The Care and Feeding of Rogues

by Lauren Smith

Who could resist a wager from London’s most popular detective, Sherlock Holmes? Certainly not his scientist neighbor, Elise Hamblin.

The Study the primal nature of men; but not just any man for her study will do. Sherlock has chosen the Earl of March, a man with a scandalous and dangerous reputation.

Prospero Harrington has returned from exile to claim the title of Earl of March and his late father’s mounting debts. Desperate to secure his future, he responds to an intriguing ad and finds himself the subject of observation by a beautiful woman in exchange for a hefty payment.

Disguised as a man, Elise follows Prospero about London. Their close proximity and adventures provides a fascinating introduction to the world of men, passion, and desire.

Tragedy strikes and Elise must rely on the scandalous rogue she’s been studying. Enemies from Prospero’s dangerous past set their sights on the new earl and the woman who has won his heart, forcing him to face his past or lose Elise forever.

The Care and Feeding of Rogues is a stranger to lovers romance with a lady scientist and a scandalous rogue with a heart of gold. What starts out as a wager becomes the adventure of a lifetime, with a guaranteed HEA.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Action

340 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2024

About the author

Lauren Smith is a USA Today Best-Selling author and an Oklahoma attorney. She knew she was destined to be a romance writer when she attempted to re-write the entire Titanic movie just to save Jack from drowning. Connecting with readers by writing emotionally moving, realistic and sexy romances no matter what time period is her passion. She’s won multiple awards in several romance subgenres including: New England Reader’s Choice Awards, Greater Detroit BookSeller’s Best Awards, Amazon.com Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-Finalist and a Semi-Finalist for the Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Award. To connect with Lauren, visit her at www.laurensmithbooks.com or twitter at @LSmithAuthor.

Reviews

[Alexandra G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrilling, seductive and absolutely unputdownable!
It starts off nice and easy with a playful naughty touch, but then the other darker half of the plot picks up the pace and I kept telling myself “calm down, Sherlock will save the day”… an excellent read! Loved everything about it, start to finish!

The chain of events is set in motion by a strange bet between Elise and Sherlock, but it’s Guy, Prospero’s friend, who accidentally attracts the attention of an old foe out for cruel revenge.

Cupid strikes the moment Elise and Prospero set eyes on each other - he knows instantly, she needs a beat or two to catch up. She’s determined to outsmart Sherlock, but soon learns that, unlike animals, men tease and weasel their way in; especially one as charming and women-wise as Prospero. He’s torn between romance and realism. He wants her but is in no position to offer for her, and she makes it quite clear she’s not about to surrender her freedom as an heiress to any man, not even him. Fortunately, serendipity and her father give them a little nudge…

There’s something quite irresistible and endearing about a rogue down on his luck, but with tons of life experience - and Prospero is exactly that! Elise is a curious and very intelligent young woman, a naturalist, yet just unworldly enough to be utterly adorable. And the two of them together is just perfect!

With a solid plot, complex MCs, great chemistry and interesting sidekicks who I believe will be the mains in the next books, this is a fun fast-paced read with plenty of steam, quick wit and a nice splash of danger. A smashing start to a new series that promises to be most entertaining!

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Care and Feeding of Rogues is book one in A Lady’s Guide series by Lauren Smith. If book one was any indication, of what is to come, this is going to be an amazing series!

What starts out as a wager between Sherlock Holmes and his neighbor, Elise Hamblin changes her life in ways she could never have predicted.

The wager: Study the primal nature of men and Sherlock has selected Prospero Harrington who has recently returned from exile to claim the title of Earl of March.

Prospero returns to mounting debts and a decaying estate so he is desperately in the need of funds. Although, he is hesitate he responds to a fascinating advertisement and agrees that he will be observed by Elise, to study the primal nature of men, in exchange for a significant payment.

Elise is a naturalist, science is her passion until the wager and Prospero, the Earl of March enters her life.

I loved the funny exchanges, passionate moments, suspense, and that Prospero didn’t let his past define his future. His caring nature was enough to make Elsie reconsider her plans to remain unmarried and take a chance on him and love!

This book was fabulous! The characters are written beautifully. Unexpected twists and turns that kept me eagerly turning the pages. I look forward to reading more about the other characters in the Society of the Rebellious Ladies.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lauren Smith is another favorite author of mine. This is my 36th book by her. I read a couple of her books in 2015 and 2016 but didn't pick her up again regularly until 2018. She has several books on my overall top favorite reads of almost 3000 books. I just love her writing.

This story was interesting. Not my favorite of hers but still a good read. Just had an interesting storyline and characters. I liked Elise and Prospero. They did seem to make a good couple. I'm just glad I was able to read at all since the Hurricane landed and we've had no power for 2 days. Yikes.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to BookSirens for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is the start of a new series, and I thought it would be more of the characters working with Sherlock Holmes, in the world of Holmes. But while Sherlock and Watson are significant characters in the story, the story does not center around them - they are more significant side characters.

The story starts in the past with a young Prospero Harrington, heir to the Earl of March. At 22, he is forced to flee the country after having been engaged in a dual when he is accused of ruining a young woman and impregnating her. Prospero knows he is innocent, but he was named by the woman in question and her brother challenges him. Despite his innocence and refusal to shoot at his challenger, Prospero still ends up injured and forced to flee for France, when his opponent ends up dead. For the next many years, Prospero is estranged from his family, with no support and forced to earn his own means.

Elise Hamblin is a scholarly bluestocking, who, with like-minded friends, runs a society that fosters learning and education of other women. It is difficult for them to meet and plan, when their neighbour, the notorious Sherlock Holmes, screeches away on his violin during their scheduled meetings, despite frequent entreaties to do so at other times. When Elise confronts him yet again, this leads them down the path of a wager to prove her understanding about the nature of men, with Sherlock choosing a rogue for her to study. The specimen in question? The new Earl of March, recently returned to England. Elise, on discovering that Prospero is returning to a ruined reputation, and impoverished estates, sets up an ad for participants in a study, offering payment. Prospero, hoping on not returning to being a paid companion for women, applies, and of course, gets the position.

Elise, the bluestocking scholar, makes Prospero the focus of her study to understand men, specifically a rogue. But Prospero is deeply intrigued and attracted to Elise's beautiful mind and thoughts, as well as her outer beauty, and Elise finds herself learning about attraction and passion as well. But she has never contemplated a future other than that of a scholarly spinster. However, her father, out of concern for Elise being alone in the world, when he is gone, uses the situation to his advantage to matchmake between Prospero and Elise. Especially as Prospero encourages and supports his daughters endeavours and promises to never stifle her.

Unfortunately Prospero's past threatens his and Elise's future together, when word of his prosperity and happiness fans the anger and ill will of others, who now seek revenge against him.

I really enjoyed the dynamic of Prospero and Elise, and their characters. They were warm, sexy, and fun. I enjoyed Elise's curiosity and enthusiasm for the natural sciences, and Prospero's love for her intelligence and encouragement of her. He was a rogue out of necessity, rather than a rogue at heart; an innocent man labelled as a rogue because of circumstances out of his control and who lost essentially the entire course of his life and family. He was lost, and seeking redemption and reaffirmation again, finding it with Elise and her friends and family. Elise could have become lost in her studies, but having Prospero in her life I expected a heavier inclusion of Sherlock and Watson, and was pleasantly surprised at how they were included in the story - it was not a reworking of a Sherlock Holmes story with a historical romance tilt. It was a historical romance, with Holmes and Watson playing secondary roles, and it was done with a light and refreshing touch.

4.5 out of 5

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

The start of a new series & an unputdownable starter. Elise Hamblin takes on a wager from no other than Sherlock Holmes. The challenge: Study the primal nature of men & the subject of her study is Prospero Harrington who has returned from a twelve year exile to claim the title of Earl of March and his late father’s mounting debts. Wonderful characters, a fast paced story, sizzling chemistry & someone out for revenge made for an engrossing romance. I love the author’s books & this book shows why, she always takes me on a plethora of emotions & yes once again I was reaching for the tissues. The secondary characters are also a delight & look forward to their stories.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Katrina Garcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️

Received this book as an eARC through Hidden Gems Books. I was genuinely surprised at how much I enjoyed this read. It was sweet, romantic, intriguing, and captivating the whole way through and I found myself giggling, smiling to myself, and swooning over this story. Elise Hamblin is a powerhouse and I was enamoured with the way the relationship between her and the dashing, caring Prospero blossoms throughout this compelling tale. Lauren Smith had me hooked from the first chapter and excited to dive back in every chance I could, and I will most definitely be following up with the rest of this series once it is published!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderfully crafted tale of a society of women who defy society’s expectations to pursue knowledge. And specifically Elise, who is very smart, caring, independent, knowledgeable and up for researching and studying any subject. Including the man, Prospero. He is open minded, has deep insights into women's psyche, very supportive and protective and very easy to fall in love with. The warm relationship between father and daughter will melt anyone's heart. The tale is not complete without a deranged villain but Holmes and Watson save the day! Very enjoyable read with two more couples, ergo, two more books to look forward to!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sandra R · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pretty entertaining historical, set in Victorian England. It has steamy romance scenes with some fun, drama and then action near the end. I zoned out in a few sections when our heroine was explaining her interests - and in the museum. There were a few small inserts from other characters points of view apart from the H/h, and I thought they enhanced the story.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its official, I am in love with Lauren Smith's mind!!!

I cannot describe how much I adore this book, it practically devoured it in one sitting. I've always loved everything of hers that I have read before but this quickly became my favourite. Even surpassing her beautiful epic, The Wartime Matchmakers.

This is a wonderful late Victorian era Historical Romance with the most enchanting female main character, Elise Hamblin who is an inquisitive, confident scientist who, along with her female friends, are part of the Society for Rebellious Ladies. A society for like minded women who want to seek out all the knowledge of the world and learn new skills which the oppressive patriarchy of the time has excluded them from.

Throw in a wager with the famous Sherlock Holmes (I absolutely love Smith's take on Holmes and Watson) and Elise finds she must prove she understands men, but not just any man, enter Prospero Harrington, recently returned exile from France due to a scandalous duel 12 years earlier and now the new though impoverished Earl of March. What follows is a delicious blossoming friendship as Elise sets out the parameters of her study to Prospero who agrees to be her subject and schools her the way men act and think.

I love this pair so much, it is a wonderful exploration of a woman following her own dreams and desires and a man never seeking to hold her back or take control but merely be by her side and protect her against the dragons at her back. Prospero is the greenest of green flags and quite easily the swooniest of main male characters I have read in a very long time. A man who is not threatened by an independent woman, simply entranced by her and wanting to do everything he can to comfort her and help her be who she wants to be. It is a lovely refreshing take in a genre that usually

There is exquisite banter, tantalising chemistry, heart-melting warmth and an explosive action packed finale which stealthily creeps up on you out of nowhere. I could not put it down, I just wanted it to go on forever.

I adored all the characters in this book, the rest of the Society of Rebellious Ladies (who I want to join) and Prospero's close friends Guy and Nicholas who never deserted him. Its just a wonderful world that I want to return to so I am eagerly awaiting the next one in the series.

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Naturalist And The Rogue

The book is a great start to the new series. The story is very well written, you really realise how much research has gone into it. I also really liked the philosophical approaches. The plot is sexy, amusing but also touching. Both the main characters and the supporting characters were very endearing and strong in their own way. Prospero and Elise were a perfect match. The chemistry between them was right from the beginning. I think every woman needs a sexy womanizer such as Prospero! I also loved the father-daughter relationship between Elise and her father who was loving and supportive.
As a huge fan of the League of Rogues, the book made me a little melancholy at times.
I am definitely looking forward to the next part of the series!

Elise is a naturalist and president of the Society of Rebellious Ladies, which was founded decades ago by the wives of the League of Rogues. She is loves her independence, enjoys dressing up as a man and conducts many scientific studies. When her surly and famous neighbor Sherlock Holmes disturbs a meeting with his violin music, she confronts him. But he offers her an interesting wager: if she can research and truly understand the primal nature of men, she will get his Stradivarius, if not, the society will have to move. However, the object of study must be Prospero Harrington, the new Earl of March, a man who is considered dangerous and a scandalous rogue.

Over a decade ago, Prospero was innocently challenged to an illegal duel in which his opponent met an unfortunate death. Prospero had to flee from England penniless and earned his living as a kept companion for wealthy widows.

When Prospero returns to England after the death of his father, he realises that his father has neglected and ruined the family estate, so he looks for a way to make money. He comes across Elise's decoy advert in the newspaper and applies for her study. Prospero is immediately fascinated by the intelligent, self-confident woman as well as the intimate nature of her study and agrees to take part…

If you love steamy historical romances with strong heroines and sexy womanizers, you will certainly enjoy this book!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[KelseyreadsHR · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Care and Feeding of Rogues is the first book in A Lady’s Guide to Rogues series.

I absolutely loved this book. It was written beautifully with reflection from both MC that left no doubt to what they were each feeling or thinking. I enjoyed the inner dialogue each MC had and how hard the hero falls for the heroine. They both feel so deeply and have had to build walls around them just to have made it this far in their lives. It was so poignant in how the heroine began experiencing so much of life she’d never thought about because it had always meant giving up every other part of her. The hero is immediately taken by the heroine’s joy in the natural world and listens and takes to heart the challenges she faces.

The heroine is a naturalist who has wagered to learn about gentlemen but specifically the hero. The hero is aware of being studied(not the wager) which leads to lots of honest conversations and close proximity.

There’s no third act breakup but the hero’s past does come back to haunt him. The heroine’s father is sweet and helped move the story along.

Overall, this was an absolutely wonderful story and helped set up the rest of the series.

There are five encounters, with most happening in the last quarter of the book. There’s quite a bit of space from the first encounter to the second so I was wondering for a bit but it picked up at the end and was delightfully steamy.

CW: there is on page reference to a parent dying and also on page violence.

I received an advance ebook via BookSirens. All opinions are my own.

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 5 out of 5]

With this author you can rely you’ll get a great story, and I did.

Elise is a curious and very intelligent young woman, with a quick wit and curious nature. She’s a naturalist, but she’s also rather naive.

Prospero is a down on his fortune Earl. Back to claim his birthright (and a rather large amount of debt, courtesy of his father!)

Needing a cash injection to set him on his way, we see Prospero accept a rather strange but intriguing ad. He’s to be followed/studied and observed doing his daily routine. A little strange granted, but the money will definitely come in handy. And the young lady is easy on the eye 😉

There is a spark of interest almost straight away, but both are going to ignore it (Elise isn’t going to give up her independence and Prospero is single minded in his pursuit of wealth to bring to his title!)

I loved the side characters, and I’m hoping they get a book at some point in this new series.

But there is also danger, and it could put Elise if not both of them in mortal danger! Will Prospero’s unconventional education abroad help them in their hour of need?

And the additional lure of Sherlock Holmes? Well I loved reading/watching anything about this infamous character.

This was a book that mixes fact with fiction. It tries to show us the ways of how women were treated and looked upon in this era! They weren’t suppose to have minds/opinions or even a voice!

A highly recommended read, it’s a fun read, with fast pacing and enough spice to keep you reading. And the danger just adds to this amazing story.

🦋

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get in buckle up and hold on! This is one of the most emotional, riveting humorous rollercoaster rides ever! Just when you think you know the end it’s another unexpected twist!

We have Elise Hamblin brilliant naturalist and totally unaware of her beauty and feminine wiles!

We have Prospero Harrington, Earl of March who has been away from England for over 12 years! He was involved in a duel with a madman and his guilt was never proven! The events were catastrophic and changed the trajectory of his very innocent life!

Prospero is definitely not proud of what he has done to survive but his education abroad is going to serve him well in the coming days!

Prospero and Elise meet as he has been selected in her study and observation of a gentleman in his manners, habits, and haunts!

There is a significant sum that is to be paid and the participant of said contest has already been decided!

Let the adventures and shenanigans begin! If you want to laugh, cry and cheer all in the same paragraph then this is for you!

My new book boyfriend is Prospero! There is some annoyance with Elise as she chooses to use her scientific mind at the oddest moments! I can’t wait to read the story of their two mutual friends on the road to their own HEA! Bravo! I could not put it down!!
I was given an ARC copy for my honest opinion!

[Florida Girl Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a fan of Lauren Smith and The Care and Feeding of Rogues is the start of her new series, A Lady Guide to Rogues: Book 1. The title of the series sounded interesting and the book's title hinted at a bluestocking Female Main Character. The plotline of the book is cleverly well written and includes a pair of surprising supporting characters, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson!
The Male Main Character is Prospero Harrington, who has returned to England to claim the Dukedom. He has a mysterious reputation and is unsure how the ton will accept his return. Elise is a Intelligent naturalist with a loving, supportive father who provided her with every educational opportunity beyond a normal young woman's education and allows her the freedom to follow her interests. Prospero and Elise's introduction is a result of a direct challenge/bet issued by Sherlock!
A murderous attempt on Prospero's life leads to a life or death decision that will impact them both. This story has humor, emotion, deep personal reflections and chemistry that sizzles.
I enjoyed every word of the book and the book give hints as to who the next books in the series will be featured! Read to find out for yourself!
I received an Advanced Readers Copy and am leaving my voluntarily review based solely on my reading experience!

[Deborah Durand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fortune Favors Prospero

Smith pens another compelling romance at which she excels. The author draws us into this novel with a superficial parallel between The Tempest’s Prospero and Prospero Harrington. Each has been driven from their country by betrayal and the story begins 12 years later. The MFC is Elise Hamblin, a 26 y/o young woman who spends her time in a Society for Rebellious Ladies right next door to Sherlock Holmes. After being tortured by a cacophony from his Stradivarius, Elise enters 221 Baker Street and insults his musical talent. He promptly challenges her to make a study of men since she is a scientist by nature, and if he agrees with her two week analysis….he will relinquish his violin. The catch is that the subject has to be the new Earl of March, Prospero.
When Elise finally meets Prospero, she is enthralled by his attractiveness and he likewise by her boldness, honesty and beauty. I will not spoil the story with any further details. Readers will be entertained by the storyline, the ancillary characters, a reference to a historical Parisian artist, and the atmosphere of romance. Enjoy the story of an independent woman striving for her place in the world of men, while she studies a man who’s made a living abroad pleasing woman. And will Holmes keep his violin? This is a five star 🌟 read.

[Nazmin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Care and Feeding of Rogues is the first book in Laren Smith’s ‘A Lady’s Guide’ series.
The premise is unusual. The hero, Prospero, has spent the last 12 years in exile following a duel gone wrong. Despite being innocent, he had to flee. The heroine is a scientist, Elise Hamblin, who is neighbours with Sherlock Holmes. She accepts a wager with Holmes to make a study of the primal nature of men – but the man in question is Prospero. He is now back to claim his title as the Earl of March but is in desperate need of funds. Elise makes a deal with Prospero and proceeds to follow him about his daily life [donning a male disguise when necessary]. But their bourgeoning friendship and attraction to each other is put at risk by a threat from Prospero’s past.
I like Lauren Smith’s writing and this book was enjoyable. Elise is very clever, sweet and sometimes naïve. Prospero was a honourable and worthy hero.
I liked the nod to the heroines from Lauren’s League of Rogues series with Elise being a member of ‘The Society of Rebellious Ladies’.
This was a very good series starter and I am looking forward to the next book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Auriette · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Care and Feeding of Rogues" is funny, thought-provoking, and a real tearjerker.

Eloise Hamblin, the heroine, is intelligent, opinionated, and determined that she will never be the property of a man. She's also annoyed with her neighbor and the screeching of his violin. When she confronts said neighbor, he makes a bet with her, that she can't fully understand men, and in particular one man, Prospero Harrington, the new Earl of March.

Prospero is returning to England after a long self-imposed exile. Abandoned by his family, he had to find a way to earn a living, and what he did gave him the opportunity to study a variety of women, up close and personal. Eloise doesn't know any of that when she arranges to hire the impoverished earl for a "scientific study."

Eloise and Prospero are good people, who take joy in learning about each other and the world around them. Just as they finally realize and accept their love, together they will face a life-threatening attack and a tremendous personal loss.

This is a spicy Victorian romance with heart and science at the core. Highly recommended!

I received an advance review copy at no charge; all opinions expressed here are my own.

[Carissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This starter for a new series was actually quite entertaining. Elise takes on a wager from The Sherlock Holmes and learns about the Primal Nature of Men and actually disguises herself as one at times and takes onto Prospero Harrington who has returned from exile past 12 years to claim the title of Earl of March and in which his father has also left his house in debts. For Prospero to get out of that mess he answers Elise’s ad and helps her out. I love the science, humor and mystery in this one.

Looks like all main characters are also introduced for the series throughout of what I believe are connected standalones with Elise/Prospero, Cinna/Guy and Edwina/Nicholas! Prosperos best guy friends are falling for Elise’s best girlfriends and since we saw a glimpse of their interactions so sounds like it will be fun. The ending especially sets up a little bit of the next one and man I don’t want to have to wait too long (sad face).

I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

[Trinnia Greenlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A truly wonderful if unbelievable story at times. A bet between Elise the (h) and Sherlock Holmes precedes the wonderful match between Prospero the (H) and Elise. She is a forward thinking female in the time that women were thought of as empty-headed brood mares and he is a man with a tortured past, but knows how women think and what they need. Together these two forge a future through trust and allowing each to be their own person. A great storyline, but sometimes a little too much talking on the Hero's point of view, I couldn't help rolling my eyes. The plot is a good one, with a crazy villain and some unexpected twists that kept me reading straight through the night. The love scenes are steamy and the book is a page-turner with a wonderful epilogue to tie things together.

The reason for the 4.5* instead of a 5* is too much dialogue and some things just weren't believable to me, to modern. All in all I enjoyed the book and I think you will too.

TG

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely out of the ordinary, Miss Elise Hamblin wasn't a wealthy young woman looking for a husband. Already well into her years, this Miss treasured her independence and thirst for knowledge above all else. Prospero Harrington had experienced enough ups and downs in life to recognize what he no longer wanted to do, and necessity is the mother of invention, so… A surprising change of fortune for this hero with a personality that seemed like a dream come true. I really liked the Earl of March and how Elise broadened his worldview so much. This story captivated me with its stimulating plot, the heroine's personality, the novelistic characters, the romance, the unhinged villains, the informative passages, and a suspense that kept me waiting for something bad to happen. Several of the secondary characters intrigued me. They added to the plot and made me eager to read their stories soon. I love it when historical romances are full of mystery, suspense, and unusual situations, and I thoroughly enjoyed this story.

[Smadma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This starts out with Prospero Harrington fleeing England after participating in an illegal dual where his opponent ends up dying. Fast forward 12 years to when Prospero’s father passes away and Prospero returns to take over as the Earl of March. Few believe in his innocence as he returns and tries to find a way to rebuild everything his father has lost/destroyed. Desperate for money he agrees to be part of a study of men. Lucky for him, the naturalist running the study is Elise Hamblin, a brilliant naturalist. This story follows the interactions of these two characters and throws in a deranged madman out for revenge to keep it all lively. There are even a few scenes with Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson; so if you enjoy stories with a strong, intelligent female lead, a man who isn’t afraid of intelligent women, a few chuckles and possibly tears, then this is a story for you.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[AnnMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed The Care and Feeding of Rogues. I especially love that Sherlock Holmes and Watson play a part in the story in a quite novel way.

The budding friendship, leading towards a relationship between Elise Hamblin and Earl of March, Prospero Harrington was unlike any I had read before. It was unique because of Elise making a bet with Sherlock, fun, because Elise often dons a male costume to be able to go to all-men establishments with Prospero, and exciting because of the people that want revenge on Prospero. It was also heartwarming as Elise and Prospero realised that perhaps they should change their minds about what they believe the future holds for them.

Their story engrossed me from the first page. I was fully committed to their trials and tribulations and even worried about them regarding Prospero dealing with his enemies. There wasn't a dull moment in the story and I couldn't read it quickly enough to see what happened next.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a way to start a new series! An earl returning from exile, a secret Society of Rebellious women, and Sherlock Holmes all come together in a fast-paced story that is hard to put down. Elise Hamblin is a member of the Society and a brilliant naturalist. Living next door to the Society is the celebrated detective, Sherlock Holmes. Elise and Holmes enjoy irritating each other. He claims she does not understand men, and issues a challenge, a scientific study of the nature of men, and Holmes has a man in mind – Prospero Harrington, the new Earl of March. The earl agrees and the two of them charge into the study. This is a wonderful exciting story filled with emotion, action, secrets, betrayal, danger, bickering, twists, turns, adventure, and a sizzling romance. The characters are awesome, the good and the bad. A great read. I look forward to more stories in the series.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSirens and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful blend of romance, adventure, and intrigue. The story introduces Elise Hamblin, a determined scientist who embarks on a fascinating experiment by studying the infamous Earl of March, Prospero Harrington. Disguised as a man, she immerses herself in the dangerous world of the earl. The chemistry between Elise and Prospero is electric, and their evolving relationship, fueled by adventure and vulnerability, is both heartwarming and thrilling.
The story is well-written, weaving together suspense, romance, and interesting characters, all with a good dose of wit and charm. Prospero's transformation from a rogue to a man of honor was wonderful to see, and Elise’s intellectual curiosity adds a unique twist to the traditional love story. An engaging read with a touch of intrigue and a guaranteed happily-ever-after!
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[iread · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Care and Feeding of Rogues is book one in A Lady’s Guide series. This book was so unique and fascinating. I loved the way the author wove real people and fictional characters of the era together into a seamless story. Prospero Harrington has a wonderfully developed personality. There are layers and complexities to his character that I didn’t expect. The heroine Elise Hamblin is the head of a secret women’s group called The Society of Rebellious Ladies. I thought the author did a masterful job of painting an accurate picture of the restrictions on women during the Victorian age. Elise and her friends only want the freedom to pursue knowledge of their worlds without society’s condemnation. There are many steamy scenes in this story, so grab a fan. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.

[Kate Abbott · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book was a pleasant surprise. I accepted this arc without reading the blurb as I liked a previous book by the author. I was a little worried when at the beginning I came across Holmes and Watson in the story, as I don't like other authors characters turning up in books but glad I continued reading, as they are written respectfully and do not distract from the story. The heroine was a delight with her independence, ideas and innocence. Prospero had such a past drifting with no purpose. Two people who end up learning so much about each other and themselves, end up facing a danger from his past. Will they both survive. There is a lovely twist in the story that increases the emotion levels. This book is a steamy read and I cant wait for her friend's stories.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review

[Sonia]

This book managed to be an entertaining read despite the feminist theme. Scientifically minded Elise made a wager which involved her studying the handsome Earl of March. Even though she wasn't looking for marriage, circumstances forced her to reconsider when Prospero asked for her hand.

I enjoyed Prospero as the hero even though I had to roll my eyes whenever he made an impassioned speech about womankind.

I was pleasantly surprised to see that this book borrowed the characters of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. I imagine that they will be appearing in future books as well. Their presence definitely added to the story.

This book had lots of action and plenty of steam. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment. I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.

[SH · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elise Hamblin is determined to win a wager with her next-door neighbour, Sherlock Holme, so she decides to study primal nature of men. Sherlock has chosen Prospero Harrington, the Earl of March, a man with a scandalous and dangerous reputation. Prospero has returned from exile to claim the title of Earl of March, having fled to Paris twelve years earlier. Desperate to secure his future, he agrees to Elise’s unusual proposal. Disguised as a man, Elise will follow Prospero about London, to uncover more about the nature of men. Yet when tragedy strikes, Elise and Prospero must join forces, if there is to a chance of a life together.
I enjoyed the romance between these two characters. Elise is so innocent but yet so clever whilst Prospero is an honourable man striving to overcome his checkered past. The secondary characters also added another dimension to this delightful romance.

[Maria Rivas-mc · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the premise of The Care and Feeding of Rogues, including having Sherlock Holmes as a key character in the book. Holmes is the trigger for our heroine and hero to meet, ostensibly as part of a wager and a social science experiment.

It also presents the opportunity for the author, Lauren Smith, to reference the inequalities under which women in the late 19th century had to live. Mind you, there are places (some in the so-called First World) that are today actively seeking to turn back the clock and undermine any strides made.

Prospero Harrington is actually a quite likable character; Elise is interesting but at times the historical message of women’s rights seems to overwhelm the romance.

Overall, a good read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Pat Robinson]

Prospero lost it all. Elise doesn’t want anything but her freedom. When Sherlock Holmes ( yes-that one) pushes them together, what comes of it is a wonderfully weaved tale of learning , listening and loving. I was enamored with all the little details that the author used in watching “ the little naturalist” share her smarts. I adored Prospero’s heart of gold and his willingness to allow Elise to truly be herself. The climax was exciting, to say the least, and seeing the woman who started it all tell them why was so satisfying. I absolutely LOVED the surprise when Elise and Prospero got home: DID NOT see that coming! This was an intelligent, well plotted and wonderful characters to fall in love with!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.