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Bradwell Brothers #2
Een dwarse bruid (De Bradwells Book 2)
In ‘Een dwarse bruid’ van Kasey Stockton besluit Thea onder een valse naam een baan als keukenmeisje aan te nemen, om de avances van een begerige graaf te ontvluchten. Maar het werk blijkt zwaarder dan verwacht. Gelukkig dient zich de mogelijkheid aan terug te keren naar haar oude, comfortabele leventje.
De uitnodiging komt echter van niemand minder dan Benedict, de man die ze al sinds haar jeugd niet kan luchten of zien. Maar naarmate de twee meer tijd met elkaar doorbrengen, verdwijnt de wederzijdse afkeer en beginnen ze zich af te waar is het eigenlijk misgegaan?
De uitnodiging komt echter van niemand minder dan Benedict, de man die ze al sinds haar jeugd niet kan luchten of zien. Maar naarmate de twee meer tijd met elkaar doorbrengen, verdwijnt de wederzijdse afkeer en beginnen ze zich af te waar is het eigenlijk misgegaan?
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2022
533 people are currently reading
700 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 282 reviews
June 20, 2023
“No one will be falling in love with me tonight, Benedict.” He stepped forward, his eyes dark and glittering. “One man already has.”
September 15, 2022
I have been so excited to read Thea and Benedict's story after the nature of their relationship was hinted at during the first book. And let me tell you this did not disappoint! I loved every moment of it. All of their interactions, frustrations, struggles, ups and downs, humorous scraps they found themselves in, the sweet and tender moments and much more kept me wanting more and more!
Thea just wants to be free to make her own choices and be in charge of her life. She's stubborn, fiesty when needed, strong, independent, caring, full of compassion and hopes for a life of love and hard work. Benedict is just in her way. He contradicts everything she says, laughs at her, can't not comment, constantly shares his opinion. These two can hardly be in the same room without sparing verbally.
Oh, it was so much fun! Some misunderstandings need to be cleared up and they just need to be able to talk without taking offense and then there might just be some sparks.
The tension between these two is so well written. And it's clean and fun and flirty and sweet and tender all at the same time. I can't not pick up a book by Kasey Stockton and be completely pulled into the story. So much so that I stay up late reading it needing to know what is going to happen next and how is everything going to be resolved. And will that little touch of her/his hand be what brings awareness of each other, or will the longing stare across the room make their hearts beat faster? I was very satisfied with how these two interacted and moved forward in their story. A must read for sweet regency romance fans!
Content: Clean. No language or explicit scenes. I can always count on Kasey Stockton to write a book that I know I can happily share with my teenagers, their friends and my friends!!!
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Thea just wants to be free to make her own choices and be in charge of her life. She's stubborn, fiesty when needed, strong, independent, caring, full of compassion and hopes for a life of love and hard work. Benedict is just in her way. He contradicts everything she says, laughs at her, can't not comment, constantly shares his opinion. These two can hardly be in the same room without sparing verbally.
Oh, it was so much fun! Some misunderstandings need to be cleared up and they just need to be able to talk without taking offense and then there might just be some sparks.
The tension between these two is so well written. And it's clean and fun and flirty and sweet and tender all at the same time. I can't not pick up a book by Kasey Stockton and be completely pulled into the story. So much so that I stay up late reading it needing to know what is going to happen next and how is everything going to be resolved. And will that little touch of her/his hand be what brings awareness of each other, or will the longing stare across the room make their hearts beat faster? I was very satisfied with how these two interacted and moved forward in their story. A must read for sweet regency romance fans!
Content: Clean. No language or explicit scenes. I can always count on Kasey Stockton to write a book that I know I can happily share with my teenagers, their friends and my friends!!!
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 23, 2022
Is there anything Kasey Stockton can't write? Every book that I read of hers I fall even more in love with her writing style.
After book 1 in this series I was highly anticipating book 2 (and let's be honest, I am anticipating book 3 just as much!!). I wasn't disappointed at all. Benedict was a real treat in this and I loved his banter with Thea. This is an enemies to more/forced proximity treat! There were so many great moments that had me laughing out loud. Both main characters exasperated me in the best sort of way and this entire book was a pleasure to read!
The romance in this one is TOP NOTCH and when everything wraps up you will be head over heels for this literary couple! Their romance is a complete trip and I wanted to be there every step of the way!
The final page that sets up book 3 will also have you starting your countdown for Henry's book the second you finish! Bring it on Kasey Stockton, because I am ready!!
Highly recommend this one, friends!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
After book 1 in this series I was highly anticipating book 2 (and let's be honest, I am anticipating book 3 just as much!!). I wasn't disappointed at all. Benedict was a real treat in this and I loved his banter with Thea. This is an enemies to more/forced proximity treat! There were so many great moments that had me laughing out loud. Both main characters exasperated me in the best sort of way and this entire book was a pleasure to read!
The romance in this one is TOP NOTCH and when everything wraps up you will be head over heels for this literary couple! Their romance is a complete trip and I wanted to be there every step of the way!
The final page that sets up book 3 will also have you starting your countdown for Henry's book the second you finish! Bring it on Kasey Stockton, because I am ready!!
Highly recommend this one, friends!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
October 6, 2022
This must be the first romance novel I have read where I do NOT cheer for the relationship. Spoilers ahead, so beware.
