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Misfits of the Ton #4
Oddity of the Ton
An unlikely pairing becomes the perfect match.
Eleanor Howard has never fitted in. To her, Society is an unfathomable world where success is measured by the number of suitors’ names on her dance card. And her card is always empty. Constantly outshone by her younger sister, and continually criticized by her ambitious mother, Eleanor yearns to be loved for herself, not what others expect her to be. Her secret infatuation with the Duke of Whitcombe—who’d never deign to notice, much less court her—would, if revealed, make her the laughingstock of the ton.
Until he strides across a crowded ballroom and offers his hand.
Montague FitzRoy, fifth Duke of Whitcombe, is unwilling to surrender the pleasures of bachelorhood. When his mother, insistent on finding him a duchess of the right pedigree, forces his hand, he decides on impulse to punish her by kneeling before the least desirable woman in the room.
Only Miss Howard believes his proposal to be genuine.
The solution? A false betrothal that keeps Monty’s mother in check, and lifts Miss Howard’s prospects. Monty can weather a few weeks’ ridicule over an engagement to a woman whose eccentricities are gossiped about. And a betrothal—even short-lived—to a duke will ensure that Miss Howard’s dance card is never empty again.
But beneath Eleanor’s awkward exterior lies a passionate, intelligent woman, misunderstood and unappreciated, who challenges Monty’s notions of duty, life, and love—and with whom he’s falling in love himself.
As the end of the Season, and their inevitable parting, approaches, Monty is faced with a choice—surrender to duty, or follow his heart.
Oddity of the Ton is an own voices romance with an autistic heroine.
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
Misfits of the Ton
Book 1 - Tomboy of the Ton
Book 2 - Ruined by the Ton
Book 3 - Thief of the Ton
Book 4 - Oddity of the Ton
Book 5 - Harpy of the Ton
Book 6 - Heartbreaker of the Ton
Book 7 - Doxy for the Ton
Eleanor Howard has never fitted in. To her, Society is an unfathomable world where success is measured by the number of suitors’ names on her dance card. And her card is always empty. Constantly outshone by her younger sister, and continually criticized by her ambitious mother, Eleanor yearns to be loved for herself, not what others expect her to be. Her secret infatuation with the Duke of Whitcombe—who’d never deign to notice, much less court her—would, if revealed, make her the laughingstock of the ton.
Until he strides across a crowded ballroom and offers his hand.
Montague FitzRoy, fifth Duke of Whitcombe, is unwilling to surrender the pleasures of bachelorhood. When his mother, insistent on finding him a duchess of the right pedigree, forces his hand, he decides on impulse to punish her by kneeling before the least desirable woman in the room.
Only Miss Howard believes his proposal to be genuine.
The solution? A false betrothal that keeps Monty’s mother in check, and lifts Miss Howard’s prospects. Monty can weather a few weeks’ ridicule over an engagement to a woman whose eccentricities are gossiped about. And a betrothal—even short-lived—to a duke will ensure that Miss Howard’s dance card is never empty again.
But beneath Eleanor’s awkward exterior lies a passionate, intelligent woman, misunderstood and unappreciated, who challenges Monty’s notions of duty, life, and love—and with whom he’s falling in love himself.
As the end of the Season, and their inevitable parting, approaches, Monty is faced with a choice—surrender to duty, or follow his heart.
Oddity of the Ton is an own voices romance with an autistic heroine.
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
Misfits of the Ton
Book 1 - Tomboy of the Ton
Book 2 - Ruined by the Ton
Book 3 - Thief of the Ton
Book 4 - Oddity of the Ton
Book 5 - Harpy of the Ton
Book 6 - Heartbreaker of the Ton
Book 7 - Doxy for the Ton
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 27, 2024
114 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Emily Royal
52 books192 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling Author Emily Royal is a mathematics geek who grew up in Sussex, England and has always had a passion for romance and bad boy heroes in need of redemption. Emily graduated from Oxford University with a Chemistry degree, but returned to her mathematical roots to work in financial services, while indulging in her dream of becoming a pilot, and enjoying a brief international sporting career.
She now lives near the Highlands, with her Scottish husband, two daughters and menagerie of rescue pets including Twinkle, an attention-seeking boa constrictor. When not working on algebra, dreaming about her heroes, or keeping Twinkle from slithering over her keyboard, Emily enjoys painting, playing the piano and keeping her family well stocked with cake.
She now lives near the Highlands, with her Scottish husband, two daughters and menagerie of rescue pets including Twinkle, an attention-seeking boa constrictor. When not working on algebra, dreaming about her heroes, or keeping Twinkle from slithering over her keyboard, Emily enjoys painting, playing the piano and keeping her family well stocked with cake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
April 21, 2024
An unlikely romance between two polar opposites: Monty, known as a cold-hearted rogue he’s everything shiny and arrogant a duke ought to be, and Eleanor is a social misfit, a merchant’s daughter with an aversion of crowded rooms and noise, unable to decipher society’s language, always compared to her popular younger sister and found lacking by her ambitious mama.
He proposes to her on a whim, to spite his mother. Surprised, she accepts only to learn the next morning it was all a hoax. When a bit of chaos ensues, he quickly learns how miserable her life truly is. Something inside him snaps and he offers another deal: a fake engagement to keep his mother at bay and allow them time so he can teach her how to navigate the ton’s treacherous waters.
As he learns to understand her and her small tics, he discovers a passionate and clever young woman, a gifted artist and a true beauty in her own right. She teaches him not just to look, but to really see, to appreciate all he has and all that he is.
He can’t help but lose his heart to this unique lady…
Eleanor has a form of autism, and I love how the author chose to portray her, and how Monty changes around her and because of her. He’s patient, tender and considerate. He really tries to protect her from the ton’s cruelty and their vicious gossip. I really enjoyed the growth in both characters, and the way their relationship evolved.
Of course he still screws up, and because her life gets turned upside down as well, it takes him six miserable months to find his way back…
I read this book in one straight sitting; it was absolutely impossible for me to put it down! This is such a moving romance - sensitive, thoughtful and so beautifully written! It has all the feels, colourful imagery, a touch of humour, juicy family drama, a dash of steam and so much heart.
It’s all in the detail, and I loved it!
He proposes to her on a whim, to spite his mother. Surprised, she accepts only to learn the next morning it was all a hoax. When a bit of chaos ensues, he quickly learns how miserable her life truly is. Something inside him snaps and he offers another deal: a fake engagement to keep his mother at bay and allow them time so he can teach her how to navigate the ton’s treacherous waters.
As he learns to understand her and her small tics, he discovers a passionate and clever young woman, a gifted artist and a true beauty in her own right. She teaches him not just to look, but to really see, to appreciate all he has and all that he is.
He can’t help but lose his heart to this unique lady…
Eleanor has a form of autism, and I love how the author chose to portray her, and how Monty changes around her and because of her. He’s patient, tender and considerate. He really tries to protect her from the ton’s cruelty and their vicious gossip. I really enjoyed the growth in both characters, and the way their relationship evolved.
Of course he still screws up, and because her life gets turned upside down as well, it takes him six miserable months to find his way back…
I read this book in one straight sitting; it was absolutely impossible for me to put it down! This is such a moving romance - sensitive, thoughtful and so beautifully written! It has all the feels, colourful imagery, a touch of humour, juicy family drama, a dash of steam and so much heart.
It’s all in the detail, and I loved it!
July 15, 2024
A historical romance with an autistic heroine? Yes, please!!
I loved this book, I couldn't put it down. It broke my heart at times, made me want to root for the heroine, and also made me fall for the H. There is so much growth between both of the characters--the h gained so much confidence and self resilience, while the H matured and gained depth thanks to the h. Their relationship helped each other so much. It showed a lot of reality of how people would respond to a person with autism (of which they wouldn't have any name for), for society and family. The whole time I was reading it I kept thinking of how realistic Eleanor's depiction of autism was--then at the back of the book learned that Emily Royal is autistic herself--and basically used her autism for Eleanor (since autism, like pretty much any neurodivergences, can show differently amongst people). All in all, I can't recommend this enough.
