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Everard Legacy #1
The Rogue's Reform / House of Secrets
Jerome Everard expected to inherit his wayward uncle's estate. Instead, all has gone to a secret daughter. Only by disproving his young cousin's claim can Jerome regain his rightful property. But instead, he finds himself drawn to her lovely governess, Adele Walcott - a woman who holds the key to all of his uncle's secrets.
Adele's fortune is gone, along with her marriage prospects. Now she is devoted to securing her charge's happiness. When she meets Jerome, she dares to dream of love again. But after learning his true motives, that love comes to a test. Can she forgive his past and reform his heart…to make it hers forever?
Adele's fortune is gone, along with her marriage prospects. Now she is devoted to securing her charge's happiness. When she meets Jerome, she dares to dream of love again. But after learning his true motives, that love comes to a test. Can she forgive his past and reform his heart…to make it hers forever?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2012
17 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Regina Scott
136 books1,009 followersRegina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing. Since her first Regency romance was published in 1998, her stories have traveled the globe, with translations in many languages including Dutch, German, Italian, and Portuguese. She is now the author of more than 50 works of warm, witty historical romance.
She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .
She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 16, 2019
This is the first Regina Scott story I’ve read. It’s also the first Love Inspired novel I’ve read in a very long time! It was wonderful! I’ve been reading Regency romance lately and was searching my shelves when it dawned on me that I have a TON of Love Inspired Regency novels that I haven’t read!! I’m so glad I came across this gem of an author! I can’t wait to read the rest of the series as well as other series by her! This story is set in Spring 1805, England. Three young Rogues who think they are their uncle’s heirs to the Barony descend upon their young, newly discovered cousin eager to find proof that SHE is a fraud and couldn’t possibly be the rival heir to the estate. As they become acquainted with their adorable and mischievous 16 year old cousin and her enchanting governess, what ensues is mystery, intrigue, danger, secrets, and surprisingly also romance! I enjoyed this story very much!
February 13, 2013
So, I ended up liking this one a lot more than I thought I would. It was a fun regency with a mystery woven in. I had accidently started the second book first, but soon realized that this is one series you would want to read in order. I think each book focuses on a different couple, but there is an overlapping story and mystery throughout the series. I liked our main characters Jerome and Adele, I thought they had a nice relationship. I think I liked that even though Adele had some hard times in her past, she stayed true to herself. I would have liked a little more information about her past relationship, but maybe that will come out in other books. I guess I wanted a confrontation of some kind with the man who had wronged her. I thought that she had a good relationship with Jerome, although
I though the Christian elements were pretty mild, didn’t seem overly preachy. But, all the praying and stuff was in italics and I usually skipped over the preachy stuff anyway. I thought it was a fun start to a new series. I look forward to reading the rest of the books.
Content: Clean.
Reading Order:
Book One: The Rogue’s Reform
Book Two: The Captain’s Courtship
Book Three: The Rakes Redemption
Book Four: The Heiress Homecoming
I though the Christian elements were pretty mild, didn’t seem overly preachy. But, all the praying and stuff was in italics and I usually skipped over the preachy stuff anyway. I thought it was a fun start to a new series. I look forward to reading the rest of the books.
Content: Clean.
Reading Order:
Book One: The Rogue’s Reform
Book Two: The Captain’s Courtship
Book Three: The Rakes Redemption
Book Four: The Heiress Homecoming
December 23, 2014
I don't think I will ever get tired of Regina Scotts writing!
I loved this novel- there was so much more mystery than I was expecting and it was absolutely gripping! The cast of characters was varied and covered every personality (from an over-imaginative schoolgirl to a slightly "off" mother with a single daughter...surrounded by the three single Everard cousins).
I am so glad there are 3 more books in this series because I did not want the story to end! Minor issues/misunderstandings are resolved quickly, and the major contention in the story is kept upbeat by swashbuckling and poetic cousins; and of course a sweet (and clean) romance between two who "can never be" helps too. ;)
This was the first time in a long while I stayed up til the wee hours of the morning to finish a book.