Thea was extremely unlikable. She was rude, ridiculously insecure, stubborn, unfair, and super judgemental. She also never changed. She didn't grow as a character. It was honestly difficult to see how Benedict was so in love with her.
Benedict was amazing from the start. He was perfectly charming and a wonderful hero. All the "issues" they had were instigated by Thea, she was always the agressor and none of the "bad behavior" she accused Ben of was even bad. I actually hoped that Ben would have thrown her to the curb by the end, honestly.
Thea had some extreme issues to work through. Always accusing Ben of being exactly like her father for no reason at all, saying he was a huge flirt and would become an adulterer etc... Gross. She was jealous of him even smiling at other women. Let's be serious, if Ben had been written the way Thea was written, we'd be up in arms and pointing out how abusive, insecure, and full of red flags Ben was. But because it's a female character, she gets away with it and gets her happy ending. Nah, son.
In real life, Benedict marrying Thea would end up being miserable. Like I said, Thea never grew as a character. She basically realized her dad was a cheater all along and was like "oops my bad teehee." But she was always jealous, petty, insecure, and rude. Imagine being jealous that your partner smiles at other women. That if he goes out, your first thought is that he's out sleeping around. That you could never trust him at all... That was Thea. That IS Thea. And in real life, she would have made them both miserable.
What an awful book. Benedict was too good for her and by the end, I wanted him to grow a back bone, have some respect for himself, and just move on from Thea forever.
First book I read from this author and not sure I want to read any more from her. However, I was enchanted by Henry and so I want to read his story. Maybe.
Thea was extremely unlikable. She was rude, ridiculously insecure, stubborn, unfair, and super judgemental. She also never changed. She didn't grow as a character. It was honestly difficult to see how Benedict was so in love with her.
Benedict was amazing from the start. He was perfectly charming and a wonderful hero. All the "issues" they had were instigated by Thea, she was always the agressor and none of the "bad behavior" she accused Ben of was even bad. I actually hoped that Ben would have thrown her to the curb by the end, honestly.
Thea had some extreme issues to work through. Always accusing Ben of being exactly like her father for no reason at all, saying he was a huge flirt and would become an adulterer etc... Gross. She was jealous of him even smiling at other women. Let's be serious, if Ben had been written the way Thea was written, we'd be up in arms and pointing out how abusive, insecure, and full of red flags Ben was. But because it's a female character, she gets away with it and gets her happy ending. Nah, son.
In real life, Benedict marrying Thea would end up being miserable. Like I said, Thea never grew as a character. She basically realized her dad was a cheater all along and was like "oops my bad teehee." But she was always jealous, petty, insecure, and rude. Imagine being jealous that your partner smiles at other women. That if he goes out, your first thought is that he's out sleeping around. That you could never trust him at all... That was Thea. That IS Thea. And in real life, she would have made them both miserable.
What an awful book. Benedict was too good for her and by the end, I wanted him to grow a back bone, have some respect for himself, and just move on from Thea forever.
First book I read from this author and not sure I want to read any more from her. However, I was enchanted by Henry and so I want to read his story. Maybe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2022
Dorothea Northcott has spent the last few months working in various positions in order to hide from her chaperones for the upcoming Season. She manages quite well until Benedict Bradwell happens upon her in the garden, and not even a face covered in flour can hide her identity from the loathsome flirt.
After months of searching, Benedict Bradwell has finally located his mother's goddaughter. Now if he can just get her home without adding scandal to both their names...and without losing more than his patience to the beautiful woman...who happens to be dressed as a man at present.
The return trip puts both their hearts to the test, and in the weeks that follow, Ben turns from enemy to friend. But Thea has no desire to lose her heart to the man a second time, nor to any gentleman of the ton, and she refuses to tear down her walls...at least not willingly. Undeterred, Benedict's determination may break her fortress completely.
Such a sweet book! I was really looking forward to Ben and Thea's story, and as always, Kasey delivers. I loved this frenemies to lovers tale. I could sense their connection the moment the two of them reunited. Their banter on the trip home was SO fun and adorable, but I really enjoyed the continued tension between them as they fell more and more in love with each other. Thea brings a lot of past trauma to the table, and her mistrust of the flirtatious Benedict is understandable. But never fear, Ben eventually realizes his flaws, and so does Thea, giving them both well rounded growth. Kasey always does a fantastic job of making both POVs believable, and this book is no exception. Highly recommend!
After months of searching, Benedict Bradwell has finally located his mother's goddaughter. Now if he can just get her home without adding scandal to both their names...and without losing more than his patience to the beautiful woman...who happens to be dressed as a man at present.
The return trip puts both their hearts to the test, and in the weeks that follow, Ben turns from enemy to friend. But Thea has no desire to lose her heart to the man a second time, nor to any gentleman of the ton, and she refuses to tear down her walls...at least not willingly. Undeterred, Benedict's determination may break her fortress completely.
Such a sweet book! I was really looking forward to Ben and Thea's story, and as always, Kasey delivers. I loved this frenemies to lovers tale. I could sense their connection the moment the two of them reunited. Their banter on the trip home was SO fun and adorable, but I really enjoyed the continued tension between them as they fell more and more in love with each other. Thea brings a lot of past trauma to the table, and her mistrust of the flirtatious Benedict is understandable. But never fear, Ben eventually realizes his flaws, and so does Thea, giving them both well rounded growth. Kasey always does a fantastic job of making both POVs believable, and this book is no exception. Highly recommend!