May 5, 2024
Fake engagements make me want to scream
There are so many books lately, both contemporary and historical, that are using this trope. Its fake overload but this book ended up being very good. The three stars are simply me being me. He asks the heroine to marry him. She thinks its true love but the next morning, as he is leaving his mistresses house after a night of rutting, his thoughts not mine, he tells her it is a ruse. He picked the lady he knew his Mother would hate so shed leave him alone about marrying. They keep up the ruse but she loves him. Of course. Her sister is a raving shrew who hates her sister. She definitely destroys the heroines life. When its time to break up, he already had taken her virginity, and is seen leaving his mistresses house with his mistress and another doxy on his arm. The engagement is over. There's a whole lot going on and her sister betrays her and poof the dreams are over. She retires to a tiny village and paints to her hearts content. The Vicar falls in love with her and I really liked him but th hero is the Duke. I am thinking the vicar might end up with the evil sister once she is reformed. I don't know why I think that but I just did. Who knows. Good book. Safety wise he is with his mistress the night after he asks the heroine to marry him but I think he is faithful after that. That's one of my triggers but I skimmed over that chapter and the rest of the book was okay.
There are so many books lately, both contemporary and historical, that are using this trope. Its fake overload but this book ended up being very good. The three stars are simply me being me. He asks the heroine to marry him. She thinks its true love but the next morning, as he is leaving his mistresses house after a night of rutting, his thoughts not mine, he tells her it is a ruse. He picked the lady he knew his Mother would hate so shed leave him alone about marrying. They keep up the ruse but she loves him. Of course. Her sister is a raving shrew who hates her sister. She definitely destroys the heroines life. When its time to break up, he already had taken her virginity, and is seen leaving his mistresses house with his mistress and another doxy on his arm. The engagement is over. There's a whole lot going on and her sister betrays her and poof the dreams are over. She retires to a tiny village and paints to her hearts content. The Vicar falls in love with her and I really liked him but th hero is the Duke. I am thinking the vicar might end up with the evil sister once she is reformed. I don't know why I think that but I just did. Who knows. Good book. Safety wise he is with his mistress the night after he asks the heroine to marry him but I think he is faithful after that. That's one of my triggers but I skimmed over that chapter and the rest of the book was okay.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2024
Eleanor Howard has never fitted into society she yearns to be loved for herself, not what others expect her to be. Her secret infatuation with the Duke of Whitcombe, who’d never deign to notice, much less court her would, if revealed, make her the laughingstock of the ton. Until he strides across a crowded ballroom and offers his hand. Montague FitzRoy, fifth Duke of Whitcombe, is unwilling to surrender the pleasures of bachelorhood. When his mother, insistent on finding him a duchess of the right pedigree, forces his hand, he decides on impulse to punish her by kneeling before the least desirable woman in the room. Only Eleanor believes his proposal to be genuine & he learns how her life really is. So they enter into a false betrothal that keeps Monty’s mother in check, and lifts Miss Howard’s prospects. Monty can weather a few weeks’ ridicule over an engagement to a woman whose eccentricities are gossiped about.
I started this book thinking I wouldn’t like Montague but I couldn’t have been more wrong, he was caring, patient & so tender around Eleanor – he stole my heart. I loved their journey to a HEA, which wasn’t easy but it made for a riveting read & I read this lovely book straight through, I cried & I laughed & I loved it. By far my favourite of the series, a very well written book & the author dealt with Eleanor’s autism sensitively
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I started this book thinking I wouldn’t like Montague but I couldn’t have been more wrong, he was caring, patient & so tender around Eleanor – he stole my heart. I loved their journey to a HEA, which wasn’t easy but it made for a riveting read & I read this lovely book straight through, I cried & I laughed & I loved it. By far my favourite of the series, a very well written book & the author dealt with Eleanor’s autism sensitively
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 9, 2024
4 stars after recovering from the MMC being such a cruel ass, the story got better. He deserved every minute of his suffering and more FMC was well written and real. The writer did a good job of developing the relationship between them and in showing the FMC’s strength of character throughout.
June 20, 2024
If only they would "accidentally" say what they're thinking out loud. That would be perfect.
April 18, 2024
This was my first full read by Emily Royal and I enjoyed it very much! I could hardly put it down. Her writing is amazing, it has so much depth! It touches on the superficial world of judging each other based on appearance, and shows the value of the inner person, which has much more depth and value and has the ability to enrich your life, if you take the time and effort to see it and to discover.
Quick summary: Monty (not fond of the name, but what a great character) is a duke and incredibly annoyed at the superficial world of the ton. His mother is pressuring him to do his duty and marry a ‘suitable’ bride, in other words a beautiful girl with an impeccable background but with nothing else. Monty compared them to hothouse orchids:
“Exquisite to look at, but they serve no purpose other than to be admired. When a man takes one on, he’s burdened with a responsibility for life—to feed and water her while she strives to maintain her elegance. But when the bloom inevitably fades and the petals grow tired around the edges, the man must redouble his efforts while turning a blind eye to her fading beauty. And then, once the beauty has gone—do you know what the man’s left with?”
“I cannot imagine.”
“A bowl of dirt,”
So he does everything in his power to postpone marriage. But his mother keeps nagging him to do his duty, so one night he impulsively proposes marriage to the least interesting, dull and quiet girl in the ballroom - Eleanor. He figures that this will get his mother off his back and the girl won’t hold him to it. Eleanor has been secretly in love with Monty, but is considered an oddity by the people around her. She believes all the judgements that are uttered about her, but she has many great qualities.
I loved how Monty saw through the shallowness of polite society, felt exasperated by it and slowly was taught another view on life by Eleanor. She showed Monty the difference between seeing and looking. And Monty showed her that it was okay to be herself; different. It is all about perspective:
“Rather than converse in riddles to conform to Society, you speak—and depict—the absolute truth. Whether that gives offense is no reflection of your character, Miss Howard, but that of others.”
The story is extremely well written. It has enormous depth, great dialogues and many wonderful, deep thoughts. At the same time it flowed so well, at just the right pace. It has great character development and the falling in love felt real and even inevitable.
It touches on the subject of autism but in a beautiful way, without getting heavy.
The secondary characters were the perfect addition to the story. The Marlows, Elanor’s father, Monty’s mother - I loved them! I loved that the characters were great but also flawed. Everybody is flawed but it’s all about the willingness to grow. The contrast between who did not want to grow and who did was well represented. Just look at Juliette, Arabella and Eleanor’s mother vs. Monty, Lavinia and even Monty’s mother (I loved her!!). The story is about friendship, acceptance, forgiveness, being yourself, about being accepted and being accepting and the beauty in differences. It’s about being real and respected for who you are as a person deep down inside your heart and the way you treat others. Even the entire society with its titles is pitted against the working man with a profession. Which of the two truly commanded respect?
It is truly a beautiful story and I can highly recommend it! I have added Emily Royal to my Favorite Writers’ list and will definitely read more of her books!
A few of my favorite quotes:
“Eleanor sees people without looking at them,” the boy said. “I hate being looked at, but I don’t want to be invisible—a-and Eleanor saw me.”
“The deepest love goes hand in hand with a fear of rejection that overcomes all hope. And you therefore take what is on offer, knowing that the pain of rejection if you admit—even to yourself—that you yearn for more would be too much to bear.”
“Are you saying that you cannot compete with a duke?” she asked.
“No,” he said. “I’m saying that I cannot compete with the man you love.”
“I’ve never said—”
“You never had to say it, Eleanor. Had you said it outright, I’d have doubted your conviction, for we say what we want others to believe. It’s only through what we don’t say that we convey our true feelings. I’ve seen the longing in your eyes, and though I wished it was for me, I knew it was for another. For him.”
Thank you Netgalley, Dragonblade Publishing and Emily Royal for providing an advanced copy of this book. I am grateful for the opportunity and happy to share my thoughts and opinions.
Quick summary: Monty (not fond of the name, but what a great character) is a duke and incredibly annoyed at the superficial world of the ton. His mother is pressuring him to do his duty and marry a ‘suitable’ bride, in other words a beautiful girl with an impeccable background but with nothing else. Monty compared them to hothouse orchids:
“Exquisite to look at, but they serve no purpose other than to be admired. When a man takes one on, he’s burdened with a responsibility for life—to feed and water her while she strives to maintain her elegance. But when the bloom inevitably fades and the petals grow tired around the edges, the man must redouble his efforts while turning a blind eye to her fading beauty. And then, once the beauty has gone—do you know what the man’s left with?”
“I cannot imagine.”
“A bowl of dirt,”
So he does everything in his power to postpone marriage. But his mother keeps nagging him to do his duty, so one night he impulsively proposes marriage to the least interesting, dull and quiet girl in the ballroom - Eleanor. He figures that this will get his mother off his back and the girl won’t hold him to it. Eleanor has been secretly in love with Monty, but is considered an oddity by the people around her. She believes all the judgements that are uttered about her, but she has many great qualities.
I loved how Monty saw through the shallowness of polite society, felt exasperated by it and slowly was taught another view on life by Eleanor. She showed Monty the difference between seeing and looking. And Monty showed her that it was okay to be herself; different. It is all about perspective:
“Rather than converse in riddles to conform to Society, you speak—and depict—the absolute truth. Whether that gives offense is no reflection of your character, Miss Howard, but that of others.”
The story is extremely well written. It has enormous depth, great dialogues and many wonderful, deep thoughts. At the same time it flowed so well, at just the right pace. It has great character development and the falling in love felt real and even inevitable.
It touches on the subject of autism but in a beautiful way, without getting heavy.
The secondary characters were the perfect addition to the story. The Marlows, Elanor’s father, Monty’s mother - I loved them! I loved that the characters were great but also flawed. Everybody is flawed but it’s all about the willingness to grow. The contrast between who did not want to grow and who did was well represented. Just look at Juliette, Arabella and Eleanor’s mother vs. Monty, Lavinia and even Monty’s mother (I loved her!!). The story is about friendship, acceptance, forgiveness, being yourself, about being accepted and being accepting and the beauty in differences. It’s about being real and respected for who you are as a person deep down inside your heart and the way you treat others. Even the entire society with its titles is pitted against the working man with a profession. Which of the two truly commanded respect?
It is truly a beautiful story and I can highly recommend it! I have added Emily Royal to my Favorite Writers’ list and will definitely read more of her books!
A few of my favorite quotes:
“Eleanor sees people without looking at them,” the boy said. “I hate being looked at, but I don’t want to be invisible—a-and Eleanor saw me.”
“The deepest love goes hand in hand with a fear of rejection that overcomes all hope. And you therefore take what is on offer, knowing that the pain of rejection if you admit—even to yourself—that you yearn for more would be too much to bear.”
“Are you saying that you cannot compete with a duke?” she asked.
“No,” he said. “I’m saying that I cannot compete with the man you love.”
“I’ve never said—”
“You never had to say it, Eleanor. Had you said it outright, I’d have doubted your conviction, for we say what we want others to believe. It’s only through what we don’t say that we convey our true feelings. I’ve seen the longing in your eyes, and though I wished it was for me, I knew it was for another. For him.”
Thank you Netgalley, Dragonblade Publishing and Emily Royal for providing an advanced copy of this book. I am grateful for the opportunity and happy to share my thoughts and opinions.
August 24, 2025
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
For Eleanor Howard, the season is more of a chore than a joy. She's always on the outskirts of a ballroom, where her younger sister Juliette grabs all of the attention. However, she does enjoy ton events when she gets to see Montague FitzRoy, fifth Duke of Whitcombe. He doesn't know she even exists, but Eleanor is drawn to him like none else. So when Monty walks up to her in a ballroom, and proposes, Eleanor doesn't know what to think. And the fact that he did it only to spire his own mother makes the situation even more complicated. They are complete opposites, but somehow they might just be made for each other.
I don't actually think I've read a book, and especially not a historical romance, which has portrayed an autistic FMC so well. I'm autistic, and I felt seen so much in Eleanor - to the point I wanted to cry. Emily, thank you so much for this book! I wasn't overly keen on the fact that Monty proposed as a joke to Eleanor. Okay, he didn't know just how important that would be to Eleanor, but it was still a crappy thing to do. He did make up for it though, and the fact that he saw Eleanor, rather than being taken in by her mother or sister, and recognised when she struggled, and when she was enjoying herself, was perfect for the couple. I thought book 3 was my favourite, but I was wrong. This one is definitely the best of the whole series!
For Eleanor Howard, the season is more of a chore than a joy. She's always on the outskirts of a ballroom, where her younger sister Juliette grabs all of the attention. However, she does enjoy ton events when she gets to see Montague FitzRoy, fifth Duke of Whitcombe. He doesn't know she even exists, but Eleanor is drawn to him like none else. So when Monty walks up to her in a ballroom, and proposes, Eleanor doesn't know what to think. And the fact that he did it only to spire his own mother makes the situation even more complicated. They are complete opposites, but somehow they might just be made for each other.
I don't actually think I've read a book, and especially not a historical romance, which has portrayed an autistic FMC so well. I'm autistic, and I felt seen so much in Eleanor - to the point I wanted to cry. Emily, thank you so much for this book! I wasn't overly keen on the fact that Monty proposed as a joke to Eleanor. Okay, he didn't know just how important that would be to Eleanor, but it was still a crappy thing to do. He did make up for it though, and the fact that he saw Eleanor, rather than being taken in by her mother or sister, and recognised when she struggled, and when she was enjoying herself, was perfect for the couple. I thought book 3 was my favourite, but I was wrong. This one is definitely the best of the whole series!
April 14, 2024
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I appreciated an author depicting what it may have been like to have autism during the Regency era, but the depiction was so subtle most of the time that her behavior could have also been explained by being a very sheltered young woman with extreme social anxiety. And there were times when she didn't understand something and other times where she seemed to be able to understand people just fine; and given how her sister and mother talked about people I found it hard to believe that she wouldn't be aware of different terms for illegitimate children. Overall though, I think that anyone who has ever felt like they didn't quite fit in or had people judge them unfairly will relate to Eleanor. I would have liked to know a little more about her behaviors in public that led to people referring to her as "eccentric" - she seemed more shy and awkward than what I would have thought of as eccentric. As for Monty - he's one of those characters you like, then get frustrated with, then like again, then want to smack (and a few people do get some good swings in on him), then like again. His reasons for getting Eleanor involved in his life's drama are not great, but he did step up when she really needed him to. Her sister is pretty awful the entire way through the story and I can't say I felt all that bad for her in the end - I do feel for her having to go through everything alone, but had she not been so unnecessarily cruel to Eleanor she probably wouldn't have had to. The big question there is if she will pop up in a future book, unless this whole thing gives her a personality transplant I don't want to see her get her great big love story (am I being too tough on her? maybe, but I just don't think I could root for her). Now, back to Eleanor and Monty. I liked that their story takes place over time but I wished the time of their separation hadn't been so long. The upside of that was that it gave Eleanor the chance to learn for a fact that there were other people out there who would accept her and other men who would have happily married her. Even though she knew she could never marry Mr. Staines I think it was good for her to know she was indeed very lovable. I really liked Lavinia in her book, but found her to sometimes be a little overbearing here. She sometimes tried to take control of situations for Eleanor and tell her what to do (all out of love) as though she feels Eleanor can't be trusted to make her own smart decisions. I also didn't like that she tried to blame Monty for everything with Juliette - she had her eyes on her own Duke way before Monty and Eleanor got involved with one another. And how did Juliette and Mrs. Howard, who are all about gossip, not know about the rumors regarding that Duke's bad behaviors? Tangent done. I liked the big reunion scene with Monty and Eleanor, but he definitely owed Mr. Staines an apology - could her really blame the man for falling in love with Eleanor? The only thing missing from the epilogue was a quick update on Eleanor's father - I would have just liked to have known that he was back on his feet and happier now that his daughter was back home.
