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Scandalous Seasons #1
Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride
Hopeless romantic, Lady Emmaline Fitzhugh, is tired of sitting with the wallflowers, waiting for her betrothed to come to his senses and marry her. When Emmaline reads one too many reports of his scandalous liaisons in the gossip rags, she takes matters into her own hands.
War-torn veteran, Lord Drake devotes himself to forgetting his days on the Peninsula through an endless round of meaningless associations. He no longer wants to feel anything, but Lady Emmaline is making it hard to maintain a state of numbness. With her zest for life, she awakens his passion and desire for love.
The one woman Drake has spent the better part of his life avoiding is now the only woman he needs, but he is no longer a man worthy of his Emmaline. It is up to her to show him the healing power of love.
War-torn veteran, Lord Drake devotes himself to forgetting his days on the Peninsula through an endless round of meaningless associations. He no longer wants to feel anything, but Lady Emmaline is making it hard to maintain a state of numbness. With her zest for life, she awakens his passion and desire for love.
The one woman Drake has spent the better part of his life avoiding is now the only woman he needs, but he is no longer a man worthy of his Emmaline. It is up to her to show him the healing power of love.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 29, 2013
2400 people are currently reading
2094 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
136 books2,558 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 410 reviews
June 27, 2018
DNF 40%. Here was my progression of thoughts during the book. I knew it would be a waste of time and this far in the book, I know there are other more pressing things on my tbr list. If y'all think I should continue and that the hero can redeem himself from what a fucking cunty asshole he is please encourage me to continue. Otherwise, I'm done with this book.
20.0% "A fifth of the way in and I still fucking hate this hero, he's literally the biggest piece of shit for no reason at all. He's petty and childish and if he doesn't improve within the first half I'm dnfing and leaving this ish"
30.0% "Ok this piece of trash hero hasn’t improved at all and while assholes are okay, there’s a fucking limit, like when the hero insults the heroine over and over again yet she still pines after him? He’ll no. He has not redeemed himself one bit. I’m out"
35.0% "Ok seriously what the actual fuck. he ignores her, insults her, leads her on, kisses her, throws her out, and then is straight up mean to her. she literally did nothing wrong. and now he's jealous that another guy may be interested in her? This hero is the epitome of what i DON"T look for in a man. Zero communication. A fucking idiot. at this point im skimming"
37.0% "WTF AGAIN???!!!! HE LITERALLY SLEEPS AROUND AND HE'S JEALOUS SHE'S TALKING TO ANOTHER GUY? AND THINKS HE CAN DICTATE WHAT SHES WEARING?? WHAT THE FUCK WAS THIS AUTHOR ON WHEN SHE WROTE THIS BOOK"
38.0% "I FUCKING HATE HIM WAEHRFQEWBAWKJEDFWEIBEW"
40.0% "WOOOWWW OKAY SO HIS BULLSHIT PTSD JUST MAKES UP FOR EVERY AWFUL THING HE'S DONE TO HER??
NO SYMPATHY FROM ME MOTHERFUCKER"
20.0% "A fifth of the way in and I still fucking hate this hero, he's literally the biggest piece of shit for no reason at all. He's petty and childish and if he doesn't improve within the first half I'm dnfing and leaving this ish"
30.0% "Ok this piece of trash hero hasn’t improved at all and while assholes are okay, there’s a fucking limit, like when the hero insults the heroine over and over again yet she still pines after him? He’ll no. He has not redeemed himself one bit. I’m out"
35.0% "Ok seriously what the actual fuck. he ignores her, insults her, leads her on, kisses her, throws her out, and then is straight up mean to her. she literally did nothing wrong. and now he's jealous that another guy may be interested in her? This hero is the epitome of what i DON"T look for in a man. Zero communication. A fucking idiot. at this point im skimming"
37.0% "WTF AGAIN???!!!! HE LITERALLY SLEEPS AROUND AND HE'S JEALOUS SHE'S TALKING TO ANOTHER GUY? AND THINKS HE CAN DICTATE WHAT SHES WEARING?? WHAT THE FUCK WAS THIS AUTHOR ON WHEN SHE WROTE THIS BOOK"
38.0% "I FUCKING HATE HIM WAEHRFQEWBAWKJEDFWEIBEW"
40.0% "WOOOWWW OKAY SO HIS BULLSHIT PTSD JUST MAKES UP FOR EVERY AWFUL THING HE'S DONE TO HER??
NO SYMPATHY FROM ME MOTHERFUCKER"
March 18, 2015
Disappointing. I tried for 20% of the book and then skipped to the end to see if anything got better to make it worth wading through. After the 80% mark, all we get are a bunch of repetitive sex scenes. This was not what I signed up for and I do not understand all of the hype and popularity. The writing was simplistic, the hero was betrothed to the heroine and even though the betrothal wasn't his choice, it did not excuse him from cheating on her with an opera singer (I know this was a norm back then, but I don't want to read how "nubile" she was), and he was cold. The heroine is always getting into scrapes and is screaming at people over injustices and it just was not fun to read about.
I feel like I'm babbling. I don't like writing negative reviews, especially for authors that are new to me, but I just had to get my thoughts out there. I think she may be popular because of the excessive sex at the end and that just bugs me. I felt deceived. The writing is not the caliber of my other beloved romance authors and yet this author is super popular on Amazon. I am not sure why. Maybe she has a cult following who down vote the heck out of negative reviews, who knows.
Anyway, I will not be trying other books by this author unless a goodreads buddy reads another one and enjoys it. For now, I'll pass on future books by her.
I feel like I'm babbling. I don't like writing negative reviews, especially for authors that are new to me, but I just had to get my thoughts out there. I think she may be popular because of the excessive sex at the end and that just bugs me. I felt deceived. The writing is not the caliber of my other beloved romance authors and yet this author is super popular on Amazon. I am not sure why. Maybe she has a cult following who down vote the heck out of negative reviews, who knows.
Anyway, I will not be trying other books by this author unless a goodreads buddy reads another one and enjoys it. For now, I'll pass on future books by her.
March 8, 2015
FOREVER BETROTHED, NEVER THE BRIDE is the first book I have read by Christi Caldwell and I was totally captivated by this charming, romantic, funny and poignant story.
Drake resents the fact that his future had been mapped out for him since he was a young boy. Desperate to escape the exacting expectations imposed by his father, he enlists in the army only to find himself caught up in the horrors of the Napoleonic war…a war that he can never forget.
He would never escape the war. His mind would forever remain on the bloody fields of battle.
Sleepless nights, hellish nightmares and bouts of lost self-control convince him that he is a madman. To retain a hold on sanity, he buries himself in mindless pursuits… drink and women…his relationships devoid of any emotional connection. He has no intention of marrying…he has no intention of submitting any woman to his dark nightmares. Although betrothed to Emmaline for fifteen years, their contact has been limited and, since his return from the war, he has deliberately avoided her. So he knows very little about Emmaline until one memorable encounter leaves him eager to find out more about his intriguing betrothed.
Wallflowers were content to be dull creatures seated on the sidelines, escaping any notice. They were not clever young ladies with cheeky retorts.
A little over 5 feet tall and lacking the requisite curves, Emmaline is considered rather unremarkable by the ton. Everyone knows she is betrothed and, therefore, honour dictates that no other gentleman can court her. Relegated to the being a virtual wallflower and food for the gossips, she has suffered the indignities with only her dear friend, Sophie for moral support. Although she longs for a marriage full of love and passion, her strong sense of loyalty to her father makes her determined to fulfil her obligation and marry Drake. Drastic situations require drastic measures.
“There will be no more opera singers, ballet dancers, young widows, none of it. His days of carefree debauchery are officially at an end. He just doesn’t know it yet, but he will, beginning tonight.”
Oh, Emmeline is such a delightful heroine…mischievous, courageous and funny. Oh yes, she also talks to plants and reads Gothic novels. When she decides to ‘stalk’ Drake, I thought it was hilarious. My favourite scene is when she suddenly appears unannounced in his opera box, proceeds to rebuke him for his behaviour and then makes a dramatic exit, leaving Drake furious.