March 24, 2023
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
Such a sweet story! I love the banter and fighting between Thea and Benedict. Their chemistry was undeniable. Thea's story was a little heartbreaking with the discovery of her father's indiscretions. 💔 However, she gets a sweet surprise and falls in love. Very romantic, clean, beautiful romance. Kasey Stockton is becoming a favorite!
Such a sweet story! I love the banter and fighting between Thea and Benedict. Their chemistry was undeniable. Thea's story was a little heartbreaking with the discovery of her father's indiscretions. 💔 However, she gets a sweet surprise and falls in love. Very romantic, clean, beautiful romance. Kasey Stockton is becoming a favorite!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2022
I am a huge Kasey Stockton fan and I am loving this new series. I loved the first book and wondered if this one would measure up. I wasn’t so sure about Thea and Benedict in book 1. By the end of this book they earned their place as one of my favorite literary couples.
I love how Kasey slowly allows us into the heart and minds of these characters and allowed me to understand them and fall in love with them. So many great swoony and funny moments between them.
Benedict is surprisingly devoted and determined when it came to Thea and I absolutely love those qualities in a character. Thea is confident in what she wants and willing to sacrifice to follow her heart and find the type of life that will make her happy. She’s strong and forgiving, but knows how to put up needed boundaries. My favorite part was when Thea learned the extent Benedict had sacrificed for her.
Do not miss this book or this series. I am highly anticipating Henry’s book! He is just so lovable and relatable. I mean? Who wouldn’t prefer books over a big party? He’s my kind of guy.
I love how Kasey slowly allows us into the heart and minds of these characters and allowed me to understand them and fall in love with them. So many great swoony and funny moments between them.
Benedict is surprisingly devoted and determined when it came to Thea and I absolutely love those qualities in a character. Thea is confident in what she wants and willing to sacrifice to follow her heart and find the type of life that will make her happy. She’s strong and forgiving, but knows how to put up needed boundaries. My favorite part was when Thea learned the extent Benedict had sacrificed for her.
Do not miss this book or this series. I am highly anticipating Henry’s book! He is just so lovable and relatable. I mean? Who wouldn’t prefer books over a big party? He’s my kind of guy.
August 30, 2024
Oh, those lovable Bradwell Brothers…
Be still my heart, but oh the romance. Benedict is such a wonderful manly man. The love story was engaging and I was happy that the perverted creepy cousin, was treated exactly as he deserved. Well done, on another story.
Be still my heart, but oh the romance. Benedict is such a wonderful manly man. The love story was engaging and I was happy that the perverted creepy cousin, was treated exactly as he deserved. Well done, on another story.
September 8, 2022
‘Pleasantly Pursued’ by Kasey Stockton is an amazing enemies to lovers story that really pulled me in! This book took me on quite a journey and I loved getting to know Thea and Benedict! I have completely fallen head over heels in love with the Bradwell family and I feel fully invested in their fictional lives!
This book starts where we last see Benedict in ‘Sensibly Wed’, searching for runaway Thea, and runaway Thea not wanting to be found.
I really enjoyed the confident and flirty Benedict v.s. the stubborn and fiery Thea. These two are so competitive and entertaining together!!! I loved the fun situations they were put in, and I loved getting a glimpse into their past memories.
🤍The witty teasing, sometimes fiery banter, attraction and chemistry between these two was amazing! The tension between them was palpable!
🤍How does one bed trope, close proximity, enemies to lovers sound! Yes please! I loved the dual point of view too!
🤍Memorable moments included a chicken expert, tomatoes, and many deals, wagers and truces.
I was so happy to be back at Chelton Manor with the Bradwell family! I loved the family involvement and relationships in this book! I squealed with joy seeing James and Felicity again, and I loved getting to know Henry better! His story is next and I cannot wait!!!!
Once again, Kasey Stockton has written a beautiful book that I love! This family has a special place in my heart and I loved reading Thea and Ben’s journey to happiness! If you enjoy enemies to lovers, and a sweet healing love story, then you’ll enjoy this book!
Thank you to the author for an arc copy of this book. All opinions are my own!
Content: infidelity in a marriage, a mistress
This book starts where we last see Benedict in ‘Sensibly Wed’, searching for runaway Thea, and runaway Thea not wanting to be found.
I really enjoyed the confident and flirty Benedict v.s. the stubborn and fiery Thea. These two are so competitive and entertaining together!!! I loved the fun situations they were put in, and I loved getting a glimpse into their past memories.
🤍The witty teasing, sometimes fiery banter, attraction and chemistry between these two was amazing! The tension between them was palpable!
🤍How does one bed trope, close proximity, enemies to lovers sound! Yes please! I loved the dual point of view too!
🤍Memorable moments included a chicken expert, tomatoes, and many deals, wagers and truces.
I was so happy to be back at Chelton Manor with the Bradwell family! I loved the family involvement and relationships in this book! I squealed with joy seeing James and Felicity again, and I loved getting to know Henry better! His story is next and I cannot wait!!!!
Once again, Kasey Stockton has written a beautiful book that I love! This family has a special place in my heart and I loved reading Thea and Ben’s journey to happiness! If you enjoy enemies to lovers, and a sweet healing love story, then you’ll enjoy this book!
