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The Merriwell Sisters #2
Un secret explosif
En bon fils indigne, Giles Sinclair s'applique à faire enrager son tyran de père en menant une vie de patachon. Mais lorsque ce dernier meurt de manière inattendue, le voilà duc de Harpenden, et les ennuis commencent. Car Giles a un secret : sa naissance est entachée du sceau de la bâtardise. Et visiblement, quelqu'un est au courant. Pour sauver le duché, Giles doit se plonger dans les méandres de son passé familial et n'a d'autre choix que d'entraîner dans cette enquête Diana Merriwell, journaliste au London Tribune. Une jeune personne horripilante, indépendante et intraitable qui, contre toute attente, va se révéler d'une aide précieuse... et rapidement lui faire tourner la tête !
416 pages, Paperback
First published November 2, 2022
426 people are currently reading
12895 people want to read
About the author
Virginia Heath
132 books1,171 followersWhen Virginia Heath was a little girl it took her ages to fall asleep, so she made up stories in her head to help pass the time while she was staring at the ceiling. As she got older, the stories became more complicated, sometimes taking weeks to get to the happy ending. Then one day, she decided to embrace the insomnia and start writing them down. Twenty books and two Romantic Novel of the Year Award nominations later, and it still takes her forever to fall asleep.
Her new Regency Romcom for St Martin's Press ~ Never Fall For Your Fiancée ~ is on sale November 9, 2021
If you want to find out more check out virginiaheathromance.com or follow her on Facebook @VirginiaHeathAuthor
Her new Regency Romcom for St Martin's Press ~ Never Fall For Your Fiancée ~ is on sale November 9, 2021
If you want to find out more check out virginiaheathromance.com or follow her on Facebook @VirginiaHeathAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,156 reviews
June 29, 2022
Yay! Since I’ve read first book of Merriwell Sister ( probably all of them will be married well at the end of the series) I was so excited to read Giles and Diana’s love story. Giles: the best friend of Diana’s brother-in-law, the very same man she likes to have long quarrels and witty banters.
I expected this would be a great enemies to lovers story!
This book was more action packed and serious than the first one. At some parts high chemistry between Giles and Diana overshadowed by their complex problems they have to deal. As I told you before there are so much going on in both characters’ lives and so many secrets are about to come out.
Diana keeps secrets from her family, telling them she’s nitpicking grammarian at the Tribune- highly popular newspaper. They think sometimes she’s writing for a gossip column but they can never guess she’s the famous Sentinel - the truth seeker, digging up real dirt and exposing criminals.
And Giles keeps dirty secret about his family: he’s a bastard child and he doesn’t know the identity of his real mother. Now his ruthless father Duke of Harpenden is death before marrying with Dahlia Regis at his half age to have a legal heir. Giles suspects his father’s extra restless demeanors before his death that somebody knows this big secret. Anyone has enough knowledge about true circumstances of his birth can turn his life into hell.
He needs an ally to dig out the truth about his family and a dark-haired vixen who never minced her words or pulled her punches might be the answer of his problems. But in the meantime this same woman is constant pithy, prickly bane of his life.
He cannot resist her charms and the attraction between them is palpable. There so many things at stake. Could they have their HEA by fighting against the danger lurking around to ruin their lives.
Overall: Dalton stole some chapters, becoming my favorite supporting character. This book was truly exciting. The secrets, the schemes, the powerful dynamic between Giles and Diana hook me up from the beginning.
Second book of the series is absolutely a must read. I’m looking forward to devour the third book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
I expected this would be a great enemies to lovers story!
This book was more action packed and serious than the first one. At some parts high chemistry between Giles and Diana overshadowed by their complex problems they have to deal. As I told you before there are so much going on in both characters’ lives and so many secrets are about to come out.
Diana keeps secrets from her family, telling them she’s nitpicking grammarian at the Tribune- highly popular newspaper. They think sometimes she’s writing for a gossip column but they can never guess she’s the famous Sentinel - the truth seeker, digging up real dirt and exposing criminals.
And Giles keeps dirty secret about his family: he’s a bastard child and he doesn’t know the identity of his real mother. Now his ruthless father Duke of Harpenden is death before marrying with Dahlia Regis at his half age to have a legal heir. Giles suspects his father’s extra restless demeanors before his death that somebody knows this big secret. Anyone has enough knowledge about true circumstances of his birth can turn his life into hell.
He needs an ally to dig out the truth about his family and a dark-haired vixen who never minced her words or pulled her punches might be the answer of his problems. But in the meantime this same woman is constant pithy, prickly bane of his life.
He cannot resist her charms and the attraction between them is palpable. There so many things at stake. Could they have their HEA by fighting against the danger lurking around to ruin their lives.
Overall: Dalton stole some chapters, becoming my favorite supporting character. This book was truly exciting. The secrets, the schemes, the powerful dynamic between Giles and Diana hook me up from the beginning.
Second book of the series is absolutely a must read. I’m looking forward to devour the third book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
December 28, 2022
I wasn’t even aware how much I craved historical romance until I started reading this one. Never Rescue a Rogue reminded me how passionate and fun historical romances can be. For that, I am glad because now I crave even more.
This book was pure fun. It isn’t a comedy, don’t get me wrong. Still, Virginia Heath has the way of writing her words that everything, her descriptions, inner monologues and characters’ conversations are so entertaining.
I guess it isn’t a surprise that I flew through this book so fast.
I haven’t read the first book in the series (I would want to) but I didn’t feel like I was missing out. Never Rescue a Rogue can be read as a standalone.
However, all the characters Heath created were great to read about, so it would be a shame not to read their own books. Therefore, I will continue with the series.
My favourite character was Dalton who is the butler. It seems like every scene that had him in it made a book little bit better, brighter.
I also liked Vee who is Diana‘s (main character) younger sister. At times I hope the two of them would get together but I guess we won’t be seeing that movie since Vee is getting her own happily ever after in the next book, and Dalton isn’t the love interest.
As for our main characters in this book, Diana was the character one can look up to.
She loves her independence, her job and she is like a force that is not afraid of anything.
I have to admit I wasn’t head over hills for Giles at first, but I did enjoy seeing the chemistry between them and it was so obvious how Diana’s company does him good.
This is an example how enemies-to-lovers trope can be done, without unnecessarily drama, hate or going too far.
It was all tastsfully done.
4 stars from me and one big recommendation to you guys!
This book was pure fun. It isn’t a comedy, don’t get me wrong. Still, Virginia Heath has the way of writing her words that everything, her descriptions, inner monologues and characters’ conversations are so entertaining.
I guess it isn’t a surprise that I flew through this book so fast.
I haven’t read the first book in the series (I would want to) but I didn’t feel like I was missing out. Never Rescue a Rogue can be read as a standalone.
However, all the characters Heath created were great to read about, so it would be a shame not to read their own books. Therefore, I will continue with the series.
My favourite character was Dalton who is the butler. It seems like every scene that had him in it made a book little bit better, brighter.
I also liked Vee who is Diana‘s (main character) younger sister. At times I hope the two of them would get together but I guess we won’t be seeing that movie since Vee is getting her own happily ever after in the next book, and Dalton isn’t the love interest.
As for our main characters in this book, Diana was the character one can look up to.
She loves her independence, her job and she is like a force that is not afraid of anything.
I have to admit I wasn’t head over hills for Giles at first, but I did enjoy seeing the chemistry between them and it was so obvious how Diana’s company does him good.
This is an example how enemies-to-lovers trope can be done, without unnecessarily drama, hate or going too far.
It was all tastsfully done.
4 stars from me and one big recommendation to you guys!
November 14, 2022
Never Rescue a Rogue by Virginia Heath is a 2022 St. Martin’s Griffin publication.
This second installment in the Merriwell Sisters series is centered on Diana, the forthright, cynical and independent Merriwell Sister, and her brother-in-law’s best friend, Giles Sinclair.
There is a definite spark between them, but neither is interested in a dalliance. Diana loves working at the newspaper and Giles has his hands full when he suddenly comes into his inheritance.
But both are harboring secrets, secrets so explosive, Giles finds himself in need of Diana’s investigative skills. Can Diana help Giles without giving in to their mutual attraction?
This is another delightful effort by Virginia Heath. I enjoyed the balance between the mystery and comedy, and the chemistry between Giles and Diana is palpable. Their banter is sharp and fun, but this second chapter had a slightly more serious and poignant tone due to the heaviness of Diana’s past, and the importance of her work, as well as the surprising depth we discover in Giles. Still, the comedy is laugh out loud funny sometimes. The adventure is engrossing and kept the story moving at a brisk pace.