I appreciated an author depicting what it may have been like to have autism during the Regency era, but the depiction was so subtle most of the time that her behavior could have also been explained by being a very sheltered young woman with extreme social anxiety. And there were times when she didn't understand something and other times where she seemed to be able to understand people just fine; and given how her sister and mother talked about people I found it hard to believe that she wouldn't be aware of different terms for illegitimate children. Overall though, I think that anyone who has ever felt like they didn't quite fit in or had people judge them unfairly will relate to Eleanor. I would have liked to know a little more about her behaviors in public that led to people referring to her as "eccentric" - she seemed more shy and awkward than what I would have thought of as eccentric. As for Monty - he's one of those characters you like, then get frustrated with, then like again, then want to smack (and a few people do get some good swings in on him), then like again. His reasons for getting Eleanor involved in his life's drama are not great, but he did step up when she really needed him to. Her sister is pretty awful the entire way through the story and I can't say I felt all that bad for her in the end - I do feel for her having to go through everything alone, but had she not been so unnecessarily cruel to Eleanor she probably wouldn't have had to. The big question there is if she will pop up in a future book, unless this whole thing gives her a personality transplant I don't want to see her get her great big love story (am I being too tough on her? maybe, but I just don't think I could root for her). Now, back to Eleanor and Monty. I liked that their story takes place over time but I wished the time of their separation hadn't been so long. The upside of that was that it gave Eleanor the chance to learn for a fact that there were other people out there who would accept her and other men who would have happily married her. Even though she knew she could never marry Mr. Staines I think it was good for her to know she was indeed very lovable. I really liked Lavinia in her book, but found her to sometimes be a little overbearing here. She sometimes tried to take control of situations for Eleanor and tell her what to do (all out of love) as though she feels Eleanor can't be trusted to make her own smart decisions. I also didn't like that she tried to blame Monty for everything with Juliette - she had her eyes on her own Duke way before Monty and Eleanor got involved with one another. And how did Juliette and Mrs. Howard, who are all about gossip, not know about the rumors regarding that Duke's bad behaviors? Tangent done. I liked the big reunion scene with Monty and Eleanor, but he definitely owed Mr. Staines an apology - could her really blame the man for falling in love with Eleanor? The only thing missing from the epilogue was a quick update on Eleanor's father - I would have just liked to have known that he was back on his feet and happier now that his daughter was back home.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2024
Characters who present as neuro-divergent have suddenly become the micro-trope I’m getting into. In Oddity of the Ton, Emily Royal tells of Eleanor Howard, the perpetually awkward older sister to ton darling Juliette. Eleanor not only has to endure society’s scorn, she also has to deal with the petty Juliette and her overbearing, ambitious mother. Eleanor wants to be loved for herself, the way her father does, but chances are slim in her world where veneer and varnish are valued more than essence.
Eleanor’s luck changes when Montague FitzRoy, the fifth Duke of Whitcombe has finally tired of his mother’s nagging and proposed marriage. Eleanor thinks Montague is being sincere; Montague, immediately sensing her innocence and naivete, gets his conscience pricked and assuages it by suggesting a mutually beneficial arrangement instead. For the course of their supposed engagement, she’ll keep his mother from hovering and he’ll teach her social graces–tips and tricks to survive in society.
There’s something that feels a bit more special and sweet for me when someone who has the power and influence to wield, falls to his knees and calls up everything he has for the benefit of such a neglected, othered person. Eleanor is lovable in her own right, but it isn’t until Montague attaches himself to her that the rest of the world, including Montague himself, gives her the respect she’s always deserved.
As Montague gets to know Eleanor, he starts to first understand, then see her, and finally, falls in love. While he’s intelligent enough to know and recognize his emotions, he’s too set in his ways and put too much stock on their once-agreed parameters to change the trajectory of their denouement.
I am rooting for Montague and Eleanor from the beginning. I wanted to see them come fully alive and happy. It was sigh-worthy, the way they got intimate, and it’s gratifying, always, to see him realize the gift he has in his fake fiancee.
And though Montague gave me a second’s grief towards the ending, and I’m not fully convinced he’s groveled enough (on page, at least), I’m still a sucker for him being a goner for the very special Eleanor.
I received an ARC from Netgalley. This review is made voluntarily, honestly, and for free.
Eleanor’s luck changes when Montague FitzRoy, the fifth Duke of Whitcombe has finally tired of his mother’s nagging and proposed marriage. Eleanor thinks Montague is being sincere; Montague, immediately sensing her innocence and naivete, gets his conscience pricked and assuages it by suggesting a mutually beneficial arrangement instead. For the course of their supposed engagement, she’ll keep his mother from hovering and he’ll teach her social graces–tips and tricks to survive in society.
There’s something that feels a bit more special and sweet for me when someone who has the power and influence to wield, falls to his knees and calls up everything he has for the benefit of such a neglected, othered person. Eleanor is lovable in her own right, but it isn’t until Montague attaches himself to her that the rest of the world, including Montague himself, gives her the respect she’s always deserved.
As Montague gets to know Eleanor, he starts to first understand, then see her, and finally, falls in love. While he’s intelligent enough to know and recognize his emotions, he’s too set in his ways and put too much stock on their once-agreed parameters to change the trajectory of their denouement.
I am rooting for Montague and Eleanor from the beginning. I wanted to see them come fully alive and happy. It was sigh-worthy, the way they got intimate, and it’s gratifying, always, to see him realize the gift he has in his fake fiancee.
And though Montague gave me a second’s grief towards the ending, and I’m not fully convinced he’s groveled enough (on page, at least), I’m still a sucker for him being a goner for the very special Eleanor.
I received an ARC from Netgalley. This review is made voluntarily, honestly, and for free.
April 27, 2024
Montague FitzRoy, fifth Duke of Whitcombe.Is an arrogant, selfish rake, who does this mostly to irritate his mother. But he also does it out of boredom. To him the world is there for his pleasure and he takes full advantage. At his wits end with his mother nagging him to marry, one from this season's crop of spoiled means spirited harppies. Whitcombe picks the quietest, plainest, unpretentious woman at the ball and asks her to marry him.
Eleanor Howard the daughter of a silk merchant has watched and been infatuated with Whitcombe for a few years. She can draw him by memory, describe him in detail, but never talk with him. She believes the proposal is real. Elated that she will get him forever, agrees to his marriage proposal.
When he arrives the next day to explain, sees the distress he is causing her, then overheads the sister, Whitcombe makes a gesture that will help Eleanor, he hopes. He finds that the more time he spends with her the more he sees the world through her eyes and the wrongs he has committed.
When the end of the engagement is announced, Eleanor is released to a point as well as saddened. Her sister does an unspeakable cruel act, and her father finally understands that he has to let her go and live the quiet life she craves.
Whitcombe on the other hand berates himself, gets justly slapped, and ends up confessing to the one person he believes will give him the help to locate his heart. Lady Lavinia Marlow, his friends wife and Eleanor's best friend. Armed with locations where she might be, Whitcombe scours the country looking for Eleanor. When he happens to finally find her, she is distrot. Knowing the only thing that can calm her, he slips her bracket off her wrist and places it in her hand to which she starts to twirl it and looks him in the eyes now knowing he really did see the true her.
While reading the end of the book, have tissues at hand, you will need them. I was so thrilled, enthralled, and engaged throughout this book. I believe it is one of the best thought out, heartfelt, and beautifully told stories I have ever read.
The characters may be flawed, but they are so engaging, compelling, and lifelike that you can just imagine and interact with them. So come hold Eleanor's hand, slap Whitcombe, cry with Sir Leonard and Lady Lavinia as you flow through this story to its end.
Eleanor Howard the daughter of a silk merchant has watched and been infatuated with Whitcombe for a few years. She can draw him by memory, describe him in detail, but never talk with him. She believes the proposal is real. Elated that she will get him forever, agrees to his marriage proposal.
When he arrives the next day to explain, sees the distress he is causing her, then overheads the sister, Whitcombe makes a gesture that will help Eleanor, he hopes. He finds that the more time he spends with her the more he sees the world through her eyes and the wrongs he has committed.
When the end of the engagement is announced, Eleanor is released to a point as well as saddened. Her sister does an unspeakable cruel act, and her father finally understands that he has to let her go and live the quiet life she craves.
Whitcombe on the other hand berates himself, gets justly slapped, and ends up confessing to the one person he believes will give him the help to locate his heart. Lady Lavinia Marlow, his friends wife and Eleanor's best friend. Armed with locations where she might be, Whitcombe scours the country looking for Eleanor. When he happens to finally find her, she is distrot. Knowing the only thing that can calm her, he slips her bracket off her wrist and places it in her hand to which she starts to twirl it and looks him in the eyes now knowing he really did see the true her.