Thank you to the author for an arc copy of this book. All opinions are my own!
Content: infidelity in a marriage, a mistress
March 11, 2024
LOVED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I just have no complaints about this. Listening to it was wonderful. I adore dual POV narration and it was narrated fantastically. This is probably my favorite of the series right now. I loooved the way that Benedict truly kept pursuing Thea. It was sweet and fiery. I couldn’t get enough of him telling her that she was going to end up with him. It just WORKED. The enemies to lovers vibes hit perfectly, the banter had me swooning and I was in love with all of it.
There were even more tropes that are easily favorites of mine: one bed (but still sweet!) and ALL the forced proximity. Benedict never gave up and Thea started to truly realize her worth. I really enjoyed her journey and the love from those around her to help buoy Thea up and see the potential she already possesses.
It’s charming and full of delight. Must read for regency fans.
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of parents
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I just have no complaints about this. Listening to it was wonderful. I adore dual POV narration and it was narrated fantastically. This is probably my favorite of the series right now. I loooved the way that Benedict truly kept pursuing Thea. It was sweet and fiery. I couldn’t get enough of him telling her that she was going to end up with him. It just WORKED. The enemies to lovers vibes hit perfectly, the banter had me swooning and I was in love with all of it.
There were even more tropes that are easily favorites of mine: one bed (but still sweet!) and ALL the forced proximity. Benedict never gave up and Thea started to truly realize her worth. I really enjoyed her journey and the love from those around her to help buoy Thea up and see the potential she already possesses.
It’s charming and full of delight. Must read for regency fans.
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of parents
September 14, 2023
Ben and Thea are such wonderful characters! This is an “enemies” to lovers story. Thea actually likes Ben but when they were younger he flirted with her and another girl leaving him untrustworthy and deemed a flirt. She will not have anything to do with a flirt. Thea runs away from Lord Claverly after he made some unwelcome advances(touched her ribbon). Ben’s mother and Thea’s Godmother is concerned for her whereabouts so Ben go searching for her for months! He finds her in the kitchens as a maid hours away from home. He convinces her to come back to their house (he lives with his mother, brothers, and sister-in-law) and he will not make her go back to Lord Claverlys home. She agrees but there is one problem, no chaperone for the trip back. They decide to have Thea disguised as a man. (I thought this a fun element) This way there is no danger to their reputations. Along the way they have to stop at inns, where lo and behold there is only one bed available. And I know what you “only one bed” trope haters are thinking(I was thinking the same), oh no not the only one bed thing. Have no fear, it was realistic and not stupid or sexual. Not “oh no what are we going to do?” They were realistic about it, so it was great. After they get back home they call a truce to their “enemy” relationship. Thea calls attention to Bens flirting with every woman being a problem. He doesn’t realize that is a problem at first. Thea discovers a secret from her fathers past. I will wrap up here to try and not give anymore away. I loved the character development. I loved Thea and Ben’s relationship. So many great moments. Clean read and great story! Definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 19, 2025
This story and the narration of the audiobook are truly a delight! I adored Thea and Benedict with their stubborn, bantering, reluctant fall into love. The unique start to the story provided situations I’ve never encountered in a regency read and I loved every bit of how it played out. I also loved both of the character arcs and how everything came together in the end. I am just loving the Bradwell family!
TW: Fear of Sexual Assault, Parental Infidelity (past)
TW: Fear of Sexual Assault, Parental Infidelity (past)
September 6, 2022
I've been anxious for this story. I love a good enemies to lovers story and I knew from the moment Thea and Benedict's dislike for each other was mentioned in the previous story that there was more to their story. Thea may be naive, but she is independent. I loved her spirit. Benedict is a wonderful character. I love the care he gives Thea even when they are arguing. This was a wonderful story with plenty of angst. I am really excited for Henry's story next.
March 5, 2025
This Bradwell series is quite entertaining! I wanted to slap Thea more than a few times; however, I did love the unfolding of the story.
September 23, 2022
What's better than an enemies to lovers romance, you ask?
A regency enemies to lovers romance that includes forced proximity AND the one bed trope!
Benedict and Thea are all stubbornness and fire and angst and the only thing holding them back is the heavy emotional baggage that Thea is carrying around. It takes her a long while to come around, but thank goodness she does because those two have some serious chemistry between them.
And let's hear it for dual POV (which, imo, should be required in enemies to lovers romances). Loved the witty banter and back and forth between them as they both had to learn to trust and to change and to accept. Charming and delightful love story and I will definitely be back for Henry's book!
4.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
A regency enemies to lovers romance that includes forced proximity AND the one bed trope!
Benedict and Thea are all stubbornness and fire and angst and the only thing holding them back is the heavy emotional baggage that Thea is carrying around. It takes her a long while to come around, but thank goodness she does because those two have some serious chemistry between them.
And let's hear it for dual POV (which, imo, should be required in enemies to lovers romances). Loved the witty banter and back and forth between them as they both had to learn to trust and to change and to accept. Charming and delightful love story and I will definitely be back for Henry's book!
