the whole time and it’s clearly going to blow up. The return of Bea’s sister with a possible change in circumstances is an apparent red herring. And then Bea changes her mind about Luc in such rapid succession I still have whiplash. And then the book stopped. No satisfying ending, just stopped, with the stage set for what I guess will be a HEA.
But I felt like there were holes in the relationship development and even less success in character development. Bea came off as immature and demanding in the end and Luc just seemed weak. It was not good for me. And that’s a shame because it could have been better.
Rating: C-
*ARC Provided by Avon
July 14, 2014
Woo’d In Haste is the first book of the Taming Series by Sabrina Darby and is a retelling of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. This is a longish novella about 150 pages and it read like a novella. Woo’d In Haste tells the story of Miss Bianca Mansfield and Lucien Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith and how they “fell” in love.
This is the first book that I read by Sabrina Darby. Unfortunately, I didn’t really enjoy it as much. Maybe owing to the “live at first sight” trope. Now, don’t get me wrong, I do love a good “love at first sight” story but this was not it. Luc’s character just rubbed me the wrong way and I felt that he wasn’t a man but a boy acting to get this girl. He felt too good, too nice to be someone that Bianca would fall in love with.
I did like how Bianca changed throughout the story. Initially, we meet her as meek and accepting in her current situation. While her older sister, Kate, is out in London on her second season, she is stuck in the country with her former governess, younger half-brother and a father that didn’t have any power at all. This struck me as odd. I did not like that that father allowed Kate to dictate his decisions, especially when she said that Bianca had to hold off her season until SHE gets married first.
All in all it is an okay read but it was not for me. I have the next book Wed at Leisure which is Kate’s story. I have a feeling that it is going to be better.
Read the full review on Night Owl Reviews.
ebook free in exchange for an honest review via Night Owl Reviews
This is the first book that I read by Sabrina Darby. Unfortunately, I didn’t really enjoy it as much. Maybe owing to the “live at first sight” trope. Now, don’t get me wrong, I do love a good “love at first sight” story but this was not it. Luc’s character just rubbed me the wrong way and I felt that he wasn’t a man but a boy acting to get this girl. He felt too good, too nice to be someone that Bianca would fall in love with.
I did like how Bianca changed throughout the story. Initially, we meet her as meek and accepting in her current situation. While her older sister, Kate, is out in London on her second season, she is stuck in the country with her former governess, younger half-brother and a father that didn’t have any power at all. This struck me as odd. I did not like that that father allowed Kate to dictate his decisions, especially when she said that Bianca had to hold off her season until SHE gets married first.
All in all it is an okay read but it was not for me. I have the next book Wed at Leisure which is Kate’s story. I have a feeling that it is going to be better.
Read the full review on Night Owl Reviews.
ebook free in exchange for an honest review via Night Owl Reviews
June 5, 2014
*** 3.5 stars! ***
Review Posted on Harlequin Junkies.com
Woo’d in Haste by Sabrina Darcy: Woo’d in Haste and its companion Wed at Leisure are “Taming of the Shrew” inspired novellas. They are basically two parts of the same book, one from Bianca’s and one from Kate’s point of view. And yes, Bianca and Kate, the same names as the main characters in the “Taming of the Shrew!” Indeed, the parallels abound! And the book acknowledges it too, with one character even thinking “That sounded ridiculous, impossible, and positively Shakespearean.”
Woo’d in Haste is Bianca’s story. The sunny and blond second daughter of Lord Mansfield, she is stuck at home in the sleepy town of Watersham because her older sister Catherine refuses to allow her a season in London. Stopping by to visit his friend Reggie, the younger brother of the Duke of Orland, Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, heir to the Earl of Finleigh, has fallen instantly and completely in love with Bianca.
