Every Rake Has A Silver Lining: A Regency Era Romance

by Trisha Messmer

No woman can resist his charms. Enter the ice queen.

Experience has taught Simon Beckham that love only leads to grief. Although he needs to marry someday and produce an heir, for now he prefers a fun dalliance. A smile, a wink, a pretty compliment, and women tumble into his bed willingly—except for one irritatingly attractive sharp-tongued harpy named Lady Charlotte Talbot.

Lady Charlotte Talbot does not suffer fools, particularly the buffoon Simon Beckham, with his handsome face and roguish grin. The man doesn’t have a serious bone in his all-too-tempting body. Although she has no intention of being leg-shackled to any man, when her brother attempts to foist an arranged marriage on her—to an abusive suitor no less—even that incorrigible rake Simon seems preferable

After the two are discovered in a compromising situation, they strike an agreement. A marriage of convenience saving Charlotte’s reputation in exchange for providing Simon an heir. Love isn’t part of the bargain.

But some deals are meant to be broken.

Genres: Historical Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Regency

394 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 18, 2024

About the author

Trisha Messmer always had an obsession with reading, starting at the tender age of four (or so her mother told her).

Finding some of the things she read lacking-or at least not ending the way she thought they should-she started making up her own stories. They lived within her vivid imagination for a long, long time until one day they broke free and put themselves on a page. Sometimes things really do take on a life of their own.She hopes you enjoy her musings as much as she enjoyed writing them, If they make you laugh, sigh, or even cry, she would love hearing about it. Sign up for her newsletter and receive free exclusive VIP content of supplemental material.

Contact her on Facebook or on her website.

Reviews

[S Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars
Just ok

[Leigh Stephanz · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sorry, but I disliked Charlotte too much to finish this book. I’m one of those people who needs to really like at least one of the main characters in a book,and I didn’t actually like either Charlotte or Simon. She was just so boring, priggish, and awful. He seemed nice, but also kind of clueless. I realized I didn’t care if they ended up HEA and stopped reading.

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Sunshine And Lady Grump

I loved this book! It's hilarious, but at the same time has its depths. The plot is very well written, with opposites attract, reverse grumpy-sunshine and marriage of convenience tropes, some twists, some steam, lots of laugh-out-loud moments, but also situations that can drive you to despair. I already knew the characters from the Hope Clinic series and the previous book. Simon is a cinnamon roll hero who is very lively, always in a good mood and charming. Charlotte is the complete opposite of him: serious, proper and rigid. At first it wasn't easy to like Charlotte's character, but the more you immerse yourself in the story, the more endearing she becomes and you come to understand why she has become the way she is. Naturally, sparks fly between them. The two really do have a communication problem, which leads to many misunderstandings and misinterpretations. I really enjoyed their witty banter and bickering and how both characters and their relationship developed as the story progressed.
And it was fun to meet some of the cast of characters from the previous books.

The book can be read as standalone but I recommend to start with the previous book of the series to understand the dynamics.

When her brother, the Marquess of Edgerton, wants to marry her off to a political ally, who is an abusive man, Lady Charlotte Talbot flees to her friend Honoria and her husband Drake, Duke of Burwood, only to find that their house is empty except for a sick, half-dressed Simon Beckham, her nemesis since Drake‘s house party last year.

Simon is Drake's best friend and his businessman. Since his time in India, he has suffered from repeated bouts of malaria. When he has another attack, he sends the staff away so as not to publicise his condition, especially not in the gossip paper „The Muckraker“.

Simon is anything but pleased when Charlotte suddenly appears on the doorstep, but he gives her refuge. But then her brother and her would-be fiancé surprise them in a compromising situation and Simon, although they despise each other, offers to Charlotte a marriage of convenience: she escapes her brother's machinations and in return he gets the heir he needs, since it is uncertain how long he has left to live...

Overall, a very entertaining read that you will definitely enjoy!

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

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the “London Ladies League” series by Trisha Messmer. I was eager to read Simon and Lady Charlotte’s story, curious about their dynamic as two people who couldn't stand each other but felt there was something brewing between them.

Charlotte’s brother, Roland, has arranged her marriage to Lord Felix Davies, whom she detests. To escape, she flees to her friend Honoria’s home. Her friend and husband, Drake have left town and only Simon, his man of business is at home, ill with malaria. When her brother and Lord Felix arrive, Simon realizes her brother does not have Charlotte’s best interests in mind, so he proposes to save her from marrying Felix, and she accepts with conditions. This scene sets the stage for their tumultuous relationship.

Charlotte and Simon are hilariously mismatched. Charlotte is serious, intelligent, and strong, while Simon is carefree, fun-loving, and adored by everyone. Their frequent clashes had me doubting if they’d ever get along. Charlotte promises Honoria to give Simon a chance but struggles with his happy, humorous nature and is uncomfortable around his affectionate family. Simon, is deeply attracted to Charlotte, and tries hard to make their marriage work, despite her resistance.