4.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
September 1, 2024
Oh, wat vond ik dit leuk. De punten die ik uit Een ongehoord huwelijk wat minder vond werden totaal overboord gegooid. De twee POV’s vulde dit boek goed aan waardoor er constant een progressie in het verhaal zat. Om dit een romance te noemen vind ik daarentegen net iets te ver gaan. De romantiek kwam pas veel later in het verhaal dan dat ik hoopte. Dit deel gaat veel meer om de connectie tussen beide personages en juist die connectie vond ik ontzettend leuk. Er zat iets wat avontuur in en een constante spanning, maar niet direct tot elkaar. Althans die miste ik soms.
Dit is dus een deel twee van een serie, maar dit boek is prima als standalone te lezen. Ik moet er wel bij zeggen dat ik het meer aanraad als serie! Waar je in dit boek meteen de familie Bradwell binnenvalt, was deel 1 (een ongehoord huwelijk) echt een inleiding in de familie. Dat ik eerst deel 1 heb gelezen zorgt er ook voor dat ik echt nu verliefd ben geworden op Henry (een van de andere Bradwell broers). Ik wil zijn verhaal nu ook graag horen!
Bedankt Kokboekencentrum Fictie voor het recensie exemplaar!
Dit is dus een deel twee van een serie, maar dit boek is prima als standalone te lezen. Ik moet er wel bij zeggen dat ik het meer aanraad als serie! Waar je in dit boek meteen de familie Bradwell binnenvalt, was deel 1 (een ongehoord huwelijk) echt een inleiding in de familie. Dat ik eerst deel 1 heb gelezen zorgt er ook voor dat ik echt nu verliefd ben geworden op Henry (een van de andere Bradwell broers). Ik wil zijn verhaal nu ook graag horen!
Bedankt Kokboekencentrum Fictie voor het recensie exemplaar!
August 23, 2024
Een dwarse bruid is echt een leuke opvolging van Een ongehoord huwelijk.
De spanning tussen Thea en Benedict is er gelijk vanaf het begin en bouwt zich op tot aan het einde. Iedere keer wanneer je denkt dat het Benedict eindelijk gaat lukken om haar hart te veroveren gebeurt er iets waardoor het weer niks wordt. Een heerlijke enemies to lovers met een prachtig einde. Felicity en James komen ook in het verhaal van Thea en Benedict terug, maar ook Henry die we ook al van boek 1 kennen. Als je Bridgerton leuk vind ga je deze boeken zeker ook heel leuk vinden. ik kan dan ook niet wachten op deel 3.
De spanning tussen Thea en Benedict is er gelijk vanaf het begin en bouwt zich op tot aan het einde. Iedere keer wanneer je denkt dat het Benedict eindelijk gaat lukken om haar hart te veroveren gebeurt er iets waardoor het weer niks wordt. Een heerlijke enemies to lovers met een prachtig einde. Felicity en James komen ook in het verhaal van Thea en Benedict terug, maar ook Henry die we ook al van boek 1 kennen. Als je Bridgerton leuk vind ga je deze boeken zeker ook heel leuk vinden. ik kan dan ook niet wachten op deel 3.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2024
The story is clean, despite undertones of sexual harassment and infidelity. The female MC comes across as a mixture between an entitled brat, a rude shrew, and an independent yet naive woman. The male MC is a walking oxymoron, with honor and flirtation making a disgusting cohabitation in his personality. I didn't quite believe the transformation in each of the characters, though I did appreciate the two different points of view throughout the story.
I listened to an audio recording narrated by Justine Eyre and Oliver Hunt. I really, really, really liked Oliver Hunt's performance! His voice is smooth, clear, perfectly paced, and elegantly delivered.
I listened to an audio recording narrated by Justine Eyre and Oliver Hunt. I really, really, really liked Oliver Hunt's performance! His voice is smooth, clear, perfectly paced, and elegantly delivered.
October 1, 2022
He goes looking for her at his Mother’s request
And where does he find her? WORKING as a kitchen maid!!!! He brings her home - and it is not easy staying overnight in a hotel and keeping her reputation safe. She likes him - but does not trust him as he is too much like her father. This is an amazing book and I totally loved it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
And where does he find her? WORKING as a kitchen maid!!!! He brings her home - and it is not easy staying overnight in a hotel and keeping her reputation safe. She likes him - but does not trust him as he is too much like her father. This is an amazing book and I totally loved it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
October 2, 2022
I don’t think I’m a fan of enemies to lovers tropes! This one stayed enemies for a very, very long time. The first book is my fav so far which is a marriage of convenience trope(I’m a huge fan of!). I’m waiting on Henry’s story!
July 16, 2024
Na het lezen van Een ongehoord huwelijk ben ik zo enthousiast dat ik echt uitkijk naar het tweede deel van deze grappige, leuke en unieke serie. Het vorige boek was zo leuk, dat ik echt meerdere malen hardop heb moeten lachen.Het vorige verhaal bevatte twee unieke en uitgesproken hoofdpersonages en het was vlot en levendig geschreven. Ik hoop dat Kasey Stockton deze schrijfstijl vasthoudt. Ik heb hoge verwachtingen van deel twee.
Thea is gevlucht uit het ouderlijke huis en besluit onder een valse naam een baan als keukenmeisje aan te nemen. Hierdoor hoopt ze de begerige avances van de graaf te ontvluchten. Het werk als keukenmeisje is alleen zwaarder dan ze had verwacht. Ze is ergens dan ook opgelucht als de mogelijkheid zich voordoet om terug te keren naar haar oude en comfortabele leventje. Wel komt deze uitnodiging van Benedict, de man waarmee ze vanaf haar jeugd al eeuwig kibbelt. Nu de twee noodgedwongen tijd met elkaar moeten doorbrengen verdwijnt de wederzijdse afkeer en stellen ze zichzelf de vraag: waar is het überhaupt ooit mis gegaan?
Wat een super leuk, origineel en sterk vervolg van de serie. Ook in dit deel wist de vlotte, levendige en eigen schrijfstijl van Kasey Stockton me weer direct te pakken. Het verhaal leest zo lekker weg, dat je de wereld om je heen compleet vergeet en op gaat in het leuke verhaal. Daarbij maakt haar ontzettend leuke humor het leuke verhaal helemaal compleet.
Aangezien het vorige deel zich afspeelt in 1817 in Londen, speelt dit verhaal zich net na de gebeurtenissen van deel één af. Ditmaal volgen we het verhaal van Thea, de zus van Felicity, waarover we het verhaal in deel één lazen en Benedict, ook een personage waar we al op de zijlijn iets van lazen in het vorige deel. Kasey Stockton weet beide personages, die ook weer compleet, uniek, verschillend en eigenzinnig zijn, erg goed weg te zetten. Met name de zelfstandige, zelfbewuste en mondige Thea vond ik echt direct een fantastisch personage naar mijn hart. Ik heb echt veelvuldig gelachen om haar capriolen en uitspraken. Benedict is een personage dat zich naarmate het verhaal vordert en zichzelf ontwikkelt, meer tot bloei komt en in zijn kracht komt.
Het verhaal begint op het moment dat Thea is ondergedoken en werkt onder een valse naam als keukenmeisje. Haar reden om tot deze actie te komen, roept al direct bewondering op voor haar handelen en kracht. Ondanks dat het een enemies-tot-lovers feelgood is, kan ik de manier waarop Thea en Benedict met elkaar kibbelen en elkaar nergens in het gelijk willen stellen op leuke en lachwekkende wijze gedaan. Het gaat niet op het gemene af, waardoor het een leuk en luchtig verhaal blijft waar je echt van geniet. Kasey Stockton weet de transformatie van de spanning tussen de personages prachtig neer te zetten en de knetterende vonkjes zijn als lezer ook echt te voelen. Daarbij is het ondanks dat het weer een compleet ander verhaal is dan deel één bevat het verhaal ontroerende, grappige, aangrijpende, schokkende en mooie gebeurtenissen waar ik geen genoeg van krijg. Ook dit verhaal wordt op geweldige wijze afgesloten.
Een dwarse bruid is een ontzettend mooi, leuk en origineel vervolg. Het is echt onwijs fijn en leuk geschreven met veel humor. De personages komen helemaal tot leven en daarbij zijn het twee unieke en uitgesproken personages die deze historische feelgood compleet op stelten weten te zetten. Het is echt een verhaal waarbij je als lezer de knetterende spanning tussen de personages voelt. Ofwel, het is een verhaal waar je geen genoeg van kan krijgen. Ik kijk nu al uit naar deel drie.
Thea is gevlucht uit het ouderlijke huis en besluit onder een valse naam een baan als keukenmeisje aan te nemen. Hierdoor hoopt ze de begerige avances van de graaf te ontvluchten. Het werk als keukenmeisje is alleen zwaarder dan ze had verwacht. Ze is ergens dan ook opgelucht als de mogelijkheid zich voordoet om terug te keren naar haar oude en comfortabele leventje. Wel komt deze uitnodiging van Benedict, de man waarmee ze vanaf haar jeugd al eeuwig kibbelt. Nu de twee noodgedwongen tijd met elkaar moeten doorbrengen verdwijnt de wederzijdse afkeer en stellen ze zichzelf de vraag: waar is het überhaupt ooit mis gegaan?
Wat een super leuk, origineel en sterk vervolg van de serie. Ook in dit deel wist de vlotte, levendige en eigen schrijfstijl van Kasey Stockton me weer direct te pakken. Het verhaal leest zo lekker weg, dat je de wereld om je heen compleet vergeet en op gaat in het leuke verhaal. Daarbij maakt haar ontzettend leuke humor het leuke verhaal helemaal compleet.
Aangezien het vorige deel zich afspeelt in 1817 in Londen, speelt dit verhaal zich net na de gebeurtenissen van deel één af. Ditmaal volgen we het verhaal van Thea, de zus van Felicity, waarover we het verhaal in deel één lazen en Benedict, ook een personage waar we al op de zijlijn iets van lazen in het vorige deel. Kasey Stockton weet beide personages, die ook weer compleet, uniek, verschillend en eigenzinnig zijn, erg goed weg te zetten. Met name de zelfstandige, zelfbewuste en mondige Thea vond ik echt direct een fantastisch personage naar mijn hart. Ik heb echt veelvuldig gelachen om haar capriolen en uitspraken. Benedict is een personage dat zich naarmate het verhaal vordert en zichzelf ontwikkelt, meer tot bloei komt en in zijn kracht komt.