No regrets. ;)
I loved this novel- there was so much more mystery than I was expecting and it was absolutely gripping! The cast of characters was varied and covered every personality (from an over-imaginative schoolgirl to a slightly "off" mother with a single daughter...surrounded by the three single Everard cousins).
I am so glad there are 3 more books in this series because I did not want the story to end! Minor issues/misunderstandings are resolved quickly, and the major contention in the story is kept upbeat by swashbuckling and poetic cousins; and of course a sweet (and clean) romance between two who "can never be" helps too. ;)
This was the first time in a long while I stayed up til the wee hours of the morning to finish a book.
No regrets. ;)
June 13, 2012
This was a well written book, with many secrets that are difficult to figure out. This had a lot more plot then other regency romances I have read lately and it was very refreshing. There is a Christian theme to the book, but it is in no way preachy. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and will continue to read about them in the next two books. Very clean.
November 13, 2013
I was sent an advance copy of this book in exchange for my review. This review will be unbiased.
Jerome Everard has worked his whole life to ensure that his legacy, his Uncle Arthur's estate, should prosper while Uncle Arthur was content to float through life enjoying himself with London pleasures. Now Uncle Arthur is dead and his solicitor reveals shocking news: Jerome is not the heir after all! Uncle Arthur has a secret daughter and the title and the estate pass to her from her father. Jerome will only inherit a minor estate and only after his cousin has a successful season with three offers of marriage and her governess's approval. Jerome heads off to Cumberland accompanied by his dashing brother Richard and his roguish cousin Vaughn to charm the governess into revealing the truth and expose their so-called cousin as a fraud. Jerome expects to find a scheming jade and her greedy governess, but instead he finds a young lady badly in need of comfort and a remarkable woman who stands as her friend. Adele Walcott, Samantha Everard's governess, is 27 and had her share of difficulties. She has been managing the Everard estate for the last ten years and she is determined to protect her cousin from the rogues who appear unannounced on her doorstep. Yet, as she watches Jerome go about estate business she starts to admire the serious, dedicated young man. The more Jerome gets to know his lively young cousin and her remarkable friend, he begins to feel protective towards the ladies and perhaps even something more for the lovely Adele. Adele once loved and lost and felt the light go out of her life. She has found a new Light to guide her yet she still remains cynical. As Jerome and Adele become close, someone seeks to separate them and will stop at nothing to achieve their aims. Adele must decide who to believe in and trust in her Lord to guide her and show her the way to truth and happiness.
Before I share my opinion, I must begin by saying this book is the most Christian of all three of Regina Scott's Love Inspired books so far. It is not as easy to gloss over the Bible passages and prayers in this novel as it is in the other two. If you don't believe in Adele's God, then you probably won't want to read this book. If you do want to read this book, read on.
As usual Regina Scott excels at creating a wholly original story in a genre in which many authors borrow plots from Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer and each other and toss in cliche after cliche. The characters are well-developed and are kept from becoming stock characters by Regina's excellent characterizations. Jerome is a nice hero but a bit too serious. He's on a mission which could be interpreted as caddish but he has good reasons for it and he grows and changes throughout the story. Adele is the weak link. She's a typical redoubtable spinster, capable of handling everything that comes her way calmly. Yet she's also more well-drawn than many Regency novel heroines. She has doubts and fears yet she isn't afraid to trust her heart. She could use a bit more of a temper to make her a bit more human but I quite like her, aside from her reliance on God to guide her way. I quite like Vaughn and I expect I shall entirely lose my heart to him once he has his own story. I also really liked Samantha who at times seems spoiled and childish but also has backbone and a good sense of humor. I look forward to seeing her grow up. The plot was interesting enough to keep me reading but dragged on a bit in the last third of the novel. My only major criticisms are that the mystery of Samantha's mother is easy to figure out and the romance happens a bit too quickly for me to believe. Finally, my biggest complaint is that since this book is the first in a series, the big mystery is yet to be resolved and I hate waiting!!! Overall, it's a good book but not as good as Regina Scott's older non-Inspirational books, but that's my personal opinion and I would recommend that those who like the Regency genre and don't mind Inspirational Regencies give this one a try.