Drake sputtered around another mouthful of red velvet curtains as Lady Emmaline made her dramatic exit from his opera box. Cursing under his breath, he violently slammed the drapes down, back into place.
I even felt a little sorry for Drake…poor man didn’t know what hit him!
Emmaline’s compassion for and empathy with the soldiers she visits in the London Hospital has earned her their respect, admiration and loyalty. It also helps her to understand Drake and see beyond the protective barrier Drake has erected around himself to the emotionally scarred man beneath. She is perfect for Drake with her warmth, compassion and insight, she makes him laugh and feel alive again.
I love tormented heroes because they always have a tougher time on their road to a happy ending but, it makes their journey more satisfying to me as a reader. Drake’s struggle to confront his wartime experiences and not run from them adds a serious note to the story and the scene where he visits the London Hospital and talks to fellow soldiers is both poignant and heart-warming.
A wave of relief filled him. There was solace in knowing he was not alone – that there were others who shared his struggle.
I love the analogy Emmeline’s brother, Sebastien draws between her old bonnet and Drake and it was a charming touch at the end when Sebastien says to a confused Drake…
“Tell Emmeline to throw out the bonnet I’d given her. Tell her I said her bonnet is just fine.”
Ms Caldwell has gathered an interesting cast of secondary characters, all begging for their own stories; Drake’s best friend, the straight-talking, witty Lord Sinclair (I loved their banter); Emmaline’s bubbly friend and confidante, Sophie Winters and Emmeline’s haughty, over-protective brother Sebastian, Duke of Mallen (he doesn’t stand a chance when Emmeline and their mother gang up against him). There is one more important character I must mention – a little, scruffy, black puppy called Sir Faithful.
Overall, this was an engaging story written with warmth, wit and style and I will definitely be reading the other books in the series.
REVIEW RATING: 5/5 STARS
Scandalous Seasons series (click on the covers for more details):
Drake resents the fact that his future had been mapped out for him since he was a young boy. Desperate to escape the exacting expectations imposed by his father, he enlists in the army only to find himself caught up in the horrors of the Napoleonic war…a war that he can never forget.
He would never escape the war. His mind would forever remain on the bloody fields of battle.
Sleepless nights, hellish nightmares and bouts of lost self-control convince him that he is a madman. To retain a hold on sanity, he buries himself in mindless pursuits… drink and women…his relationships devoid of any emotional connection. He has no intention of marrying…he has no intention of submitting any woman to his dark nightmares. Although betrothed to Emmaline for fifteen years, their contact has been limited and, since his return from the war, he has deliberately avoided her. So he knows very little about Emmaline until one memorable encounter leaves him eager to find out more about his intriguing betrothed.
Wallflowers were content to be dull creatures seated on the sidelines, escaping any notice. They were not clever young ladies with cheeky retorts.
A little over 5 feet tall and lacking the requisite curves, Emmaline is considered rather unremarkable by the ton. Everyone knows she is betrothed and, therefore, honour dictates that no other gentleman can court her. Relegated to the being a virtual wallflower and food for the gossips, she has suffered the indignities with only her dear friend, Sophie for moral support. Although she longs for a marriage full of love and passion, her strong sense of loyalty to her father makes her determined to fulfil her obligation and marry Drake. Drastic situations require drastic measures.
“There will be no more opera singers, ballet dancers, young widows, none of it. His days of carefree debauchery are officially at an end. He just doesn’t know it yet, but he will, beginning tonight.”
Oh, Emmeline is such a delightful heroine…mischievous, courageous and funny. Oh yes, she also talks to plants and reads Gothic novels. When she decides to ‘stalk’ Drake, I thought it was hilarious. My favourite scene is when she suddenly appears unannounced in his opera box, proceeds to rebuke him for his behaviour and then makes a dramatic exit, leaving Drake furious.
Drake sputtered around another mouthful of red velvet curtains as Lady Emmaline made her dramatic exit from his opera box. Cursing under his breath, he violently slammed the drapes down, back into place.
I even felt a little sorry for Drake…poor man didn’t know what hit him!
Emmaline’s compassion for and empathy with the soldiers she visits in the London Hospital has earned her their respect, admiration and loyalty. It also helps her to understand Drake and see beyond the protective barrier Drake has erected around himself to the emotionally scarred man beneath. She is perfect for Drake with her warmth, compassion and insight, she makes him laugh and feel alive again.
I love tormented heroes because they always have a tougher time on their road to a happy ending but, it makes their journey more satisfying to me as a reader. Drake’s struggle to confront his wartime experiences and not run from them adds a serious note to the story and the scene where he visits the London Hospital and talks to fellow soldiers is both poignant and heart-warming.
A wave of relief filled him. There was solace in knowing he was not alone – that there were others who shared his struggle.
I love the analogy Emmeline’s brother, Sebastien draws between her old bonnet and Drake and it was a charming touch at the end when Sebastien says to a confused Drake…
“Tell Emmeline to throw out the bonnet I’d given her. Tell her I said her bonnet is just fine.”
Ms Caldwell has gathered an interesting cast of secondary characters, all begging for their own stories; Drake’s best friend, the straight-talking, witty Lord Sinclair (I loved their banter); Emmaline’s bubbly friend and confidante, Sophie Winters and Emmeline’s haughty, over-protective brother Sebastian, Duke of Mallen (he doesn’t stand a chance when Emmeline and their mother gang up against him). There is one more important character I must mention – a little, scruffy, black puppy called Sir Faithful.
Overall, this was an engaging story written with warmth, wit and style and I will definitely be reading the other books in the series.
REVIEW RATING: 5/5 STARS
Scandalous Seasons series (click on the covers for more details):
January 26, 2016
Sometimes I wonder, am I from Mars?
Why? Because sometimes when I am reading, I wonder, who are these people who talk like this?
Drake in this book, despite being tormented, said things that just didn't fit into his characterization. The attempt to paint him as a tortured hero is not a complete failure but his "realization" that Emmaline is so very important to him and what he said just sounds like a teenage girl's fantasy.
I find it really interesting though, how the story managed to be interesting enough for me to want to give it a 3 stars. The writing is not impressive, plots are disconnected, characterization is poor, but Ms. Caldwell really had a good premise. The veteran post trauma theme is very touching. I wish it was examined more in depth.
The problem with chracterization: for Drake the problem was that it just did not fit. I could almost buy it if he had double personalities and I could also buy it if that was attributed to his PTSD. But somehow he just went around saying things. Some sound like him and some just sound like they came from a besotted 16-year-old boy.
With Emmaline the problem is bigger. I cannot picture her. Is she pretty or not? Is she a wallflower or not? Sometimes she sounds childish, sometimes she sounds smart, sometimes she sounds spoiled, sometimes she sounds dumb. The characters of Emmaline and Drake are inconsistent. The writer says they are one thing but what they say make them someone else. It was rather frustrating for me. If he is a rake, make him talk like one, not a besotted teenager.
I am no writer and for the life of me can never write a book. So I feel awfully out of place to criticize one's writing. I have the utmost respect for writers like Ms. Caldwell. That being said, this really wasn't a great love story. Too shallow in its characterization and depiction of love, emotions and anguish. And Emmaline being a ninny going after Drake is just pathetic...............
Why? Because sometimes when I am reading, I wonder, who are these people who talk like this?
Drake in this book, despite being tormented, said things that just didn't fit into his characterization. The attempt to paint him as a tortured hero is not a complete failure but his "realization" that Emmaline is so very important to him and what he said just sounds like a teenage girl's fantasy.
I find it really interesting though, how the story managed to be interesting enough for me to want to give it a 3 stars. The writing is not impressive, plots are disconnected, characterization is poor, but Ms. Caldwell really had a good premise. The veteran post trauma theme is very touching. I wish it was examined more in depth.