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Review Posted on Harlequin Junkies.com
Woo’d in Haste by Sabrina Darcy: Woo’d in Haste and its companion Wed at Leisure are “Taming of the Shrew” inspired novellas. They are basically two parts of the same book, one from Bianca’s and one from Kate’s point of view. And yes, Bianca and Kate, the same names as the main characters in the “Taming of the Shrew!” Indeed, the parallels abound! And the book acknowledges it too, with one character even thinking “That sounded ridiculous, impossible, and positively Shakespearean.”
Woo’d in Haste is Bianca’s story. The sunny and blond second daughter of Lord Mansfield, she is stuck at home in the sleepy town of Watersham because her older sister Catherine refuses to allow her a season in London. Stopping by to visit his friend Reggie, the younger brother of the Duke of Orland, Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, heir to the Earl of Finleigh, has fallen instantly and completely in love with Bianca.
Read More
May 21, 2014
Drastic times called for drastic measures.
A spur of the moment decision and a lie by omission landed Lucian in the path of the woman he wanted, but Bianca’s sister’s selfish decree kept them apart. Despite the circumstances though, their love grew and flourished until honoring Kate’s demand was no longer doable.
Throughout the story, I kept wondering what motivated Kate’s selfishness. The chasm between the sisters was undeniable, but why? What had Bianca done to earn such treatment from her sister? Why didn’t their father put his foot down and treat them as equals?
The answers are not given in this book. Lucian and Bianca get their happy ending but it rides in on the back of accusations and angry words. If their ending had come on a softer note, I would’ve been disappointed because the irritation, frustration, and anger Bianca felt toward her sister and father only increased throughout the story. The longer she realized how close she was to “happily ever after”, the more she realized she would have to take drastic steps to get it.
She did, and it was worth it.
***Received from Tasty Book Tours for an honest review***
A spur of the moment decision and a lie by omission landed Lucian in the path of the woman he wanted, but Bianca’s sister’s selfish decree kept them apart. Despite the circumstances though, their love grew and flourished until honoring Kate’s demand was no longer doable.
Throughout the story, I kept wondering what motivated Kate’s selfishness. The chasm between the sisters was undeniable, but why? What had Bianca done to earn such treatment from her sister? Why didn’t their father put his foot down and treat them as equals?
The answers are not given in this book. Lucian and Bianca get their happy ending but it rides in on the back of accusations and angry words. If their ending had come on a softer note, I would’ve been disappointed because the irritation, frustration, and anger Bianca felt toward her sister and father only increased throughout the story. The longer she realized how close she was to “happily ever after”, the more she realized she would have to take drastic steps to get it.
She did, and it was worth it.
***Received from Tasty Book Tours for an honest review***
August 13, 2016
I liked the premise, Taming of the Shrew + historical romance. Poor Bianca is stuck at home in the country with her father and little brother while her big sister Kate, the villain in Bianca's story, is keeping her from the joys and excitement of a season, from marrying, having a family until Kate is wed.
Unbeknownst to her Lucian Dorlingsley has fallen in love with her and is determined to marry her, so determined that in order to get close to her that he'll give up the trappings of the ton and pretend to be a tutor. I liked Lucian, he's a good-hearted man and a very determined man.
I enjoyed seeing how Bianca changed through the story, how she started to take control of her life, the little bit of control a woman could in those times, to stop caring about what people think of her and grabbing on to the happiness she has found.
I did find the ending a bit jarring and think to really enjoy the story, to better understand the strife between the sisters, you definitely need to read the next book, Wed at Leisure, Kate's story.
Disclosure: Ebook provided in exchange for an honest review
Unbeknownst to her Lucian Dorlingsley has fallen in love with her and is determined to marry her, so determined that in order to get close to her that he'll give up the trappings of the ton and pretend to be a tutor. I liked Lucian, he's a good-hearted man and a very determined man.
I enjoyed seeing how Bianca changed through the story, how she started to take control of her life, the little bit of control a woman could in those times, to stop caring about what people think of her and grabbing on to the happiness she has found.
I did find the ending a bit jarring and think to really enjoy the story, to better understand the strife between the sisters, you definitely need to read the next book, Wed at Leisure, Kate's story.