While reading the end of the book, have tissues at hand, you will need them. I was so thrilled, enthralled, and engaged throughout this book. I believe it is one of the best thought out, heartfelt, and beautifully told stories I have ever read.
The characters may be flawed, but they are so engaging, compelling, and lifelike that you can just imagine and interact with them. So come hold Eleanor's hand, slap Whitcombe, cry with Sir Leonard and Lady Lavinia as you flow through this story to its end.
June 19, 2024
This was a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey into the unfathomable world of high society, where success is measured by suitors and societal expectations reign supreme. With its compelling storyline and heartfelt characters, this book is a remarkable exploration of love, acceptance, and the power of breaking societal norms.
The story revolves around Eleanor, a young lady who has always felt like an outsider in the world of the Ton. Constantly overshadowed by her younger sister and criticized by her ambitious mother, Eleanor finds solace in her own unique way of perceiving the world. Her character is beautifully portrayed, and readers can't help but empathize with her struggles and yearning for acceptance.
Enter Montague FitzRoy, the fifth Duke of Whitcombe, a charming and independent bachelor who has no intention of succumbing to the pressures of marriage. When coerced by his mother to find a suitable duchess, he decides to defy expectations by choosing the least desirable woman in the room—Eleanor. What starts as a spontaneous act of rebellion quickly transforms into a profound connection based on mutual understanding and support.
One of the most remarkable aspects of "Oddity of the Ton" is the portrayal of Eleanor's experience with autism. Emily Royal handles this delicate topic with sensitivity and authenticity, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum. Through Eleanor's character, the author beautifully captures the beauty and strength that can arise from embracing one's differences.
The evolution of the relationship between Eleanor and Montague is a true delight to witness. As they navigate the intricacies of society and confront their own vulnerabilities, their connection deepens, and love blossoms.
The author's writing style is engaging and immersive, effortlessly transporting readers to the opulent world of the Ton. The attention to detail and vivid descriptions create a rich backdrop for the characters to come alive, drawing readers into their world and keeping them captivated until the very last page.
Emily Royal's skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and sensitive exploration of autism make this novel an exceptional and memorable read.
The story revolves around Eleanor, a young lady who has always felt like an outsider in the world of the Ton. Constantly overshadowed by her younger sister and criticized by her ambitious mother, Eleanor finds solace in her own unique way of perceiving the world. Her character is beautifully portrayed, and readers can't help but empathize with her struggles and yearning for acceptance.
Enter Montague FitzRoy, the fifth Duke of Whitcombe, a charming and independent bachelor who has no intention of succumbing to the pressures of marriage. When coerced by his mother to find a suitable duchess, he decides to defy expectations by choosing the least desirable woman in the room—Eleanor. What starts as a spontaneous act of rebellion quickly transforms into a profound connection based on mutual understanding and support.
One of the most remarkable aspects of "Oddity of the Ton" is the portrayal of Eleanor's experience with autism. Emily Royal handles this delicate topic with sensitivity and authenticity, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum. Through Eleanor's character, the author beautifully captures the beauty and strength that can arise from embracing one's differences.
The evolution of the relationship between Eleanor and Montague is a true delight to witness. As they navigate the intricacies of society and confront their own vulnerabilities, their connection deepens, and love blossoms.
The author's writing style is engaging and immersive, effortlessly transporting readers to the opulent world of the Ton. The attention to detail and vivid descriptions create a rich backdrop for the characters to come alive, drawing readers into their world and keeping them captivated until the very last page.
Emily Royal's skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and sensitive exploration of autism make this novel an exceptional and memorable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2024
Oddity of the Ton is one of the books in the series Misfits of the Ton. The books are written by Emily Royal. I chose the book because of the title that I found interesting. Little did I know that I would be reading about the population that I help teach. Eleanor Howard, as the main character is considered odd. In reality, she is highly sensitive to sounds and crowds. She also struggles negotiating the social language of the society. In reality Eleanor has autism, something that was not recognized or even known about at the time. I loved how realistic Eleanor felt to me in her portrayal, but then reading about the author explained it all to me. Emily was able to describe autism so well as she also is a person who has been diagnosed with it.
Eleanor is constantly at war with her family as she never seems to do anything right. Her mother and sister constantly harp on her as being hopeless. Montague FitzRoy, fifth Duke of Whitcombe is the person Eleanor has a huge crush on. His mother is constantly harping on him to marry an appropriate person. He suddenly proposes to Eleanor to shut his mother up. What he doesn’t realize is that she is a kind and caring person, who struggles. Eleanor accepts the proposal and is devastated the next day to find that he only made the proposal to shut his mother down. However, they both can help each other and they make a deal. The problem is that neither can expect the other person to fall madly in love with them, but they do. And so the problem in the story becomes what happens next.
I enjoyed reading Oddity of the Ton by Emily Royal. This was the first book I have read of hers and I can assure you it can be read as a standalone, although now I am wondering about the prior books and adding them to my lengthy TBR list. The Oddity of the Ton by Emily Royal is a good read.
Eleanor is constantly at war with her family as she never seems to do anything right. Her mother and sister constantly harp on her as being hopeless. Montague FitzRoy, fifth Duke of Whitcombe is the person Eleanor has a huge crush on. His mother is constantly harping on him to marry an appropriate person. He suddenly proposes to Eleanor to shut his mother up. What he doesn’t realize is that she is a kind and caring person, who struggles. Eleanor accepts the proposal and is devastated the next day to find that he only made the proposal to shut his mother down. However, they both can help each other and they make a deal. The problem is that neither can expect the other person to fall madly in love with them, but they do. And so the problem in the story becomes what happens next.
I enjoyed reading Oddity of the Ton by Emily Royal. This was the first book I have read of hers and I can assure you it can be read as a standalone, although now I am wondering about the prior books and adding them to my lengthy TBR list. The Oddity of the Ton by Emily Royal is a good read.
June 29, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for the arc.
I rated this 3.5-3.75 stars. This is a story about Eleanor Howard, the eldest daughter of a wealthy merchant family, who rarely fills her dance card during the season, and is currently in her fourth season. Her younger sister is considered her superior in looks, style, and attitude, and her mother constantly nags her about everything. Eleanor exhibits autism disorder tendencies, which is deemed "odd" by the ton, and she is mocked for her social miscues. Eleanor loves art, and her skills in sketching and painting are remarkable. And Eleanor has harbored a secret crush on one of the rakiest rakes of the ton, Montague FitzRoy, the Duke of Whitcombe.
Montague is sick and tired of his mother's attempts to set him up with potential future brides, so he proposes marriage to the most unlikely prospect of the ton, Eleanor Howard. Eleanor accepts his proposal, but Montague quickly informs her of why he proposed marriage, and he asks her to play along with this charade until the end of the season. Eleanor is disappointed, but agrees to play as long as Montague helps her learn to be more successful with potential suitors.
I loved Eleanor's character, and how the author described her mannerisms and thought processes. I also liked how the author wrote Montague's growing attraction to Eleanor, how protective he became towards her. But I thought the last 15%-20% of the book was very wordy, and could have used some editing. Overall, it was a very sweet story, but the ending could have been wrapped up better.
I rated this 3.5-3.75 stars. This is a story about Eleanor Howard, the eldest daughter of a wealthy merchant family, who rarely fills her dance card during the season, and is currently in her fourth season. Her younger sister is considered her superior in looks, style, and attitude, and her mother constantly nags her about everything. Eleanor exhibits autism disorder tendencies, which is deemed "odd" by the ton, and she is mocked for her social miscues. Eleanor loves art, and her skills in sketching and painting are remarkable. And Eleanor has harbored a secret crush on one of the rakiest rakes of the ton, Montague FitzRoy, the Duke of Whitcombe.
Montague is sick and tired of his mother's attempts to set him up with potential future brides, so he proposes marriage to the most unlikely prospect of the ton, Eleanor Howard. Eleanor accepts his proposal, but Montague quickly informs her of why he proposed marriage, and he asks her to play along with this charade until the end of the season. Eleanor is disappointed, but agrees to play as long as Montague helps her learn to be more successful with potential suitors.
I loved Eleanor's character, and how the author described her mannerisms and thought processes. I also liked how the author wrote Montague's growing attraction to Eleanor, how protective he became towards her. But I thought the last 15%-20% of the book was very wordy, and could have used some editing. Overall, it was a very sweet story, but the ending could have been wrapped up better.
April 25, 2024
As usual with this author, I was not able to put the book down. I really enjoyed the heroine Eleanor. I think that any person who has ever struggled to fit in will find her relatable. She has a tough time dealing with the harpies of the ton. This is compounded by the fact that two of the biggest harpies are right there in her own family. Her mother and sister treated her disgracefully. Her father was a good man but he was not always around. So, when the handsome Duke of Whitcombe proposed marriage, Eleanor couldn't believe her good fortune. As ridiculous as his proposal was, she just had to accept. Other members of the ton were convinced that the proposal was a ruse. Why would a duke settle for awkward Eleanor when he could have any woman he desired? When Monty confesses that he proposed to her in a fit of pique to upset his matchmaking mother, Eleanor is shattered. Not being an utter cad, Monty backtracks a bit and makes her a deal. He offers a temporary courtship which should be beneficial to the both of them. Poor lovesick Eleanor agrees.
The plot of this story is rather obvious but the road to the happy ending is a good one. The author offers quite a bit of information about painting which is Eleanor's great passion. She also shows the reader some of the features of autism. I found it very interesting. Monty and Eleanor both grew a lot during the course of the story. I had to break out the tissues as I neared the end.
I received a free ARC from the author and NetGalley. This is my honest review.
The plot of this story is rather obvious but the road to the happy ending is a good one. The author offers quite a bit of information about painting which is Eleanor's great passion. She also shows the reader some of the features of autism. I found it very interesting. Monty and Eleanor both grew a lot during the course of the story. I had to break out the tissues as I neared the end.
I received a free ARC from the author and NetGalley. This is my honest review.
April 27, 2024
I came to the end of this novel with a damp tissue in one hand and my emotions all over the place. In a selfish act, the Duke of Whitcombe proposes publically to Eleanor Howard to spite his demanding mother, never realizing the depths of Eleanor's feelings for him. Even in this present age when we have a better understanding of disorders, people who are different are hardly even seen as being special in their own right. Having put his foot in it, Montague is forced to go through with the motions of being betrothed to Eleanor, even though he has no intention of actually marrying her. Spending time with her, Montague is more perspective than he at first demonstrates and he begins to see beyond her fumbling and awkward manner when in public. Discovering her giftedness, Montague makes a deal with Eleanor to help her overcome some of her fears, little realizing the effect she will have on him. Ultimately Montague comes to the conclusion that he gained far more from their relationship than she ever received from him but unfortunately, it is already too late. Although she has very few friends, Montague discovers that they are intensely loyal to her, and tracking Eleanor down becomes a mammoth task. Montague is not the only person to be affected by the oddity of the ton and the novel comes to a beautiful conclusion with a number of hearts being healed and the mending of broken relationships. I received a copy of this well-written and heartwarming romance as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
April 27, 2024
A Wonderful Love Story
I really enjoyed this beautiful, heartwarming love story! The plot is very good and the characters are very well developed and very endearing. It doesn't take long to realise that Eleanor is autistic. She has an open, honest nature that really gets to your heart and makes the reader smile. Montague is a great character too. I particularly liked the way he responded to Eleanor's needs and protected her. It was heartwarming to see how Eleanor developed under his guidance and in turn how he started to look at the world through her eyes.
Although part of a series, this installment can be read as standalone.
Eleanor Howard is an oddity and the laughingstock of the ton, a woman who doesn’t fit in the superficial world of society. She is too awkward, too forward, too naïve, too honest, unable to deceive, which makes her unsuitable in the eyes of those who value flattery and conformity. Eleanor is afraid of big societal events that overwhelm her senses. Only painting gives her peace of mind, and she admires the Duke of Whitcombe from afar.
Lord Montague FitzRoy, the Duke of Whitcombe, is aloof and a confirmed bachelor pursued by debutantes and their matchmaking mamas. When his own mother plans to set him up with a beautiful but detestable woman, he offers for fun for Eleanor in order to distress his mother but soon realises that she is much more than society sees in her…
Overall, a very enjoyable read that I am happy to recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this beautiful, heartwarming love story! The plot is very good and the characters are very well developed and very endearing. It doesn't take long to realise that Eleanor is autistic. She has an open, honest nature that really gets to your heart and makes the reader smile. Montague is a great character too. I particularly liked the way he responded to Eleanor's needs and protected her. It was heartwarming to see how Eleanor developed under his guidance and in turn how he started to look at the world through her eyes.
Although part of a series, this installment can be read as standalone.
Eleanor Howard is an oddity and the laughingstock of the ton, a woman who doesn’t fit in the superficial world of society. She is too awkward, too forward, too naïve, too honest, unable to deceive, which makes her unsuitable in the eyes of those who value flattery and conformity. Eleanor is afraid of big societal events that overwhelm her senses. Only painting gives her peace of mind, and she admires the Duke of Whitcombe from afar.
Lord Montague FitzRoy, the Duke of Whitcombe, is aloof and a confirmed bachelor pursued by debutantes and their matchmaking mamas. When his own mother plans to set him up with a beautiful but detestable woman, he offers for fun for Eleanor in order to distress his mother but soon realises that she is much more than society sees in her…
Overall, a very enjoyable read that I am happy to recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 20, 2024
THE ODDITY OF THE TON provides a good example of how neurodivergent characters can be depicted in historical settings before the concept of autism or neurodivergence developed. I also liked that the author's note at the end explicitly discusses autism.
Because this is an "OwnVoices" novel, Eleanor's autism is realistically multidimensional. For example, she has difficulty with small talk and difficulty picking up on metaphor and innuendo, but she also has sensory issues that contribute to making social events difficult. I mention this in part because when neurotypical writers create autistic characters, they often seem to leave out sensory issues and focus only on the social issues or communication issues. Those issues are certainly more obvious from the outside (which is all an NT writer can see), but they aren't always the most challenging issues for an autistic person to live with day-to-day.
As an autistic reader whose special interests have always been in either the humanities or the soft sciences, I also appreciate that Eleanor isn't a mathematical or scientific genius. Special interests can come from any field of study, not just STEM!
I liked Eleanor as a character, and I sympatized with her. On the other hand, I frequently wanted to kick Monty down the stairs. That's not necessarily a negative, though: we're supposed to find him frustrating. In fact, other characters in the novel not only want to slap Monty, but actually do. He's the lead who has to grow and change the most. I just wish he'd made progress a little faster!
Because this is an "OwnVoices" novel, Eleanor's autism is realistically multidimensional. For example, she has difficulty with small talk and difficulty picking up on metaphor and innuendo, but she also has sensory issues that contribute to making social events difficult. I mention this in part because when neurotypical writers create autistic characters, they often seem to leave out sensory issues and focus only on the social issues or communication issues. Those issues are certainly more obvious from the outside (which is all an NT writer can see), but they aren't always the most challenging issues for an autistic person to live with day-to-day.
As an autistic reader whose special interests have always been in either the humanities or the soft sciences, I also appreciate that Eleanor isn't a mathematical or scientific genius. Special interests can come from any field of study, not just STEM!
I liked Eleanor as a character, and I sympatized with her. On the other hand, I frequently wanted to kick Monty down the stairs. That's not necessarily a negative, though: we're supposed to find him frustrating. In fact, other characters in the novel not only want to slap Monty, but actually do. He's the lead who has to grow and change the most. I just wish he'd made progress a little faster!
July 14, 2024
This is Book #4 of the delightful series, Misfits of the Ton. Eleanor has never fit into society's mold and just wishes people could love her for herself. She's always harbored a secret crush for the Monty, the Duke of Whitcombe, knowing full well he would never spare a glance in her direction. Which is why she is stunned beyond words when he approaches her at a ball and kneels before her and proposes marriage.
Monty knows he has to do his duty, but is annoyed with the ton's superficial expectations that he marry a suitable bride, meaning one who is beautiful and has an exceptional background, but not much else further than that to recommend her. His mother is no different, pressuring him to marry and to put a stop to her nagging, one night at a ball he finds the least interesting lady, Eleanor, and proposes to her. They begin a ruse of a fake betrothal that will keep his mother off his back and will also benefit Eleanor by making her more interesting and desirable, simply by being attached to a duke. But as they spend more time together, Monty begins to see her true inner beauty and simply cannot look away and inevitably falls for her.
I thought this was such a beautiful story and I loved the way Monty really saw past Eleanor's outer awkwardness into her true inner beauty. I was rooting for these two all the way through. Loved the story and the characters and enjoyed this story so much! Great addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Monty knows he has to do his duty, but is annoyed with the ton's superficial expectations that he marry a suitable bride, meaning one who is beautiful and has an exceptional background, but not much else further than that to recommend her. His mother is no different, pressuring him to marry and to put a stop to her nagging, one night at a ball he finds the least interesting lady, Eleanor, and proposes to her. They begin a ruse of a fake betrothal that will keep his mother off his back and will also benefit Eleanor by making her more interesting and desirable, simply by being attached to a duke. But as they spend more time together, Monty begins to see her true inner beauty and simply cannot look away and inevitably falls for her.
I thought this was such a beautiful story and I loved the way Monty really saw past Eleanor's outer awkwardness into her true inner beauty. I was rooting for these two all the way through. Loved the story and the characters and enjoyed this story so much! Great addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
May 1, 2024
Eleanor is someone who just does not fit in. She takes everything literally and is what today is "on the spectrum". It is very well portrayed in this story how this makes her stand out. She also has an abusive mother and a sister that is also very cruel to her. This is emotional abuse and extremely detrimental. Enter the Duke, who is self confident and somewhat self centered. He proposes to Eleanor on a whim when angry with his mother. Why he assumes Eleanor will know he is not serious is not clear. This is a little bit weak honestly, and when he tells her the next day that of course he was not serious she is devastated.
They decide to go forward with a fake engagement and the Duke begins to really show a much more caring side. The scenes between them were wonderful. This is the romantic part of the story and I did really enjoy it.
They decide to go forward with a fake engagement and the Duke begins to really show a much more caring side. The scenes between them were wonderful. This is the romantic part of the story and I did really enjoy it.
April 21, 2024
It didn't take me very long to see that the oddity in this book was the fact that the FMC had some version of Autism and it was very well coached against the time and environment of the genre. Eleanor is seen as awkward, clumsy and strange for her fascination with unladylike topics. Even worse her dislike for crowds and loud noises and her inability to understand social cues or maintain societal niceties has her marriage prospects looking dim indeed.
Which is why she is delighted when Lord Montague asks her to marry him in front of the entire Ton. Only for her to realise that it was a ruse to stop his mama from pestering him about marriage. She is devastated.
However, Montague does have a heart and agrees to tutor her on how to function in society. Montague is in turn sweet and a complete rake and my opinion of him swung between the two extremes. However, his behaviour does get better and he finally deserves our heroine.
It was lovely to see neurodivergent representation in the Regency period and the different problems they would have to those experienced in our modern-day environment. In fact for the most part Eleanor is seen as odd rather than damaged and it is only against the comparison with the young boy she meets later that we see how well she is at masking.
The romance between her and Montague was real and didn't feel forced or rushed. Their chemistry was undeniable.
A nice palate cleanser with decent neurodivergent representation in an unusual genre.
Which is why she is delighted when Lord Montague asks her to marry him in front of the entire Ton. Only for her to realise that it was a ruse to stop his mama from pestering him about marriage. She is devastated.
However, Montague does have a heart and agrees to tutor her on how to function in society. Montague is in turn sweet and a complete rake and my opinion of him swung between the two extremes. However, his behaviour does get better and he finally deserves our heroine.
It was lovely to see neurodivergent representation in the Regency period and the different problems they would have to those experienced in our modern-day environment. In fact for the most part Eleanor is seen as odd rather than damaged and it is only against the comparison with the young boy she meets later that we see how well she is at masking.
The romance between her and Montague was real and didn't feel forced or rushed. Their chemistry was undeniable.
A nice palate cleanser with decent neurodivergent representation in an unusual genre.
July 24, 2024
Genre: Historical Romance
Rating: 3/5⭐️
Spice: 1/5🌶️
Summary: Eleanor has spent her life disappointing her mother and sister with her social awkwardness. She yearns to find someone to love her as she is and dreams it could be the Duke of Whitcombe. She knows how impossible that would be but he surprises her by proposing publicly to her and she quickly accepts. He was only trying to pacify his mother and quickly realizes his mistake when he sees that Eleanor thought the offer genuine.
Thoughts: I absolutely loved the main female character, Eleanor. She was beautifully written and I loved the neurodivergent representation. Especially considering the time period, it was interesting to read how her behaviors were received then.
The storyline and the love story left me wanting much more, however. The chemistry never felt very deep because there are several side characters the main characters connect with that make the devotion they have to one another a bit questionable. The Duke’s thoughts and comments on Eleanor were also so wildly unromantic.
There is definitely so much potential for this author in how exquisite the writing was. I think with different characters, I could really get swept away in one of her books. I will definitely pick up another.
Rating: 3/5⭐️
Spice: 1/5🌶️
Summary: Eleanor has spent her life disappointing her mother and sister with her social awkwardness. She yearns to find someone to love her as she is and dreams it could be the Duke of Whitcombe. She knows how impossible that would be but he surprises her by proposing publicly to her and she quickly accepts. He was only trying to pacify his mother and quickly realizes his mistake when he sees that Eleanor thought the offer genuine.
Thoughts: I absolutely loved the main female character, Eleanor. She was beautifully written and I loved the neurodivergent representation. Especially considering the time period, it was interesting to read how her behaviors were received then.
The storyline and the love story left me wanting much more, however. The chemistry never felt very deep because there are several side characters the main characters connect with that make the devotion they have to one another a bit questionable. The Duke’s thoughts and comments on Eleanor were also so wildly unromantic.
There is definitely so much potential for this author in how exquisite the writing was. I think with different characters, I could really get swept away in one of her books. I will definitely pick up another.
June 4, 2024
5 STARS, UNUSUAL LOVERS
Emily Royal gets 5 STARS for Book 4 in her entertaining series: Misfits of the Ton. A good BLURB is provided. This is a fast paced well written storyline in the Historical Romance Era. It is different in a Duke in a quick decision decides to take his society life in his own hands & involves a woman that the same society viewed as a Spinster. Furthermore, a Spinster who was strange & could not really dance among other things; so the Ton decided she was either very stupid or she wasn't all there mentally or maybe she was afflicted in both areas.
A most unusual courtship for an irregular couple. These 2 definitely have problems with the weight of the Ton's snobbish society passing judgment, plus our woman has to deal with that same harshness or even worse at home by her Sister & Mother.
It's a journey of emotions & character development in the case of the Duke during their engagement & an eye opening understanding in better detail on how to maneuver within Ton society.
RECOMMEND
Emily Royal gets 5 STARS for Book 4 in her entertaining series: Misfits of the Ton. A good BLURB is provided. This is a fast paced well written storyline in the Historical Romance Era. It is different in a Duke in a quick decision decides to take his society life in his own hands & involves a woman that the same society viewed as a Spinster. Furthermore, a Spinster who was strange & could not really dance among other things; so the Ton decided she was either very stupid or she wasn't all there mentally or maybe she was afflicted in both areas.
A most unusual courtship for an irregular couple. These 2 definitely have problems with the weight of the Ton's snobbish society passing judgment, plus our woman has to deal with that same harshness or even worse at home by her Sister & Mother.
It's a journey of emotions & character development in the case of the Duke during their engagement & an eye opening understanding in better detail on how to maneuver within Ton society.
RECOMMEND
March 25, 2025
Emily Royal is a new author for me. This is only my 4th book by her. I found her when I was searching for new authors and new books to read. I have been reading some new authors lately and none have really excited me so was looking forward to reading her. Many of my favorite authors are published by Dragonblade so hope that is a good sign. I have really been enjoying this series so far.