I loved this story! Their journey is a whirlwind of emotions, highs and lows, unexpected situations, gossip and scandal in the Muckraker add to the drama. When these two stop fighting, and started seeing the good in each other, it made me so happy. The saying, "love conquers all" perfectly describes Charlotte and Simon's journey.  

I was sighing with delight when they finally admitted their feelings, their declaration of love is sweet, heartwarming, and beautifully written. The author delights us with a beautiful extended epilogue that perfectly sets up the next book, and I can’t wait! This compelling story will touch your heart and reaffirm your belief in love's transformative power.

I received a free copy this book from the author, and am voluntarily leaving a review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Helena · Rating 4 out of 5]

PLOT:
Charlotte Talbot is what most would call an ice queen. She's reserved, opinionated, abrasive and strong willed. Her mother died when she was very young and she was raised by her abusive father. Simon Beckham is her best friend's husband's man of business. Charlotte and Simon have met before but they're like oil and water - his jovial and carefree nature grates on her, and her reserved detachment interests him. They end up in a marriage of convenience after being caught in a compromising situation and this is the story of how they adapt and grow together.


THOUGHTS:

THE CHARACTERS: we meet Simon when he's suffering from an illness, he seems cavalier and rakeish and a little bit simple but his heart is in the right place. When we meet Charlotte she's composed, even when upset, frosty, awkward and outspoken. She's being herded into an abusive marriage by her family and she won't stand for it. I like how at the beginning things seem black and white (she's a cold fish and he's a rake) but we get to see more of their personalities come through and see how their upbringings shaped who they are.

THE SETTING: I'm a sucker for a good regency romance and this one scratches that itch. The characters behave in ways that befit their station and the world feels believable and rich.

THE ROMANCE: this is "enemies to lovers" through and through. Though they don't like each other at first and go into the marriage with their own expectations, they come to see each other differently, appreciate each other's differences and embrace the chemistry simmering between them.

- I liked Charlotte at first but nearing the end I just wanted her to open up, trust and stop being so prickly and hurtful. We got there eventually but I wished it happened a drop sooner

SMUT: we all know why we love a good historical romance and this one delivered. The spicy scenes, though not many of them and only towards the end were pretty good.

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

Whew where to start! This was such a joy to read! Laugh out loud moments from start to finish!
These two are most likely to kill each other on their sleep!
We have Lady Charlotte Talbot and Simon Beckham who is Drake the Duke’s man of business who appeared in a previous story! These two are like oil and water they don’t mix until they do!
Simon is gorgeous, intelligent agreeable and quiet as it’s kept wealthy! Lady Charlotte is sour, disagreeable and shrewish to say the least! There were times I totally disliked her and felt sorry for Simon! When you learn the reason for some not all of behavior you understand!
Most hurting people hurt or lash out on other people aka Charlotte!
Simon has known pain in the past but hides it well as a defense mechanism!
Simon was warned by Drake to behave well that lasted 24-36 hours after his and Honoria departure for a family emergency!
Charlotte was being forced by her brother into marriage with a brute who had no problem with abuse of her person!
Charlotte was less than gracious about the whole thing! Her tongue could slice and cause bodily harm!
Simon is charming and lovable how can these two ever get along much less marry and fall in love! Impossible! That’s what makes this story hard to put down! Bravo! There was never a bumpier road to HEA! Hang on!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased review!

[Rosie Trzewik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again a well woven story of enemies to lovers. Lady Charlotte who has made appearances in the Hope Clinic series finally gets her HEA. Her best friend Honoria married Drake who allowed his best friend, Simon pose as the Duke. A title he didn’t want in the first book of the series. Now Simon who she despises is her only hope to avoid an arranged marriage to an abusive Lord her hateful brother has picked.
Simon the charming, happy go lucky rake can’t stand the bossy ice princess. Sick with a bout of malaria and not in his right mind, he allows Charlotte into the manor. Seeing that she has a bruise on her face and luggage with her, he realizes she is seeking refuge but he is the only one home. Then the unexpected happens and her brother, with her intended shows up and Simon offers marriage to Charlotte to avoid being married to the devil. Charlotte decides to marry Simon, but only as marriage of convenience. As they get to know one another better and Charlotte learns more about Simon and that life can be joyful if you open up your heart.
Love the banter between the couple! Very entertaining read! The mystery of the Mudracker continues, but barely mentioned in this book. Thank you for the ARC, the opinions expressed are solely mine own. #EveryRakehasaSilverLining #TrishaMessmer #LondonLadiesLeague #StoryOrigin

[Lilpep · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this second London Ladies League book, the focus is on Simon and Charlotte, dear friends of Drake and Honoria. Unfortunately, they relate to each other like oil and water. She sees him as a feckless rake given to playing the fool. He sees her as a brittle prig with a condescending attitude. But both have assumed protective veneers to deal with bruised hearts from their pasts.