The problem with chracterization: for Drake the problem was that it just did not fit. I could almost buy it if he had double personalities and I could also buy it if that was attributed to his PTSD. But somehow he just went around saying things. Some sound like him and some just sound like they came from a besotted 16-year-old boy.
With Emmaline the problem is bigger. I cannot picture her. Is she pretty or not? Is she a wallflower or not? Sometimes she sounds childish, sometimes she sounds smart, sometimes she sounds spoiled, sometimes she sounds dumb. The characters of Emmaline and Drake are inconsistent. The writer says they are one thing but what they say make them someone else. It was rather frustrating for me. If he is a rake, make him talk like one, not a besotted teenager.
I am no writer and for the life of me can never write a book. So I feel awfully out of place to criticize one's writing. I have the utmost respect for writers like Ms. Caldwell. That being said, this really wasn't a great love story. Too shallow in its characterization and depiction of love, emotions and anguish. And Emmaline being a ninny going after Drake is just pathetic...............
April 3, 2020
3 okay stars for me.
Nice, sweet and happily fresh at places. Generic, okayish and anachronistic at other places.
The much used, abused trope of a H chaffing at being engaged when young through an arranged match by parents and then by rebelling in all ways that young men do - first by recklessly joining the military and then by drinking, carousing and whoring around when he gets back. And ignores his fiancee completely in the three years he's back and that when they both seem to majorly reside in London. How he manages that and how he's allowed to do that is a mystery.
Quite an ungentlemanly conduct.
So, they meet as the book opens and suddenly he's smitten?! (Of course, the h's a convenient 2o to his 28 now.) The plain Jane wallflower turns into an enchantress/seductress. *eyeroll*
An now we get a 'solid' excuse for his previous callous disregard - PTSD. A sensitive topic, that is very commonly and casually bandied about for a guy's assh*le behavior in the romance genre.
I found the h's all out pursuit of her reluctant betrothed to be somewhat charming although brow-raising. Especially when she calmly interacts with his present and probable mistresses. That is a big no-no in ways of anachronism alerts. But she manages to evoke credible angst as well.
So the book shows flashes of agreeable angst and bright spots before fading into mediocrity.
Nice, sweet and happily fresh at places. Generic, okayish and anachronistic at other places.
The much used, abused trope of a H chaffing at being engaged when young through an arranged match by parents and then by rebelling in all ways that young men do - first by recklessly joining the military and then by drinking, carousing and whoring around when he gets back. And ignores his fiancee completely in the three years he's back and that when they both seem to majorly reside in London. How he manages that and how he's allowed to do that is a mystery.
Quite an ungentlemanly conduct.
So, they meet as the book opens and suddenly he's smitten?! (Of course, the h's a convenient 2o to his 28 now.) The plain Jane wallflower turns into an enchantress/seductress. *eyeroll*
An now we get a 'solid' excuse for his previous callous disregard - PTSD. A sensitive topic, that is very commonly and casually bandied about for a guy's assh*le behavior in the romance genre.
I found the h's all out pursuit of her reluctant betrothed to be somewhat charming although brow-raising. Especially when she calmly interacts with his present and probable mistresses. That is a big no-no in ways of anachronism alerts. But she manages to evoke credible angst as well.
So the book shows flashes of agreeable angst and bright spots before fading into mediocrity.
December 22, 2014
PTSD is a serious condition and I am empathetic towards the hero's suffering. However, it does not excuse his shameful behavior towards the heroine. There is nothing honorable about his attitudes or actions. She was humiliated over and over again by him yet she continued to be optimistic. Her nature is to forgive and she does so very easily but the sickening fact is that he never apologizes for the hurt he causes her.
Readers who want to know if he cheated during their lengthily betrothal: he most definitely did.
This is not one of those romances where the hero adores his heroine.
Readers who want to know if he cheated during their lengthily betrothal: he most definitely did.
This is not one of those romances where the hero adores his heroine.
July 23, 2021
Emmeline and Drake. I really wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did. But the writing was good and the characters changed over time as they got to know each other. The historical accuracy isn't too bad either, although Emmeline was probably still too modern to be realistic. Drake is betrothed to Emmeline when he is 13 and she is 5 and he holds it against her for many years. Not quite sure how many but it was enough to make you dislike him from the get go. He runs off to join the war against Napoleon just to get away from his obligation. This turns out to have terrible consequences for him. He returns with a bad case of PTSD and becomes the worst sort of dissolute male slut in an attempt to escape his demons. After a few years, Emmeline who has been left hanging in unmarried limbo, decides to make a stand. Things just tumble out of control for Drake after that. The story moves at a good pace and is actually emotionally moving as well. There was a depth of feeling provoked by the characters that I wasn't expecting and was nicely written.
..................................
After revisiting this one, I just wasn't satisfied. He is remorseful in his head but he never really voices that to Emmy. He wallows in self pity instead. He never feels humility for his slutty excesses while being betrothed. He's like a big man-child.
Really, the biggest problem is that Emmy is a doormat. I think you can be strong and support your man without lying down on the sidewalk. She never tells him off, no matter how much of an ass he is to her. The only stand she takes is when she cancels their betrothal, and give him any guff while doing it.
If he'd not turned away from her the second and third time, I would have liked the story better.
The epilogue is only a couple paragraphs set a couple months in the future. So that was a let down too.
SO down to 3 stars. I guess this author just isn't for me.
..................................
After revisiting this one, I just wasn't satisfied. He is remorseful in his head but he never really voices that to Emmy. He wallows in self pity instead. He never feels humility for his slutty excesses while being betrothed. He's like a big man-child.
Really, the biggest problem is that Emmy is a doormat. I think you can be strong and support your man without lying down on the sidewalk. She never tells him off, no matter how much of an ass he is to her. The only stand she takes is when she cancels their betrothal, and give him any guff while doing it.
If he'd not turned away from her the second and third time, I would have liked the story better.
The epilogue is only a couple paragraphs set a couple months in the future. So that was a let down too.
SO down to 3 stars. I guess this author just isn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2016
★★★★½ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Loved the narrator, Tim Campbell. Definitely will listen to him again. Loved the hero & heroine, too. Nothing new here, but it is all so well done. Took my time with it by just listening in the car, but found myself looking forward to hearing the next installment; finally, started listening to it while I cooked. Fun and sweet.
January 26, 2016
She was the second historical romance writer whose books I read after Delle Jacob.....there is two reasons this book worked for me.....Emmalines' letters and Drakes PTSD....I am a sucker for stories with love letters....and since I was raised in a war torn country I understand PTSD only too well....I remember when I was a little girl stuck in a bomb shelter I would imagine different scenarios in my mind...of someone who is searching for me...writing letters to me....someone who would rescue me from this hell.....although I rescued myself (proudly) those memories have stayed with me and this book really resonanted with me because of that....I think I was too involved in my reminiscence to think of all the technicalities such as plot and character development!
September 23, 2020
No, no, no. Working with Vets, I usually appreciate a story that addresses PTS but I am sick to death of stories where the hero becomes a whoring drunk to deal with his problems. Just please stop this trend. PTS doesn't make you an asshole. Drake was an asshole to begin with. And, ladies, just an FYI, guys who drink to oblivion usually are not studs in the bed. Just saying - lots of alcohol does not equal great performance.
February 8, 2016
My first Christi Caldwell book. I'd heard from a reliable source that her books are awesome. I'm glad I tried one. I will definitely be reading more. Charming characters and witty dialogue.
December 28, 2025
Read: 12/19/25
Setting: Regency England
Trope: arranged betrothal
3.0 stars
Meh!
plot: Drake has been betrothed to Emmaline since they were children. Resentful at having his future arranged, Drake ran off to war. He has since returned home a war hero. Now, Drake spends most of his days drinking, gambling, and wenching, anything to numb his pain.
In the three years since his return, Drake has avoided his betrothed and Emmaline has had enough! She will not be ignored any longer. With the help of Drake's friend, Emmaline starts a campaign to win Drake. She starts
showing up at every event Drake attends, forcing him to remember she exists.