Jerome Everard has worked his whole life to ensure that his legacy, his Uncle Arthur's estate, should prosper while Uncle Arthur was content to float through life enjoying himself with London pleasures. Now Uncle Arthur is dead and his solicitor reveals shocking news: Jerome is not the heir after all! Uncle Arthur has a secret daughter and the title and the estate pass to her from her father. Jerome will only inherit a minor estate and only after his cousin has a successful season with three offers of marriage and her governess's approval. Jerome heads off to Cumberland accompanied by his dashing brother Richard and his roguish cousin Vaughn to charm the governess into revealing the truth and expose their so-called cousin as a fraud. Jerome expects to find a scheming jade and her greedy governess, but instead he finds a young lady badly in need of comfort and a remarkable woman who stands as her friend. Adele Walcott, Samantha Everard's governess, is 27 and had her share of difficulties. She has been managing the Everard estate for the last ten years and she is determined to protect her cousin from the rogues who appear unannounced on her doorstep. Yet, as she watches Jerome go about estate business she starts to admire the serious, dedicated young man. The more Jerome gets to know his lively young cousin and her remarkable friend, he begins to feel protective towards the ladies and perhaps even something more for the lovely Adele. Adele once loved and lost and felt the light go out of her life. She has found a new Light to guide her yet she still remains cynical. As Jerome and Adele become close, someone seeks to separate them and will stop at nothing to achieve their aims. Adele must decide who to believe in and trust in her Lord to guide her and show her the way to truth and happiness.
Before I share my opinion, I must begin by saying this book is the most Christian of all three of Regina Scott's Love Inspired books so far. It is not as easy to gloss over the Bible passages and prayers in this novel as it is in the other two. If you don't believe in Adele's God, then you probably won't want to read this book. If you do want to read this book, read on.
As usual Regina Scott excels at creating a wholly original story in a genre in which many authors borrow plots from Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer and each other and toss in cliche after cliche. The characters are well-developed and are kept from becoming stock characters by Regina's excellent characterizations. Jerome is a nice hero but a bit too serious. He's on a mission which could be interpreted as caddish but he has good reasons for it and he grows and changes throughout the story. Adele is the weak link. She's a typical redoubtable spinster, capable of handling everything that comes her way calmly. Yet she's also more well-drawn than many Regency novel heroines. She has doubts and fears yet she isn't afraid to trust her heart. She could use a bit more of a temper to make her a bit more human but I quite like her, aside from her reliance on God to guide her way. I quite like Vaughn and I expect I shall entirely lose my heart to him once he has his own story. I also really liked Samantha who at times seems spoiled and childish but also has backbone and a good sense of humor. I look forward to seeing her grow up. The plot was interesting enough to keep me reading but dragged on a bit in the last third of the novel. My only major criticisms are that the mystery of Samantha's mother is easy to figure out and the romance happens a bit too quickly for me to believe. Finally, my biggest complaint is that since this book is the first in a series, the big mystery is yet to be resolved and I hate waiting!!! Overall, it's a good book but not as good as Regina Scott's older non-Inspirational books, but that's my personal opinion and I would recommend that those who like the Regency genre and don't mind Inspirational Regencies give this one a try.
July 12, 2012
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The Rogue's Reform, book one in Regina Scott's The Everard Legacy, was such an interesting, enjoyable, and (at times) humorous read.
As I read The Rogue's Reform I found myself really liking the characters. My favorites were: Jerome, Adele, Vaughn, and Adele's mother.
I didn't really expect there to be a little mystery/suspense in The Rogue's Reform, but there was! There was even attempted murder, which (in my opinion) added a little "who-done-it" to the story, making it even more of a great read!
A few things are left unanswered at the end of The Rogue's Reform making me want to read the next book in Regina's series, The Captain's Courtship, which released this month. Plus, I've grown to really like the characters and want to see what happens next in their lives.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Rogue's Reform and recommend it if you like historical reads with romance. It's great.
*I received this book from the author for my honest review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
The Rogue's Reform, book one in Regina Scott's The Everard Legacy, was such an interesting, enjoyable, and (at times) humorous read.