I really loved Eleanor and Montague. I hate that men in those times could be such asses for “duty”. The world and their ancestors would have been a lot happier had the males just married who they loved or at least had some affection for and not out of some sense of duty or responsibility. UGH, so frustrating. I love how Eleanor and Montague would say something and then not realize they had said it out loud. It was so cute. I have to say so far, this has been my favorite book in the series. It gives all the feels. The ending had me riveted. It was so damn good. I added it to my list of favorite reads for March, 2025.
I really loved Eleanor and Montague. I hate that men in those times could be such asses for “duty”. The world and their ancestors would have been a lot happier had the males just married who they loved or at least had some affection for and not out of some sense of duty or responsibility. UGH, so frustrating. I love how Eleanor and Montague would say something and then not realize they had said it out loud. It was so cute. I have to say so far, this has been my favorite book in the series. It gives all the feels. The ending had me riveted. It was so damn good. I added it to my list of favorite reads for March, 2025.
April 18, 2024
A Ruse, A Request, Interesting Love Story:
The authors flamboyant and descriptive writing pulled me right into this intriguing story.
Eleanor, who is very naive young lady, is a disappointment to her mother and hated by her jealous sister is the heroine in this unusual story.
Montague is the handsome duke that captured my heart throughout all of the deception, escapades, a swoon worthy passionate lesson, and his heartfelt confession that brought tears of joy and a sigh of happiness. I did love the emotional dressing down he gave his mother.
Eleanor and Monty made a beautiful couple where they both learned and struggled through some difficult issues which brings the story to a happy ending.
📣Special Mention to Joey who stole everyone's heart
👀I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
💖I loved the authors note at the end of the book that has a powerful understanding that explained some of my questions.
The authors flamboyant and descriptive writing pulled me right into this intriguing story.
Eleanor, who is very naive young lady, is a disappointment to her mother and hated by her jealous sister is the heroine in this unusual story.
Montague is the handsome duke that captured my heart throughout all of the deception, escapades, a swoon worthy passionate lesson, and his heartfelt confession that brought tears of joy and a sigh of happiness. I did love the emotional dressing down he gave his mother.
Eleanor and Monty made a beautiful couple where they both learned and struggled through some difficult issues which brings the story to a happy ending.
📣Special Mention to Joey who stole everyone's heart
👀I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
💖I loved the authors note at the end of the book that has a powerful understanding that explained some of my questions.
May 4, 2024
I liked this - even as it aggravated me terribly in parts - it was an easy read and during my reading I found myself wondering from time to time if Ms Royal had recently read or watched Pride and Prejudice.
*Eleanor is awesome.
BUT
*Eleanor’s family, however, is seriously awful - her mother is terrible, her sister is a dreadful social climber who seems to enjoy deliberate acts of cruelty toward her sister, and her father annoyed me too.
*Blaming other people entirely for causing consequences based on the decisions and actions of one character really really irks me.
*I didn’t overly care for how this portrayed women.
*Montague’s actions and words didn’t always make sense to me; it occasionally seemed out of context, but I really liked his growth and evolution over the story.
My own issues aside, I read this easily and will check out other titles by the author.
Thank you to Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC
*Eleanor is awesome.
BUT
*Eleanor’s family, however, is seriously awful - her mother is terrible, her sister is a dreadful social climber who seems to enjoy deliberate acts of cruelty toward her sister, and her father annoyed me too.
*Blaming other people entirely for causing consequences based on the decisions and actions of one character really really irks me.
*I didn’t overly care for how this portrayed women.
*Montague’s actions and words didn’t always make sense to me; it occasionally seemed out of context, but I really liked his growth and evolution over the story.
My own issues aside, I read this easily and will check out other titles by the author.
Thank you to Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC
May 10, 2024
Beautifully Written
A misunderstood Eleanor falls in love with a rake. Will he break her heart? Tired of his mother's badgering, Monty proposes to her in front of the ton. However, he has no intention of marrying her. The next day, the two agree to continue the sham, but for Eleanor, it is love at first sight. Her heart will break. What Monty does not realize is that he has no control over his heart. Eleanor may not be particularly beautiful on the outside, but as Monty gets to know her, he sees her for the remarkable woman she is. What happens when the two part ways as they originally agreed? What will it take for Monty to realize that breaking his engagement to Eleanor means losing the best thing that happened to him?
This story is beautifully written. Just when I think I am reading the best Emily Royal book, she comes up with a better one. I loved this story and would recommend it to those who enjoy historical romance, where the characters are beautifully flawed.
A misunderstood Eleanor falls in love with a rake. Will he break her heart? Tired of his mother's badgering, Monty proposes to her in front of the ton. However, he has no intention of marrying her. The next day, the two agree to continue the sham, but for Eleanor, it is love at first sight. Her heart will break. What Monty does not realize is that he has no control over his heart. Eleanor may not be particularly beautiful on the outside, but as Monty gets to know her, he sees her for the remarkable woman she is. What happens when the two part ways as they originally agreed? What will it take for Monty to realize that breaking his engagement to Eleanor means losing the best thing that happened to him?
This story is beautifully written. Just when I think I am reading the best Emily Royal book, she comes up with a better one. I loved this story and would recommend it to those who enjoy historical romance, where the characters are beautifully flawed.
June 2, 2024
Beautiful story
What a beautiful story this is. What a rollercoaster of emotions the reader experiences when reading this story. Both Eleanor and Montague are such complex characters, and especially Monty, he goes through so much to prove his love for Eleanor.
Emily Royal portrays Eleanor with such feeling, she's such a lovely character, if she was real everyone should have an Eleanor in their life and be all the richer for it.
Eleanor is Autistic, she is living with her family, a father who loves her, a mother who despises her and a younger sister who detests her. Montague is a rogue.
I'm not going to say anything more about this wonderful book, but please, please, if you want to read a story that had me gripped from the first page to the last read this one. This is one of the best stories I have read so far this year. The next book I read has a lot to live up to ........ Maybe I'll just turn around and read Eleanor and Montague story again ..........
What a beautiful story this is. What a rollercoaster of emotions the reader experiences when reading this story. Both Eleanor and Montague are such complex characters, and especially Monty, he goes through so much to prove his love for Eleanor.
Emily Royal portrays Eleanor with such feeling, she's such a lovely character, if she was real everyone should have an Eleanor in their life and be all the richer for it.
Eleanor is Autistic, she is living with her family, a father who loves her, a mother who despises her and a younger sister who detests her. Montague is a rogue.
I'm not going to say anything more about this wonderful book, but please, please, if you want to read a story that had me gripped from the first page to the last read this one. This is one of the best stories I have read so far this year. The next book I read has a lot to live up to ........ Maybe I'll just turn around and read Eleanor and Montague story again ..........
April 29, 2024
Eleanor is the elder daughter of a merchant and a social climbing and demanding mother. Her younger sister is just like her !other, the centre of attention, a bit outrageous and out to catch the highest rank husband she can. Eleanor prefers to sit and watch, think things through before getting involved, very much like her father. So when Montague, a dashing duke Eleanor has a crush on asks her to marry him at the first party he's spoken to her at, Eleanor is surprised into saying yes. But does Montague mean it?
Was surprised when the author dived into autism in her blurb at the end of the book, felt it was the wrong label for Eleanor, given how she was depicted in the book.
I did like how Montague got caught by his own manoeuvring, and how he treated his sister and latterly his mother.I
But what about Juliette?
Was surprised when the author dived into autism in her blurb at the end of the book, felt it was the wrong label for Eleanor, given how she was depicted in the book.
I did like how Montague got caught by his own manoeuvring, and how he treated his sister and latterly his mother.I
But what about Juliette?
January 13, 2025
Loved the plot and the fmc. Loved that this has a neurodivergent (autistic) heroine and as a psych major, I can say that she did an exceptional representation. Took me quite some time to love the hero and I still think he didn't grovel enough but well he got some verbal and physical lashings so I guess it's fine. The romance was so good tho, it is very slow-burn but you'd really see and understand how they fell for each other. And despite them being total opposites, it just works. Just a bit of steam but didn't really affect my enjoyment of the story. However, I think the mother and sister didn't really get the comeuppance they deserved, they are so horrible. Some parts also dragged too much (most especially near the end) but for the most part, the whole book flowed well and I really liked the plotlines. So nice.
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