Overall, Giles and Diana are great characters, and I loved the intrigue in the story. The downside is that this couple will be a hard act to follow. I would love to see them pair up for more adventures together in a series of their own. But, alas, we have one more Merriwell sister left, and I am wildly curious to see how Vee’s story plays out.
4+ stars
*Light steam
This second installment in the Merriwell Sisters series is centered on Diana, the forthright, cynical and independent Merriwell Sister, and her brother-in-law’s best friend, Giles Sinclair.
There is a definite spark between them, but neither is interested in a dalliance. Diana loves working at the newspaper and Giles has his hands full when he suddenly comes into his inheritance.
But both are harboring secrets, secrets so explosive, Giles finds himself in need of Diana’s investigative skills. Can Diana help Giles without giving in to their mutual attraction?
This is another delightful effort by Virginia Heath. I enjoyed the balance between the mystery and comedy, and the chemistry between Giles and Diana is palpable. Their banter is sharp and fun, but this second chapter had a slightly more serious and poignant tone due to the heaviness of Diana’s past, and the importance of her work, as well as the surprising depth we discover in Giles. Still, the comedy is laugh out loud funny sometimes. The adventure is engrossing and kept the story moving at a brisk pace.
Overall, Giles and Diana are great characters, and I loved the intrigue in the story. The downside is that this couple will be a hard act to follow. I would love to see them pair up for more adventures together in a series of their own. But, alas, we have one more Merriwell sister left, and I am wildly curious to see how Vee’s story plays out.
4+ stars
*Light steam
February 28, 2023
Upon the reread via audio (thank you PRHaudio) I’m bumping this to 5⭐️s bc it was a fantastic performance and just so fun. The narrator, Kristin Atherton, gives me Mary Jane Wells vibes she’s a new favorite!!! 🌶️🌶️/5
✨Fly in my ointment.✨
The jury is out: I really, really like Heath’s plots! In both books of the series, the romance isn’t burning up the pages, but the story overall is fun, humorous, and heartwarming. I really liked the ending of this one (a side romance and the planted seeds for the next book (👀👀👀👀👀)) and the relationship was very cute.
🐝 Found family
✨ Meddling servants
🐝 Matchmaking family
✨ Duke about to lose everything
🐝 She’s a reporter
✨ Side romance
🐝 Great set-up for book 3
✨ Nicknames
🐝 Nose kiss
✨ He falls first
🐝 Overheard tryst in the gardens
The sex scene actually gave more than I thought??? but was still vague and quick once the 👌👈 ensued. I can def see people get disgruntled at the MAJOR slow burn if they aren’t into the plot as a whole (I did even tho I was enjoying the story)…but that seems to be Heath’s M.O. so idk what more to tell ya. I was also endeared to the family going in because I really enjoyed book one (mainly because of the side characters like say what you want but the Mozart seen was FUNNY). So if you’re willing, I’d say give that one a shot before reading book two.
The majority of the book was probably 3.75⭐️ but the ending was very enjoyable and I’m super happy with what is being teased as book three!!! I thought I was going off the rails a bit when I was playing match maker but !!!!!!! my hopeless romantic heart wins again 🥹 All in all, it wasn’t an emotionally taxing read, I enjoyed my time, the ending was great, and I loved the characters. I’ll definitely be back for book three.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶.5*/5
I think what drew me to Something Wilder and What Happens in Scotland also draws me to Heath. Adventure and mystery plots are something I enjoy but if you don’t…stay! away! You have been warned and my conscious is clear 😇
*We got some relatively good foreplay and I liked seeing them in the bedroom together. It solidified my support of them as a couple and it was just pretty adorable.
Also, these books feel like what Martha Waters tries to do with her books, but these seem more polished and less aggravating. (The characters are just way more likable, the length was way more bearable, and they just don’t seem to be as dry/dull/dense.) I did like Martha’s first book, full disclosure. But maybe if you like Martha’s you’d also like these, and in turn, if you were disappointed, then maybe try these. Again, I can see why they aren’t for everybody, so make good decisions kids.
✨Fly in my ointment.✨
The jury is out: I really, really like Heath’s plots! In both books of the series, the romance isn’t burning up the pages, but the story overall is fun, humorous, and heartwarming. I really liked the ending of this one (a side romance and the planted seeds for the next book (👀👀👀👀👀)) and the relationship was very cute.
🐝 Found family
✨ Meddling servants
🐝 Matchmaking family
✨ Duke about to lose everything
🐝 She’s a reporter
✨ Side romance
🐝 Great set-up for book 3
✨ Nicknames
🐝 Nose kiss
✨ He falls first
🐝 Overheard tryst in the gardens
The sex scene actually gave more than I thought??? but was still vague and quick once the 👌👈 ensued. I can def see people get disgruntled at the MAJOR slow burn if they aren’t into the plot as a whole (I did even tho I was enjoying the story)…but that seems to be Heath’s M.O. so idk what more to tell ya. I was also endeared to the family going in because I really enjoyed book one (mainly because of the side characters like say what you want but the Mozart seen was FUNNY). So if you’re willing, I’d say give that one a shot before reading book two.
The majority of the book was probably 3.75⭐️ but the ending was very enjoyable and I’m super happy with what is being teased as book three!!! I thought I was going off the rails a bit when I was playing match maker but !!!!!!! my hopeless romantic heart wins again 🥹 All in all, it wasn’t an emotionally taxing read, I enjoyed my time, the ending was great, and I loved the characters. I’ll definitely be back for book three.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶.5*/5
I think what drew me to Something Wilder and What Happens in Scotland also draws me to Heath. Adventure and mystery plots are something I enjoy but if you don’t…stay! away! You have been warned and my conscious is clear 😇
*We got some relatively good foreplay and I liked seeing them in the bedroom together. It solidified my support of them as a couple and it was just pretty adorable.
Also, these books feel like what Martha Waters tries to do with her books, but these seem more polished and less aggravating. (The characters are just way more likable, the length was way more bearable, and they just don’t seem to be as dry/dull/dense.) I did like Martha’s first book, full disclosure. But maybe if you like Martha’s you’d also like these, and in turn, if you were disappointed, then maybe try these. Again, I can see why they aren’t for everybody, so make good decisions kids.
June 8, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. The book starts off with an attraction between Diana and Giles and it grows from there. Giles has always had difficulty with his father and has a secret that could destroy his life. Diana writes for a newspaper and has a gift for ferreting out secrets as they go about looking into Giles birth. This is done with humor and the romance builds as Diana learns to trust Giles. The first book had a more humorous viewpoint whereas this one is an adventure story with a hea. I rate it 3.5* and round up.
February 17, 2025
2025 review - I read this twice and I'm lowering my rating to a 3/5 stars. The romance is good in the first half but then the second half focuses a lot on the family history which makes it kind of... Slow. And it felt long because of it. The ending was... Decent but I wish it could have been wrapped up sooner. The first book in the series was better in my opinion.
2022- 3.5 stars! It's a low heat slow burn historical romance.
2022- 3.5 stars! It's a low heat slow burn historical romance.
September 9, 2022
I was looking forward to this second book in the Merriwell Sisters series. Prickly Diana Merriwell is paired with the unrepentant rogue Giles. Both have interesting hidden depths. I thought the pairing compelling, and this second story didn’t lean too much on its predecessor. It could stand on its own, but it still had continuity of returning characters.
Diana is working for a newspaper but her specific role is a secret from even her family. Giles is dealing with the death of his father, the Duke, early on in the story, and he has deep dark secret concerning the circumstances of his birth. With the help of Diana’s investigative skills, they work together to uncover the truth and grow close in the process.
Overall, I thought this was a good story. There were times when the pacing seemed a bit off, in particular with the sexual tension. But the emotional aspects were touching, and the leads worthy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book. Views are my own.
Diana is working for a newspaper but her specific role is a secret from even her family. Giles is dealing with the death of his father, the Duke, early on in the story, and he has deep dark secret concerning the circumstances of his birth. With the help of Diana’s investigative skills, they work together to uncover the truth and grow close in the process.
Overall, I thought this was a good story. There were times when the pacing seemed a bit off, in particular with the sexual tension. But the emotional aspects were touching, and the leads worthy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book. Views are my own.
December 31, 2022
3.75*
Improvement on book1 which was a bit kitsch in places - the spiciness + back & forth banter between Diana and Giles was just what I needed from my step back in time for a fun period read.
Diana having a job as a writer and sleuthing capabilities helped with the side plot which I won't give away here & led to another fun almost house of cards/swinging doors ending which I remember enjoying in book1.
I was apprehensive about the age gap between the MCs, but thanks to the life Diana led before the first book and indeed the independence she has carved out for herself since alongside the revelations Giles discovers through this book made for a more organic pairing than I had thought could be achieved before picking it up.
Seeing Vee's growth from the previous installment has me anticipating her outing next and I think we've potentially met her match who promises to be an equally fun time 🤞
PS - Dalton steals the show, the sly fox 🤭
Improvement on book1 which was a bit kitsch in places - the spiciness + back & forth banter between Diana and Giles was just what I needed from my step back in time for a fun period read.
Diana having a job as a writer and sleuthing capabilities helped with the side plot which I won't give away here & led to another fun almost house of cards/swinging doors ending which I remember enjoying in book1.
I was apprehensive about the age gap between the MCs, but thanks to the life Diana led before the first book and indeed the independence she has carved out for herself since alongside the revelations Giles discovers through this book made for a more organic pairing than I had thought could be achieved before picking it up.
Seeing Vee's growth from the previous installment has me anticipating her outing next and I think we've potentially met her match who promises to be an equally fun time 🤞
PS - Dalton steals the show, the sly fox 🤭
May 20, 2022
This is an angsty, slow-burn romance full of meddling relatives.
Everyone thinks that Diana and Giles are meant to be together, except Diana and Giles. Diana has no desire to marry and is happy focusing on her secret journalism career. Giles, the new Duke of Harpenden, inherits the title in the midst of an unravelling mystery surrounding his parentage. When Giles requests Diana’s help to save his dukedom, the pair are thrown together and can no longer avoid their feelings.
This book was so fun and I adored the trouble Diana and Giles seemed to always find themselves in. I’m such a sucker for main characters being oblivious/in denial about their feelings for one another but not being able to fool anyone else and this book had that in spades.
If you like slow-burns, enemies to friends to lovers, and strong heroines, you’ll adore this fun regency romance!
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Everyone thinks that Diana and Giles are meant to be together, except Diana and Giles. Diana has no desire to marry and is happy focusing on her secret journalism career. Giles, the new Duke of Harpenden, inherits the title in the midst of an unravelling mystery surrounding his parentage. When Giles requests Diana’s help to save his dukedom, the pair are thrown together and can no longer avoid their feelings.
This book was so fun and I adored the trouble Diana and Giles seemed to always find themselves in. I’m such a sucker for main characters being oblivious/in denial about their feelings for one another but not being able to fool anyone else and this book had that in spades.
If you like slow-burns, enemies to friends to lovers, and strong heroines, you’ll adore this fun regency romance!
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2022
I received this book for free, this does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“Even if I wasn’t in such a precarious position and I was able to offer something— which obviously I cannot— I’d have to be a fool to have a romantic entanglement with a headstrong and opinionated harpy like you. Talk about incompatible.”
“We come from different worlds.” She nodded, playing with the tassels of her shawl for all she was worth. “Not that I have any interest in a romantic entanglement, either, but if I did suddenly feel the urge, it wouldn’t be with a privileged idiot such as you. I barely like you.”
“And I barely like you, too, harridan.” The forced chuckle grated like rusty nails in his throat.
The Merriwell sisters come from poverty, a father who was an alcoholic and forger, and growing up this way has left a mark on the middle sister Diana. When her older sister Minerva marries an Earl (Never Fall for Your Fiancee) their fortunes change drastically but Diana doesn't lose that hardened shell. I had no problems jumping into the series here but I do wonder if I missed some of the beginning building attraction between Diana and our hero Giles, friend to Diana's new brother-in-law. Diana and Giles have a teasing, sarcastic back and forth that has their family and friends side-eyeing them and Diana and Giles doth protesting too much.
Inside, she would always be the scrappy forger’s daughter from Clerkenwell, more comfortable amongst the flotsam and jetsam than she ever would be here in Mayfair.
Diana works for the London Tribune, she claims she just checks the grammar on articles but her family knows she writes the cheeky society columns, using her ability to blend into the background at functions to get the good gossip. What they don't know is that she is also The Sentinel, a column that outs aristocrats and businessmen for their dastardly deeds, a much more dangerous undertaking. Giles is the heir to a duke but has a very strained relationship with his father, while extremely successful in the business world, Giles hides that and pretends to be a ne'er-do-well. Diana sees past this and even though she sasses him about his rogue persona, she sees behind the mask and Giles may poke at her wallflower persona, he is attracted to her sharp mind. Giles also has a secret, four years ago on her deathbed, his mother told him that she wasn't really his mother. Confronting his father, Giles learns his mother was a “harlot” and that he is illegitimate, endangering his claim to the dukedom with this Dirty Secret.
The more he got to know her, the more he became convinced she read him like a book, and that really galled. Because Giles liked to think he was always the canniest person in any room and several paces ahead of the crowd— but she was always hot on his heels. Or more often, he trailed on hers …
What I really liked about their relationship was how much of a solid friendship these two had. The author laid out their background, Diana growing up losing trust in the people supposed to care for her and having to support and protect her two sisters, especially the youngest Venus. Diana also has the pain of a sexual assault in her past, we get the full context of it around the last 15%, but what really bonds these two together is the pain of never having a healthy relationship with their fathers. They also are masters of masks and show the mask to the world and keep their private selves hidden. So when they start to see each other's hidden self, we get that great having someone see the true me, which I think can hit the best in reading romance relationships. I did miss seeing some of the attraction heating up and coming to love the person building blocks as I think these two started off already attracted that way. When we get the “I love you”, it didn't feel particularly moving or sparking.
“I am afraid I come as the bearer of grave tidings. Very grave tidings indeed . . . Your Grace.”
The main plot, which has them hopping from London to Shropshire and back, is Diana coming to Giles to tell him she's uncovered that he's engaged to a debutante. Giles, angry, confronts his father and learns it's actually his father who is engaged. His father is fearing something and wanting to shore up the line of succession with a “true” heir; Giles senses someone is blackmailing him. Unfortunately, Giles' father dies before he can learn more as he takes over the dukedom, it becomes his mission to find out who the blackmailer is and find the proof about his birth. Diana comes along on the mission to help because of her skills as a reporter and we have a reason for our couple to be together.
Dukes and forger’s daughters were a laughable combination. Ridiculous in fact. Why on earth would she want to kiss him when he vexed her so? But of their own accord, her lips tingled at the idea . . .
In the later first half, Giles learns Diana is The Sentinel and is furious because of the danger and insists that his valet/friend Dalton accompany her back to London when she has to leave Shropshire, Diana learns his secret of possibly not being the true heir, and they have tipsy late night make-out session that pretty much convinces them their attraction is real. There is some “I can't marry you!” from Giles because of the uncertainty of his birth and Diana not wanting to lose her freedom but that's more or less just lingering in the background. I really liked the side character of Dalton and wouldn't have minded at least a novella of him but he gets a behind the scenes romance here.
She didn’t want him to care, had never wanted any man to care about her nor care about him in return, but now that she knew he did, it ran riot with her emotions.
About midway the, mostly obvious, villain is revealed to be Giles' uncle, who was banished after kidnapping a woman to Gretna Green to marry, and his son, Galahad. It's a race to get the information about Giles' true mother before them and we add Wales to the hopping spots. Diana's younger sister Vee (Venus) gets added and it seems like her and Galahad may have some friction between them that alludes to a future book three couple. The last twenty percent gives us reveals on Giles' mother, Diana giving into her feelings, a bedroom scene, and a heel turn.
Giles studied her with interest. “I am starting to think that my Goddess of the Hunt is as much a rescuer as she is a Kicker of Hornets.”
The last 10% was a very quick wrap-up, too quick for me, and I wonder if the opium case The Sentinel (Diana) was wrapping up will make an appearance in the third. If you're looking for a couple that had a solid friendship and believable connectivity, if not fireworks, Diana and Giles were very warm in that regard. I also enjoyed the world setting in this, the author brought in elements that helped to set the time period and have me feel it. The alluding to who younger sister Vee might be paired up with has me very excited to read her book, some of that sparking that I felt was missing a little here, seems like it could be in her relationship in spades.
“Even if I wasn’t in such a precarious position and I was able to offer something— which obviously I cannot— I’d have to be a fool to have a romantic entanglement with a headstrong and opinionated harpy like you. Talk about incompatible.”
“We come from different worlds.” She nodded, playing with the tassels of her shawl for all she was worth. “Not that I have any interest in a romantic entanglement, either, but if I did suddenly feel the urge, it wouldn’t be with a privileged idiot such as you. I barely like you.”
“And I barely like you, too, harridan.” The forced chuckle grated like rusty nails in his throat.
The Merriwell sisters come from poverty, a father who was an alcoholic and forger, and growing up this way has left a mark on the middle sister Diana. When her older sister Minerva marries an Earl (Never Fall for Your Fiancee) their fortunes change drastically but Diana doesn't lose that hardened shell. I had no problems jumping into the series here but I do wonder if I missed some of the beginning building attraction between Diana and our hero Giles, friend to Diana's new brother-in-law. Diana and Giles have a teasing, sarcastic back and forth that has their family and friends side-eyeing them and Diana and Giles doth protesting too much.
Inside, she would always be the scrappy forger’s daughter from Clerkenwell, more comfortable amongst the flotsam and jetsam than she ever would be here in Mayfair.
Diana works for the London Tribune, she claims she just checks the grammar on articles but her family knows she writes the cheeky society columns, using her ability to blend into the background at functions to get the good gossip. What they don't know is that she is also The Sentinel, a column that outs aristocrats and businessmen for their dastardly deeds, a much more dangerous undertaking. Giles is the heir to a duke but has a very strained relationship with his father, while extremely successful in the business world, Giles hides that and pretends to be a ne'er-do-well. Diana sees past this and even though she sasses him about his rogue persona, she sees behind the mask and Giles may poke at her wallflower persona, he is attracted to her sharp mind. Giles also has a secret, four years ago on her deathbed, his mother told him that she wasn't really his mother. Confronting his father, Giles learns his mother was a “harlot” and that he is illegitimate, endangering his claim to the dukedom with this Dirty Secret.
The more he got to know her, the more he became convinced she read him like a book, and that really galled. Because Giles liked to think he was always the canniest person in any room and several paces ahead of the crowd— but she was always hot on his heels. Or more often, he trailed on hers …
What I really liked about their relationship was how much of a solid friendship these two had. The author laid out their background, Diana growing up losing trust in the people supposed to care for her and having to support and protect her two sisters, especially the youngest Venus. Diana also has the pain of a sexual assault in her past, we get the full context of it around the last 15%, but what really bonds these two together is the pain of never having a healthy relationship with their fathers. They also are masters of masks and show the mask to the world and keep their private selves hidden. So when they start to see each other's hidden self, we get that great having someone see the true me, which I think can hit the best in reading romance relationships. I did miss seeing some of the attraction heating up and coming to love the person building blocks as I think these two started off already attracted that way. When we get the “I love you”, it didn't feel particularly moving or sparking.
“I am afraid I come as the bearer of grave tidings. Very grave tidings indeed . . . Your Grace.”
The main plot, which has them hopping from London to Shropshire and back, is Diana coming to Giles to tell him she's uncovered that he's engaged to a debutante. Giles, angry, confronts his father and learns it's actually his father who is engaged. His father is fearing something and wanting to shore up the line of succession with a “true” heir; Giles senses someone is blackmailing him. Unfortunately, Giles' father dies before he can learn more as he takes over the dukedom, it becomes his mission to find out who the blackmailer is and find the proof about his birth. Diana comes along on the mission to help because of her skills as a reporter and we have a reason for our couple to be together.
Dukes and forger’s daughters were a laughable combination. Ridiculous in fact. Why on earth would she want to kiss him when he vexed her so? But of their own accord, her lips tingled at the idea . . .
In the later first half, Giles learns Diana is The Sentinel and is furious because of the danger and insists that his valet/friend Dalton accompany her back to London when she has to leave Shropshire, Diana learns his secret of possibly not being the true heir, and they have tipsy late night make-out session that pretty much convinces them their attraction is real. There is some “I can't marry you!” from Giles because of the uncertainty of his birth and Diana not wanting to lose her freedom but that's more or less just lingering in the background. I really liked the side character of Dalton and wouldn't have minded at least a novella of him but he gets a behind the scenes romance here.
She didn’t want him to care, had never wanted any man to care about her nor care about him in return, but now that she knew he did, it ran riot with her emotions.
About midway the, mostly obvious, villain is revealed to be Giles' uncle, who was banished after kidnapping a woman to Gretna Green to marry, and his son, Galahad. It's a race to get the information about Giles' true mother before them and we add Wales to the hopping spots. Diana's younger sister Vee (Venus) gets added and it seems like her and Galahad may have some friction between them that alludes to a future book three couple. The last twenty percent gives us reveals on Giles' mother, Diana giving into her feelings, a bedroom scene, and a heel turn.
Giles studied her with interest. “I am starting to think that my Goddess of the Hunt is as much a rescuer as she is a Kicker of Hornets.”
The last 10% was a very quick wrap-up, too quick for me, and I wonder if the opium case The Sentinel (Diana) was wrapping up will make an appearance in the third. If you're looking for a couple that had a solid friendship and believable connectivity, if not fireworks, Diana and Giles were very warm in that regard. I also enjoyed the world setting in this, the author brought in elements that helped to set the time period and have me feel it. The alluding to who younger sister Vee might be paired up with has me very excited to read her book, some of that sparking that I felt was missing a little here, seems like it could be in her relationship in spades.
November 2, 2022
This is a delightful frenemies-to-lovers romance between a newly-inherited duke and his BFF's younger sister-in-law. Giles is one of those feckless-rakes-on-the-outside, charity-do-gooder on the inside HR heroes. Proof?
1. He hosts lavish parties to piss of his dad the duke, but he pays for them using his own money earned on the stock market. His allowance is donated in-full to charities. (Also he rarely even drinks alcohol.)
2. He wants to inherit, but not because he wants his dad to die. No, he just wants to put right all of the depredations caused by an absentee landlord.
3. He falls so hard for Diana that he hasn't even considered another woman since they met.
Virginia Heath takes a simple premise and pulls it off perfectly. Giles has a secret! But don't worry, he tells Diana PDQ. Diana is a newshound! But don't worry, she'd never capitalize on her friends' private lives.
We liked the first book in the series, but we LOVED this one. Highly recommended!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
1. He hosts lavish parties to piss of his dad the duke, but he pays for them using his own money earned on the stock market. His allowance is donated in-full to charities. (Also he rarely even drinks alcohol.)
2. He wants to inherit, but not because he wants his dad to die. No, he just wants to put right all of the depredations caused by an absentee landlord.
3. He falls so hard for Diana that he hasn't even considered another woman since they met.
Virginia Heath takes a simple premise and pulls it off perfectly. Giles has a secret! But don't worry, he tells Diana PDQ. Diana is a newshound! But don't worry, she'd never capitalize on her friends' private lives.
We liked the first book in the series, but we LOVED this one. Highly recommended!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
November 6, 2022
Never Rescue a Rogue is the second book in Virginia Heath’s Merriwell Sisters historical romance series. The story follows Diana, a newspaper reporter masked as a proofreader, and Giles, a duke and friend of the family. The pair were introduced in the first book, and it was clear in their antagonistic behavior that there was something between them.
Diana and Giles are such compelling and dynamically developed characters, and I really enjoyed their stories. Diana is intelligent and intuitive and incredibly strong. Like her sisters, she has a difficult past, and that has led to trust issues, especially when it comes to men. Though faced with many obstacles, Diana worked hard to establish herself as an investigative journalist, and she is in no rush to lose her independence. She is a woman who has broken barriers with her intellect, investigative prowess, and skilled writing, though no one knows it because she tells everyone she is a proofreader. I love her independent spirit, determination to help her family, and drive. She’s fierce and won’t let anything, including her confusing feelings toward Giles, stand in her way.
Giles is so much more than the rake most people think he is, and Diana is one of the few to see him for the kind and generous man he is. Giles has a complicated past, and a secret that could ruin his reputation and livelihood. Luckily, Diana takes it upon herself to help Giles solve the mystery in his family. Working with Diana makes both of them realize just how much they really care for each other.
Diana and Giles have a fantastic enemies-to-lovers romance filled with witty banter and tons of chemistry. Everyone can tell that they are made for each other except Diana and Giles. They constantly bicker and antagonize each other, but it’s clear their animosity disguises their real feelings. Something I really like about Giles is that he doesn’t try to change Diana, nor does he judge her for not conforming to the dictates of society. Both characters accept each other unconditionally, and their slow-building enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance is wonderful.
The mystery is also interesting and adds a bit of intrigue to the story, and the secondary characters are fantastic, especially Dalton the butler and Diana’s younger sister Vee. Dalton has some particularly memorable lines! And I want to be part of Diana’s family! They are loving and supportive and funny, and their constant matchmaking schemes are equally comical and sweet.