Het verhaal begint op het moment dat Thea is ondergedoken en werkt onder een valse naam als keukenmeisje. Haar reden om tot deze actie te komen, roept al direct bewondering op voor haar handelen en kracht. Ondanks dat het een enemies-tot-lovers feelgood is, kan ik de manier waarop Thea en Benedict met elkaar kibbelen en elkaar nergens in het gelijk willen stellen op leuke en lachwekkende wijze gedaan. Het gaat niet op het gemene af, waardoor het een leuk en luchtig verhaal blijft waar je echt van geniet. Kasey Stockton weet de transformatie van de spanning tussen de personages prachtig neer te zetten en de knetterende vonkjes zijn als lezer ook echt te voelen. Daarbij is het ondanks dat het weer een compleet ander verhaal is dan deel één bevat het verhaal ontroerende, grappige, aangrijpende, schokkende en mooie gebeurtenissen waar ik geen genoeg van krijg. Ook dit verhaal wordt op geweldige wijze afgesloten.
Een dwarse bruid is een ontzettend mooi, leuk en origineel vervolg. Het is echt onwijs fijn en leuk geschreven met veel humor. De personages komen helemaal tot leven en daarbij zijn het twee unieke en uitgesproken personages die deze historische feelgood compleet op stelten weten te zetten. Het is echt een verhaal waarbij je als lezer de knetterende spanning tussen de personages voelt. Ofwel, het is een verhaal waar je geen genoeg van kan krijgen. Ik kijk nu al uit naar deel drie.
May 24, 2024
2.5 stars. This was okay. It was a little boring and mundane. I had to skim a lot. It is hard to make these types of novels set in older times interesting and exciting. When the love interests can’t ever really be alone together because of propriety it’s a struggle to feel immersed in a romance because the most that ever happens is like a light touch on the hand, a leg brushing up against the others leg at dinner, a few stolen conversations, etc. It’s just pretty lame. The two love interests in this do have an opportunity to be together alone for an extended length of time but it’s toward the beginning of the story so they aren’t romantically involved then at all. It is a slower burn sort of but the two have already known each other so they already have a history and she had already like Benedict.
The two main characters were fine. Nothing great or really original or interesting. I actually didn’t really like Thea as much because it felt like she was so mad at Benedict for being the way he was. Which, I can understand her being disappointed and a hurt, but for her to carry out this grudge against him for so many years seems harsh. You’d think she would have just accepted that that was just the way he was and then treat him like a friend or a brother. Because other than being a flirt he’s really nice and caring and stuff. So her hatred towards him seems irrational. Except then toward the end of the book we learn more specifics about what Benedict did exactly that caused Thea to feel really betrayed and now I don’t really like Benedict as her love interest haha. I wouldn’t hate him but yeah I can see why Thea wouldn’t want to be with him. But I wish the author would have revealed these details way sooner so we could see Thea’s side the whole time instead of having to wonder if her hatred was valid. It didn’t feel valid the whole time so it was hard to be on board with here until the end. But anyway yeah His love for her feels a little disingenuous after seeing how he is towards women and what he had said in the past and I never felt like he really proved that Thea was different and that he really loved her more than anyone else. The author did try to show it a tiny bit but it didn’t feel like enough. Again I think it’s hard to portray a really great romance when they can’t really have a romantic relationship because of propriety.
Anyway I think these types of books just aren’t for me anymore. I’m not content with the relationship consisting of just one kiss at the very end.
The two main characters were fine. Nothing great or really original or interesting. I actually didn’t really like Thea as much because it felt like she was so mad at Benedict for being the way he was. Which, I can understand her being disappointed and a hurt, but for her to carry out this grudge against him for so many years seems harsh. You’d think she would have just accepted that that was just the way he was and then treat him like a friend or a brother. Because other than being a flirt he’s really nice and caring and stuff. So her hatred towards him seems irrational. Except then toward the end of the book we learn more specifics about what Benedict did exactly that caused Thea to feel really betrayed and now I don’t really like Benedict as her love interest haha. I wouldn’t hate him but yeah I can see why Thea wouldn’t want to be with him. But I wish the author would have revealed these details way sooner so we could see Thea’s side the whole time instead of having to wonder if her hatred was valid. It didn’t feel valid the whole time so it was hard to be on board with here until the end. But anyway yeah His love for her feels a little disingenuous after seeing how he is towards women and what he had said in the past and I never felt like he really proved that Thea was different and that he really loved her more than anyone else. The author did try to show it a tiny bit but it didn’t feel like enough. Again I think it’s hard to portray a really great romance when they can’t really have a romantic relationship because of propriety.
Anyway I think these types of books just aren’t for me anymore. I’m not content with the relationship consisting of just one kiss at the very end.
August 27, 2022
Next up in the Bradwell brothers series is Benedict and Thea's story. A frenemies to lovers type of story. So I like Kasey's writing and her books, but I had a really, really tough time liking Thea. I thought she was grossly unfair to Benedict and extremely judgemental. She wants him one minute then she doesn't trust him cause he'd flirt with every woman. Her assumptions just really grated on me and I just wanted her to get a really good set down. I felt like she had an enormous amount of growing up to do and should probably stay single until she worked out her trust issues. I liked Benedict, but didn't really get what he saw in Thea, when he finally had enough, I was like, good, have some self respect man! I liked this book, but I felt like more time could have been spent on Thea's turn around and she could have used some deep introspection. I was provided an ARC by the author for an honest review.