Surprisingly, Drake starts to fall for his sweet wife. She's not the insipid debutante he expected her to be. Drake starts to hope that Emmaline might be able to banish the darkness inside him, that is until he hurts her while in the throes of a nightmare. He can't risk hurting her again. What he doesn't know is that Emmaline can be just as stubborn and she refuses to allow Drake to retreat from her.
liked:
1. Only someone who kicks puppies would hate Emmaline. She was kind, funny, and wise beyond her years. I just adored her!
2. Drake's PSTD was handled well.
3. I liked when Drake starts accompanying Emmaline to the orphanage and poor hospital. This soon opens Drake's eyes to the suffering around him. He can't sit idle by and let it continue. His new generosity reminded me of the ending to A Christmas Carol.
dislikes:
1. If my betrothed ran off to war to escape marrying me, I think I would have taken the hint and broken the betrothal contract. The only reason Emmaline wouldn't give up on Drake is because this was who her late father wanted her to marry. This was a weak excuse for the years of indignity that she had to endure.
2. I couldn't figure out why her powerful brother sat back and allowed her to be humiliated for 3 years. He should have forced the issue a long time ago.
3. All of the s**t he put Emmaline through, I would have liked a little groveling. Emmaline was too forgiving.
Conclusion: I was a little disappointed. The book wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either. The story, sadly, was forgettable
Setting: Regency England
Trope: arranged betrothal
3.0 stars
Meh!
plot: Drake has been betrothed to Emmaline since they were children. Resentful at having his future arranged, Drake ran off to war. He has since returned home a war hero. Now, Drake spends most of his days drinking, gambling, and wenching, anything to numb his pain.
In the three years since his return, Drake has avoided his betrothed and Emmaline has had enough! She will not be ignored any longer. With the help of Drake's friend, Emmaline starts a campaign to win Drake. She starts
showing up at every event Drake attends, forcing him to remember she exists.
Surprisingly, Drake starts to fall for his sweet wife. She's not the insipid debutante he expected her to be. Drake starts to hope that Emmaline might be able to banish the darkness inside him, that is until he hurts her while in the throes of a nightmare. He can't risk hurting her again. What he doesn't know is that Emmaline can be just as stubborn and she refuses to allow Drake to retreat from her.
liked:
1. Only someone who kicks puppies would hate Emmaline. She was kind, funny, and wise beyond her years. I just adored her!
2. Drake's PSTD was handled well.
3. I liked when Drake starts accompanying Emmaline to the orphanage and poor hospital. This soon opens Drake's eyes to the suffering around him. He can't sit idle by and let it continue. His new generosity reminded me of the ending to A Christmas Carol.
dislikes:
1. If my betrothed ran off to war to escape marrying me, I think I would have taken the hint and broken the betrothal contract. The only reason Emmaline wouldn't give up on Drake is because this was who her late father wanted her to marry. This was a weak excuse for the years of indignity that she had to endure.
2. I couldn't figure out why her powerful brother sat back and allowed her to be humiliated for 3 years. He should have forced the issue a long time ago.
3. All of the s**t he put Emmaline through, I would have liked a little groveling. Emmaline was too forgiving.
Conclusion: I was a little disappointed. The book wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either. The story, sadly, was forgettable
August 10, 2015
3.5!
There were so many beautiful things about this story that I wanted to rate it higher, but the snags I found just got to be too much to where they distracted me from the story.
Lord Drake went to war to escape a betrothal contract put in place when he was a child. When he returned from fighting Napolean's forces, he came back with a severe case of PTSD. Believing himself unworthy of a woman's love and also unwilling to put her in harm's way by marrying her (he thinks he'll have dangerous flashbacks and potentially hurt her), he avoids his betrothed at all costs for three years, until she forces her way into his life.
Lady Emmaline has been the source of ridicule all of her adult life, known for being constantly jilted by her betrothed, who has made it obvious to the Ton that he wants nothing to do with her. Well, she's tired of living life on the sidelines. She pursues him, throwing herself into his path at every opportunity.
Obviously, this is a romance, so there is an HEA.
Here's what I didn't like about it:
1) In the beginning Lady Emmaline came off as a bit immature and juvenile: scheming to chase after a man who obviously didn't want her. I actually pitied her in some cases and I wanted to shake her and shout "Have some self respect! Stop throwing yourself at him and embarrassing yourself."
2) Drake had his good moments and his bad moments. While he was avoiding Emmaline, he treated her like dirt, belittling her and insulting her. Of course, we readers know that he secretly fancied her and was just fighting it because he didn't feel worthy, but that still doesn't excuse all of his behavior in my opinion, and his treating her so poorly made her look all the more pathetic for continuing to chase him.
3) It made no sense why her family (or his, for that matter), didn't dissolve the betrothal contract sooner. I mean, he was back from the war, gambing, whoring and ridiculing his fiancé for THREE YEARS before they ever even saw each other. How come the family was okay with that and holding them both to the contract until they actually finally started seeing each other? THEN, they were all prepared to end the betrothal. Just didn't make sense. There were other inconsistencies that went along with this (ie. the brother's behavior/actions, Drake's father, etc.) It just took away some of the drama for me, knowing that this whole thing could have been resolved earlier and better, and the prolonging of the dissolution of the contract was just used as a tool by the author.
Okay - what I liked about the story:
1) The portrayal of the PTSD. I have a sibling who suffers from PTSD and I think the author handled it very well. She really made me feel for Drake and his struggle with the disease, and it was the only thing that redeemed him and his deplorable behavior, in my book.
2) When Emmaline and Drake finally came together and were in love, Em's handling of the PTSD situation was very respectful and tender. It made me love their story.
3) I loved that the author took us into their marriage and their struggles with the PTSD. I would have hated it had she made them end up together and that all-powerful love just erased his PTSD. I would have hated it because that is unrealistic. Instead, she went into a very realistic portrayal of how PTSD affects a person and a marriage.
The last half of the book made up for the first half. If she'd ended the story after they got together, I would have rated this a 1.5-2 stars.
There were so many beautiful things about this story that I wanted to rate it higher, but the snags I found just got to be too much to where they distracted me from the story.
Lord Drake went to war to escape a betrothal contract put in place when he was a child. When he returned from fighting Napolean's forces, he came back with a severe case of PTSD. Believing himself unworthy of a woman's love and also unwilling to put her in harm's way by marrying her (he thinks he'll have dangerous flashbacks and potentially hurt her), he avoids his betrothed at all costs for three years, until she forces her way into his life.
Lady Emmaline has been the source of ridicule all of her adult life, known for being constantly jilted by her betrothed, who has made it obvious to the Ton that he wants nothing to do with her. Well, she's tired of living life on the sidelines. She pursues him, throwing herself into his path at every opportunity.
Obviously, this is a romance, so there is an HEA.
Here's what I didn't like about it:
1) In the beginning Lady Emmaline came off as a bit immature and juvenile: scheming to chase after a man who obviously didn't want her. I actually pitied her in some cases and I wanted to shake her and shout "Have some self respect! Stop throwing yourself at him and embarrassing yourself."
2) Drake had his good moments and his bad moments. While he was avoiding Emmaline, he treated her like dirt, belittling her and insulting her. Of course, we readers know that he secretly fancied her and was just fighting it because he didn't feel worthy, but that still doesn't excuse all of his behavior in my opinion, and his treating her so poorly made her look all the more pathetic for continuing to chase him.
3) It made no sense why her family (or his, for that matter), didn't dissolve the betrothal contract sooner. I mean, he was back from the war, gambing, whoring and ridiculing his fiancé for THREE YEARS before they ever even saw each other. How come the family was okay with that and holding them both to the contract until they actually finally started seeing each other? THEN, they were all prepared to end the betrothal. Just didn't make sense. There were other inconsistencies that went along with this (ie. the brother's behavior/actions, Drake's father, etc.) It just took away some of the drama for me, knowing that this whole thing could have been resolved earlier and better, and the prolonging of the dissolution of the contract was just used as a tool by the author.