I would definitely recommend Never Rescue a Rogue to readers who enjoy heartwarming historical romances with witty banter, some fun laugh-out-loud moments, and a swoon-worthy, slow-burning love story. I can’t wait to read Vee’s story in the next book! Special thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Diana and Giles are such compelling and dynamically developed characters, and I really enjoyed their stories. Diana is intelligent and intuitive and incredibly strong. Like her sisters, she has a difficult past, and that has led to trust issues, especially when it comes to men. Though faced with many obstacles, Diana worked hard to establish herself as an investigative journalist, and she is in no rush to lose her independence. She is a woman who has broken barriers with her intellect, investigative prowess, and skilled writing, though no one knows it because she tells everyone she is a proofreader. I love her independent spirit, determination to help her family, and drive. She’s fierce and won’t let anything, including her confusing feelings toward Giles, stand in her way.
Giles is so much more than the rake most people think he is, and Diana is one of the few to see him for the kind and generous man he is. Giles has a complicated past, and a secret that could ruin his reputation and livelihood. Luckily, Diana takes it upon herself to help Giles solve the mystery in his family. Working with Diana makes both of them realize just how much they really care for each other.
Diana and Giles have a fantastic enemies-to-lovers romance filled with witty banter and tons of chemistry. Everyone can tell that they are made for each other except Diana and Giles. They constantly bicker and antagonize each other, but it’s clear their animosity disguises their real feelings. Something I really like about Giles is that he doesn’t try to change Diana, nor does he judge her for not conforming to the dictates of society. Both characters accept each other unconditionally, and their slow-building enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance is wonderful.
The mystery is also interesting and adds a bit of intrigue to the story, and the secondary characters are fantastic, especially Dalton the butler and Diana’s younger sister Vee. Dalton has some particularly memorable lines! And I want to be part of Diana’s family! They are loving and supportive and funny, and their constant matchmaking schemes are equally comical and sweet.
I would definitely recommend Never Rescue a Rogue to readers who enjoy heartwarming historical romances with witty banter, some fun laugh-out-loud moments, and a swoon-worthy, slow-burning love story. I can’t wait to read Vee’s story in the next book! Special thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
April 26, 2022
So Fun! This was good. I like the way this author writes. I would just give her a little advice to slow down a bit and give us a bit of background. I couldn't remember the first book as I read and forgot all these people. The author jumps into this book and you need a little knowledge of the first book for this one. I would say you could read this one on it's own but you would miss who everyone else in the story is. It does set up nicely for the 3rd story in this one for the last sister. I like that this author keeps it all very accurate to the time and her writing stays more focused on the story not the lust. There is a sex scene in this and some innuendo but that is not the main story line. It's funny and a little slap stick at times and just a good book.
November 7, 2022
Scandals and secrets!
Giles Sinclair, the future Duke of Harpenden, has kicked against his father’s harshness all his life. That is until he discovered the Big Secret about his legitimacy. His father wouldn’t let him step aside however. Complicated laws about knowingly being his fathers heir stymied him. All he wanted was enough time to put the estates businesses in order before he declared himself illegitimate. But time ran out!
Miss Dianna Merriwell strolled through high society finding out gossip about the ton. But that’s just a cover for her true passion—writing! Penning investigative pieces under the name of the Sentinel about various nefarious persons. Revealing their greed and venality. Scandalous and illegal secrets have been revealed from major scams to illegal pursuits by the Sentinel. No one must know her identity, no one!
Giles turns his attentions to Diana as a worthy camouflage for his father’s perchance to try to marry him off by fair means or foul. She agrees to help him particularly as the wolf at the door, circling expectantly is his Uncle Gervais who’d been exiled for crimes that put him beyond the pale. Now he’s back and they need to find out why.
Giles has appreciated Diana’s societal exposes but he hasn’t known what’s she’s really up to until she turns her considerable talent on his problem.
A wonderful pair who have difficulty owning their love for each other, but I swooned along when the couple became just that.
Fun and illuminating all edged with a delightful tension!
A St. Martin's Press invitation ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Giles Sinclair, the future Duke of Harpenden, has kicked against his father’s harshness all his life. That is until he discovered the Big Secret about his legitimacy. His father wouldn’t let him step aside however. Complicated laws about knowingly being his fathers heir stymied him. All he wanted was enough time to put the estates businesses in order before he declared himself illegitimate. But time ran out!
Miss Dianna Merriwell strolled through high society finding out gossip about the ton. But that’s just a cover for her true passion—writing! Penning investigative pieces under the name of the Sentinel about various nefarious persons. Revealing their greed and venality. Scandalous and illegal secrets have been revealed from major scams to illegal pursuits by the Sentinel. No one must know her identity, no one!
Giles turns his attentions to Diana as a worthy camouflage for his father’s perchance to try to marry him off by fair means or foul. She agrees to help him particularly as the wolf at the door, circling expectantly is his Uncle Gervais who’d been exiled for crimes that put him beyond the pale. Now he’s back and they need to find out why.
Giles has appreciated Diana’s societal exposes but he hasn’t known what’s she’s really up to until she turns her considerable talent on his problem.
A wonderful pair who have difficulty owning their love for each other, but I swooned along when the couple became just that.
Fun and illuminating all edged with a delightful tension!
A St. Martin's Press invitation ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
November 4, 2022
This historical Regency romance series just keeps getting better and better!! I loved that this book sees a playboy heir with a secret philanthropic heart teaming up with a strong, independent newspaper investigator to dig into his past and stave off a blackmailer.
The banter between Giles and Diana is top notch and the cameos from the first book made me so happy. Unapologetically feminist with great steamy scenes, this book truly had it all. Highly recommended for fans of Martha Waters or Evie Dunmore and great on audio! Much thanks to NetGalley and @prhaudio for early digital copies in exchange for my honest review!
The banter between Giles and Diana is top notch and the cameos from the first book made me so happy. Unapologetically feminist with great steamy scenes, this book truly had it all. Highly recommended for fans of Martha Waters or Evie Dunmore and great on audio! Much thanks to NetGalley and @prhaudio for early digital copies in exchange for my honest review!
November 14, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
You know, this story disappointed me exactly the same way its predecessor did - rushed, untidy ending. Still, the story overall managed to put me in a good mood for once, an impossible feat as of late, so that itself warrants a boost in rating.
“I don’t want to ruin you.”
“That’s a shame, because I fully intend to ruin you, Giles.”
In short, what does this story entail?
All of the above makes the story highly entertaining. Chemistry between Giles and Diana is undeniable, and it's so clear the louder they claim to dislike each other, the deeper they fall. Side characters are also a worthy addition to the storyline, and the setup for the next book already has me intrigued.
Honestly, the only (and some might argue - most important) thing that spoiled this for me was the ending. It just felt so rushed, and for what? There is a bit of a mystery to solve in this book, and it felt like the author was sewing and tying the pieces together, only to forget to put a bow on it. We have all the pieces of the puzzle, but instead of getting satisfaction of seeing it all actually play out to the very end, but are left with information thrown at the last moment, being forced to assume what will happen next. And don't get me wrong - I appreciate a good open ending, but this was not it. This just left rushed and (just a tiny weeny bit) lazy.
Summing up, this was still Good. I enjoyed it. It gave me a few smiles and some giddiness. Can definitely recommend to HR fans. It's just not one I'll reread time and time again 😅🤷♀️
“That even though circumstances and my own conscience dictate that I can never have you, the cruelest irony of all is that despite the futility of it, I love you with all my heart, Diana. I have since you first took my breath away, and I shall love you until the last breath leaves my body.”
You know, this story disappointed me exactly the same way its predecessor did - rushed, untidy ending. Still, the story overall managed to put me in a good mood for once, an impossible feat as of late, so that itself warrants a boost in rating.
“I don’t want to ruin you.”
“That’s a shame, because I fully intend to ruin you, Giles.”
In short, what does this story entail?
💟 erotically-charged hand-holding, sneaking around in carriages at night, illicit meetings in the gardens - all the good stuff we know and love about HR
💟 two clowns in love and they share a braincell (and the braincell belongs to the valet)
💟 pining hero who falls first
💟 witty banter, a bit of reluctant allies with a dash of hostile energy (but it's more "we bicker to hide that we horny")
💟 outspoken, career-focused, daring heroine
All of the above makes the story highly entertaining. Chemistry between Giles and Diana is undeniable, and it's so clear the louder they claim to dislike each other, the deeper they fall. Side characters are also a worthy addition to the storyline, and the setup for the next book already has me intrigued.
Honestly, the only (and some might argue - most important) thing that spoiled this for me was the ending. It just felt so rushed, and for what? There is a bit of a mystery to solve in this book, and it felt like the author was sewing and tying the pieces together, only to forget to put a bow on it. We have all the pieces of the puzzle, but instead of getting satisfaction of seeing it all actually play out to the very end, but are left with information thrown at the last moment, being forced to assume what will happen next. And don't get me wrong - I appreciate a good open ending, but this was not it. This just left rushed and (just a tiny weeny bit) lazy.