When Charlotte flees her despicable brother, the two are found in a compromising situation and, in an act of chivalry, Simon offers Charlotte a marriage of convenience. Charlotte accepts and we have to wonder how two people who can barely be in the same room survive a marriage. Can they find common ground, understanding and even affection?


Ms. Messmer creates characters with all the foibles of real life. At times we may not be in complete charity with them but we watch them learn and grow. Each of the protagonists begin to understand themselves, and eventually each other. Throughout the story we are eager to turn the next corner in the twisting road to their HEA. Keep in mind this story is part of a series. While you don't need the background from the previous book to enjoy the story, it helps paint a more complete picture. “Every Rake” will pull you in under its own power. Don't be surprised if you stay up much too late because you have to finish the story! 

[Leann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the London Ladies’ League, following the story of Simon Beckham and Charlotte Talbot. If you’ve read any of the Hope Clinic series, Charlotte is Nash’s little sister. If you’ve read the first LLL book, Simon is Drake’s man of business. This story is an enemies-to-lovers/marriage of convenience. Charlotte is a tough cookie due to family trauma and Simon is a golden retriever who always sees the bright side. His positive attitude and flirtatious ways drives Charlotte up the wall, mainly because she has a hard time letting people in and being vulnerable. Little-by-little, Charlotte’s defenses come down and the marriage becomes a true love match. Charlotte gains the loving family she always wanted and Simon realizes he does want his marriage to be based on love and respect, not just someone to provide an heir.

As always, Trisha’s writing is great and even though I received an uncorrected ARC, I did not notice any mistakes. Thanks to Trisha for allowing me to review ahead. I enjoyed the story immensely and loved the Darcy and Elizabeth parallels!

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this book a 10+++, I would. I absolutely love all the stories by this author, yet some of them pull even more at my heartstrings than others. This is one of them. First this is the second book of this series and while it can easily stand alone, my recommendation is to read either the one before it or all of this author's books as some characters are back for a visit. Now on to the story itself. Charlotte is a lady with the toughest armor shielding her from any type of harm. She's, Nash's sister so if you read it, you will understand her family history. She's strong, intelligent, really compassionate. Then there is Simon. He is a hoot. He's determined to get through to her and his humor, love of live and joy are amazing. I laughed the entire way through the story. This author puts so much into her stories, that the reader feels like they are making new and permanent friends. I could go on and on about this story but the best thing I can say is that you just have to read it.

[Catherine A · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed Simon and Charlotte’s story in the second installment of “The London Ladies League.” Carrying over the Jane Austen storyline correlation from the first book, Ms. Messmer selects the beloved classic “Pride and Prejudice” this time. Charlotte thoughtfully selects this book to read on her journey. Correlations are drawn between the classic characters and the Beckham family, which soon includes Charlotte. Some scenes are quite humorous and I found Simon’s rather large family to be simply charming. Watching the “Ice Queen” slowly thaw as she falls in love with Simon and his family is rather refreshing!

A glimpse into the future of the series is provided in the epilogue and definitely leaves readers like myself wanting more… I know I’m curious to discover who the mysterious author of “The Muckraker” turns out to be. Plus, being a huge Jane Austen fan, I’m looking forward to see which classic Ms. Messmer will select for use in book three.

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

[Pamela Barbee · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Lady Charlotte Talbot is informed by her brother, Roland, the Marquess of Edgerton, that he has signed a contract to marry her to a man she cannot stand. After she refuses the man, he strikes her across the face and she leaves home. She goes to her friend, Honoria Merrick, the Duchess of Burwood, only to find she and her husband are gone to her sister-in-law's funeral. Charlotte decides to stay knowing her friend will return shortly. Unfortunately there is only the butler, cook and the Duke of Burwood's man of business, Simon Beckham, who does not get on well with Charlotte. Simon is having issues from the malaria that he suffers from and Charlotte is trying to help take care of him. When Charlotte's brother turns up with the man he wants her to marry, they find Charlotte in the room with Simon Beckham, who is basically unclothed. What will happen now? You will want to read this funny and very entertaining story.