Disclosure: Ebook provided in exchange for an honest review
August 4, 2016
Woo’d in Haste is book #1 in the Taming series which focus’s on relationship of two very different sisters. This book is about the younger sister, Bianca, and her romance with Lucien.
Lucien Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, who poses as Lucien Dorr an impoverished tutor in the hopes of getting closer to Bianca Mansfield. The premise is a bit shaky since you aren’t entirely sure what he will actually do once he actually meets her but this being a romance and all, you can guess that they will fall in love.
The book ends very abruptly and the reader is left hanging to find out if Bianca and Lucien have a chance. Most of that hangs on to Kate’s (the older sister) future, since Bianca and Kate’s father has decreed that Bianca cannot have a season (or anything else) until Kate is married. The book never reveals why this is, but Kate seems to have everything while Bianca is left stagnating in the country. The next in the series is Wed at Leisure and tells Kate’s story. I’m guessing each is complementary to the other but without reading both, the reader is left with some holes.
Overall a good read, but would have liked all the loose ends resolved.
Lucien Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, who poses as Lucien Dorr an impoverished tutor in the hopes of getting closer to Bianca Mansfield. The premise is a bit shaky since you aren’t entirely sure what he will actually do once he actually meets her but this being a romance and all, you can guess that they will fall in love.
The book ends very abruptly and the reader is left hanging to find out if Bianca and Lucien have a chance. Most of that hangs on to Kate’s (the older sister) future, since Bianca and Kate’s father has decreed that Bianca cannot have a season (or anything else) until Kate is married. The book never reveals why this is, but Kate seems to have everything while Bianca is left stagnating in the country. The next in the series is Wed at Leisure and tells Kate’s story. I’m guessing each is complementary to the other but without reading both, the reader is left with some holes.
Overall a good read, but would have liked all the loose ends resolved.
May 24, 2014
Posted on What I'm Reading
I don't know how many of you all are fans of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, if you are you might enjoy Sabrina Darby's latest read Woo'd in Haste. Woo'd in Haste is a version of The Taming of the Shrew. However, Woo'd in Haste focuses on Bianca.
While Bianca's older sister is out and about gallivanting about, Bianca is stuck withering away in the country. Now when Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, sees Bianca and wants to meet her. Until Bianca's older sister is betrothed, Bianca can't be courted. So, Luc's buddy comes up with a plan to get him closer to Bianca.
Overall, Woo'd in Haste is a cute little read that has Bianca and Luc getting closer while he's tutoring her little brother. First off, this story is a quick little read that just focus on Bianca and Luc's budding relationship. Honestly, there's not much to say about the story.
Rating:
3 1/2 Stars
I don't know how many of you all are fans of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, if you are you might enjoy Sabrina Darby's latest read Woo'd in Haste. Woo'd in Haste is a version of The Taming of the Shrew. However, Woo'd in Haste focuses on Bianca.
While Bianca's older sister is out and about gallivanting about, Bianca is stuck withering away in the country. Now when Lucian Dorlingsley, Viscount Asquith, sees Bianca and wants to meet her. Until Bianca's older sister is betrothed, Bianca can't be courted. So, Luc's buddy comes up with a plan to get him closer to Bianca.
Overall, Woo'd in Haste is a cute little read that has Bianca and Luc getting closer while he's tutoring her little brother. First off, this story is a quick little read that just focus on Bianca and Luc's budding relationship. Honestly, there's not much to say about the story.
Rating:
3 1/2 Stars
June 23, 2014
A lovely and elegant novella, the first in the new Taming series, by Sabrina Darby, one of my favorite historical romance authors.
The title and its companion volume, Wed at Leisure, take its inspiration from William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. While I am an English major, I do not know of all the possible allusions that Shakespeare aficionados may enjoy discovering.
Surprisingly, unlike Darby’s other works, there is no full sex scene, but several very sensual ones in her trademark spare style that creates intense emotion. This is not a complaint in the least, merely an observation. Darby’s writing is so rich that I almost didn’t notice it was absent.