Summing up, this was still Good. I enjoyed it. It gave me a few smiles and some giddiness. Can definitely recommend to HR fans. It's just not one I'll reread time and time again 😅🤷♀️
“That even though circumstances and my own conscience dictate that I can never have you, the cruelest irony of all is that despite the futility of it, I love you with all my heart, Diana. I have since you first took my breath away, and I shall love you until the last breath leaves my body.”
June 3, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press, St. Martin’s Griffin for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Rating: 4 Stars
Publication: November 8, 2022
Series: The Merriwell Sisters #2
Pages: 368
“Never Rescue a Rogue” is the second installment of the Merriwell Sisters series and I thought it was quite enjoyable. The book re-introduces Diana Merriwell and Giles Sinclair, who from the first book, had this supposedly love/hate relationship, but the chemistry is there lurking underneath. Everyone around them can see how they are made for each other…except for the two that have been thrown together at every turn.
Giles has always had a difficult relationship with his father that has been an annoyance for him more than he gathered until his father’s death and the realization that the secret they held could cause him to lose everything including scandalizing his legitimacy as the Duke. Diana too has had her share of life’s difficulties. She writes for a newspaper while trying to fit in with the upper class by association of her married sister. She also puts herself in danger trying to help those in need.
Both characters are likeable and have longing to uncover the truth because they understand one another more than they think. I do think that their characters could have developed a bit more as there was history from the first book, although the relationship was on point. Plot was enjoyable and there were twists and turns that made the story more predictable. I was looking for angst and it was evident in the romance of the story.
Virginia Heath has a nicely written story that brings out the enemies to lovers trop with a bit of mystery and suspense. It is a bit slow burn in parts but the romantic tension between the H/h is refreshing…especially to see both individuals letting down their guards to let love take control. Recommend the read.
Rating: 4 Stars
Publication: November 8, 2022
Series: The Merriwell Sisters #2
Pages: 368
“Never Rescue a Rogue” is the second installment of the Merriwell Sisters series and I thought it was quite enjoyable. The book re-introduces Diana Merriwell and Giles Sinclair, who from the first book, had this supposedly love/hate relationship, but the chemistry is there lurking underneath. Everyone around them can see how they are made for each other…except for the two that have been thrown together at every turn.
Giles has always had a difficult relationship with his father that has been an annoyance for him more than he gathered until his father’s death and the realization that the secret they held could cause him to lose everything including scandalizing his legitimacy as the Duke. Diana too has had her share of life’s difficulties. She writes for a newspaper while trying to fit in with the upper class by association of her married sister. She also puts herself in danger trying to help those in need.
Both characters are likeable and have longing to uncover the truth because they understand one another more than they think. I do think that their characters could have developed a bit more as there was history from the first book, although the relationship was on point. Plot was enjoyable and there were twists and turns that made the story more predictable. I was looking for angst and it was evident in the romance of the story.
Virginia Heath has a nicely written story that brings out the enemies to lovers trop with a bit of mystery and suspense. It is a bit slow burn in parts but the romantic tension between the H/h is refreshing…especially to see both individuals letting down their guards to let love take control. Recommend the read.
July 8, 2022
To keep it short and brief, this was boring. I didn't care much for the first book of the series and the sequel was no better. I tried to give it the benefit of the doubt considering my love of the enemies turned lovers trope, but the start of the novel started terribly slow and my desire to further complete this read—poof! Vanished.
My mind wandered off more times than I could count and without forcing myself to finished this historical romance that will surely diminish my reading experience—I decided to nip it in the bud and cut this read short. Sorry not sorry.
May 16, 2023
I loved this one even more than the first. This series is so cute and funny. Giles and Diana were adorable together. Their banter had me smiling all the way through.
The side characters are hilarious, especially Dalton, and I love the whole extended family.
I'm so very excited to read Vee's book. The Merriwell sisters are an absolute delight.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The side characters are hilarious, especially Dalton, and I love the whole extended family.
I'm so very excited to read Vee's book. The Merriwell sisters are an absolute delight.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 17, 2022
Diana Merriwell and Giles Sinclair, heir to the Duke of Harpenden, claim to only tolerate one another for the sake of their loved ones. Their attraction has been stewing for a while, and finally bubbles over as Diana puts her investigative skills to work to help Giles sleuth the truth about a blackmailer and his father's past.
This is the second book in the Merriwell Sisters series. The first book, Never Fall For Your Fiancée, involved Diana's older sister and Giles's best friend.
I enjoyed this story of the not-quite oil-and-water duo, but I expected more family shenanigans like the first novel. The tone of this one was slightly less comedic, although there were some shenanigans and Diana's family shows up for a strong ending. The writing from Heath was still very entertaining, and the couple spends plenty of time together on page with witty banter. (3.5 stars)
Tropes: Frenemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Road Trip, Working Heroine
Steam: 1
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #NeverRescueARogue #NetGalley
This is the second book in the Merriwell Sisters series. The first book, Never Fall For Your Fiancée, involved Diana's older sister and Giles's best friend.
I enjoyed this story of the not-quite oil-and-water duo, but I expected more family shenanigans like the first novel. The tone of this one was slightly less comedic, although there were some shenanigans and Diana's family shows up for a strong ending. The writing from Heath was still very entertaining, and the couple spends plenty of time together on page with witty banter. (3.5 stars)
Tropes: Frenemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Road Trip, Working Heroine
Steam: 1
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #NeverRescueARogue #NetGalley
June 26, 2023
Follows Diana and Giles’ story.
There is nothing high literature about this, but it is written well and very entertaining. If you are looking for a lot of spice, you won’t find it here. Semi-clean and fun, it is!
I can’t wait for the third!
There is nothing high literature about this, but it is written well and very entertaining. If you are looking for a lot of spice, you won’t find it here. Semi-clean and fun, it is!
I can’t wait for the third!
April 15, 2022
From the moment Diana and Giles met in the first Merriwell Sisters novel, I couldn't wait to read their story and this book exceeded all of my expectations! Diana and Giles only tolerate each other, or at least that's what they tell themselves. But it is obvious to everyone around them that they are perfect for each other. But the enemies-to-lovers romance plotline isn't the only thing that makes this book incredible. Diana is quickly becoming an expert in investigative journalism. So when Giles needs to discover the truth about his dubious parentage, he reluctantly asks Diana for help. The mystery and intrigue in this book are just as good as the romance! Virginia Heath is quickly becoming one of my favorite regency romance authors. I loved this book and cannot recommend it enough!
Thank you to my friend for winning a Goodreads giveaway so I can read the ARC of this book. There was no way I could wait until the publication date to read more about the Merriwell Sisters!
Thank you to my friend for winning a Goodreads giveaway so I can read the ARC of this book. There was no way I could wait until the publication date to read more about the Merriwell Sisters!
June 13, 2022
Thanks for the ARC St. Martin's Press + NetGalley - This was disgustingly cute.
Any readers who liked the first in this series will love this, but it's also a good option for people who haven't tried historical romance before, or regulars who don't know Virginia Heath. It's kind of an enemies-to-lovers type situation, but not quite enemies, sort of frenemies? Either way the tension was 10/10 and the eventual declaration had me down bad for Giles.
The mystery plot was cute too, but this is definitely primarily a romance - in the best way!
Any readers who liked the first in this series will love this, but it's also a good option for people who haven't tried historical romance before, or regulars who don't know Virginia Heath. It's kind of an enemies-to-lovers type situation, but not quite enemies, sort of frenemies? Either way the tension was 10/10 and the eventual declaration had me down bad for Giles.
The mystery plot was cute too, but this is definitely primarily a romance - in the best way!
December 4, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up.
Miss Diana Merriwell and Giles Sinclair are not friends and most certainly are not infatuated with each other, but since her brother-in-law is his best friend, they must spend time in each other’s company and pretend to tolerate each other for the sake of familial harmony – yep – that’s their story and they are sticking to it.
Diana has trust issues thanks to her vile father and has no desire to marry and be “owned” by a man. She has worked hard and has earned her position at The London Tribune, a job she hopes will ultimately support her dream to live independently as a spinster. But for now, she resides with her sister and brother in law, her family knows she works at the paper, and despite her insistence that she is just a copy editor, they all think they know her secret – that she writes for the gossip column - which she does and is happy to let them believe that is her secret, but the truth is she also writes serious, investigative exposes under the nom de plume of the Sentinel.