October 17, 2023
Book 168 of 2023
This was another sweet book in the Bradwell series. At the end of book 1, we see Benedict head out to find Thea. While they are certainly at odds with one another, he knows how important it is to his mom to find Thea and bring her home, so he sets out determined to find her, no matter how long it takes.
I loved the slow morph from disliking each other to him falling first! No matter what they came up against, they always respected each other in their actions. The thing I’ve come to appreciate about this time period (specifically in this series) is their commitment to being people and characters of integrity, even if they don’t like one another.
Benedict & Thea are both mature and work through their own struggles before coming together as a couple at the end, which gave me faith that they’d be able to make it for the long haul. Overall, this has been a fun & light series to listen to!
Format: audiobook (hoopla - Avon library)
This was another sweet book in the Bradwell series. At the end of book 1, we see Benedict head out to find Thea. While they are certainly at odds with one another, he knows how important it is to his mom to find Thea and bring her home, so he sets out determined to find her, no matter how long it takes.
I loved the slow morph from disliking each other to him falling first! No matter what they came up against, they always respected each other in their actions. The thing I’ve come to appreciate about this time period (specifically in this series) is their commitment to being people and characters of integrity, even if they don’t like one another.
Benedict & Thea are both mature and work through their own struggles before coming together as a couple at the end, which gave me faith that they’d be able to make it for the long haul. Overall, this has been a fun & light series to listen to!
Format: audiobook (hoopla - Avon library)
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October 19, 2022Another winner in this series!
I am so happy we got Benedict's POV because it was needed.
It was missed in the previous book for sure.
Thea was lovely and I understood her plight.
The banter was fun.
The romance made me giddy.
Kinda bummed we have to wait until 2023 for Henry's story. I've loved him since Properly Kissed and while he didn't end up with Felicity, I need his HEA.
I am so happy we got Benedict's POV because it was needed.
It was missed in the previous book for sure.
Thea was lovely and I understood her plight.
The banter was fun.
The romance made me giddy.
Kinda bummed we have to wait until 2023 for Henry's story. I've loved him since Properly Kissed and while he didn't end up with Felicity, I need his HEA.
March 20, 2024
Another day, another round of "why in the world did it take me so long to read this book?!".....
Pleasantly Pursued has been on my TBR list for a while now, and I am so glad I finally read it! It is so good, y'all. So good. This book has everything you could ever want - a solid rivals to lovers romance, great banter, forced proximity, an inn with only one bed, an expert on chicken noises....what is there not to love here?
Thea and Benedict were the cutest. I loved their growth (both individually and as a couple) throughout this story. Watching them learn to trust each other and fall in love was so satisfying. I was so happy when everything worked out for them!
Moral of the story here is that y'all definitely need this book in your lives. So if it isn't on your TBR lists already put it there. Then read it and love it. This is the way.
Pleasantly Pursued has been on my TBR list for a while now, and I am so glad I finally read it! It is so good, y'all. So good. This book has everything you could ever want - a solid rivals to lovers romance, great banter, forced proximity, an inn with only one bed, an expert on chicken noises....what is there not to love here?
Thea and Benedict were the cutest. I loved their growth (both individually and as a couple) throughout this story. Watching them learn to trust each other and fall in love was so satisfying. I was so happy when everything worked out for them!
Moral of the story here is that y'all definitely need this book in your lives. So if it isn't on your TBR lists already put it there. Then read it and love it. This is the way.
September 12, 2022
This book was such a breath of fresh air in so many ways. I loved Thea’s character and how her view on life was so unique (she would rather marry a working-class man than a gentleman, *gasp* 😂). However, there were so many times I just wanted to slap some sense into her! Benedict was hilarious and witty, being able to keep up with Thea at every turn, while also being a bit naive at times and needing to change is own ways as much as Thea did.
This book had everything you could love with an enemies to lovers story, from the amazing banter to the realization that they want to fight FOR each other instead of just with each other 😍
This is the second novel in the Bradwell Brothers series. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the first novel and companion novella first!
Many thanks to the author for my ARC copy, all opinions are my own.
This book had everything you could love with an enemies to lovers story, from the amazing banter to the realization that they want to fight FOR each other instead of just with each other 😍
This is the second novel in the Bradwell Brothers series. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the first novel and companion novella first!
Many thanks to the author for my ARC copy, all opinions are my own.
September 15, 2022
Such a sweet and romantic story! I loved the banter between Thea and Benedict, and how devoted he was to her. I really loved Thea and her desire for a faithful marriage. Her insecurity when it comes to relationships/marriage felt realistic, and I loved that Benedict was willing to change his behavior (though fairly harmless, IMO) to help make Thea feel more secure in his love for her. I also loved seeing James and Felicity again, and I am really excited for Henry's story coming next year!
May 1, 2023
3.45
I enjoyed this one better than the first one, but still not enough to bump it up to 4 stars. The banter back and forth between hero and heroine was very entertaining, but honestly it lasted too long. I think the finale could have come 5 or more chapters earlier. In any case, I am still looking forward to Henry's story next.
I enjoyed this one better than the first one, but still not enough to bump it up to 4 stars. The banter back and forth between hero and heroine was very entertaining, but honestly it lasted too long. I think the finale could have come 5 or more chapters earlier. In any case, I am still looking forward to Henry's story next.
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