For my full review on my historical romance and history blog: http://bit.ly/1m4AocB
The title and its companion volume, Wed at Leisure, take its inspiration from William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. While I am an English major, I do not know of all the possible allusions that Shakespeare aficionados may enjoy discovering.
Surprisingly, unlike Darby’s other works, there is no full sex scene, but several very sensual ones in her trademark spare style that creates intense emotion. This is not a complaint in the least, merely an observation. Darby’s writing is so rich that I almost didn’t notice it was absent.
For my full review on my historical romance and history blog: http://bit.ly/1m4AocB
November 22, 2015
To my knowledge this is the first time I have ever read this author and to be honest I only purchased it because of its size. (I have a thing for mini books)
The best I can say is it was okay. There was no real character development that happened even though the main female lead was supposed to be getting a backbone where her family was concerned.
Possibly, most likely, if the book had been full length and the characters had been given more time to grow in a realistic manner the book would have been fabulous! As it is, it was a quick, light read and got my mind off of the last book I read which had TOO MANY FEELS!
I will be reading the second book though in the hopes that the sisters character will be fleshed out positively.
The best I can say is it was okay. There was no real character development that happened even though the main female lead was supposed to be getting a backbone where her family was concerned.
Possibly, most likely, if the book had been full length and the characters had been given more time to grow in a realistic manner the book would have been fabulous! As it is, it was a quick, light read and got my mind off of the last book I read which had TOO MANY FEELS!
I will be reading the second book though in the hopes that the sisters character will be fleshed out positively.
May 21, 2014
Understanding that this was a novella, which necessitates very quick story/character development, I was more than willing to overlook how fast Bianca and Lucian fell in love. I kept on with the book, even when it was losing my interest. But the ending was so abrupt, I didn't see it coming. No real love scene, no confrontation with the wimpy father, no marriage...just "oh! I am ruined, and now we have to marry...the end." This could have been a really good book, and I think the author has a shot at creating some good books in the future. But probably not for me.
June 7, 2014
I found the story a bit juvenile - it was sweet in a young adult kind of way.
Bianca was alright - she got a bit stupid when she found out Luc's secret. But Luc was very sweet. He was also a bit insecure, which I found endearing.
I thought Kate was a piece of work and I am not sure if I will read her book
All in all, the book is well written, but not quite as sophisticated as the books I normally read nor as steamy. This book was basically stolen kisses and a very vague heavy petting scene - nothing wrong with that, but I like a lot more spice.
Bianca was alright - she got a bit stupid when she found out Luc's secret. But Luc was very sweet. He was also a bit insecure, which I found endearing.
I thought Kate was a piece of work and I am not sure if I will read her book
All in all, the book is well written, but not quite as sophisticated as the books I normally read nor as steamy. This book was basically stolen kisses and a very vague heavy petting scene - nothing wrong with that, but I like a lot more spice.
November 23, 2014
Love at first sight with the taint of deception make this a light, but fun read. Love the heroine's character as a sheltered/neglected young woman who uses books to travel to places she may never see. She has an older sister that makes her life miserable and grows a backbone toward the end to stop allowing her older sister to control her life. The hero was okay. A generally honorable man who finds himself deceiving the woman he can't forget thanks to his prankster friend. The novella could have been lengthened by making him suffer for his deception before the nice HEA ending.
April 25, 2014
Review copy courtesy of Avon and Edelweiss.
I didn't give it 5 stars because it was to short! one or two more chapters would've finished the story perfectly. Other than that Bianca and Luc's story is very adorable. The story is based off Shakespeare's "Taming of the Shrew" but it's the story of the beautiful, quiet sister. As funny and handsome Luc was, it was Bianca who really carried the story.
I didn't give it 5 stars because it was to short! one or two more chapters would've finished the story perfectly. Other than that Bianca and Luc's story is very adorable. The story is based off Shakespeare's "Taming of the Shrew" but it's the story of the beautiful, quiet sister. As funny and handsome Luc was, it was Bianca who really carried the story.
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