Since the death of his mother, Giles has known the family’s “Dirty Secret”, but his father never expressed any concern about it, until recently when out of the blue he decides to remarry. But when he dies just days before his wedding, Giles learns why his father was in such a rush to wed when someone threatens to expose the secret and destroy everything Giles has worked for as the new Duke of Harpenden. He isn’t sure how to thwart the villain, that is until he figures out Diana’s secret and wonders if she would be willing to put aside their animosity and help him find out the truth, without revealing his growing regard and desire for her.
This was a well-written, nicely-paced romance story that happened to have a really great mystery. This book is supposed to be a “enemies to lovers” trope, but I don’t feel like that is accurate, I never believed that they disliked each other. Distrusted? Yes. Hated? No. I also found Diana’s constant denial of her true feelings to be a bit too much – to quote the Bard “The lady doth protest too much, methinks.” and she doesn’t stop until almost the very end of the book. I understood the reason for her mistrust, but Giles proved himself time and again, and yet, she still refused to let it go, Sigh – I love strong heroines, but Diana’s refusal to even consider any future other than being alone got tiresome. For me, the best part of the story was when they began to investigate Giles’ “Dirty Secret”, it was really well done, very touching, and stuck it to the villain. This is the second book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title. Bottom line; This book was a fun read that is light on the romance, and heavy on the mystery story that ends with a HEA.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Miss Diana Merriwell and Giles Sinclair are not friends and most certainly are not infatuated with each other, but since her brother-in-law is his best friend, they must spend time in each other’s company and pretend to tolerate each other for the sake of familial harmony – yep – that’s their story and they are sticking to it.
Diana has trust issues thanks to her vile father and has no desire to marry and be “owned” by a man. She has worked hard and has earned her position at The London Tribune, a job she hopes will ultimately support her dream to live independently as a spinster. But for now, she resides with her sister and brother in law, her family knows she works at the paper, and despite her insistence that she is just a copy editor, they all think they know her secret – that she writes for the gossip column - which she does and is happy to let them believe that is her secret, but the truth is she also writes serious, investigative exposes under the nom de plume of the Sentinel.
Since the death of his mother, Giles has known the family’s “Dirty Secret”, but his father never expressed any concern about it, until recently when out of the blue he decides to remarry. But when he dies just days before his wedding, Giles learns why his father was in such a rush to wed when someone threatens to expose the secret and destroy everything Giles has worked for as the new Duke of Harpenden. He isn’t sure how to thwart the villain, that is until he figures out Diana’s secret and wonders if she would be willing to put aside their animosity and help him find out the truth, without revealing his growing regard and desire for her.
This was a well-written, nicely-paced romance story that happened to have a really great mystery. This book is supposed to be a “enemies to lovers” trope, but I don’t feel like that is accurate, I never believed that they disliked each other. Distrusted? Yes. Hated? No. I also found Diana’s constant denial of her true feelings to be a bit too much – to quote the Bard “The lady doth protest too much, methinks.” and she doesn’t stop until almost the very end of the book. I understood the reason for her mistrust, but Giles proved himself time and again, and yet, she still refused to let it go, Sigh – I love strong heroines, but Diana’s refusal to even consider any future other than being alone got tiresome. For me, the best part of the story was when they began to investigate Giles’ “Dirty Secret”, it was really well done, very touching, and stuck it to the villain. This is the second book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title. Bottom line; This book was a fun read that is light on the romance, and heavy on the mystery story that ends with a HEA.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
June 19, 2022
I received a copy from NetGalley and this is my freely given opinion.
This is the second book of the Merriwell Sisters by Virginia Heath, about the Diana, the younger sister of Minerva, and Giles Sinclair, the good friend of Hugh.
Diana had a very troubled youth with a terrible father, a felonious villain willing to use his daughters in any way to further his gain, and who abandoned them. She has no trust in men and no desire to marry, and every desire to be an independent woman. To this end, she has a job working for a paper, despite being in Society through her sister's marriage to a peer. She encourages her family's belief that her involvement is merely in superficial gossip pieces and editing, and hides the fact that she is behind more journalistic, expose pieces which could put her in danger.
Giles Sinclair, the heir to a dukedom, also has a cold, fraught, contentious relationship with his father. To the point where his father actively prevents Hugh from being allowed on the estates including the home he grew up in. He puts up a facade of being a licentious, libertine rake to goad and rebel against his father, but deep down, he is nothing like he portrays. But he also is the keeper of a deep family secret. When he inherits the dukedom, he works to find find the truth because he wants to be able to save the estates and the tenants he cares deeply for from the harm his father did through neglect, and to protect them from future harm. But it seems an overwhelming task for him, so he turns to someone he knows is capable of ferreting out secrets and truth, and whom he trusts with his secrets, Diana.
Diana and Giles have an interesting contentious relationship, where they are attracted to each other, but because of their own secrets and histories, they suppress and deny the attraction and instead bait, and tease each other. But, probably because of their own secrets they are keeping, they seem to see each other for more than the images they project, and this seems to a contribute to a deeper understanding, and trust in each other that fosters a deeper relationship that develops into more.
I enjoyed the banter between Giles and Diana. There were some quite funny lines, like Diana stating "I barely tolerated him to begin with - but he grew on me. Like a fungus." To which Giles says, "And now I am the victorious champignon of her heart." That tickled my funny bone, and I loved their relationship. But I really liked the development and revealing of Giles' character. In the first book, he seemed quite the superficial rake, friend of Hugh, and I was ready to dismiss him as a bit of an uncaring jerk. I also wondered about when he took off for over a week or so, putting a bit of a wrench into the spoke of Hugh's fake fiancee plan, where he was supposed to stage a fake elopement between Minerva and Giles. I thought perhaps his secret was he was a spy or something, since he was so secretive about why he was gone... but both he and Hugh have this desire to hide the fact that they have a care for others and his leaving likely had something to do with helping people on his father's estates on the sly.
I enjoyed to some extent the continuation of the relationships of the secondary characters and how Hugh's mother took on a mothering role for all of them, and the sense of being part of a large family when both the main characters did not have that growing up. But the matchmaking of Giles and Diana by the secondary characters was quite cloying. I can see how they would find it overbearing, because reading about it was too much!
But overall, I enjoyed the story, and the dialogue. I an intrigued by the introduction of the cousin and how that will play out with Vee, the younger sister.
3.75 stars out of 5.
This is the second book of the Merriwell Sisters by Virginia Heath, about the Diana, the younger sister of Minerva, and Giles Sinclair, the good friend of Hugh.
Diana had a very troubled youth with a terrible father, a felonious villain willing to use his daughters in any way to further his gain, and who abandoned them. She has no trust in men and no desire to marry, and every desire to be an independent woman. To this end, she has a job working for a paper, despite being in Society through her sister's marriage to a peer. She encourages her family's belief that her involvement is merely in superficial gossip pieces and editing, and hides the fact that she is behind more journalistic, expose pieces which could put her in danger.
Giles Sinclair, the heir to a dukedom, also has a cold, fraught, contentious relationship with his father. To the point where his father actively prevents Hugh from being allowed on the estates including the home he grew up in. He puts up a facade of being a licentious, libertine rake to goad and rebel against his father, but deep down, he is nothing like he portrays. But he also is the keeper of a deep family secret. When he inherits the dukedom, he works to find find the truth because he wants to be able to save the estates and the tenants he cares deeply for from the harm his father did through neglect, and to protect them from future harm. But it seems an overwhelming task for him, so he turns to someone he knows is capable of ferreting out secrets and truth, and whom he trusts with his secrets, Diana.
Diana and Giles have an interesting contentious relationship, where they are attracted to each other, but because of their own secrets and histories, they suppress and deny the attraction and instead bait, and tease each other. But, probably because of their own secrets they are keeping, they seem to see each other for more than the images they project, and this seems to a contribute to a deeper understanding, and trust in each other that fosters a deeper relationship that develops into more.
I enjoyed the banter between Giles and Diana. There were some quite funny lines, like Diana stating "I barely tolerated him to begin with - but he grew on me. Like a fungus." To which Giles says, "And now I am the victorious champignon of her heart." That tickled my funny bone, and I loved their relationship. But I really liked the development and revealing of Giles' character. In the first book, he seemed quite the superficial rake, friend of Hugh, and I was ready to dismiss him as a bit of an uncaring jerk. I also wondered about when he took off for over a week or so, putting a bit of a wrench into the spoke of Hugh's fake fiancee plan, where he was supposed to stage a fake elopement between Minerva and Giles. I thought perhaps his secret was he was a spy or something, since he was so secretive about why he was gone... but both he and Hugh have this desire to hide the fact that they have a care for others and his leaving likely had something to do with helping people on his father's estates on the sly.