Okay - what I liked about the story:
1) The portrayal of the PTSD. I have a sibling who suffers from PTSD and I think the author handled it very well. She really made me feel for Drake and his struggle with the disease, and it was the only thing that redeemed him and his deplorable behavior, in my book.
2) When Emmaline and Drake finally came together and were in love, Em's handling of the PTSD situation was very respectful and tender. It made me love their story.
3) I loved that the author took us into their marriage and their struggles with the PTSD. I would have hated it had she made them end up together and that all-powerful love just erased his PTSD. I would have hated it because that is unrealistic. Instead, she went into a very realistic portrayal of how PTSD affects a person and a marriage.
The last half of the book made up for the first half. If she'd ended the story after they got together, I would have rated this a 1.5-2 stars.
February 21, 2018
Note: I composed an awesome review if I said so myself. Only you guys would never know because it got lost in GR's Lost and Found section. But, I don't think it can be found again.
Just to point how lazy I am to type another awesome review, I'll just gave you guys the rundown of it in bullets:-
* The first half was awesome
* The second half was okay I guess. (At this point Emmaline was annoying and Drake was a simpering young lady)
* I was hoping for Sebastian's story next only to find out that his would be the last book in the series and to be partner with the one I don't wish him to be partner to.
Just to point how lazy I am to type another awesome review, I'll just gave you guys the rundown of it in bullets:-
* The first half was awesome
* The second half was okay I guess. (At this point Emmaline was annoying and Drake was a simpering young lady)
* I was hoping for Sebastian's story next only to find out that his would be the last book in the series and to be partner with the one I don't wish him to be partner to.
July 31, 2015
I absolutely adore Emmaline. It is a rare book, indeed, when I love the heroine even more than I love the hero. But so is the case with Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride. This story grabbed me from page one and kept me turning page after page.
Emmaline and Lord Drake have been betrothed since the tender ages of 5 and 13, respectively. As a future Duke, Lord Drake's father has always taken the power to chose firmly out of Drake's hands. His choice of bride. His choice of college. In a reckless moment of rebellion, Drake enlists in the army and fights many years in the war only to return a broken and tortured soul. His battle with PTSD is heart-breaking.
I loved how the author began every chapter with a brief note written by Emmaline to Lord Drake - notes written over the years as Emmaline longed to get to know her betrothed - notes she never dared actually send. Emmaline's character is sweet yet sassy, beautiful in spirit though not praised for her physical beauty and above all determined to finally get her betrothed to claim her.
What ensues is a wonderful love story. One that made my heart ache horribly for both the H/h and brought tears to my eyes. But have no fear, these two eventually get their HEA though the path getting there was rough.
This is a story that I will definitely pick up in the future to enjoy again.
Emmaline and Lord Drake have been betrothed since the tender ages of 5 and 13, respectively. As a future Duke, Lord Drake's father has always taken the power to chose firmly out of Drake's hands. His choice of bride. His choice of college. In a reckless moment of rebellion, Drake enlists in the army and fights many years in the war only to return a broken and tortured soul. His battle with PTSD is heart-breaking.
I loved how the author began every chapter with a brief note written by Emmaline to Lord Drake - notes written over the years as Emmaline longed to get to know her betrothed - notes she never dared actually send. Emmaline's character is sweet yet sassy, beautiful in spirit though not praised for her physical beauty and above all determined to finally get her betrothed to claim her.
What ensues is a wonderful love story. One that made my heart ache horribly for both the H/h and brought tears to my eyes. But have no fear, these two eventually get their HEA though the path getting there was rough.
This is a story that I will definitely pick up in the future to enjoy again.
January 16, 2022
This one was not great but I’m somewhat surprised by some of the vitriolic reviews.
1. They were betrothed as children.
2. He went off to war to tweak his father for the betrothal agreement.
3. He comes home with PTSD, and he acts out with alcohol and man whoring behavior.
He’s shown no interest in fulfilling the terms of the families’ agreement when she decides to get his attention, and wages a campaign that at times is entertaining.
She and the secondary characters are interesting, but he’s a bit of a caricature of the wounded hero, who served honorably but isn’t behaving honorably once home.
2 star story, 1 star to compensate for the hate the cheater reviews. She was 5 and he was 13 when they were engaged, give it a break.
1. They were betrothed as children.
2. He went off to war to tweak his father for the betrothal agreement.
3. He comes home with PTSD, and he acts out with alcohol and man whoring behavior.
He’s shown no interest in fulfilling the terms of the families’ agreement when she decides to get his attention, and wages a campaign that at times is entertaining.
She and the secondary characters are interesting, but he’s a bit of a caricature of the wounded hero, who served honorably but isn’t behaving honorably once home.
2 star story, 1 star to compensate for the hate the cheater reviews. She was 5 and he was 13 when they were engaged, give it a break.
June 6, 2016
I very, very rarely just link to another review (I think I've only done it one other time), but this reviewer basically said everything I thought was fortunate and unfortunate about this book, especially the deficiencies of the hero and heroine and the accurate and sensitive portrayal of PTSD (albeit from the Napoleonic War). Why reinvent the wheel? Here is her review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 14, 2015
I'm having a hard time assigning a number of stars to this book.
On the one hand, the plot is good.
(They've been betrothed since they were kids. The boy resented it so much he joined the army, where he got messed up mentally and physically in the Napoleonic Wars. When he gets back, he's such a mess and still resentful, that he never bothers to get around to visiting his betrothed, much less carrying through the wedding. Except when they start to get to know each other, they start falling in love.)
The characters are good.
(He's sullen, even after years and years, then he's worried that his PTSD will hurt her and he thinks he's crazy. She's gone from little girl fascinated by this prince of a man, to an unrealistic young lady, to finally understanding him.)
And yet....
Well, the book could have ended halfway through, but the author thought it wasn't long enough, so tossed in the same old roadblocks, but higher this time.
I felt that the hero was awfully immature for an awful long time. It's not like his was the only arranged marriage ever. He wasn't stuck with a total dud (Made me think of Eloisa Jame's The Duke is Mine.)
Worst of all...
The author uses some old-fashioned and big words to give the flavor of the Regency period.... and uses some of them wrong. MAKES ME CRAZY. For example, "Erstwhile" means former, not... assiduous or ardent or whatever she tried to make it mean.
So 4 for characters, 4 for plot, and 2 because I was irritated. Maybe 3.5? The 4s outweigh the 2... Oh heck.
On the one hand, the plot is good.
(They've been betrothed since they were kids. The boy resented it so much he joined the army, where he got messed up mentally and physically in the Napoleonic Wars. When he gets back, he's such a mess and still resentful, that he never bothers to get around to visiting his betrothed, much less carrying through the wedding. Except when they start to get to know each other, they start falling in love.)
The characters are good.
(He's sullen, even after years and years, then he's worried that his PTSD will hurt her and he thinks he's crazy. She's gone from little girl fascinated by this prince of a man, to an unrealistic young lady, to finally understanding him.)
And yet....
Well, the book could have ended halfway through, but the author thought it wasn't long enough, so tossed in the same old roadblocks, but higher this time.
I felt that the hero was awfully immature for an awful long time. It's not like his was the only arranged marriage ever. He wasn't stuck with a total dud (Made me think of Eloisa Jame's The Duke is Mine.)
Worst of all...
The author uses some old-fashioned and big words to give the flavor of the Regency period.... and uses some of them wrong. MAKES ME CRAZY. For example, "Erstwhile" means former, not... assiduous or ardent or whatever she tried to make it mean.
So 4 for characters, 4 for plot, and 2 because I was irritated. Maybe 3.5? The 4s outweigh the 2... Oh heck.
January 7, 2014
I've never read anything by this author, but happened upon the book by chance at B&N.com.
The plot line seemed like something I would enjoy so I gave it a shot.
I was really impressed by just how much I fell in love with this tale. The characters were were very well constructed and written. There was plenty of angst, witty dialogue, drama, romance and wondering when the hell these two were going to get their HEA. I found myself unable to put the book down.
I will say that I hope this author intends to continue the series and write tales for both the heroine's brother and the hero's best friend. I found myself loving both of their characters, as well.
The plot line seemed like something I would enjoy so I gave it a shot.
I was really impressed by just how much I fell in love with this tale. The characters were were very well constructed and written. There was plenty of angst, witty dialogue, drama, romance and wondering when the hell these two were going to get their HEA. I found myself unable to put the book down.
I will say that I hope this author intends to continue the series and write tales for both the heroine's brother and the hero's best friend. I found myself loving both of their characters, as well.
May 8, 2024
England 1817. Gave this 4 stars.
Urbane, war hero Lord Drake had been promised
to Lady Emmaline since they were kids. But he's
hiding war flashbacks he experiences w/o warning.
He thought he was mad and could not be trusted
around a woman. He returned from war 3 years
ago, and Em was tired of waiting, for what? They
met by chance when she defended an old woman
selling veggies being harassed by dandies.
This had wit, and seriousness and a good love story.
Em visited war veterans every week for 3 years and
thought Drake seeing some of his men might help.
The dialogue was top-drawer.
Urbane, war hero Lord Drake had been promised
to Lady Emmaline since they were kids. But he's
hiding war flashbacks he experiences w/o warning.
He thought he was mad and could not be trusted
around a woman. He returned from war 3 years
ago, and Em was tired of waiting, for what? They
met by chance when she defended an old woman
selling veggies being harassed by dandies.
This had wit, and seriousness and a good love story.
Em visited war veterans every week for 3 years and
thought Drake seeing some of his men might help.
The dialogue was top-drawer.
Want to read
October 30, 2015Free 10-30-15 (Regency Romance)
http://www.amazon.com/Enslaved-Alpha-...
http://www.amazon.com/Enslaved-Alpha-...
July 28, 2024
Review from 2015
C- for narration / C+ for content.
The first book in Christi Caldwell’s Scandalous Seasons series, Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride has an intriguing premise and an engaging heroine, but while I did enjoy the story, there are a number of faults in the execution which made it impossible for me to rate it more highly. The same is true of the narration by Tim Campbell who is, apart from one rather large flaw, a very accomplished narrator and vocal actor.
Lady Emmaline Fitzhugh and the Marquess of Drake were betrothed almost in the cradle – she was five and he was thirteen. Resentful at having his future disposed of in such a manner, Drake ran off to join the army as soon as he was able, returning to England after the Peninsular Wars a very different man to the boy who left. Emmaline has always looked up to Drake, and has waited patiently for him to claim her as his bride – but he never does. In the three years since his return from war, he has avoided her like the plague and spent his time in the manner of young men, gambling, drinking and wenching, his cavorting with the bored widows of the ton a regular feature of the scandal sheets.
Now, here’s one of those faults I mentioned, because I really couldn’t understand why Emmaline’s brother, the Duke of Mallen, could sit back for so long and watch the sister he clearly loves be regularly humiliated. Both he and his mother make it clear that they are aware of how difficult a situation Emmaline is in and how unhappy it makes her, yet neither takes a single step to either hasten the wedding or end the betrothal.
To be fair, Emmaline has not spoken up either, until finally, hearing Drake’s name coupled with that of a stunning opera singer, she decides she’s had enough and that it’s time to bring him up to scratch or end her limbo-like existence by calling the whole thing off. With the help of one of Drake’s closest friends, Emmeline starts showing up at every event he attends, and even though he tries hard to avoid her, it’s impossible. In spite of himself Drake begins to wonder about the nature of the woman he’s been betrothed to for the past fifteen years.
Throughout the course of several encounters, Drake finds that he likes Emmaline, and enjoys her company. She is not at all the sort of insipid young miss he had expected; instead, she’s witty, lively, extremely kind and wise beyond her years, and he starts to believe that perhaps, with her at his side, he will be able to fight the darkness that lurks inside him.
Emmaline is an engaging heroine, full of kindness and optimism, but Drake is a difficult character to warm to, partly because he treats her so badly and partly because he’s not particularly well drawn. It’s obvious to the listener that he is suffering from PTSD, and his frequent nightmares and night terrors make him believe he’s on the verge of insanity. But most of the time, he functions perfectly well, and I don’t think his traumatic experiences can completely exonerate him from having behaved like a complete git towards Emmeline and having subjected her to the humiliation of everyone knowing he was shagging anything in a skirt while engaged to her.
I mentioned that I found several problems in the execution of the story, and these range from the numerous grammatical and syntactical errors to there being elements of it that require too large a suspension of disbelief.
One of the latter is the first love scene in which Drake and Emmeline end up rolling around in a flower bed with her bodice open and his hand up her skirts – which takes place in Hyde Park of all places! I had to rewind at that point just to make sure I’d heard aright, but alas, I hadn’t been assailed by sudden deafness and that was, in fact the case. It’s a ridiculous idea and took me right out of the story.
I also couldn’t help asking myself how it was that the only son of a duke would have been allowed to enlist in the army. A small issue, perhaps, but it bugged me, especially as, later in the story, Emmaline’s brother mentions that he was unable to enlist because he also was the heir to a dukedom.
As for grammar and syntax, I made a number of notes and it would take too long to include them all, but as an example, Ms Caldwell speaks of a character having an affinity TO something instead of an affinity FOR something and there’s mention of a female setting her cap ON a man instead of setting her cap AT him. The buttons down the back of Emmaline’s dress are, apparently, “fastidious” and the word “erstwhile” is used incorrectly (it means “former” not enthusiastic). I know one doesn’t have to have passed a test to become a published author, but I’d have thought a good grasp of the English language should be a prerequisite.
There is also quite a lot of repetition within the story after it gets going. Drake is annoyed at Emmaline’s pursuit – but he likes it. Then he doesn’t. Then he does. He doesn’t want to marry her in case he hurts her – then he wants to marry her regardless – then he doesn’t – then he does… you get the idea. I was also not convinced that Emmeline was anything other than infatuated with Drake for most of the book. It wasn’t just that he’d done nothing to deserve her affection, it was that she didn’t really KNOW him – and I never heard them really going through that stage of a relationship. The same goes for Drake – he jumps from wanting nothing to do with Emmaline to wanting to marry her and being in love with her, yet I never heard a transition; one minute he doesn’t want her, the next he’s in love.
I listened to Tim Campbell last year in Julie Johnstone’s What a Rogue Wants, and in that review said that on an artistic level his performance was very good indeed. I’m saying the same here. All the characters are clearly differentiated and suitably voiced according to age and social station; and Mr Campbell performs the female characters very well indeed. I liked his acting choices, the clarity of his diction, and the sound of his voice; his pacing and emotional range are excellent and as a piece of vocal acting, his performance is terrific. My biggest issue with it is exactly the same as before, which is that his accent and pronunciation, while generally good, let him down about 25% of the time, and it’s a real shame, because the mispronunciations happen constantly throughout the book and are very distracting. I made the decision here – as I did in the Johnstone book – to continue listening despite those problems because Mr Campbell’s performance is otherwise very fine, but it’s not something I can ignore when writing a review. The issues are exactly the same as before – the mispronunciation of certain phonetic groups mostly based around the letter A and the letter U. I made a number of notes while listening and they would be too many to list here, but basically words like “pulse” and “lash” are constantly said wrongly; the “U” sound in those words should be pronounced “UH” (as in under) and not as “OO”, so we get “scoolpted” instead of “sculpted” or “dool” instead of “dull”. The “A” in “dashed” should sound the same way it does in the word “cat”, but Mr Campbell says it in the way it’s pronounced in the word “cart” – so that “dash” sounds like “dah-sh” and grand” sounds like “grah-nd”. Also, Marquess is pronounced “MARkwiss” and not “mark-ESS”, and I take issue with his pronouncing Emmaline as Emma-line and not Emma-leen, the French manner of saying it surely the more likely one for a British historical set in this period.
It’s incredibly frustrating, because these things ruin a narration that would otherwise have gained at least a B from me.
I’m sure this makes it sound as though Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride is a complete wash-out, but that isn’t the case. In spite of the problems I had with the storytelling and narration, I did find it to be an engaging listen – just not one I feel I can recommend without reservation. If you’re less picky on the subject of English accents than I am, then Mr Campbell’s performance has much to recommend it, and I liked the initial premise. I just wish there had been less repetitive padding and more time given to the development of the romance.
C- for narration / C+ for content.
The first book in Christi Caldwell’s Scandalous Seasons series, Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride has an intriguing premise and an engaging heroine, but while I did enjoy the story, there are a number of faults in the execution which made it impossible for me to rate it more highly. The same is true of the narration by Tim Campbell who is, apart from one rather large flaw, a very accomplished narrator and vocal actor.
Lady Emmaline Fitzhugh and the Marquess of Drake were betrothed almost in the cradle – she was five and he was thirteen. Resentful at having his future disposed of in such a manner, Drake ran off to join the army as soon as he was able, returning to England after the Peninsular Wars a very different man to the boy who left. Emmaline has always looked up to Drake, and has waited patiently for him to claim her as his bride – but he never does. In the three years since his return from war, he has avoided her like the plague and spent his time in the manner of young men, gambling, drinking and wenching, his cavorting with the bored widows of the ton a regular feature of the scandal sheets.
Now, here’s one of those faults I mentioned, because I really couldn’t understand why Emmaline’s brother, the Duke of Mallen, could sit back for so long and watch the sister he clearly loves be regularly humiliated. Both he and his mother make it clear that they are aware of how difficult a situation Emmaline is in and how unhappy it makes her, yet neither takes a single step to either hasten the wedding or end the betrothal.
To be fair, Emmaline has not spoken up either, until finally, hearing Drake’s name coupled with that of a stunning opera singer, she decides she’s had enough and that it’s time to bring him up to scratch or end her limbo-like existence by calling the whole thing off. With the help of one of Drake’s closest friends, Emmeline starts showing up at every event he attends, and even though he tries hard to avoid her, it’s impossible. In spite of himself Drake begins to wonder about the nature of the woman he’s been betrothed to for the past fifteen years.
Throughout the course of several encounters, Drake finds that he likes Emmaline, and enjoys her company. She is not at all the sort of insipid young miss he had expected; instead, she’s witty, lively, extremely kind and wise beyond her years, and he starts to believe that perhaps, with her at his side, he will be able to fight the darkness that lurks inside him.
Emmaline is an engaging heroine, full of kindness and optimism, but Drake is a difficult character to warm to, partly because he treats her so badly and partly because he’s not particularly well drawn. It’s obvious to the listener that he is suffering from PTSD, and his frequent nightmares and night terrors make him believe he’s on the verge of insanity. But most of the time, he functions perfectly well, and I don’t think his traumatic experiences can completely exonerate him from having behaved like a complete git towards Emmeline and having subjected her to the humiliation of everyone knowing he was shagging anything in a skirt while engaged to her.
I mentioned that I found several problems in the execution of the story, and these range from the numerous grammatical and syntactical errors to there being elements of it that require too large a suspension of disbelief.
One of the latter is the first love scene in which Drake and Emmeline end up rolling around in a flower bed with her bodice open and his hand up her skirts – which takes place in Hyde Park of all places! I had to rewind at that point just to make sure I’d heard aright, but alas, I hadn’t been assailed by sudden deafness and that was, in fact the case. It’s a ridiculous idea and took me right out of the story.
I also couldn’t help asking myself how it was that the only son of a duke would have been allowed to enlist in the army. A small issue, perhaps, but it bugged me, especially as, later in the story, Emmaline’s brother mentions that he was unable to enlist because he also was the heir to a dukedom.
As for grammar and syntax, I made a number of notes and it would take too long to include them all, but as an example, Ms Caldwell speaks of a character having an affinity TO something instead of an affinity FOR something and there’s mention of a female setting her cap ON a man instead of setting her cap AT him. The buttons down the back of Emmaline’s dress are, apparently, “fastidious” and the word “erstwhile” is used incorrectly (it means “former” not enthusiastic). I know one doesn’t have to have passed a test to become a published author, but I’d have thought a good grasp of the English language should be a prerequisite.
There is also quite a lot of repetition within the story after it gets going. Drake is annoyed at Emmaline’s pursuit – but he likes it. Then he doesn’t. Then he does. He doesn’t want to marry her in case he hurts her – then he wants to marry her regardless – then he doesn’t – then he does… you get the idea. I was also not convinced that Emmeline was anything other than infatuated with Drake for most of the book. It wasn’t just that he’d done nothing to deserve her affection, it was that she didn’t really KNOW him – and I never heard them really going through that stage of a relationship. The same goes for Drake – he jumps from wanting nothing to do with Emmaline to wanting to marry her and being in love with her, yet I never heard a transition; one minute he doesn’t want her, the next he’s in love.
I listened to Tim Campbell last year in Julie Johnstone’s What a Rogue Wants, and in that review said that on an artistic level his performance was very good indeed. I’m saying the same here. All the characters are clearly differentiated and suitably voiced according to age and social station; and Mr Campbell performs the female characters very well indeed. I liked his acting choices, the clarity of his diction, and the sound of his voice; his pacing and emotional range are excellent and as a piece of vocal acting, his performance is terrific. My biggest issue with it is exactly the same as before, which is that his accent and pronunciation, while generally good, let him down about 25% of the time, and it’s a real shame, because the mispronunciations happen constantly throughout the book and are very distracting. I made the decision here – as I did in the Johnstone book – to continue listening despite those problems because Mr Campbell’s performance is otherwise very fine, but it’s not something I can ignore when writing a review. The issues are exactly the same as before – the mispronunciation of certain phonetic groups mostly based around the letter A and the letter U. I made a number of notes while listening and they would be too many to list here, but basically words like “pulse” and “lash” are constantly said wrongly; the “U” sound in those words should be pronounced “UH” (as in under) and not as “OO”, so we get “scoolpted” instead of “sculpted” or “dool” instead of “dull”. The “A” in “dashed” should sound the same way it does in the word “cat”, but Mr Campbell says it in the way it’s pronounced in the word “cart” – so that “dash” sounds like “dah-sh” and grand” sounds like “grah-nd”. Also, Marquess is pronounced “MARkwiss” and not “mark-ESS”, and I take issue with his pronouncing Emmaline as Emma-line and not Emma-leen, the French manner of saying it surely the more likely one for a British historical set in this period.
It’s incredibly frustrating, because these things ruin a narration that would otherwise have gained at least a B from me.
I’m sure this makes it sound as though Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride is a complete wash-out, but that isn’t the case. In spite of the problems I had with the storytelling and narration, I did find it to be an engaging listen – just not one I feel I can recommend without reservation. If you’re less picky on the subject of English accents than I am, then Mr Campbell’s performance has much to recommend it, and I liked the initial premise. I just wish there had been less repetitive padding and more time given to the development of the romance.
May 28, 2016
Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride by Christi Caldwell is the first book in the Scandalous Seasons series.
This is the story of Lord Drake and Lady Emmaline Fitzhugh. They were betrothed by their parents when they were both young children with Emmaline being younger than him at just 5 years old. As they grew up Drake grew very resentful of his forced betrothal and in his desperation to prove his independence he joined the army and went to fight in the Napoleonic war. He came back a very changed man. The things he had to do, the things he witnessed have scarred him both physically and mentally for life. Loud sounds find him cowering, making him believe he is still on the battlefield. He also has the most horrific nightmares. He truly believes he is going mad. It's because of that, that he decides he could never be a good husband, to Emmaline, or any woman. He sets his sights no higher than bedding many women, gambling, and drinking, with the hope that keeping busy like that will stop his nightmares of war.