[Gjohnson135 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an exceptional journey of two people, Simon, and Lady Charlotte. Their journey is full of emotions, wit, trials, missteps, malaria, contracts, family, friends and two strong opposing forces. These provide for a truly enchanting read. Once again, a man jump starts this journey by meddling into a woman’s life. Let the adventures begin for two souls not seeking a connection. Bold, sassy, confident Charlotte mistakenly enters the ‘den’ of Simon Beckham, unexpected, optimistic, self-made, protective, confident and an ‘insufferable buffoon.’ Their story is engaging, two souls meeting, clashing, and forging a path together. No straight path here, their journey is full of bumps, curves, unexpected moments bringing this heartwarming story to a most satisfying conclusion. This is a page turner, a story that warms your heart, one that makes us believe in the power of Love to transform lives. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opposites attract
Charlotte and Simon had met disliked each other at the Duke of Burwood’s house party a year ago. When Charlotte runs away from a horrifying marriage prospect, her first thought is to go to her dear friend, Honoria. However, the only person she stumbles upon is Simon, drenched, without clothes, in the throes of a bout of malaria. Discovered at that exact moment by her brother and the man he wants his sister to marry, Charlotte and Simon have no choice but to agree on a marriage of convenience.
Will they be able to put aside their enmity? There is attraction between them, but Charlotte’s abrasive personality doesn’t bode well for the future despite her promise to Honoria to give her bridegroom a chance.

[NelleRenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The two main characters are ill suited for each other. The heroine has defensive walls that must be miles thick due to an unloving and cruel family (except for an absent brother in America). She strikes as a defense mechanism. The hero is also covering pain but he does the opposite with jokes and flirting. They are caught in a compromising situation so marry. The story revolves around how they start to let down their defenses. Of course, there is one person who doesn’t want him to be happy. This is a continuation of a series, but I feel it could be read as a standalone.

[Bonnie Jhene · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finished the book but because Charlotte was so defiant and obstinate for so long in the book, I began to pass up pages so I didn't have to read more and more of her brusque attitude. My idea of reading is to enjoy the book, laugh when it adds that into the story and feel calm and at the end of the book, to feel total enjoyment. This one was not that for me. Being an ice maiden is one thing; being one that is constantly hurtful is another.

The world today has so much negative and hurtful things going on, my book reading habits are to counter those situations.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did like the character of Simon Beckham, he did have a bit of a reputation but he also had some issues. I loved his family, they were so warm and loving, even with the sibling banter. I found it very difficult to like the character of Charlotte, especially her snide remarks. I did understand the difficulties she had with her father and older brother but she was old enough to treat others with respect. After all, Simon was helping her out of a situation that she partly created. I did enjoy the story and Charlotte did redeem herself a little by the end. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Bo Albers · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful twist

The book which is in a new series by Tricia Mesmer is a lovely continuation of characters in the first book is marvelously fun! I read the first series about hope clinic and it’s unique doctors and those characters show up in support of the new stories. All in all the author is a master with series as they are each individual stories that are not written in a formulaic way as so many series are all though her stories do always have happy endings!

[Lwalalba · Rating 4 out of 5]

Got there eventually

3.5 stars - this took a while to get going and Charlotte was so annoying I almost gave up. Simon was kind and very patient. We find out eventually why Charlotte is as she is and all turns out well but this didn't grab me. Shame as most of the characters are great. I was looking forward to this after the first book in the series.

[Trina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn't love a buffoon!

I absolutely loved Simon and Charlotte's characters. From Drake and Honora's story, it was clear that they would get together and would never be a dull moment. A story full of giggles, ooohs and awwws in all the right places and a couple of good hits to make it even more fun. Loved this story even more than book 1 and would definitely recommend.

[Lisa Staples · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good...

Loved the storyline and strong lead characters. I thought I knew what was going to happen but got surprised at almost every turn. Thank you, Trisha, for another wonderfully written book.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite sweet although with Charlotte's fear I'd have expected her to be much more severely abused than just once? Her response seemed overblown for effect. Simon is great and I like his bouncy nature.

[Laurie · Rating 3 out of 5]

lots of arranged marriages. malaria, an evil brother. both main characters are a bit annoying, but in a good humored way. I'm still a bit skeptical of rakes reforming and shrews being tamed, but both tropes live on.

[Suze82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

self defense
This book was hard to put down, I had so much fun reading about Simon and Charlotte having finally found their match but fighting tooth and nail to admit to their feelings.

[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

London ladies' league bk2.

What a fantastic read, I think this is the best so far. However, I can't wait for the next one!

[Denise Tocci · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the story telling of Ms messmer. Always keeps the reader interested.It took me a bit to warm up to Charlotte but with Simon's help I got there. A great read can't wait for next book

[Deborah Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

most entertaining read

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters are truly characters. Well paced and charming. I truly didn’t want it to end.

[Ceri Findlay · Rating 5 out of 5]

book

Enjoyed this well written book, but I would have liked it better without the numerous additions of “Gah!” Totally unnecessary I thought , and rather annoying.

[Callan · Rating 3 out of 5]

DNF 50%

[readwithk · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ enjoyed this!!

🌻historical romance
🌻enemies-to-lovers
🌻marriage of convenience
🌻close/forced proximity
🌻slow burn