As I read The Rogue's Reform I found myself really liking the characters. My favorites were: Jerome, Adele, Vaughn, and Adele's mother.
I didn't really expect there to be a little mystery/suspense in The Rogue's Reform, but there was! There was even attempted murder, which (in my opinion) added a little "who-done-it" to the story, making it even more of a great read!
A few things are left unanswered at the end of The Rogue's Reform making me want to read the next book in Regina's series, The Captain's Courtship, which released this month. Plus, I've grown to really like the characters and want to see what happens next in their lives.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Rogue's Reform and recommend it if you like historical reads with romance. It's great.
*I received this book from the author for my honest review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
June 27, 2019
This was a different sort of book for me, while I have read many historical romances and several modern books in the Love Inspired series, this is the first one I have read in the Regency period with religious overtones. It works! The author did not use religion to disrupt the plot, it felt very natural. I will be on the lookout for other books in this series.
October 24, 2016
Entertaining. Some mystery and a cliffhanger and some unlikely scenarios. I'll continue reading the series to see what happens.
March 26, 2018
The title makes me laugh, because it makes you think it's some sleazy romance novel when in reality it's a fluffy christian regency romance.
November 5, 2018
Meh. I started out liking it but it was sort of a chore to make it to the end of this book. Scott’s style in this book is similar to Lawana Blackwell’s but I just couldn’t connect with the characters.
November 11, 2020
It's a great read. I would recommend it to anyone
May 25, 2021
3.5 stars
April 7, 2022
Clean regency romance, but a bit cheesy
This novel kept my interest and was clean and romantic. The last half of the book was a little cheesy and less interesting.
This novel kept my interest and was clean and romantic. The last half of the book was a little cheesy and less interesting.
April 6, 2013
“The title and entailed lands belong to the former Lord Everard’s daughter.”
Jerome Everard, his brother Richard & cousin Vaughn are startled. Jerome had been told by his uncle that he was the heir. Where did this mystery daughter come from? Why did their uncle keep her a secret? A visit to Dallsten Manor is an immediate must.
Also, there is the mystery surrounding their uncle’s death. They have been told he was killed during a duel, but none of them can find out anything about it, their uncle’s valet has not been seen the duel, & most disturbing is the fact that none of them were asked to be Lord Everard’s second during the duel.
Then there is the lovely governess Adele Walcott, trusted friend of the late Lord and Lady Everard. What secrets does she hold? As Jerome gets to know Adele to try & find out what she knows, he finds himself losing his heart in the process, & suddenly, his inheritance doesn’t seem to matter anymore!
I loved this action, mystery & faith filled Regency romance. I got caught up in the plot as the mysteries deepen, & also became very attached to the Everards. Plus there is a short & enjoyable suspense bonus story: House of Secrets by Marta Perry.
You will also want to collect the following 3 stories which make up this series of The Everard Legacy as the terms of the will are carried out, & the intrigue continues regarding the mysteries surrounding Lord Everard’s death.
#2
#3
#4
Jerome Everard, his brother Richard & cousin Vaughn are startled. Jerome had been told by his uncle that he was the heir. Where did this mystery daughter come from? Why did their uncle keep her a secret? A visit to Dallsten Manor is an immediate must.
Also, there is the mystery surrounding their uncle’s death. They have been told he was killed during a duel, but none of them can find out anything about it, their uncle’s valet has not been seen the duel, & most disturbing is the fact that none of them were asked to be Lord Everard’s second during the duel.
Then there is the lovely governess Adele Walcott, trusted friend of the late Lord and Lady Everard. What secrets does she hold? As Jerome gets to know Adele to try & find out what she knows, he finds himself losing his heart in the process, & suddenly, his inheritance doesn’t seem to matter anymore!
I loved this action, mystery & faith filled Regency romance. I got caught up in the plot as the mysteries deepen, & also became very attached to the Everards. Plus there is a short & enjoyable suspense bonus story: House of Secrets by Marta Perry.
You will also want to collect the following 3 stories which make up this series of The Everard Legacy as the terms of the will are carried out, & the intrigue continues regarding the mysteries surrounding Lord Everard’s death.