In the time that Drake was away and consequently returned to his new way of life, Emmaline decides enough is enough. She has been made to be a wallflower over the years because everybody knows she is betrothed and therefore can't ask her to dance or to court her. While she believed that Drake would come back from the war and start to court her properly, leading to a proper proposal, she happily waited for him. When she realises that he seems to have no intention of doing that any time soon she decides enough is enough. So when his friend Sinclair, comes to her with a list of events that Drake will be attending, she agrees to his plan to put herself everywhere that Drake is in order to win at least his attentions and hopefully his heart.
Will Emmaline be able to see past the facade that Drake is hiding behind? Dare he open his heart to her. He can't marry her, not and keep her safe from the violent man he becomes during his episodes and at night when he has his nightmares. While he doesn't know Emmaline well, it's easy to stick to his guns, but the more he sees her, the more he finds himself falling for her. He still keeps pushing her away, what happens if he pushes her too far? A woman has her pride too.
This was a really lovely story with many light-hearted moments throughout. There are some very emotional moments too, especially involving Drake and the pain he suffers because of his time at war. There is a particular story involving a dog that befriended him during his time fighting, and I have to admit it had me reaching for the tissues. Don't worry, the happy moments in the book more than make up for the sadder ones, and this story will leave you smiling.
I read this book as part of a complimentary copy of The Hero Least Likely anthology, in exchange for my honest review.
This is the story of Lord Drake and Lady Emmaline Fitzhugh. They were betrothed by their parents when they were both young children with Emmaline being younger than him at just 5 years old. As they grew up Drake grew very resentful of his forced betrothal and in his desperation to prove his independence he joined the army and went to fight in the Napoleonic war. He came back a very changed man. The things he had to do, the things he witnessed have scarred him both physically and mentally for life. Loud sounds find him cowering, making him believe he is still on the battlefield. He also has the most horrific nightmares. He truly believes he is going mad. It's because of that, that he decides he could never be a good husband, to Emmaline, or any woman. He sets his sights no higher than bedding many women, gambling, and drinking, with the hope that keeping busy like that will stop his nightmares of war.
In the time that Drake was away and consequently returned to his new way of life, Emmaline decides enough is enough. She has been made to be a wallflower over the years because everybody knows she is betrothed and therefore can't ask her to dance or to court her. While she believed that Drake would come back from the war and start to court her properly, leading to a proper proposal, she happily waited for him. When she realises that he seems to have no intention of doing that any time soon she decides enough is enough. So when his friend Sinclair, comes to her with a list of events that Drake will be attending, she agrees to his plan to put herself everywhere that Drake is in order to win at least his attentions and hopefully his heart.
Will Emmaline be able to see past the facade that Drake is hiding behind? Dare he open his heart to her. He can't marry her, not and keep her safe from the violent man he becomes during his episodes and at night when he has his nightmares. While he doesn't know Emmaline well, it's easy to stick to his guns, but the more he sees her, the more he finds himself falling for her. He still keeps pushing her away, what happens if he pushes her too far? A woman has her pride too.
This was a really lovely story with many light-hearted moments throughout. There are some very emotional moments too, especially involving Drake and the pain he suffers because of his time at war. There is a particular story involving a dog that befriended him during his time fighting, and I have to admit it had me reaching for the tissues. Don't worry, the happy moments in the book more than make up for the sadder ones, and this story will leave you smiling.
I read this book as part of a complimentary copy of The Hero Least Likely anthology, in exchange for my honest review.
February 26, 2015
This was a book that caught my attention for the title. It is my first contact with the author and I confess that I enjoyed.
The story seems long because the plot doesn't have a depth of kind bring some great mystery, as a murder or a robbery to be revealed. The plot focuses on the couple and their struggle in winning a question imposed by their parents, and the participants, Emmaline and Drake, had different views on how to proceed with the original plan.
Emmaline is rich, daughter and now Duke's sister, well educated, but has no beauty in fashion among the debutantes of her time. But she had a brain and a great stubbornness and this helped devise the plan to win her prince charming who appeared to her when she was 5 years old.
Drake yes had beauty, a duke of title by knocking on his door, wealth, respect as a war hero, but he was far from perfect. He was a womanizer who deliberately put his fiancee a mockery position in society when everyone knew he walked around taking lovers as she was placed at wallflower position.
While this leave us, readers, angry, this was the behavior of the time; sexist.
And like any fairy tale, Emmaline became to Drake the best balm for his internal scars. She didn't heal him, far from it. Internal war scars that he would take until his death, but they would have a life to realize that they were the right choice for each other.
Beautiful story. 5 STARS !!
The story seems long because the plot doesn't have a depth of kind bring some great mystery, as a murder or a robbery to be revealed. The plot focuses on the couple and their struggle in winning a question imposed by their parents, and the participants, Emmaline and Drake, had different views on how to proceed with the original plan.
Emmaline is rich, daughter and now Duke's sister, well educated, but has no beauty in fashion among the debutantes of her time. But she had a brain and a great stubbornness and this helped devise the plan to win her prince charming who appeared to her when she was 5 years old.
Drake yes had beauty, a duke of title by knocking on his door, wealth, respect as a war hero, but he was far from perfect. He was a womanizer who deliberately put his fiancee a mockery position in society when everyone knew he walked around taking lovers as she was placed at wallflower position.
While this leave us, readers, angry, this was the behavior of the time; sexist.
And like any fairy tale, Emmaline became to Drake the best balm for his internal scars. She didn't heal him, far from it. Internal war scars that he would take until his death, but they would have a life to realize that they were the right choice for each other.
Beautiful story. 5 STARS !!
October 23, 2015
3 stars
The plot of this book really intrigued me so I began right away. Well, what can I say? Drake was a man who avoided marriage like the plague...he even joined the army to get away from Emmaline who was the ultimate do gooder, who could do no wrong. They were endearing but at times I was rolling my eyes with how quick they fixed their many, many problems. I also was mind-boggled when Drake appeared whenever she needed saving...like where did he come from!!?!?!?!?
I would have enjoyed this book a lot more if the author edited a bit more. A lot of the words were unnecessarily repeated in such close proximity. This book also reminded me of Love in the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas with the whole letter thing ( except Emmaline never sent them) but also with the Army thing and the guy coming back scarred beyond repair.
I might continue on in the series because I would like to know what happens to her friend Sophie and her brother!
The plot of this book really intrigued me so I began right away. Well, what can I say? Drake was a man who avoided marriage like the plague...he even joined the army to get away from Emmaline who was the ultimate do gooder, who could do no wrong. They were endearing but at times I was rolling my eyes with how quick they fixed their many, many problems. I also was mind-boggled when Drake appeared whenever she needed saving...like where did he come from!!?!?!?!?
I would have enjoyed this book a lot more if the author edited a bit more. A lot of the words were unnecessarily repeated in such close proximity. This book also reminded me of Love in the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas with the whole letter thing ( except Emmaline never sent them) but also with the Army thing and the guy coming back scarred beyond repair.
I might continue on in the series because I would like to know what happens to her friend Sophie and her brother!
November 20, 2025
Currently trying to clear out my unread books on my Kindle - this one was marked as unread but I had already read 2 chapters in 2017 and didn't like it. As I couldn't remember anything about the book, I gave it another whirl. It was.. okay. Lots of noble idiot-ing from the ML. Don't think I will follow up with the rest of the series.
August 31, 2015
This is the first book I have read by Ms. Caldwell, and I truly loved it and can't wait to read more of her books. Great character, great pacing, and a great plot. I highly recommend this book to all historical romance readers. Happy reading!
October 15, 2018
2.5 stars - Historical Romance
This was an exasperating read, and I'm just glad it's over.
This was an exasperating read, and I'm just glad it's over.
July 28, 2020
What was this?
How is this guy a hero in a romance novel?
This book just made me angry and irritated.
How is this guy a hero in a romance novel?
This book just made me angry and irritated.
September 16, 2025
4/5
An enjoyable and engaging read, sprinkled with humor and interesting characters. Emmaline and Drake… a delightful couple, two opposites that attract
An enjoyable and engaging read, sprinkled with humor and interesting characters. Emmaline and Drake… a delightful couple, two opposites that attract
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