I enjoyed to some extent the continuation of the relationships of the secondary characters and how Hugh's mother took on a mothering role for all of them, and the sense of being part of a large family when both the main characters did not have that growing up. But the matchmaking of Giles and Diana by the secondary characters was quite cloying. I can see how they would find it overbearing, because reading about it was too much!
But overall, I enjoyed the story, and the dialogue. I an intrigued by the introduction of the cousin and how that will play out with Vee, the younger sister.
3.75 stars out of 5.
November 8, 2022
Never Rescue A Rogue is incredible, I was charmed by Giles, the Rogue, and Diana, the Harridan since the first page.
I can only sing the praises of this story and this author.
The atmosphere of the book is totally different from the previous book in the series, it was engaging, intriguing and humorous.
Virginia Heath wonderfully wrote a suspensful, slow burning romance.
The book starts with Giles and Diana banters, they enjoy to tease and to prick each other. Diana thinks that Giles is insufferable, and Giles thinks that Diana is a willful woman, but when hard times come they know they can trust each other.
They make a great team and a beatiful couple, I couldn't not root for them and their happiness.
I highly recommend to read and to enjoy this novel. It's the second in the series but it could be read as a standalone.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
May 30, 2022
3.5 stars
Set in 1826, Diana Merriwell and Giles Sinclair only tolerate one another for the sake of their nearest and dearest. When Giles’ father, the Duke of Harpenden, dies, it’s only a matter of time before someone comes forward who knows the true circumstances of his only son's birth. As the threat of blackmail looms, Giles must uncover the truth of his parentage—and Diana is his best hope at finding the truth.
Giles has a deeply troubled relationship with his father and has encouraged the idea that he had a horrible reputation purely to annoy his cruel and greedy father. It’s a marvel he’s turned out as charming and good natured as he did given his horrible parents.
Diana claims to be a copywriter but secretly writes exposés for a London paper and is struggling with her sister’s marriage that has elevated her status. She finally has her own income and has no intention of marrying and giving up her autonomy.
Diana was a clever character but I found her a little flat and cliché. Giles had more depth.
If you want an accurate late regency setting, this isn’t it. There’s some repetition and not as much soul searching as you’d think for two people who are adamant that they don’t belong together. The resolution was so predictable I got angry at them for not considering it sooner, but somehow I still kept eagerly turning the pages. It took more than half the book before Diana started to help Giles, but it was fast-paced with good chemistry that made me want to read the whole series.
I received an arc from NetGalley
Set in 1826, Diana Merriwell and Giles Sinclair only tolerate one another for the sake of their nearest and dearest. When Giles’ father, the Duke of Harpenden, dies, it’s only a matter of time before someone comes forward who knows the true circumstances of his only son's birth. As the threat of blackmail looms, Giles must uncover the truth of his parentage—and Diana is his best hope at finding the truth.
Giles has a deeply troubled relationship with his father and has encouraged the idea that he had a horrible reputation purely to annoy his cruel and greedy father. It’s a marvel he’s turned out as charming and good natured as he did given his horrible parents.
Diana claims to be a copywriter but secretly writes exposés for a London paper and is struggling with her sister’s marriage that has elevated her status. She finally has her own income and has no intention of marrying and giving up her autonomy.
Diana was a clever character but I found her a little flat and cliché. Giles had more depth.
If you want an accurate late regency setting, this isn’t it. There’s some repetition and not as much soul searching as you’d think for two people who are adamant that they don’t belong together. The resolution was so predictable I got angry at them for not considering it sooner, but somehow I still kept eagerly turning the pages. It took more than half the book before Diana started to help Giles, but it was fast-paced with good chemistry that made me want to read the whole series.
I received an arc from NetGalley
August 22, 2023
First of all, for this audio version I REALLY missed having a male narrator reading the Giles scenes. It would have enhanced the overall story, in my opinion. Kristin Atherton does a pretty good job handling all the characters, but I was such a fan of Shane East's male narration in the previous book of the series that it was a noticeable change in this one. As for the story ... Giles is a good man, but he is in a bit of a pickle when it seems as if he is not the rightful heir to the dukedom he inherited after his father's death. Giles has plans to help the tenants of his estate to modernize their lodgings and receive the benefits that his stingy father wouldn't give them. He wants to do good, but he obviously will not be able to do that if it turns out that he isn't actually the rightful duke. Who better to help him than Diana Merriwell, a tenacious woman who has a secret life as a famous investigative reporter for a local newspaper? Giles and Diana get along surprisingly well, despite banter that might suggest otherwise. All turns out well in the end after hi-jinks along the way. I am glad that Diana finds an HEA after some of the difficulties she has faced in life due to her awful father. I have to say that I think that my favorite characters in both books of these series are the butlers. They are lovely. I'll give this four stars. I liked it.
July 8, 2022
thank you St. Martin's press for the arc!
Never Fall For Your Fiancée was a joy to read and in my review I mentioned how excited I was for Diana and Giles' book. The wait for it was killing me. Imagine my surprise when I got approved for an arc! But there were no surprises that I wouldn't love this book.
Diana and Giles DELIVEREDDDD. Individually and together. Their character arcs aren't original but they took the personalities and made them their own. So much depth and flavour. Maybe the romance part had to be sacrificed for their personal fights (though I would argue that was not the case) but it was worth it! The romance wasn't the forefront and that is exactly how I like it. The pining, the secret glances, the accidental touches, the denial is the good stuff.
Diana was a modern day woman in olden times. The way she craved independence and went and took it instead of waiting for it and oh, the man hating was delightful! Before the anti-feminists barge in, it wasn't actual hating, it was frustration that men had control over women and Diana wanted none of that. She's one of my favourite HR mcs.
Aside from Vee (she was annoying), rest of the family was a delight to read. The jokes and unfailing support they had for each other was the cherry on top.
Never Fall For Your Fiancée was a joy to read and in my review I mentioned how excited I was for Diana and Giles' book. The wait for it was killing me. Imagine my surprise when I got approved for an arc! But there were no surprises that I wouldn't love this book.
Diana and Giles DELIVEREDDDD. Individually and together. Their character arcs aren't original but they took the personalities and made them their own. So much depth and flavour. Maybe the romance part had to be sacrificed for their personal fights (though I would argue that was not the case) but it was worth it! The romance wasn't the forefront and that is exactly how I like it. The pining, the secret glances, the accidental touches, the denial is the good stuff.
Diana was a modern day woman in olden times. The way she craved independence and went and took it instead of waiting for it and oh, the man hating was delightful! Before the anti-feminists barge in, it wasn't actual hating, it was frustration that men had control over women and Diana wanted none of that. She's one of my favourite HR mcs.
Aside from Vee (she was annoying), rest of the family was a delight to read. The jokes and unfailing support they had for each other was the cherry on top.
May 25, 2022
I don’t know about you, but for me, summer reading means romance! And in particular, I’m a sucker for a regency romance. 💕
Diana and Giles are often thrown together and tolerate each other for their families’ sakes. They are constantly at odds, and their families insist it’s because of their attraction to each other. Diana refuses to accept this - she writes for a newspaper and has worked very hard for her freedom.📰 And Giles enjoys his bachelor lifestyle… until he suddenly inherits and becomes a Duke. Someone isn’t happy about Giles’ elevation and is blackmailing him… 😮
I really enjoyed the banter between Diana and Giles. Their insistence on denying their attraction means it’s a slow burn, but when they finally admit their feelings to each other, it is well worth it. 🔥
I also really enjoyed that Giles respects Diana for who she is, including her career and her intelligence. He asks for her help to thwart the blackmailer, and get to know each other better by working together. 😍
If you enjoy regency romances with plenty of banter, then check out this book! 📖
✨Thank you to St Martins Press and Netgalley for the free ebook, in exchange for my honest review.✨
Diana and Giles are often thrown together and tolerate each other for their families’ sakes. They are constantly at odds, and their families insist it’s because of their attraction to each other. Diana refuses to accept this - she writes for a newspaper and has worked very hard for her freedom.📰 And Giles enjoys his bachelor lifestyle… until he suddenly inherits and becomes a Duke. Someone isn’t happy about Giles’ elevation and is blackmailing him… 😮
I really enjoyed the banter between Diana and Giles. Their insistence on denying their attraction means it’s a slow burn, but when they finally admit their feelings to each other, it is well worth it. 🔥
I also really enjoyed that Giles respects Diana for who she is, including her career and her intelligence. He asks for her help to thwart the blackmailer, and get to know each other better by working together. 😍
If you enjoy regency romances with plenty of banter, then check out this book! 📖
✨Thank you to St Martins Press and Netgalley for the free ebook, in exchange for my honest review.✨
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