#2
#3
#4
January 2, 2013
Book 1 in The Everard Legacy:
Jerome Everard is expecting to inherit his Uncle's estate but gets a shock when the solicitor reveals that Jerome's Uncle has a secret daughter. So Jerome and his cousins Richard & Vaughn go to disprove the girl's claim to the legacy. Besides disproving the girl's claim Jerome also has to take on the girl's governess who will be overseeing that all the conditions of the will are met. But when Jerome and Adele meet attraction is sparked. Soon they are working together to uncover Jerome's Uncle's secrets. Can they work together or will more secrets tear them apart??
I have always loved the Regency period and really enjoyed this book. I fell in love with all the cousins and can't wait to read each of their stories. If you are looking for a clean Regency I recommend this one!
Jerome Everard is expecting to inherit his Uncle's estate but gets a shock when the solicitor reveals that Jerome's Uncle has a secret daughter. So Jerome and his cousins Richard & Vaughn go to disprove the girl's claim to the legacy. Besides disproving the girl's claim Jerome also has to take on the girl's governess who will be overseeing that all the conditions of the will are met. But when Jerome and Adele meet attraction is sparked. Soon they are working together to uncover Jerome's Uncle's secrets. Can they work together or will more secrets tear them apart??
I have always loved the Regency period and really enjoyed this book. I fell in love with all the cousins and can't wait to read each of their stories. If you are looking for a clean Regency I recommend this one!
July 8, 2012
I loved it!
From the beginning, I was thinking so hard: how are they going to solve their issues?! Why can't she see she's freakin amazing?! SO much suspense and intrigue! And secrets that had me nervous for evveryone! And the characters... I just fell in love with them! They were all so realistic and incredibly complex and charming! Even the minor characters!
The romance was very sincere and inspirational!
The history was alive with details about the estate, everything!
I just loved the book!
Another amazing book by Regina Scott!!
From the beginning, I was thinking so hard: how are they going to solve their issues?! Why can't she see she's freakin amazing?! SO much suspense and intrigue! And secrets that had me nervous for evveryone! And the characters... I just fell in love with them! They were all so realistic and incredibly complex and charming! Even the minor characters!
The romance was very sincere and inspirational!
The history was alive with details about the estate, everything!
I just loved the book!
Another amazing book by Regina Scott!!
June 5, 2016
I accidently read this book and the second book out of order, but it didn't make this book any less wonderful when I read it! It is still just as full of intrigue, excitement, suspense, drama, love, and beautiful truths from God's word!! I am absolutely hooked on this series and will dearly miss Adele, Samantha, and the dashing Everard men when I have finished this series! Regina Scott is gifted and has written fantastic xharacters and a fantastic story with The Everard Legacy Series! A full review will be posted on my blog www.seelizzieread.blogspot.com!
July 24, 2014
Well, I've read this series completely out of order and wish I hadn't! This is the first book in the Everard Legacy series. It sets up the story quite nicely and leaves a few loose ends, which makes me anxious to read the next installment. I really loved Adele and Samantha! A great beginning to a wonderful series. [4.5 stars]
April 20, 2012
Pretty good story. I enjoyed it. Can't wait to read the others in the series. I really liked the idea of the brothers/cousin that were completely loyal to each other and worked together tirelessly to correct a wrong done to one.
May 26, 2012
It was pretty good. I liked how hero and heroine were both wiling to hear each other out before causing more drama. Hope there's a sequel because the whole stealing of the box with no closure on that irked me.
February 1, 2012
My inspiration for this novel? God is speaking, are you listening?
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December 27, 2014Miniseries: The Everard Legacy
Category: Inspirational Romance
Category: Inspirational Romance
Want to read
February 7, 2012I won this book as a Goodreads First Read.
May 29, 2012
This is a fun start to the trilogy. I look forward to reading the two other books. I enjoy reading Regina Scott's books.
October 11, 2013
I liked this series.
January 6, 2015
First in the series of four books.
September 25, 2015
I liked it!
May 15, 2013
A really good regency read. Enjoyed it a lot. Clean and fun story.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews